Annual Report 24/25

A Shout Out from the Executive Director

"Pioneer Library System has every reason to ‘shout it out’ this year. What began as one of our greatest challenges became an opportunity for growth and innovation."

Our library system has grown through challenges across FY24/25, revealing the extraordinary resilience and inventiveness of our staff, partners, and communities.

PLS inspired innovation, engagement, and learning this year, despite the continued closure of Norman Public Library Central. All staff were retained and placed in positions that matched their unique skill sets and maximized service to the community. We expanded access by installing additional 24 Hour Libraries and Movie Boxes across our communities and increased engagement via digital platforms.

To better serve existing and reach new customers, we innovated library services, launching our very own locally-developed scheduling software and opening new Maker Labs, five in total. This expansion of access and strengthening of services resulted in an increase in our new cardholder base from the previous fiscal year. We aren’t stopping there - stay connected with us to see what’s next in our plans to enhance the customer experience.

Through this year’s challenges, we’ve proven that libraries are not simply buildings. They are the people, partnerships, and ideas that bring communities together to thrive. And that, friends, is a victory worth shouting about.

-Lisa Wells, Executive Director

Innovating Services

10 years ago, PLS & Phase2 developed the PLS Connect mobile app.

Earlier this year, PLS launched Library Connect, a custom solution designed to enhance service delivery and match modern community needs.

This collaboration with Phase 2 launched a customer-focused platform that will evolve alongside the community it serves.

• Library Connect has transformed service delivery since launching, streamlining workflows, & improving efficiency.

• Direct development enables rapid response to community needs.

• Errors are resolved faster, and five updates have improved functionality, design, and infrastructure.

• Staff report higher productivity through consolidated workflows, and customer engagement grows as the seamless, branded experience creates an intuitive path to services.