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2012 - 2015 Strategic Plan Objectives

Objective Date Established Location Last Updated

Share your Story response time

Individuals that share a story either through the phone or online form will receive a response back thanking them for taking the time to share the story of how the library has made a difference within 48 hours. Those that make the commitment to be videotaped will be sent a small gift of appreciation.

2012/11/29 Development/Volunteer Services 2012/11/29

Literary Voices speaker and event

Work with the Literary Voices committee to identify an author that provides an enriching experience for a large group of people while raising awareness of the Library system and the benefits it provides to the community.

2012/11/29 Development/Volunteer Services 2012/11/29

Public Art at Warr Acres

Select a piece of public art for the Warr Acres Library that reflects the community and is inviting as your enter the Library.

2012/11/29 Development/Volunteer Services 2012/11/29

Identify and Implement a new Mission Statement for Volunteer Services

Create a mission statement for all volunteer interactions that is succinct, engaging and empowering.

2012/11/30 All Locations 2012/11/30

Volunteer Measuring Stick Survey Administered and focus begins for 2013

The Volunteer Measuring Stick Survey will be sent to all currently active volunteers to measure their level of engagement and fulfillment through their experience with the library system. Staff will be coached by the volunteer coordinator throughout the year to improve in each of the 12 areas the questions address.

2012/11/30 All Locations 2012/11/30

Monthly check in with SPOCs at each location

Volunteer Coordinator will check in by e-mail, over the phone or in person with each SPOC at least one time during the month to ensure all questions are answered, ideas are captured and relationships are strengthened. This will be an informal communication time.
Trainings for SPOCs will also be held as needed for networking, problem solving and empowerment.

2012/11/30 All Locations 2012/11/30

Create Summer Volunteer Video Training Scenarios

Training videos available on the web will be produced and made available for staff and teen volunteers to view prior to summer at the library. In addition to the information that needs to be conveyed through each customer interaction, each scenario will incorporate specific expectations of behavior that should be present. This tool will enable staff who supervise summer volunteers to have a point of reference for successful interactions and enhance the customer experience.

2012/11/30 All Locations 2012/11/30

Support MLS website

The Support MLS website provides up to date and easy to use information and links to connect the public to the Library Endowment Trust and Friends of the Library, as well as how to donate and volunteer.

2012/11/29 Development/Volunteer Services 2012/12/11

Programming

Will offer in FY 13-14:

  • 12 Play and Story Times (for ages—18 month-4 years);
  • 14 Story and Craft Times (for ages—3-6 years);
  • 6 Evening Story Times (for ages—3-8 years);
  • 2 series of 4 “1-2-3 Play with Me” Workshops (a.k.a. Family Place);
  • 8 programs for elementary school-aged children;
  • 4 workshops of “Music with Susan”.

In addition, Outreach will provide for a Spring Break program and 8 Neighborhood Arts Program presentations in the summer.

2012/10/01 Bethany Library 2012/12/11

Inviting Space

Increase awareness of the NW Library for its architecture design and functionality.

2012/12/04 Construction Management 2012/12/11

Staff Development

  • Provide ongoing training of staff as it comes available on current equipment, tools and procedures.
  • Ask all staff to request training as needed.
  • Arrange for the staff member to have time to attend the training.
  • Arrange in house training where possible.
  • Encourage staff members who want to increase their formal training outside of library hours to do so.
  • Add a training component into departmental meetings where staff members can share an article, a book review; a “best practice tip;” or another tool.
2012/10/01 Choctaw Library 2012/12/11

Ensure a Welcoming Experience - Staff

  • Customer service as a priority for all staff
2012/10/01 Downtown Library 2012/12/11

Atmosphere of Hospitality

  • Arrange public computer area and update furnishings.
  • Focus in-house training on providing exemplary customer service.
2012/10/01 Midwest City Library 2012/12/11

Customer Interactions

  • Consider opportunities for “teachable moments” on “How to get the most from your library” to be anytime customer will ask or listen.
  • Look for ways to increase individual staff awareness of the generational gaps in technology interfacing that exists to better serve each individual.
2012/10/01 Choctaw Library 2012/12/11

Celebrate BI's history

Provide activities to celebrate Belle Isle’s 50th anniversary in late September 2013.

2012/10/01 Belle Isle Library 2012/12/11

Ensuring a Welcoming Experience

During the next two years we will do additional landscaping in The Village Greens outdoor amphitheater space, add fencing gates, take out some trees and add a few trees in strategic spots for future shading, and add covering for the center stage space. This space will be used for concerts and outdoor programming, such as Storytime, music play classes, school visit picnic area and concerts.

2012/10/01 Village Library 2012/12/11

Implement help.metrolibrary.org

Planning Services will develop and unveil a new customer support platform to help address commonly asked questions about our library system and address eMedia questions.

2013/11/28 Planning Services 2012/12/12

New Metrolibrary.org Design

Planning Services will design an updated look for Metrolibrary.org to help increase ease of use and become an irreplaceable resource for the citizens of Oklahoma County.

2012/11/28 Planning Services 2012/12/12

Have trained staff to help customers use the resources effectively.

  • The reference staff will continue to assist all ages in their needs when using the public internet to find the resources they are seeking.
  • Upgrade one Public Computer Specialist position to full time when opening occurs.
2012/12/12 2012/12/12

The resources you need to explore topics of personal interest and continue to learn

All ages realize their library offers topics of personal interest in a variety of
formats they find captivating and enriching to their lives.

2012/12/12 Bethany Library 2012/12/12

Author Night

Partnered with Permabound to host an author reception at the DN library as part of the Encyclomedia conference in downtown OKC. Random House and Penguin provided two authors who spoke to the attendees and signed books. The event was well attended and provided a great new contact for DN, showcasing us as a strategically successful place for events of this type.

2012/12/12 Downtown Library 2012/12/12

Cultural Events to continue

  • Continue to have author visits.
  • Continue to host interactive cultural presentations provided by Outreach.
  • Continue monthly book display highlighting various topics of interest.
  • Continue with banned book display.
  • Continue college preperation series with local universities.
2012/10/01 Belle Isle Library 2012/12/12

Community Involvement

Staff members will maintain strategic relationships with local organizations to improve the local awareness of the economic and informational value of the library in the community.

2012/12/12 Choctaw Library 2012/12/12

Preschool computer class

Offer a Baby & Me computer class to start getting toddlers (and parents) familiar with using a mouse, keyboard, etc. utilizing games and basic instruction

2012/12/12 Southern Oaks Library 2012/12/12

Library Resource Awareness

Fliers and other materials will be made available to library customers so that they are aware of library resources.

2012/12/12 Bethany Library 2012/12/12

Information and Technology Needs

Plan to continue to offer one on one person classes in computer topics ranging from the software programs offered to using the databases.

2012/12/12 Choctaw Library 2012/12/12

target specific customer needs

The demographics of this community is changing and creating a greater need to make a deliberate plan to address the needs of these individuals so close to our library facility.

2012/12/12 Village Library 2012/12/12

Ensure a Welcoming Experience - Collection

• More displays on a variety of topics and including all media
• Continue to showcase magazines within the appropriate ANF sections
• Cross-merchandise services and materials based on customer interest

2012/12/12 Downtown Library 2012/12/12

Promote Electronic Resources

The Bethany Library will have one or more workshops for library customers which will include information on particular resources available on online resources such as e-Media and the databases accessible on the library
system’s website www.metrolibrary.org.

2012/12/12 Bethany Library 2012/12/12

Ensure a Welcoming Experience - Facilities

  • Plans will be considered to change the layout of the library to make it more welcoming and inviting
  • New carpet on the schedule for the next budget year
  • New armchairs will be purchased
2012/10/01 Downtown Library 2012/12/12

Titles provided of interest to community

Continue to communicate with Selection on titles of interest to our community.

