The Seattle Public Library is taking its first few steps into its “next generation” by turning to its most important asset: you.
City librarian Susan Hildreth and members of its board of trustees are holding a “Citywide Conversation” from 6-8 p.m. Tuesday, March 2, at the Northgate Library, and are asking for your input. Is there anything you like or don’t like about the library? What would you like to see changed?
Library use is at an all-time high, as more than 14 million patrons visited the system in 2009, giving even more importance to the yearlong “My Library: The Next Generation” process to plan its growth.
“Particularly during this challenging economic time, and knowing that technology has changed the ways people access information, it’s important that we be intentional and strategic in how we move forward and determine the services that are most relevant to the community,” Hildreth said.
With more than 1,000 Internet computers and free Wi-Fi throughout the system, the library also wants your input on how the library should be using new technology, and what you think some of its goals should be five or 10 years down the road.
“The community was actively involved in helping develop the 10-year “Libraries for All” program to rebuild our facilities,” Hildreth said. “Now it’s time to make sure the services and resources we provide meet the community’s needs.”
Interested community members are invited to drop by any time during the open house. For more information or to give your input if you’re unable to attend the open house, e-mail strategicplan@spl.org or contact project lead Eve Sternberg at 386-1119.
