Ask Amigos: "Important Work That Really Makes a Difference in People’s Lives"

That's the name Amigos has given to the service it launched last summer as the Amigos Library Support Service. Through Ask Amigos, the knowledgeable and experienced staff at Amigos provides solutions to librarians' research and information needs covering all aspects of library operations for all types of libraries. This service, free of charge to Amigos members, includes basic research, advice, resources, and referral, delivered by phone or email.

Lynne Craddock, who serves as lead specialist for the program, noted that since it began operating, the Amigos Library Support Service, now Ask Amigos, has logged 191 requests for assistance from 98 libraries. The service has provided assistance in such diverse areas as space planning, grants, long-range planning, trends in learning commons, e-book collections and policies, ratings of top projectors and printers, the Resource Description and Access (RDA) cataloging standard, and interlibrary loan, to name a few.

Craddock noted that from comments received by those seeking assistance, the service has been well received by Amigos members. A staff member at one Amigos member library said, "This is such a valuable service for libraries. It is comforting knowing that libraries have a life line." Another commented, "I am so pleased to be working with your organization. I am spearheading an effort to build a new building. Knowing that your organization is available for advice has given me confidence. Thanks!" Craddock recalls one comment in particular that for her makes the staff’s efforts worthwhile. "You do important work that really makes a difference in people’s lives. Thank you!"

Chief Member Services Officer Laura Kimberly said Amigos had determined there was a need among member libraries for a reference desk-style support service. "Librarians are like everyone else. They have questions and need a place to find answers. We are gratified this service has been so well received by our members and is seen by them as truly beneficial," she said. "We regularly hear from member staff how helpful the information we provide them is. It tells us we are meeting a crucial need.”

Amigos President and Chief Executive Officer Bonnie Juergens added, “We are pleased to be able to provide this important service free of charge to Amigos members as another benefit of their membership. We are continually looking for ways to enhance the value of Amigos membership, and invite our members to let us know other areas we might explore."

The Ask Amigos service is available Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Central Time, at 800-969-6562, by emailing support@amigos.org, or completing the contact form on the Amigos website.