Www.tsl.texas.gov
LSTA Survey Respondents Comments
1. The suggestions on needs listed above were derived from reviewing the documents and reports linked from the Five-Year Plan webpage, along with the Governor's priorities and demographic data. What other specific needs for library services in the state would you suggest?
• Access to databases that allow citizens to utilize needed information.
• Provide materials and space for citizens to stimulate their imaginations through thought and discourse.
• Meeting the needs of ethnic diverse populations. Equalizing educational opportunities.
• Information literacy for general populace
• Strong support for Texshare databases
• Small libraries under 10K served need support -training & hands-on help.
• Health literacy, better health results
• Offer web-based tutorials and/or videos for usage of databases - at beginner and advanced levels.
• Adult literacy
• Computer classes
• Using a library to highlight specialized skills, such as video or movie production, expose the youth to expanded employment possibilities.
• Mobile Library support to areas without physical library buildings close.
• Figure out how the small libraries can still have ILL services online test preparation for SAT, PSAT, ACT, GED, ESL, etc.
• Technology literacy
• Continuing education
• Additional funding for services.
• Enhanced interlibrary loans and delivery system
• Instruction and updating on new electronic devices ex. ipads, e-readers etc.
• Continuing professional education; development of library buildings; development of local history projects
• Help for rural areas not able to fund their own libraries
• Broadband connectivity for high speed Internet access throughout the state
• Access to digital content
• Better access in rural areas to more viable internet services.
• Personal finance programs for the public - simple ones like how to make a budget, or how to make sure your paycheck is correct.
• Ebook collection development and implementation/funds for library capital building projects
• Developing public and private partnerships. Strengthening existing and developing new partnerships/collaborative projects. central/consortial purchasing of databases
• Pick up the TANG program from the lost Federal funds. We need that computer help to keep our public computers up and running.
• Programs for aging population specially digital inclusion
• Funding for or funds for a core collection of bilingual materials
• Digital Public Library that incorporates and preserves archival information
• Digital collaboration space. I also think we need money dedicated to marketing so that the public is aware of our new tech offerings.
• More resources towards digitization.
• Learn to access digital data
• Ways to enable more practical collaboration between libraries as none can meet all their students' or community's needs
• The people of our community have a need to learn more about technology at all levels. Many do not even have a basic knowledge of computers and are completely being left behind.
• I would like to see more adult resources and services in the workforce field.
• The most expensive service, mandated by the State, is Interlibrary Loan. Libraries need courier service for local or regional networks to make lending less costly.
• State Grants for Libraries
• Health literacy
• Make sure that every library has an educational unit for preschoolers and that there are funds to support it.
• Library hours expanded
• The TANG and ILL programs are very beneficial.
• Cultural/recreational enrichment, preservation of local history
• ILL including courier service; funding
• Financial aid to libraries (bring back Loan Star).
• Collection development
• More funding for ebooks and hard copies
• Database access to all Texans. Academic school and public libraries
• Financial assistance from the Governor/Legislature
• Reference material access-ending of the K-12 database hurt
• Free classes to teach patrons how to operate a computer.
• Facilitate efficient use of state resources through a strong TexShare database program
• Funding for these programs
• All the above are equally important. It would be good to have affordable high speed internet.
• Students in districts without certified librarians need after-school access to library personnel who are familiar with school library issues.
• TexShare Databases
• Job attainment resources.
• Educational opportunities for those wanting to work in libraries
• Outreach to diverse and underserved populations.
• Help with emerging technologies, downloadable books, etc.
• Staff development for library personnel, particularly in the area of social media and participation in digital world.
• The Libraries of each need to be computer/community centers
• Compile and preserve local history/local unique resources
• Easier, more efficient, and expanded opportunities for resource sharing.
• Assistance with updates of computer software to meet changing needs
• Ensuring that schools have librarians, not just resources
• Current technology like e-books.
• The ones listed are the main ones
• Offering support for English as a Second Language
• We would like to see money for e-books. Our local budget does not provide for this service.
• Support teaching and learning by providing technology by acquiring, organizing and making accessible virtual, digital and print fiction, non-fiction, reference, reserves, periodicals, and media resources, information, and research.
• All needs above are intertwined.
• Basic computer literacy, helping people complete job applications, do resumes, etc.
• Entertainment, community gathering places
• Services and resources to adolescent and young adult populations that promote problem solving and creative and critical thinking skills.
• Libraries should provide and promote programming and materials focused on helping citizens become Better-informed on political & social issues.
• I believe the defined goals are essential in the progress and development of our local communities.
• We-the small libraries--need money to implement any plans.
• Offering programs outside the walls of the library.
• Help small libraries with broadband services for those that are taking online courses from schools & colleges.
• Greater outreach and rebranding to make the library a more desirable place for people to receive the resources they need
• Provide training and professional development to enhance the skills of the library workforce
• More funding opportunities and better communication of these opportunities.
• I really like the webinars
• Assistance with cost of bringing ebooks access to our library
• State-supported cataloging utility / rule system that rejects RDA and supports revision of AACR2r
• Materials and equipment for the handicap
• Option to use a consortial ILS, particularly one that allows for custom public interface.
• Bring back LSL Grant funding.
• Better and more discount contracts with service providers for libraries.
• In small towns with older citizens, providing social, mentally stimulating opportunities may not be as important as early literacy, but it is quite important nonetheless.
• Certified librarians
• Developing a sense of community among the people we serve
• School librarians in every school.
• Grant writing help, Plinkit websites, discounts and free CE courses, content rich website
• Digital inclusion should also focus on digital literacy. It's not solely about access anymore, but the ability to use and be competitive in the workplace. This also ties in educational attainment goals.
• Community programs: guest speakers, storytellers, meeting place for a variety of groups
• Funds for materials for library. (books, ebooks, audio books, etc.)
• Access and training for jobs/careers
• Texshare, TexSelect, and the courier service are the most important
• Cost savings achieved through TexShare to support attainment, development, and inclusion.
• Access by remote areas in rural counties when there is just one central library building.
• Restoring the cuts made in state budgets to education.
• Digital archives.
• Resource sharing - making maximum use of State's information resources.
• Access to Federal government publications; FDsys, etc.
• Texshare needs to be funded for access to databases within Libraries across the state.
• Public awareness campaign regarding the value of public libraries
• Libraries as places for community engagement (where communities meet)
• Keeping the core of TexShare databases as intact as possible.
• Support of librarians in the field with ce and help with library issues
• Digital inclusion assists us in serving a wide range of patrons
• State funding for databases in education-- we need the databases back for our kids
• Access to current, up to date materials, via print, digitally, audio.
• Collection development
• Downloadable ebooks; more access to state agency information
• Programming that educates, encourages and motivates persons with little family support toward a better future.
• Digital literacy training, both professional and life skills
• Training for librarians
• With the ever-developing technology, library staff members need to receive adequate training (e.g., use of websites, Facebook, chromebooks, webcams, etc.)
• It just seems that libraries have some connection with a gathering place, to learn, read, study, catch up on the news, and form a bond with others who do this. I can't think of a place that would replace it.
• Given our population demographics statewide, literacy of ALL ages is of prime import.
• Continuing education for staff to be able to meet the needs of their communities; increasing public awareness of services that libraries provide
• Something that is important in my two rural communities is a meeting place for people. It's not nearly as important as the issues already listed, but it is important to the members of my two communities as well.
