The CTLS Consulting program supports the first LSTA goal of  “expanding services for learning and access to information and educational resources in a variety of formats, in all types of libraries, for individuals of all ages” by empowering local libraries to better serve their customers. Through written, electronic and in-person contact, CTLS consultants assist members in managing their libraries and library services according to standard library management practices.

Last year, CTLS staff made a total of 110 visits to member libraries. CTLS specialists had over 3500 contacts with member libraries. With each of these averaging 30 minutes each, that totals over $175,000 worth of professional consulting services provided to Central Texas libraries—a service not available anywhere else or within the budgets of even the largest libraries in the system. The success of this program is measured contact by contact. The challenge lies in balancing future collaborations, electronic resources and an ever-diverse population with the need to provide library management training.