The Library Journal, primary trade magazine for America’s libraries rated Pasadena Public Libraries among the highest “stars” of public library service nationwide in their February 15, 2009 edition.
The Pasadena Public Libraries received a five-star ranking, the highest rating available. No other California library in our funding tier ($10,000,000 – $29,999,999) received five stars.
“I am extremely pleased to have this national validation proving that “good enough” is not good enough, and that at the Pasadena Public Library excellence is an everyday occurrence” said Pasadena Public Library Director Jan Sanders.
Some 7,115 libraries nationwide were included in the ratings, based on data reported to their state library and compiled by the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), a federal agency. In total, 268 of these public libraries received a “star” ranking.
These ratings reflect the following relevant measures:
- How many times a year did the average person take out a book, audio, DVD, or other library material?
- How many times did the average person come into the library?
- How many times did the average person attend a library program or presentation?
- How many times did the average person use a library public access computer?
Results from these questions determine the awarding of three, four or five stars (i.e.: Michelin travel or restaurant guides) for service. It’s all about how well and how effectively the customer is served and thus is a strong check of the library’s ability to know and respond to their users.
The Pasadena Public Libraries are very pleased to be among the short list of five California libraries achieving the topmost listing of five stars. The other California libraries receiving five stars but in different funding tiers were Cerritos and Redwood City ($5,000,000 – $9,999,999); Harrison Memorial (Carmel) ($1,000,000 - $4,999,999); and St Helena ($400,000 - $999,999).
Read the complete Library Journal article.