• Collaborative offerings to meet demands for the need of the new fade of E-Readers. Managing and establishing means of preserving area and local history in small towns with no museums.
• Texas libraries need to collaborate for consortial purchasing and sharing of resources. By funding the collaborations, the state can maximize the impact of our state dollars.
2. Thinking further about statewide needs for library services - please describe briefly what your library and/or your community accomplished in meeting critical community needs in the last four years (education, economic development, other).
• Provided to the community access to information for educational and economic services.
• Provided access to materials and technology aiding in job search, resume writing software, early literacy classes, story times for babies, programs for teens, and numerous cultural programs and activities.
• Re-vitalize downtown thru renovation/construction of new library location.
• As a small private urban university serving an ethnically diverse population, we provided superior library services, including instruction tailored to individual students, good resources, and online materials.
• Little has changed in the last four years due to budget cuts and job losses. Our college has seen a rise in adults returning for re-training. Information access is a key component of this.
• Our community college library combines support for both educational programs and economic development in our community.
• We have partnered with the school to included the summer ESL class in the SRP
• Weatherford College Library has expanded our electronic services to our five county service area by expanding our webpages, databases, and ebook additions.
• Health literacy, health education
• Provided information literacy and research skills to university students via outreach events and Ask a Librarian marketing.
• We provided information resources essential to our academic degree programs.
• Preschool classes teaching early literacy, computer classes
• Primarily education, some economic development
• Digital training has been key in our rural community--those re-entering the workforce lack computer/internet skills/lack confidence.
• Through a grant from a private foundation we were able to build a new library quadrupling our size. Our numbers of people using the library has more than doubled. Library usage has almost doubled. We are helping people that do not have computers or internet by being able to provide it free. Teaching young kids and parents the importance of reading thur weekly story time.
• Access to credible information
• Provided digital access to e-resources, provided free classes in all areas, provided support for improving economic conditions and literacy classes.
• Becoming more techno savvy to serve the public need to learn more about computers
• Adult computer classes, more children's literacy programming
• Early literacy, Workforce and employment support, lifelong learning.
• Space
• My predecessor attempted to keep the collection current and I intend to continue that effort.
• We enabled members of the community to obtain educational and job opportunities, resources for economic well-being and small business development and to be connected to the global online world,
• We are trying to collaborate with community libraries to apply for grants.
• Because of LSTA funding we have been able to provide basic computer literacy to over 66 senior citizens in two communities.
• Trained library staff to learn how to complete government forms for employment, etc.
• The library provided internet access to our community and surrounding areas.
• Continued to provide literacy and economic development programs and services
• Updated public computers, offer free e-reader services, encourage love of reading and exploring new areas of knowledge.
• Much effort in digital literacy; GED and ESL tutoring; early childhood literacy
• We have provided internet access (at a high cost) for people who have no access - this helps with education/employment and higher enjoyment of life in general.
• Opened a branch library in an economically and culturally diverse neighborhood; providing computer/internet access in an area that was sorely lacking.
• Wireless connectivity instituted throughout library system
• Ease of access for handicapped patrons, creation of a job and career center section.
• We have added about 4 more public internet computers, started a homeschoolers book club, a monthly author visit for adults, have updated our nonfiction for both adults and children, and now offer one on one computer tutoring for adults.
• Have begun collaborating with the local school system on GED classes.
• Purchased additional databases for nursing and humanities.
• I have only been with this library for 9 months. Since then I can say we have met all of them in some way
• Friends have been trying to find funds for needed addition to building. Joined Overdrive to begin ebook collection.
• The use of the TexShare databases are meeting the research needs of our community.
• Purchasing additional electronic products for patrons (beyond Texshare) with assistance from Friends org. and city budget. Participated in City Educational Alliance and literacy programming.
• Our library and our Friends of the Library continue to have programs for adults such as author visits and art or cultural exhibits and program, programs for children such as Summer Reading, school class visits, and reading programs for HeadStart and Day care, use of our public computers for business continuing education, job search, and online applications, tax forms and social security and food stamp info, and college and continuing education test proctoring, and materials and computers for research.
• Internet Access and training; programs for preschool children and caregivers
• The library has become a community center--education, meetings, cultural events, computer classes and resources, events for children. We try to do something for all in spite of our limited funds.
• The Library has been meeting the needs of our community by providing internet access to people living away from home working in the oil boom.
• Our library's TexShare databases provided off-campus access to crucial academic resources available 24/7 on campus and off-campus.
• Digital Archives to preserve local history and community information
• I am new librarian, but our staff provides supplementary training on library resources, including sessions on using tools like Google Books and Google Scholar.
• Provide free internet on 50 computers as well as free Wi-Fi; multiple educational classes and workshops for all ages, partnered with chamber of commerce to inform business about library resources
• We are educating thousands of college students for entry into the work force and need them to be lifelong learners and critical thinkers to survive and adapt to the constantly changing technological and information landscape. Robust library database resources are absolutely critical for us to adequately Prepare students for increasingly complex career paths.
• We provided education since we are a community college
• Community heavily used digital information resources for education and economic development.
• Our library has worked with a nearby high school to provide research material that they would not have had with their current databases. Our university is also open to visitors, and with a community borrower card, visitors are allowed to check out some items and terminals with particular database access are available.
• We have tried every year to offer more electronic databases, more wireless access, and more classes for adults in a variety of interests to adults. ,
• We have updated and enhanced our library so that many of the Hispanics in our town are utilizing the library for family literacy improvement.
• Computer literacy classes for all, teen involvement, toddler time
• Our library has provided public access computers for numerous people, in and outside of our community, filling the need for educational and economic purposes.
• Larger building; more public access computers; more services; large meeting room.
• Implemented an information literacy program for business classes
• The library has provided, and strives to continue providing computer access to the community for both economic and educational purposes.
• Education, we now have more literacy programs for children. For adults better internet access
• Improved educational service to children, jobless, and seniors.
• Provided internet access; hosted story times.
• We have been able to provide the community of South Texas computers for students and families who do not have access to computers at home. We are also able to provide patrons the use of computers for workforce needs. I have also provided literacy classes to low income and families with children.
• We supported a number of locally-offered degree programs for other schools. We supported health care personnel and the general public.
• We are a specialized academic library; we measure success by linkage to information needs in
• We got support from our governing body and businesses that care about our community.
• PML has worked had to enhance the partnership with community organizations. The partnership with Su Casa de Esperanza helps us bring library services to areas of Pharr that normally don't use the public library. Local organizations already have the building and bring in the underserved patrons and we provide library services at minimal cost.
• BTOP grant -- began computer literacy, job skills, online, and Office products classes
• Our community upgraded schools and built a new public library.
• We renovated and expanded our library to meet the needs of the community.
• We offer preschool programs that focus on literacy, handwriting skills, math and science skills, and sign language. We also offer GED classes and computer skills and workforce development training.
• Literacy for all ages. We have Teen Movie Nights and give away books and the kids have really enjoyed that. They DO read the books and come back to discuss them. In our Summer Reading Program we provide a book each month for our Elementary, Junior High and High School participants. We read this book each week and discuss what we have read.
• We use Every child ready to read. We also have 10 public access computers as well as Wi-Fi. We have tried to ensure that our community knows about this resource and knows how to use it.
• Our community is developing the downtown area, creating a more inviting environment for the community, and bringing the community together.
• We are here for everyone equally, filling their needs for research, literacy and recreational materials as well as providing computers.
