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Library presents Department Development Plan metrics: more than 1,200 Innovation Center visits and expanded digital services
Summary
Library staff reported annual metrics tied to the Department Development Plan: 837 one-on-one help sessions, 166 literacy classes reaching 802 people, and 195 Innovation Center sessions with 1,219 visits, and explained how these figures align with the city strategic plan and budget reporting.
The Worcester Public Library reported annual performance metrics tied to its Department Development Plan, documenting expanded digital and literacy services over the past year.
Jason told the board that between April 1 of last year and March 31 this year the library logged 837 one-on-one support sessions for patrons on topics ranging from job applications to digital services; 166 literacy-coded classes reached 802 individuals; and the Fletcher Family Innovation Center hosted 195 sessions that attracted 1,219 visits.
"We had 837 one-on-one sessions supporting patrons with everything from job applications to digital services," Jason said, and added that the Innovation Center sessions totaled 1,219 users in the last year.
Jason explained that the metrics are intentionally reported on a March 31 cutoff so the numbers reflect a consistent 12-month period for inclusion in the department's narrative to the city. He said the Department Development Plan highlights align with the city strategic plan and inform the library’s budget-book submission, which the city uses during budget hearings.
Board member Ron asked whether the bookmobile figures and neighborhood outreach are included in these measures; Jason said staff track bookmobile visits and suggested a fuller presentation of year-over-year bookmobile statistics at a future meeting. Garrett, the deputy director for borrower services, now oversees the bookmobile program, Jason said.
The board discussed timing for the city’s budget hearings, with Jason noting that the council’s budget schedule is expected to include library matters on June 2. Board members requested continued access to the underlying data and indicated interest in a focused DDP review at a future meeting.
The board did not vote on budget or DDP items during the meeting; staff indicated the report is intended to inform the board and the public ahead of budget season.
