Thoughts from the County Librarian

Looking Back at 2019 and Forward to 2020: Thoughts from the County Librarian - Nancy Howe

A reflection on where we've been and where we're headed

There has been much to celebrate this year in library services, and much more to look forward to in the decade to come. The Library is so much more than a repository for books—we are a source for creative inspiration, empower you with tools for lifelong learning, and a connection point to your community. We value our patrons and strive to provide you with the materials, programs, services and staff support you need to enjoy all the Library has to offer. Some of the highlights from this past year included:

  • Adding Sunday hours at Campbell, Gilroy and Morgan Hill for all libraries to offer service 7 days per week
  • Expanding passport services to a third location--the Los Altos Library
  • Hosting the very first South County Mini Maker Faire at the Gilroy Library
  • Offering early learning readiness centers at the Gilroy and Morgan Hill libraries
  • Hosting our first ever Teen Battle of the Bands at the Milpitas Library
  • Food for Fines generated 32,280 pounds in food donations, providing almost 27,000 meals
  • Engaging our communities to read over 255,000 books over the summer
  • Offering the first annual Distinguished Author Series
  • Upgraded and expanded available seating at the Cupertino, Milpitas and Saratoga libraries
  • Creating over 90,000 student eAccounts providing every student from every public school within our Library District with access to our full online library

It was a busy, but fulfilling year!

Looking ahead, we have multiple upgrades on the horizon for three of our libraries--Morgan Hill, Cupertino and Campbell. The Morgan Hill Library expansion is already underway with a 2,500 square foot addition that will expand the children’s area and add a second community room to the library. The City of Cupertino has approved adding a two-floor addition to the Cupertino Library, providing a dedicated Community Room, expanding the children’s area and more. And the City of Campbell is moving forward with their planning for voter approved Measure O to build a new Campbell Police Station and fully renovated Campbell Library.

We are starting the New Year out with the full public launch of our brand new website! We have other significant initiatives starting in 2020, including offering homework help at the library, having laptops available for loan in each of our libraries, new programs to support family literacy, and for our diverse communities in the Silicon Valley, we’re expanding our ESL programs to all of our libraries with programs targeting different needs. Of course, our librarians are always hard at work to create programs and provide the right materials our patrons will enjoy.

On behalf of the Santa Clara County Library District, we wish you and yours Happy Holidays and hope to see you at one of our libraries, bookmobile stops, or visiting us on our new website!

~ Nancy Howe, Santa Clara County Librarian
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