Woodland library reports big gains in circulation, programs and bookmobile outreach
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Summary
At the Nov. 18 City Council meeting, Library Director Rita Galindo told the council Woodland Public Library’s FY24‑25 circulation exceeded 200,000, program attendance rose to about 28,000, e‑materials grew 18%, and the bookmobile 'Priscilla' expanded outreach with a $40,000 YCOE grant.
The Woodland City Council on Nov. 18 heard an annual report from Library Director Rita Galindo that the Woodland Public Library saw increased usage across circulation, programming and outreach in fiscal year 2024–25. "Our total circulation for last year was over 200,000, closer to 300,000, and that is an increase," Galindo said, calling out gains in both physical and digital lending.
Galindo told the council the library now averages about 54 visitors per hour and recorded roughly 28,000 program attendances, up from about 18,000 the previous year. E‑materials led much of the growth: Galindo said e‑book and other digital circulation rose about 18 percent, and she warned publishers’ licensing rules make managing digital collections challenging. "We're only licensed one copy of the title...the publishers actually limit it to 26 circulations," she said, describing how licensing, not demand, often limits access.
The presentation also highlighted the library’s bookmobile, named Priscilla, which went into service in February 2024. Galindo said Priscilla is a 32‑foot vehicle carrying approximately 3,000 items and that a $40,000 grant from Yolo County Office of Education supports bookmobile programming and the new Reading Dragons initiative that runs from the vehicle. The director said the bookmobile visits schools, care facilities and community stops to reach patrons who do not come to the main branch.
Library staff described an array of programs that contributed to attendance gains: an expanded summer reading program that returned to paper logs, a new concert series at the Carnegie, and daily offerings for children and teens. Square One, the library’s makerspace, added a new laser cutter and provided 239 basic use and safety classes; staff said Square One now averages about 500 patrons per month.
Galindo also reviewed volunteer‑based adult literacy services. She said nine learners met program goals last year, 22 volunteer tutors reported thousands of tutoring hours, and the program includes citizenship test assistance. Much of the library’s programming growth has been supported by State Library grants, she added.
Council members thanked Galindo and asked a few clarifying questions about field‑trip grades and programming; the director introduced several staff members present, including Sylvia Moreno (circulation), Casey Wilson (bookmobile and adult literacy) and Sarah Day Murch (teen services). The council did not take formal action on the report; members praised the library’s outreach and program growth.
The council will hear additional budget and program items later in the year if staff request further funding or adjustments.
