Since our new library opened, use is up 20 to 189%, depending on what you’re counting.

In terms of items checked out, use of our new library increased 29% during February and March, our first two full months of operation, compared to the same months last year.

The biggest gains in book circulation were in teen books (+67%) and children’s (+35%). Having books attractively displayed face-out may have contributed to the increases, along with the nearly 40,000 shiny new items that have been added since the closing of the old library to help meet the expected demand.

Also impressive are measures such as the number of reference questions, up 86% in the children’s department and 73% for adults. Computer use in the adult and teen areas was up 115%, not including those who tapped into our Wi-Fi.

The number of visitors was up 20% to more than 1,900 people a day. Many of those were new patrons; new cards issued (including some at our Douglass Branch and Bookmobile) jumped 189 percent.

The new building’s state-of-the-art technology, with self-checkout stations and an automated check-in and sorting system, has been key to managing the growth, along with our dedicated staff.

Support from the Library Friends is ensuring that every first grade class in Champaign is able to travel to the library for a tour that includes crafts, stories, and a science lesson. Pictured here, students from Garden Hills end their visit with smiles, and, in the article above, St. John students learn about the self-checkout system.

The Friends generate funds to benefit the library through membership fees and their FriendShop used book store, open Sundays from 1:30 to 5:30 pm on the library’s lower level. The shop offers used books, movies, and music, most items for $1 or less. You’ll also find recent bestseller hardbacks from our rental collection for $6 each.

Library Trustee Bob Shierry has led the library’s building committee throughout planning and construction of our new library.

Describe the importance of public libraries.

The public library is like no other place in a community. It’s where you can obtain information, where you can read or borrow books, videos, CDs, or periodicals. It’s a place you can use computers, theirs or your own. You can study by yourself or with other in meeting rooms. The public library is available for anyone regardless of age, gender, race, or economic status.

Describe your background and what you bring to the board.

I am a graduate of the U of I with a B.S. degree in civil engineering. I worked for Northern Illinois Water Corporation part-time in high school and college, then full-time for a total of 46 years, ending up as president and general manager. I was recruited for trustee by two different Champaign mayors for my business background, my knowledge and experience in planning, design, and building of facilities, and my community interest.

Tell us a little bit about your family.

I have been married to Helen for almost 55 years. We have two children: Steve, who is married to Heidi, and Diane, married to Rob Adam. Helen worked over 30 years in libraries, including two public libraries, the U of I Engineering Library, and Robeson School Library. Her experience was a big help to me as a trustee and as chairman of the library building committee.

What have you read, watched, or listened to lately?

I am presently reading The Nine by Jeffrey Toobin and just completed Undaunted Courage by Stephen Ambrose. I enjoy reading John Grisham, Robert Ambrose, and David McCullough, and historical and religious books. On TV, I primarily watch crime programs such as CSI, the History and Discovery Channels, and British comedies on public television.

On April 15 this year, 23 community members were honored by the Champaign City Council, police, and firefighters. These individuals received the 2008 Heroes and Helping Hands Awards for providing emergency help to others in need and exceptional aid to the fire and police departments.

In recognition of their selfless acts and caring for others, the library has dedicated a book to each of these extraordinary citizens:

Randale Banks, Ellie Broyles, Rick Broyles, Tom Costello, Alexx Dahl, Tyler Foltz, Roy Frye, Mindy Haile, David Hudson, Michael Kean, Nick Laurent , George McCoppin, Renee Potter, Jason Scribner, Charles Seibert, Rick and Candy Severns, Adam Shanks, Dr. John Sims, Christine Sorenson, Nathan Tomlins, Joan Ziegler, and the Bravo 634th Brigade Support Battalion of the Illinois Army National Guard.

Thank you for making our community proud!

Nationally renowned music specialist Carole Peterson, dubbed the “Pied Piper of children’s music,” will lead a lively free workshop for parents, teachers, and caregivers working with children ages 2 to 6. Join us Saturday, May 10, from 1 to 3 pm. Learn not only how to put it together — with classroom management techniques to make highly active music fun and safe — but why kids need music for brain and motor development. Come away with songs and activities you can use right away — and your kids will love.

Registration is required; call 217/403-2030 by May 1.
This session is worth two continuing education credits.

Let us know so that our list stays current. Send a message with your name and new address to Donna Pittman at dpittman@champaign.org. Thanks!