Annual Report
Visit the Library for Half Off Fines Week, April 5-10!
The Library is here, adding to the quality of life,
even in difficult times.
The Library offers significant value.
For every $1 in taxes paid by citizens, Washington-Centerville Public Library offers $4 in value.
The more you use the library, the more return for your tax dollar!
The Library is OPEN to serve you.
Despite challenges posed by COVID-19, Washington-Centerville Public Library reopened, and reinstated in-person services, as soon as safely possible. Library facilities, adapted with safety measures like partitions at service desks and social distancing and safety signage, welcomed 200,000 visitors in 2020.
The Library offers a wealth of free resources.
A robust collection of physical and digital books, movies, music and more provides entertainment, escape and enlightenment for citizens. Nearly 1.4 million items were checked out in 2020. Digital items accounted for 1 out of every 4 items checked out and provided important access to those staying at home during COVID-19.
“The eCollection has been an absolute lifesaver for me. I would not have survived without it.” -Squire B.
Washington-Centerville Public Library cardholders check out, on average, 21 items per person, three times the national average!
A safe and simple Curbside Hold Pickup service was implemented in May 2020. More than 9,000 pickups were fulfilled using this no-contact service. To utilize Curbside Hold Pickup, simply reserve materials online, wait for notification that items are ready, and visit the Library to pickup.
“Probably the smoothest curbside pickup service I’ve done. Very happy to have some new print books to complement my digital loans. Thank you for getting this set up.” -Rae R.
The Library supports job seekers
Helpful librarians connect job seekers, and those looking to grow new skills, with free resources and events to help them accomplish their goals.
“We educate and develop staff in various ways and the online learning resources are perfect!” -Arnie Biondo, Centerville-Washington Park District
The Library grows new readers.
Children’s librarians at Washington-Centerville Public Library work hard to get children off to a good start by growing early literacy skills.
Virtual Storytimes
Storytime didn’t stop just because we couldn’t gather in person. Pre-recorded and live virtual storytimes made it possible for children to see their favorite librarians and gain early literacy skills.
Virtual Reading Clubs
The Library quickly transformed the traditional Summer Reading Club to an online experience in an effort to prevent ‘summer slide’ and encourage summer reading. Over 1,200 children registered and more than 400 completed the club by spending either 30 hours reading or reading 60 books. A first-ever Fall Reading Program encouraged 600+ students to continue reading after summer had ended.
“I just want to say I appreciate all of the hard work you are doing for us. My daughter still loved doing the summer reading club even if we didn’t get to come in.” -mom of Children’s Summer Reading Club participant
The Library works with schools to support learning.
Kitchens became classrooms and parents became co-teachers in 2020 as schools shifted to online learning. Washington-Centerville Public Library worked hand in hand with schools to support local families.
Educator Support
Professionally trained teachers, new homeschooling parents, and all parents assisting students at home can find support via library online resources like lesson plans, homework help, and supplemental educational content.
Free Resources
From free WiFi inside the library to free access to subscription-based online databases, the Library works to bridge the digital divide and remove barriers to resources needed to succeed in school.
The Library connects citizens through engaging programs.
Washington-Centerville Public Library offered more than 800 opportunities to learn and connect via engaging programs. More than 26,000 citizens attended a program in person or virtually.
A pair of spy-themed digital escape rooms give people a way to break free of the confines of home. In 2020, more than 135,000 people around the globe have participated.
“We are enjoying your 'spy apprentice' escape. Thanks from a family in the UK” -Becca C.
Book discussions hosted via web conference, interactive teen and family trivia nights, and movie watch parties are just some of the online events connecting citizens.
“Thanks for giving us something to look forward to. I have really enjoyed our two book discussions.” -Linda R.
“We had a great time with our two kids (14 and 15-years old). It was a great family activity and we learned a lot too!” -Dan L., Virtual Family Trivia Night attendee
“This was really fun and help with the Coronablues!” -Laura S., Kanopy Movie Night participant
The Library connects citizens through engaging programs.
Washington-Centerville Public Library offered more than 800 opportunities to learn and connect via engaging programs. More than 26,000 citizens attended a program in person or virtually.
A pair of spy-themed digital escapes room give people a way to break free of the confines of home. In 2020, more than 135,000 people around the globe have participated.
“We are enjoying your 'spy apprentice' escape. Thanks from a family in the UK” -Becca C.
Book discussions hosted via web conference, interactive teen and family trivia nights, and movie watch parties are just some of the online events connecting citizens.
“Thanks for giving us something to look forward to. I have really enjoyed our two book discussions.” -Linda R.
“We had a great time with our two kids (14 and 15-years old). It was a great family activity and we learned a lot too!” -Dan L., Virtual Family Trivia Night attendee
“This was really fun and help with the Coronablues!” -Laura S., Kanopy Movie Night participant
The Library reflects the community’s values.
Washington-Centerville Public Library is consistently ranked as a 5 Star Library by Library Journal’s Index of Public Library Service. This rating is a reflection of the community’s commitment to supporting the Library, both through a 3.0 mil local operating levy, which provides 66% of the Library’s funding, and through avid usage.
