WebJunction

The Stark County junior high and high school libraries have converted to a 21st century system of managing library services with funding from a Library Services and Technology Grant (LSTA) through the Secretary of State’s office. LSTA is a federally funded grant program administered by the Institute of Museum and Library Services, a grant-making agency dedicated to creating and sustaining a nation of learners by helping libraries and museums serve their communities. Until recently, the junior and senior high libraries used the traditional card and pocket system for checking out books. But, with grant funding, the district has purchased the required technology and an upgraded Resource Sharing Alliance membership that allow all research, circulation, and records procedures to be completed online. Using the new automated services, students and teachers can locate and determine availability of books and resources in real time from other libraries. Library staff Vicki Deusinger, Janet Wilkinson, and Kathy Clifford have collaborated with library staff from the Wethersfield School District and the Toulon Public Library District to implement and maintain the new system. Additional funding for the project was provided by the Stark County Education Foundation.