• Providing internet access to more patrons
• Provided digital inclusion, education, economic development, increased literacy access
• Placed more public computers for use and upgraded all our computers grant monies and donations. Worked with Region ix Service center for GED. Other agencies for part-time help and etc.
• Provided Internet access while job searching was at its peak. Partnered with twelve other libraries (forming the North Texas Library Consortium) starting in 2009, to share an ILS and share materials via courier.
• Computer lab; free Wi-Fi access; provide location & audience for university students storytelling class
• "Free" resource to those struggling economically
• Digital inclusion, we have been able to provide more computers to the public.
• More access to parents checking out school selections
• We provide computer access one hour each day to anyone with a picture ID and limited printing. LSCO along with Region 5 sponsor an annual Library Expo. We bring in speakers and provide time to work with vendors and network with other librarians.
• Supplying the computer access people needed to do resumes, take classes on line, find jobs
• We've been able to offer more reading material for our Teens and Spanish speakers/readers
• Don't really know- it's my first year at this district - no certified librarian for years here
• Our library has a new story time program in the fall and spring for 3 year olds.
• Provided ebooks and audio books for students and teachers
• We provided a tremendous number of ILL items quickly to libraries around the state
• I would like to see more funding made available thru different grants like the loan star grant.
• We are a small community that has provided vital services to the community than otherwise could not be obtained within the community.
• We have help people with the Texas Work Force web site and web sites to help people find work, early literacy classes, and computer literacy classes based on individual needs of patrons.
• Our school library has provided more digital access for students and faculty so that they can access such after the school day.
• Education and research
• Provided job search and resume writing tools. Performed onsite visits to local daycares and preschools in the area.
• Budgets must be supported to maintain current and technologically advanced collections and infrastructures
• Served 1000+ children with summer reading programs; public computers & wifi; info'l & educ'l resources for all ages;
• Supported clinical healthcare and education programs in our region.
• Served to meet critical educational needs of the community but also provided resources not available from any other source.
• Education, economic development, adult literacy, technology upgrades
• Library staff has helped job seekers and potential employers by providing assistance with online job Applications, meeting space and rooms for job interviews.
• Improving communication between school and home.
• Working closely with teachers for needed materials and helping unemployed with online job searches, resumes and applications.
• After School program, ESL Classes & materials, Computer availability, & community meetings
• Providing access to government documents
• As part of a major academic institution, our main focus is on educational attainment, both of our students and members of the general public who use our facility and materials.
• Within the last four years, we have opened a public library for the community of Shallowater. That, in and of itself, was a huge accomplishment and is meeting a critical need for library services in our community.
• We have doubled the amount of computers available to the public without limits
• Provide access to print and Internet resources for information and pleasure with an emphasis on all types of literacy
• Having literacy sessions for the under privileged
• We have worked hard at increasing information literacy among our students. Students are doing more in-depth research assignments and using quality resources. These resources are expensive, but "you get what you pay for" is often true in the information world.
• Provide community education to parents and caregivers for early literacy skills; provide introductory computer classes; coordinate with ISD to support education, incl. teen parents; coordinate with CofC and Econ. Dev. for local business support and growth.
• We hosted job fairs, provided early childhood literacy programs, and provided access to the Internet for job searches and distance learning.
• Adding Resume Maker and Learning Express programs, and
• We have our annual summer reading program that encourages children to read throughout the summer. We also have a computer class to help patrons learn needed skills to use computer.
• We offered educational programs, English conversation opportunities, children's programming
• We have provided books and internet sources for students working on their education. We have provided books and story hour for preschoolers. We have provided internet service for people looking for jobs. We have helped people fill our job applications when the workforce center wouldn't.
• Promote information literacy, critical thinking and lifelong learning to assist students in achieving their educational goals.
• Providing free access to the Internet provides numerous assistance to our patrons.
• As an academic library in a rural region, we have expanded our electronic resources, services, and programming for our faculty, staff, and students. We have also expanded our programming with our community in mind.
• As an academic library, we educate students to be thoughtful and industrious citizens.
• Computer classes in English & Spanish, computer classes specifically aimed at job resources.
• We do well with our children's literacy programs, and are about to double our Internet access computers.
• We provided the means for the unemployed to be able to search for jobs state wide. We helped with applications.
• Resources for job skills & employment searches. Programming for computer use skills, disaster preparedness, literacy promotion, problem solving, creative & critical thinking.
• We emphasize serious materials and programs rather than entertainment. We provide online services that help students, business, and job seekers.
• In an academic/graduate atmosphere our goals are to support the needs of the students. Currently allowing the community access to our collections and online services is also rather important.
• We have active family literacy and adult literacy/ELS/GED programming. We provide computers for public use with high speed internet. We offer business development resources.
• Up until this year we were able to the needs very well. However, without funding this year we had to cut back!
• Education, digital inclusion, literacy skills
• Until a few weeks ago the library offered the only public computer access in the community
• Youth programs that are academically correlated.
• Provided computers for those looking for jobs and students had access to online classes.
• We've gone digital in the electronic age and curtailed additional reliance upon solely print resources
• We are currently offering Wi-Fi connections for all of patrons that need access to services and resources to enhance their education.
• Our library has done little in this area. We mainly check out books for reading pleasure.
• We have provided digital inclusion for patrons since 1998 and literacy programming for children. Though we have offered continuing ed programs and job application tutorials the attendance has not been significant.
• We've been able to keep the doors open so our community members have access to what they want: computers, movies, wi-fi, children's programs, e-books and traditional old-fashioned real books
• Build largest Ebook collection in the region.
• Being able to stay open, and patrons have access to the computers, right now the old field is in full swing and people are coming in to use the computers.
• Our library had implemented story time at daycare centers. Few of our daycare centers are unable to come to the library for story time so the library goes to the daycare. We also implemented Adult Computer Classes.
• Tutoring English as Second Language & GED students, internet access for public, partnership with Head Start, Material delivery to homebound patrons
• We have improved access to digital content and databases specifically designed to improve education and aid in job searches and career development. We have improved our programming to all ages not just children. We have expanded our service area to include previously underserved areas of the county.
• Many more educational programs created and implemented, a major Job Center collection, Quarterly Job Fairs, Conversation tables for learners of English/Spanish, etc., Mobile Apps for Catalog and other services.
• The Library promoted enlightenment, community enrichment, and economic vitality throughout our city. It provided collections of high-demand, high-interest materials in a variety of formats; collections representing a broad spectrum of knowledge on a variety of subjects and formats; reference services that afford timely and accurate information in a variety of formats; and, implement programs and services for all ages that encouraged reading, learning, and cultural enrichment.
• Access to databases, library instruction and research assistance.
• Not receiving the LSL Grant funds has greatly limited what "extra" services we can provide. In the past those funds were outside programs & classes.
• Cost is the key factor here. The city faced huge shortfalls in the 2008 budget and big changes were forced. The library was a large proponent to the budget shortfall of the city. Hours were altered, resignations were tendered, and I was hired to run the library. We are able to offer the same, if not better services for our patrons. Accountability is enforced, along with fiscal responsibility. The collections and patrons are now culled on a regular basis in accordance with library standards. We've proven that it is possible to make 60% budget cuts and flourish for the community.
• We have started a strong story time program made possible with a Texas Reads Grant. We have seven public access computers made possible with a Tocker Grant. We have started a very successful book club which meets monthly. Our teen program, which is part of our story time activity, is unbelievable and won a state award a couple of years ago.
