Brevard County Library System reports 1.6M visits and expanding services

Brevard County's library system is shining brighter than ever, with impressive statistics and ambitious plans unveiled during a recent commission workshop. With over 1.6 million visitors annually and a circulation exceeding 4.3 million items, libraries in the county are proving to be vital community hubs.

Wendy, the library director, emphasized the importance of staffing in maintaining the success of these facilities. "Libraries are great buildings, but they need to have the right staff to be the most successful," she stated, highlighting ongoing efforts to promote from within and gradually increase full-time positions. The library system has seen over 100 staff promotions since 2021, fostering a culture of growth and development.

The workshop also showcased significant capital improvement projects, with a budget of nearly $5 million aimed at renovating aging facilities. Notable updates include ADA compliance renovations at the River House, a historic site now hosting community programs, and essential repairs to plumbing systems in various libraries. Wendy noted, "We focus our funds on the envelope of the building, plumbing, air conditioning—those are all the things that our dollars are focused on."

Safety remains a priority, with enhanced security measures being implemented across library locations. The director reported over 360 events requiring significant intervention last year, prompting the addition of off-duty officers and security guards at select sites.

The library's digital presence is also expanding, with over 450 public access computers and a robust online resource offering, including e-books and educational platforms like LinkedIn Learning. The community's engagement is evident, with a 30% increase in attendance for summer reading programs, which last year logged over 1 million minutes of reading.

As the library system continues to evolve, it remains committed to serving the diverse needs of Brevard County residents, ensuring that these "hidden jewels" are accessible and welcoming to all.