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Your Voice, Your Library, Your Community

In an endeavor to understand the many communities that make up Los Angeles County, our director Skye Patrick decided to visit the libraries directly and host open and honest discussions with customers and stakeholders. We received a lot of feedback through the town-hall style meetings, through our online feedback forms and through the feedback boards posted at local libraries. Listed below are the action items we have identified based on the feedback received through the community visioning sessions.

2017 Action Items Based on Community Visioning Session Feedback*

Executed

Work in Progress

Planned or Phased Implementation

2nd Quarter 2017 3rd Quarter 2017 4th Quarter 2017 1st Quarter 2018 2nd Quarter 2018 3rd Quarter 2018 4th Quarter 2018 1st Quarter 2019 2nd Quarter 2019 3rd Quarter 2019 4th Quarter 2019
Expanded Literacy Programming The Library has expanded the early literacy program Family Place to 84 locations, as well as enhanced early literacy offerings through a mobile literacy service known as the Reading Machine. The Library will also continue to support its Spanish language literacy program, Leamos.
Establish a Mentoring & Tutoring The Library has partnered with Workforce Development, Aging, and Community Services (WDACS) to launch the Reading STARS tutoring program, which pairs older adult volunteers and students in grades K-3. The Library will continue to support its
Online Homework Help program, which offers free one-on-one tutoring, homework help, and workforce development with professional experts in the field. 50 library locations are designated Homework Centers with homework helpers to support the educational needs of students.
Expand School Partnerships The Library has committed to be part of the ConnectED Library Challenge and is reaching out to schools to ensure youth receive library cards and knowledge of the resources available to them at the Library. To further reduce barriers to service, the Library has created a student card, a fine free account which provides access to the Library’s vast online resources and up to 3 print items at one time.
STEAM Programs In addition to the hundreds of STEAM programs hosted at libraries each year, the Library has expanded its fleet of mobile makerspaces, MākMō, from 4 to 10 vehicles allowing us to deliver even more STEAM programs to children and adults at libraries, schools, parks, senior centers, community events, and more.
Expand Career Training & Counseling The Library will continue to offer high quality resources for workforce development, including courses on popular career topics through lynda.com, Universal Class, and Gale Courses, and résumé review and interview preparation assistance from qualified experts through Brainfuse. Adult learners can earn an accredited high school diploma and career certificate through the Career Online High School program. Currently, 106 students have graduated and more than 239 are enrolled in the program.
Life Skills Programs for Teens The Adult 101: Life Skills Bootcamp for Teens pilot program was expanded to all community libraries. This program offers classes on a variety of “adulting” topics, such as Etiquette and Financial Savvy. Community libraries have also offered workshops to help children and parents combat bullying and avoid abduction and human trafficking.
Market College Prep Classes Libraries throughout our system routinely offer SAT/ACT test prep classes. Additionally, our online service, tutor.com, has test prep programs, which students can access in the library from home for free. The Library will be looking at ways to further expand its marketing efforts around these available services, so more people are aware of these offerings. The Library also consistently purchases test preparation books for the SAT, ACT, and AP Tests.
Increase Program Frequency For All Ages The Library has launched a program planning tool to assist libraries with assessing programming needs in each community, which will help prioritize program selections. The Library will continue to expand its current programming with particular attention to special needs, business, and cross-generational offerings.
Develop Reading Habits with Book Clubs & Summer Reading The Library offers annual Summer Reading and Discovery Programs for children, teens and adults, book club kits for librarians to borrow and use with youth, regular book club programs held in Probation camps, and program support resources for staff such as storytime kits and resources for celebrating books and reading.
Foreign Language Classes The Library will continue to support and expand the promotion of online language learning through its high-quality Mango Languages program; it will explore offering in-person language instruction as part of TALL (Teen & Adult Learning Labs), currently in development.
2nd Quarter 2017 3rd Quarter 2017 4th Quarter 2017 1st Quarter 2018 2nd Quarter 2018 3rd Quarter 2018 4th Quarter 2018 1st Quarter 2019 2nd Quarter 2019 3rd Quarter 2019 4th Quarter 2019
Update computing technology – computers, laptopsThe Library continually works to keep our computer technology and programs updated. About a quarter of libraries offer laptop check-out for in-house use. Through a grant from the State of California, the Library plans to connect every location to a high-capacity network that will dramatically increase internet speed and connectivity.
Wi-Fi – Access and PrintingCustomers can now connect and print wirelessly with any mobile device.
Tablet/Kindle Accessibility for patrons & homebound seniorsPatrons can check-out a Kindle Paperwhite, preloaded with an expert-selected, genre specific collection, at 31 community libraries. The Library is continuing to offer Bring Learning Home, which provides iPads for home access to the early learning program ABC Mouse. Several libraries also have early learning tablets available for customers to use in the library.
