Libraries Stretch a Buck

We’re asking you to Speak Up for Your Library because despite being busier than ever, libraries know how to stretch a buck!

In these difficult economic times we’ve heard a lot about the need for “belt tightening” and the elimination of “duplication of service.” Libraries have been belt-tightening and improving efficiency for years. They’ve also created efficiencies through cooperative purchasing arrangements through their regional public library systems, operation of a shared online library catalog, and a delivery system that makes it all work. But now they’re having to consider options like reducing staff and the purchase of materials, as well as scaling back the number of hours and days they are open, all of which results in a reduction of service for residents.

The Indianhead Federated Library System uses state allocated funds to: offset delivery costs for interlibrary loan to libraries; provide a comprehensive continuing education program at no cost to librarians or libraries; give technology support; provide building design consultation and graphic arts services free of charge; and provide many other consultative services at no cost.

Doing more with less is what library systems and their member libraries (including your local public library) are all about, providing the best possible service with the resources available. Continued reductions in funding will only further reduce the service levels local public libraries are able to provide.

To ensure that libraries are able to continue meeting resident needs into the future, lend your voice to the effort and speak up for your library!

To do this week: Visit your library and ask what you can do to “speak up.”