The San Bernardino County Library is proud to uphold a standard of excellence, as recognized by the NACo Awards, which highlight innovative programs and services that positively impact our community.

  • Library Winter Storm Response: In March 2023, the San Bernardino County Library partnered with the Department of Public Works and the County Office of Emergency Services to provide vital support during a historic winter storm that brought record snowfall. Library staff worked tirelessly to ensure residents in mountain communities had access to essential resources, including food, water, technology, and road access.
    This effort highlights the library’s role as more than a place for books—it serves as a lifeline during emergencies. The San Bernardino County Library’s proactive approach demonstrates the critical role libraries can play in supporting their communities during natural disasters.
  • Library Career Guide: The Library Career Guide was created to help staff understand the qualifications and steps needed for promotion within the department. This comprehensive, multi-page guide outlines the minimum requirements for various library positions and provides insight into educational and experiential pathways for advancement.
    By fostering transparency and clarity, the guide has created an environment where staff are better informed about their opportunities for growth. It has also inspired many to pursue further education and training, leading to increased internal promotions.
  • Tails & Stories: he San Bernardino County Library’s “Tails and Stories” program is designed to support young readers, up to age 17, who are working to improve their reading skills. This unique program pairs readers with service animals in a safe, nonjudgmental environment, encouraging them to practice reading aloud.
    During each session, participants can read to a service animal, interact with them, and receive guidance from the animal’s handler. Readers build confidence, comprehension, and a love for storytelling, leaving with a sense of accomplishment and encouragement.
  • Revamping Branch Manager Meetings: In response to the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, the San Bernardino County Library transitioned monthly Branch Manager meetings to a virtual format to provide system updates and support for its 32-branch system. By March 2022, with the return of in-person services, these meetings were restructured to focus on leadership development and comprehensive training.
    The full-day sessions now include County policy updates, youth program training, leadership skills, team-building exercises, and more. This initiative equips managers with the tools and confidence needed to lead effectively during challenging times. The program has resulted in improved staff morale, retention, and program success, fostering growth across the library system.
  • Library Leadership Training: The San Bernardino County Library system is dedicated to fostering growth and development among its staff. To enhance leadership potential and provide a deeper understanding of the skills required for promotion within the organization, the Library Management Team developed the Leadership Training Program.
    This innovative program aims to strengthen the knowledge, skills, and abilities of all library staff, both part-time and full-time, who are eager to learn more about the County Library system from a leadership perspective. Offered once a year, the program consists of a six-week session, with classes held on a day when most library branches are closed to the public, ensuring accessibility for all participants.
  • Introduction to Library Basics: Staff Development: To provide exceptional customer service to the communities we serve, the Library recognizes the importance of equipping staff with high-level training directly related to their roles.
    In 2019, the Library reimagined its new employee orientation program to offer a more comprehensive and engaging training experience. This revamped program, now titled Introduction to Library Basics, provides in-depth knowledge of library expectations, operations, and, most importantly, customer service.
    The Introduction to Library Basics program ensures new hires receive additional layers of training that build upon what they learn at their designated “training branches.” This innovative approach not only supports new team members but also reinforces the Library’s commitment to excellence and professional development, enabling staff to provide the best possible service to our patrons.
  • Interview Schedules: To address post-pandemic staffing challenges, the San Bernardino County Library revamped its hiring process to reduce delays and remain competitive. Previously, second interviews were scheduled weeks after the first, extending the hiring timeline to 4–6 months. The new process combines first and second interviews on the same day, cutting the timeline to 2–3 months. This streamlined approach has improved efficiency and enabled the Library to attract and secure top talent, ensuring continued excellence in service delivery.
  • Mobile Application for Tracking Library Reading Programs: In 2019, the San Bernardino County Library System implemented Beanstack, a mobile and web-based application designed to track reading programs for all ages. With the library offering multiple “Read for Rewards” programs, including the Summer Reading Program and the “In-N-Out Cover-to-Cover” initiative, Beanstack became a convenient and user-friendly tool for families to participate and engage in literacy activities.
    Through the Beanstack mobile app and desktop site, patrons can create free accounts, track reading milestones for multiple family members, write book reviews, and redeem physical rewards at any of the 32 library branches across the County. This platform has significantly increased accessibility and participation, promoting literacy throughout the community.
