The Hiawatha Public Library, located in Hiawatha, Iowa, is a vital community resource that provides a wide range of services and materials to its patrons. The library is a member of the Cedar Rapids Public Library system and is governed by a board of trustees appointed by the City of Hiawatha. With a strong commitment to serving the community, the Hiawatha Public Library offers a diverse collection of books, audiobooks, e-books, magazines, newspapers, and other media.
History and Development
The Hiawatha Public Library was established in 1957, with a small collection of books and a single librarian. Over the years, the library has grown and evolved to meet the changing needs of the community. In 1996, the library moved to its current location, a 12,000-square-foot building that features a spacious reading area, a children’s section, and a community meeting room. The library has continued to expand its services and collections, including the addition of digital media and online resources.
Services and Programs
The Hiawatha Public Library offers a variety of services and programs for patrons of all ages. These include storytime sessions for children, book clubs for adults, and summer reading programs for kids and teens. The library also provides access to online resources, such as language learning tools, test preparation materials, and digital magazines. Additionally, the library offers free Wi-Fi, public computers, and printing and scanning services. The library’s community meeting room is available for use by local organizations and groups, and the library often hosts author readings, book signings, and other literary events.
| Service | Description |
|---|---|
| Checkout Services | Borrow books, audiobooks, e-books, magazines, and other media |
| Research Assistance | Get help with research projects and finding information |
| Computer Access | Use public computers and access the internet for free |
| Printing and Scanning | Print and scan documents, photos, and other materials |
| Programs and Events | Attend storytime sessions, book clubs, author readings, and other events |
Collection and Resources
The Hiawatha Public Library’s collection includes over 50,000 items, including books, audiobooks, e-books, magazines, newspapers, and other media. The library also provides access to online resources, such as digital magazines, language learning tools, and test preparation materials. The library’s collection is continually updated to reflect the changing needs and interests of the community, with a focus on popular fiction and nonfiction titles, as well as materials for children and teens.
Technical Services
The Hiawatha Public Library uses a variety of technical services to support its operations and provide services to patrons. These include an integrated library system (ILS) for managing the library’s collection and circulation, as well as online resources and digital media platforms. The library also uses social media and other online tools to promote its services and engage with the community.
In terms of technical specifications, the Hiawatha Public Library's ILS is provided by SirsiDynix, a leading vendor of library software and services. The library's online resources and digital media platforms include OverDrive for e-books and audiobooks, Lynda.com for online learning, and PubMed for health and medical research. The library's public computers and Wi-Fi network are supported by a Cisco router and Dell computers.
| Technical Service | Provider |
|---|---|
| Integrated Library System (ILS) | SirsiDynix |
| E-book and Audiobook Platform | OverDrive |
| Online Learning Platform | Lynda.com |
| Health and Medical Research Database | PubMed |
| Public Computers and Wi-Fi Network | Cisco and Dell |
Performance Analysis and Future Implications
The Hiawatha Public Library’s performance is evaluated based on a variety of metrics, including circulation statistics, program attendance, and user surveys. The library’s annual report provides a detailed analysis of its services and programs, as well as its financial performance. In terms of future implications, the library is likely to continue to evolve and adapt to the changing needs of the community, with a focus on emerging technologies and innovative services.
Evidence-Based Decision Making
The Hiawatha Public Library uses evidence-based decision making to inform its planning and operations. This includes analyzing data and research on library trends and best practices, as well as conducting user surveys and focus groups to gather feedback and input from the community. By using data and evidence to drive its decision making, the library is able to make informed decisions that support its mission and goals.
In terms of future directions, the Hiawatha Public Library is likely to focus on emerging technologies and innovative services, such as virtual reality and artificial intelligence. The library may also explore new partnerships and collaborations with other community organizations and agencies, such as schools and nonprofits. By staying ahead of the curve and embracing new technologies and trends, the library can continue to provide high-quality services and resources to the community.
What are the library’s hours of operation?
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The library is open Monday through Thursday from 9:00 am to 8:00 pm, Friday from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm, and Saturday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. The library is closed on Sundays and holidays.
How do I get a library card?
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To get a library card, you will need to provide proof of residency and a valid form of identification. You can apply for a library card in person at the library or online through the library’s website.
What types of materials can I borrow from the library?
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The library offers a wide range of materials for borrowing, including books, audiobooks, e-books, magazines, newspapers, and other media. You can browse the library’s collection online or in person to find the materials you need.
