Columbus-Lowndes Public Library System is among 12 library systems in the state recently named as Mississippi Library Stars for Fiscal Year 2017. The concept of Library Stars comes from the national professional magazine, Library Journal. The publication separates library systems into categories by expenditures they report on the annual Public Library Statistics report submitted to the Institute for Museum and Library Services. The star ratings are then calculated by comparing libraries’ in the following areas:
While Mississippi does not currently have any national Library Journal Library Stars, the Mississippi Library Commission has awarded Mississippi Library Stars to the best-scoring libraries in this state, recognizing the three highest-scoring library systems in each of four expenditure categories (with Level IV being the highest expenditure level).
Columbus-Lowndes Public Library System is recognized in Level III, along with Sunflower County Library System and Lincoln-Lawrence-Franklin Regional Library System.
“It’s based on annual statistics we have to turn in each year — how many people are coming through our doors, how many books are checked out within a year, how many people are logging on,” said Library Director Erin Busbea. “We see a lot of usage — not just in Columbus, but Caledonia, Crawford and Artesia.”
The numbers show the library is a valuable part of the community.
“People very much need the library as a resource for finding books for school, entertainment for their children or resources for an adult who needs to find a job, especially if you don’t have internet access at home,” said Busbea, citing a few examples of why patrons visit the library. “I think we’re one of the only free places in town that offers computers.”
Winning Star libraries will receive a certificate and a Mississippi Star Library star to feature on their website.
The Mississippi Library Commission supports innovative programs and initiatives to strengthen and enhance library services for all Mississippians. The agency is funded by the Mississippi Legislature, with additional funding provided through the Institute of Museum and Library Services under provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act, offering leadership in library services, advocacy and training for library professionals and paraprofessionals.
For more information about the Columbus-Lowndes Public Library System, call 662-329-5300. The main library is located at 314 Seventh St. N.
Jan Swoope is the Lifestyles Editor for The Commercial Dispatch.
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