Final Blog of process

The scan of Georgia is complete!

Participating in the GPLS Strategic Planning Committee has been very educational for me in many ways. It has been interesting to witness the State library in action and to participate in planning for its future. There are many things one can learn in a classroom however experience is the best teacher. In one of my classes we discussed scans. Here I was able to complete one. In class we discussed S.W.O.T's. I was fortunate to participate in one of those as well. Finally in class we discussed challenges libraries are facing. Not only do I witness that in my day to day job but I was also able to understand some of the challenges GPLS faces or will face in the future. Thank you for allowing me to share my experiences with you.

Leslie James
MLIS student, University of Alabama

Libraries and communities

During a team planning meeting the participants were encouraged to think outside the box and dream about the perfect library scenario, money being no object. The what if scenario was if Georiga was named to have the best libraries in the world. What would make us number 1?

Without funding issues many great ideas came forth including public libraries being the first place people turn to for community information and events in the area. Libraries would have a kiosk or community in action section to promote how the library is collaborating and partnering with area civic groups, community organizations, local theater and arts groups etc. I am reminded of this exercise as I continue my graduate studies. In Public Library Administration we have discussed many articles pertaining to public libraries. Some of the recent discussions have centered around putting library information kiosks in Community Centers, Senior Citizen centers, YMCA facilities and other similar type places. The idea is to bring the library to the community. In most cases this was suggested when the library needed more branches but funding was unavailable. However this was also thought of as a means of bringing library services to patrons who might not otherwise have access. The computer terminal(s) would have all the library information and databases. Patrons could access that information as well as place holds on library books. Depending on the set up some of these terminals were staffed with library personnel at specified times during the week. They would assist people with database access or placing books on hold. Selections of books based on reader surveys would be brought with staff for patron check out. This type of service functions similar to a book mobile. These were just some of the ideas that brought the library to the community.

Final on Political Climate

Another example of how the public library provides valuable services to the community is The Child Support Commission. This agency sends single parents to the library to access their website via public use computers to file the necessary paperwork for child support. This website asks the patron a series of questions and then generates the “Domestic Relations Financial Affidavit” based on the answers. And finally, a very recent development is the placement of computers in young adult areas of public libraries for parents and teenagers to access information on Georgia driving laws and restrictions for new drivers. These computers are called Joshua computers for the law that governs teenage licensing with the same name.

In conclusion the political climate for public libraries is based on many things. They are public opinion, elected officials, library directors and staff involvement in the community, tax revenue, population, and the library’s ability to adjust to the growing needs of its patrons. Those persons interviewed strongly suggested that library employees be involved in community activities, social and civic clubs and keep abreast of local politics.

Planning process

In my Public Library Administration class at UA we were divided into two groups and given a particular county and library system in Kentucky in which we were to gather the data necessary to begin mapping out a five year plan. Because it was just an exercise and the libraries were unaware of the assignment we could not contact them. We could only use census and county data and the library’s own website for our information. The exercise was fun but also frustrating because it is difficult if not impossible to do a S.W.O.T. analysis without input and feedback. What the exercise taught me is how important all those S.W.O.T. analysis meetings we did at GPLS as well as the team meetings. They are a vital part of the planning process. I am really enjoying this process.

Leslie

Example of library service

One thing that was said in the interviews was that libraries are perceived by the general public as good. They are known for having excellent service and to provide an important connection point in the community. If one was to ask or survey patrons about libraries they would say they are very necessary and they do a good job. Patrons feel they receive a benefit from the library. However these same patrons want what they want when they want it. They are not interested in the reasons why they cannot have what they want only that it is not available. The library though is generally thought to provide an important service and one with quality. Not all agencies are viewed this way. Although the Department of Juvenile Justice provides a vital service to the community it is not always viewed in a positive manner like the library. The library is regarded by many to be a central gathering place where information needs are met. These needs can be personal enrichment, pleasure reading and job enhancement. The Department of Motor Vehicles now requires all individuals needing to renew their CDL or Commercial Driver’s License to watch a video and pass a written test. Many patrons visit the library to view the video via the internet. Once the test is complete they can then print a certificate stating they have watched the video and passed the exam. This certificate is then presented to the DMV and the license can be renewed. This is just one example among many how the public library provides a valuable service to the community.

PINES

Leann,
I can sympathize with you. I ordered some books in July and have not received them either. But on a more positive note I requested some books last week for my Public Library Administration class and received 5 of them already. I was very pleasantly surprised. There is no rhyme or reason for somethings. I cancelled the holds that were stuck in transit and replaced the ones I really needed. This has worked for some of my co-workers.

Leslie

Well...

I'm frustrated. I ordered some books for the history paper several weeks ago through Pine. They are not here yet. The librarian at my local library told me it has taken books up to two months to arrive in the past. Two months? I really didn't believe she could be serious. She also said there was no way to track these books. That alarms me.The computer has said they are in transit from Atlanta to here for weeks. Where did they go? Is this normal? Does document delivery take that long everywhere?