If ever there was a thought in this day and age that libraries are a thing of the past, the recent “120 Years of Connections” review published and distributed by Henderson County Public Library shows something different.
The historic library, which first opened in 1904 at the corner of South Main and Washington streets in downtown Henderson, is evolving and adapting to modern times in its mission to “connect people with resources, services and ideas that empower lives.”
Library Director Shannon Sandefur shared some of the review’s numbers from the 2023-24 fiscal year that she said indicates “an extraordinary year in our library’s long history.”
- Total circulation for the year reached “an impressive” 261,378 items, compared to 255,188 in the previous fiscal year (the first year that the library was fully back on track with its offerings following the service interruptions of the pandemic.)
“This number speaks volumes about the dedication and passion of our patrons who continue to engage with the vast resources our library offers,” she said.
- Programming is growing, both in number of programs and number of participants. In the fiscal year that came to a close at the end of June, 47,579 participants took advantage of 1,113 programs (up from 1082 the previous year.)
“These events have ranged from educational workshops and creative activities to cultural celebrations, providing something for everyone in our community,” Sandefur said.
Some recent programming examples include author events with Jack “Goose” Givens and Henderson native Neil Gower, exhibits about local history, paint and sip class, technology classes, creative writing group, book clubs, genealogy workshops, crafting, trivia contests, gaming and so much more.
- Seventeen online databases were utilized 37,105 times by patrons seeking information, research and digital content.
“This strong usage underscores the importance of our digital offerings in meeting the evolving needs of our community,” Sandefur said. In the report, the director stresses that one of the greatest missions of the library is creating connections for and with patrons.
In one example, a child who was struggling to read out loud in front of her classmates was recommended at library program called “Give A Dog A Book” where children read to therapy dogs to boost self-esteem. Over time, the child’s hesitation about reading in front of others faded.
In another, a widower and military veteran found camaraderie and fellowship through the library’s programs for veterans, including “Coffee With A Vet.” The connection to the library helped him make friends in the genealogy department who assist him with family tree research.
A third example is a patron who visits the library daily to read newspapers and said his visits help keep his mind sharp in retirement.
And yet another is an avid reader of fantasy and science fiction who was quickly running out of options in that genre. She was given a different type of book in a delivery by the mobile librarian—a series about a man walking across the country following the death of his wife. When the librarian returned for her next visit, planning to apologize for the unconventional choice, she received a heartfelt hug. The patron explained that the serendipitous choice was a perfect selection because it provided the solace and peace she needed since, unbeknownst to the librarian, she had been at the hospital with a son who was dying of cancer.
The director said the mobile library is a great way for people who can’t make it to the main library to stay connected.
“We are unveiling our new bookmobile on Saturday, Sept. 21 (10 a.m.-Noon),” Sandefur said, noting that the upgrade has improved features for accessibility, among other things.
Programming in all types of subjects, for all different age groups, and its services help keep the library moving forward.
“We are very proud of our history,” Sandefur said. “But we are definitely excited about our future. Together we will continue to make a lasting impact on the lives of everyone in Henderson County.”
