Public-private partnership is paying dividends

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Public-private partnership is paying dividends

Opinions

Wednesday, 25 April 2012 11:14

John Quiñones
Osceola County Commission chairman

A bold, ground-breaking partnership with a private company to operate the Osceola Library System passed its 100-day mark Sunday (April 15) and is already leading to reduced costs, a flow of new books and more access for all residents.

I believe in the library’s mission. As Abraham Lincoln said, “A capacity, and taste, for reading, gives access to whatever has already been discovered by others.’’
Osceola County was the first in the state to enter into a relationship with a private company (Library Systems and Services Inc.) to manage the system. For this reason, I believe that funding and the future of the operation of our libraries are secure because of the Board of County Commissioners’ action. Residents need to know that there is plenty of good news about the Osceola Library System.
First, it’s about the books. Orders for materials have been going out regularly for the last eight weeks and shelves are filling up with bestsellers and new releases. More than 4,200 new items have arrived and more than 8,500 books have been ordered.
Next, it’s about the people. The “Hot off the Press” program expands the availability of new books and bestsellers to library patrons, while maintaining the popular hold system.
Denise Galarraga, the new director, has already held meet-and-greets at each library branch. Library amnesty week included a “Fees for Food” program in partnership with the Green Bag Project that helped the community’s children in need.
What about the employees? I’m pleased to say that all of the Osceola Library System employees were offered positions with the new company and the majority accepted those offers. And all of the employees were hired at the same salary they had with the county.
The contract will not impact the county’s eligibility for grant funds, according to a letter received last month from the State Library. Osceola County remains eligible to receive the State Aid to Libraries Grant, E-Rate funding, and LSTA grants.
The Board of County Commissioners is also looking toward the future – a future filled with promise for library patrons. The county recently broke ground on a West Osceola Branch in Celebration.
Discussions are under way with the county’s IT department on how to improve capacity and connectivity for library patrons.
One of the most significant things on the horizon is the development of a new strategic plan for the libraries. Members for a planning committee are currently being sought. This process will also include focus group meetings with input from the public, so be sure to watch for announcements for those meetings in the weeks ahead.
Overall, I am confident that the Osceola Library System will continue its role of serving residents in a progressive and inclusive manner.
John Quiñones represents Osceola County Commission district 2.