2012/12/12 Choctaw Library 2012/12/12

Arrange public computer area and update furnishings

  • Create more space at each computer station.
  • Purchase computer tables and chairs.
  • Add table lamps to existing tables.
2012/12/12 Midwest City Library 2012/12/12

Access to Civic, Cultural and Community Enrichment

  • Provide programs centered on the theme of “The Educations and Culture Place.”
  • Continue the Mad Scientist series.
  • Support community efforts by featuring work of local artisans and nonprofit groups designed to appeal to a large audience in the library lobby display area.
  • Honor Oklahoma culture through programs and traveling exhibits from Oklahoma museums and historical centers.
2012/10/01 Southern Oaks Library 2012/12/12

MyMetrolibrary Functionality

Planning Services staff will survey staff on effectiveness of MyMetrolibrary and solicit feedback for possible functionality changes.

2012/12/01 Planning Services 2012/12/13

Using Service Principles

Staff at the Capitol Hill Library is dedicated to ensuring our visitors feel welcomed from the moment they walk in the door to the moment they leave.

  • 1/13: Our reserve self-pickup station becomes fully operational. Staff members walk customers through the new process, demonstrating use of the self check-out computer as well.
2012/10/01 Capitol Hill Library 2013/01/30

Staff show hospitality and friendly interaction

Long time Belle Isle library customer donated $1.4 million to the MLS Endowment because of the friendly and helpful circulation staff.

2013/04/25 Belle Isle Library 2013/04/25

Self pickup and self checkout of reserves

Provided space on the public service floor so customers can pickup their reserves and checkout without waiting in line.

2013/04/25 Belle Isle Library 2013/04/25

Inviting physical space

New carpet installed in the library and in the meeting/program rooms.

2013/04/25 Belle Isle Library 2013/04/25

Customer seating

To make the library a more comfortable place, a budget request for new adult seating will be included in the FY ’12-13 budget. Several of the current chairs have broken and the seven year warranty is long past

2011/10/01 Warr Acres Library 2013/06/14

New carpet

New carpet will be installed and a brighter pattern with vibrant colors will create an inviting space, not only in the general library area, but for children and families to enjoy a welcoming space to read books and enjoy computer games by January 2013.

2012/12/12 Almonte Library 2013/07/12

Shelving inventory reduction

Shelving that will not be needed for the Almonte Library collection will be removed and the space will be opened up and new furniture will be provided for reading and using wireless access for this community to enjoy by January 2013.

2012/12/12 Almonte Library 2013/07/12

One Customer Service desk

As part of the Almonte Library renovations we will combine the circulation and reference service desks to one space, developing a customer service area are for both checkout and informational needs by January 2013.

2012/12/12 Almonte Library 2013/07/12

Benches outside front entrance of Almonte Library

The Almonte Library will install two new benches to place on both sides of the front entrance for customers to have a seat while waiting for rides or an inviting and comfortable resting place while waiting for the library to open.

2013/07/12 Almonte Library 2013/07/12

Almonte Library Marque Sign

Marketing commissioned a marque sign for the front entrance of the storefront unit of the Almonte Library to easily identify the library unit during daylight hours and after dark.

2013/07/12 Almonte Library 2013/07/12

Inviting Lounge Chairs for Almonte Library

The Almonte Library will provide comfortable lounge chairs for customers to enjoy while visiting the library.

2013/07/12 Almonte Library 2013/07/12

Tablet Chairs for Almonte Library

The Almonte Library will provide an open area in lower area northeast corner of the library for seven Tablet chairs for customers to have for using wi-fi devices they bring to the library.

2013/07/12 Almonte Library 2013/07/12

Open Houses

Northwest staff will increase community awareness of programs and services offered at the Northwest Library through quarterly open houses.

2012/10/01 Northwest Library 2013/08/07

Personalized Note Cards

In order to welcome customers and make a more personal connection, “Welcome to MLS and the Northwest Library” note cards will be given to individual customers or families when they receive a new library card. Cards will be signed by the staff member who issued the card.

2012/10/01 Northwest Library 2013/08/07

Personalized Readers' Advisory

Northwest staff will offer personalized readers’ advisory services to customers upon request.

2012/10/01 Northwest Library 2013/08/07

Technologically Savvy

  1. PC Specialists will complete at least one eMedia training session and will continue to revise eMedia handouts to help customers access our digital technology.
  2. Northwest Library’s eMedia All-Stars will continue to attend meetings about our digital collections and provide instruction to customers on new features and tips for using the content.
2012/10/01 Northwest Library 2013/08/07

Community Outreach

Northwest staff will increase community awareness of programs and services offered at the Northwest Library through community outreach, posters and other signage, one-on-one customer interactions, and information provided during tours

2012/12/12 Northwest Library 2013/08/07

Personal Customer Connection

Northwest staff will routinely offer personal business cards to customers to offer follow-up assistance with research, e-readers, library programs, meeting and study rooms, or recreational reading.

2012/10/01 Northwest Library 2013/08/07

Projecting a Professional Appearance on Library Grounds

Project a professional experience while working in all libraries by maintenance staff and couriers wearing clean, easily identifiable uniforms for easy customer recognition.

2013/10/23 Facilities Maintenance 2013/10/23

2013 FOCUS! Staff Development Day

Approximately 400 of our library staff members participated in our annual staff development day entitled "FOCUS!" held on October 14th at the Sheraton Reed Conference Center in Midwest City, OK. Dr. R. Murali Krishna from the James L. Hall Center for Mind, Body and Spirit at Integris Health conducted the keynote address on the importance of the human spirit. Staff also had the opportunity to attend four break-out training sessions of their choice from the 13 different topics offered.

2013/10/14 Planning Services 2013/10/29

Study Rooms

The Downtown Library has 5 study rooms that are used extensively by library customers. Throughout each day customers come to the 2nd floor of the library and request rooms for private study or small group meetings.

This is a very popular service that the library offers to our customers.

2013/10/16 Downtown Library 2013/10/29

Working with Sensory Sensitive Children Training

Provided a training session for MLS staff on how to recognize and adapt library services and programs to meet the sensory sensitivities of children and families we serve. Session was conducted by two local experts in the field of child development.

2013/09/01 Planning Services 2013/10/29

PlayAway Views Etc.

The Downtown Library highlighted our new Playaway Views during a recent visit by Positive Tomorrows, a local organization that reaches out to disadvantaged youth. They were impressed with the collection, and many of the items in the collection have checked out as a result. In addition, the library has offered tours to numerous schools throughout the year. During the tours, we highlight the Oklahoma Collection, the Holacaust collection, and our microfilm/fiche collection, along with the many other items available to preserve information and history.

2013/10/16 Downtown Library 2013/10/29

HealthCare.gov Training

Staff participated in a webinar session on the new HealthCare.gov website conducted by a trainer from the National Institute of Health South Central Regional Office. HealthCare.gov is the website where the public will go begining October 1, 2013 to select health care exchanges / insurance coverage associated with the Affordable Health Care Act. The library system anticipates a large number of the public to use our public access computers in our libraries to complete their sign-up process.

2013/09/01 Planning Services 2013/10/29

Managerial and Leadership Staff Training

The library system continues its membership in the Central Oklahoma Municipal Alliance with Strategic Government Resources. Participation includes free attendance for our employees in monthly training sessions (2 per month) on a variety of managerial and leadership development topics.

2013/01/01 Planning Services 2013/10/29

Customer Appreciation Month

Libraries throughout the Metropolitan Library System celebrated Customer Appreciation month this year by saying
"Thank You" to our customers in a variety of languages. The Downtown library selected the Russian language, and created a library display to represent the culture and enhance the message. Library staff contributed items from their personal collections which included Russian hats, costumes, Matryoshka (nesting) dolls, as well as posters and flags. Bookmarks were also offered to customers.

