See all posts in the Libraries series

By Patrick Jones

(Note: Chanhassen and Victoria Library Branch Manager Patrick Jones shares updates about improvements and achievements at the library.)

The beginning of the year is a great time to look back at the achievements from the previous year. In 2024, there were many exciting programs and impactful projects put together by the library’s four work teams. Some highlights include:

Adult Services

• The Winter Reads program had a 32% increase in participation, with 375 readers.
• The first Craft Supplies Swap events, which provided time and space for artisans and crafters to repurpose unused materials rather than add them to landfills, were hosted in Chanhassen and Waconia.
• The 2024 adult program attendance saw a 20% increase over 2023, with more than 21,100 adults attending one or more of 295 programs.

Collection 

• The library developed a process to obtain materials outside of regular vendors. Under this new system, staff can now purchase items directly or from Amazon to obtain many diverse titles not available through standard sources (an example: local cookbooks).
• The holiday collection was revamped using a diversity, equity and inclusion lens. The new system of shelving holiday books by season allowed for a broadened scope that includes additional secular and religious holidays.
• A Libros y Más grant was implemented to improve juvenile Spanish language collection. Through this Dahlke grant, staff increased the amount of Spanish language materials for youth at all branch libraries, resulting in an average of 20% increase monthly.

Technology

• To streamline checking out and materials handling, the library migrated 13 self-check kiosks, 26 staff workstations and one security gate to Envisionware RFID (radio frequency identification).
• The Virtual Library Card program expanded to include Eastern Carver County Schools, in addition to Waconia Public Schools. Total virtual library cards issued in Chaska were 2,182 and 2,907 in Waconia. The team also developed an automated process to load student data daily, keeping student accounts up to date.
• Mobile printing migrated to Princh and was installed in all six branches. Printing is now available from anywhere using the web, phone or the Princh app. It is easy to send a print job to a Carver County library and print from any branch.

Youth Services

• The team implemented intergenerational storytimes and in-person library programs and experiences so that all branches offered intergenerational programming through storytime, classes and family activities. The team worked at a branch level to create at least one opportunity. 
• Youth Services staff were trained to evaluate and recommend resources for beginning readers. Staff are more prepared to assist fellow colleagues and patrons with book selections that build literacy skills in support of the Read Act and the science of reading. 
• The summer reading program showed a greater level of participation than the past few years. For many measures, the program series in 2024 far exceeded the previously all-time high levels of participation in pre-pandemic 2019. Libraries also hosted many great performers.