• Providing RIF books, collaborating with classroom teachers to meet student needs, inviting parents to library
• Strong community service as an outreach to small children once a week. Three different programs. Our
• We provided preschool children with programs promoting early literacy.
• Provided wi-fi; computer classes; family programming; partner w/Legal Aid; tutoring
• The availability of resources for students and faculty was obtained.
• Support school curriculum; provide access to online services for workforce and educational enhancement; provide resources for continuing education; literacy programs; life skills programs
• Databases helped our community access information that would not have been available. Grant money for programming and other
• Education
• Resources for job searching plus computer classes for beginners
• We had provided resources, services and programs to people with all levels of educational needs. Our story times and children's programming has contributed to the literacy levels of the children in our community. We provide a variety of one-to-one sessions on computers, e-readers, and other digital products.
• We train medical and other health profession students, many of whom stay and practice in Texas.
• Offering online homework help assistance, online job help and coaching including resume review; small business center; job seekers center; preschool literacy program in cooperation with Mayor's office, literacy, ESL and GED classes and information
• Supported school curriculum, grades PK to 4, Preschool literacy, parent programs promoting literacy, digital literacy instruction
• Our library and community provide many services for education and economic development. I cannot see what I am typing so I will not go into detail. Will be glad to provide more infor if another venue is available.
• Provided public access to computers and the internet, provided computer classes to the public, provided storytime programs for ages 0 -12 at various times over the past four years, began offering tutoring for adults wanting to pass the GED tests.
• We built a new library which opened November 2012. We increased the number of computers available to the public as well as an opening day collection.
• We proctor exams for free, provide computer and technology training, provide Internet access
• Education and economical development are critical needs for the state.
• Supported the communities’ educational achievement in junior-high through college, including public and private charter schools; supported the economic development of the community through the institution.
• Availability of computers/Internet for online courses and testing; for finding job opportunities and completing and sending applications; wi-fi has been available here for at least 10 years.
• Developed the library to meet the teaching research needs of the University.
• Through our online databases, we were able to offer scholarly resources that met the educational needs of our patrons.
• Economic development - provided computer classes and job search training, online job application and job test taking resources with free Internet access; Education - GED, SAT, GRE test prep materials.
• Promoted information and digital literacy skills
• Literacy, education
• Education
• Resource sharing across the county; preservation of historic materials; digital access available to all citizens.
• Access to all in the community through the Libraries computers. Access through Texshare and other databases.
• Assisted in addressing educational attainment, availability of PCs and electronic resources, presented job-searching workshops and partnered with local LVA - providing space for tutor training and tutoring
• all he’s help raise the educational level and help TX create an educated workforce for jobs
• We have committed to a Discovery product and have purchased several other databases.
• I have not been in Texas over the last few years so I have little feedback and knowledge. I know our district eliminated all professional school librarians on the elementary and the intermediate schools.
• Introduction of ebooks, joint project with day care center for early reading
• Supported educational attainment and literacy with databases, live tutors, learn-a-test and books. Provided WiFi access and Internet stations for a connected world.
• Continuation of databases and sources like Learning Express.
• Until the budget cuts, we offered online resources for our students and parents
• Extended hours
• Advocating the library services to students and community members has increased usage and has increased awareness to non-students and neighboring communities.
• Education of the children is very important to me. Teaching students to be lifelong learners and to do Independent research takes time and patience.
• Educated patrons in the usage of the internet and resources available through our library, both subscription and free.
• Our library taught hundreds of instructional sessions for our library community as well as the South Texas region in general.
• Parental outreach concerning family literacy; meetings to help parents understand digital learning, and cyber safety; Lessons on digital citizenship for students
• Education
• We offer internet access to those who do not have it; word processing for resumes plus assi
• Provided computer classes, and access to computers. Also had parenting classes available
• We helped with educational attainment and literacy
• Our library continues to give assistance to persons seeking access to resources for work.
• Provided venue and structure for continuing education to librarians in the area.
• More computers for Internet access
• The library's function is to serve as a lifelong learning, informational and entertainment resource center for the community.
• Our library mainly contributes to educational support and growth. We serve a large student body over 30.0000 and a large faculty. Our primary goals are supporting STEM subjects and working with the University to increase national ranking and recognition
• We have focused on electronic delivery sou8rces and are making an effort to become as much of a virtual library as a physical one.
• Digital inclusion with students in HS that have little tech opportunities or must share 1 computer in a home.
• Providing programs for children and adults enhancing literacy and sustaininess.
• We have built an addition to the library, meeting need for community requirements.
• Solid general growth and expansion of services (esp. electronic) to serve rapidly increasing population
• As a combined school public library, the rankings above happen to reflect how the library is most used. Each of the other needs is certainly valid for libraries in other situations. There is such a variety of needs everywhere, that the good of all must be considered with the importance of school libraries stressed. Because we take care of the schools, the families can be served by simply sharing resources without too much red tape. We try to waste nothing.
• As BTOP participants, we have moved forward with digital inclusion by upgrading computers and adding laptops. We have computer trainings on a regular basis. We also address workforce issues utilizing the broadband internet connection by assisting patrons with job searches, applications, resumes and even applying for unemployment benefits. Community businesses use our computers for staff/employee trainings too. In addressing literacy for our youngest patrons, we have added reading programs targeting toddlers, and continue with programs for school-aged children.
• We have provided unusual programming such as a Community Bake and Authors conferences to encourage "everyday" literacy.
• Providing Internet access and knowledgeable staff to help patrons with internet/computer issues
• Our library conducted a survey in conjunction with P.E.A.R.L. and as a result, we expanded our hours on Tuesday to accommodate lunch and after work patrons; we added a Book-to-Movie Club that meets bi-monthly and started GED classes.
• We have an afterschool program that we hire high school honor students to help elementary age children with their homework, also we mark the Accelerated reader books to make it easier for the children to find them to take tests at school, we have programs during the summer to help children continue reading during the summer, we have school visits at the end of the year to tell the children about our programs.
• We have added more online resources for our students. We have more than one campus and needed to find a way to have more accessible materials for everyone everywhere.
• Outreach, especially for our underserved families - bringing the library to their neighborhood, putting books into the hands of children. Increased technological access and education, including workforce-oriented training. Community cooperation - bringing non-profit service organizations together with the people who need their services as well as the volunteers who can help provide those services; out-of-school programming to keep kids reading and learning during vacation times.
• We have received a grant for bilingual books for children which was a tremendous boon for our community. We have also asked for local business donations for our Summer Reading Program which enabled us to do more programs for the children during the summer. Something that we hadn't done before.
• Our library has improved our services of technology including computer and job skills. Improved our children services. Offered ESL and citizenship classes
• We received a BTOP grant which enabled us to upgrade and add computers.
• We have been very active in sharing our resources with public libraries throughout the state of Texas through ILL.
• We have begun computer classes to assist people with job skills and help seniors learn to use technology. We have begun a robust teen program that features a weekly teen tech session each Wednesday afternoon and a teen summer reading program. Teens who used to run into the library to grab a book for school, now come in and stay to study or visit with friends.
• We developed bold goals to meet the educational and research needs of our students and faculty.
• It has allowed our system to pick up other databases to fulfill the educational, economic and literacy goals. eg. Learning Express, Job and Career Evaluator, Business databases and language learning database.
