The Hills Shire Library service has been ranked first in the state for stock turnover, notching up 6.88 loans per item held, according to the State Library of NSW’s recently released performance figures for public libraries for 2014/15.
More than 1.07 million visits were paid to Hills libraries in the 12-month period, with 1.33 million loans processed and 87,256 information requests satisfied.
A whopping 32,505 loans were processed per staff member – far greater than the state average of 17,970.
Events were popular with 1,075 conducted, serving 30,368 participants. Technology use is on the rise with wireless internet sessions increasing by more than 25 per cent to 214,924 across the service.
“Clearly, these fantastic results show how much we love our libraries in the Hills,” Mayor Keane said.
“Our staff and volunteers are careful to purchase stock that is in high demand and relevant to user needs – and this shows in the results achieved,” Mayor Keane said.
Mayor Keane said the Hills Shire Library service means more to locals than simply borrowing books.
“People are making the most of the library as a place to connect, a space to study and learn, and to enjoy events like author talks and school holiday clubs,” she said.
“Indeed, the Vinegar Hill Memorial Library at Rouse Hill Town Centre is my children’s absolute favourite place to be on a Saturday morning. We sit and read five books each together before they choose their borrowings and we head off to a local cafe for hot chocolate,” Mayor Keane said.
“Our libraries are such an integral part of the lifestyle we love in the Hills,” she said.
“I had the joy of reading to children at story time recently, helping to introduce pre-schoolers to a love of literature and using their imagination,” Mayor Keane said.
“Our libraries are an amazing example of a truly connected and inclusive community, and I congratulate everyone who has worked so hard to achieve these excellent results,” she said.
For more details visit : www.thehills.nsw.gov.au
