Library Snapshot Day

Today libraries throughout the state are taking photos of their services and patrons and polling library-goers about their experiences for the second annual Snapshot: One Day In The Life of Connecticut Libraries. The project aims to give both the public and government decision-makers a sense of how many people use their local libraries and the different activities they engage in.

We asked the Meriden Public Library to send over a few of their own snapshots from today's event. Library historian Jan Franco sent us a smattering of the shots she took this morning. In addition to taking photos, staff is handing out questionnaires to patrons today asking what they like best about the library, what could be changed, and what they come to the library for. Comments will be reviewed and shared with the state library system, and photos will end up on a master Flickr site for the state. 

Director Karen Roessler said that the library participated in the event in its inaugural year, 2010, as well -- and that some of the feedback she received was  surprising.

"We received many compliments, which was very nice to hear. For suggestions, it was surprising how many people did come here for a quiet space," Roseler said, adding that though many people came in for the library's new technology, like copy and fax machines and computers, many still used the library in its classic sense, as a quiet place to read or think. 

"That was a bit of an eye-opener," she said. "People who are continuing their education or taking courses need a spot to study or relax outside of the home."

Roesler said that in response to this she is planning to devote library space for a quiet study center when it opens up some time in the next year.