2013/10/01 Downtown Library 2013/10/29

STEM Enhancements to Children's Programs

The theme for the upcoming summer reading program for children is Fizz, Boom, Read. We have asked Science Museum Oklahoma to develop a "Science Storytime" workshop to be presented at the spring Children's Services Retreat in April. This training will teach children's programmers how to use children's literature, non-fiction materials, simple demostrations, and hands-on activities to enhance their existing programs in the areas of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM).

2013/10/29 Outreach and Engagement Services 2013/10/29

Community Involvement

We are dedicated to being a presence in the community, and show this dedication by our involvement with civic leaders, community activities, and the customers who visit every day.

2012/12/12 Capitol Hill Library 2013/10/29

New Building

Staff will help ensure a welcoming experience for future customers while we assist in the planning stages for a new building, and will also be involved in gathering data and compiling wish lists to help in the design of a new space.

2012/10/01 Capitol Hill Library 2013/10/29

Welcoming Presence at Warr Acres Library through Public Art

In October of this year, a new public art piece was unveiled at the Warr Acres Library. This piece adds visual appeal to the outdoor landscape of the library.

2013/10/31 Development/Volunteer Services 2013/10/31

Annual Funds Letter Shared on Facebook

The 2013 Library Endowment Trust letter was sent out to potential donors. The focus was on a the "Children Reading to Dogs" program featuring Joy Lauffenburger and her dog, Goldie. A recipient liked the letter so much they shared it on our facebook page and with their friends.

2013/10/31 Development/Volunteer Services 2013/10/31

Summer at the Library Sponsorships

The department has been working to secure financial and in-kind suppor to assist in with the "Summer at the Library" program. Several grants and in-kind incentives for participants have been received. The department is working on building relationships with many local businesses.

2013/10/31 Development/Volunteer Services 2013/10/31

Encouraging a Love for Science

In October, the Village Library offered a four part Science Sleuth Series for Teens. With the help of the Friends of the Village Library, we were able to offer a program every Wednesday evening. Mad Science, the OKC Astronomy Club and the Science Museum made this a really fun month; touching on an array of different science topics intriguing to teens.

2013/10/02 Village Library 2013/11/05

New Chairs

New wooden chairs for five reading tables place around the library to invite customers to use as needed.

2013/04/30 Almonte Library 2013/11/06

Furnish Meeting Rooms with tables and chairs

Provide new tables and chairs with safety table toters and chair dollies for staff to move furnitures for room set ups with out injury.

2013/04/30 Almonte Library 2013/11/06

School Contacts II

To encourage lifelong learning, librarians will continue to promote reading and library use at local schools by adding another middle and two more elementary schools to our school visitation project while revisiting the four elementary schools given presentations in the fall of 2012/spring 2013 during fiscal year 2013-14.

2012/10/01 Warr Acres Library 2013/11/06

Ensure a Welcoming Experience

Del City staff will engage in a Customer Education campaign that explains the services offered by the Metropolitan Library System, including the creation of a New Customer Packet that will be given when customers sign up for a library card.

2012/10/01 Del City Library 2013/11/07

BI 50th Anniversary

The library continues to provide a valuable connection with the community by hosting a two hour reception to celebrate it's 50th anniversary on September 30, 2013. Harpist Jill Justice played beautifully throughout the reception while customers mingled with each other and looked through photos from the past 50 years.

2013/11/08 Belle Isle Library 2013/11/08

Access Video on Demand Available

MLS added a subscription to AVOD (Access Video on Demand), which allows our customers to watch and use videos for educational purposes (and for fun). The beauty part is that our subscription pays for public performance rights, allwoing the video to be shown to a class. There's an article in the May 2013 info magazine that helped us spread the word.

2013/11/08 Marketing & Communications 2013/11/08

Mother Goose on the Loose

This program for young children, developed in Baltimore, has caught on in a big way with MLS customers. It uses a variety of activities to foster speech development, motor skills, and self-confidence. It also builds language skills and promotes general knowledge. Take a look at the article in the May 2013 info magazine for more details.

2013/11/08 Marketing & Communications 2013/11/08

Rae Carson Author Visit

Popular YA fantasy novelist Rae Carson visited five MLS libraries in March 2013 to meet her fans and chat about her life and her writing. It's nice to remind readers that books don't exist soley as artifacts, but are the results of humans interacting with their surroundings (even in a fantastical way).

2013/11/08 Outreach and Engagement Services 2013/11/08

Home Run: The Art of Mike Wimmer

Paintings from the ALA Notable Children's Book "Home Run" went on display at NW in March 2013. The book was illustrated by OK artist Mike Wimmer, who is credited on the book's cover as one of its co-creators. Great art reproduced in books is one thing, but getting to see original paintings is something else and it allows library customers to see how different elements all add together to create a book.

2013/11/08 Northwest Library 2013/11/08

Sarah Lee Guthrie & Family: Go Wagaloo

Woody Guthrie is an OK icon and MLS was pleased to invite his granddaughter, who is also a singer/songwriter, to visit 11 of our libraries. Sarah Lee brought her family with her and they performed music from their album, "Go Wagaloo." Some of the songs were written by Woody, providing a link with the state's past.

2013/11/08 Outreach and Engagement Services 2013/11/08

eBooks 101

We presented several workshops at which customers with new eBook reading devices could learn how to use the technology to access our digital book collection. One of the first of these sessions was led by Jerod Gerfen at MC. Other workshops of this type continue all around MLS.

2013/11/08 Midwest City Library 2013/11/08

National Library Card Sign-Up Month

We encouraged everyone through an article in info magazine to make sure their library card was up to date, and even how to get one if they didn't have one already. The article talked about the savings available to card users and quoted several celebrities (is Albert Einstein a celebrity?) about how great libraries are.

2013/11/08 Marketing & Communications 2013/11/08

Your Own Home Newsstand

This article in the July info magazine introduced the Zinio database to our customers. We compared access to Zinio to the old time street corner newsstand to let people know how many magazines are available to them for free via Zinio.

2013/11/11 Collection Development 2013/11/11

Teen Filmmaking Competition and Festival

It's hard to believe but 2013 saw the 6th edition of Downtown Library's "I Can't Believe I Shot That" filmmaking contest for teens. Conceived and hosted by Kimberly Edwards, the event attracts kids in grades 6-12 to compete for prizes and bragging rights.

2013/11/11 Downtown Library 2013/11/11

Cartooning and Songwriting with Morgan Taylor

This was really two events with cartoonist and songwriter Morgan Taylor. Taylor has presented at MLS libraries before, but the emphasis was always on his popular 'toon character Gustafer Yellowgold. This time, Gustafer got the assist as Taylor presented two workshops, one on Basic Cartooning, and the other on Popular Songwriting. A popular feature of the latter was that songs that were created by students in the workshop were performed.

2013/11/11 Outreach and Engagement Services 2013/11/11

Swingin' and Singin' in Deep Deuce

Our 2013 Black History Month celebration brought the glory days of Deep Deuce back to life through the talents of the Rhythmically Speaking theater troupe and the musical pleasures of Adam and Kizzie Ledbetter. The Ledbetters, both born in OK City, have honed their songwriting and performance skills in concerts all over the world and we were pleased to have them here to help us remind customers that Deep Deuce was once the home of great jazz.

2013/11/11 Outreach and Engagement Services 2013/11/11

Diaper Bag Cinema

A lot of young parents don't get to enjoy the simple pleasure of going to the movies because their children are too young to remain still and quiet for two hours. Downtown Library came to the rescue with this twice-monthly series of film screenings at which babies are welcome. Do they get a little fussy? Sure, what baby doesn't? But if everyone in the audience expects it, no one gets upset. No adult, anyway.

