The Kuskokwim Consortium Library (KCL) is more than just a library, it’s an important resource of getting information for both the Bethel community and students at the University of Alaska Fairbanks Kuskokwim Campus. Whether you’re a local resident or visiting Bethel, Alaska, KCL has something for you. Located at 420 State Highway, KCL offers a variety of resources, programs, and services that make it an essential hub for learning, culture, and connection. If you’re in or around Bethel, this is the go-to place for everything from books and research to community events.
Contact Information:
- Phone: 907-543-4516
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: Kuskokwim Consortium Library
Mission and Role in the Community:
The Kuskokwim Consortium Library’s mission is to improve the quality of life for everyone in the community by offering resources that meet cultural, recreational, and informational needs. In 2023, KCL was honored with the National Medal for Museum and Library Service, the highest award a U.S. library can receive. This recognition showcases KCL’s commitment to serving and engaging the community with excellence.
Kuskokwim Consortium Library Hours:
| Day | Hours |
| Monday | 11 AM – 6 PM |
| Tuesday | 11 AM – 6 PM |
| Wednesday | 11 AM – 6 PM |
| Thursday | 11 AM – 6 PM |
| Friday | 11 AM – 6 PM |
| Saturday | 11 AM – 4 PM |
| Sunday | Closed |
KCL’s Diverse Collection: Resources for Every Interest
KCL boasts a diverse collection that caters to the needs and interests of the community:
- Total Volumes: Approximately 36,042
- Annual Circulation: About 12,994 items
Types of Materials Available:
The Kuskokwim Consortium Library offers a wide range of materials in different formats to meet the needs of the community:
Books
- Fiction and Non-Fiction: A broad selection of genres for all ages, including classic novels, modern stories, and educational materials.
- Yup’ik/Yugtun Books: A special collection of books in the Yup’ik/Yugtun language, supporting the local indigenous culture and heritage.
Audiovisual Materials
- DVDs: A mix of movies and documentaries for both entertainment and learning.
- Audiobooks: Popular titles available to listen to for a convenient reading experience.
Music
- Music CDs: Enjoy a wide variety of music genres, perfect for entertainment or exploring different cultures.
Periodicals
- Magazines and Newspapers: Stay updated with current and recent issues of popular magazines and local news from the community.
Alaskana Collection
- This special collection focuses on Alaska’s rich history, culture, and environment. It includes books, films, and other materials that provide valuable insight into the state’s unique heritage.
Digital Resources
- eBooks and Audiobooks: Thousands of titles are available online, allowing patrons to borrow and enjoy them on different devices for up to seven days, with renewal options available.
Kuskokwim Consortium Services and Programs:
The Kuskokwim Consortium Library offers a variety of services and programs designed to enhance access to information and resources:
- Library Services for Rural Residents: KCL extends its services beyond Bethel to include many rural communities in the Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta that do not have their own libraries. This includes mail delivery of library materials and access to online resources.
- Outreach Initiatives: Programs such as the Dolly Parton Imagination Library promote early literacy by mailing free books to children under five years old. The library also collaborates with local organizations to improve access to resources for marginalized community members.
- Research Assistance: Professional librarians are available to assist with research, cultural inquiries, and book recommendations, and can connect patrons with resources from other libraries across the state.
- Community Programs:
- Educational Workshops and Classes: Offering opportunities for learning and skill development.
- Cultural Events: Celebrating local heritage and fostering cultural understanding.
- Children’s Activities: Storytimes and engaging activities designed to promote early learning.
- Support for Community Initiatives: Involvement in local efforts such as food banks and homelessness outreach.
Kuskokwim Consortium Library Benefits to the Community:
The Kuskokwim Consortium Library provides numerous benefits to the community, including:
- Access to Information and Cultural Resources: A wide range of materials for education and entertainment.
- A Safe and Welcoming Environment: A place for community members of all ages to gather, learn, and interact.
- Support for Literacy and Lifelong Learning: Programs and resources aimed at personal and professional development.
- Resources for Job Seekers and Small Businesses: Tools and support to assist in career and business growth.
- Preservation of Local History and Culture: Dedicated efforts to maintain and promote Alaska’s rich history and traditions.
History of the Kuskokwim Consortium Library:
KCL has a rich history of serving the Bethel community and surrounding areas:
- 1972: The University of Alaska Fairbanks College of Rural and Community Development’s Kuskokwim Campus (then known as Kuskokwim Community College) was established in Bethel.
- 1975: The Bethel Consortium Library was founded, becoming a pioneer in distance learning in Alaska by offering live TV classes to villages within the KYUK TV signal area.
- 2003: The library began using the Symphony automation system, enhancing its catalog and checkout processes.
- 2022: KCL was named a finalist for the National Medal for Museum and Library Service, recognizing its outstanding contributions.
- 2023: KCL received the National Medal for Museum and Library Service, one of only eight institutions in the nation to receive this award, acknowledging its exceptional service and impact on the community.
Awards and Recognition:
The Kuskokwim Consortium Library (KCL) has earned several prestigious awards, reflecting its vital role in the community and dedication to outstanding library services. Here’s a quick look at some of its top achievements:
1. 2023 National Medal for Museum and Library Service
- Awarded By: Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS)
- Date: May 23, 2023
- Details: KCL was one of eight libraries nationwide to receive this prestigious award, which is the highest honor for U.S. museums and libraries. The library was praised for its impactful programs and community outreach, and the $10,000 cash prize will help enhance initiatives like the Dolly Parton Imagination Library.
2. Finalist for the National Medal for Museum and Library Service (2022)
- Details: KCL was a finalist for the award in 2022, recognizing its commitment to quality services and programming for the Bethel community.
3. Recognition by U.S. Senator Lisa Murkowski
- Details: Senator Lisa Murkowski nominated KCL for the 2023 National Medal, praising the library for providing critical resources such as internet access, educational support, and cultural preservation in a remote, underserved area.
Final Words
The Kuskokwim Consortium Library continues to be a vital community hub in Bethel, Alaska, offering a broad range of resources, programs, and services that cater to the diverse needs of its patrons and supporting the educational and cultural enrichment of the region.
