DES MOINES(State Library of Iowa)—The State Library of Iowa announced that the Ottumwa Public Library has met the conditions for state accreditation as outlined in “In Service to Iowa: Public Library Standards Sixth Edition.”
Achieving accreditation requires a significant, ongoing local commitment to high quality library services. The Ottumwa Public Library has been recognized for its efforts in all areas of library operations including governance and funding, staffing, library collection, services, public
relations, access, and facilities. The accreditation status begins July 1, 2024 and is valid through June 30, 2027.
“We congratulate the director and board of trustees of the Ottumwa Public Library. Your community is to be commended for this achievement and your commitment to excellence in public library services,” said State Librarian Michael Scott.
Of Iowa’s 544 public libraries, 419 – including the Ottumwa Public Library – are accredited. Iowa’s accredited public libraries are recognized for being responsive to their communities and for exhibiting excellence in their provision of library services. Almost two-thirds of all Iowans have active public library cards.
Iowa libraries play key roles in workforce and economic development, lifelong learning and e- government activities. Iowans use their libraries to find jobs, do homework, locate a good book to read, research legal information, access government information, and more.
Accredited libraries receive a higher rate of compensation through the State Library’s Enrich Iowa program. They also receive a Certificate of Accreditation signed by Governor Kim Reynolds, Lieutenant Governor Adam Gregg, State Librarian Michael Scott, and Director of the Iowa
Department of Administrative Services Adam Steen.
For more information on the State Library’s accreditation program, and to view the Public Library Standards, go to State Library of Iowa Standards & Accreditation.
