Library Circulation Smashes Records All Summer

The Hamilton-Wenham Public Library has seen record-breaking circulation for the past few months. 

Both June and August broke records compared to previous years with June being the busiest month ever.

"Our highest month ever was June at 23,389 (items circulated)," said Library Director Jan Dempsey. "Probably the rainy month had something to do with it, but I'm not sure why August was so high this year, but it was great."

Dempsey said it's not clear exactly what accounts for the increase, but it could be attributed to the continuing recession or hot weather.

Circulation increased by 1,000 items or more per month this summer.

Additionally, Dempsey said adult fiction books, DVDs and children's books were all very popular in August. E-books and digital audiobooks can be borrowed online with a library card and have added to the circulation statistics. 

In addition to traditional word of mouth promotion of the library, Dempsey said word about the library is now using social media.

"We spread the word through the media, Facebook and Twitter," Dempsey said.

The library has also been reaching out to schools. Children's Librarian Lorraine Der and Kim Claire, the young adult librarian, visit the schools, read to the students and tell them about programs offered. Afterward, they find increased library activity and students visiting the library looking specifically for the titles discussed during a school visit.

In addition, the library provides as many of books listed on schools' summer reading titles as they can, and they are always available for homework help.    

"Outreach is very important and we are always open to more ways to do it," Dempsey said. "This month is library card sign-up month; we are having a cheese tasting next Wednesday to celebrate."