The Stories Behind the Library Statistics

You may have recently read our magazine Check It Out or received our annual appeal letter. These important publications share information about the tremendous work Sedona Public Library does in the community. We provided lists, statistics and other data because libraries across the globe are measured by things like their number of library card holders, computer sessions, visitors, programs, etc. We are proud of the work represented in these numbers, but the most compelling stories we have to tell are from you, our library patrons. It is you, your stories, and your need for our services that make this library the heart of Sedona.
 
People come to the Library on a quest of one sort or another, whether to find a recent article, download a book, finish a job application, listen to an author, or meet with a business partner. The needs of our patrons serve as our directives, and we provide the resources, assistance, and information you seek, as well as the space. Our facilities offer a simple and quiet comfort for individuals, or perfect meeting rooms for small and large groups.
 
With Sedona Public Library’s two locations—on White Bear Road in West Sedona and at Bell Rock Plaza in the Village of Oak Creek—198,000 people come through our doors each year. And more than 20,000 items are downloaded via our website. Each visit, in person or online, from people near and far represents someone who comes to the Library for a good laugh, a good cry, a good read, or a solution to a nagging problem. You stop by, and we’re glad you do. Here are some of the stories you’ve shared.
 

• A Vietnam veteran, up against hard times and without transportation, believed if he could sell his collection of valuable books he could afford a down payment on a new car. But he didn’t know how to do it. Sedona Public Library helped, and he sold the books as hoped, made a down payment on a vehicle, and he was back on his feet in no time.

 

• A Hungarian woman, an avid reader and patron, felt isolated, and she dearly needed to read a book in her native language. Sedona Public Library found books for her via interlibrary loan, and at last she felt connected to the country of her birth where she hadn’t set foot since her childhood.

 

• A little boy logged a record number of reading minutes in our summer reading program. He explained that he was reading so much because his family traveled to a Phoenix hospital four times a week to visit his sister. Reading took his mind off the sad things going on in his family’s life.

 

• An immigrant mother of three worked diligently with Sedona Public Library staff to complete her citizenship paperwork. Finally, she attended her naturalization ceremony, put her hand on her heart, and took her Oath of Allegiance.

 

• A woman came in accompanying her elderly mother. She explained that her mom, an artist, had lost her creative spirit due to traumatic illness. She believed that if her mom would only sing again, she’d regain her creativity. They were delighted when a librarian helped them find the Sweet Adeline sheet music they sought so they could practice before an audition with a local group.

 
At this time of year, when we are all bombarded with requests from nonprofits asking for toys, turkeys, coats, or cash, Sedona Public Library wants to step back and tell you that yes, we so appreciate your gifts. But more importantly, we appreciate you. We are grateful for who you are and what you bring to the Library each time you enter. Your thought-provoking questions, your careful suggestions, your spirit and curiosity make this place the lively, informative place that it is. We’re the heart of the city, and you and yours are always welcome here. Come on by, you never know what stories you’ll hear at your Library.
 
Sedona Public Library is a 501(c)(3) charitable nonprofit organization. Your tax-deductible donation may be sent to: Sedona Public Library, 3250 White Bear Road, Sedona, AZ 86336 or can be made online at www.sedonalibrary.org.

Sedona Public Library
Column for December 15, 2017
Written by Anne Marie Mackler, Development Director