Library seeing record-breaking crowds

From June 2 to June 8, the library had the largest number of circulation per week on record.

Madison Public Library President Stephanie Walker said the library is experiencing a large problem.

From June 2 to June 8, the library had the largest number of circulation per week on record.  A total of 12,146 items were checked out during that time, and 22,616 people visited the library in May.

“It’s a good problem to have,” Walker said. “Summer time is always the busiest time, but this summer has even topped anything that was done.”

She said families are looking for inexpensive, quality things to do and the library has that.

“The library is doing so much free programming in the community, and we’re seeing an up-kick for that very reason,” she added.

The library holds an array of programs for both children and adults. Walker said story time has become so popular that they’re going to start managing crowds.

“This is the first summer we had the children’s garden up and running. I think that’s a big attraction for kids and for families,” she said.

Adult services include book groups, crafting and painting nights.

The library depends on the support of its volunteers and Friends of the

Library group to accommodate all the new activity.

Volunteer efforts are coordinated through email, the Friends’

Facebook page, Facebook.com/MadisonFriendsOfTheLibrary, and

monthly meetings on the second Tuesday of each month  at 6:30 p.m.