Preface

The year 2022 was all about recovery, growth, and flexibility. The coronavirus period had a strong impact on our organization. We were pleased the government acknowledged that the library was an essential service. At the same time, we were faced with compulsory limitations that made organizing activities difficult. Some people were also reluctant to visit the library. Fortunately, as limitations were lifted during 2022, patrons began to return, although we still have not yet completely recovered.

Certification

The certification team for libraries and art centers came to visit the ABC Huis in March last year. After a comprehensive audit, we received confirmation in April that certification had been approved for four years. That was a great compliment to all our staff. The merger had only just taken effect in 2021.

The Taalhuis was another area for certification and the process was completed in late 2022. The result came in early 2023 and as hoped, also approved!

War refugees

The war in the Ukraine had not only consequences for the economy and purchasing power but also generated a wave of refugees. We responded quickly as an organization by providing help which included personalized (digital) linguistic assistance, and special recreational activities in partnership with our Artiance colleagues.

Programs back on track

The services for the schools were recommenced during the year and grew due to NPO (Nationaal Programma Onderwijs) funding. The scope of the Participation & Self-Dependence Program also returned to its previous level as more face-to-face meetings and courses were made available.

Long-term policy plan

The year 2022 was also the year that a core team in the ABC Huis worked together preparing the long-term policy plan as of 2023. Exchanging ideas on our goals for the residents in our work district proved very beneficial. It narrowed the gap between the managers and the advisors concerned. We will continue to build our partnership further based on the long-term policy plan that has now been completed. This plan will help us to move forward to impact the work we want to achieve in society in the areas of art, culture, language, reading and information. I look back on that process with pleasure. It gives me confidence in the future of the ABC Huis, the further partnership between Artiance and the Kennemerwaard Public Library.

Erna Winters, Director ABC Huis