Sarasota libraries cited as example of excellence by national publication | News

Sarasota County, Florida -- The Sarasota County Library System has announced it is receiving national recognition from the America Library Association's (ALA's) official publication, "Public Libraries," for a program that has resulted in increased availability of items in libraries where they are in demand, a higher potential for personal customer service and decreased cost.

Four years ago, the Sarasota County Library System changed how it keeps items on the shelves of its nine libraries. Previously, items borrowed from one library and returned to another were shipped back to the originating library. The change to a floating collection process resulted in returned items staying put in the library where they are returned.

The floating collection has been so successful that some library systems across the country have followed Sarasota County's lead and implemented the process. The Sarasota County Library System's floating collection is featured in the "Public Libraries" article written by Sarasota County Library Public Services Manager Andrea Ginsky.

"To be recognized by your peers is one of the highest honors we can receive," said Ginsky. "Our staff has successfully responded to every challenge with great teamwork and energy, resulting in improved efficiency and enhanced customer service."

Other recent highlights of the library system include the opening of the Osprey Library, a new Teen Center at Selby Library, the 50th anniversary of Elsie Quirk Library, approval of a new Gulf Gate Library and being selected as the 2012 Library of the Year by the Florida Library Association.

The article "Take the Plunge!" features success stories from five library systems in the United States and Canada that have implemented floating collections. "Public Libraries" is the official journal of the Public Library Association (PLA) and the only American Library Association journal devoted exclusively to public libraries. Each issue includes important industry news, PLA and ALA updates, and columns and feature articles that offer strategies and ideas for enhanced public library services.

For more information, contact the Sarasota County Call Center at 941-861-5000, or visit www.scgov.net. 

Release courtesy Sarasota County Government.