Tillsonburg Public Library Annual Report 2005

Prepared March 6, 2006

Matthew Scholtz - Chief Librarian

Part A: Statistics

Memberships:

These statistics represent active members only.

Residency:

Resources:

Unreturned = materials not returned
Lost = presumed stolen

The issue of talking books in cassette vs cd format remains a vexing one. Ideally, it would be best to purchase talking books in a single format. However, the demand remains strong for both formats and so we need to continue the double format until the demand becomes more focussed, or publishers select a dominant format.

Projector Use

As expected, projector equipment use continues to decline, as new forms of technology becoming available. We remain, however, the only source of such equipment, so that some people remain grateful to have this access.

Other Services

Circulation

Circulation dipped a little in terms of children's book loans. This is surprising, because we enrolled a record number in the summer reading program, but compared to last summer, book loans were down. It is possible that the books actually checked out during last year's program were not actually read.                     

Interlibrary Loan

An increase in interlibrary loan this year has been absolutely amazing.  This can easily be attributed to the efforts of staff in general, and Mary Stevens in particular, to assure that no reasonable book request is left unsatisfied.  The new Reading Club requirements for multiple book titles have also increased interlibrary loan. 

Part B : Highlights

Staffing

Denise Off joined the staff early in the year and left for university in the late summer. Rita VanLamoen began work in January when Katherine Goulet moved away. In July, Mary Stevens joined the Library on a fulltime permanent basis. We are very fortunate to have her on our staff because of her skills, enthusiasm and community involvement. In August, I marked my 35 th year as CEO of the Library.

Vandalism

Perhaps it's a sign of the times, but for the first time in my administration of the Library, we are experiencing vandalism of the property and difficulty with certain young individuals. This has taken the form of damage to walkway lights, washroom and front door, and personal disruptions within the library (loud talking, books dislodged, skateboards).

Building Expansion

A structural engineer's report was received, outlining various options for expanding the library building to resolve problems arising from the space limitations we currently face. These options will have to be reviewed to determine the best course of action in terms of properly expanding the 30 year old building. Some easing of shelving pressures was achieved in the spring by the addition of new fiction shelving in the adult department.

Library Promotion

To mark the 30 th anniversary of the building, we arranged for some library book bags. It was a surprise to all of us, how quick-ly these sold out. We intend to order a new supply if and when the same style bag becomes available again.

This year, in addition to our usual March Break and summer children's program, we added a Christmas magic show that was well received.

Mary Stevens is particularly to be commended for her success in building partnerships with community groups, especially those concerned with promoting children's literacy skills.

Library Board

David Stubbs found it necessary to resign from the Board towards the end of the year.

Appreciation

On behalf of the Library staff, I would like to thank the members of the Library Board, for their continuing interest in effective and efficient library service for our community.

Thanks are also extended to Cynthia Hildebrand, Director of Community Services, and other Town staff for their continuing support.

Respectfully submitted

Matthew Scholtz - Chief Librarian

2006 March 6