Interactive Live-Streaming of EventsThe Library is currently piloting videoconferencing technology that can be deployed remotely to any of our libraries. This technology will enable the library to livestream events to multiple locations and increase access to programming.
New Library WebsiteThe new and revamped Library Website was launched in Summer 2018 and improves the overall user experience as well as ADA accessibility.
Digitization of Local Materials – NewspapersThe Library has completed an inventory of all local newspapers housed in collection and is currently evaluating and identifying titles for digitization based on uniqueness, completeness of holdings, and copyright. In 2019, the Library will begin work on identifying funds to either purchase necessary equipment to complete digitization in-house, or send materials to third-party vendors for digitization.
Update Library Mobile AppThe Library has updated the mobile app and installed new 2D barcode scanner devices so that digital barcodes on smartphones can be read at self-service kiosks and staff service desks.
2nd Quarter 2017 3rd Quarter 2017 4th Quarter 2017 1st Quarter 2018 2nd Quarter 2018 3rd Quarter 2018 4th Quarter 2018 1st Quarter 2019 2nd Quarter 2019 3rd Quarter 2019 4th Quarter 2019
Hybrid Learning SettingsThe Library is currently piloting videoconferencing technology that can be deployed remotely to any of our libraries. This technology will enable the library to livestream events to multiple locations and increase access to programming.
More SpaceThe Library is sensitive to the needs of the diverse demographic it serves and strives to create a welcoming environment for all customers. A review of facility space, with special consideration to noise, is conducted annually. With Library programming being the priority, space modifications will be addressed based on need, available funding, and feasibility.
Modernize FacilitiesThe Library remains committed to modernization. In 2018-19, seven communities’ libraries reopened in modernized buildings, either newly constructed or renovated. Plans are in place for other locations to become modernized and accessible based on needs and available funding. In 2019-20, the Library expects at least 7 additional locations will open in new or renovated facilities. Many of these facilities will include self-check machines, laptop kiosks, additional electronic device and car charging stations, and community rooms with state-of-the-art audiovisual systems.
Safety – Better security, address vandalismThe Library has increased its security coverage at strategic locations in conjunction with the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department. This included additional patrols to deter vandalism and other criminal activity. Graffiti abatement is performed on an ongoing basis. New LED outdoor lighting is being installed in several libraries to better illuminate parking lots and outdoor areas. The Library will continue to assess and address safety concerns at all of its locations.
More ParkingFor new constructions, the Library determines parking based on the size of the library structure. The Library’s ability to expand parking at existing locations is limited and will be addressed based on available funding and as space permits.
Expand Battery Recycling21 designated library locations currently support the Household Battery Recycling Program.
Easy Access for Differently-abledThe Library has made efforts to remove barriers for the differently-abled at several facilities by installing ramps, sliding glass doors, and ADA accessible restrooms. The Library continues to work on providing better access in our other facilities based on urgency and available funding.
More BudgetThe Library continues to explore long-term strategies to ensure adequate funding for current and future programming. This includes the successful pursuit of grants for special projects and partnerships with other County departments, such as Probation and Workforce Development, Aging and Community Services (WDACS). In addition, the Library Foundation has hired an Executive Director to boost fundraising efforts in the private sector.
2nd Quarter 2017 3rd Quarter 2017 4th Quarter 2017 1st Quarter 2018 2nd Quarter 2018 3rd Quarter 2018 4th Quarter 2018 1st Quarter 2019 2nd Quarter 2019 3rd Quarter 2019 4th Quarter 2019
Community Spaces, Social Engagement, Meeting Place84 libraries include Family Place areas to support early literacy and foster parent/child engagement. In addition, several libraries will be updating their teen spaces. The Library will continue to serve as an important community space and will explore ways to increase access of meeting spaces for community groups. Many recently renovated or newly constructed libraries feature technology enhanced meeting rooms, designated study spaces, and reconfigurable furniture to accommodate various functions.
Expanding Arts, Music and CraftsThe Library has and will continue to offer and explore ways to expand its arts programming. Currently, the Library is incorporating artwork into new and refurbished locations, providing workshops for youth and adults, and exploring partnerships to provide additional arts education and programming. The Library has partnered with the Los Angeles County Arts Commission to install civic art in all remodeled and newly constructed libraries and to offer free concerts in various community libraries across the County.
Expanding Cultural ProgramsThe Library launched a program planning tool to assist libraries with assessing programming needs in each community, helping to expand the Library’s offerings of cultural programs and enhance the offerings of our four Cultural Resource Centers. The Library also developed additional programs to celebrate the various heritage months. In addition, the Library recently introduced an Artist-in-Residence (AiR) program, which will provide cultural art workshops at five library locations in Spring 2019.
