Juliane Morian provided an insightful presentation on the library.
The Rochester Library was founded in 1924 and since it's inception it has prided itself on empowering people to explore and create with resources that enlighten, educate, entertain, and inform. For nearly 100 years the library has served everyone in the community from early learners to business owners collectively serving five generations at the same time. The library provides accessibility to all that they offer through wifi hotspots, software, and books. They protect our community's history through their digitized archives and our future through inter-generational play. The library has managed all of these accomplishments through their dedication to their purpose, vision, and focus.
Just like the rest of the world, the library faced challenges with COVID. At this time last year the library wasn't even open. Since then they have adapted and adopted new ways to stay open while keeping the community safe. They have rebooted books by mail, developed online registration for meeting rooms, upgraded printers and scanners, expanded outreach to schools, and added a Buzz reads program.
As a positive note, the pandemic allowed them the opportunity complete a facility upgrade. Spring of 2022 will continue that upgrade with west parking lot improvements. Also on the agenda for the year to come, the library is considering going fine free. The library welcomes their newest board members Melinda Deel and Julianne Reyes.
In the age of the internet the questions arises of how the library will survive. And the answer is that the container for learning might change but as long as there is a desire to learn there will be a place for the library.
Thank you, Juliane, for a great and informative program!
