Elyria library seeks community input through online survey

The Elyria Public Library System is asking residents to help shape its future. The library launched an online survey September 25 as part of its strategic planning process. Who can take the survey The survey is open to all Elyria and LaGrange residents. Participants do not need a library card. Library Director Jennifer Starkey stressed that point. "Whether you visit us weekly or have never been to an EPLS branch, your opinion matters," she said. "We're here for the entire community." The survey lets residents share their priorities for the library and their thoughts on its performance. It includes multiple choice and open ended questions. The library estimates it will take less than 10 minutes to complete. It stays live for two weeks. Starkey said community voices are central to the effort. "We are a community institution with resources for all, so it's imperative that the people we serve help to shape our future," Starkey said. "We want our strategic plan to be reflective of our community's needs and priorities as we look ahead to the end of this decade." How the survey fits into the planning process The survey is part of ongoing research by Euclid based Burges & Burges Strategists. The firm began its work in June. It first held one on one interviews with community leaders in education, nonprofits, business and more. Interviews with library board members followed. The firm also led a series of listening sessions with staff and managers at all branches. The library's strategic planning committee will review the survey results. The committee will then develop long term goals, objectives and action steps. Those plans will consider community needs and wants around services, programs, communications and more. Starkey thanked the community for its involvement. "We're fortunate to have an engaged staff, board and community, and it's an honor to have them assist us as we look forward to serving them for many years to come," Starkey said. "We thank the community in advance for your support and participation in the online survey." How to take the survey Residents can complete the survey online at https://research.sogolytics.com/r/yL4Ega .