About Bridges Library System (formerly Waukesha County Federated Library System)
Bridges Library System (formerly Waukesha County Federated Library System) is a non-profit organization that serves the libraries of Waukesha and Jefferson Counties. The organization was established in 1980 to provide support services to the public libraries in these counties. Since then, Bridges Library System has been working tirelessly to promote literacy, lifelong learning, and access to information for all residents of these counties.
The mission of Bridges Library System is to connect people with ideas and information by providing high-quality library services that meet the changing needs of its communities. The organization achieves this mission by collaborating with member libraries, community organizations, and other stakeholders to develop innovative programs and services that enhance the quality of life for residents.
One of the key functions of Bridges Library System is resource sharing. Through its interlibrary loan program, member libraries can borrow materials from other libraries within the system as well as from outside sources. This ensures that patrons have access to a wide range of resources regardless of their location or library affiliation.
In addition to resource sharing, Bridges Library System provides a variety of other services and programs designed to support member libraries in their efforts to serve their communities. These include:
1) Continuing education: Bridges Library System offers professional development opportunities for librarians and library staff through workshops, webinars, conferences, and other training events.
2) Technology support: The organization provides technical assistance for member libraries on issues related to computer hardware/software installation and maintenance as well as website design/development.
3) Youth services: Bridges Library System offers a variety of youth-focused programs such as summer reading clubs, storytimes, book clubs etc., which are designed not only promote literacy but also encourage children's love for reading.
4) Outreach Services: To ensure that everyone has access to library resources regardless if they can visit physically or not; outreach service brings books directly into homes or facilities like nursing homes etc., where people may be unable or unwillingly able visit physical locations
5) Marketing & Public Relations Support: To help members get more visibility in their respective communities; BLS helps them with marketing campaigns including social media management & PR activities
Bridges Library Systems' commitment towards innovation has led it towards adopting new technologies like RFID (Radio Frequency Identification), which allows patrons self-checkout options while borrowing books from any participating library within BLS network without having any human intervention required at checkout counters thus saving time & effort both ways!
Overall,Bridges Libraries Systems' dedication towards promoting literacy & lifelong learning makes it an invaluable asset for both Waukesha & Jefferson Counties' residents alike!