Outreach
Outreach Services Mission Statement
The Suffolk Public Library is committed to providing library services throughout the city, not just in our buildings. Outreach Services are brought directly to customers in order to reduce gaps in access and increase community connections. Request an outreach visit here.
When selecting locations for outreach, we prioritize communities with:
- Physical barriers to library locations including distance
- Low-income level and high risk factors
- Traditionally underserved populations
Outreach Services take a variety of forms and SPL works closely with partners to find the right fit for the community. Current Outreach Services at SPL consist of the following:
Library2Go
Library2Go is a library on wheels with high interest materials for all ages and reading levels. In addition to books, Library2Go provides access to technology with iPads, gaming equipment, and cutting edge demonstrations. Bring your own devices to Library2Go stops and connect to free Wi-Fi. Visit Library2Go stops around the community to check out books, learn something new, and meet your neighbors.
Pop-Up Library
Pop-Up Libraries are library experiences outside of library locations tailored to match the needs and interests of intended customers. Check out the three types of Pop-Up experiences.
- Library Card Sign Up: Receive a library card on the spot and learn about how to use it to check-out books, e-books, e-audiobooks.
- Books & More Check-out: Choose from an assortment of books and other library materials selected based on input from customers. Check out materials with your library card or take a free book home and add it to your own library.
- Programming & Demonstrations: Discover something new through interactive programming and hands-on demonstrations for all ages, in addition to library card sign up and material check-out.
Offsite Programming
Library programs can be taken directly to customers in retirement communities, schools, businesses, and community gathering places.
- Suffolk Speaks: Suffolk Speaks is Suffolk Public Library's oral history project. We record and collect true stories from community members to make available to the public on our website.
- Youth Programming On The Go: We can build a program to meet the individual needs and goals of your organization from literacy to STEM and everything in between. Please fill out the outreach request form so we know how to better serve you.
- Socialization & Gaming: We will bring the fun and encourage social interaction with engaging group games like Bingo, Pub Trivia, and Friendly Feud.
- Tech Instruction: Learn how to code, scan old photos and documents for safe-keeping, create a model on a 3D printer, and more.
Deposit Collection Delivery
Deposit collections offer library materials at an off-site location. Library staff will work with sites to choose titles that fit their needs. These materials may be free donations or items available for checkout.
Holds Pick-up/Drop-off
This service gives library users the option to place holds on materials and receive them at an off-site location. On a specified date, library staff will return to the location to pick-up the items.
Request Outreach Services
SPL will review and evaluate outreach partnerships on a routine basis to ensure that resources are being used effectively. To request Outreach Services, complete this form. Please submit form at least 30 days prior to requested date.