2013/11/11 Downtown Library 2013/11/11

2nd Annual Crowns Tea

There is a rich tradition in the African-American community of ladies wearing their fanciest hats (crowns) to church, and Midwest City Library recognized that tradion by inviting customers to a tea (music, drinks, hors d'oeuvres), and the wearing of church hats was encouraged. This event was an unusual way to celebrate National Black History Month.

2013/11/11 Midwest City Library 2013/11/11

Health Information Specialists

Specialized training for twenty MLS staff members on a variety of health information resources available via the public library. The Level I Non-Health Sciences Specialization is achieved by participating in 4 of 6 classes from the Medical Library Association's (MLA) Consumer Health Information Specialization (CHIS) offerings. Training sessions focus on such topics as nutrition, health of older adults and children, drug information resources and general health information resources.

2013/11/18 Planning Services 2013/11/18

Prepare: Respect Service & Safety at Work

Continued training for all staff on how to safely handle disruptive individuals in the workplace. This four-hour interactive training session prepares staff members to identify agitated individual and techniques to de-esculate their behavior. The MLS Rules of Conduct provides the guidlines for behavior related issues.

2013/11/18 Planning Services 2013/11/18

Introduction to Child Development Training

Staff training on the physical and psychological developments of children. The goal of this training is to help staff members prepare for and conduct children's services and events in our library locations and outreach events as to meet the needs of our younger customers.

2013/11/18 Planning Services 2013/11/18

Young Adult Development Training

Staff training on the physical and psychological developments of young adults. The goal of this training is to help staff members prepare for and conduct young adult services and events in our library locations and outreach events as to meet the needs of our young adult customers.

2013/11/18 Planning Services 2013/11/18

Oklahoma State of Creativity Participation

Staff members participated in the 2013 Oklahoma State of Creativity event in Downtown Oklahoma City. The event included dynamic presentations and dialogue with internationally recognized experts in creativity, innovation and entrepreneurship.

2013/11/18 Planning Services 2013/11/18

Circulation Fundamental Training

Continued staff training on the fundamental processes and procedures related to the circulation functions within our library system.

2013/11/18 Planning Services 2013/11/18

Materials and Reserve Fundamentals Training

Continued staff training on the fundamental processes and procedures related to materials and the reserve functions within our library system.

2013/11/18 Planning Services 2013/11/18

Emotional Intelligence Training

Staff training aimed at assisting individuals in establishing a greater awareness of personal and interpersonal emotional strengths and weaknesses for the purpose of developming more effective leadership skills and enhancing their ability to generate positive responses to workplace challenges.

2013/11/18 Planning Services 2013/11/18

Reference USA Database Training & Updates

Staff training conducted by a Reference USA trainer on the updates and features of the subscription databases purchased from Reference USA. This training is geared at helping staff members assist our customers in utilizing these databases for their research needs.

2013/11/18 Planning Services 2013/11/18

Security Services

We work to create safe and welcoming places and choosing the right security officer requires a balance of customer service and safety.

2013/11/19 Security 2013/11/19

Library Represented at Conferences, Fairs, & Celebrations in Oklahoma County

From July 1, 2012 to November 19th, 2013, Outreach Services has been the face of the Metropolitan Library System in the community. We have been part of 36 conferences, fairs, or celebrations attended by approximately 12,000 people. We bring information about services found in our libraries. We answer questions about library cards and programs. Our goal is to talk to as many Oklahoma County citizens face-to-face about the wonderful services to be had at our libraries within the Metropolitan Library System.

2013/11/19 Outreach and Engagement Services 2013/11/19

Books Come Alive Through Tours

Through Outreach Service's system-wide cultural tours, information found in books, CD's, and DVD's are presented live in the library. This year we celebrated Hispanic Heritage in September of 2013. Ballet Flamenco Espanol Folklorico Dance Company presented the Flamenco dance as it began in Spain and traveled to South America and Mexico. In October we presented Cimarron Opera's A Grimm Affair from the familiar Grimm's fairytales. Melody of China presented Chinese culture through ancient instruments, stories, and songs. These people grew up in China during the time of Chairman Mao.

2013/11/19 Outreach and Engagement Services 2013/11/19

Downloads & Streaming Page

Web Services created a general landing page to incorporate the most important digital resources for our customers. This landing page is now one of the most visited webpages on Metrolibrary.org. The downloads page breaks down the services from eBooks & Audiobooks, music and video, magazines, languages and some of our other favorite resources (that are free and help customers continue lifelong learning).

2013/07/01 Planning Services 2013/11/26

Rules of Conduct Violation Module

Web Services created an online Rules of Conduct violation module to help streamline the Rules of Conduct form and provide a centralized database for all ROC violations.

2013/04/01 Planning Services 2013/11/26

Share Your Story Initiative

DVS, MAC, and PLA have worked to create a warehouse of customer stories of how the library has changed their lives and why libraries are valuable to our community.

2013/02/01 Development/Volunteer Services, Marketing & Communications 2013/11/26

Library Value Calculator

Created for our customers and as a website highlight to help our customers see the value their library plays in their life. Customers can enter in the number of items or times they use a particular service, material or program and the calculator will configure the value their library card saved them. http://www.metrolibrary.org/mls/calculator.htm

2013/03/01 Planning Services 2013/11/26

Connect with the Community

In November, DVS met with several community leaders to discuss the Summer at the Library program and the Literary Voices dinner. These were productive partnership building meetings that resulted in new relationships and sponsorships for the Library.

2013/12/02 Development/Volunteer Services 2013/12/02

Find, Evaluate & Use Information

By building relationships across library systems, MLS is able to evaluate tactics that peer libraries are using and evaluate whether they would be a good fit for MLS. In November, Diane attended the Pioneer Library System's new library opening and the unveiling of their 24 hour library vending system.

2013/12/02 Development/Volunteer Services 2013/12/02

Connect to the Community

United for Libraries is a national group that works on behalf of all libraries "to support citizens who govern, promote, advocate, and fundraise for all types of libraries." MLS's DVS department is involved with this endeavor by serving on the corporate sponsorship committee which met in November.

2013/12/02 Development/Volunteer Services 2013/12/02

Satisfy Curiosity

In November, Joy Lauffenberger, a volunteer with the "Reading to Dogs" program attended the Library Endowment Trust meeting and spoke about her experience with autism and why the library was a place of comfort for her.

2013/12/02 Development/Volunteer Services 2013/12/02

Encourage and assist efforts to improve existing facility

  • New coat of paint added to the inside walls of the library
  • Reference desk renovated to be more open and inviting
  • New signage displaying additional/Sunday hours added to front door
  • Antiquated shelving switched out with modern shelving, providing room for collection growth and expanding aisle space
  • Landscaping added to north side of building
  • New commercial toilet installed in unisex bathroom
  • Information table added to vestibule 
  • 2 new bike racks installed in front of the library
2012/12/12 Capitol Hill Library 2013/12/02

Find, Evaluate & Use Information

MLS Executive Director, Donna Morris, and DVS Director, Diane Sarantakos, both serve on the Oklahoma Library Association's Legislative Committee. The committee works to"coordinate OLA's legislative involvement, promptly communicate with the officers and membership about state or federal legislation concerning Oklahoma libraries, and encourage understanding and involvement of members in the legislative process."

2013/12/02 Development/Volunteer Services 2013/12/03

Community Involvement

Director of Library Operations will attend at least one program per
library each year to interact with staff, performers, and
customers/attendees.

