FUNDING SUPPORT FOR 14 USAFE LIBRARIES

  • Published
  • By Amanda Smith-Nethercott
  • USAFE Services
SEMBACH AIR BASE, Germany (USAFENS) --  Lt. Gen. Robert Bishop, US Air Forces in Europe Vice Commander, recently approved funding of over $130,000 in support of 14 USAFE libraries. The funds will be used to enhance library programs with books, audio visual materials and staff training.

“We’re absolutely thrilled,” said USAFE Librarian Melinda Mosley. “This money will go a long way towards improving collections at our base libraries throughout the theater. The most important thing to our customers is access to current books, movies, CDs and audio books – this fact was validated in our recent 2006 survey.”

Ms. Mosley noted that timing for the funding was perfect. “This money couldn’t have come at a better time," she said. "The librarians have lists of requested items ready –execution of these funds will be a snap.”

On the lists are family and entertainment DVDs, books for young children and teens, music CDs and books on CDs. Some libraries will purchase leased book plans, ensuring current books are available all year long. As well, some of the funding will send librarians for training with information experts, giving them the opportunity to learn how to further improve their libraries and services.

USAFE librarians have a history of listening to their customers. Wireless access, comfortable chairs, graphic novel collections and popular DVDs are some of the many innovative features found at USAFE libraries -- these were all suggestions made on past customer surveys.

"Gen Bishop’s support of libraries will pay high dividends for everyone across the command," said Ms. Mosley. "The new books, audio materials and training paid for with this money will be another step towards making outstanding USAFE libraries even better."