The Novi Public Library (NPL) celebrates its deserved achievement of an Excellent Level of Service on the Quality Services Audit Checklist (QSAC), making it only the second library in Michigan to receive this prestigious honor.
NPL Achieves Excellent Level of Service on QSAC
The Novi Public Library (NPL) is proud to announce that it has achieved an Excellent Level of Service on the Quality Services Audit Checklist (QSAC). This certification, awarded by the Library of Michigan, makes NPL one of only two public libraries in Michigan to receive this prestigious honor. The Library’s commitment to superior service and cost-effectiveness earned it the three levels of achievement offered by QSAC—Essential, Enhanced, and Excellence—and they are thrilled to have reached them all. Special thanks to Jessica Schenk, Librarian, for her hard work and dedication to the project.
Virtual Reality Weekend
In 2017, the NPL proudly hosted the first Virtual Reality weekend, which was a major success with over 150 participants and spectators. On December 14th, they also hosted the first 3D Hand Assembly Day which was also incredibly successful. In addition, patrons are now able to access Mobile Hotspots for unlimited data sharing, research, entertainment, and staying connected with family and friends. Finally, the Library unveiled 36 STEAM Kits for patrons to check out, as well as hosting a 3D Pinewood Derby program that gave patrons the chance to create and design their car and race it – all cars were created on the Library’s 3D printer.
The Novi Library Through the Years
In 2016, the Novi Library proudly introduced a 3D printer to its patrons, providing access to innovative technology and encouraging the design of creative objects. In 2014, the Novi Historical Commission commemorated the city’s historic sites with eight markers that highlighted the famous Novi Special racecar at the library. 2008 marked a momentous occasion for the community with the groundbreaking ceremony of the new library. The Charles and Myrtle Walker family were major contributors to the project, donating $1 million to start the Library Building Fund, and the library was graciously renamed in their honor.
History of the Novi Public Library
In 2003, the Novi Public Library rolled back the millage to .78 of a mill while simultaneously debuting their redesigned website and new logo. In 2002, the library joined MiLE, Michigan Library Exchange, making it Michigan’s largest virtual catalog. To better serve its patrons, two computer stations offering word processing capabilities were added in 1998, as well as six “Kids Net” (now CyberZone) stations that provided Internet access for children. 1996 saw annual circulation statistics reach 300,000 items and public access Internet stations were installed in the Library. 1995 saw the adoption of an online “shared” catalog, giving users access to holdings of 50+ libraries. A computerized card catalog was introduced for public use in 1992, and the Novi Public Library received a Number One ranking in a Novi News survey of city services.
Dorothy Flattery’s Retirement
In 1976, the Novi Public Library opened its 23,190 square-foot building and began operating with an independent one-mill. In 1978, the East side of the building was leased to the City for administrative offices for $1.00 per year. In 1985, after 22 years of service, Head Librarian Dorothy Flattery retired. The following year, the Old Novi Town Hall was relocated onto the Library property. In 1987, the new Novi Civic Center opened next to the Library, and the City offices were then moved into the new building. In 1989, the “Dorothy Flattery Wing” of the Library was dedicated. The Library hours further increased in 1990 with the addition of Sunday hours from Labor Day to Memorial Day. Finally, in 1991, Library circulation transactions went online.
A New Library Building in 1975
In 1975, a new library building was officially opened on seven acres of land near Ten Mile and Taft. Just five years prior, the Novi Public Library had become self-supporting when voters approved a one-half mill to support it, and two years earlier it had joined the Wayne County Library Federation. Before that, in 1963, an addition doubled the Library’s space, and in 1960, with about 150 donated books, Dorothy Paquette, a Novi resident, opened the Library on Novi Road near Grand River. The first year the Library was open about 7,500 items circulated. This marked a momentous milestone in Novi’s history when it became a city in 1969.
In short, the Novi Public Library has continually strived to provide first-rate service to its patrons as well as offer unique and ever-evolving experiences. From receiving certification with the Quality Services Audit Checklist (QSECRS) to introducing 3D printers and STEAM kits, mobile hotspots, and many more amazing amenities – the Novi Public Library has a proud tradition of providing innovative services that reflect creativity and excellence to its community. With such a wide variety of opportunities available, the NPL will certainly remain an important part of the Novi community for years to come.
