Allison Grubbs, director of the Broward County Public Library System.

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The library system is committed to combining books and technology, expanding its services to diverse communities, and preparing residents for the challenges of the digital age and artificial intelligence.

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Broward County Public Libraries are striving to be much more than just a place to borrow books. Their long-term vision is to be the free go-to resource for the community: a space where residents can stay informed, learn, enjoy leisure activities, and develop new skills.

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“We want them to think of us first and to visit us frequently,” summarizes the philosophy of the library system.

 

In an era marked by the growth of digital resources, libraries have not abandoned the traditional book. On the contrary, they are committed to maintaining both options. While some users prefer to read a printed book, others opt for a phone, tablet, or e-reader. The goal, they explain, is to promote reading and access to reliable information regardless of the format.

 

One of the main challenges is precisely the enormous amount of information available online. Libraries warn that many alternative sources lack rigor and can make it difficult to distinguish between reliable information and low-quality content. Given this situation, librarians have an increasingly important role as guides for research, evaluating sources, and developing critical thinking.

 

Preparing for the age of artificial intelligence

Artificial intelligence is also changing how people search for information, write texts, and perform everyday tasks. The library system is responding with classes and educational programs designed to help the public understand and use these new tools.

 

The goal is not only to adopt technology, but to teach users how to use it responsibly and effectively.

 

Libraries for a diverse community

Broward County has very diverse communities, and libraries adapt their programs to the needs of each area. A branch near a school might focus more on teenagers, while another located near a senior living community might offer different services.

 

For residents who are not fluent in English, there are programs such as English Café, citizenship and naturalization classes, resources in Spanish, and tools for learning English as a second language. Brainfuse, a free online tutoring service for students from kindergarten through twelfth grade, is also available in both Spanish and English.

 

The system also aims to reduce the digital divide in low-income communities. Its resources include Wi-Fi hotspots, Chromebooks and tablets, as well as literacy programs, academic support, and job development.

 

With 37 active branches, the library maintains a close presence in the various communities of the county. According to its managers, the intention is to function as a "fundamental pillar" of community life.

 

Support for children, youth and families

Teenagers also play an important role. Several branches have dedicated spaces for them, where they can study, get help with homework, participate in tutoring, or engage in creative activities. Youth advisory councils also allow teenagers themselves to propose programs and represent the needs of their peers.

 

For families with young children, specialized librarians offer guidance on child development and early literacy. Available resources include reading programs, literacy stations, and the 1,000-book-before-kindergarten challenge.

 

The relationship with Broward County public schools is also part of this strategy. The libraries provide teachers and students with access to physical and digital collections, as well as tools like NoveList to help find age-, level-, and subject-appropriate reading material. They also host an annual two-day conference on children's literature, which this year celebrates its 39th edition.

 

An investment that goes beyond books

Library budgets are primarily allocated to staff salaries and benefits, followed by the acquisition of books and other materials. The remainder covers operational needs such as maintenance, cleaning, utilities, security, and supplies.

 

Private donations supplement these resources and allow for the expansion of programs, the organization of special events, and the provision of additional training opportunities. Initiatives such as “Books and Bears,” which delivers books and teddy bears to children in economically disadvantaged communities during the holidays, are made possible by donor support.

 

Resident satisfaction is assessed through annual community surveys, feedback from staff who work directly with the public, and inquiries made through social media and targeted surveys.

 

At a time when information is available virtually instantly, Broward libraries strive to uphold a simple principle: free access to reliable information remains essential. Their challenge for the coming years will be to ensure that new generations see them not just as a place to find a book, but as a space to learn, discover, connect, and participate in the community.

 

If local property taxes are reduced in Florida, what impact do you foresee this having on Broward libraries?

 

A portion of property tax revenue is used to support operations throughout Broward County, including our county public libraries.

 

I invite you to visit www.broward.org/pages/countyfunding.aspx for more information