• Our library has made many improvements in library services. Some of those improvements are: 1) upgrading our patron computers; 2) having four computers with educational software programs for children; 3) adding e-books to our holdings; 4) adding databases that are available on our library website, such as Chilton's auto repair manuals, Texas legal forms, and PowerSpeak (language programs); 5) donating books to help two schools that work with abused children; and 6) donating books and magazines to our local hospital and four clinics for patients and family members. We see these services as being very beneficial to our library patrons and county residents.
• Our library has been open for two years and this is the first library that our community has ever had. We provide internet services, copier, and FAX services. Our area is economically disadvantaged with many residents not having internet at their residences. The library has provided a host of programs aimed at different audiences ranging from free computer classes, teen nights, adult book discussion groups, and preschool reading times. We had a full summer schedule of activities last year for our youngsters. The library has worked with the Chamber of Commerce on each of its endeavors. At the Holiday on First Street event before Christmas, the library let some small businesses set up in our meeting area and hosted the Hughes Springs Cooks event. This event had about 300 in attendance. All local businesses are encouraged to display advertisements for special events.
3. Looking ahead to 2017 - briefly describe your community and library - what do you hope to be doing or to have accomplished?
• Continue to offer access to a wider areas of information.
• Increased bandwidth for Internet access, reconfigured space, additional electronic materials, streaming media.
• Be a major partner in determining and meeting the educational, informational, recreational, and economic needs of this community. Library will be a part of the process as opposed to standing on the sidelines.
• Continue to improve library instruction to diverse students & to enhance our library collection.
• Increase the mobile services and apps available to our users. Expand our information literacy training to accommodate e-learning needs.
• Comprehensive access to digital resources via catalog and database indexing
• Build a new building and by doing so increase what we can offer our community
• Meeting the needs of younger faculty who demand quicker access.
• Our community includes health education, practitioners and general population. TSLAC helps us to improve the health of the entire community, cutting costs to the city, county and state.
• Provide superior services, easy-access (search friendly) databases, and improve discoverability of all resources.
• We hope to increase the usage of our resources & improve the research experience.
• Mid-sized, diverse, young families, middle class. Strong collections/services/tech.
• Continue making resources available over the internet, especially media to DE students
• Broaden exposure to new technology, help community gain confidence in new skills.
• I hope to have adequate staff to meet the growing needs of the community.
• Expand information literacy with H.S. cohorts to prep students for college.
• Higher literacy rate and digital access to e-resources with increased usage.
• Help those in need of services to keep the digital divide from becoming wider
• Have a family literacy program, online test prep, adequate computer access
• Be recognized as the lifelong learning and technology literacy center, as well as the "third place" for the community.
• New building
• We now have an unforeseen but vital goal of working for regional disaster recovery in addition to classic fundamental library mission and service offerings - our library is a central element in community recovery from the most intense (costly per capita) fire disaster in American history
• My private school library needs serious updating. I hope to get the average copyright dates to 1995-2000 and obtain a web-based catalog.
• We hope to maintain our gateway to electronic and non-electronic resources for education, job opportunities, life wellness and information needs of all types for our patrons.
• If we can keep up with what we have would be a success story. Hoping that we will not lose access to the Texshare databases
• Establish the library as a technology center for the entire community. Continue to provide services that enhance and enrich economic development in the community.
• Additional resources and training for resume writing, job search skills
• Provide a faster internet service and provide more outreach services to the community.
• Continues to be diverse with low literacy levels (non-English speaking groups)
• Population curious to read and learn.
• Greatly need to expand our building -- lsca style grants would be enormously helpful to jump-start the project
• Access to state of the art electronic information (ebooks, computers, internet, etc) An information center a Larger town would be proud of
• Increased the number of public access computers at all locations.
• Expand the available databases; increased learning opportunities for patrons
• Materials in all available formats, more computer access, more early literacy programming
• We would like to continue updating the collection, add a few more public computers, expand our children’s programs, and finally be able to provide ebooks for our patrons.
• Several projects are in the works that would firmly unite the schools and the library
• Online resources are more important to meet needs of distance students. New programs will require new databases to be purchased and ebooks.
• Replace old computers. Add e-books service. Expand programs.
• We hope to complete an addition to the building and find funds to complete the inside--shelving, furniture, etc. We will then have a needed meeting room so we can begin offering needed programs such as computer usage, story time, etc.
• We hope to increase the number of students who will have an in-depth knowledge of how to use TexShare databases to meet their research needs.
• Hope to utilize more cloud products to enhance digital access for our community. Continue literacy work and establish more cooperation with local school districts.
• Adding new services such as more digital and virtual databases, ebooks and audios and other media, and more computer and Internet access for our patrons, and more programming for adults and children.
• Continue enhancing digital inclusion / reinforcing the importance of reading
• In a consortium for e-books, digitized old records/newspapers from microfilm, greater community participation in library events
• To continue to strive to meet our long range goals in community needs.
• We hope to provide multi-campus instructional tutorials for literacy and provide credible information sources via the TexShare databases to an increasingly diverse student population
• Preserving local history. Providing Internet access to the community.
• We hope to have a new library building which better suits our patron’s needs. This building would include more meeting areas, a digital teaching room, and a webinar broadcasting/recording space.
• Continue to provide our current level of service with increases in the areas of technology education, literacy, and economic development
• I hope to say we have been successful in affording and providing current and authoritative information resources for the curriculum and career searching needs of our student body.
• We are working on getting a digitization plan of some sort and migrating more and more resources from tangible to electronic format.
• Because we don't know the answer to that we need flexible resources such as databases. We will be teaching lots more online courses from a variety of locations.
• We are hoping to further build the relationship with the high school we have been currently working with and we hope to continue working with the other universities in the area.
• Definitely adding e-book and downloadable audiobook access for our patrons.
• We have a young mother's group who bring their children for a literacy time weekly; we have an older group who come monthly for special events; we are involved with the school in a new ELL literacy program.
• More electronic resources and remote access information
• I hope to use the services of our library to make people more computer literate. We plan to have ebooks available during that time frame as well. We plan to continue with children's programming that
• Continually meeting the needs of our customers.
• Have information literacy requirements for all business classes that tie into library workshops
• Offer computer courses, ebooks for remote patrons and continue reading programs for children
• I hope the library will expand in the technology area of e-books, etc. A goal is also to have more adult literacy classes and more information in the workforce area.
• RFID self-check service, e-book consortium (or statewide) contracts to reduce costs. More professional development by webinar and archived webinars.
• Hosting more programs and classes.
• We would like to continue to serve the low income families in our area with literacy needs and provide books for them to read. The computers are also a vital resource for our patrons so they can do their home work and find employment.
• We will support our own degrees for the first time. We also hope to expand our outreach in Northeast Texas.
• Our goals include: To complete and move ahead with our local history collection. To provide the latest innovations in library technology for both public and school needs. To continue to provide recreational materials and services for the community. To stay abreast of enrichment opportunities available to school and public needs. To renovate facilities to best serve patrons and staff.
• We are a specialized academic library; by 2017 we will routinely purchase e-books
• Have our units upgraded to facilitate our patrons and their needs.
• PML plans on converting all of the desktops into thin clients.
• I hope to become a necessary partner is educational and business initiatives in the community.
• Upgrades to many schools or new schools. Increased library programming for all, including Spanish speakers, teens. Digital media lab.
• We hope to build a more visible collection digitally.
• We hope to have a new, larger library so that we can continue to serve our community by expanding and adding to the programs that we offer.
