We are concerned that personal service and contact with our public, our users, not diminish in the future. We carefully watch the debates related to information access and consider the impact that they may have on our service to the public. We are concerned that we do not allow ourselves to become preoccupied with technology and lose sight of our concern for people, books and access. As our new library building goes up, we are mindful that we must plan for a careful co-existence of technology and people. We are not interested in dehumanizing the library, but we are interested in enhancing our response to our public service and our patrons needs.
Public service remains a top priority now and in the future.
Library staff will be skilled in the utilization of computers and other technology, but they will be equally skilled in the knowledge of authors, works of literature and the many subject areas to be found in library collections. A major focus will be on reading and literacy as essential tools for happy and successful lives. Children too, are in the category of our highest priorities, and we will create learning opportunities and enjoyment for children through programs, services and special events such as the annual Alice C. Sabatini Gallery show created exclusively for their enjoyment and participation. Our promise, now forward, is to focus on excellence in all we do for you. David Leamon is executive director of the Topeka and Shawnee County Public Library.