Director of Library Operations will identify, establish, and maintain
strategic partnerships with community stakeholders within Oklahoma
County to plan and promote future library activities and services.

2013/11/01 Guest Services 2013/12/04

Staff Development

Managers of Library Operations will attend at least two job related/professional level training per year.

Managers of Library Operations will discuss a variety of relevant topics on management and leadership using John Maxwell's "Power Lunch & Learn" series as the primary resource.

A Forum to enhance the growth and development of Assistant Managers of Library Operations will be held at least 3 times each year.

2013/11/01 Guest Services 2013/12/09

Smile at People

Using the service principles we will smile! And we will like it!

2013/12/11 Planning Services 2013/12/11

Strategic Plan Implementation Team

Deputy Executive Director/Library Operations will establish a team to develop an implementation plan to ensure staff understand and work toward the goals of the strategic plan.

2012/11/28 Planning Services 2013/12/11

Connecting to the Online World

  • We doubled the number of public computers to 36 and will be able to provide quicker access to the internet for our customers.
  • Provide computer classes for seniors.
  • Add an additional Public Computer Specialist position to provide expert assistance to our customers.
2012/10/01 Southern Oaks Library 2013/12/11

New Almonte Library

The library system will improve this space for our customers, renovating the space after the well worn use of this store front to house the Southern Oaks library during their building renovations.

2012/12/04 Almonte Library 2013/12/11

Create a welcoming atmosphere

To participate in the system-wide Holiday Open House, DN decorated a holiday tree to the theme of the Christmas song, "Mele Kalikimaka" (Hawaiin for 'Merry Christmas') and displayed it in the atrium.

2013/12/11 Downtown Library 2013/12/11

Expand Resource Displays at Programs

Customers will be connected to both physical resources and online resources while attending programs.

2013/12/11 Del City Library 2013/12/11

Promotion of Services

  • Promote the new resources to the community through outreach at community trade shows, local chamber of commerce, and neighborhood associations.
  • Highlight new services and resources through library newsletters and flyers.
2012/10/01 Southern Oaks Library 2013/12/11

Provide new shelving for DVDs

New shelving will allow customers to more easily browse our Feature Film on DVD collection.

2014/12/11 Midwest City Library 2013/12/11

Connect to the Online World

Half Time Computer Specialist will offer a variety of computer classes to increase understanding, safety and productivity when using the internet and other computer applications.

2012/12/12 Del City Library 2013/12/11

Host GED and Adult Education classes

Have adult educatuon classes to fill the need of GED classes and literacy classes.

2013/12/11 Southern Oaks Library 2013/12/11

Almonte librarians will use information gathered from customers to identify "holes" in the collection and use collection plans to communicate to MSL for collection development.

Librarians have noticed "holes" in Almonte collection, created naturally by having limited information about this community, on which to build the start up collection. They will collect information on these topcis and determine by the depth of need for the Almonte Library community.

2013/12/11 Almonte Library 2013/12/11

Almonte librarians will use information gathered from customers to identify "holes" in the collection and use collection plans to communicate to MSL for collection development.

Librarians have noticed "holes" in Almonte collection, created naturally by having limited information about this community, on which to build the start up collection. They will collect information on these topcis and determine by the depth of need for the Almonte Library community.

2013/12/11 Almonte Library 2013/12/11

New Paint

The Family Place room, Quiet Reading Room and our YA corner will be painted to create fresh and defined spaces.

2014/12/11 Midwest City Library 2013/12/11

provide Wellness classes

In partnership with the Oklahoma City/County Health Departemtn, host a 12 week Wellness course for our customers.

2013/12/11 Southern Oaks Library 2013/12/11

Customer Seating

New lounge chairs will be purchased for the main library. This will provide comfortable seating for those staying in the library to read, study, and/or relax.

2014/12/11 Midwest City Library 2013/12/11

Provide Technology Training to all Generations in our Community

Customers have access to free one-on-one computer training/tutoring. Our public computer specialist provides basic computing knowledge by appointment. Staff take time during these trainings to explain the many online offerings that the MLS provides. This service is frequently utilized in the Village community.

2013/12/11 Village Library 2013/12/11

Clear and Connective INFO magazine entries

The INFO magazine entries provided for Northwest Library programs will clearly reflect how the scheduled event connects to library resources and services. Entries will also be clear, concise and engaging. Entries will be jointly evaluated monthly by the MLO, AMLO, and LEC.

2013/12/11 Northwest Library 2013/12/11

Offer access to civic, cultural and community enrichment

  • Support community efforts by featuring work of local artisans and nonprofit groups designed to appeal to a large audience in the library lobby display area.
  • Honor Oklahoma culture through programs and traveling exhibits from Oklahoma museums and historical centers.
2012/12/12 Midwest City Library 2013/12/11

Make changes to Reference services checklist, to help track number of customer requests, not filled from Almonte collection.

We started with a pre-determined list from another library, this needs to be changed to include most frequently asked questions by Almonte customers.

2013/12/11 Almonte Library 2013/12/11

Staff Development / Empowerment - Competence

The extension specialist position requires a diverse skill set because they are generalist who do a little bit of everything (as opposed to more the more defined roles in the larger MLS locations). Because they do so much (customer service, circulation, reference, administration, programming, outreach, janitorial, etc.), we're working to ensure the highest level of competence in each area. That involves specialized training and creating support networks both inside and outside their workgroup.

2013/12/11 Harrah Library, Luther Library 2013/12/11

Staff Development - Competence

The extension specialist position requires a diverse skill set because they are generalist who do a little bit of everything (as opposed to more the more defined roles in the larger MLS locations). Because they do so much (customer service, circulation, reference, administration, programming, outreach, janitorial, etc.), we're working to ensure the highest level of competence in each area. That involves specialized training and creating support networks both inside and outside their workgroup.

2013/12/11 Jones Library, Nicoma Park Library 2013/12/11

Staff Development - Competence

The extension specialist position requires a diverse skill set because they are generalist who do a little bit of everything (as opposed to more the more defined roles in the larger MLS locations). Because they do so much (customer service, circulation, reference, administration, programming, outreach, janitorial, etc.), we're working to ensure the highest level of competence in each area. That involves specialized training and creating support networks both inside and outside their workgroup.

2013/12/11 Jones Library, Nicoma Park Library 2013/12/11

New Customer Tours

Goal

Ensure that new customers are given the opportunity to learn about the physical and digital resources they now have access to.

Implementation

2013/12/11 Choctaw Library 2013/12/11

Training to ensure knowledge, skills and abilities

1. All Northwest Library staff will attend or participate in at least one job-related training
session per year.

2. Circulation staff will each attend at least one Circulation Forum.

3. Librarians and associate librarians will attend at least one professional-level training
session and one Connect Librarian Forum throughout the year.

2012/10/01 Northwest Library 2013/12/11

Promote library services to community within 3 mile radius to ensure all community has a chance to learn about services offered at their "new" community library.

Track the locations where we take library info magazine

Track where we delivery flyers about library events

Track visits to local schools

Track visits to senior facilities to talk about library services or book talks

2013/12/11 Almonte Library 2013/12/11

Collaborate with & Support Local Community Entities

Librarians coordinated two visits with Heritage Hall School.  Preschoolers visited the Village Library and enjoyed a tour and Thanksgiving themed storytime.   

2013/11/20 Village Library 2013/12/11

Know How to Find, Evaluate & Use Information

  • Librarians will attend a minimum of 3 information management or reference workshops to assist them in staying current with trends and information.
  • Librarians will be given an opportunity to attend the OLA State Conference.
  • Support Staff will attend a minimum of 3 workshops/training sessions on customer service and/or communications skills.
2012/10/01 Del City Library 2013/12/11

Make plan to meet online needs of Almonte customers

Visit with librarians and public computer specialist about what the needs are for Almonte library and how to develop a plan to meet their needs.

