The Northeast Ohio Regional Library System (NEO-RLS) is a cornerstone of the community, dedicated to promoting literacy, education, and cultural enrichment in the region. Serving multiple counties, the NEO-RLS supports a network of public, school, academic, and special libraries, enhancing their capabilities to serve their respective communities effectively.
Mission and Vision
NEO-RLS’s mission is to empower libraries by providing essential resources, innovative training, and collaborative opportunities. Their vision is to create a dynamic library environment where resources and knowledge are readily accessible to all, fostering a community of lifelong learners.
Services Offered
- Resource Sharing
- NEO-RLS facilitates the sharing of resources among libraries, ensuring that patrons have access to a broader range of materials, including books, periodicals, digital media, and more. This cooperative approach maximizes the utility of each library’s collection, benefiting the entire region.
- Professional Development
- Continuous learning is crucial in the rapidly evolving library landscape. NEO-RLS offers a plethora of training programs, workshops, and webinars for library staff. These professional development opportunities cover a wide range of topics, from the latest in library technology to effective community engagement strategies.
- Consultation Services
- NEO-RLS provides expert consultation services in areas such as strategic planning, technology implementation, and grant writing. This support helps libraries to innovate and adapt, ensuring they meet the changing needs of their communities.
- Technology and Innovation
- In an era where technology is integral to information access, NEO-RLS is at the forefront of helping libraries integrate new technologies. This includes assistance with digital collections, website development, and the use of social media to reach wider audiences.
- Advocacy
- NEO-RLS plays a critical role in advocating for libraries at the local, state, and national levels. They work tirelessly to ensure that libraries receive the funding and legislative support necessary to continue their vital work.
Community Impact
The impact of NEO-RLS extends far beyond the walls of individual libraries. By supporting library staff with resources and training, they indirectly benefit all patrons who walk through the doors. Libraries under the NEO-RLS umbrella are better equipped to provide educational programs for children, career resources for job seekers, and diverse programming for all ages.
Conclusion
The Northeast Ohio Regional Library System is more than just a support network; it is a catalyst for growth and innovation in the library community. By fostering collaboration, providing essential resources, and advocating for libraries, NEO-RLS ensures that the libraries in Northeast Ohio continue to be vibrant centers of knowledge and community engagement.
For more information or to get in touch with the Northeast Ohio Regional Library System, please contact them at:
- Phone: (440) 384-0522
- Fax: (800) 373-9594
- Address: PO Box 837, Youngstown, Ohio 44501
- Web: www.neo-rls.org