St. Olaf Students Discuss Library's Booker Service During Hard Times

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Four students in St. Olaf College Professor of Anthropology Chris Chiappari’s class have spent this semester studying the effect of the economy on the Public Library’s Booker Bus. Interviewing library staff and patrons, as well as traveling with the bus as it made its rounds in Northfield and Lonsdale, the students prepared a report, which they presented in the library meeting room on Wednesday afternoon.

They found that Booker serves as a bridge to the community for many people. For example, the traveling library, with Diana Tallent at the wheel and as librarian, reaches a large number of day care providers who value the convenience of access to library materials and story time for the children they serve. One woman called Booker “The smart kids ice cream shop.” Her patrons describe Diana as friendly, patient and helpful.

Citizens without access to transportation can order books and other materials, which are then delivered to their homes by Booker. They appreciate Diana’s friendly, personal attention. A large segment of Booker’s users are the immigrant population for whom using a library is a new experience. Booker visits to their neighborhoods may later draw them to the library where free internet, the bulletin board and other resources provide valued assistance. Here new connections to other members of the community are made, increasing what one student called “social capital.”

During the economic downturn, the library has experienced a 7% increase in usage as people change spending habits. At the same time, because of decreased funding from the city and the difficulty of grant acquisition, the library materials fund has been decreased by 18% this year.  The city anticipates another significant reduction in state support. The library’s allocation for Booker is likely to be reduced further, in spite of providing a valued community service and increase demands. Staff is also concerned about replacement of the aging vehicle which often breaks down in all sorts of weather while in service to patrons. There is need to expand the service to 5 days a week.

An audience member asked what was the greatest surprise in the students’ findings.  The excitement Booker brings to its patrons, and especially for the kids was the response.

The students reported that while it is unusual for a community the size of Northfield to have a bookmobile, they found that the service is needed and much appreciated. They may return next fall to assess more quantitatively the effect of further budget reductions.

Class members in the photo are left to right: Carley Mondloh, Melanie Hornbeck, Alex Schmidt, and Erin Thompson, Prof. Chiappari.

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