Tillsonburg Public Library Annual Report 2006

Prepared March 6, 2007

Matthew Scholtz - Chief Librarian

Part A: Statistics

Memberships:

These statistics represent active members only.

Residency:

Resources:

Items Lost indicate materials discovered missing after an inventory was taken.

There was a consideration increase materials purchases because of the surprise Literacy grant. This year (June) also saw the debut of our DVD collection.

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

Interlibrary Loan

Part B : Highlights

Collection

In June, our DVD collection was launched. In preparation for this new collection, an efficient system of circulation was devised and tested, and then DVD titles selected. Both Mary Stevens and Carole Stephenson were involved in the selection, based on their feedback from our patrons. That they chose well has been proven by the extraordinary DVD circulation statistics every month since the collection began. Continuing to build on this public input, we hope to add more titles in 2007. Our VHS collection still remains popular, probably due to the strength of the selection, and because commercial video stores are offering fewer VHS titles.

Building Expansion

Following the preparation of an engineer’s report on options for expanding the Library, the Board explored the six means whereby additional space could be created. These options included a mezzanine in various configurations, as well as a block addition at the southwest corner of the building. A final decision on the best way to expand the building remains under study.

Automation System Migration

Our Library has been using MultiLis as its automated system since 1987, when it was managed by Avec Ltd in Mississauga. Since that time, the owners of MultiLis have changed a number of times, most recently in 2003 when it became part of SirsiDynix, a U.S-based company. At that time, we were advised that MultiLis would continue to be supported indefinitely. However, in the spring, we were advised that SirsiDynix would no longer support MultiLis after June 2007. Accordingly, the Board formed a committee to effect the migration to a new system, which should be effected in 2007. Options being considered: (a) stand-alone operation (b) partnership with Woodstock PL or(c) joining the Ontario Library Consortium.

ServiceOntario

The Ministry of Culture selected our library (along with about a dozen others across Ontario) for a pilot project entitled ServiceOntario. This Internet-based program was intended to make it easy for the general public to access Ontario government services and information. The program, funded by $2,000, will conclude in February 2007.

Survey

A public survey was conducted in June with the intent to learn how the public felt about the Library and its services. The results of the survey will help plan for the future although it seems apparent at this point, that most of the suggestions made would be best fulfilled with a new library building.

Accreditation

The Board decided in the fall to apply for accreditation. To date, only 17 libraries out of 190 in Ontario have gone through accreditation. The first step was taken in December when a repre-sentative of the Southern Ontario Library Service visited our library to conduct a pre-audit. The results of that audit will be considered this year as the accreditation process continue

Summer Reading Program

Thanks to a special one-time provincial grant for literacy promotion, we were able to provide a higher level of staffing than in previous years. The grant also allowed us to purchase additional new children=s titles (the Aunveiling@ of which helped us to launch the 2006 Summer Reading Program in grand style. As a consequence, we achieved the highest monthly (July) circulation in the Library=s history. (The grant also enabled us to acquired a children=s literacy computer, which has proven to be very popular.)

In terms of other children’s services, Mary Stevens co-operates with other literacy agencies, and helps with the Thursday morning Jumpin’ Jive program.

Library Board

David Stubbs found it necessary to resign from the Board towards the end of the year, and was replaced by Barb MacKinnon.

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.

I would also like to express my thanks to the staff for their dedication to the library and its patrons.

Finally, 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

2007 March 6