Fort Worth Library Plan for Decade Involves Two Closures, ThenGrowth
Four days of public discussion before advisory board vote
Norman Oder -- Library Journal, 04/12/2010
- Short-term savings
- Study aims at close analysis of local market
- No current libraries merit "regional" status
- Self-service a key
Aiming to develop flexible facilities, extend library services, maximize customer convenience, foster partnerships, “recognize today’s economic realities,” and more, the Fort Worth Library, TX, is considering a new master plan that would close two branches in the near term, while expanding services over the next decade, with six new buildings.
According to “20/20 Vision”: A Comprehensive Plan For the Fort Worth Library, the system would not grow significantly, but it would become more accessible, with 85 percent of the city’s residents—as opposed to the current 75 percent—within an eight-minute drive of a branch.
The plan was released April 9, with three public meetings scheduled over the next four days. An April 13 presentation will be combined with a meeting of the Library Advisory Board, “which could take action on the proposals following public comments,” the city said in a news release. The board recommends policies and strategies to the City Council and City Manager.
There could be some controversy, as an effort to close two branches last year prompted protests, with the City Council choosing to maintain those branches but cutting hours all around, according to the Star-Telegram.
New changes proposed
In FY 2011, two branches would be closed, saving $700,000 (according to the Star-Telegram), while service at Central Library would be improved, and hours and computer access expanded at some branches.
From FY 2012–2015, the library aims to invest “in productivity and public access technologies” and explore new service points. From 2016–2020, the library would relocate some facilities, open new full service branches and targeted service outlets (six total facilities, according to the newspaper), and renovate the rest of the buildings. By then, all libraries would have RFID, three to five self-check machines, and automated materials handling systems.
Consultants at work
The report was prepared by Buxton Company, which identified market segments in the city and best locations for new libraries, and Godfrey’s Associates, which assessed facilities.
In 2004, the library developed its first Long Range Services Plan, looking forward five years. It led to “more up-to-date, high-interest materials,” new hardware and software, as well as minor upgrades and renovations to four branches. However, neither RFID technology nor consistent signage were implemented as recommended. Nor was there space for recommended upgrades such as computer labs for branches and additional meeting rooms.
Looking at the facilities
The system currently consists of a central library downtown, two satellite libraries in housing projects, and 12 branches. A 13th branch will open this summer.
Seven of the 13 branches were built in the 1960s. Only five facilities had more than one of the eight “Modern Library Elements" identified by Godfrey’s, which include at least 16,000 square feet; shelves no more than 80% full; customer convenience self-check; and at least 150–200 square feet per FTE staffer.
While the Central Library was described as having adequate space, the teen area is too small, and the Youth Center is oversized. Among the recommendations: create a Popular Library, including media, on the Plaza Level by reducing the Youth Center and add a public computer area on the same level.
While the system has two libraries described as “regional,” the study says they don’t merit the term, and should drop it.
Among the places for alternative service is a rail station. The study also suggests considering a public/private partnership with a supermarket; a joint-use project with a community college or school library; and vending machines for books and DVDs.
