Avalon Library Books Community’s Interest

AVALON — “It’s really evolving into something a little different than we anticipated,” Norman Gluckman, director of the Avalon Free Public Library (AFPL) told the Herald Oct. 25.
“We’re becoming a focal point for the community, not just a service.”
Celebrating two years of operation in November, the AFPL boasts an extensive audio and video collection with a circulation almost as large as the print, free public computer terminals with internet access and a free wireless network, lectures, workshops, seminars, and author readings for both children and adults, and this summer even took on the ambitious task of bringing the Bay Atlantic Symphony Orchestra to town for three highly attended concerts.
Located on the borough’s campus-like collection of land at the causeway entrance which includes Borough Hall, Avalon School, the current Police and Fire stations and a new multi-million dollar Public Safety complex project, the AFPL is a bright and open space adjacent to the school at 32nd Street — a popular year round destination for both residents and visitors in a few short years.
With 6,100 registered patrons as of September 2007, library circulation has increased from 32,554 in 2005 to 88,065 as of September of this year.
Gluckman said he foresees circulation reaching 100,000 by December.
“I don’t think anyone could have anticipated the success we have had,” Gluckman told the Herald.
The former county branch was located at 26th Street in Avalon. Borough residents voted to break from the county system in 2002, an AFPL Board of Trustees was incorporated in 2003, and an interlocal agreement was formed between the borough, the school district and the new library in 2004.
The new library was incorporated with renovations of the school and opened in November 2005.
A three-year strategic plan was adopted by the board including plans to build a collection that meets the peoples’ needs, commitment to public service, expanded programming, and building support such as “Friends of Library” program.
This year the plan was reviewed and expanded to project five years time.
Immediate goals for 2008 include establishment of a “Friends of the Library” group and consolidation of the Avalon Museum and Historical Society in to the library.
According to Gluckman, the Avalon Historical Society and the library have drafted a “memo of understanding” signed between the two organizations and some time in 2008 the two will be united.
Other ongoing projects are increased circulation, new technologies, databases, stream audio/video, and developing the school’s juvenile collection.
He said some goals they have already achieved are an increased staff and hours of operation, addition of an after-hours drop box and printer access vending machine, and redesign of the website.
One unique service of this small-town facility is the provision of free delivery and pick-up of library materials for people who cannot make it to the library for health reasons.
Gluckman said one of the only problems he feels may be most imminent with the facility is also its biggest asset; the high-ceiling open space which in busy summer months has proved worrisome for some people looking for quiet. Overall Gluckman said he is pleased with the progress.
“Programs range from story time at Mary’s Day-care to symphony concerts,” Gluckman said. “We’ve exceeded all expectations.”
Property owners and residents of the county may register for a free AFPL card. Members of Absecon, Margate, Ocean City, Northfield, Linwood and Atlantic City libraries may also receive free cards. Non-county residents may purchase a seasonal card for $20, as is the policy within the county system.
For information contact (609) 967-7155.
Contact Gillin-Schwartz at (609) 886-8600 Ext 24 or at: mschwartz@cmcherald.com.