E-books, Legos, High Circulation and Clogged Toilets at the Marion Public Library

E-books, circulation, use of space, and clogged toilets are all hot topics when it comes to the future of the Marion Public Library.

At Thursday’s Marion City Council meeting, Marion Public Library Director Doug Raber gave an annual library report, looking back on 2012 and forward to changes for the new year. Raber listed several plans library personnel are looking to implement in 2013.

Increased focus on e-books is among potential changes. Raber noted e-books are in high demand at the library, adding people often face long wait-lists to access this material. He said library personnel are committed to looking into this issue.

Space for meetings and materials is also tight, Raber said. Officials plan to take a closer look at expansion and renovation plans for the library by creating a committee to research this issue. Library personnel also re-opened the library’s second meeting room, due to community members’ increased interest in using the space.

This space can be used for library programming — which may see increases this year. Library personnel plan to focus on adding adult programming, as well as adding some children’s activities. Raber noted the Lego Club, where kids work together on creative Lego projects, usually brings a packed house to the library.

But some library patrons don't have the best intentions. Council member Craig Adamson commented on recent vandalism — particularly in the men’s bathroom. Raber said the vandal/vandals often clog the toilets with toilet paper, costing the library time and money. Adamson offered a shout-out to the community, asking the vandal to stop.

Looking back on the past year, the library saw circulation over 900,000, an unusually high number on par with libraries in Des Moines and Ames, Raber said. He also noted more than 370,000 people walked through library doors last year.

However, circulation and patronage may decrease when the Cedar Rapids Public Library re-opens. Raber said he thinks the dip may not last long, because many see the Marion Library as a desirable destination.

“They like to come to ours, because they like the interaction they get,” he said. 

Following the library's presentation, council members approved payment on bills totaling roughly $1.5 million. The bills include consulting fees, travel reimbursments, and gas and water fees, among other expenditures. 

Councillor Craig Adamson said the list of bills and cost is fairly typical for the City of Marion.