Mission Statement
The mission of the Riverside Public Library is to be the cultural and learning center for the community, encouraging the joy and wonder of reading, the wisdom of diverse ideas, and the power of lifelong learning.
Vision Statement
To be the foremost promoter of self-directed life-long learning. We spark curiosity and provide tools for discovery.
Purpose
The Riverside Public Library supports the circulation of a collection of more than 496,694 items to over 328,416 borrowers. The Library delivers its services through the Main Library and seven neighborhood branches: Arlanza, Arlington, SSgt Salvador J. Lara Casa Blanca, SPC Jesus S. Duran Eastside, La Sierra, Marcy and Orange Terrace.
Supported with grant funds from the California State Library, the Literacy program actively recruits volunteer tutors to support adult learners and their young families. The STREAM Mobile (Science, Technology, Reading, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) brings programming opportunities, including story-times, crafts, and emerging technologies, to Riverside residents through participation at community events such as the City’s Parks and Recreation events and school events. The Library enhances local service with reciprocal borrowing agreements through the Inland Library System.
Goals
The broad goal of Library Administration is to provide policy direction, leadership, and vision; administration; and fiscal management to enable the Riverside Public Library to achieve program outcomes while complying with federal, state, local, and other requirements. The Library’s specific goals are to:
- Create safe and welcoming public spaces;
- Cultivate Library use by residents, with an emphasis on self-directed, lifelong learning to produce a highly literate and educated community;
- Support the City’s youth through programs and services with an emphasis on technology and media literacy, including summer learning, teen services, and outreach to schools;
- Serve as the Riverside information and technology center, ensuring equitable access to public technology and resources; and
- Serve as a cultural arts, literacy, and learning center, with a focus on special collections.