We are elbow deep (or maybe chin deep!) in the final stages of our strategic plan. You helped with this plan by completing surveys or attending focus groups, and your words are guiding our decisions. This morning I was pulling quotes from our surveys to use in our final document, and I was struck by how very articulate our patrons are. In most communities, libraries struggle to convince people of their value – here in Greenwood, it is evident you not only know the value of the library, but you consider it YOUR library. So do we.
We had almost 300 responses to our survey and all were very articulate. It was clear people put some thought into their answers. I can’t wait for you to see the finished strategic plan. Here are just a few comments from our community that I enjoyed as I worked today:
Our library has something to offer for all ages. I live in downtown Greenwood and pass here frequently…..the parking lot is almost always full! Our town is very fortunate to have such a wonderful facility available to all residents. The staff is always helpful and informative. Our library adds so much value to our community! Thank you
Our library is a crucial community asset. It promotes literacy, provides programs and services that serve a diverse community’s needs, fosters interaction and social intercourse, and is the only public free access to computers, periodicals, books, and audiobooks. I come to the library at least once a week to utilize its resources. Thank you
All libraries provide a center of information and learning. GPL is the anchor of downtown Greenwood. GPL is a safe haven for school children after school, a learning center for the community and a community center.
Having a public library shows that our community cares about literacy & culture for all residents who choose to take advantage of its resources. Being personally blessed to have at-home internet, I am amazed every time I visit the library to check out books how many people rely on the library for their computer/internet needs — e-mail, job applications, etc. The stations seem to always be full.
It is the one space that draws the community together.
It is a great example of a living library.
The library is a place where the community comes together. I have met many friends at library activities. I have also become informed about local politicians and events. To me, the library is a place to learn about the community.
The library is so many things; a place for relaxing, learning, and socializing! From the youngest to the oldest, the library has something to offer. When my children were young, we never missed the learning presentations and crafts. As they grew older, we relied on the library to help them be successful at school. We spend time together watching movies we borrow, we discuss the books that we’ve read and enjoyed going to the outdoor movies and Christmas events. I witness children coming to the library for after school programs and know that while they may be a handful at times, they are in a safe environment and having the library as an after school resource is huge contribution to keeping our city and our kids safe. The impact of the library cannot be measured, it is invaluable to our community and we as members of this community should make certain that our library is recognized for its value to all.
The local library adds value by being a meeting place, a place with a plethora of resources, and as an educational facility in terms of providing opportunities for students to conduct research, participate in effective programs, and meet others in the community that they might not have a chance to meet otherwise.
I believe that a strong library is essential for a strong community. It provides a great return on value to patrons via quality programs and shared resources. One of the best things about our move to Greenwood this year was finding the Greenwood library. My children have loved the wonderful programs and play area. As a homeschooling mom, I was really thrilled to find programs for homeschoolers as well. It’s a fantastic educational and social resource.