“Library System of Lancaster County opens new era with new board” reports:
“Lois Dostalik, president and chief executive officer of E4 Exchange, the consulting firm hired to plot the libraries’ future, told the group that moving forward will not be an easy or painless process, but she promised she and her partner would listen and — by contract with the county — would work quickly.
” ‘We love and believe in libraries, and, by gosh, we’re honest,’ she assured them.”
“That means taking an honest look at the realities facing libraries, Dostalik said.”
WATCHDOG: “By gosh”, we can make Dostalik’s job much easier. She and colleagues need only take a flight to Seattle, Washington and tour the King County libraries and meet with their leaders and staff. King County Library System claims to be the “best public library in the United States” and they likely are. Although centrally administered, advisory boards for each of the approximately 50 diversified libraries provide valuable information and guidance. This is approach needed here in Lancaster. If for no other reason (and there are many others), it will attract highly competent board members and executives who will able to better marshal resources and tackle major projects, such as the renovation and expansion of the Duke Street library.
A delegation from the Lancaster County Library (Duke Street) made that trip at private expense several years ago and were very impressed.
The following excerpt is from the King County web site which contains much useful information and merits at least a ten minute visit:
One System
The King County Library System operates as one where unity provides value. The system-wide approach to collections, technology, and general support of library operations frees the staff to concentrate on service, and results in buildings and collections that are maximized around the needs of patrons. This system-wide approach differentiates The King County Library System. It’s why KCLS is the best public library in the United States.
