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IMCPL Sets Record in Patron Visits and Circulation in 2006
March 13, 2007
In 2006, IMCPL emphasized storytime programs, materials and online resources for children of all ages and families
Over 5.43 million patrons visited the Indianapolis-Marion County Public Library in 2006, exceeding the previous record of over 5.42 million in 2005.
Service statistics from 2006 also indicated that nearly 13.8 million items were circulated throughout the Library system, another record which surpassed the 2005 total of 12.2 million.
These achievements reflect IMCPL's commitment to meet the 21st century information needs of local citizens while streamlining operations to maintain good stewardship over tax dollars.
The Library instituted a number of initiatives that enhanced services, including allowing patrons to check out their own materials by using new self-check technology. Eleven branch locations now offer self-check, which has the added benefit of allowing staff to better address other patron needs in the library.
Another new self-service feature, open holds shelves, allows patrons to personally access materials being held for them in the library.
IMCPL instituted a floating collection of materials in 2006, whereby items returned by a patron are shelved at the location of return. The practice revitalizes the collection of each branch and reduces staff time and workload to deliver materials to a home location.
A free 24-hour reference service, "Ask-a-Librarian Express," debuted on the Library's website, which allowed patrons to receive immediate answers to their questions. Over 4,100 students in grades 4 - 12 received help from qualified tutors through the Library's "Live Homework Help" online service, which is available in both English and Spanish.
In addition to new online services, IMCPL maintained its commitment to print and audiovisual materials by devoting nearly 20% of its operational expenditures to acquiring such materials. The Library's collection of nearly two million items features materials in 21 languages to enrich the lives of all citizens in the community.
Over 62% of the items circulated in 2006 were books. DVDs accounted for 21%, with audiobooks, music CDs and VHS cassettes making up 17%.
IMCPL is gearing up for the scheduled opening of the transformed Central Library in the fourth quarter of 2007. The 293-thousand-square-foot facility will be an information and technology-rich environment that features a new six-story addition and an atrium that connects the new addition to the historic Cret Building.
