Effingham Public Library Circulates Over 237,000 Items; Sets New Record and 10th Straight Year of Growth

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Published on May 30 2017 1:42 pm
Last Updated on May 30 2017 1:42 pm
Written by Greg Sapp

The Effingham Public Library has completed its first full financial year at its new location with a record circulation number of over 237,000. This is the first time the library has circulated more than 200,000 items and marks a 19% increase on last year and the library’s 10th straight year of growth.

Circulation of physical books increased by 14%, while digital downloads increased by 10%. Other highlights included an increase in participation in adult programs by 26% to over 1,700, while nearly 7,000 children took part in events and reading programs. With computers now available on 2 floors, over 18,000 computer sessions were logged while library staff attended over 100 events in the community to introduce library services to a wider audience.

In September of 2016, with a grant from Better World Books, the Library created and launched the Book Box Vending Machine at the County Building in Effingham. Books in the vending machine are donated by the community to the library.  In the seven months to the end of the financial year, 2,560 books were dispatched free to the community. The library is investigating additional new locations for this service.

“What we are seeing with this increase is that the library is a vibrant and growing place that connects our citizens with the resources they need and want. We are excited to offer new programs and projects to the community to continue to spark ideas and new ways to explore life-long learning.” explained Amanda McKay, Library Director.

The Library’s normal hours are Monday to Thursday 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Library is closed on Sundays.

To contact the library with questions, call (217) 342-2464 or email info@effinghamlibrary.org.