Thursday afternoon, Sue Blechl, director of the Emporia Public Library, went online to answer questions from Gazette readers. Here is a transcript of the chat session:
Q Is there any consideration being made to charge a fee or membership for library services to reduce tax burden?
A State statutes provide that public library services be free of charge to the residents of the community. This allows that information and programs are available to all. It’s a democratic principle.
Q My family loves the summer reading activities you plan, but honestly it seems like the library is just too small to hold most of the big activities. We gave up and stopped going because it was just so crazy to get around everyone and get to the different stations, etc. Is there any plan to expand the library or a possibility to hold some of the activities off-site, where it is easier for many to participate?
A We’re glad that you like the library’s programs and we strive to find ways to cope with many participants and a limited space. An expansion to the library would provide additional space for children’s services and allow us to accommodate more people and activities. While we do hold some events off-site (at the zoo or at the aquatic center), we really want people to be at the library where we can share our materials and utilize our staff to best advantage.
Q How does the Emporia Library compare with others around the state?
A EPL has less funding per capita than the state average. We receive about half the local funding of Hutchinson, Manhattan and Salina. That means we have to do with fewer staff and services. All libraries are working hard to provide technology services in demand. Our materials collection is comparable to others in our class, but we need more computers for the public and perhaps more open hours to serve the public well.
Q What needs does EPL have and how can people help?
A We have several needs: one is for everyone in Emporia to know about our services. People tell me that we are the best-kept secret in town. I hope our patrons are sharing what they know about the library with their families, neighbors, and others. We want people to get full value for their tax dollars. We also need the support of the Friends of the Library, and we need more Friends. The support we receive from Friends members allows us to do more than just the basics — to enhance our services. Another need is for input to the staff and the Library Board on what services are needed. We will be working on a strategic plan and the public’s viewpoints are important.
Q I wish you had story times in the evenings and weekends for those of us that work outside of the home.
A You’ll be pleased to know that we have Family Night @ the Library each Tuesday evening at 6:30. With stories, crafts and other activities, this is a great opportunity for parents and kids to enjoy the library together. In addition there are regular Saturday events. This month is Family Reading Month, with special programs and prizes for families that read. Our Web page and newsletters provide lots of details on these and other programs.
Q Why do people donate money to the library if they receive money from the city? What does it mean to be a lifetime member of the library and what are the benefits?
A Our gifts and memorials program supplements the tax dollars that the city, county and state provide. We depend on these donations for special needs: equipment, programs, and collection enrichment. Our Friends of the Library memberships also are beneficial. A basic membership costs $15. A lifetime membership is $150. Another valuable program is for endowments of at least $1000. The interest on the gift is used for library needs in perpetuity. The gift that keeps on giving.
Q Why is the funding so low compared to other communities?
A The library’s local funding is capped at 4 mills, through a charter ordinance by the city commission. Other cities may levy 5 or 6 mills. This is a local decision.