The Library Board presented the results of the Library Survey in a work session at the Library Board meeting on October 20, 2025. This survey was offered electronically during June 2025 and garnered 1,292 responses. The majority of survey respondents are members of households consisting of adults with children under the age of 10, couples without children, and single individuals. This demographic breakdown aligns closely with data from the U.S. Census and the American Census Survey (ACS) for our community.
The Summary Survey and Library Survey Presentation can be found at https://gardencitypl.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Summary-Survey-2025v6.pdf and https://gardencitypl.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Library-Survey-Presntation-2025.pdf, respectively.
- Library Use & Collection Preferences
The survey revealed most patrons visit the Library to borrow materials, books, museum passes, DVDs, and video games. There is strong interest amongst respondents in expanding the adult collection—specifically best sellers and biographies, and offer additional museum passes. Children’s programs are the most popular although the survey showed a clear desire for more diverse and expanded programming. The survey revealed a notable gap between the resources and services patrons use and value, versus their reported level of satisfaction.
- Facilities & Space Needs
With regard to space needs, respondents identified a strong need for more study rooms, meeting/program space for community groups and improved program space. It is worth mentioning that following the development of the Children’s area in 2022, usage, programming, and patron satisfaction significantly improved.
When teen/tweens, adult, large children’s programs, and large group events were scheduled in the lower level, lower satisfaction ratings resulted. In response, the Library Board of Trustees and Administration are developing plans to renovate the lower level. If funding is approved, many of these space-related issues can be addressed.
- Customer Service & Communication
The survey confirmed a need to improve customer service in specific areas of the Library. Respondents also emphasized a desire for stronger communication through:
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- Library’s website,
- Social-media platforms,
- Garden City News.
The Library Board of Trustees and Administration team will be setting priorities, including some identified through the survey, to actively address ongoing website upgrade, social-media reorganization, and collaboration with Garden City News to enhance the visual presentation. Thank you to all who participated.