• I want to keep having programs for Literacy for all ages, but I would like to include adults next. We are going to be trying an adult portion to our Summer Reading Program.
• Ebooks, I hope to be more involved with the businesses in my community.
• We hope to have increased our budget and staffing levels, and be more current with technological advances.
• In 5 years, we hope we are still fulfilling the need for access to print and digital materials.
• Do to the economic situation maintaining current hours will be a challenge.
• Increasing the access to digital inclusion, education, economic development, literacy
• Keeping library patrons using our library for books and other services. Our library up to the standards they are now.
• We are a rurally isolated community. Our library is a joint-use facility that serves as the school library as well as the community library. We are the only means for public use of broadband internet services, and the only training facility. We hope to continue with our programming for children and toddlers, and are seeking volunteers for those since TSLAC no longer offers the Lone Star Grant. In addition, we hope to be circulating e-reading devices in the near future and are looking into the cost for Overdrive or another similar e-book provider. Looking further into the future, we hope to continue to be pro-active with regard to technological services.
• Although we are small, membership in the North Texas Library Consortium allows us to have and give more. We would love more members. We want to open more hours and provide access to ebooks and downloadable audio.
• Keep public connected with current technology; more computer classes; more adult programming
• integrating technology to meet community needs
• We hope to provide a larger digital collection, as well as the educational resources needed to teach the community how to use current and future technologies.
• Offering computer courses, e-books, and more programming
• Reaching out more to parents
• A regional participation in the Big Read or another community read program
• We hope to have expanded our area to include a larger pre-school children's area, provide a place for teens to come after school
• To be in 2 new facilities, our 2 branches are in 50+ year old buildings. Active Teen Group.
• The community and school staff don't realize the benefit of the library.
• Hopefully to proceed doing what we have been and to keep up with updated technology.
• We serve 39,000 students in a suburb of Dallas. We hope to be providing students with the necessary skills to navigate the information environment of the 21st century.
• Successfully managed the transition to purchasing mostly electronic books (hard to say more when can't see response on form!
• Being current with technology to serve all the individuals in the community by keeping current with the latest in technology equipment to meet the needs of our community.
• We hope that our community will see the Library as a place for ideas, for change -- for hope. We want to provide access to tools needed to improve quality of life. We want to look at the library as an entity rather than a building. We will be looking at more 24/7 services, collections, and programs.
• In 2017 our community will still be impacted by new people and new community members due to the Eagle Ford Shale oil boom. We see our library still being a vital part of the community we live in at that time. In 5 years we hope to have expanded our material collection and join the digital age more fully by offering ebooks and e-audiobooks for check-out to our patrons. With a new fiber optic Internet service soon to be available to the cities in our county, everyone will soon be caught up with technology and make better use of new devices such as tablets and e-readers, and we hope to be able to serve this new technology with these new initiatives.
• As a small library we hope we will be able to provide services to the community. Educational, employment and other services.
• Computer skills classes that will lead to employment, literacy classes, citizenship classes, and access to high speed internet.
• We hope to be maintain the professional staff that we have now -- 2 certified librarians. Many districts are replacing librarians with aides or closing the library.
• Make our students successful
• Be able to provide the resources our patronage demand and are seeking to reach their information needs.
• We hope to have a new library complete with the latest technology,
• Hope to have expanded our digital offerings in across ranges of genres and for range of patrons; improve services to teens and adults; improve offerings to visually impaired
• Additional outreach to support retention and persistence of undergraduates to graduation.
• We hope to have e-books and e-readers available for patrons which are currently cost-prohibitive; we hope to expand next door or to a second story to accommodate an office for our library director and open a section devoted specifically for teens; although our community partnerships are very strong, we are working to increase them and collaborate on grants; we want to have programs in place for job-seekers and graduating seniors
• Provide important information to enhance the educational experiences of students and the community.
• Move the above programs from grant-supported to budget-supported; increase payroll and staffing to support programs.
• We hope to keep up with technological changes since we are the only place that a larger percentage of our population can come to use the Internet.
• Involve more parents and students in using technology, particularly open source and social tools to better their lives and participate in community.
• The most important accomplishment I could achieve is to get residents to read who do not do so now.
• That our library will be the center point of the community w/meetings/classes/information
• I hope to keep up with the computer age, I hope to have more ebooks, I also am hoping we will still be opening books and reading them also. I was looking at some old pictures of this library when it was being setup in 1962 and there are so many changes that have been made. No one knew that we would have come to the computer age but yet we have and we are still here so I plan to still be here.
• More outreach to the community
• Our community will continue to grow faster than our physical collection leading to greater reliance on digital access. Patrons also will expect easier digital access to print and special collections.
• Our library has only been opened for two short years. By 2017, we hope to have significantly increased our holdings both in print and non-print format. We also want to expand our community education/enrichment services offered through the library.
• We hope to have a new library and triple our computer availability
• Continue to focus on all types of literacy to promote love of reading and life-long learning
• Continue projects for the less fortunate
• Every student will graduate with experience using quality research resources to find needed information. This will mean employers will have workers who are better equipped to handle their jobs.
• Strengthen relationships with education and business organizations; expand educational opportunities and classes;
• We hope to build new larger library with more public access computers and to be able to provide e-books and downloadable content for our library users.
• More collaboratio with business and schools in all 4 cities
• I would like to have our library offer e-books, start a children’s story hour, continue to have computer classes, make more of our community aware of the library in general.
• Offer educational opportunities to enhance the quality of community life and digital resources needed to compete in a modern world
• We hope to still be providing the books that people love to read and serving their need for a community. We hope to be able to provide whatever the technology is at that time.
• Support diverse learning needs, teaching, services, and access to general education and workforce materials
• Hope to continue to provide state of the art technology to meet the needs of our community
• Continue to expand electronic resources, services, and programming for our faculty, staff, and students. Partner with local libraries and museums to provide more services and programs to the community.
• Further integration of digital resources and how such material can be used effectively.
• I hope that accessibility to online materials has become more consistent (not as many Internet or networking problems) by 2017. I also hope that we will be able to hire more professional librarians to do more information literacy instruction, embed librarians in online classes, be more available for research help to distance learners.
• Our community will have more Spanish speakers. I hope that we can establish an adult literacy center for this area.
• Our library is being expanded, so all of our services - and our collection - are about to improve dramatically.
• We hope to be open.
• Increase community awareness and utilization of our services and resources.
• We hope our users will be better informed citizens who use the library for serious purposes as well as entertainment.
• Presently we only have a tangible collection. It is our goal to grant our student population the accessibility to e-resources.
• We hope to serve more patrons as the community grows. We look forward to developing more services for the growing Hispanic community.
• I hope to have helped persuade the powers that be to return funding to public libraries
• Increased circulation and use of library in general
• In the next five years I hope to expand the library's access to digital resources.
• Offering 21st century standards (ebooks, Ipads)
• Provide help for those that home school, online classes, job hunting.
• Be open 7 days per week due to community demand (we are currently open 5 days a week)
• Maybe hosting some college bound courses after hours, free reading clinics for all ages, free computer courses that can used in the workforce
• We are a very small library for a small city. This year we hope to join TSL, to begin to check out e-books, to reinstate story time and to initiate several activities for adults.
• Our long range plan includes more programs for adults and access to ebooks.
