Cooperative Allegheny Libraries Support (CALS)
Cooperative Allegheny Libraries Support (CALS) is a department within Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh dedicated to strengthening and supporting libraries across Allegheny County.
Through shared services and coordinated initiatives, CALS helps libraries work more efficiently and deliver consistent, high‑quality service to their communities.
Much of this work is based out of the Library Support Center, home to essential services that include sorting and transporting books and other library items throughout the county, providing eResources, managing Interlibrary Loan fulfillment, and offering Collection Support services.
A core part of CALS’ mission is collaboration. By working directly with the diverse network of libraries across Allegheny County, CALS helps identify new opportunities, develop shared programs, and create services that respond to the evolving needs of library staff and patrons.
As our name suggests, CALS is a collective effort designed to provide comprehensive infrastructure, innovative solutions, and expanded support for all Allegheny County libraries.
CALS Services
Collection Support
Collection Support is an initiative led by the Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh collections team and developed in collaboration with county libraries. Its purpose is to maintain the countywide eResources collection, strengthen the collections of libraries with limited budgets or those serving distressed communities, and foster a network where librarians across the county can connect and share resources.
Materials Movement
District Library Centers receive state funding to support the public libraries within their geographic areas. As the Pittsburgh District Library Center, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh provides services that include Interlibrary Loan (ILL), sorting, and shipping of library materials.
Technical Services
Technical Services staff provide countywide support for cataloging, acquisitions, and processing. Some of this work is delivered through specialized initiatives such as Collection Boost and Collection Boost Plus. Staff at the Library Support Center work directly with libraries that lack the staffing capacity or training to perform these essential technical services tasks.
Facilities
To support the upkeep and maintenance of local library buildings, all libraries in Allegheny County have access to Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh’s rate‑sharing program and preferred vendor lists. In addition, the Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh Facilities Department partners with a group of libraries to provide more extensive services, including access to an on‑site Maintenance Technician and a shared ticketing system for maintenance requests.
Fund Development
County libraries have identified fund development as an area where additional support is needed. CALS Fund Development as a Shared Service provides education, expertise, and hands‑on assistance with fundraising activities. This work helps increase public awareness of the value of libraries and supports efforts to grow donor bases and charitable giving across the county.
Human Resources
Through a contract with an HR professional, CALS has supported more than 30 county libraries with a variety of human resources needs. This includes on‑demand consulting, policy review, guidance on staff‑related matters, and assistance with reviewing employee handbooks.
Shared Digital Platforms
CALS supports all libraries in Allegheny County through a wide range of digital projects. The goal is to enhance the digital experience for patrons while streamlining workflows and operations for library staff.
Support for Under‑Resourced Libraries
Libraries identified as under‑resourced or serving distressed communities are eligible for specialized services designed to strengthen their operations and better meet community needs.