  • Library Mobile Application: At the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, library buildings were closed to ensure public safety, limiting access to materials and services. Recognizing the need for a safe and convenient solution, the San Bernardino County Library System launched a mobile app designed to offer contactless and easy access to library resources.
    The app allows customers to check out books and materials in-person in a contactless manner, search the catalog, locate library branches, pay fines and fees, and access online resources such as e-books, streaming services, and databases. Available for all mobile devices, the app prioritizes health, safety, and convenience—providing library services at your fingertips. Download it today to experience your library in a whole new way!
  • X-11 and Self-Service Enhancements: The San Bernardino County Library is committed to providing exceptional services that meet the literary, educational, and recreational needs of our community. During the challenges of COVID-19, we reimagined how we served our customers while prioritizing health and safety.
    In 2020, with support from CARES ACT funding, the Library implemented contactless service solutions by introducing 36 self-service kiosks, 35 document stations, and 10 tablet stations. These technologies allowed us to enhance the customer experience and maintain excellent service during uncertain times.
    Our dedication to innovation and adaptability ensures we continue to serve the community with excellence.
  • Outstanding Service Award: The San Bernardino County Library recognizes and values the dedication of its employees. Each year, a full-time employee from each County department is honored with the Award for Excellence. In 2021, the Library expanded this recognition by introducing a part-time Outstanding Service Award to acknowledge the contributions of its part-time staff.
    For the first time in library history, both full-time and part-time employees were honored for their excellence, reflecting the Library’s commitment to equity and appreciation for all staff. This recognition highlights the vital role every team member plays in the Library’s continued success and service to the community.
  • Instant Digital Library Card: The San Bernardino County Library enhanced its Digital Library Card application process to better serve the community. Previously, customers faced delays of 3-5 days to receive their card information, which discouraged usage. To streamline the experience, the Library introduced an improved online application that provides instant access to Digital Library Cards.
    This update has significantly increased card signups and usage at no additional cost to the County Library, thanks to strategic coordination with digital content vendors. The new process ensures faster, more convenient access to library resources for all residents.
  • Converting Programs to Meet the Need: The San Bernardino County Library has always taken pride in delivering high-quality programs and events. With growing attendance year after year, many of our large events attracted thousands of participants. During the COVID-19 pandemic, we faced the challenge of continuing to serve our community despite closures and restrictions.
    In response, we reimagined our programs by shifting to virtual formats and creating grab-and-go activity kits. This approach allowed us to continue engaging our customers while ensuring safety. Through staff training, new equipment, and innovative strategies, we successfully introduced a new era of programming to better serve our community.
  • New Book Festival Redistribution: The San Bernardino County Library proudly celebrates the New Book Festival at its largest branches: Chino Hills, Hesperia, and Fontana. Since its launch in 2015 at the Chino Hills branch, the festival has highlighted the Library’s commitment to providing new materials, with an annual investment of $100,000 in new books.
    Initially, books ordered for the festival stayed at the hosting branch, but to ensure equitable distribution, a countywide redistribution system was introduced. This allows all branches to benefit from the addition of new materials, ensuring the entire community enjoys the excitement and resources of the New Book Festival.
  • Library Training Module: The San Bernardino County Library created a Customer Service Training Module to ensure consistent and excellent service across all staff, including temporary workers, interns, and regular employees. This interactive training highlights the importance of customer service, outlines expectations, and fosters teamwork by holding all employees to the same high standards.
    Upon completing the training, staff are equipped to deliver exceptional service, reinforcing the Library’s commitment to a positive customer experience. This program underscores the Library’s dedication to quality service and a collaborative work environment.
  • STEM in the Library: The San Bernardino County Library is dedicated to inspiring a love for learning and literacy through innovative STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) programs. These free programs offer hands-on activities like coding and robotics, making high-quality STEM education accessible to all families. Our mission is to provide opportunities for growth, creativity, and exploration, helping to eliminate financial barriers to STEM learning.
  • Student Digital Library Cards: The San Bernardino County Library’s Digital Library Card makes it easy for all county residents to access library resources online without visiting a physical branch. Recognizing the growing need among students and educators, the Library introduced the eStudent Digital Library Card, enabling entire classrooms, schools, and districts to register quickly and efficiently. To date, over 5,000 students have received digital library cards, reducing barriers to learning and fostering greater access to educational resources.