• That our doors are still open and we can still offer our community what it wants
• Our goals are to have expanded the size and scope of our library. We are planning to build a new library and would like to upgrade technology to fit the needs of our community. We also plan to continue AND improve our service programs that provide early childhood literacy, ESL, GED training. STEM focus is another area that we wish to expand. We have already added considerably to our junior non-fiction collection - now we'd like to see the school-aged children apply the materials.
• Effectively provide information literacy and technology as well as other traditional services to the community of Weslaco.
• Serving our community is the main source, keeping our computers running for them
• We hope to expand our Computer Classes and look for more adult programs to implement.
• Enhanced programs, community garden, updated collection, new computers, special computers for early childhood
• We hope to have expanded the number of branches in the system.
• Build a replacement for the main library with focus on cutting edge technology to meet community needs
• E-books/electronic resources for all ages will need to be part of our library.
• Community college: new security system, new ILS, unified discovery, online webinars.
• Provide more computers for patron access, possibly ebook services, ILS, more relevant programs.
• I believe that we will be able to offer more digital items in a "library friendly" manner; meaning the cost is acceptable for a library of our size.
• We hope to be able to keep ahead of the all the new technology and have the capability to be as progressive as possible for our community. I think there will be a greater need for online access and communication for our patrons. We will also need to provide more educational/literacy opportunities for the children in our communities.
• We will need new and more computers. Computer service beyond city limits into rural areas is quite limited. We will need e-books. Without state funding, we will need to stay afloat.
• New computers, open access to OPAC, allowing of student digital devices
• Continuing to offer services to meet digital, educational and economical demands of all ages. To expand the library building itself to meet our diverse population. Continue one of our strong programs of ILL services. Offer more programs such as author / book reviews; Informational programs and Educational and recreational programs to address our Rural Community's shortcomings. To Preserve the areas Historical Heritage and possibly partner with other libraries.
• Inventory and weeding in all areas of the library
• We hope to have the funds to provide some digital services to our rural community.
• We are in East Texas and serve a city/county population of aprox 38-40,000 residents. The library has 9 full--time staff and has recently moved into a renovated facility. I hope to have a flourishing computer class center at the library, an expanded collection of downloadable materials, monthly programming of interests to adults, a fully-staffed library with a larger budget.
• Extend wi-fi service; ebooks; ESL classes; media lab; reading materials in many formats
• As an academic library, our primary community are the students enrolled in our university. We continue to strive to improve the electronic resources we have available for their research needs. It is important to us to have access through the TexShare program to resources we cannot afford by ourselves.
• Increase usage by community at our location.
• Expand community partnerships with schools, businesses and service organizations; improve collection to meet demand; expand programs; provide space for collaborative efforts
• More access to e-books and other digital information. Programming that enhances adults and children in continuing education.
• Completed building renovation
• Become more virtual, viewed as more relevant
• We hope to continue all successful programs and build upon them.
• Much more connected with general community and underserved populations helping with health literacy
• Small business incubator in conjunction with city's Office of Economic Development; literacy of all types - early, digital, reading, financial; library focal place in community - community hub
• Continue to support the curriculum, involve parents as partners in literacy, offer instruction in the use of new technology and locating information through print and digital resources
• We are in the process of expanding and renovating the library. We hope to increase computer class availability, provide more meeting spaces for library programming and community use, provide a comfortable environment for adult library users, intrigue our younger users with colorful murals and a special tree feature that they can play in and around, and provide a space designated and designed for our teen users.
• We hope to stay in touch and updated technically as well as continue to serve our patrons with their reading needs.
• To make the library even more of a community asset. Create a place that citizens think of first when thinking about entertainment, information, and knowledge.
• Have more community members join the library by acquiring a library card and being able to use the resources available to them.
• We hope to continue to listen to the community and be able to adapt to the latest technologies and keep providing the excellent service that our community is accustomed to
• Prepared 35,000 students to be active in the State's workforce.
• An increasing emphasis on community service and local business through the University's community-based learning initiatives.
• Fully functioning and widely accessible wireless computer/Internet access; continued access to library services in remote areas of the county.
• Increase enrollment and increase the resources in the library to meet that increase.
• We are a small, private institution. By 2017 I would like to see us offer a library instruction course that would be mandatory for incoming freshman.
• New Central Library, meet the information needs of growing community.
• Rural, economically challenged. Hopefully, we can demonstrate our value and retain adequate funding
• education, digital inclusion
• Educating our constituents
• Larger facility.
• Hard to tell--trying to do more with less and less in the budget.
• As a suburban library system, we will work to further our vision of enriching lives by providing access to information, ideas, and interactions.
• We hope to have more space to accommodate the study needs of students (group/collaboration study spaces), and we expect to serve about 5-8 thousand more students than we currently serve. We must begin creating the collections needed by these students and the faculty on campus for their work, which means we must collect born digital materials in addition to collecting printed materials. We expect our digital library to increase by 50 % per year requiring a stable technology infrastructure for access to the content and for their long-term preservation. The library of the 21st century will be very different from the library of the 19th and 20th centuries.
• More integration with university and community; enhanced virtual presence
• A 2,500 student college with a small library and a small staff. We hope to overcome our limits by using new tools.
• I hope both the library and the community are having easy access to all forms of literature.
• Programming that brings in and supports children's learning.
• Hope to have more ebooks and online access to programming and webinars.
• Hope to have educated many more college students in the use of the library and its services. Also trained them as lifelong learners.
• This is my first year at this school. I hope to engage the parents in my community in more library activities, to let them understand they can get information for their lives (workforce, literacy) from our library.
• Extended hours
• Create innovating spaces that engage and persuade patrons to visit regularly.
• I hope to encourage all students to become lifelong readers.
• Local history and genealogy. Continue educating patrons in using library resources. Continue collecting and passing on local history and its importance in today's world.
• My library community is primarily post-secondary education students and faculty. We would like to continue the amount of outreach done in the South Texas region but this will be difficult with fewer staff.
• I currently oversee and alternate weeks working at two school libraries--one K-5, and one 9th only. My hope is that my district will be able to afford to have a certified librarian at each school.
• More consortial sharing of resources and services
• HCL has 11 internet computers for job search and research; 3 word processers for resumes builder; we provide assistance in both areas; prints materials in ASVAB, GED and resumes/job searching
• To provide more computer classes for the public.
• Get the kids to encourage each other to read more.
• Our hope is to maintain and enhance present services and engage in ebooks.
• Our online presence will be enhanced with more ebooks, focused driven unique databases. Physical branches having less books and more technology, continuing to be a gathering place and destination for the community either with programming or traditional educational and entertainment goals.
• Serving a much larger resident student population on our campus.
• More embedded librarian access in distance classes
• The library would like to continue contributing to the success for the community as a vital center of learning, knowledge, communication and enjoyment for all its residents.
• I would like to continue the programs we have implemented and to add new projects if we have funding and staffing available. Our library is very limited in space and parking. A dream would be to obtain a building that would give us more space, easier access and parking. This would allow us to provide more services for our patrons and our community.
• By 2017 I believe my library will offer more digital and web-based services that work together more flawlessly.
• Our goals for the next five years include adding additional hours to our schedule and increasing more access for patrons even when the library is closed. We want to add e-books and reference materials that will be available from our webpage at any time. We want to have more programs for targeted age groups including preschool literary and teen activities. We hope to increase our interaction with more of the local businesses.
• My vision is for our system to include at least two community centers by that time with a variety of spaces designed for patron engagement.
• Literacy is still, will be still an issue with fewer students coming to the classroom reading. Family literacy will continue to be a major issue with immigrants and lower socio-eco groups.
