Joint Committee on Finance Votes to Approve Study of "Public Library System"

And I'm guessing that means we don't get to choose which one.

The Joint Finance Committee voted 12-4, along party lines, to require the Department of Administration, in consultation with the Department of Public Instruction, to conduct a study of the public library systems to identify potential savings by

• Consolidating regions 
• Using technology
• Reducing duplications and inefficiencies
• Utilizing LEAN practices  (I assume)
• Increasing the sharing of services between library systems

The rationale as explained by Sen. Joe Leibham (R-Sheboygan), who introduced the motion.

"I have an individual who is new to the state of Wisconsin and is involved in our library system and they have said that when they came to Wisconsin and experienced the infrastructure we have with the 17 districts and the type of programs that they offer, they believe there's an opportunity for us with increased technology and with how services can be provided in today's world that there is a possibility that we could provide even better service with even fewer districts across the state of Wisconsin. So instead of just eliminating a district or forcing a consolidation, this motion asks DPI and DOA to look at whether some of our 17 districts could be consolidated. And specifically, I'll share in Sheboygan, they are looking at it right now with Manitowoc to consolidate some services because they've got some opportunities with employees and they just again thought this was a good thing to be looking atstatewide, and that's what it will do."

In related developments.....

2013 System Services/Configuration Discussion Process.  This year the SRLAAW is undertaking a multi-part process to examine how public library systems can remain effective in meeting member library needs into the future, including the possibility of reconfiguring systems. This process, while organized by SRLAAW, has involved, and will continue to involve, input from others in the library community. The ultimate goal is to better serve Wisconsin library patrons now and in the future. To meet this goal, a number of mechanisms have been used to gather input from the wider library community.