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Laredo library advisory committee reviews monthly updates; staff highlight summer programs, director posting and e-rate funding
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Summary
Committee members reviewed condensed branch updates, discussed summer programming and a request to acquire Don Quixote children's books, and heard that the library director position is posted and the federal E-rate program continues to cover much of technology costs.
The Laredo Library Advisory Committee reviewed monthly branch updates and program flyers for the coming months and discussed collection gaps identified for an upcoming Don Quixote–themed event.
Library staff told the committee that library director recruitment is underway — "they did post a library director position" — and that branch updates were condensed to two bullets per location to help committee members prepare concise talking points for council members. Staff also said the library's technology services are heavily supported by the federal E-rate discount program, which provides "90% discount on technology," a staff member said, and which committee members credited with enabling computer and Wi-Fi access for patrons who lack home internet.
A committee member preparing a Don Quixote–themed event said she was "surprised to hear that the children's library doesn't have a single book on Don Quixote" and asked whether children's adaptations could be purchased for the event. Library staff explained that selections are made monthly by trained librarians, that digital versions (Libby, TumbleBooks, Sora/OverDrive) may be available, and that patrons can submit purchase requests either electronically or via a paper form at service points. Staff added that interlibrary loan is an option when a physical copy is preferred.
Committee members reviewed April branch statistics and noted the library will see attendance rise in June with summer programming. Staff explained a recent drop in physical audio/CD circulation and said they would include a note in next month's report clarifying that some formats are being phased out so readers understand the decline in the raw numbers.
No formal action was taken on purchases or staffing at the meeting; members asked staff to search digital databases prior to the Don Quixote event and to pursue purchase requests if appropriate.