Expanding Homebound ServicesThe Library has expanded the promotion of its Books-by-Mail service to include homebound customers and will explore other ways of serving this community. Manual processing of material requests is now automated and will include a profile for changing customer service needs.
Career FairsThe Library continues to partner with Board Offices, other County Departments, and community-based organizations to participate in career fairs. The Library is currently developing specific career fair outreach tools.
2nd Quarter 2017 3rd Quarter 2017 4th Quarter 2017 1st Quarter 2018 2nd Quarter 2018 3rd Quarter 2018 4th Quarter 2018 1st Quarter 2019 2nd Quarter 2019 3rd Quarter 2019 4th Quarter 2019
Expanded Library HoursTo eliminate barriers to library use and increase access to resources and services, the Library increased annual open hours by over 15,000, or about 8%. Through more efficient staffing models, the Library was able to expand service hours without increasing operating costs.
Resources for HomelessIn partnership with the Department of Mental Health and in conjunction with the LA County Homeless Initiative, the Library launched a program called “The Source” at Lancaster, Norwalk, San Fernando, and Willowbrook Libraries. The Source enables youth, adults, and families to meet with social workers, clinicians, and representatives from other relevant agencies in a one-stop shop for housing assistance. In addition, the Library is currently deploying 8 social workers to select community libraries to provide direct assistance.
Expand Utilization of PartnershipsThe Library continues to expand partnerships with other Los Angeles County Departments, nonprofits, and corporate entities to provide relevant and enhanced services to customers. Currently, the Library collaborates with several County departments: Probation (juvenile detention libraries and book clubs), Consumer and Business Affairs (Small Business Saturdays), Public Health (Flu Shot Clinics), Parks and Recreation (Lunch at the Library), LA County Registrar-Recorder (Vote Centers), Metro (TAP Cards), and Mental Health (book kiosks).
Senior Friendly Environment and ServicesThrough Library’s iCount Initiative, which ensures that libraries make a conscious effort in designing services and programs that address the needs of the diverse community it serves, many libraries will be adding programs for older adults in 2019. The Library launched the Reading STARS tutoring program, in which older adults tutor and mentor students in grades K-3. In addition, the Library is serving on the Countywide Purposeful Aging Committee to increase services to seniors, and will be participating in a program called Aging Masterfully in Fall 2019. The Library is also piloting book kiosks in 2 senior housing facilities and 1 Transition Age Youth facility. Kiosks will house small browsing collections and requested items, along with WiFi access. Librarians visit the facilities regularly to provide targeted programming.
Promote Volunteer OpportunitiesThe Library developed targeted volunteer opportunities as part of the Reading STARS tutoring project, piloted at 5 library locations. Older adult volunteer tutors were recruited using a variety of mediums: PSA announcements on radio, online registration using Volunteer Match, and promotional outreach to the communities’ senior centers. The Library increased the visibility of ongoing volunteer opportunities by creating Volunteer Match profiles for our 2 “Veterans Connect @ The Library Resource Center” locations. In addition, the Library directly informed patrons on how to volunteer via an end-of-year customer email on “3 Ways to Support Your Library”.
Expand & Refresh CollectionThe Library added a new streaming video service, Kanopy, that added over 30,000 films to the collection. Thanks to received grant funding, the Library also expanded our holdings in both print and digital for STEAM-related, Parenting, Children’s and Teen materials, and continues to expand the Overdrive eBook and eAudio collections each year. Additional funding has allowed the Library to continue to fill the backlist on the Overdrive eBook and eAudio platform, and give each community library additional funds to purchase replacement copies of high-demand, well-used books and materials.
Diverse StaffThe Library remains ever vigilant in efforts to recruit staff of all levels from all backgrounds. The Library staff is and should be a reflection of the richly diverse communities of Los Angeles County.
Remove Language BarrierThe Library will continue to support its Leamos Spanish language program and is exploring the development of 2 Teen & Adults Learning Lab (TALL) locations, to offer classroom and small-group instruction for adult literacy and ESL. The Library will continue to offer conversation clubs and other programs to support English language learners.
Better SignageEvery effort will be made to use existing funding for refreshes with an emphasis on appropriate signage. Renovated and newly constructed libraries undergo improvements to interior and exterior signage, and the Library continues to improve signage at other locations on an ongoing basis.
Checkable Book BagsThe Library held a giveaway of newly branded, reusable book bags in Summer 2018.
Simple Return ProceduresThe Library will develop a customer feedback survey to determine where service improvements are needed. The Library has installed 3 book kiosks in senior housing and transition age youth facilities, and expanded our Books-by-Mail program.
Reading RecommendationsThe Library expanded it’s offering of booklists on the website to include New and Upcoming Children’s Books and sends out a monthly themed booklist, specially curated for the Library Newsletter. The Library continues to work on implementing reading recommendations through the Library’s self-check kiosks.
Uniform for StaffThe Library respects the individualism of each of our employees. However, we recognize the importance of customers being easily able to distinguish employees when visiting the library. Therefore, all on-duty employees display visible identification, via newly branded badges or lanyards.

