Page 174 - CityofWataugaAdoptedBudgetFY24

Library

Mission Statement

The Watauga Public Library is committed to enriching the community through access to informational,
educational, cultural, recreational, and lifelong learning materials in a variety of formats. The library anticipates
and responds to the needs of the community and offers a variety of classes, presentations, workshops, and
services in a professional, efficient, caring, and friendly manner.

Department Overview

The library is responsible for the day-to-day operation and technical services including acquisition of materials,
cataloging and classification of materials, management of the collection, and management of the integrated
library system. The library shares the vision of the nation’s founders that liberty and learning are inseparable
and that a democratic people must have free, open, and equal access to information.

The four core purposes of public libraries are: 1) Learning, 2) Literacy, 3) Information, and 4) Community Spaces.

Highlights/Achievements for FY2023
• Achievement of Excellence Award from the Texas Municipal Library Directors Association for 2023.
• Addition of a steaming service mid-year for library patrons.
• Approval of City Council & Library Board for revision of the “Circulation” and “Library Confidentiality”
Policies.
• Adult, Circulation, Technical Services and Youth staff participate in various committees to improve
communication and functionality of the MetroShare Community of Libraries.
• All staff completed required training for 501 (C)(3) Non-Profit group, MetroShare Community of Libraries,
Watauga belongs to. This was a grant requirement.
• Staff members participated in research for Friends Bylaws revision.
• Staff submitted a proposal for formation of Watauga Youth Council, to be managed by an appointed
Library Staff Liaison.
• Two Library Workshop presentations on October 9, 2023, and January 11, 2024.
• Youth Services staff applied for a grant from the Woll Memorial Fund through the Texas Library
Association.
• Youth Services staff has created various “Clubs” that encourage improving learning and literacy skills.

Goals/Objectives for FY2024
• Expand and adapt to informational diversity.
• Continue a strong commitment to exemplary customer service.
• Examine the organization of the department to better address workflow.
• Seek diverse ways to provide professional services.
• Select high quality materials and formats to meet the informational, educational, and recreational needs
of the users.
• Residents will have the resources they need to explore topics of personal interest and continue to learn
throughout their lives.
• Serve as a safe place where people share a sense of community.

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