By Katie Farrell
Staff writer
May 29, 2008 03:44 am AMESBURY — As the public library looks to secure a $5,000 grant, staff are looking for help from both patrons and nonusers. A 20-question survey for people at least 45 years old will be available, starting this week, at several places around town. The library is focusing on expanding programs based on the needs of the baby boomer and older adult population. Questions are general interest-based and ask participants about things like hobbies, how they spend free time or what's important to them, Children's Room assistant Crystal Arnott said. The library is working toward an EqualAccess Libraries grant. The professional development program trains public librarians to address their community's needs by information gathering and development of strategic partnerships with local organizations. The blue surveys will be available at Town Hall, the Senior Center, Heritage Towers, Sew Sweet Tailoring, St. James Church, Market Street Baptist Church and the library. The deadline for the surveys is July 15. In the upcoming weeks, staff will be forming focus groups to learn information and opinions from library users and nonusers of all ages. To sign up for a group, contact Assistant Director Patty DiTullio at 978-388-8148. That information will then be used to develop programs. Library staff will use the skills they get from professional development workshops and the grant to develop new services based on their findings. The information will be used to create "innovative works and plans" at the library, DiTullio said recently.
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