Idaho Commission for Libraries

Libraries Linking Idaho (LiLI) is an alliance of libraries and library consortia working together to further the common good. Specifically, LiLI refers to the projects and services that bring networked library services to the citizens of Idaho.

In 1998, the Idaho Commission for Libraries (ICFL) contracted with Himmel & Wilson Consultants to conduct a feasibility study on creating a formal network of Idaho libraries. Upon implementing some of the recommendations, LiLI was born. An advisory board consisting of Idaho school, public and academic library leaders was put into place to work with ICFL staff and guide LiLI into fulfilling its vision to:

1. Offer services to all the libraries in Idaho,
2. Extend and supplement local and regional resources and services to the citizens of Idaho,
3. Build on the strength of existing networking and resource sharing efforts in the state, and
4. Provide a framework for future cooperation that recognizes the diverse missions and strengths of its participants.

The first phase of the LiLI project was the development of the LiLI Web site to provide information about Idaho and Idaho libraries, provide links to information sources for Idaho citizens, and provide access to Idaho library home pages and online public access catalogs. The LiLI website, which was unveiled in October 1997, continues to be a central point of communication about LiLI programs and services.

In 1998 the Idaho State Legislature passed funding for statewide access to online databases. The LiLI Databases (LiLI-D) are available to all Idaho citizens. The service is critical to school, public, and academic libraries as resources erode.

The root of LiLI is cooperation. This is evident in the strength and growth of Idaho regional library networks and shared library automation systems. These networks provide the backbone upon which statewide services are based. Their continued development and sustainability are essential to LiLI’s future and the future development of Idaho libraries.

From the early stages of developing a website, to the implementation of LiLI-D and the development of regional library networks, today LiLI remains a cooperative effort. Together, the Idaho Commission for Libraries and the Idaho library community continue to improve library services for the citizens of Idaho.