Feature Stories |
State Librarian's ReportLibrary buildings in Ohio symbolize a remarkable journey through changes in library collections, services, and facilities. Our libraries have evolved from floating collections to permanent buildings with services that grow and change to meet the needs of their communities. I’ve had the pleasure of visiting over 100 libraries throughout our state including two, Gnadenhutten Public Library and Norwalk Public Library, featured in this issue. I always look forward to meeting with staff, touring the facilities, and being in the midst of Ohio’s library services. Some of my favorite areas in libraries are the children’s and teen spaces. These bright and colorful areas are so inviting with their displays, comfortable seating, and collections. I also enjoy touring reading rooms, computer labs, and spaces for community meetings.
Ohio libraries’ architecture and interior design are continuously changing to provide efficient space for technology, shared resources, multi-format collections, and earth friendly green buildings. In response to a growing interest, last year the State Library awarded IMLS LSTA ‘Trading Spaces’ grants to libraries to update their environments. Libraries used the grants to make them more modern and attractive, improve services, and create spaces devoted to the unique interests of teens. In this issue you will read about four libraries that worked with their communities to update aging buildings, design and build new buildings, and connect older and new buildings. The August issue of The News theme will be the history of the State Library and will feature the move to and renovation of our current building. Jo Budler |