The McKune Memorial Library in Chelsea has been named the "Best Small Library in America" by Library Journal magazine.
Now in its fourth year, this annual award co-sponsored by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation encourages and showcases the exemplary work of public libraries serving populations of less than 25,000.
Each year Library Journal solicits entries for the award from libraries whose high standards, innovative services and commitment to their community mark them as extraordinary.
The McKune Library, which serves more than 14,000 residents in the city of Chelsea and Dexter, Lima, Lyndon and Sylvan townships as the Chelsea District Library, was chosen this year for its team-oriented approach that attracts a high number of volunteers and fosters ongoing innovation.
Judges also noted the impressive use of its renovated historic facility; creative outreach programs that include book and movie discussions and monthly themed luncheons for seniors; kids and teen-oriented programs; and aggressive adoption of technology to improve patrons' experience and increase public access to computers and the Internet.
The library's research efforts have been central to its outstanding service to the community. By surveying patrons, the library was able to serve the community based on specific needs.
"The library conducted phenomenal surveying to see what the community wanted, and then responded, ... " wrote Deborah Jacobs, Seattle's city librarian and a judge on the selection committee as well as a former LJ Librarian of the Year.
Bill Harmer, Head of Adult Services at the McKune Library, said the library staff is trying to reach all facets of the community.
"We realized that in order for the public library to make a difference, we had to make a conscious effort to sell our ideas, services, and programs by getting involved in the community and building those meaningful relationships," Harmer said, "whether it's the schools, a business, church, senior center, or even the model railroading club."
This responsiveness inspired great programming and has helped to garner increased community support that, at $92.44 per library district resident, is vital to the library's success.
The library recently modernized and doubled the size of the historic former McKune home, increased the number of paid staff, initiated additional user-friendly services and installed the newest technologies.
"We are beyond thrilled to have been selected for this prestigious award," said Library Director Joan Elmouchi.
"It's a testament to the dedication and innovation of the staff, library board, and citizens served by the Chelsea District Library."
The library will receive a $15,000 cash award from the Gates Foundation, conference costs for two library representatives to attend the 2008 Public Library Association (PLA) meeting in Minneapolis, and a gala reception at PLA.
The Gates Foundation, founded by Microsoft creator Bill Gates and his wife, Melinda French Gates, works to reduce inequities and improve lives around the world.
In developing countries, it focuses on improving health, reducing extreme poverty, and increasing access to technology in public libraries.
In the United States, the foundation seeks to ensure that all people have access to a great education and to technology in public libraries.
"We are pleased to see the Chelsea District Library receive the honor of Best Small Library in America," said Jill Nishi, manager of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation's U.S. Libraries initiative.
"Chelsea serves as a strong role model for other small libraries throughout the country that are striving to successfully plan for and sustain innovative services that improve people's lives, such as high-quality computer and Internet workstations."
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