Get to know how the public library works behind-the-scenes! This year, we’ll highlight different departments and services at the Hamilton East Public Library to give you an inside glimpse into how the library serves our community.
Today, Melissa L., Library Director, and Molly M., Assistant Library Director, will explain what goes into managing the daily operations and big-picture planning for the library.
Q: Tell us about a typical day in the Administration office?
A: It is our responsibility to ensure the library runs smoothly, that the organization exceeds the expectations of our community, and that staff have what they need to provide exceptional experiences. Every day looks different as we pursue these goals but generally include meetings with vendors and consultants; planning and ongoing projects with staff, trustees, or local officials; managing communication with stakeholders, patrons, and employees (this means a lot of time answering emails!); and problem-solving issues like technology, operational challenges, and patron concerns. A lot of our work requires us to be near our computers and phones, so we both relish chances to participate in outreach events or take walks through the libraries greeting patrons and staff.
Melissa L., Library Director
Q: What’s your favorite part of your job?
A: (MM): I have worked for HEPL for 20 years, with positions in Circulation, Youth Services, and Collection Services. Each opportunity I’ve had with the library was a learning experience and a chance to serve the community in new and exciting ways. One of my favorite things is seeing Storytime families I first met over a decade ago still using and loving the library.
(ML): My favorite part of the job is helping people! I love helping people find the books they need, connecting them to a community organization to help meet their needs, or showing them how to use new technology. I get to do this from a higher level in my new role. It is a privilege and honor to serve this community.
Q: What do people not realize about the Library Director’s or Assistant Library Director’s role?
A: People may not realize that a large part of our jobs is communication. Daily, we receive and share information. We work hard to keep our staff, the community, and local officials informed about what is happening in the library.
Q: What goes into managing the library’s budget?
A: We work closely with our Chief Financial Officer, Kim Loeffler, on budget issues. She and her team oversee daily budget management. As the Director and Assistant Director, we decide how to divide up the operating budget to make sure we have enough money to cover infrastructure costs, programming, materials selection, technology, personnel, and many other things. We take fiscal responsibility seriously and prioritize spending on things that improve the patron’s experience, while planning for unexpected expenditures.
Molly M., Assistant Library Director
Q: How do you ensure that library services meet the needs of the community and how do you plan to position the library for future success?
A: Formally, we run an annual patron satisfaction survey that allows the community to give us direct feedback and let us know how the library is doing. We use this data to celebrate the positives and plan for how to address any negatives. In addition, we continually track usage and participation data that show us the types of experiences and resources our community is seeking. Informally, we are both active members in our cities and hear regularly from neighbors, friends, and community stakeholders, and we welcome all that feedback!
Positioning the library for future success means combining this usage data and feedback with forecasts for what Hamilton County will look like in 5+ years. We aim to be connected to major initiatives and the ambitious growth plans for both Fishers and Noblesville. One example of future planning is the feasibility study to gather feedback about potentially building a third library building. As our communities grow and change, we need to grow and change alongside them. We are committed to the public library remaining relevant and accessible to the residents of Fishers and Noblesville.
Q: How can people connect with you to share their thoughts or learn more about the management of the library?
A: The easiest way to contact us is by email. Melissa can be reached at [email protected] and Molly can be reached at [email protected].
Thank you, Melissa and Molly! Stay tuned to the HEPL blog each month to learn more about the library behind-the-scenes!