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Roseburg Public Library shares community survey: patrons ask for more hours, outreach and digital access
Summary
Staff presented a 273‑response community survey and focus‑group feedback showing strong appreciation for staff and children’s programming, calls for expanded hours and outreach, and interest in improved digital services; staff announced staffing changes and potential grants for boardroom technology.
Roseburg Public Library staff presented the results of a community survey and focus groups during a board meeting, reporting that 273 responses were received and identifying hours, outreach and awareness of digital services as the clearest areas for improvement.
The presenter told the board the survey returned 273 total responses, with 76 mailed returns and the remainder submitted online or in person. The mailed batch had a roughly 19 percent response rate from 400 mailed surveys sent across four quadrants, the presenter said. Focus groups included an adult session (eight participants) and a youth/parent session (about 10 participants).
Why it matters: Board members and staff said the findings will guide outreach and programming priorities ahead of the next budget cycle and the library’s strategic‑plan update. Survey respondents praised staff helpfulness and the library’s role as a community space, and frequently cited children’s programming and the collection as key assets.
Key findings included disproportionate online participation from adults ages 30–39, limited awareness of the library’s digital collections and online services among many respondents, and repeated public requests for extended operating hours and freer access for residents outside city limits. On nonusers, the most common reasons for not using the library were the cost of nonresident cards, inconvenient hours during typical work hours, and access to materials online or via private purchase.
Staff framed the responses as both validation and direction. The director noted the library’s hours are constrained by the current budget and staffing levels, and HR will recruit two library‑aide positions to replace a promoted staff member and fill an additional role, with a target onboarding in mid‑September.
Summer programs and outreach: Staff outlined a summer reading program running June 1 through Aug. 24, daily youth programming and storywalk events at Stewart Park. Recent program attendance included about 58 participants at a family event and separate children’s and teen programs that drew 46 and 32 attendees, respectively. Youth focus group participants expressed strong interest in mobile outreach and library services outside the building; staff said that objective aligns with the library’s strategic plan.
Digital and volunteer data: Staff reported digital circulation made up about 34 percent of total circulation during the period presented. Volunteers contributed about 183 hours last month, largely tied to a post‑sale effort.
Publication and next steps: Board members asked whether the survey results and presentation materials would be posted publicly; staff said they will put the presentation and notes on the library website. Staff also recommended using the survey to refine outreach channels and to prioritize modest program expansions that fit within current budget limits. The board set its next meeting for July 16.
