Library Online Public Information Guides

About the Program

Category: Libraries (Best in Category)

Year: 2014

The Gloucester County Library System (GCLS) creates online information guides to provide timely, accurate information regarding local emergencies, crisis situations, or in response to pressing issues for county residents. This kind of resource, referred to by library professionals as a “libguide”, provides Gloucester County residents with a centralized source of reliable information. The first GCLS libguide was published on December 12, 2012. Examples include local emergencies such as a train derailment resulting in exposure to hazardous chemicals and an industrial leak affecting the community water supply. These guides have been accessed more than 4,000 times so far. The libguides include links to news reports, government agencies,updates on emergency response efforts, and quality resources that offer information on associated issues like health or environmental risks. Other libguides include one on the Affordable Care Act, “Helping Children Cope with Crisis” (created in response to the shootings in Newtown, CT) and topics commonly researched by middle and high school students. GCLS has received positive feedback from library customers, community leaders, and government officials. GCLS libguides have been viewed more than 4,000 times.