Libraries Enrich our Lives

Andrew Carnegie, an industrialist and philanthropist who led the expansion of the American steel industry in the late 19^th century said, “A library outranks any other one thing a community can do to benefit its people.  It is a never failing spring in the desert."  According to the American Library Association (ALA), libraries in America are cornerstones of the communities they serve.  The ALA states that free access to the books, ideas, resources, and information in America's libraries is imperative for education, employment, enjoyment and self-government. 

In Palm Beach County, the mission of the Library System is to connect communities, inspire thought, and enrich lives.  This special taxing district provides library services to unincorporated areas of the County and 24 municipalities including the North County communities of Juno Beach, Jupiter, Jupiter Inlet Colony, Palm Beach Gardens, Palm Beach Shores, and Tequesta.

The Library System offers in-person and online services at 17 locations, Bookmobile stops, and lends educational kits to childcare facilities.  Millions of physical items, including books, DVDs, audiobooks, music CDs, and read-aloud story times and book discussions are available to library members of all ages.  The Summer Reading Program, held virtually this year, helps students maintain their reading progress as they approach the next school year.

Despite disruptions due to COVID-19, the Library System provided continuous service throughout the year and transitioned services to meet community needs.  There are no longer late fees charged on overdue materials, and enhanced remote access, in-person service and curbside pickup have been available to residents.  More than 9,500 people registered for temporary e-cards during March, April and May of 2020, and 2.35 million people visited the Library last year.  Palm Beach County's Library System also garnered Hoopla's #1 library in Florida for users and loans, and #5 in the U.S.

Resources include the Small Business Reference Center, and access to job information, interviewing tips and resume writing, financial publications, demographics and legal codes, cases and forms.  Consumer health information, social services applications and technology training, as well as an extensive adult education program is available.  The Library System hosts naturalization ceremonies for permanent residents to become U.S. citizens, and provide opportunities for community members and organizations to become involved with the Library through volunteer efforts and partnerships.  They have also begun to process passport applications as of January this year.

For the 12^th year in a row, the Library System has presented a balanced budget at the current millage rate of .5491, which they have maintained for 12 years.  Reserves of 10 percent will be set aside to cover costs associated with emergencies and unforeseen events, including disasters.  The capital improvements fund is planning for $12.6 million in anticipated renovations due to age and use of buildings, and reserves for future large projects.  As the County continues to grow, the Library System will plan for additional expansion projects.

With so many resources, courses, and activities free for the asking, I encourage you to become a Library member.  It will enrich your life.

If I can be of assistance to you, please let me know by calling 561-355-2201 or send an email to mmarino@pbcgov.org.