The Library's year end statistical numbers show that 53,859 patrons visited the library in 2007 compared to the 53,273 who visited in 2006, and that computer usage has increased by 203 uses going from 3702 in 2006 to 3905 in 2007. We have seen this continued increase in computer use over the past few years.
In other notable news for 2007, the library received approval from the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners for its new Five-Year Plan (2007-2012) highlighted by the creation of a Business Center within its walls, and celebrated its 115th anniversary with its first ever Wine and Beer Tasting gala sponsored by the Friends of the Library in October. It implemented two new technology applications in July: Learning Express, an online platform of practice tests; and a router which allowed the library to go wireless.
The Children's Suntime Reading Program logged an impressive 1183 visits which was represented by 322 children, 76 of whom were young adults. And, the adults increased their participation in the adult Suntime program by 41%, tallying 169 entries.
In addition to the myriad of Children's, YA (young adult), and Adult programs staged in 2007, we had 13 YA volunteers who assisted the librarians in various ways, in addition to the seven adult volunteers whose efforts are also greatly appreciated.
In addition, the Children's Librarians gave out 13 baby kits to new Southwick Parents, and 12 birthday pencils to young patrons.
The Trustees approved a monthly dress down day for the support of the Southwick Food Pantry, and the staff, who paid $1 per month to dress down, donated nearly $135 to the pantry in December. This effort will continue in 2008. The library would like to thank all of the organizations, businesses, and individuals who supported it by making possible the wide variety of materials and programming options that were not financed as part of the library's regular budget, but were offered in 2007 through their generosity.
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