2013/12/11 Almonte Library 2013/12/11

NW Study Room Survey

The Northwest Library will conduct a two week survey to determine the level of customer satisfaction with the NW study rooms. Each customer who uses a study room will be offered the opportunity to complete a survey. Through this we hope to learn more about our customers' experiences with the physical spaces as well as their experience interacting with the staff who assisted them. The information will give us an opportunity to discover how to better meet our customers' needs.

2013/11/01 Northwest Library 2013/12/20

Providing Excellent Customer Service

Staff is dedicated to ensuring our visitors feel welcomed from the moment they walk in the door to the moment they leave.

2012/12/12 Capitol Hill Library 2013/12/23

To provide our librarians with the tools necessary for performer satisfaction.

To ensure prompt payment of Performers, publish on a monthly basis a list of Performers and their status on Affidavits of Exempt Status as well as Contractors banned from working in the libraries due to non-compliance with providing Affidavits of Exempt Status or Workers Comp Insurance Fact sheets.

2013/10/23 Business Office 2014/01/03

New Loveseat sofa for Staff Lounge

Purchase a new loveseat sofa for staff lounge to give staff a welcoming place to lounge during required breaks.

2014/01/04 Almonte Library 2014/01/04

Cultural Enrichment

Customers will enjoy performances of cultural interest and will have opportunities to meet with others in a festive atmosphere.

2012/12/12 Bethany Library 2014/01/11

Mother Goose on the Loose

Lap-Sit programs for ages 6 to 36 months.
Encourage children's development while
having fun with their parent or guardian.

2013/09/12 Bethany Library 2014/01/11

Have an inviting Holiday Open House for Bethany Customers

Holiday Open House was rescheduled due to icy driving conditions for all
who would want to attend. The new date was successful in drawing customers to share refreshments and entertainment. The delightful Holiday entertainment was a provided by a flute trio from UCO.

2013/12/14 Bethany Library 2014/01/11

To better utilize workroom space

Rearrange the workroom to eliminate one floor shelving unit so that two real desks can be purchased to replace the current partition/tabletop/cart units and add another staff computer. This should improve the staff's ability to do collection maintenance, programming. Budget requests will be included in the 2014-15 budget.

2013/10/07 Warr Acres Library 2014/02/11

What Would Marian Do?

The What Would Marian Do? training was developed to meet a need that was identified by the PIE committee. This training provides library staff with an overview of the values and philosophies of the library profession, the ways that those values are implemented in MLS through our policies and procedures, the Oklahoma state laws and other guidelines that affect the library profession, and the way that the philosophies of the library profession can be seen in daily library activities.

2014/04/09 All Locations 2014/04/09

Bethany Library Rocket Academy for grades 6-8.

On May 17th, the Bethany Library will continue its Innovation Plan
which emphasizes scientific principles by providing an opportunity for participants
aged 10-14 years of age to build their own model rockets and launch them on the same day.
The workshop gives youth an enriching hands-on experience that could inspire their pursuing
science as a career.

2014/04/16 Bethany Library 2014/04/16

Furniture Replacement

Placed request for two new computer chairs to continue the replacement of older chairs.

2014/04/01 Bethany Library 2014/04/16

Paper Roses for a Spring Wreath Class

Adults will create wreaths covered in paper roses
of their own making. Learn to make the roses
and attach to a wreath form.

2014/04/16 Bethany Library 2014/04/16

Provide a space for teens to enjoy Yu-Gi-Oh!.

Teens continue to meet once a month to trade cards, duel, or just to talk Yu-Gi-Oh!
with supervision by a Librarian.

2014/05/03 Bethany Library 2014/04/16

Improve skills

Staff will give friendly service and will take advantage of training opportunities to improve their service skills.
Staff are attending the Principles of Wow! Workshop and sharing their experiences with Bethany staff members.

2014/04/01 Bethany Library 2014/04/16

School Contacts

To encourage lifelong learning, librarians will continue to promote reading and library use at local schools by adding two more schools to our school visitation project while revisiting the two elementary schools given presentations in the fall of 2011 so that four elementary schools are contacted during FY 12-13. Same goal set for FY 13-14.

2011/10/01 Warr Acres Library 2014/04/30

Replace unstable nonfiction shelving

To improve the safety of staff and customers, new shelving will be purchased to replace the unstable nonfiction shelving during FY 13-14.

2013/12/11 Warr Acres Library 2014/04/30

Increase the library's presence at local day cares.

During FY 14-15, the children's librarian will visit at least two local day cares to do a storytime and talk about the library.

2013/10/10 Warr Acres Library 2014/05/16

Purchase a new desk for Manager's office

Purchase a new desk to provide a space where the manager can work to learn and maintain an up-to-date knowledge, to assist external and internal customers alike.

2014/01/04 Almonte Library 2014/08/01

Children services plan

During the early months of 2013 we will develop a plan for offering this community standard library programming that includes children’s Story times, 1-2-3 Play with Me, and other children programs that promote activity and reading.

By March 2013 we will develop a plan for offering this community library programming that includes children’s Story times, 1-2-3 Play with Me, and other children programs that promote activity and reading.

2012/12/12 Almonte Library 2014/08/01

Adult services plan

By the end of March 2013 we will develop a plan for adults services to provide job and career development programs from learning to write resumes to how to prepare for interviews, as wells as book clubs and free tax assistance.

2012/12/12 Almonte Library 2014/08/01

Teen Services plan

We will plan after school homework help for teens and other activities these teens would like to do to learn and enrich their lives.

2014/08/01 Almonte Library 2014/08/01

OU Library School Students tour the DN Library

Students from the University of Oklahoma School of Library and Information Studies toured the Downtown Library. The advisors wanted the group to learn about the Downtown Library, the challenges and opportunities of working in a public library, and make professional connections with the staff. MLO Julie Ballou led the tour of the library and Oklahoma Collection Coordinator Buddy Johnson gave them a tour of the Oklahoma Room. Comments from the group were that they enjoyed the tour and that it was a great learning experience.

2014/08/05 Downtown Library 2014/11/05

MLS window display at John Rex Elementary

Downtown Library staff created a fall-themed window display for John Rex Elementary School. The window is visible to the Downtown OKC community as they drive or walk by the new charter school.

2014/10/15 Downtown Library 2014/11/05

Downtown staff attend John Rex Elementary Parents Night

As the Downtown Library serves as the school library for the new charter school John Rex Elementary, two library staff members attended their open house parents night. Librarian Jessica Gonzalez talked to parents and teachers sharing information about MLS and the Downtown Library. Circulation clerk Jessica Morris issued approximately 60 new library cards.

2014/08/19 Downtown Library 2014/11/05

New Chairs in the Downtown Library

New lounge chairs at the Downtown Library feature a soft, washable vinyl that will stay fresh, clean, and inviting for customers.

2014/05/05 Downtown Library 2014/11/05

Oklahoma City's 125 Birthday Celebration

Oklahoma City celebrated the 125th anniversary of the Land Run with a wide range of festivities in the Downtown area. Oklahoma Collection Coordinator Buddy Johnson served as a historical consultant on the planning committee. He also volunteered to provide tours of Oklahoma City's historic Municipal Building and appeared as a guest on Mayor Mick Cornett's television show discussing the history of the city describing the historical materials available at the library for further research.

2014/04/22 Downtown Library 2014/11/05

Meeting of Spencer Historical Society

The Spencer Historical Society met on August 4, 2014. Oklahoma Collection Coordinator Buddy Johnson was invited to speak on the founder of Spencer, Louis F. Kramer, and discussed opportunities for future collaboration with the group such as oral history recordings of longtime residents. Attendees were also informed of events and services available at nearby libraries in Jones, Luther and Midwest City.

