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KCLS Strategies for Future Services
Redefining delivery of library service in 2011 and beyond.
Rapid changes in technology. Shifting community demographics.Changing patron needs and expectations. Fiscal constraints.
How do libraries keep pace?
By envisioning the future, and mapping out strategies to be ready when it arrives. The challenges—and the solutions—reach far beyond KCLS. Nationwide, library leaders continually focus on keeping libraries responsive and relevant, regularly implementing new service solutions to meet changing community needs. While not the first, KCLS is among a handful of libraries that are evolving the way they deliver service.
Our preparation began in 2006 with the initiation of the Future Services Strategy (FSS) project, a two-year collaborative effort of KCLS staff across the organization. (See timeline for details.)
As staff conducted its research, it became clear that changing patterns and expectations in information-seeking required new approaches to the ways libraries make information available. It was no longer enough to be open when patrons came to the library: KCLS also needed to reach out effectively across the barriers of time and place. While welcoming, well-stocked and comfortable libraries would always be essential in the heart of each community, library services also must be available to our patrons online and beyond library walls.
To achieve this new vision of universally accessible service within long-term fiscal constraints, proactive changes in operations and staffing were needed to support a more dynamic, flexible approach in meeting the needs of each community we serve.
View videos about Future Services Staffing here: (May require QuickTime or Windows Media Player)
These changes are now underway.
KCLS, in partnership with our labor unions, has developed the Future Staffing Model (FSM) – resulting in a new service infrastructure of staff, facilities, and technologies that will enable us to best respond to the changing needs in our communities while also staying within existing financial parameters. We believe this new approach will more effectively serve patrons in the libraries, online, and out in the community by making the best use of all of our resources to provide the services and support patrons need, available when and where they want them.
In early 2011, we began testing this new approach via a Pilot Project in two library groups: the Bothell, Kenmore and Kingsgate Libraries; and the Federal Way 320th, Federal Way and Vashon Libraries. These “real world” tests of our strategies and staffing model are providing essential feedback so we can make any necessary adjustments before implementing the new model System-wide.
Patrons may notice some changes as we test this new approach. However, we intend for the transition to be as seamless as possible, providing uninterrupted, top quality service as well as timely access to our full range of resources and services. We also hope that patrons will appreciate the exciting new services being developed as part of the Pilot Project including:
Walk With Your Libraries - Download an e-book from the library and take it with you on your next journey for fun or fitness. Plot your route with our new interactive neighborhood maps and use your personalized KCLS Walking Log to track your progress. Submit reviews on what you're reading for a chance to win quarterly prizes!
Guys Read - join this high-energy reading group for 5th and 6th grade boys at the Bothell Library. Led by male high school and junior high volunteers, Guys Read is designed to help boys become self-motivated, lifelong readers in a peer/mentor environment where reading is considered an active, exciting adventure!
Flavors of the World - on August 20th, visit the Federal Way Library as it transforms into an international fairground celebrating the music, food and folklore of the many vibrant cultures that call Federal Way, home.
If you have questions about the new Future Services Strategy or the Pilot Project, please contact Chris at 425.369.3378 or email at futureservices@kcls.org