About HALS Houston Area Library System is dedicated to the improvement of public library services throughout the HALS region. We strive to accomplish this goal by providing support to library directors and staffs, trustees, Friends of the Library groups, and community supporters in the following ways: consulting on local library concerns and needs; mentoring library directors; providing information and recommendations on library issues and trends; advocating for positive change at the local, state, and national level; advising in the establishment of new libraries; and serving as gatekeepers who ensure the responsible expenditure of grant funds to best provide System services to libraries within the HALS region.

HALS Staff HALS Advisory Council HALS Staff Values HALS Service Area HALS is... One of ten cooperative public library systems in Texas 28 counties in southeast Texas with a land area of 24,966 square miles 67 member and 5 non-member libraries working together to serve 5,017,712 people (27% of state population) Supported by state and federal funds

Support services include:
	Educational Videocassettes: Member libraries may borrow educational videocassettes from a collection of approximately 8,500 items housed at the Houston Public Library.
	Collection Development Program: A portion of the total funds are allocated each year to individual member libraries, the amount based on the size of the library's service population. The funds are used for purchase of library materials.
	Continuing Education: Each year several workshops are conducted by HALS on topics of interest to member libraries and lay representatives.
	Consulting: Professional librarians provide consulting assistance to librarians and interested citizens on all matters related to libraries, e.g. establishment of services, improvement of services, book selection, children's services, and building design.
	Automation/Networked Resources: Computer equipment is being made available to every member library and HALS provides training. This program also provides dial-up Internet access and access to the catalog of Houston Public Library for verification of interlibrary loan requests as well as support for the Fax network.
	Spanish Language Video Packets: Participating libraries receive a package of videocassettes of educational and entertaining topics in Spanish for loan to library patrons. Packets are exchanged regularly to allow patrons a wider selection of materials.
	Disadvantaged Services: Libraries apply for mini-grants to support literacy and limited English speaking training classes held in their libraries, and to provide services to the older adults.
	Monthly News Update:   Let's Connect! is printed monthly to provide late breaking news and an updated calendar of events to HALS librarians and lay representatives. The information formerly provided in the HALS newsletter, The HALS Connection, will be included in the various sections of this Web site.
	Reference Back-Up: Member libraries' ability to provide timely, accurate responses to reference inquiries is enhanced through staff training and participation in a reference referral program.
HALS why...
	Cooperative efforts often allow the development of programs and services not feasible through individual efforts. Systems allow their members to share resources - materials, services, and the expertise of members. Working together, member libraries hope to improve library services in their communities and their regions.