Brumback again named ‘Star Library’

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Not that Van Wert County residents should be surprised, but Brumback Library has again been honored for the services it provides to the community.

For the second consecutive year, the library has been recognized as one of America’s Star Libraries by Library Journal, a prestigious publication founded by Melvil Dewey, of Dewey Decimal System fame. Brumback Library was one of 262 libraries nationwide and 33 in Ohio awarded the designation, which is based on a formula that includes total library visits, circulation, program attendance and public Internet usage rates. The Star Library rankings are divided into three classifications, with the highest a five-star ranking, followed by four-star and three-star classifications.

According to the latest report released in November, Brumback Library was ranked 18th in the nation and third in Ohio, when compared to libraries with similar budgets and funding levels.

This year, the county’s historic literary home earned a four-star rating, up from a three-star designation in 2011. As a state, Ohio ranks second only to New York in the number of star libraries, both this year and as an average for each of the five years for which ratings have been published.

The Library Journal rankings are similar to Hennen’s American Public Library Ratings Index, a resources that has consistently ranked Brumback Library in the top 10 percent of public libraries nationwide.

“These ratings clearly demonstrate that the resources, services and programming efforts that the Brumback Library provides are well utilized by Van Wert County residents of all ages,” said Director John Carr, who added that the library’s projected circulation for this year is expected to pass the 700,000 mark.

With its main library in Van Wert and branch libraries in Convoy, Middle Point, Ohio City, Willshire and Wren, Brumback Library offers a collection of print and non-print resources that exceeds 220,000 items.

Marking its 111th year, the library remains a relevant resource and community treasure offering printed books, e-books, books on CD, wireless access, Internet workstations and a wide array of materials for county residents.

“Area residents are encouraged to avail themselves of the expansive resources which we offer,” Carr said.