2016.01.13 Parks Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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In terms of projecting use 5 years in the future, the highest increase in expected use by respondents is "Visiting the Library in person," followed by "Use of on-line resources," "To read or study," and "Take a class or learn a new skill." Virtually all other Library services also showed expected increases, but at a lower percentage or rate. Respondents think the Library is an important gathering place for their community, and the physical location matters to them. 61% of those responding to the question agree or strongly agree that they are willing to pay additional taxes for expanded Library services and hours. Qualitative Inputs: Community Voices, Municipal Administrators Meetings, Forums, Retreats Qualitative data and input into a strategic planning process is often richer and more meaningful in providing directions on community needs and desires than various "hard" data. Community voices enrich the conversation, and provide much needed balance and perspective in the process. Library Strategies and the Library conducted a wide range of offerings and venues for County residents to share qualitative input into the process (see Methodology, page 2), all of which provided rich data that will be useful to Library administration in looking at detailed provision of service. Here, however, we summarize the major themes and findings heard across these processes: Washington County residents highly value their public libraries, and would like to see enhanced services and facilities. There is not clarity among Washington County residents as to what are Washington County libraries versus associated libraries or community libraries. Most people associate with the library nearest to them rather than the system. Increasing and enhancing services to seniors is a priority, particularly in outreach, technology training and support, and programming and lifelong learning activities. Enhancing services to teens, at least in some areas of the Library system, is desired. Creating dedicated, vibrant teen spaces in some of the system libraries seems to be the major focus or need. Early literacy is a concern across the County, however, most agree that the Library has good early literacy services currently and the major area for improvement is in outreach and public awareness. Increased and enhanced programming and educational activities for all ages is desired. It was widely noted, however, that the Library should not duplicate other offerings in the community, particularly activities offered by community education programs.