MONTGOMERY-The Alabama Public Library Service (APLS) will host an online survey through November 18 to gather information to develop APLS’ next five-year plan, which is needed in order to continue to receive federal funds. The survey may be taken online HERE or at one of the 225 public libraries around the state. It only takes a few minutes of your time!
APLS receives over $2.3 million in Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) federal funds each year from the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) the federal agency that governs these funds. Allocated by Congress, these dollars are used to supplement the APLS Regional Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped, provide grants to individual libraries, provide statewide projects and database (Learning Express, Chilton, Ancestry Library Edition) and additional resources for all Alabama citizens. By legislation and laws, the expenditure of these funds must be in accordance with the goals and objectives of the APLS five-year plan. This plan must be approved by the IMLS. The current plan expires on September 30, 2017. Information received from citizens, library administrators, local state and national leaders, will be addressed in the development of the next five-year plan covering October 1, 2017 – September 30, 2022. The Alabama Public Library Service is the state library agency. It serves all citizens of Alabama through services provided to local libraries and state employees. A seven member executive board appointed by the Governor oversees the agency. Each member represents one of Alabama’s seven Congressional Districts. The Library Development Division provides consulting service to public libraries through onsite visits, telephone, email, electronic newsletters, (The What’s Line and APLSeeds). The technology division provides public libraries with advice on making equipment purchases and onsite equipment trouble shooting. To learn more about APLS, www.statelibrary.alabama.gov.
Media Release/Alabama League of Municipalities