2014/11/05 Downtown Library 2014/11/05

Presentation at John Rex Elementary Teacher Training Day

Librarian, Jessica Gonzalez, provided an overview of the services that the Downtown Library is able to offer to John Rex teachers, parents, and students. Jessica expressed how excited all Downtown staff are to see students on a weekly basis starting in the fall. Jessica especially encouraged teachers to let her know about upcoming projects so that she can build special displays catered to students and parents. She also let teachers know that DN librarians can pull materials in advance for teachers to pick up at their convenience.

2014/08/11 Downtown Library 2014/11/07

Meeting with John Rex Elementary

Julie Ballou (Manager, DN), Buddy Johnson (Oklahoma Collection Coordinator, DN), and Jessica Gonzalez (Librarian, DN) met with Adam Zodrow (Master Teacher and STEM Coordinator, Rex Elementary) and Molly Goldsworthy (Director of Educational Services, Rex Elementary) to discuss how to best connect Rex students with Downtown Library services and materials for the upcoming 2014-2015 school year. Adam and Molly shared that they would like to see their students at the Downtown library on a weekly basis.

2014/07/16 Downtown Library 2014/11/07

John Rex Elementary School—Downtown Library Orientations and Tours

Librarians, Jessica Gonzalez and Lisa Bradley, provided John Rex students, teachers, and parent volunteers with a basic orientation of the Downtown Library and tours of the Children’s area. Throughout the month of September, fourteen classes (pre-k to 2nd grade) met Downtown staff members and learned about library etiquette, materials, and services.

2014/09/01 Downtown Library 2014/11/07

John Rex Elementary Weekly Library Visits

John Rex Elementary has officially started their Walking Wednesday schedule, which is strongly focused on Downtown Library visits. Every grade level will visit the library every two weeks. Each child will have the opportunity to select 2 books to check out on their own library card. These books will stay at school and will be returned by their classroom teachers before their next visit. The Downtown Library will welcome and assist between 135-200 children every Wednesday morning.

2014/10/15 Downtown Library 2014/11/08

Positive Tomorrows After-School Programming

Positive Tomorrows' Support Assistant & Extracurricular Activities Program Coordinator, Teri Barkus, reached out to Jessica Gonzalez, Librarian, to see about the possibility of having students visit the DN Library after school for various enrichment programs. Jessica welcomed the idea and created a schedule for grades K-5 that includes a rotation of the following programs: Art in the Afternoon, Board Games, Children Reading to Dogs, and LEGO Club. The majority of these programs encourage open play and all are focused on helping children build their social and fine motor skills.

2014/09/02 Downtown Library 2014/11/08

Positive Tomorrows Weekly Visits

Amy Brewer, Assistant Principle, reached out to Jessica Gonzalez, Librarian, about continuing their weekly classroom visits to check-out library materials. Amy provided Jessica with a proposed schedule that included kindergarten classes, a group that hasn't visited the library to check out books in the past. This was a welcome addition. Starting in September, 2-3 grade levels (K-5) will be visiting the library every Friday morning for book selection and check-out. Each visit will be led by Jessica or a skilled librarian.

2014/09/12 Downtown Library 2014/11/08

Edgemere Elementary Open House

The DN Library was invited to attend Edgemere Elementary’s open house event for the 2014-2015 school year. Librarian, Jessica Gonzalez, attended the event and presented information about the DN Library and Metropolitan Library System to families and children. Jessica encouraged families to visit any Metro location to sign-up for a library card and take advantage of the great services offered system wide.

2014/08/12 Downtown Library 2014/11/08

Summer Reading School Visits

In an effort to promote MLS’s Summer Reading Program to schools in the Downtown Library’s service area, Librarian, Jessica Gonzalez, presented at school assemblies throughout the month of May. The following schools received school visits: Rosary, Hawthorne Elementary, and Eugene Field Elementary. Jessica used Prezi.com to create digital presentations geared specifically towards elementary students.

2014/05/01 Downtown Library 2014/11/08

Scratch Lessons with Positive Tomorrows

Librarian, Jessica Gonzalez, led Scratch (scratch.mit.edu) lessons in the Downtown Computer Lab for 3rd-5th graders attending Positive Tomorrows. Scratch.mit.edu is a free website where children and teens can learn to program their own interactive stories, games, and animations. These creations can then be shared with others in an online community. Scratch is a project of the Lifelong Kindergarten Group at the MIT Media Lab. By creating programs through Scratch students have the opportunity to learn to think creatively, reason systematically, and work collaboratively.

2014/05/06 Downtown Library 2014/11/08

Encourage and assist efforts to improve existing facility

  • Purchased 500 new book supports.
  • Removed three large metal screens from the computers at our reference desk, making staff more accessible and making the desk easier to clean.
  • Installed wider shelves in the Tween nonfiction collection, making those materials easier to edge and more attractive.
  • New signage for the Reserve shelves.
  • New signage for library card applications.
  • Reduced clutter at reference desk; also reduced clutter in backroom.
  • Painted curb by book drop.
  • Installed new book drop.
2014/11/18 Belle Isle Library 2014/11/18

Providing Excellent Customer Service

All staff ensure our customers feel welcome from the moment they enter the library and throughour their visit.

  • 6/14: Staff training: SignUp
  • 7/14 and 8/14: Staff training: CarlX and TLC
  • 8/14: Staff training: Envisionware
  • 10/14: Staff training: Branching Out: Providing Quality Genealogy Services
2014/11/18 Belle Isle Library 2014/11/18

Connect to the Community

Identify and reestablish relationships with community partners.

2011/12/15 Edmond Library 2014/11/20

Ensure a Welcoming Experience

  • Replace worn furniture
    • Colorful lounge chairs - some with tablet arms for laptop use - were purchased in FY13 and located throughout the adult side of the library, replacing tattered, dirty chairs
    • New child-sized sofas were purchased for the children's area
    • Tables in Conference Room D were replaced with lighter tables that are easier to move
  • Replace and add directional signage  
    • End panel signs in adult section all updated with color coordinated template
2012/10/01 Edmond Library 2014/11/20

Promote New Materials and Formats

  • We continue to introduce customers to the AMP & Playaway View formats
  • Planning an "E-Media 101: Making Peace with Your Electronic Device" (January 2015) to encourage customers who received e-readers as holiday gifts to explore our digital collection
  • Outreach to local senior center introduced residents to digital media and resulted in several visits for help "getting set up" with tablets and e-readers
  • New materials in all formats are displayed prominently near the reference desk and holds area
2011/12/15 Edmond Library 2014/11/20

Provide Amazing Customer Service

  • Recommit as a staff to the MLS Service Principles.
  • Keep the 5 main points from the MLS Customer Service Philosophy forefront (The Olympics of Customer Service).
  • Coach, counsel and train staff as needed - ONGOING.
  • Solicit “secret shoppers” to put our service to the test.
  • Assess current library programs in terms of how well they serve the customer according to the latest demographic data and modify as needed
2012/10/01 Edmond Library 2014/11/20

NW staff members serve in the Oklahoma Library Association

NW librarian Julia McConnell has served as the 2013/2014 Secretary of the Oklahoma Library Association. NW librarian Rondia Banks stepped in to fill the remaining term of service as the 2013/2014 Chair of the Social Responsibilities Round Table. Their participation and information sharing is a benefit to all NW staff. Amber Clark joined the Ethics Committee in May 2014.

