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Port Washington library staff update: new children's librarian, teen services vacancy and summer programming changes
Summary
The library reported a new children's librarian with strong summer program sign-ups, the impending departure of the teen services employee, recruitment plans, reevaluation of the teen café and a move away from Beanstack for summer reading tracking.
Library staff told the Port Washington Library Board that a new children's librarian has started and summer programming attendance has been strong, while the library will lose its teen services employee this week and is recruiting replacements.
Why it matters: staffing and program changes affect service delivery and summer programming for families and teens. Board and staff discussed options to sustain teen services and how to track summer reading without paid Beanstack software.
Details: the children's librarian started and led programs that drew 40 to 50 attendees; staff reported she plays guitar and that summer reading turnout looks promising. The teen services position’s last day is Thursday; the board discussed open recruitments for a library assistant/storyteller and a generalist library assistant and confirmed jobs should be posted to the city's website if not already. Staff said teen café attendance has dropped dramatically and they are consulting for professional advice and considering outreach options (including working at the high school or developing partnerships) to rebuild participation.
Summer reading administration: the board was told the library will not use Beanstack and will track summer reading on paper; staff said Beanstack was discontinued at the state level and other nearby libraries are not using it.
Outcome and next steps: staff will post job openings, continue outreach to peer organizations (including a partnership with Gallery 224 for programming) and report back to the board on recruitment and teen program strategy.
