March 24, 2008 - 10:19 p.m. EST

This is the latest in a series of Oconee County government profiles, completed by department heads and presented as part of the Daily Journal/Daily Messenger “My County Agenda” initiative. Readers are encouraged to ask any questions they may have after reading this story by logging on to www.upstatetoday.com, clicking on this story and then following the directions that accompany the story.

Questions may also be mailed to Daily Journal/Messenger, 210 W. N. First St., Seneca, 29678; by FAX to 864-882-2381; or by calling the “tip line” at 864-973-6702. Questions will be accepted for five days after publication.

Name: Martha Baily

Education: Master of Library Science

Work history: I have worked in all types of libraries: school, academic and public. My job prior to this one was at the Jackson-Hinds Library System in Jackson, Mississippi.

Tenure in your current position: Since 1993.

Contact information: ocpldirector@InfoAve.Net; 864-638-4133

Department Information

Staffing:18 full-time positions and 13 part-time positions.

Budget outlook: Fair, I suppose. We keep asking for an urgently needed new library in Seneca, but with no success to date.

Brief history of department: On October 18, 1948, the Oconee County Public Library began operations, serving the public from one room. Opening day book stock consisted of 2,842 volumes owned by the library, plus an added 1,196 volumes on long-term loan from the state. Today we have three branches in addition to the main library. These are in Salem, Seneca, Walhalla and Westminster. We also have a bookmobile. Our collection, as of July 1, 2007, was 198,551 volumes with more being added and weeded out continually throughout the year.

Statutory Responsibilities: SC Code of Laws, Section 4-9-35. “(A) Each county council shall, prior to July 1, 1979, by ordinance establish within the county a county public library system.” The Library Board consisting of nine members was established and was empowered to employ a chief librarian; purchase, lease, hold and dispose of real and personal property; acquire books and other materials; accept donations; and other responsibilities related to the ongoing of the library. Oconee County Ordinance 79-8, an Ordinance establishing a County Library System for Oconee County was approved by County Council on June 19,1979.

Assumed duties/responsibilities: The mission of OCPL is to connect our diverse communities with information resources that enrich, enlighten and entertain.

Recent accomplishments (including any measures implemented to better serve the public or to save tax dollars): OCPL consistently and continually attempts to serve our patrons as efficiently as possible, and to provide them with the materials they need in various formats. We strive to provide the best technology we are able, and are planning to have WiFi at all our branches this spring. Our staff is regularly undergoing training, both in person and online, to enable us to better help our patrons. Our motto is service, and we attempt to provide this with every transaction.

Current goals and objectives: We are currently working with architects in planning for a new library for Seneca. Complete interior renovation of the Oconee County Public Library in Walhalla; Pro-active relations with council members; replace retiring director.