Among three in state to get Five-Star rating
The Flomaton Public Library has been rated one of the top libraries in the state, joining two others across the state to receive a Five-Star rating from the 2020 Library Journal Index of the Public Library Service.
Flomaton was joined by the Rogersville Public Library and the Bayou La Batre Library as the only libraries in Alabama to receive a Five-Star rating.
The Homewood Public Library received a 4-Star rating and the Majorie Younce Snook Public Library in Summerdale and the Hoover Public Library received Three-Star ratings as the only other libraries in the state of Alabama to receive honors.
According to Library Journal's 2020 index, Alabama placed more public libraries on the Library Journal's 2020 index in the southeastern United States.
To calculate the scores, Library Journal Index compares U.S. libraries based on per capita output measures. Rankings of three, four and five stars are awarded to public libraries that generate the highest output per capita among their peers.
"I'm excited," said Flomaton Librarian Kaci Boutwell, who has received two Five-Star ratings since being named librarian.
She also noted that previous Librarian Faye Knowles, who now serves as chairman of the Flomaton Library Board, received the award several times.
She said the application to apply for the award includes the programing the library offers compared to other libraries of similar size.
She said it includes everything from computers to the number of toys for children to play with. She also said budgeting plays a key role in the scores.
"We wouldn't be a Five-Star without the support of the town and the community," Boutwell said.
She said the library scored really high in the technical area, noting computer access provided to people in the community.
She said the library currently has 20 computers, but due to COVID-19 spacing guidelines about 10 are currently being used. She also said she's seeking a grant to get 'rolling' computer desks so that computers can be moved to over areas of the library for access.
"We have a high demand for computers," she said. "Not only from students, but others who don't have reliable computer access anywhere else."
Flomaton Mayor Dewey Bondurant, Jr., said he was proud of the library's rating and credited Boutwell and Knowles for making the library what it is.
"Miss Faye trained Kaci and she's done an excellent job," Bondurant said. "It's an honor to have such a great library that provides so much to the community. It's also a great honor to see it recognized on a state and national level.
Boutwell recently received a letter from Nancy C. Pack, director of the Alabama Public Library Service, congratulating her on the award.
"Flomaton Public Library is providing excellent service and programs to the community," Pack wrote. "'During these dire times, the Alabama Public Library Service has seen a decline in library service hours and libraries are struggling to keep their doors open."
"It is rewarding to see national recognition for your dedication to provide library service," Pack continued. "From the Alabama Public Library Service staff, we extend heartfelt praises and hope to see your library continue to be recognized as a leader in the nation."