At its July meeting, the Pierce County Library System Board of Trustees will discuss the 2014 midyear budget adjustment, materials circulation changes, engagement in the maker movement, and more. The board meets from 3:30 to 6 p.m. on July 9 at the library’s Processing and Administrative Center, 3005 112th St. E., in Tacoma. The meeting is open to the public. Download the agenda.
2014 midyear budget adjustment
The library adjusts its budget at the midyear mark to ensure that spending is on track for the remainder of the year, make corrections and adjustments as needed, and begin planning for 2015. Due to additional revenue and lower expenditures, the library is eliminating the need to use cash reserves to balance the 2014 budget ($127,663). Net total sources of funding increased by $370,473. The capital improvement plan also was reviewed and revised.
Circulation changes: downloadables up, print and audio down
Changes from 2012 to 2013 show a 39 percent increase in circulation of downloadable e-books, audiobooks and music as well as a 7.9 percent decrease in circulation of print and audiovisual materials. Plans are in place to increase downloadable options and engage customers in providing feedback to improve collections. Managers continue to analyze usage patterns as they prepare to build the 2015 materials collection budget.
Library engages in maker movement
The maker movement or maker culture is having a complex social, technological and economic impact. Today’s tinkerers, DIYers, techies and dreamers are garnering the attention of educators, business and industry leaders. Making provides a certain freedom and excitement in people of all ages and backgrounds. And makers like to collaborate. Pierce County Library is diving into the maker movement by hosting Lakewood MakerFest on Aug. 9 at Pierce College and a DIY MakerFest in the near future in South Hill. Funding for these events comes from a $5,000 grant through the library’s 2013 National Medal for Museum and Library Service.
The library system has been serving people in Pierce County for 68 years.