Summary of 2016SCLS Library Visits

Introduction

For the ninth consecutive year, SCLS staff members conducted annual site visits withnearly all member libraries in 2016 in an effort to enhance connections and gatherinformation about library ideas and concerns. This year 15 staff members from all departmentsspent about100 hours conducting51 library site visits. Scheduling conflicts and director vacancies precluded visits with every library/site.

As visit reports are filed on the SCLS shared drive, all staff members are asked to read each report and make any necessary follow up contact. In most cases the person visiting the library makes contact with the SCLS staff member that canmost appropriately resolve an issue, address a concern, or just provide more information orassistance.

The questions in this year’s library visits continued the theme started at the March 2014 All Directors meeting, and focused on the concept of the library as a community partner and resource. This year’s visits used the following questions:

  • How does your library add value to your community?
  • What makes your library unique in terms of services, programs, physical space, staff expertise, etc.?
  • How can SCLS help you provide the best service to your public?
  • What has your library done this year that you’re really excited about, and what are you looking forward to or planning for?

Below are general discussions about the responses to each question, in which we try to identify the trends that arose.

Question 1—How does your library add value to your community?

The role of the library in the community has changed dramatically over time, but too often we see a continued focus on statistics like circulation being used as the barometer for whether the library is serving the community. Circulation of physical items is still a primary function of public libraries, but the story is much more robust than that.

For this reason, we wanted to focus on how libraries add value to the community, which is a way of gauging the return on investment for the tax dollars used to support public libraries. As can be expected, the responses to this question were as varied as our libraries and the communities they serve. It is evident from the variety of responses that libraries do shape their services and resources to meet the needs of the local community.

Highest on the list of “value” items was providing employability skills assistance to local residents who need it. This may include help creating a resume, teaching basic computer skills, researching career opportunities, or finding online training opportunities. When in need, people turn to public libraries, and libraries always answer the call. To support libraries in this area, we have meetings scheduled in late March and April with the three Wisconsin Regional Workforce Development Boards that cover SCLS. These three meetings will be an opportunity for library staff members to sit down with representatives from these boards to talk about what services are available and how their library can best serve residents.

Libraries have been called the “community living room” or “community center,” and this perception is borne out in this year’s responses. Many libraries serve the role of community gathering space, and nearly as many are partnering with local organizations in areas as diverse as economic development, Chamber of Commerce, schools, local businesses, day care centers, and civic groups.

Also high on the list again this year was access to technology and the Internet, and related issues like technology training and wireless access. Library directors also reported that use of computer labs remains strong, though declining somewhat in many cases.

An increasing focus of public libraries is classes and workshops (aka programs), through which libraries attempt to address the recreational, educational and informational needs of residents. Across the board, among all age groups, libraries report offering more and more programs, and annual report data bears out that attendance at these programs is increasing dramatically.

Finally, a number of libraries reported that their staff members add value to the community through their expertise, compassion, knowledge, and focus on customer service. No other community institution rises to the level of the public library.

Question 2—What makes your library unique in terms of services, programs, physical space, staff expertise, etc.?

Topping this list were responses related to library staff members, reinforcing the idea that library employees are “excellent” and provide quality service. There was also recognition of the personal aspect of library work in a small community, where library employees know everyone. That familiarity and closeness creates a strong sense of community, and the library is integral in that.

Libraries are unique in that many of them create partnerships with local organizations, agencies, and community groups to meet the ever-changing needs and wants of library customers. Related to this is the array of intergenerational programming public libraries offer. There were many references to programming at all levels, and we’ve grouped it together. It is very powerful in terms of creating a connection to the library, to others in the community, and to the community as a whole.

In many communities the library is the only place to get free Wi-Fi or access to public internet computers, but the library also serves as a cool place in the summer for those without air conditioning, or a place to socialize for those who live alone. Also mentioned was the library’s role as a safe place for children to go after school.

Question 3—How can SCLS help you provide the best service to your public?

Working in partnership with member libraries to help them provide the best service to the public is our mission, which we take very seriously. SCLS provides myriad services to member libraries, and each library takes advantage in different ways to meet their local priorities.

Topping the list was maker kits, the implementation of which arose from thelibrary visit process. We started with Lego Mindstorms Ev3 programmable robots, and have branched out to include a printing press, 3D printer & scanner, computerized stencil cutters (they cut shapes for various uses), stop-motion animation iPad kits (also video and audio editing), sewing machines, photo scanners, and Sphero (programmable plastic balls that teach computer programming). This year we added a second Youth Literacy iPad kit, and we circulate two youth science kits with various items to support science programs.

