Congratulations to Smithfield Public Library for earning the 2024 Quality Library Award! This is a major recognition for Utah libraries that show exceptional dedication and service to their communities.
From a temporary reading room in a Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints meeting house in 1915, to now – Smithfield citizens have a rich history of prioritizing library services. Visit their website for the full story.
Smithfield Public Library is one of 16 remaining Carnegie library buildings in Utah, and one of only ten currently operating as a library. According to this blog post from the Utah Historical Society, our sister division in the Utah Department of Cultural & Community Engagement, Philanthropist Andrew Carnegie launched public library development in Utah and across the country. The Carnegie libraries, built in the early 20th century, offered improved and expanded library services and were characterized by a unique architectural style.
“We’re a Carnegie library that’s adapting to 21st-century challenges of rapid growth and new demands from our public,” says Library Director Shawn Bliss. ”We’re trying to honor our historical heritage while staying knowledgeable and enthusiastic about new technology and services we can provide to our people.”
Guided by its mission and vision, the Smithfield Public Library strives to be the “welcoming heart” of the community, diligently serving individuals of all ages and backgrounds. “We’re proud of the work we’ve done to welcome new users into the library as we’ve developed wide-ranging and relevant programs for them,” Bliss says.
Their collection and services reflect this sentiment. “Shawn Bliss and his staff work tirelessly to increase library programming and services,” says Utah State Library’s Training Coordinator Rachel Lenahan. “They are committed to ensure the library is a welcoming and open space for all individuals in their community.”
Earning the Quality Library award means a lot to Bliss. “It indicates that we’re working hard to provide for the needs of our patrons, and going above and beyond the most basic levels of library service,” he says. “It also illustrates our commitment to continuous improvement as we work to build relationships.”
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