Page 88 - CITY OF WATAUGA, TEXAS ANNUAL BUDGET PORTRAIT

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 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 FY2025

• Achievement of Excellence Award from the Texas Municipal Library Directors Association for 2024.
• Approval of Library Board for revisions of the “Library Confidentiality,” “Interlibrary Loan,” and “Material
Selection” Policies. Also, approval was given to the new “Insect Infestation Policy.”
• On January 7, 2025, our first all-day training was conducted. The in-house training created by our Senior
Youth Services Librarian was designed to educate staff about the skills and knowledge to effectively serve
patrons and manage library operations (customer service, library resources & technology). Fire, Human
Resources, and Police Departments also participated in the program.
• Since the library will remain in the current building longer than originally planned, funds have been allocated
to revamp the current space. New chairs and tables have been ordered. To maximize the use of staffing, a
central desk has been ordered where most staff will circulate through (Adult Services, Circulation, Reference,
and Youth staff). This will reinforce cross-training and improve support when staff are out sick, on vacation or
in other emergencies. Updated wiring, and an improved self-service printing station are also being addressed.
In addition, there will be a new snack area located near the front entrance of the building.
• The library conducted an Input Opportunity Survey from May 2024 to September 2024. We received 163
responses, which is 0.66% of the population of Watauga. According to the survey 118 participants live in
Watauga. The next largest groups are in North Richland Hills and Fort Worth. Most participants reported
coming in to read or browse the collection. They also reported using computers, printers, copier or scanner.
The library users liked the customer service, followed by the collection. They valued the materials, youth
classes and events, and online access the most. 47% reported downloading eAudiobooks, eBooks, and
eMagazines. 29% were not aware that we offer eMaterials, though we make a concerted effort to share that
information. 41% of the respondents shared that they “often “shop, dine, or frequent Watauga businesses
when they visit the library, and 48% “sometimes” do so.

Goals/Objectives for FY2026

• 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.
• Provide residents with 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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