We have conducted regional training sessions for the maker kits, but more training has been requested. We currently have a UW-Madison practicum student working on documentation and training materials for the Lego Mindstorms kits, and we plan to do more regional training sessions in 2017.

Also mentioned was the need for SCLS to find ways to help libraries digitize local history materials, and we are implementing a Libraries Services and Technology Act (LSTA) grant project to do just that. We have hired a digitization specialist (limited-term employee) who is now working with member libraries to plan and implement their digitization projects. We have purchased various scanners and storage devices and we’re addressing this important need.

As a result of past visit requests, SCLS did conduct a “mobile hot spot” trial that was very successful. Many individuallibraries are pursuing this technology, but there was mention that it would be nice if SCLS could explore the possibility of securing group purchasing for these devices to get lower prices for libraries.

One of the most frequently mentioned topics in this question was SCLS staff and services. Libraries value the many resources and services SCLS staff provide, and responded generally and specifically to the high value they receive.Technology services, continuing education & webinars, and Delivery were mentioned most often, followed closely by consultant services, graphics building design services, and web services.

Question 4—What has your library done this year that you’re really excited about, and what are you looking forward to or planning for?

For the second consecutive year, the number one response was “more classes.” The list included story times and programs for day care centers, for senior citizens, book blubs, author visits, and art/craft programs for adults. It wasn’t that long ago that most library programming was directed at young children, but more libraries are providing classes and programs for teens and adults. And attendance is reflecting the interest people have in these efforts. This reflects the current role of libraries in the community, and the results are again borne out in the numbers reflected in 2016 annual reports.

Libraries continue to focus efforts on technology, like adding mobile hot spots, iPads, computers, 3D printers, and offering services like one-on-one technology tutoring and classes in basic computer skills. One library even circulates GoPro cameras, metal detectors, and a telescope.

Recognizing the continued importance of the physical collection of books, DVDs, and CDs, libraries are securing grants to expand specific areas of their collection; they are weeding to make room for more high demand items, and creating special collections of interest.

In these times of continuing tight budgets, one library added a significant expansion in 2016 and another built a new building. Three SCLS member libraries are planning new buildings, and several others are developing plans for building additions. A number of others completed interior and exterior renovations/improvements in 2016, and more are planned for 2017. In most cases these projects have wide-spread community support, which is a testament to the value these institutions bring to their communities.

Several libraries also added new staff members in 2016, while others converted part-time staff to full-time. Other libraries hired new directors in 2016 and early 2017.

The list of what libraries did in 2016 that they’re excited about is long, and varied—as varied as the communities and residents they serve. These responses reflect the extent to which libraries go to provide services, resources and facilities that provide value to the community.

Conclusion

SCLS and its member libraries maintain a strong relationship, which we believe supports libraries as they work to serve the residents who rely on the services and resources provided by libraries. Is our relationship with libraries perfect? Do libraries love every facet of SCLS? Of course not, but we work together to make things better, and when we identify issues we strive to make improvements.

Budgets at the local, county, state and federal levels continue to provide challenges and uncertainty for the work we do together, but we continue to work collaboratively to find solutions. Another uncertainty on the horizon is the work of the Public Library System Redesign project, which is scheduled to wrap up in February of 2018. Many SCLS staff members and libraries are involved in this process, which is intended to make the most efficient use of resources to serve member libraries and their customers. The degree to which any changes will impact existing systems has not yet been fullydefined, but that picture will become clearer within the six months.

Library directors are very excited about the opportunities presented with the new Data Services Consultant, and we will hit the ground running with a presentation during the March 16 All Directors Meeting. We’re currently looking at the software and technology needed to create a data dashboard, and the All Directors meeting will be a great opportunity to hear from library directors about how they want to use data.

Public libraries serve a vital role in communities throughout the South Central Library System, addressing opportunities and challenges with creativity, vigor, and determination. SCLS staff appreciates the opportunity to work on their behalf, and we look forward to more excitement in 2017.

2016 Library Visits report

Question 1: How does your library add value to your community?

Collection

  • DVD collection valuable to community (2)
  • Free access to books, music, movies & TV series (6)
  • Free access to e-books, e-audio & e-video (3)
  • Unique collection items (cake pans)
  • Majority of holds for local customers filled by library collection.

