Library

Department Description

Boise Public Library offers a variety of resources and services to local citizens via two physical locations, a bookmobile and the library web site. The future for the library focuses on developing, designing, constructing and opening four branch libraries in the city as well as analyzing the feasibility of a new main library. Services available to the citizens of Boise include:
 

• Checking out books, CDs, videos, DVDs, and audio books
• Reading hundreds of newspapers and magazines
• Attending youth and teen programs: story times, puppet shows and more
• Arranging for youth or adult group or class visits
• Calling the Reference Desk for information and research assistance
• Using one of 34 Internet computers to type a paper, search the web or check e-mail
• Taking a free computer class in the Gates Computer Lab
• Checking the web catalog to find new titles or to reserve and renew books
• Using the AnswerXpress.com to get real time answers and assistance 24/7
• Searching databases to find full text magazine or newspaper articles about health, business and general interest topics, locate auto repair information, take practice tests online, or locate company and investment information
   

Mission Statement
To assist members of the community in educating themselves and enhancing their personal, business, and social well-being through the use of library resources and services.
 

Strengths

• Experienced, service-oriented staff focused on service improvement
• The main library is located in a quality, central location
• The collection is balanced, new electronic materials are being included
• The Friends of the Boise Public Library are a vital and dynamic fundraising arm
• Library Board members work well together
• The library uses technology and the Internet to help citizens access information
• The Gates Lab, website branch, weekend and evening hours have helped improve customer service and satisfaction
   

Weaknesses

• Some public services may be understaffed and may need additional training for process improvements, technology, etc.
• The collection is small and needs additional funding to bring it up to national standards
• The main library is the major facility. More space is needed for the public, additional parking, additional computers, and additional reading space. Branch facilities are needed to improve access.
• Organizational structure needs to be changed to reflect new delivery models. Library Board needs to be more visible
• Marketing and outreach need improved
• Need to spread the library's vision through the community and through the staff
• Fiscal resources need improved and expanded
  
  

Opportunities

• Maintain support from the Mayor and the City Council
• Investigate the possibility of forming a library district to improve funding
• Develop more partnerships with other city departments, private, and public agencies
• Boise's economy provides expanded opportunites to seek additional funding and donations
• The library's role as a "gathering place" in an increasingly diverse community will become more important and crucial to the City
• Emerging technologies provide additional capabilities to meet information needs of the community and will improve access to information for all citizens
  
  

Threats

• Property tax limitations and competition for funds
• Perceived irrelevance of the library to people's lives
• Federal laws affecting library policies and budgets
• Impression that the Internet takes the place of libraries
• Cost of maintaining and enhancing existing and emerging technologies; staying ahead of the curve and meeting customer expectations