Library Continues to Be a Hot Spot

Despite Irene and the “Snowtober” storm and a troublesome computer upgrade that left us without circulation capabilities for several days, Ridgefielders continued to use their Library at an exceptionally high rate in 2011-2012.

·         Our total headcount was 373,125, just over 1,100 visitors a day.

·         Even with the advent of eBooks, Ridgefielders checked out 380,179 items.  That’s an average of 15.3 items for every person in town – well above the state average of just over 9.

·         The number of reference questions fielded went up a whopping 10%, reflecting people’s continued awareness that they can benefit from the skill and knowledge of trained librarians to navigate and analyze the glut of information in cyberspace.

·         Use of library computers was up nearly 50% and wireless sessions rose by 38%, both driven no doubt by the Library’s role as a refuge from our freak storms and their aftermath.

·         The popularity of our programs continued to skyrocket, with the number of programs and attendance at both children’s and adult events increasing significantly. As just one example, participation in the 2011 Summer Reading Program was at an all-time high of 1,553 children and teens.

Even though we will be in smaller quarters in the coming year, we encourage all of you to continue to visit your Library often!