Following the Numbers

Here at the library we’ve had a lot of inquiries about our increase in our service fees and our being closed now on Wednesdays. We’ve done our best to explain why these things are happening and I think everyone everywhere understands being pinched for funds. Sometimes it helps though to explain a little more in-depth just how organizations work, and why they do the things they do.


So today I’d like to take a moment to discuss Book Memorials. Most libraries have a book memorial program of some type where patrons can make a donation to have a book placed in memory or in honor of a loved one, friend, co-worker, etc. These programs are fantastic ways to support local libraries with struggling budgets and at the same time show your appreciation for the people you love and care about. Here at Eccles-Lesher Memorial Library our Book Memorial Forms give donors the ability to choose specific titles or select specific subject areas or topics. It is up to the individual placing the memorial to decide what they would like to see added to our collection. Sometimes we run into the problem of a specific title already having a Memorial. Sometimes people aren’t sure what the person being remembered specifically liked, so they give us a vague topic area that we then use as a guideline to find a good book. Our goal here at the library is to pick titles that will circulate, giving that specific library item the chance to be seen by a number of patrons.


In the world of public libraries our success is measured by numbers. We keep track of everything! How many people come to our programs, how many items we have available in the library to check out, how many registered patrons we have, even how many people use our computer lab. All of these numbers go into reports that then go to the State, showing the government that we are doing our job by providing necessary resources and support to the community.


Libraries only have so much room on their shelves, and yet we try to have a wide variety of subjects and selections available for patrons. We also try to keep our collection updated and full of current, accurate information. We try to keep titles on the shelves that will intrigue patrons and entice them to check them out, helping us increase our numbers and promote our services. If we can’t prove that we are being used then our funding sources consider us a wasteful investment and stop supporting us.


The library currently has many items for sale including cook books for $5, audiobooks for $1, tote bags for $5 and Friends of the Library tote bags for $6.50! All of the proceeds for these items go toward covering costs of library programs and materials.


Friends of the Library will be meeting on Thursday, March 5th, 2009 at 7 p.m. here at the Eccles-Lesher Memorial Library. Libraries all over the country have amazing groups like Friends of the Library who help promote library services, conduct fundraisers on the library’s behalf, and help plan and coordinate programs. Have some great ideas or just want a fun way to donate your time to your community? Come to the Friends of the Library meeting!


Unfortunately, due to our recent extreme budget cuts and loss of staff, we have had to eliminate another weekly program: Wiggle Time on Monday mornings. Lack of attendance coupled with our financial strains has forced the library into a more restricted schedule. Be on the lookout though in upcoming months for monthly programs and events.


State Tax Forms are in! Finally after a long wait we have received our supply of Pennsylvania State Tax forms. Stop on in and pick some up!


Remember our new schedule of hours are as follows: Monday, Tuesday, & Thursday – 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday & Saturday – 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Closed Sundays & Wednesdays. Check out our web site at www.eccles-lesher.org and our blog at http://eccles-lesher.blogspot.com/ .