Westport, CT - The Westport Library has officially launched a community survey to gauge public sentiment about the Library itself as well as its programs, events, and offerings. The anonymous survey is open to both Westport residents and non-residents as well as Library patrons and those who have never before visited our space.
The survey, open now and available through May 31, takes about 10 minutes to complete and is available atgo.westportlibrary.org/survey or through a computer kiosk set up in the Hub on the Library’s main level.
“We’re very excited to hear back from Westporters and Library users to learn more about what they think about the Library,” said Westport Library Executive Director Bill Harmer. “We’re always diligent in listening to and responding to community feedback. This survey provides us with invaluable information to aid in that endeavor. It also enables us to make the kind of data-driven decisions that we believe will maintain The Westport Library’s place as a true asset to the town and as one of the very best libraries in the country.”
In addition, the results of the survey will inform the Library’s emerging strategic plan, which will guide the Library’s mission and work for years to come. The work on the strategic plan is ongoing, with the plan set to be unveiled to the public later this year.
“The 2025 community survey is a month-long opportunity to participate in shaping the future of The Westport Library,” said Westport Library Chief Impact Officer Tory Donahue. “As part of our strategic planning process, the Library is committed to engaging the entire community in gathering feedback and ideas that will inform our plan.”
Those who opt to participate in the survey will be eligible to win one of a handful of prizes offered to respondents. Available prizes include two sets of Apple AirPods; free drinks at the Library café; Amazon gift cards; and for teens, a delivery of 10 pizzas to the Library during AP exam study times.
For more information on the survey and prizes, please visit The Westport Library website or read our FAQs below.
ABOUT THE SURVEY
Where can I go to take the survey?
It is available at go.westportlibrary.org/survey. You can also fill out the survey on the computer kiosk set up in the Hub on the Library’s main level.
How long does it take?
The survey takes less than 10 minutes.
Is it anonymous?
Yes. The survey can be completed entirely anonymously. You have the option to add your email both to enter the sweepstakes for prizes or to be contacted for follow-up focus groups, but this information will not be associated with your responses.
What is the survey asking about?
To find this information, the survey asks questions about how you are using the Library (or not), what features are a priority for you, and what topics interest you most. Because of our commitment to lifelong learning, the survey also asks your opinions about our role in the community relative to schools. Finally, it asks questions about you and your relationship with and to the Library.
Who will see my answers?
All of the data will be examined collectively and not on the basis of individual responses. Westport Library Chief Impact Officer Tory Donohue will analyze the data and share the results with a strategic planning committee made up of staff and trustees. The strategic plan that emerges from this will be shared with the community.
How will the Library manage the data?
All of our work is done with respect to our Privacy Policy and our Data Collection and Usage statement.
How can I win one of the prizes?
When you take the survey, enter your email when asked if you want to be eligible for a prize. This will be how you are contacted if your name is randomly chosen for a prize.
About The Westport Library
Founded in 1886, built in 1908, and transformed in 2019, The Westport Library is one of the most active and innovative public libraries in the nation, devoted to enriching the intellectual and creative lives of the community. Among its many highlights are a full collection of books for children, teens, and adults; an engaging and colorful Children’s Library; a MakerSpace; a Library of Things; a Seed Library; a robust café and store; and professional art installations that rotate throughout the year. The Westport Library is also home to Verso Studios, replete with an SSL hybrid analog sound studio and broadcast control suite featuring a state-of-the-art console and six robotic cameras, and the Trefz Forum, an open, flexible space that can accommodate up to 600 patrons and features an 18-foot video wall, 35-foot stage, state-of-the-art sound, and theatrical lighting. Situated in the heart of downtown Westport overlooking the scenic Saugatuck River, The Westport Library annually hosts StoryFest, the largest literary festival in Connecticut, and VersoFest, its multi-day music and media festival. Above all, the Library strives to serve the whole community as a vibrant gathering spot where people of all ages come to seek information, gain knowledge, exchange ideas, and share experiences. For more information, visit westportlibrary.org.