Meeting the Covid Challenge
Showcase Interviews Charissa Wagner
We recently spoke to Charissa Wagner, Branch Supervisor of Kern County’s Ridgecrest Branch Library in the East Sierra.
Showcase: Your city experienced two major back-to-back earthquakes last July and more recently, the effects of the pandemic. What impact have they had on the library and the traditional role of libraries in general?
Wagner: Our library has been impacted most significantly with unexpected and in the case of the pandemic, extended closures. Library closures across the nation have highlighted the role that libraries play in our society. While many traditionally see libraries as a building with books, they are so much more! Many libraries also offer access to wi-fi, public computers, and printers, business services (copying and faxing), places for people to gather, community information, as well as activities and programming for all ages, including makerspaces. Public libraries are one of the few places without the expectation of spending money.
Showcase: On Friends of the Library organizations?
Wagner: The earthquakes impacted the Friends of the Ridgecrest Branch Library (FRBL) because they lost access to the off-site location they had for the majority of the donation sorting and their big book sales. The pandemic closure and library not allowing volunteers greatly impacted their ability to receive donations and continue their ongoing sale inside the library. Another significant impact but NOT related to earthquakes or pandemic, was the makerspace and the resulting remodeling that greatly reduced the physical footprint of their ongoing sales.
Showcase: What have you offered to compensate for the loss, for example Indoor Express Services, carryout activity bags, and microgrants?
Wagner: After an abrupt closure lasting a few months, we started offering curbside service. For those unsure about what they want, we offer grab bags, a collection of library materials selected by staff with guidance. We turned our wi-fi on 24/7 to provide access. Eventually, we were offering express indoor appointments, allowing a limited number of people inside for 30 minutes to do specific library-related business. In June 2020, we offered carryout activity bags for children during Summer Reading Challenge and that continued and expanded to teens and adults.
Showcase: What unexpected community benefits have you introduced?
Wagner: In addition to modified services, we were finally able to introduce wireless printing. We have wanted to make it available and the pandemic gave us the push to make it happen. Response has been positive.
Showcase: How can people help to support their local libraries?
Wagner: One of the biggest and easiest ways for people to support their local libraries is to use them and recommend them to others. Libraries report many statistics to their state library (circulation of print and digital items, number of cardholders, computer use hours, and program attendance). Using the library paints a picture of the usage libraries still see. Provide feedback via comment cards, emails, letters, and/or social media to show how vital and important libraries are. Donate time, money, or items (check with your local libraries for volunteering and wish lists).
Showcase: Thanks, and what have we left out?
Wagner: Our community has been very supportive of both the library branch and FRBL. People have enjoyed having access to library materials and we have been told it has helped pass the time. People also enjoy carryout activities. We remain grateful to be able to serve our community. Bertrand Enterprises generously donated sea containers for FRBL donations to be stored in until they were able to relocate to a different location near their previous location. FRBL is excited to accept donations and allow book treasure hunting as the public can stop by during designated times once a week to donate or rummage for used books to purchase.