State of Magazines at the Library
Thank you to everyone who has recently engaged in the discussion on Facebook regarding our magazine exchange! We deeply appreciate how much our community values library resources, and we want to provide clear context on recent changes, where things currently stand, and what to expect in the future.
To keep things clear, it helps to separate our magazines into two distinct categories:
Donated and Out-of-Circulation Magazines (the free magazine exchange)
Circulating Magazines (available for checkout in our fireplace reading room)
Here is a breakdown of what is happening with both.
1. Donated & Free Exchange Magazines
First, we want to reassure everyone: the free magazine exchange is still available!
We have only removed the specific furniture piece where the magazines previously resided. The exchange itself remains active, and we are currently exploring new storage options. Potential solutions include installing magazine racks or relocating the exchange into the Friends of Seward Library Book Nook on the lower level, alongside other free-will donation items like books and DVDs.
Why the Change?
Space for Expansion: The shelves previously used for the exchange were needed to support broader facility improvements. This stems from the expansion of the Book Nook (moving it into a large portion of formely only staff area) and creating two new study rooms and an additional meeting room for public use.
Staffing & Volunteer Support: While wonderful volunteers previously helped keep the exchange tidy, volunteer numbers have steadily decreased. Library staff must prioritize managing our primary circulating collection and core programming.
Quantity of Magazines: The availability and selection of donated magazines rely entirely on community contributions and items retired from our circulating collection. To protect the rest of our materials, staff inspect donations and remove items with mold, smoke odor, or severe damage.
2. Circulating Magazines & Digital Access
Over the past year, we have been closely monitoring usage data for our physical magazine subscriptions in the fireplace reading room to ensure we are using public funds as effectively as possible.
The Changing Landscape of Magazines
The magazine publishing industry has shifted dramatically in recent years. Many publishers are moving exclusively to digital formats or significantly reducing their publication frequency, all while subscription costs continue to rise.
Because of this:
Collection Reductions: Patrons will notice a reduction in the number of physical magazine titles available for checkout as we adjust our subscriptions based on circulation data.
Industry Trends: Many neighboring libraries (such as York) have already phased out physical magazine collections entirely. While we hope to continue offering physical titles where demand warrants it, complete removal remains a possibility in the future given current publishing trends and budget constraints.
How to Access Digital Magazines
We strongly encourage patrons to explore digital magazines through the Libby app, which offers instant access to thousands of current titles on smartphones, tablets, or computers:
Seward Memorial Library Cardholders: Enjoy free, full access to digital magazines through Libby using your library card.
NebrasKard Members: Access digital magazines through your home library’s digital collection services.
Moving Forward Together
We understand that changes to familiar library services can require an adjustment. Our goal is always to maximize our budget, adapt to broader publishing changes, and optimize our physical space to serve as many patrons as possible.
If you have questions, feedback, or need assistance setting up the Libby app on your device, please stop by the main desk, our team is always happy to help!
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