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West Fargo library reports record circulation, strong summer outreach and new mobile van service
Summary
The library reported nearly 25,000 total circulation in June (a new high), strong door counts, growth at a satellite location, increased outreach via a new van (Library on Wheels) and popular summer programs and nontraditional checkouts such as hot spots and launch pads.
Library staff reported record circulation and rising use of outreach services during the summer months.
The director said the library had its highest monthly circulation to date in June, with main-library physical circulation over 16,000 and total circulation nearly 25,000 across all services. The main library recorded a door count of 6,729 in June; the new satellite location recorded 864 items checked out, a door count of 479 and six new library cards in June. Staff said the recent satellite and outreach activity contributed to increased usage.
Staff highlighted nontraditional checkouts that have proven popular this summer, including mobile Wi-Fi hot spots, launch pads (preloaded tablets for children and English-language learners) and state-park pass checkouts that help remove cost barriers for families. Youth and teen summer programs — including Tuesday crafts, STEM programs and a teen Pokemon craft event — drew strong attendance. An adult escape-room program (an art-heist theme) also received positive feedback.
The director described the new "Library on Wheels" van (which replaced the previous reading bus) as a significant improvement: custom shelving and a ramp reduce staff injuries and make materials easier for patrons to browse. The library acknowledged First International Bank for a donation that helped secure the van.
Staff said a recent space-needs assessment found the library is underserving the community (roughly 50% shortfall in space and collection metrics by some measures) and noted continuing staff work on series labeling for children's chapter books and a nonfiction evaluation to identify collection gaps.
No formal votes resulted from the director's report; staff circulated a June monthly impacts report to the board and offered to provide additional detail on space and comparables if the board requests it.
