Wauconda library patrons want better access to building, survey reveals
Editor's note: To clarify, one survey question asked the 72 people who said they seldom or never use the library why they don't visit more often. Thirty of them - about 41 percent - said the library is too far from their homes. Additionally, 28 of the people who indicated they seldom or never use the library - more than 38 percent - said they don't know what the library can do for them.
Wauconda Area Library patrons would like easier access to the building from the parking lot, newly released survey data reveals.
Nearly 55 percent of people surveyed in the fall classified improved building access as an issue of "highest priority" or "higher priority."
Patrons now must climb a flight of stairs or use a long ramp to enter the building at 801 N. Main St.
More than 2,000 people completed the survey, the results of which were shared with the Daily Herald.
While improved access was of great interest, people weren't as keen on the idea of an outdoor reading garden or courtyard.
Only about 37 percent said such an area is an issue of "highest priority" or "higher priority."
Less than 28 percent of respondents said creating a drive-up window for picking up materials should be a priority.
Those three possible improvements were specified in the survey because library officials are developing a construction plan that would include all of them in phases, Director Tom Kern said.
"The first phase is most likely to be the reconfiguration of the front stairs and walkways," Kern said. "We're hoping that a reading garden and pathway around the back of the library grounds will be included with Phase I, but this will depend on affordability."
In addition to asking people about facility improvements, the survey aimed to determine why people use - or don't use - the library.
One question asked patrons what changes might entice them to visit more often.
Nearly 25 percent said more programs or classes that interest them would get them to the library more.
Additionally, nearly 18 percent said eliminating overdue fines - a change a few suburban libraries have made - would lure them more often. That move isn't being considered in Wauconda now, but it could be an option, Kern said.
Another question asked what changes would entice people to check out more books, DVDs or CDs.
Having more copies of popular titles was the most popular response, with nearly 37 percent of respondents selecting it. The creation of a drive-up window for pickups and returns was the second most-popular suggestion at nearly 23 percent.
One question asked the 72 people who said they seldom or never use the library why they don't visit more often.
Thirty of them - about 41 percent - said the library is too far from their homes. Additionally, 28 of the people who indicated they seldom or never use the library - more than 38 percent - said they don't know what the library can do for them.