As 2023 draws to a close, we at the Aurora Public Library District (APLD) take a moment to reflect on a year brimming with growth, engagement, and community spirit. Together, we have transformed lives and strengthened our community thanks to the incredible generosity you have shown throughout the year. Let’s rewind and celebrate some of the milestones we achieved together this year.
One innovative addition is the introduction of notary services in January 2023. “Staff were advocating on behalf of customers by requesting we add this service,” said Eola Road Branch manager, Krista Danis. “That is what compelled further investigation into the need and possibilities.” Now, customers can conveniently get their important documents notarized at the Library instead of waiting in line at a bank or store. Since launching this service we have completed more than 500 notary appointments. Speaking of making things more convenient, the Library expanded its hours this Summer! In the past, all Library locations were closed Sundays during the Summer. Now Sunday hours are consistent all year long and contribute to an amazing 426,785 Library visits.
On the digital front, we launched a new website in August with greater accessibility and more user-friendly navigation. We added chat software to our website to make it easier for customers to get answers to their questions. This year we had more than 600 chats and 365,000 website visits, and answered 64,715 questions from all users. We implemented new software for our online catalog. Its intuitive search feature allows customers to browse the vast collection, place holds, renew books, and even access digital materials such as books and audiobooks, all from the comfort of home. “I’m so proud of how ambitious we are and of how we handled all these new initiatives,” said executive director, Michaela Haberkern.
Certainly the biggest new addition this past year was the arrival of our highly-anticipated Bookmobile! “My favorite 2023 memory was speaking at the new Bookmobile ribbon-cutting ceremony and officially welcoming everyone inside to see how spectacular it is,” said Outreach Services manager, Jessica Cantarero. Our state-of-the-art bookmobile hit the streets in early October, ready to bring Library resources to every corner of Aurora. From cozy reading nooks to digital access, this mobile marvel will ensure that everyone has a piece of library magic. Having a reliable vehicle allows staff persons to do what they are meant to do: Share the Library with others. “When I arrived at Prairie View Montessori for our first storytime since May, one of the kids said, “Look, it’s Story Girl! I think maybe I should update my name tag to say that!” said Outreach Services Library assistant, Courtney Nurczyk. “I was so glad the kids remembered me after all that time and had such excitement for my storytime visit.” Storytimes alone saw more than 7,260 attendees, and that was only part of the 9,732 programs offered this year.
In addition to more usual Library initiatives such as issuing 5,025 new Library cards, circulating 1.5 million items and E-materials, and host to 42,216 internet sessions, 13,958 study-room reservations and 19,713 database sessions, the Library sought new partnerships and ways to improve our community and experience at the Library. In a new partnership with the ZamZam Foundation and its Period Poverty initiative, the Library supported its cause by providing free menstrual products in bathrooms at all locations. These contributions have made a real difference in the lives of our community members and will continue to do so into next year.
Looking ahead, we invite you to join us in 2024 as we embark on new initiatives and build upon the successes of this remarkable year. Just this month, APLD received a grant from Comcast for $30,000 to be used toward a Digital Navigator program and digital resources in 2024. “Comcast’s support will help us equip our customers with the resources and training that will put them on a path to success in our digital world,” said Haberkern at the presentation.
We welcome you to APLD; a place where stories come alive, knowledge thrives, and connections grow. Together, let’s make 2024 a year of even greater impact, one book, one event, one smile at a time!
Thank you for supporting the Aurora Public Library District!
Andrea Tiberi is the communications coordinator for the Aurora Public Library District.