2014/12/23 Northwest Library 2014/12/23

Tailored Titles on Facebook

The Northwest Library staff will partner with Planning to offer the Tailored Titles reader's advisory service on Facebook. During the Facebook sessions, NW staff will provide reader's advisory suggestions to the requests posted by customers and send them to the MLS virtual librarian. This service began in 2014 with sessions taking place every Wednesday for one month each quarter. In an attempt to reach a larger number of customers and offer regular installments, we will offer the Facebook sessions on the first Wednesday of each month beginning in January 2015.

2013/12/11 Northwest Library 2014/12/23

Customer Service Excellence

Since February of 2014, at monthly staff meetings, NW staff members reviewed the MLS service principle "I L.E.A.R.N. to wow the customer" by using the L.E.A.R.N. process of listening, empathizing, apologizing, reacting, and notifying to resolve now. Through role-playing scenarios, the staff practiced the use of this customer service recovery model. Beginning in 2015, the NW staff members will attend the Customer Service Excellence training offered through the Planning department.

2014/12/23 Northwest Library 2014/12/23

Spoticus Breakfast to Introduce the New SR Program

With the assistance of Outreach, Development, and Planning, NW hosted the Spoticus Breakfast to introduce the new online SR program in May of 2014. This event provided the opportunity for customers to view a tutorial on the new online program, sign up for summer reading, and ask questions of trained staff to help them use these resources effectively.

2014/12/23 Northwest Library 2014/12/23

Introduce the features of the new catalog

With the assistance of Planning and Development, NW held an event to introduce the features of the new catalog to NW customers. During this event, customers were given a tutorial on the basic functions of the catalog and a few tips on searching and reserving materials. Customers were also given the opportunity to ask questions of the trained staff to help them use the resources more effectively.

2014/12/23 Northwest Library 2014/12/23

Let's Talk About it, Oklahoma! Play Ball

With the assistance of Development, NW is hosting a series of book discussions that are led by a humanities scholar through a grant from the Oklahoma Humanities Council. This series of book discussions will span five months from January through May of 2015. During these sessions, customers will hear a presentation from a humanities scholar and have small group discussions led by skilled librarians. This event supports the upcoming baseball exhibit to be held at RE in March.

2014/12/23 Northwest Library 2014/12/23

Spoticus Breakfast Cultivation Event

In May of 2014, the Development Department worked with the Northwest Library to create our first “Cultivation Event.” The event theme was Breakfast with Spoticus. The event focused on inviting donors from the NW Library area, NW Library customers, and the general public to bring their children to a morning of fun in order to learn about the new Summer Reading program in total more than 65 individuals from the community attended.

2015/01/14 Development/Volunteer Services 2015/01/14

MediaSurfers

In November of 2014, the Development department secured a grant for $132,000 for the purchase of four MediaSurfers for the Capitol Hill, Almonte, Ralph Ellison, and Southern Oaks Libraries. Each MediaSurfer will contain 16 ipads that will be loaded with applications and programs for adults and children that are selected to optimize accessibility of job opportunities, educational resources, government programs, health care information, library resources, and social networks.

2015/01/14 Development/Volunteer Services 2015/01/14

Cultivation Events

To welcome our new executive director, the development department assisted the outreach department with identifying events across the library system that could serve as an opportunity for donors, community leaders and library patrons to come together to experience library services and programs.

2015/01/14 Development/Volunteer Services, Outreach and Engagement Services 2015/01/14

Jones Public Art

The Jones Public Art Committee was formed in early 2015 to select art for the soon to be built Jones Library. The committee is focusing on finding art that will be representative of that community.

2015/01/14 Development/Volunteer Services, Jones Library 2015/01/14

View our Art

A database of all the art in the Library System was launched in the fall of 2014 both on the intranet and the internet to allow the community access to view art within the Library System.

2015/01/14 Development/Volunteer Services 2015/01/14

Integrated Fund-Raising Campaign

In the fall of 2014 through 2015, the department is taking our fundraising efforts for the Library Endowment Trust to the next level by creating campaigns that include direct mail, email, and social media to ensure that individuals are able to connect to our organization in the form in which they feel the most comfortable.

2015/01/14 Development/Volunteer Services 2015/01/14

Build Library Supporters!

In the Summer of 2014, the Development department began our first integrated media campaign to provide self-identified community members with more information about how to support their library. The campaign used email and social media tools.

2015/01/14 Development/Volunteer Services 2015/01/14

After School @ Your Library Funding Secured

The development department secured a grant for $12,500 for the “After School at Your Library” program to allow children to work with artists to explore their creativity and take pride in their Library.

2015/01/14 Development/Volunteer Services, Outreach and Engagement Services 2015/01/14

Increase programming for Tweens

Provide programming other than LEGO club for young people between storytimes and teen activities.

2013/12/11 Warr Acres Library 2015/03/06

Maintain relationships with local schools

To encourage lifelong learning, librarians will continue to promote reading and library use at local schols by visiting the six elementary schools in our service area, at least one middle school, and the nearest high school during 2014-15 fiscal year.

2013/10/07 Warr Acres Library 2015/03/16

Downtown Library hosts 45th Infantry Museum display

The Downtown Library featured a display in the large front entry display case containing items from the local 45th Infantry Museum. The display appeared in the What's Up Downtown newsletter, on the MLS Facebook page, and there was also an article in the Oklahoman.
http://newsok.com/ronald-j.-norick-downtown-library-hosts-45th-infantry-...

2015/04/06 Downtown Library 2015/04/06

Community involvement

The Capitol Hill Library will continue to be a dedicated presence in the South Oklahoma City area, and will show our dedication by our involvement with civic leaders and the surrounding community.

2014/01/01 Capitol Hill Library 2015/04/15

Detailed online calendar entries

Capitol Hill Library staff will provide detailed information when writing entries for the online calendar of events, which in turn will assist MaC in their ability to write a press release, a social media post, design fliers or ads, or write entries for the INFO magazine.

2014/01/01 Capitol Hill Library 2015/04/15

Encourage and assist efforts to provide for a new facility

Staff will continue to ensure a welcoming experience for current customers while assisting in the planning stages for a new building.

2014/01/01 Capitol Hill Library 2015/04/15

Provide warm welcomes

New card holders will receive “Welcome packets” from staff which contain information about the resources and services available from the Metropolitan Library System, as well as calendars and details about Capitol Hill Library’s programs and events.

2014/01/01 Capitol Hill Library 2015/04/15

Sharpen technology skills, knowledge, and abilities

Staff at the Capitol Hill Library will sharpen their existing abilities for finding, evaluating, and using information by participating in training and workshops throughout the year.

Workshops and training attended by staff:

2014/01/01 Capitol Hill Library 2015/04/15

Support curiosity and nurture lifelong learning

Our library will provide culturally enriching programs and activities which promote literacy and learning

2014/01/01 Capitol Hill Library 2015/04/19

Create an inviting physical space

  • Repositioned Children's DVDs so our customers could more easily browse them.
  • Moved Children's audiobooks and removed shelf dividers making them more attractive and easier to browse.
  • Removed shelf dividers from Reserve shelves, Adult audiobook and DVD shelves, making them more attractive and easier to clean.
  • Moved Children's magazines so they could be displayed face up, making them more appealing and easier to locate.
  • Reshelved Adult audiobooks to make them easier to browse and clean.
2014/11/18 Belle Isle Library 2015/04/27

Create an inviting physical space

•Removed accumulated posters and signage from walls.
•Removed wall mounted toys from remote corner of the Children's area.
•Painted Children's area.
•Moved shelves in Children's area to create a defined area for Story Times.
•Moved Story Time programs from downstairs meeting rooms to Children's area. Story Times now take place in an area surrounded by books.

2015/04/27 Belle Isle Library 2015/04/27

Ensure a Welcoming Experience

We will be contacting local businesses and apartment complexes about their willingness to serve as publicity sites.

2012/10/01 Warr Acres Library 2015/06/09
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