Local public library's circulation on the rise

Usage of the Alleghany County Public Library has increased this year, both in number of patrons and circulation volume.

For fiscal year 2001 (July 2000 through June 2001), the library reported 49,623 materials circulated, up from 42,156 in 2000. Circulation was 47,016 for 1999.

Branch Librarian Debbie Brewer said that in October (the latest figures available), the library had 6,308 registered borrowers, 4,997 adults and 1,311 juveniles. That represents an increase from 5,707 last year and 5,290 in 1999.

The rise was despite the fact that the library deleted some old users from its records, said Brewer. She explained that the library has to pay a fee for each patron on its books, even those who are inactive. She said the increase of library usage might be due to recent economic downturns. "When people are not working, they have more time to read." As displaced workers have sought education and re-training, the library helps provide resources. "We try to work closely with the community college, to get information for people when they need it," Brewer said.

"Usually when people come in for one thing, they do another (also)."

That includes use of computers and the Internet. This year the library received four new computers, including one in Spanish, as well as a server, a laser printer, software and training through a grant from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.

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