Pima County Public Library Annual Report 2020-21

Each year, Pima County Public Library releases an annual report, which, contrary to popular opinion about such reports, is both entertaining and informative, and provides an on-the-ground look at what makes the library special. Various staff write about serving their community, volunteers participate in Q&As, and customers share inspiring stories about their relationship with the public library. The report is so beautifully designed that staff at 27 branches put them out for display and, quite often, run out. The purpose of the work is two-fold—to demonstrate to community leaders the inherent value of the library, boost staff morale, and, of course, to show the community that we are invested in their stories, not just circulation numbers.

Our solution absolutely meets the goal. We receive attention both locally—from Pima County administrators and other leaders—and nationally—the Urban Libraries Council (an innovative network of more than 160 leading North American public libraries based in Washington, DC) regularly features our annual report in their blog. Another thing to note is our commitment to producing the report. During the pandemic, when libraries were closed and, following, hours were reduced, we decided to publish an online version so people could still access it. We received praise for this effort, as it was especially significant during a time when social isolation was a difficult barrier. It allowed customers to connect with us and our innovative work even when they weren’t physically present in our buildings.