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Library posts surveys, plans focus groups to get patron feedback

FILE PHOTO/JERRY SPAR

The Hopkinton Public Library is seeking input from residents as it begins the nearly year-long process of developing its next five-year strategic plan.

Last week, the HPL put out a call for survey responses both from teens and its general patrons. The teen survey, which is aimed at ages 12-19, seeks specific data about youth experience at the library and how teens use HPL’s resources. The general survey asks specific questions about patrons’ visit frequency, ratings of the facilities and staff, and the programs and services they value most.

HPL’s reference and technology supervisor Danielle Wolber, who also is serving as interim co-assistant director, noted that the surveys are not limited to just those responses. Each provides space for additional comments, and residents have the option to let staff know directly, she noted.

The library will hold an in-person strategic plan focus group Saturday for patrons who are interested in giving their feedback in person. No registration is required to attend.

Wolber explained that the library’s current five-year strategic plan is set to expire at the end of this year. Despite current changes in leadership following the resignations of both director Nanci Hill and assistant director Jak Miller, the HPL pressed forward with the planning process.

“The strategic plan is something we need to do regardless of what our leadership looks like at the moment,” said Wolber.

She said the majority of the work involved with the plan will be handled by a consultant. Gathering community feedback is just one part of the process. and other stakeholders — including the Library Board of Trustees and the Hopkinton Public Library Foundation — will be asked to provide input as well.

According to Wolber, the completed plan must go on file with the state so the library can maintain its eligibility for grant funding. However, the input gained during the process can help the HPL understand what it is doing well and what it can improve and expand upon, she stressed.

The strategic plan is anticipated to take about a year to complete. “It’s a long process, but it’s really important to do this to know where we’re headed,” said Wolber.

She added that there is hope that a new library director will shepherd the strategic plan along. “If we have a director on board to help us finish this process, fantastic,” said Wolber. Either way, she said “we’re still going to make it happen.”

— NICK SCHOFIELD

Latest News

This week’s Real Estate Transactions list shows seven homes sold, including two for over $1 million.

The latest Library Corner features information on a building program for kids, a play, learn and grow group and the last installment of a workshop about the environment and human health.

Charles Carlstrom, 83, died Sept. 25. He was a longtime resident of Hopkinton until he retired from teaching in 1994.

The Friends of Whitehall will hold its annual fall lake and trail cleanup on Oct. 17.

Town meetings tonight include the Conservation Commission (7).

Photo of the Day

Sarah Mayo (right) holds a rooster lamp in place while Jim Bright attempts a fix during the annual repair fair at the Hopkinton Senior Center on Saturday.

PHOTO/NICK SCHOFIELD