*Based on feedback received from September 2016 to November 2016

Your Voice, Your Library, Your Community

In an endeavor to understand the many communities that make up Los Angeles County, our director Skye Patrick decided to visit the libraries directly and host open and honest discussions with customers and stakeholders. We received a lot of feedback through the town-hall style meetings, through our online feedback forms and through the feedback boards posted at local libraries. Listed below are the action items we have identified based on the feedback received through the community visioning sessions.

2017 Action Items Based on Community Visioning Session Feedback*

Executed

Work in Progress

Planned or Phased Implementation

Education

Expanded Literacy Programming

The Library is in the process of implementing mobile literacy services and the addition of Family Place libraries. The Library will also continue to support its Spanish language literacy program and develop two Teen & Adult Literacy Lab (TALL) locations which will offer classroom and small group instruction for adult literacy and ESL

Establish a Mentoring & Tutoring

The Library will work with other County departments as partners to develop an in-person, intergenerational mentoring and tutoring program. The Library will continue to support its online Live Homework Help program, which offers free one-on-one tutoring, homework help, and workforce development with professional experts in the field

Expand School Partnerships

The Library has committed to be part of the White House ConnectED Library Challenge and through this effort will be reaching out to schools to ensure youth receive library cards and knowledge of the resources available to them at County public libraries.

STEAM Programs

In addition to the hundreds of STEAM programs hosted at libraries each year, the Library was just awarded $80,000 from Southern California Edison to implement even more programs. The Library is having employees trained to conduct STEAM programs and education for youth in a self-sufficient and sustainable manner.

Expand Career Training & Counseling

The Library will continue to offer high quality resources for workforce development, including courses on popular career topics through Lynda.com, Universal Class, and Gale Courses, and resume review and interview preparation assistance from qualified experts through tutor.com. Adult learners can earn an accredited high school diploma and career certificate through the Library Career Online High School program. The Library is currently seeking out funding to expand this program to more participants.

