The Wadleigh Memorial Library had its busiest year on record in 2010. The number of registered cardholders increased by 10% annually since 2007 and now totals almost 12,000. Library programs saw record attendance levels with nearly 18,000 people participating in 765 events. Circulation increased 7% from the previous year and 42% over the last 5 years. The library continues working to renovate and expand its facilities to meet the growing demand for its services.

1. Wadleigh Memorial Library2010: The busiest year on record @ your library

2. PeopleLibrary cards1000 new cardholders last yearRegistrations have increased an average of 10% each year since 2007Currently almost 12,000 registered cardholdersVisitsLibrary patrons made nearly 15,000 visits per month to their library.

3. PeopleStaff Retirements , New Hires, & Promotions

4. Library Page Anne Zahn retired after 11 yrs.

5. Arleen Levenson, Head of Circulation, retired after 13 yrs.

6. Heather Stearns & Kyle Scripter hired as Library Pages.

7. Mary Ann Shea promoted to Head of Circulation.

8. Board of Trustees

9. ChrisCostantino & Mary Burdett re-elected for 3 year terms.

10. Kim Paul appointed as Alternate.Checkouts (circulation)In 2007, our circulation topped 200k for the first time.3 years later, another record broken when we surpass 250k.Checked out 265,862 items in 2010—up 7% in 1 year.During the last 5 years, circulation increased 42%.

11. Checkouts (circulation)Children’s books up 5%Museum passes up 6%Audiobooks up 6%Videos up 10%Downloadable audiobooks & ebooks up 34%

12. ProgramsOverall, held fewer programs than 2009 but participation increased to record numbers. Nearly 18,000 attendees took part in 765 programs.Teen programming *did* increase to meet demand. Held 38% more programs; attendance increased 36% Programs included book launch parties & book-to-movie celebrations; teen craft series; Wii tournaments and “wireless” gaming (read: board games); book discussion groups; animanga clubIf you build it…they will come!

13. ProgramsOther programs included:Visit by NY Times bestselling author Lorna BarrettRegularly scheduled storytimes & baby lapsitsBook discussion groups for all ages Family activities such as Bedtime Bingo and Lego “block parties”Volunteer-led ESOL tutoringPAWS to ReadTown “Big Truck Day”

14. ServicesOver 25,000 logons to our pcs (includes partial year of wireless use statistics).Nearly 22,000 searches on reference databases.Over 10,000 reference questions answered.Meeting room reservations increased 17% to 424.Attendance at community group meetings increased 11% to 3,349 people.

15. The Wadleigh Steering Committee has met weekly since CIP committee moved our project to a 2014 vote.We’ve been working with the architects that won the AIA-NH design competition.Architects have submitted a proposal including a team of engineers and project manager. Steering Committee is reviewing the proposal and the suggested team.Facilities

16. At the conclusion of the process our plan is to present this year’s CIP with detailed architectural plans and an estimated cost. The goal is to hold our position for a 2014 vote. In addition, the committee has met with 4 fundraising consultants in anticipation that we will need to solicit private funding to supplement what the town will accept on a warrant article.Facilities

17. FacilitiesTo help improve safety & security, the library installed surveillance cameras in late 2010.With 15,000 visits a month, space remains a dire need. Space for…requested items until they’re picked upreturned items until they can be reshelvedmaterials purchased to meet the demandefficient work and traffic flowpeople of all ages to meet, study, work

18. In summaryLibrary staff has worked extremely hard to meet the increasing demand on library services. As citizens search out ways to make their dollars stretch, they’re rediscovering their library—some for the first time.

19. “Libraries are community treasure chests, loaded with a wealth of information available to everyone equally, and the key to that treasure chest is the library card. I have found the most valuable thing in my wallet is my library card.”--Former First Lady Laura Bush So what card is in your wallet?