Last month both our branches participated in a statewide public relations campaign sponsored by NYLA the New York Library Association called Library Snapshot Day. Each participating library picks a day and tracks how busy they were that day and asks customers to fill out a comment sheet. The sheet asks them to briefly write down why libraries are important to them. We also ask them to include their age and gender. We share the information with local elected officials and then send it to NYLA. They collate it and review it with legislators in Albany when lobbying for libraries. We have a lot of fun on that day as we have snacks and activities for visitors and get to communicate a lot with out customers as they fill out their comment sheets. I thought it might be illuminating to occasionally share some of the customer comments with you. Below are the first few comments that came in and I’ll be sharing more in the coming weeks. As always, your comments are welcome!
Illiteracy is a growing problem. We came from generations of people not able to read because of circumstances or never having been taught. We may be in for the same problem if we cannot keep books near to the people who need and want them no matter their financial situation may be. Many families are on strict budgets and rely on the library for their entertainment and fun. (Female, age 48)
Libraries are most important to me because they serve as wonderful resources. Since retirement, I’ve been heavily involved in many activities that often require presentations for group agencies. I got much of my material from the library which helps to document my texts in my speeches. I am also a children’s storyteller and receive books and ideas on how to tell stories effectively and how to keep my audience entertained. It helps to create a love for language and creativity. I also use the library for computer use. (Female, age 60)
Great local history section. I’m tracking down a 7 part art series on the Genesee Valley I never heard of before. I found 5 so far! Without internet at home, the library access is valuable to me! (Male, age 52)
Libraries are important to me because I get good movies and books. (Male, age 9)
It’s a fun place to hang out. (Male, age 12)
I’ve been coming to the library most afternoons since my family moved to Irondequoit when I was in first grade. Now I’m a junior in high school, and I can’t imagine what I would do without it. It has one of the friendliest and most helpful staffs I’ve ever met, and the DVD and book collections are awesome. The library is one of the best things going for this town; theirs is the last budget that should be cut. (Female, age 16)
I like this library because the people here are very helpful and nice. Also, I can usually always find the books I’m looking for. (Female, age 14)
I’m a stay-at-home mom, and my kids love coming to story time and getting new books each week. Plus it gives me a chance to get out of the house without emptying our bank account. (Female, age 28)
The library allows me to find books I need for school that otherwise are not in my school library. It also helps me broaden my music genres and the librarians help with all my book finding problems. (Male, age 17)
Since retirement, our local library has provided me a valuable source of books, tapes and information. I typically visit 2-3 times a week. Please keep their valuable resources funded. (Male, age 59)
We use the library very often. We don’t watch TV with our son (3 ½) so books are very important. Also, it’s totally not affordable to buy all of the books and magazines we need. We borrow books on how to do everything. And we can try before we buy. The library is VERY important to our family. (Female, age 34)
I’m a senior and retired. Libraries are a God send for us. It keeps our minds active and gives us somewhere to go! (Female, age 80)
Published on March 31, 2011.
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