Flossmoor Public Library has two initiatives this fall, both aimed at growth and moving forward in the years to come. Residents have been asked to fill out a survey that rates current services and what steps need to be taken to improve the library, especially regarding advances in technology.
Looking for community input on the future of the Flossmoor Public Library, its director, Aaron Carlin, turned to poetry.
In the fall newsletter, Carlin wrote:
Now, I want to turn a light on in your imagination,
One that sparks an action that brings your voice into the conversation.
One that sparks an action that brings your voice into the conversation.
The library has two initiatives this fall, both aimed at growth and moving forward in the years to come. Residents have been asked to fill out a survey that rates current services and what steps need to be taken to improve the library, especially regarding advances in technology.
At the same time, the library is hosting get-togethers throughout September and October for residents of specific Flossmoor neighborhoods. The six neighborhood nights are designed to boost the number of library cards issued in Flossmoor and will feature crafts, stories, pizza and a drawing for a gift card.
Both initiatives target the constant changes taking place in today’s world, Carlin said.
Because, he said in the newsletter:
An informed citizenry must continuously make decisions,
Create ways to act that bring fruition to the peoples’ vision.
The survey is available online at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/MP62JWR and paper copies are also available at the library.
Carlin said the survey will be used to develop objectives and goals for a library strategic plan.
“These will enable us to provide a stable transition towards life with upcoming technology advances that we know are in the works,” he said. These include evolutions in media, ambient communication, medicine, automation, computing and biometric data.
The survey asks patrons about prior experiences in the library, what materials should be added and to rate the current collection, programs, meeting rooms, youth and adult services, facilities, social media and internet services. Patrons are also asked about new technology that is needed and whether the library should acquire a 3D printer for its Inspiration Station, a “makerspace” that provides patrons with a place to use media and making technology.
Patrons are asked how they use the library and what they think is the best way to improve space and programs for young people. The survey asks how the library can best adapt “to the changes we know technology will bring in the future.”
Neighborhood nights are scheduled at the library, 1000 Sterling Avenue, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. on these dates: Hills, Highlands, Pinewood – Sept. 5; Old Flossmoor, Southwest Flossmoor – Sept. 11; Heather Hill, Sept. 18; Braeburn – Sept. 25; Flossmoor Park – Oct. 2; Southeast Flossmoor – Oct. 9.
Persons who cannot make it to a neighborhood night can sign up for a library card and register for the gift card drawing at patron services. More information is available by calling 708-798-3600 or emailing [email protected].