  • Library Collection Development Evolution Strategy: The San Bernardino County Library is dedicated to providing resources that meet the needs of our communities. By restructuring our Collection Development strategy, we implemented a more demand-driven approach to purchasing materials. This included campaigns allowing customers to recommend new items, enabling us to make more informed purchasing decisions.
    Our new process prioritizes high-demand materials, resulting in nearly doubling the Library’s circulation in just four years. These changes ensure our collection remains relevant, accessible, and customer-focused.
  • Baker’s Drive Thru Fall Read for Regards Reading Initiative: The San Bernardino County Library is committed to promoting youth literacy year-round through engaging and impactful programs. Recognizing a need for targeted fall programming, the Library partnered with Baker’s Drive-Thru to create a reading rewards program. This initiative encourages children and teens to read during the traditionally slower fall months.
    The program has led to increased participation, stronger community partnerships, and heightened employee engagement through additional training and resources. Together, we continue to inspire a love for reading while fostering connections with local businesses and families.
  • New Book Festival: The San Bernardino County Library’s New Book Festival brings popular book characters to life and offers family-friendly events that promote youth literacy. This annual festival provides free access to large collections of new children’s books, fosters excitement about reading, and supports community engagement. Families can enjoy a bookstore-like atmosphere, take home new materials at no cost, and participate in fun, interactive activities for all ages.
  • Staff Development Day: The San Bernardino County Library’s annual Staff Development Day is a valuable opportunity for staff across all branches to come together for team-building, training, and professional development. This event fosters collaboration, celebrates accomplishments, and strengthens our commitment to providing consistent, high-quality library services. Through interactive activities and system-wide training, we empower our employees to grow both individually and as a team.
  • Summer Reading Program: Revamp and Restructure: Encouraging children to read during the summer months, this revamped Summer Reading Program aligns with core values to support the success of every child from cradle to career. Studies show that reading at least five books over the summer helps maintain reading levels for the next school year. By restructuring the program, participation has grown significantly, with more children, teens, and adults engaging in summer reading. Strengthened partnerships with local schools and enhanced staff training have made the program more impactful and enjoyable for families, offering rewards and activities that inspire a lifelong love of reading.
  • Leadership Training: Fostering employee engagement through training and development is key to ensuring consistent leadership across the library system. Covering a wide geographic area, this program addresses the need for cohesive leadership and offers staff opportunities to grow as managers. Leadership Training is a six-month course that explores essential leadership responsibilities through a mix of lectures, role-playing scenarios, small group activities, and open forums. Each session provides practical exercises and a space for participants to share experiences and ask questions, building a stronger, more unified team.
  • Heritage Month Celebrations: Celebrating the rich histories, cultures, and contributions of diverse communities, Heritage Month events embrace and highlight the diversity within our region. These celebrations feature curated book displays across all library branches, programs honoring historical figures, and events that promote cultural awareness and education. Key observances include Black History Month (February), Asian Pacific American Heritage Month (May), Women’s History Month (March), Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15–October 15), and American Indian Heritage Month (November). Partnerships with local organizations, businesses, and community groups help expand participation and create impactful events that bring communities together.
  • Summer Reading Program: Revamp and Restructure: Designed to encourage kids to read during the summer, the Summer Reading Program is a rewards-based initiative proven to help children maintain their reading levels for the next school year. The program was restructured to align with core values, foster community connections, and support the educational success of every child from cradle to career. These improvements have significantly increased participation, circulation, and partnerships with local schools. Families now enjoy an exciting program that offers fun incentives, promotes literacy, and provides meaningful engagement for children, teens, and adults alike.

Library Set Programs: Organization and Streamlining: Enhancing learning and development at every age, the Set Programs are designed to target specific age groups, including Library Beginners (0–5 years old), Kids Zone (6–11 years old), Teens (12–18 years old), and Adults (18+ years old). These programs provide a diverse range of engaging and educational opportunities for the community.
Streamlining and organizing Set Programs across all 32 branches has led to increased attendance, better variety, and improved marketing efforts. Regular staff training, efficient budget management, and updated guidelines have enhanced the quality and consistency of these offerings. The success of this initiative ensures access to larger events and resources tailored to meet the needs of every age group within the community.