Fort Dodge Public Library Accredited

The State Library of Iowa has announced that the Fort Dodge Public Library has met the conditions for state accreditation as outlined in "In Service to Iowa: Public Library Measures of Quality, 4th ed."

Achieving accreditation requires a significant, ongoing local commitment to high quality library services. Of Iowa's 543 public libraries, 331--including the Fort Dodge Public Library--are accredited. The Fort Dodge Public Library has been recognized for its efforts in all areas of library administration including governance and funding; staffing; library collection; services; public relations; and access and facilities. The accreditation is valid through June 30, 2011.

Iowa's accredited public libraries are recognized for being responsive to their communities and for exhibiting excellence in their provision of library services. Libraries are cornerstones of our communities. They reflect and help strengthen the economic health of communities, as well as the people who use them.

Accredited libraries receive a higher rate of compensation through the State Library of Iowa's Enrich Iowa/Direct State Aid program. They also receive an official Certificate of Accreditation signed by Governor Chet Culver, State Librarian Mary Wegner, and Iowa Commission of Libraries Chairwoman Monica Gohlinghorst.

Said Wegner, "The Director and Board of Trustees of the Fort Dodge Public Library and the city of Fort Dodge are to be commended for this achievement and their commitment to excellence in public library services for their community."