• Be able to work as a reference librarian and help branch staff learn about the vast resources available to tem and to customers.
• To continue to upgrade and grow as our community needs.
4. What other goals would you suggest?
• Qualified school librarians, full time, in every public school.
• Awareness of what libraries offer - not just in the big cities but in small towns.
• Providing mobile devices for access to databases and ebooks.
• Professional development mini-courses (especially in regions with limited access to community colleges).
• Adult literacy.
• Goals that focus beyond the traditional--if we want our communities to obtain enhanced quality of life
• Educational support and networking.
• Better communications with the public and legislators about what the library offers
• Library taking active role as advocate/venue for increased social infrastructure programs (seniors, health, whatever) for 'community enrichment'
• Libraries will have the necessary funds to meet the stated goals.
• Development of learning spaces -- it is critical to have nice places which people want to come to. If everything is online only it will be a big loss for libraries.
• Increase reading by juv/teen/young adults
• Establishing funds for libraries to attain equipment and staffing for early literacy programs, and internet access for all users
• Libraries will be a center for vital information regarding local resources.
• State-wide consortium to collectively bargain for release of DRM to libraries when contracts expire, for ex Overdrive material
• Courier service to region wide library group for interlibrary loan.
• Provide more after school and summer activities for our children and teens. But our county does not provide with extra funding for activities and we need our state grants back.
• Expand health literacy.
• PML plans on expanding library programs for teens and adults.
• More grants
• Build back the financial support from the Governor/Legislature
• Computer classes that will lead to employment
• Improving the TEX-SHARE program. It is getting increasingly difficult to find participating libraries.
• Libraries should provide resources that meet recreational needs of their communities as well as educational needs.
• Instructional lessons and social channels to encourage all citizens to involve themselves in the world beyond their house.
• Make reading for enjoyment a priority in all libraries across Texas. Americans are reading less and less every day. We as libraries need to make sure basics are covered before starting up new and expensive programs.
• Texas libraries will work collaboratively to preserve and digitize unique items that document Texas history
• Reinstating the Loan Star grant program for public libraries.
• Given our state population and demographics, literacy of ALL ages is of prime import.
• Outreach to English as a Second Language
• Better high speed Internet for rural areas. More assistance with e-books.
• Entertainment, community gathering spaces
• Texans will be well-informed on the political and social issues and more active as citizens.
• None, these cover the basics.
• These seem to cover most of what is needed.
• Increased computer literacy and training
• Statewide marketing aimed at increasing checkouts, with some special emphasis on digital checkouts (downloads).
• Develop State-shared bibliographic resources to support basic cataloging needs in lieu of reliance on failing support at the national level (i.e. Library of Congress, RDA debacle, etc.)
• Improve the collection to meet the diverse needs of the community in a changing world of technology. Increase and improve the scope and quality of programs and services. Increase the use of electronic services as a means to better access the library.
• Community services.
• State wide e-content plans, that offer e-content at a price that is comparable and reasonable to the size of the library.
• I'm not sure where this comment should go, or even if it fits in this survey. There are ever so many grants available, but in one-person staff libraries which are open only twenty hours, it is really difficult to find the time to write/apply for grants. Yes, various workshops have been offered.....even finding time and a sub so one can attend a workshop is a challenge.
• Continue to offer education and webinars to assist Librarians in providing the best possible service.
• Ensure all schools have a librarian on staff to teach library research skills, enhance literacy and life skills development
• Programming to enhance the lives and education of children and adults.
• Texans will learn to evaluate information to verify its validity and trustworthiness.
• Literacy skills for adults
• Emphasis on library/community/corporate partnerships, taking advantage of the bulk discount the entire State of Texas commands.
• Purchasing of databases for all institutions by the state.
• Adult literacy resources; computer literacy classes and resources
• Leadership assessment and continued professional development for library personnel
• Training will be available for library staff
• Provide infra-structure for all of K-12 and higher education by supporting robust pub lib
• Mandate that parent institutions provide a larger degree of support to their library.
• Making the Library attractive to all age groups including teens and young adults especially families with small children
• Library services educational purposes.
• Better access to state agency information
• Funding for programming to bring the patrons into the library - special events, evening, family events to bridge the gap with those that are not aware of services.
• Allow library staff to train other staff about the library resources they have access to so they can show customers where they are located, etc...
• Any that my community indicates its need for.
5. What other comments do you have about priorities for this five-year plan?
• TexShare Databases are not used by patrons at my small library - not intuitive.
• There must be flexibility in the vision--there are no cookie-cutter communities--must have ability to focus on local need
• Support lifelong learning providing more digital access with equipment and databases.
• Support the small libraries they really serve the most people
• Budgets will remain tight but to sustain, improve services we should much more strongly emphasize cooperation of library with other community agencies, nonprofits and public service activities
• Funding is a priority.
• Currently there is too much emphasis at the state library on the Texshare databases.
• Many libraries need help to maintain their buildings so all these services can be utilized. Need some program to help with this.
• Keep the TexShare databases and continue to provide free continuing education webinars.
• Right now our computers are our number one priority for our patrons’ free Internet access and for staff access to card catalog and circulation systems. I don't see this changing in the future.
• I feel that professional development for library staff is a very high priority, especially tools that help us to cope with the fast-changing technology challenges.
• Those LSTA purposes seem rather broad. Why have we been told we can't do things with federal money because they don't fit LSTA goals? Are the purposes different from the goals?
• Grants for collection development
• Best of luck with everything-hoping the financial backing is successfully reinstated.
• Need the state librarian to do a better job of articulating the role of the state library, especially to legislature
• I feel that the State of Texas should focus on items that are particularly hard to attain by libraries. I think that databases and online training are paramount.
• We need to serve the educational and employment needs of our patrons.
• You don't mention school libraries in the last five-year plan. I hope the upcoming plan WILL mention them, because they should definitely be a matter of priority.
• Libraries must continue to market their services in order to remain relevant.
• Just as long as the importance of libraries never ceases to be.
• Digitization and Databases are THINGS that help us to accomplish the other items listed. I don't think they are compelling on their own. But they are very necessary or the other areas can't be done.
• Literacy for All ages.
• Life-long learning
• Rough road ahead!
• Continuing education through webinars are greatly appreciated.
• Digitization is less important than moving away from MARC into metadata formats than are in common use on the Internet.
• Libraries must commit to being pro-active on civic engagement and lifelong learning, not just to providing materials and services.
• The top priority should be to reinstate funding to public libraries!!!!!!!!!
• All of these selections are priorities.
• We are in changing times and the opportunity to shift our thinking about information is paramount.
• Some great priorities but without funding sources and training most are not realistic to me
• As Matthew Battles states: …the public library [is] the light of cultural and intellectual energy…" The library has been and will continue to exist in the community even when we are gone. It is a legacy that we leave behind for future generations.
• It would be great if we could be given a choice to have the databases or the funds instead.
• All services the TSL now provides are vital to small libraries. Thank you!
• We need to emphasize not only early literacy skills but also literacy skills for adults.
• All the goals listed are critical. It is really hard to determine what is most important.
• Civic engagement sounds scary (especially e-government), community service and development sounds better
• State library needs to plan for a long range digital future with access for everyone.
• Cooperation with for-profit/businesses is important but secondary to indiv & comm supp
• It was difficult to choose some priorities, as I felt some ranked as equally important ;(
• State funding should be increased
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