Lodi Library’s new director making plans for the future

After settling into the new role as the Lodi Library director, Anwan Baker is looking to modernize the library and keep it relevant for the community by working to increase the connection between the library and the community.

With the recent passage of Measure L, the threat of staff layoffs and changes in the library hours of operation no longer shadow Baker’s vision as he focuses his attention to what the library requires to operate on a daily basis.

According to Lodi City Manager Steve Schwabauer, it is very rare to receive grants for operational use so the measure’s passage puts many people at ease.

“Without the passage of Measure L, it is just a relief ... no one wants to see layoffs or the library have to reduce its programs,” Schwabauer said.

After a couple of months on the job, Baker feels he has a better awareness of the library’s needs and has started getting new books ordered and new programs incorporated into the adult and teen programs that the library offers.

“I have been going through the collections and making sure that they are relevant to the community,” Baker said.

“Looking over some of the checkout dates on certain collections has allowed me to know what members of the community are interested in reading.”

The library recently received two state grants, both for $8,000, and Baker said he has already began ordering books and stocking the library.

Baker is also making efforts to get more advanced teen programs such as coding and computer programming courses that engage both teen interest and social relevancy. And due to the elevated technical shift the library will take, Baker has been working with the city council to upgrade the entire library’s Wi-Fi system.

“We currently operate on a 10 megabyte fiber optic speed and by updating our Wi-Fi we will be operating on at a thousand megabytes, which is great because no mater where you go in the library you will have a strong connection which is what people need,” Baker said.

As Baker tackles issues facing the library he also offers a compassionate association with the homelessness community that seeks refuge from the elements during the winter and summer months.

“Regardless of socio-economic status the library is open for all to enjoy. As long as the rules are being respected and observed, and the item limit is maintained there really isn’t an issue,” Baker said.