Page 190 - CityofWataugaAdoptedBudgetFY25

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 FY2024

• Achievement of Excellence Award from the Texas Municipal Library Directors Association for 2022.
• Approval of City Council & Library Board for revision of the “Meeting Room” and “Material Selection”
Policies.
• As a member of the MetroShare Consortium, Watauga Public Library applied with the consortium
members for a third “Regional ILS Cooperative Grant” with the Texas State Library and Archives
Commission (TSLAC). The applicants were informed of approval from the Grant Review Panel in May
2023.
• The successful launch of the MetroShare Community of Libraries, which is the 501 (C)(3) Non-Profit
group that evolved from the MetroShare Consortium.
• Post-Covid library user behavior continues to evolve. Library visits and circulation numbers are
rebounding and changes in use patterns identified. This challenge is not new for public libraries which
are always adapting to better serve their communities.
• Adult Services events developed and scheduled due to patron requests: Saturday art classes,
widowhood presentation, xeriscaping lecture, Harp Essence, trivia nights, and composting class.
• A successful Summer Reading Program for youth and adults. Events included art classes, book clubs,
cultural performances, science-based presentations, and more.
• The return of Big Vehicle Day, a popular cooperative effort between the library, local businesses, and
City of Watauga departments.
• The Adult Services Department has launched a new At-Home Delivery Program, focused on serving
Watauga residents who cannot leave their homes.
• Family Fiesta was held to celebrate Hispanic/Latinx Heritage Month (Sept/Oct).
• Close to 300 patrons came to watch The Nutcracker performed by the North Central Ballet.
• In January the Lunar New Year was remembered with a traditional Lion Dance.
• Professional storyteller Oba King joined us to commemorate Black History Month with a program in
February.

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