Library users and others frequently have questions about how things happen at the library. For those who are wondering how libraries work, here is some insider information.
• With so many fantastic books, magazines, DVDs, CDs and other items available, how do libraries decide what to buy?
All libraries have policies, set by the board, that are centered around quality and community interests being represented. These guide the staff in selecting items based on reviews read and recommendations made by library users.
• How does the library keep track of what it owns and where to find it?
All books, media and other materials owned by the library have a bar code that coordinates with a record in a computer database. When items are checked out, the barcodes are matched to the library card barcode of the person checking them out.
In this way, the library knows who has what. Washington Library will soon have an RFID system that will allow patrons to check out even more easily.
The library is arranged by the Dewey Decimal system, which organizes items about the same topic together.
• Who pays for the library?
You do. In Illinois, public libraries are supported by property taxes.
• There’s a book I’d like that our library doesn’t own. Can they get it for me?
When using the library’s catalog, either online or in the library, you can look at items in the Washington District Library or any library in Central Illinois. If you see something you’d like, you can place a hold on the item and have it sent to a library of your choice to pick up.
All you need to do is enter your library card number and password. If you don’t know your password, contact the library. If the item is not in the catalog, contact the library for help. The catalog is on the library Web site, which is www.washington.lib.il.us.
• Who really makes the decisions about the library? For example, who decides if the library is open on Sundays?
People in Washington Township are elected to serve as public library trustees. These are the folks who make the policies, including when the library will be open. The next election for library trustees will be April 7.
Filing information and petitions are available for anyone wishing to run for the office of Washington District Library trustee. Call the Washington Library, 444-2241, or stop by for more information.
Pam Tomka
Library director
Washington
