Statewide goals for 2009

When federal funds became available for regional library development in 1965, seven regions were established. That year the Kansas Legislature passed a bill which permitted the organization of library systems in seven regions of Kansas. The system law (KSA 75-2548 and the following) was amended in 1968 by the legislature to allow school and academic libraries to participate in regional systems of cooperating libraries. The law permitted the Systems to levy a tax on property within the boundaries of the system that is not taxed for support of a public library. Librarians and trustees in each region meet annually to determine  programs and budgets. The systems continuously develop services to meet the needs of their member libraries. The State Library of Kansas and Regional Library Systems cooperate and collaborate to improve library services to all the citizens of Kansas. The State Library and Regional Library Systems Sharred Goals for 2009 are as follows:

Goal #1 - Automation and Courier Service: Kansans have direct and rapic access to all Kansas library collections.

  • Libraries will have collections on an integrated library system
  • Libraries offer self-initiated interlibrary loan or direct borrowing from other libraries
  • A program to deliver materials among Kansas libraries will be available

Goal #2 - Continuing Education: Librarians and trustees will have the knowledge ande skills to provide excellent library service.

  • Identify and anticipate areas of continuing education needs

Goal #3 - Advocacy: Library will be relevant and visible to Kansans.

  • Build advocacy skills in librarians, patrons and trustees
  • Engage librarians and trustees in advocacy efforts
  • Support and dissiminate timely responses to issues that have statewide impact
  • Support and promote programs that enhance library visibility
  • Publicize statewide services

Goal #4 - On-line Resources: Libraries meet the informational and educational needs of every Kansan through access to a broad array of on-line library resources.

  • Regional systems collaborate with the library community in the selection of databases
  • Provide training to librarians
  • Provide information for patrons
  • Market to constituent/patrons
  • Enhance access thropugh federated searching and improved public interface

Goal #5 - State Standards for Public Libraries: Public Libraries use state standards to improve resources and services to Kansans.

  • Review and revise existing standards
  • Provide information to librarians and trustees