DRIVE IMPACT
Libraries have the most impact when they’re aligned with broader community goals. LS&S works with community leaders to plan a strong and sustainable future for the library with community vitality in mind.
“More policymakers and government officials need to recognize libraries are top contributors to community health and incorporate libraries into budgets and plans to build a culture of health and upwardly mobile communities.”
- Brookings Institution
"Libraries have always been assets but many community leaders don’t realize that they are overlooking an asset with huge potential."
- Zackery Good / Assistant City Manager of Homestead
"Libraries have a large impact on the local economy and workforce development through the provision of a variety of classes and resources."
- American Library Association
Driving Economic Development
U.S. small businesses generate 1.5 million jobs annually, accounting for 64% of new jobs. Access to information and programming about business planning, financing, market research and operations make libraries ideal for existing and aspiring entrepreneurs who are looking to research, network and conduct meetings. Today’s modern libraries are valuable resources for local business people and hubs of community growth, boosting local economies by developing small business and the workforce.
Learn More
- Russell Fischer Business Center at Camarillo Public Library (CA)
- Retail Branches at Moreno Valley City Library (CA)
Supporting the Workforce
With job skills requirements changing fast, strong libraries help community members obtain the skills they need to thrive in today’s workforce. From identifying what local employers need to tailoring programs to meet those needs, libraries are at the forefront of workforce development. By focusing on college preparation, job search skills, computer instruction, workplace literacy, technology and training, libraries offer community members continuous education, skills enhancement and orientation to evolving workforce realities.
Learn More
- CreateIt Space at Shasta Public Libraries (CA)
- TechCentral at Osceola Library System (FL)
Delivering Community Revitalization
Often comprised of municipal buildings, retail space, housing, transportation and outdoor gathering areas, revitalization projects encourage local business and tourism, increase tax revenues, boost economic position, drive financial stability and support strong real estate values and bond ratings. Modern libraries where people gather, learn, connect and collaborate are vibrant neighborhood hubs that attract residents and differentiate communities, making them excellent anchors for revitalization initiatives.
Learn More
- Manassas Park City Library at Park Central (VA)
- The Cybrarium at Homestead Station (FL)
Ensuring Strong Return on Investment
Community ROI means thinking about services and amenities holistically. Investing in assets that yield long term value for the entire community, effectively stewarding public funds and delivering measurable monetized impact should always be top of mind. Libraries contribute to community ROI when they are efficient in operation, innovative in service delivery and partnering with municipal and private organizations to support broader community goals. Library ROI can be measured through performance and impact analysis and used to identify the most effective services.
How Is Your Library Performing?
Fostering Home Schooled Students
Libraries play a vital role in supporting home-schooled children by providing access to a vast array of educational resources, creating a sense of community, and fostering a love of learning. For home-schooled students, libraries serve as a reliable and enriching environment by offering free access to educational tools, programs, peer engagement opportunities and more. Libraries host workshops, classes, and events specifically designed to support home-schooling families, exploring diverse subjects and developing a variety of academic skills.
Learn More
- Homeschool Resources at Osceola Library System
- Homeschooling Touchdown at Manassas Park City Library
- Homeschool Families Community at Sam T Wilson Library
Promoting Community Literacy
Libraries promote literacy for all age groups by providing access to a wide range of resources, technology, and services. Tailored programs like storytimes and tutoring for children, homework help and summer reading for teens and workshops, book clubs, and digital literacy classes for adults, offer educational support and foster reading habits and lifelong learning. By providing access to vital learning tools and ensuring literacy development, libraries significantly contribute to the development of more literate communities.
Learn More
- Adult and Family Literacy at Riverside County Library System
- Adult Literacy at Camarillo Public Library
- Early Literacy at Farmers Branch Manske Library
“We want to save money, but ultimately our focus is on improving services for our residents.”
- Bradley Arnold / Sumter County Administrator
"Without a doubt, I am 100% confident we are providing excellent library services to the community. I trust LS&S' expertise."
- Suzanne Holland / Riverside County Director of the Office of Economic Development
“Our partnership with LS&S is focused on ensuring that the Library offers an open, welcoming environment, with excellent services that best suit our community."
- Jeffrey Epp / Former Escondido City Manager
THE MODEL
LS&S brings all the advantages of a large consortium - expert leaders, volume discounts, proven programs, efficient collection management and innovative ideas - to communities of every size.
STORIES
Read how communities of all types partner with LS&S to maximize library impact.
FAQs
Review commonly asked questions about how LS&S partners with communities to enhance library service.
CAREERS
Explore library jobs across the US that offer excellent employee benefits and career development opportunities.
BRING REAL IMPACT TO YOUR COMMUNITY
Every community is unique. Library services should be too. We're here to answer questions and help you understand how the LS&S model can support your community.
CONNECT WITH US