Oct. 11, 2005

Acting State Librarian Nancy Robertson today announced the launch of the Library of Michigan's second quality measures project, the Quality Service Audit Checklist (QSAC) for library cooperatives.  Developed over the last two years by a group of library professionals representing library cooperatives and various types and sizes of public libraries, this series of benchmarks provides a framework by which cooperatives can evaluate their current levels of service and strive for improved service.

"Following the success of the first QSAC project for public libraries – with more than 15 percent of Michigan libraries already achieving the first level of QSAC certification and more being certified every week – it made sense to give library cooperatives the same kind of assessment tool," said Robertson.  "As one of the first states to extend quality measures to cooperatives, we're excited to introduce this new set of standards that will help Michigan lead the pack in providing excellent, equitable library service."

The quality measures for library cooperatives are divided into five areas: administration, governance, services, technology, and advocacy.  There are three tiers of standards, the same three levels established under QSAC for public libraries:

• Essential Services:  The basics of all library cooperative service, these are relatively low-cost standards that every cooperative can and should achieve.
   
• Enhanced Services:  These standards, more difficult to achieve, may require more funding.
   
• Excellent Services:  Calling for the highest level of service attainable, these standards are a stretch for any cooperative and require funding for and commitment to superb service.

The Quality Service Audit Checklist for cooperatives is available online at http://www.michigan.gov/qsac.  

Michigan's library cooperatives coordinate resources and services for libraries within a geographical area, maximizing the delivery of quality library service in the most cost-effective manner. Cooperatives foster overall library development by facilitating such key services as resource sharing and interlibrary lending, continuing education, professional consultation, and consolidated purchasing and discount programs.  A cooperative works with its member libraries, other cooperatives, library associations, the Library of Michigan, and other organizations to achieve the goal of developing and coordinating high-quality library services for the benefit of Michigan’s residents.

Michigan's library cooperatives include:

• Capital Library Cooperative (headquartered in Jackson)
• Detroit Library Cooperative (headquartered in Detroit)
• Hiawathaland Library Cooperative (headquartered in Sault Ste. Marie)
• Lakeland Library Cooperative (headquartered in Grand Rapids)
• Mid-Michigan Library League (headquartered in Cadillac)
• Mideastern Michigan Library Cooperative (headquartered in Flint)
• Northland Library Cooperative (headquartered in Alpena)
• Southwest Michigan Library Cooperative (headquartered in Paw Paw)
• Suburban Library Cooperative (headquartered in Clinton Township)
• Superiorland Library Cooperative (headquartered in Marquette)
• The Library Network (headquartered in Southgate)
• White Pine Library Cooperative (headquartered in Saginaw)
• Woodlands Library Cooperative (headquartered in Albion)

The Library of Michigan is part of the Department of History, Arts and Libraries (HAL).  Dedicated to enriching the quality of life for Michigan residents and strengthening the economy by providing access to information, preserving and promoting Michigan’s heritage and fostering cultural creativity, the department also includes the Michigan Historical Center, the Mackinac Island State Park Commission, the Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs and the Michigan Film Office.  For more information, visit www.michigan.gov/hal.

Read more press releases from the Department of History, Arts and Libraries.