Life Skills Programs for Teens

The Library received a $75,000 grant two years ago to implement a life skills program for teens called Adult 101. We have implemented the program and are working to expand its reach. In addition, the Library offers classes in personal safety and bullying prevention.

Market College Prep Classes

Libraries throughout our system routinely offer SAT/ACT test prep classes. Additionally, our online service, tutor.com, also has test prep programs, which students can access in the library or from home for free. The Library will be looking at ways to expand its marketing efforts around these available services so more people are aware of the offerings. It will also explore adding additional in-person workshops and trainings.

Education on Technology – Library Website Demo

The Library is currently revamping its website. When complete, the Library will develop a demo video to educate customers on how to navigate the new website and access information.

Increase Program Frequency For All Ages

The Library is launching a program planning tool to assist libraries with assessing programming needs in each community, which will help prioritize program offerings. The Library will continue to expand its current offering of programs, with particular attention to customers with special needs, the business community, and cross generational offerings.

Develop Reading Habits with Book Clubs & Summer Reading

Develop Reading Habits with Book Clubs & Summer Reading” alt=”The Library offers an annual summer reading program, book club kits for librarians to borrow and use with youth, regular book club programs held in Probation camps, and program support resources for staff such as storytime kits and book party kits.

Foreign Language Classes

The Library will continue to support and expand the promotion of online language learning through its high-quality Mango and PowerSpeak programs; it will explore offering in-person language instruction as a part of the offerings of the TALL (Teen & Adult Literacy Labs) in development.

Digital Library

Update computing technology – computers, laptops

The Library continually works to keep our computer technology and programs updated and has location-based rollouts planned for the next several months.

Wi-Fi – Access and Printing

The Library has a planned rollout of Wi-Fi access and printing at all library locations.

Tablet/Kindle Accessibility for patrons & homebound seniors

Home access for an early learning program called ABC Mouse will be launched in March. Several libraries will also have early learning tablets available for customers to use in the library.

Interactive Live-Streaming of Events

The Library is working on a videoconferencing solution that can be deployed remotely to any of our libraries.

New Library Website

The Library will be revamping its website as well as improving ADA accessibility.

Digitization of Local Materials – Newspapers

In 2017, the Library will complete an inventory of all local newspapers housed in collection. Potential digitization projects will be evaluated based on copyright holder and completeness of holdings. In 2018, the Library will begin work on identifying funds to either purchase necessary equipment to complete digitization in-house, or send materials to third-party vendors for digitization.

Update Library Mobile App

Update the app to allow electronic library card/bar code (similar to CVS app). The Library is installing new 2D barcode scanner devices that can read smart phones at our self-service kiosks and staff service desks.

Building & Facilities

Hybrid Learning Settings

The Library is working on acquiring video conferencing capabilities to make in-person, live-streamed, and web learning possible.

More Space

The Library is sensitive to the needs of the diverse demographic it serves and strives to create a welcoming environment for all customers. With Library programming being the priority, space modifications will be addressed based on need, available funding, and as space permits. Currently, the Library has four locations undergoing renovations that will receive quiet/study rooms at completion.

Modernize Facilities

Modernization has been taking place at recent library openings and refurbishments; plans are being put into place for other locations to become modernized and accessible based on needs and available funding. Currently, seven locations are undergoing renovations to modernize the facility and, where able, provide more space

Safety – Better security, address vandalism

The Library has recently increased its security coverage at specific locations through the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department. Additionally, Safety Assessments are being performed and will be ongoing for the next 1-2 years. Graffiti abatement is performed on an ongoing basis and options are being explored to feasibly decrease this type of vandalism. New lighting is also being installed to brighten up facilities.

More Parking

For new constructions, the Library determines parking based on the size of the library structure. The Library’s ability to expand in existing locations is limited and will be addressed based on available funding and as space permits. There are currently three projects taking place that, by completion, will increase available parking at the project locations.

Expand Battery Recycling

There are currently 21 designated library facilities supporting the Household Battery Recycling Program administered through Los Angeles County Public Works. A rollout of larger replacement containers in existing locations will be taking place this summer. The Library will discuss with Public Works the possibility of expanding the program to more of our locations.