Societal Demands

  • Racial equity analysis

Community Outreach

  • Partners with economic development, chamber, schools, local businesses, daycares, other local groups (18)
  • Provides community resources on broad scale (12)
  • Attends Village Board meetings
  • Clearinghouse for local events (3)
  • Senior space w/kitchen
  • Bookmobile & services to homebound, senior living, nursing homes, etc.
  • Teen advisory group to better serve this age group.
  • Public arts and culture programs
  • Host community suppers to build relationships.
  • Neighborhood Resource Team worked to initiate city bus service and DCLS Bookmobile service in an area, and also clean up a park in the development.
  • Polling place
  • Helping make downtown more vibrant
  • Identifying community needs and addressing them through strategic plan
  • Conducted community-wide survey and are trying to be a more visible community partner

Literacy/Education/Entertainment

  • Jumps socioeconomic divides to provide access to knowledge and entertainment
  • Supports an ESL Hispanic population with Mango languages and grants for books.
  • Primary early literacy resource for parents and teachers (3)
  • 1000 books before kindergarten (3)
  • Provides education and entertainment.
  • Livelong education support
  • Doing more with early literacy

Community Center/3rd Place

  • Emergency evaluation reunification site for kindergarten center
  • Only free, supervised gathering space for teens
  • Community Gathering Space (24)
  • Provides community identity (6)
  • Trying to think of space more as a resource

Employment/Job Skills

  • “Home” office with printing, faxing, copying, scan-to-email
  • Employability skills assistance (35)
  • Partnered with Workforce Development to provide space weekly for staff to work in library.

Economics/Finance

  • Support economic development

Technology

  • Access to Wi-fi (18)
  • Computer/Internet Access (12)
  • Computer help/classes (5)
  • Joining LINKcat was big benefit, and circulation is increasing.
  • Thinking of reducing number of public access computers because so many people using their own devices on Wi-fi
  • eReaders

Library Programs

  • Something for every age. (20)
  • Story times (5)
  • SLP excellent (expanded to adults this year). Offered a family fun night.
  • Early literacy programming (3)
  • Read to a dog
  • Wednesday programs for older kids
  • Friday lunch bunch (staff member reads chapters from a book during lunch with an activity following.
  • Adult programming (6)
  • Coloring and puzzle groups (2)
  • Book club
  • Summer Olympics program

Genealogy/Local History

  • Historical & genealogy resources (2)
  • Local history collection (2)

Awareness

  • Our role is to support the neighborhood in any way we can.
  • Library kitchen plays unique role in programming and community awareness/identity.

Library Staff

  • Staff are part of community (3)
  • Staff offers convening and facilitation skills to local projects & events.
  • Long staff tenure provides solid knowledge base of community and local organizations (3)
  • Stresses customer service and friendliness

Library Facility

  • One of the nicest buildings in town (3)
  • Serves as cooling location in hot weather
  • Just being here since a few years ago there wasn’t a library.
  • Safe place for children (3)
  • Serves as community Post Office.
  • Meeting spaces (4)
  • Display space

Miscellaneous

  • Just being here benefits all age groups in the community
  • Equal access to information and programming (2)
  • How doesn’t it?
  • Partnerships with school district, Boys & Girls Club, UW regional campus, senior center, and assisted living facilities.
  • CSA pickup location
  • Informal dispatch for the police and the counter for the village office when no one is available to assist people in those departments in the same facility.
  • We have the answers Google can’t provide.
  • Large return on investment for dollars spent
  • Examination proctoring
  • Library is a Pokemon Go site
  • Concern that they don’t provide as much value as they used to. Population changing and not as many library users. Lots of competition from other businesses. Not a lot of reason to come downtown, and that is where the library is. Bedroom community without a strong downtown.
  • Friends group is social outlet for community residents and a way to become involved.

2016 Library Visits report

Question 2: What makes your library unique in terms of services, programs, physical space, staff expertise, etc.?

Community Outreach

  • Personal aspect of library work in small community. You know everyone. (11)
  • “Plant sit” for “snowbirds” during the winter.
  • Homebound delivery service offered (2)
  • Community Engagement Focus (2)
  • Partners with various community groups/organizations (7)
  • Partner with Life Foundation to promote health and well-being
  • Visit 17 communities with bookmobile
  • Summer outdoor programming
  • All about services
  • Lots of community outreach efforts.
  • Empowers seniors to help themselves.
  • Garden space, and local farmer’s market uses their parking lot
  • Offer seed library and sponsor a potluck party at harvest time
  • Bookmobile adds value, and we are increasing its use with stops at nursing homes, assisted living residences, a senior mobile home park, community center, two apartment complexes, and a park.

Technology

  • Free Wi-fi (5)
  • Encourages Wi-fi use in parking lot.
  • Public/Internet computers (4)
  • 3D printing
  • Sewing machines
  • Maker kits

Facility/Space