Eastern Shore Public Library celebrates successful inaugural year

The Eastern Shore Public Library announced significant achievements in its inaugural year at the new Eastern Shore of Virginia Regional Library and Heritage Center, showcasing its positive impact on the community.

According to recently released usage statistics for the fiscal year 2024, the library has seen remarkable growth in several areas:

• Circulation Numbers: The total number of items checked out reached 106,306, marking a 16% increase. Books remained the most popular genre, with 83,386 checked out, reflecting a 6% increase. Notably, e-book circulation surged to 11,304, a staggering 130% increase.
• Digital Resources: Computer use at the library soared to 7,479, a 65% increase, while online database accesses totaled 54,542, up by 16%.
• Program Participation: The library hosted 12 events, attracting a total of 10,668 attendees, which represents a remarkable 328% increase. The standout program was “Revolutionary Women of Accomack County,” drawing significant interest from the community.
• Technology Usage: Wi-Fi access also saw considerable growth, with 41,424 accesses recorded, a 68% increase compared to the previous year.
• Community Engagement: The library welcomed 2,104 new library card registrations, reflecting a 72% increase in community participation.

These statistics highlight the vital role the library plays in enhancing access to information, fostering learning, and strengthening community connections. The Eastern Shore Public Library expresses gratitude for the community’s continued support, which has been instrumental in these successes. As the library looks ahead, it remains committed to serving its patrons effectively and expanding its offerings to meet the needs of the community.