We have a goal each summer to create memorable programs for every member of our community, whether they are 0 or 100! We hope to bring joy along with some educational elements to what we offer every summer - after all, summer is a time for family, fun, and relaxation. The success in reaching this goal can be quantified by boring numbers: How many people came to the library? 7500 How many books were checked out? 16,120 How many programs did we have? 138 How many people attended our programs? 1,236
The numbers go on and on and on. But when we look at our library and how we truly measure success, it reaches so far beyond the numbers. Our success is shown on the faces of families that we often only see in the summer. We don’t need numbers to measure the giggles we hear and looks of awe when our young patrons attend one of our programs.
How can we focus on numbers when millions of bubbles are floating around a gazebo full of happy, dancing kids? The experience of delight when a child gets to pet a snake, or a parent shrieking at the sight of a hissing cockroach, or eyes of wonder when a science experiment comes to life. Those experiences are immeasurable.
To every one of you who came to the library this summer, downloaded an eBook, attended a program, or picked up your child’s summer reading book - each one of you made our summer a success. And while we know school is starting soon and all the afterschool activities will keep you busy, we do hope to see you all sooner than next summer.
