As many of you have already seen, Lafourche Parish Public Library was chosen as the Louisiana Library of the Year for 2016. We are so excited to be able to spread this amazing news to our Parish. This award truly means the world to us, and I wanted to take a few minutes to share some of the questions that I have been asked recently about the award.
What are the qualifications to become Library of the Year?
To be chosen as the Library of the Year, a library had to show significant growth in a two-year period. The committee that chose the winner noted this about the Lafourche Library system: "The Modisette Award for Public Library service is given biannually, if merited, to ‘reward and encourage the improvement of public library service.’ This year’s recipient is an assemblage of the best aspects of library service. From the community surveys to the staff outreach, unifying goals and tireless efforts have brought Lafourche Parish Libraries to their current and ongoing success. Upon reviewing their application packet, the award panel noted the care put into their planning and the implicit possibilities for the system’s future. Traditionally, this award has been given to a library system that had recently completed a physical building project. However, this year’s recipient has focused on a different type of building, a solid foundation of services, community interaction, and staff investment. As one of our award panelists succinctly noted, ‘Lafourche is representative of successful change and reinvigoration.’”
Was it an application process?
Yes, it was an application process that involves a through questionnaire with both written explanation and statistical data to back the answers given. Additionally, a scrapbook had to be created to show samples of the type of programs and examples of the work being accomplished within the library system.
How do you think the library has changed most drastically in the last couple of years?
The most drastic changes in the last couple of years have been the technology upgrades to our branches, as well as the number of programs that we offer at all 9 branches. Technology upgrades include: iPads in our branches, hand-held learning devices for checkout for all ages (Launchpads), Xbox gaming systems to get our reluctant readers involved, Mac computers, updated PC computers, and Nooks for checkout—just to name just a few. Programs have increased 67% in last few years, offering a variety of hobby and educational workshops. See our branch calendars for a more complete listing.
Lafourche Parish Library is Louisiana’s Library of the Year! Tell me what that means?
It means that we are growing and meeting the unique needs of our individual communities. It means that the trust the citizens of Lafourche have placed in us is well-founded and has been justified through this award. Additionally, it means we are on the right track and are a premier library system in the state.
What was your first reaction when you found out that Lafourche Parish had been named Library of the Year?
I was honestly speechless, which if you know me, is a big deal! I was excited for my staff, as it validates all of the hard work and commitment that they show every day. I was excited for our customers who are the ones who have told us what they needed from their library system and have made us a success! I was also excited for our Library Board of Control as they are always supportive of the goals and ideas that have brought us where we are today. But most of all I was thrilled for Lafourche Parish. Our library is another example of the amazing opportunities we have here, and we are proud to be able to contribute as a key organization in one of the most influential parishes in the state.
If you were to name one reason why you think Lafourche Parish is the Library of the Year, what would it be?
Our unending commitment to our customers and our communities and our willingness to evolve to meet their needs.
All of us here at LPPL want to thank our customers and the residents of Lafourche Parish. This award is not just because of you, but for you! Please continue to let us know what you want from your library system in the weeks and years to come. We will continue to change to meet your needs! Remember here at LPPL, we are More Than Books!