Greenwich Library Releases Cos Cob Branch Survey Results

GREENWICH, CT — Greenwich Library recently released the results of a survey that was conducted this spring to examine the community's views about the Cos Cob branch's spaces, collections and services.

According to the library, 2,006 respondents participated in the survey, which was available in multiple languages.

The survey results provided the following key findings:

• Patrons identified collections and book displays as the one element of the branch they use most.
• Most respondents believed that the community room and children’s area had too little space.
• When asked what potential renovations they would prioritize, those who identify as Cos Cob Branch primary users seek to enhance the existing features of Cos Cob Library – for example, by expanding the community room that is used for both children and adult programs – while respondents who do not consider Cos Cob their primary library seek new features for Cos Cob Library, namely dedicated quiet spaces to study, read, or work.
• Many open-ended responses celebrated the quality of the staff and encouraged them to "keep up the good work." Respondents praised the "wonderful" staff for their helpfulness and for creating a welcoming atmosphere.
• Another key theme in the open-ended comments was love for Cos Cob Library and its overall “neighborhood feel,” including its programming, especially children’s programming.

The library's buildings and grounds committee is working with an architect to determine a feasible renovation plan that reflects the needs and interests of the Cos Cob community, the library said in a news release.

Funding for renovations is expected to come from a combination of public and private funding. Decisions regarding the full scope of improvements will be drawn from a composite of counsel gleaned from the community survey, the recently released 2023-2025 Strategic Plan, and input from the Greenwich Library Board of Trustees, the Friends of Cos Cob Library, and Library leadership and staff.

Residents can access the survey summary report here.