Texas Public Library Standards

Service Standards

Recognizing the diversity of the population in the community, public libraries shall provide all citizens access to information and materials in a timely manner and in useful and convenient formats. Each public library outlet shall apply service standards for hours open based on their individual, locally assigned service population. Through collaboration with TSLAC, TLA, ALA, and other educational and cultural entities, a public library shall strive to offer a variety of free programs that reflect the community needs and interests. Quality service in a public library shall include adequate access for the public and staff to the library catalog of holdings, the Internet, and other electronic resources.

Service standards include accessibility, information services, programming and output measures. Texas public libraries will work toward providing services that meet these standards.

The following accessibility standards apply to all public libraries in Texas:

• Core library services shall be available whenever the library is open to the public.
• Library services shall be accessible to individuals with special needs.
• Libraries will have a minimum of two Internet accessible computer terminals.
• Libraries will have Internet access for staff.
• Libraries will have an online catalog of holdings and an automated circulation system.
• Libraries will have a copy machine available for administrative and public use.
• Libraries will have a telephone and fax machine available for administrative use.
• Libraries will have a system for reserving circulating books.
• Libraries will have day time and either evening or weekend hours
• Libraries with website will keep them current and updated

Information Services

Texas public libraries provide information services for all patrons.

Basic services include:

• Reference and readers advisory assistance;
• Reference service by telephone to all callers all hours the library is open to the public; and
• Information and instruction on the use of the library and its materials and equipment.
• Enhanced services include the Basic services plus:
• Online database searching with remote access, and
• Reference service via e-mail or fax.
• Comprehensive services include Basic and Enhanced services plus:
• Virtual reference service.

Programming

• Texas public libraries should strive to meet the needs of the citizens of each community.

Basic:

• Presenting educational, cultural, recreational and reading programs that reflect diverse community needs and interests.
• Providing children’s programming to encourage reading and lifelong learning.
• Collaborating with other community organizations and educational institutions to promote library services.
• Providing library outreach services, which bring library service to the under-served and un-served.

Personnel Standards | Technology Standards

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