As community needs expanded and evolved post-pandemic, PLS adopted a “smarter, not harder” approach to programming. Through assessing community needs at a county and system level, PLS identified five areas where they could maximize impact by looking at library expertise and resources in comparison to existing community services and resources: early literacy and school readiness, STEAM, upward mobility, health and community conversations.

Each community was represented through the cross-functional team of staff, bringing unique needs forward to be rolled out on a system level. Rolled out in 2022, PLS is able to track and present measurables in moving the need to build student success, career exploration, workforce development, healthier lives and a more empathetic community. Signature services guide decision-making, align resources with community and measure outcome-based evaluations in a way that emphasizes community-driven programming.

Customers can experience consistent signature services no matter which PLS branch they visit. Program attendance is on the rise with events like Kick-Start Kindergarten filling up instantly, with additional sessions offered repeatedly due to popularity. Signature programs have increased visibility of the library’s impact with stakeholders and legislators. This model of programming was shared among the library profession at a regional conference.