Community members can weigh in on the direction Capital Area District Libraries will take in the next few years — including the future of its branch in downtown Lansing.
Jenny Marr, CADL's executive director, said she expects the downtown branch to be one of several topics that come up during a series of community conversations the library system plans to host while working on a new strategic plan.
The library system has considered leaving its location on Capitol Avenue due to high maintenance costs.
“Knowing that the strategic planning process is coming up gives us a wonderful opportunity to hear what people think and help inform on what’s truly important to them,” Marr said.
CADL created its current strategic plan in 2020.
Working on a new plan offers an opportunity for community members to shape how the library can help them, whether they currently have a library card or not, Marr said.
“I would like to hear, if people aren’t using the library right now, why is that?” Marr said. “Is there a barrier to their access, you know, something actually logistical?”
The library plans to host a series of listening sessions throughout its service area. The community conversations are scheduled for 2 p.m. on Tuesday, March 25 in Williamston; 6 p.m. on Tuesday, March 25 in Okemos; 10:30 a.m. on Friday, March 28 in Mason; 5:30 p.m. on Friday, March 28 in south Lansing and 1 p.m. on Sunday, March 30 in downtown Lansing. There will also be ways to offer feedback online.
The final strategic plan is expected to be shared this summer.
CADL is a financial supporter of WKAR.
Produced with assistance from the Public Media Journalists Association Editor Corps funded by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, a private corporation funded by the American people.