Bridgeville & South Fayette Libraries Plan to Discuss Sharing Services

Bridgeville and South Fayette’s library boards have both agreed to begin discussing whether they can work closely together and share services.

Bridgeville Public Library’s board voted earlier this year to initiate discussions and South Fayette’s library board agreed to the idea at its meeting last month.

EDITOR’S NOTE: This reporter is a member of the South Fayette Township Library Board

It’s not known what, if anything, the two libraries could do to improve cooperation and share services, but Allegheny County Library Association Executive Director Marilyn Jenkins said the they could implement pioneering ideas for the area.

“I think it’s a great opportunity for libraries to leverage the resources they have more effectively,” Jenkins said. “Obviously, no one can go it on their own anymore. They’re stronger in numbers and I think these two communities are well-positioned to have this kind of conversation.”

The two libraries are located just 2 miles from each other, making them good candidates for potential shared services.

The discussions were prompted because of Bridgeville Public Library’s financial troubles over the past year. However, the possibility for sharing some services would also benefit South Fayette after township officials put the proposed Civic Center at the former Star City Theater on hold.

Jenkins said there are numerous options the two libraries can discuss.

“I don’t think there is any limit,” Jenkins said. “I think it’s up to the imagination with the parties involved. We’re certainly excited to be involved.”

The two library boards are still working to decide how to initiate the discussions. Sharing a variety of services is a possibility, but the boards could ultimately decide to do nothing, as well.