Evolution of a library system: Marigold focuses on programs

Miriam Ostermann
Times Associate Editor

 

The role of the Marigold Library System in the community and among its members underwent some changes in recent years, moving away from being recognized as only a book reservoir and adapting to the soaring demand for programming among its 37 public library members.
Marigold, which is not a public library but provides services to libraries in 44 different municipalities, now loans out 55 free kits and programs to its members, allowing especially smaller libraries in Wheatland County to stay afloat and thrive. Having communicated with the six other library systems in the province, Marigold claims to be the only institution placing a strong emphasis on providing free programming.
“First there were books and then came computers, and yes that became a core activity, but along the way all of us adopted the idea that programs were very much a core activity,” said Michelle Toombs, CEO of Marigold Library System.
“So we noticed here in Marigold that our people don’t always have the time or the materials to put on programs, and yet it’s very important to do that and it’s also very rewarding because you bring the community together.”
The library system, which is based in Strathmore, received a budget of $4,977,426 this year, out of which $5,000 is allocated to kits and programs. While Marigold spent $4,279 last year, the staff is planning to expand their programming this year.
“The more we put out the more they’re going to use because some of the libraries, like the tiny libraries, they just appreciate that,” said Barb Froese, library services assistant. “They don’t have a budget for that. Even though we can get our items at a reasonable cost, they’re just so grateful. Even the bigger libraries, like Airdrie, really utilize our kits, and they’re a huge library, but for them it just works.”
The kits are dedicated to in-house library programs, special events, or for display. Whether utilizing the life-size Jenga games, craft kits, MakerSpace kits, the prize wheel, or the recently purchased karaoke machine, the Strathmore Municipal Library, while serving Strathmore’s population of over 13,000, understands the value of the service. Without the availability of the karaoke machine, the library would’ve been unable to offer their popular Karaoke Dance Party program during spring break this year.
“We’re considered one of the larger libraries but there are a lot of small libraries in the Marigold Library System and they just don’t have the funds to be able to purchase a lot of these kinds of equipment and resources,” said Carmen Erison, assistant director of library services at the Strathmore Municipal Library.
“Where they can’t get that equipment they then turn to Marigold Library System, that has all of these tools and gadgets and resources. We are so tight on storage around here that we don’t have to worry about finding a place to store this but we can still bring in this product and use it with our patrons.”
The objective to provide free programming to its members is part of the Marigold Library System’s strategic plan for 2016 to 2018. The organization also recently applied for the Minister’s Award for Excellence in Pubic Library Service, by entering their submission on Minecraft – a computer game where players use blocks and their imagination to create and explore in a Minecraft world. According to Toombs, it was the first attempt at providing a networked environment on a wider scale including patrons from all ages across the Marigold region. Furthermore, the system hired a program specialist to teach the game, while supporting staff and the public by offering training, organizing program event and competitions. Winners for the awards will be announced at the Alberta Library Conference starting on April 28.