Addison Public Library invites community to share their feedback July 31

The Addison Public Library has heard the community's concerns regarding the rush of young patrons who come to the library after school, and is now inviting Addison residents to come together for a discussion.

On Wednesday, July 31, from 6 to 8 p.m., the library will hold a "Community Conversation" in which attendees will have an opportunity to share their feedback while sharing a meal.

Similar to the library's "On the Table" event in May that discussed teen mental health in the Addison community, the "Community Conversation" will have small table discussions with a library staff member moderating each table.

Staff will answer questions, explore what the library currently does to support Addison's teen population, and actively participate in the discussion.

Participants are encouraged to ask questions and propose possible ways to manage the flow of after-school students.

Recent social media commentary about young patrons in the library prompted Director Mary Medjo Me Zengue to invite those available to a May 15 meeting in which attendees could voice their opinion and ask questions.

The initial meeting was small, and Medjo Me Zengue knew more people may be interested in participating in the dialogue about students in the library, so library staff started planning the "Community Conversation."

"We are proud of the fact that so many local teens want to spend time at the library, but also recognize the challenges presented by having so many of them in our building after school each day," Medjo Me Zengue said.

"We want to ensure the library is welcoming to residents of all ages and hope that by talking about these challenges together, we can find ways to address these challenges and improve the level of service we offer to the community," Medjo Me Zengue said.

Space is limited to 30.

Registration is required for those who would like to attend.

Register on the library's website at www.addisonlibrary.org or by calling (630) 458-3320.