During the Caldwell City Council Workshop held on June 16, 2025, the library board of trustees presented their annual report, highlighting significant achievements and ongoing initiatives that underscore the library's evolving role within the community.

The meeting began with an acknowledgment of the current library board members, including Chair Bonnie Smith and Councilor Williams, who serve as the city council liaison. The board's dedication was emphasized, noting their invaluable support for library staff and programming.

The library currently employs 19 full-time staff, one part-time staff member, and two seasonal part-time staff members, organized into various teams responsible for different functions. The adult services team has notably expanded its offerings, introducing Hoopla, a digital lending platform that allows cardholders to access audiobooks, eBooks, movies, and music without wait times. This addition reflects a growing public interest in digital resources. Furthermore, the team has seen a 70% increase in reference transactions, primarily related to technical assistance, and a 50% increase in adult programming, attributed to broader family and multicultural programming efforts.

The outreach team has also made significant strides, delivering over 800 homebound deliveries to individuals unable to visit the library and participating in over 70 community events. Their outreach efforts have resulted in approximately 2,400 interactions, demonstrating the library's commitment to engaging with residents beyond its physical location.

Youth services reported impressive attendance figures, with over 5,000 participants in 66 programs during the last fiscal year. The summer reading program alone saw over 1,700 sign-ups and the distribution of more than 4,225 books, showcasing the library's role in promoting literacy and community engagement. The support of 18 volunteers, who contributed 737 hours to the summer reading program, was also acknowledged as crucial to its success.

The library's physical space is increasingly recognized as a community hub, facilitating connections and providing services beyond traditional lending. With 846 bookings for meeting rooms in the past six months, the library has become a vital venue for workshops, recitals, and community gatherings. Partnerships with organizations like St. El's for mobile health services further illustrate the library's commitment to serving the community's diverse needs.

In conclusion, the discussions at the Caldwell City Council Workshop highlighted the library's significant contributions to the community, emphasizing its role as a dynamic space for learning, connection, and support. As the library continues to adapt and expand its services, it remains a cornerstone of community engagement in Caldwell.