October 15, 2007 NEWS: Brevard Libraries Demonstrate Positive R.O.I.
COCOA, Fla. - Brevard County libraries' return on investment is $4.74 for every taxpayer dollar spent, according to a recent survey commissioned by the State Library of Florida.According to the report, if there were no Brevard County Library Services, the total economic loss to users and the local economy is estimated to be $104.15 million.
It would cost public library users $50.29 million more to obtain needed information through alternative sources; library users would lose $30.69 million by not knowing where to go to obtain that information; library wages and salaries would be lost to the economy in the amount of $12.9 million; $0.15 million would be lost in services to other libraries; $0.62 million would be lost in purchases of good and services from non-library vendors; and $9.48 million would be lost to local shops, restaurants and other services used by patrons before and after library trips.
The value of library services was determined via surveys of in-person and remote-access patrons during the week of August 26 at six libraries: Palm Bay, West Melbourne, Suntree/Viera, Mims, Titusville, and Central Brevard.
Taxpayers contribute $21.96 million to Brevard public libraries through local, state and federal taxes.
Brevard County Libraries enables people of all ages to improve their quality of life by providing information and enrichment through traditional resources and new technology.
September 12, 2008 NEW LIBRARY COMPUTER SYSTEM ENHANCES FUNCTIONALI TY FOR PATRONS
BREVARD COUNTY, Fla. - The new automated library system installed in Brevard County libraries earlier this month is enhancing patrons' ability to find, evaluate and reserve books on-line and in librariesThe online catalog offers new and exciting capabilities for library users, with three different catalogs to browse: Discover, Classic, and Kids. When an item is searched, the system now has the ability to provide annotations, books excerpts, reviews, character information, and images of actual book covers.
"I love the new system," said patron Tracy Schlueb of Titusville. "Before, when I had something that I wanted to find a book about, I had to go to Amazon.com to get the description, then search the library system to find out whether they had the book. Now the information's all in one place. And when I reserve a book online, I can see what number I am in line, so I have an idea of how long I'll need to wait for it."
"This system is easier to use, and the screen is colorful and easy to read, not overwhelming or cluttered. And I love the Kids catalog. It recommends books based on type of book, like picture or chapter book, and then genre. This is great for kids who say they have trouble finding books they like."
"And I hear that I will be able to renew my books online, no matter which Brevard County library I checked them out from. This is great!"
Patrons are able to search, renew and reserve items at all Brevard County libraries via the www.mylibraryworld.com website.
The new integrated system, created by The Library Corporation, is Windows- and web-based, designed to easily manage library tasks, and create patron and staff efficiencies. It is funded through the federal E-Rate program for discounted telecommunications services and Florida State Aid to Libraries.