2016.01.13 Parks Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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COORDINATION AND COOPERATION WITH SURROUNDING LIBRARY SYSTEMS — Currently for Washington County, there appears to be significant use of Ramsey County libraries (White Bear Lake, Maplewood, Roseville, etc.) in the northwestern section of the County. Similarly, there may be significant overlap with Dakota County libraries in the southern section of the County (i.e., Pleasant Hill Library in Hastings). Washington County residents may be using these libraries because they are closest to their home, are near where they work or go to school or shop, or offer more attractive services. Facilities planning should definitely incorporate these surrounding library options for residents. COOPERATION WITH ASSOCIATED AND COMMUNITY LIBRARIES — In parallel to library service in other counties used by residents, a notable percentage of Washington County residents are served by associated libraries in Stillwater and Bayport and community libraries in Marine -on - St. Croix and Newport (and a community library in Lake Elmo, which is outside the County's taxing district). For the old, historic, associated libraries in Stillwater and Bayport, which pre- date the creation of the County system, the communities provide substantial local funding and resources to operate the libraries, but they also collaborate with the County on various services. This arrangement mitigates the need for the County system to provide separate facilities in the associated and community library communities, and generally enhances service in these communities and the County as a whole. In short, it currently is a positive partnership for the associated and affiliated community libraries. That said, as the County and these communities change, the collaborative agreements between and among these independent entities will need to be periodically examined — which may affect future facilities decisions. THE CONDITION OF CURRENT FACILITIES — A driving factor can be the current state of a library facility. How old is it? Is it in good physical condition? Is it safe and accessible for patrons and employees? Can it be renovated cost-effectively? Can it be expanded for appropriate use? Is there a better location? And, there are a number of additional considerations and questions regarding a particular site. Based on input from staff and residents, and a very brief visual assessment of each library, it appears that the Oakdale, R.H. Stafford, Park Grove, Wildwood, and Lakeland libraries in particular should receive further examination regarding condition or age (although as part of a facilities plan, every library facility should be examined closely.) THE AREA TO BE SERVED — Of vital importance is to look at the primary service area for the facility and determine the community needs, demographics and wishes, both currently and in the future. For example, a community with a large senior population might focus library service on collections, quiet space, and programs/lifelong learning, whereas as community with a strong population of young families would build interactive early literacy spaces, dynamic children's and teen areas, and flexible meeting areas. Once again, the outcomes should be addressed, and the tools to achieve outcomes for the community may, or may not, involve facilities.