Monday, January 14, 2013
Chambers County
Library System – December, 2012
For the past couple of years we’ve watched trends in library
needs change. The printed book is still
highest in demand, but our numbers for downloadable media have exploded in the
last year. We thank those of you who
take advantage of our free downloadable music, videos,
books, etc. on your Nooks, Kindles, iPads, and other devices. Increasing this collection is definitely an
area we’re going to focus on more heavily in 2013.
The end of the year reports are always the most interesting
to look at because we’ve always had the good fortune of seeing increases across
the board in all areas of service we provide.
One that sticks out for 2012 is programming. We had an 18% increase in the number of
programs offered and 7% increase in the number of people attending those
programs. The quality of programming
offered by the Chambers County Library System is definitely something everyone
should experience! From babies still in
the womb, to teens and adults; we’ve got something for everyone.
Total circulation: 233,812
Total database
logons: 11,013
Program attendance: 13,952
Public computer logons: 28,828
Wireless logons: 2,858
Walk-in traffic: 147,578
Remote logons
(databases, website and online services):
58,461
A few highlights of
2012 include:
·
Chambers
County Library System was nominated for Public Library of the Year
·
Plans are
in the works for a new West Chambers Branch Library
·
28,870
books were read during our 2 month Summer Reading Program
·
All staff
attended the Texas Library Association annual conference in Houston, Texas
·
The
Friends of CCLS held several successful book sales
·
The
library implemented wireless printing for the public
The Friends of Chambers County Library System held another
double header book sale at Anahuac and Mont Belvieu. Over $1,000 was raised, and that money will
go towards library services and programs in the upcoming months. All items sell for less than $1, not a bad
profit for a few days work!
The Anahuac branch held “Twas the Night at the Library”
program with over 60 kids and their parents in attendance. Activities included stories, crafts, games, snacks
and a special appearance from Mrs. Claus.
All the libraries held programs for kids and teens for the holidays with
Santa managing to squeeze in a visit during his busy schedule.
Book clubs are in full swing at all 3 libraries. This is the first time in CCLS history that
book clubs have been offered at all 3 branches.
The meetings range from formal to informal discussions about what
everyone likes (or dislikes) about the books.
Often times members bring snacks, and what goes better than a good book,
good discussion, and food! The Chambers County Library in Anahuac will be
starting up their 6th year, which goes to show we’re doing something
right!
Branch Librarian Aquilia De la Cruz presented a Salsa Making
program on December 6th. This
program isn’t something you would traditionally associate with libraries, but
it’s a great example of the wide variety of programs offered at the
libraries.
Branch Librarian Aquilia De la Cruz, and Library Technicians
Toya Peters and Angie Broussard attended FAFSA training at Lee College. FAFSA is the Free Application for Federal Student
Aid. Staff from each branch brought back
great information to share with the staff to better assist students who might
need help as they begin the tedious process of filing for financial aid. To round out the month, the usual movie
programs, writers’ groups, teen game days, computer classes, and craft clubs
were offered.
In personnel news, County Librarian Valerie Jensen and
Technical Librarian Kathy Fielding have been conducting interviews in search of
a new Assistant County Librarian.
Applicants are coming from all across the United States, but we haven’t
found that right person yet. Phase one
consists of an online interview and depending on that, we’ll offer an on-site
interview to better acquaint applicants with our Library System. The upcoming week brings us daily interviews
so we’re anticipating good things from our next round of applicants.
Until next month!
Dakota enjoying storytime!
Mrs. Claus visiting the Anahuac branch!
Staff member Kim Hart demonstrating a science experiment at the latest Homeschool program
# posted by Valerie @ Monday, January 14, 2013 
