Give Your Input on the Library of the Future

Public input into Scarsdale Library 2020, the strategic planning process undertaken by the Scarsdale Library Board to set a vision and roadmap for the next decade, will be sought on Monday, November 1 at 8 p.m. at the Scarsdale Library.

The session, an important component of the effort, will seek the views of residents on such areas as what new services, improvements and resources they want; what changes should the library plan for; how should the role of the library in the community evolve over the next decade; and how should the library harness new technology.

“The last strategic plan for the library was prepared in 1991,” said Sara Werder, Library Board President. “As we all know, advances in technology and lifestyle changes since then have had a dramatic impact on our lives. The library wants to stay current with these changes and is seeking input from the community on our future direction and services and the evolving role of the library in the community. We also want to know what we should keep and to hear your concerns.”

The public session is part of the second phase of the strategic planning process. Phase I involved a review and analysis of current library operations and procedures by Alan Gray, a consultant retained to work with the Library Board and the library administration and staff on the plan. Phase II includes community input, with the November 1 open meeting, several focus groups and discussions with community leaders. At the completion of Phase II, the Board will develop the plan based on an analysis of current operations, projections into future use of the library and the information gathered from the community. The plan will be completed during the spring.

“The Scarsdale Library is one of the crown jewels of our community and used by a broader range of residents than any other organization,” Werder said. “This really is your library and we want to have as much input from you, the residents, as possible.”

Residents, whether they attend the meeting or not, can mail their comments to Elizabeth Bermel, Director, Scarsdale Public Library, 54 Olmsted Road, Scarsdale, NY 10583, or fill out the survey on the library website or get a copy at the library.

The strategic planning process is funded by the Friends of the Scarsdale Library.