Easy Access for Differently-abled

The Library has made efforts to remove barriers for the differently-abled at several facilities by installing sliding glass doors, providing ADA accessible restrooms, and installing ramps. The Library continues to work on providing better access in our other facilities based on urgency and available funding. Currently, nine locations are undergoing renovations to provide ADA compliant restrooms, pathways, and access.

More Budget

The Public Library continues to explore long-term strategies to ensure adequate funding for current and future programming, including the pursuit of grant funds for mobile services.

Creativity

Community Spaces, Social Engagement, Meeting Place

By the end of this year, all libraries will have Family Place areas for parents and young children to use and support parent/child engagement. In addition, several libraries will be updating their teen spaces. The Library will continue to serve as an important community space and will explore ways to increase access of meeting spaces for community groups.

Expanding Arts, Music and Crafts

The Library will continue to offer and explore ways to expand its programming related to the arts. Currently, the Library is incorporating artwork into new and refurbished locations, providing workshops for youth and adults, and exploring partnerships to provide additional arts education and programming.

Expanding Cultural Programs

The Library is launching a program planning tool to assist libraries with assessing programming needs in each community, helping to expand the Library’s offerings of cultural programs and enhance the offerings of our four Cultural Resource Centers.

Expanding Homebound Services

The Library will expand the promotion of its Books by Mail service for homebound customers and will explore other ways of serving this community.

Career Fairs

The Library will explore partnering with other County Departments and community nonprofits to host career fairs; it will continue its participation in Career Fairs hosted by other agencies.

Community

Expanded Library Hours

The Library is currently working to expand library days and hours of service for a majority of its locations.

Resources for Homeless

In collaboration with Los Angeles County’s Homeless Initiative, the Library will provide resources and information on services for the homeless, including youth outreach services with the County’s Department of Mental Health.

Expand Utilization of Partnerships

The Library will expand partnerships with other Los Angeles County departments, non-profits, and corporate entities to provide relevant and enhanced services to customers.

Expanded Literacy Programming

The Library is in the process of implementing mobile literacy services and the addition of Family Place libraries. The Library will also continue to support its Spanish language literacy program and develop two Teen & Adult Literacy Lab (TALL) locations which will offer classroom and small group instruction for adult literacy and ESL

Senior Friendly Environment and Services

In collaboration with AARP and Workforce Development and Community Services, the Library will be training senior citizens to tutor school aged children and will mentor young adults to be their reading buddies. The young adults will be trained to teach seniors how to use their digital devices. In addition, the Library is serving on a county wide committee called Purposeful Aging to collaborate with other County Departments to increase services to seniors.

Promote Volunteer Opportunities

The Library will increase the visibility of volunteer opportunities, especially opportunities specific to certain library locations, as well as inform patrons on how to apply to volunteer.

Expand & Refresh Collection

The Library will begin assessing allocation for replacement/refresh needs at the libraries. Then, the Library will implement a plan to streamline the process for libraries to easily identify potential replacement candidates in their collections.

Diverse Staff

TThe Library will look at the possibility of expanding recruiting efforts to onboard staff at all levels and from all backgrounds.

Remove Language Barrier

The Library will also continue to support its Leamos Spanish language literacy program and develop two Teen & Adult Literacy Lab (TALL) locations which will offer classroom and small group instruction for adult literacy and ESL. The Library will continue to offer conversation clubs and other programs to support English language learners.

Better Signage

Every effort will be made to use existing funding for refreshes and emphasis will be given to ensure signage is appropriate. Currently, five locations are undergoing improvements to exterior signage.

Checkable Book Bags

The Library is currently researching feasible options for bags patrons may use when checking out library materials.

Simple Return Procedures

The Library will develop a customer feedback survey to determine where service improvements are needed. The Library is also exploring options to install book kiosks in particular locations and expand our books-by-mail program.

Reading Recommendations

The ability to obtain recommendations currently exists on the Overdrive (eBook, eAudio) platform, as well as in our online patron catalog through our NoveList service. The Library is also exploring the possibility of implementing recommendations through our self-checkout kiosks.

*Based on feedback received from September 2016 to November 2016

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