Somerville Public Library Strategic Planning Survey 2025

Help us plan the future of our public libraries!

The Somerville Public Library is in the process of developing a strategic plan for the next five years. Your feedback will help inform how we develop library collections, programs, services, and spaces. Whether you’re a frequent visitor or you’ve never used the Library, we want to hear from you!

Your participation is voluntary and anonymous. The survey will take about five minutes; please submit your survey by Friday, October 10, 2025. Thank you!

You can take this survey online or on paper at any SPL branch. The City of Somerville can translate this document into your language for free. To request a translated copy, please contact the Somerville Office of Immigrant Affairs at soia@somervillema.gov or call 311 (617-666-3311).

Materials: to browse or borrow books and other itemsPrograms: to attend events, classes, or groupsFacilities: to work, rest, or socialize in a free public spaceServices: to access computers, printing, staff assistance, or other resourcesSomething else:

Central Library (79 Highland Ave)East Branch Library (115 Broadway)West Branch Library (40 College Ave)I use the library online or digitally

If you’re taking the survey on a phone, consider rotating it for a wider view.

	Very Unsatisfied	Unsatisfied	Neutral	Satisfied	Very Satisfied	Not Sure
The ease of borrowing, renewing, or reserving materials
The ease of navigating Library collections, in-person or online
The variety of physical materials available (e.g., books, DVDs, CDs)
The variety of digital materials available (e.g., eBooks, eAudiobooks)
The variety of take-home objects available (e.g., technology, kitchen tools, recreational equipment)

	Very Unsatisfied	Unsatisfied	Neutral	Satisfied	Very Satisfied	Not Sure
The availability of information about Library programs and services
The ease of registering for Library programs
The variety of Library programs available for children (e.g., storytimes)
The variety of Library programs available for teens (e.g., hangouts)
The variety of Library programs available for adults (e.g., book clubs)

	Very Unsatisfied	Unsatisfied	Neutral	Satisfied	Very Satisfied	Not Sure
The operating hours of Library branches
Your proximity to a Library branch
The appearance and functionality of Library buildings
The availability of space in Library buildings (e.g., for working, meetings, events)
The availability of computers and Wi-Fi in Library buildings
The ease of navigating the Library’s website and mobile apps
The knowledge and helpfulness of Library staff

I don’t need to use it (e.g., I buy my own books)I don’t know how to use Library servicesThe Library does not offer what I wantI’ve had negative experiences in the pastLibrary hours are not convenient for meLibrary locations are not convenient for me (e.g., distance, parking)I prefer to use a neighboring public librarySomething else:

Ward 1: Assembly Square, Cobble Hill, East Somerville, Foss Park, Inner Belt, North Point, Mystic RiverWard 2: Boynton Yards, Brickbottom, Duck Village, Union SquareWard 3: Central Hill, Prospect Hill, Spring HillWard 4: Gilman Square, Ten Hills, Winter HillWard 5: Ball Square, Magoun Square, Porter SquareWard 6: Davis Square, Powder House Square, TuftsWard 7: Clarendon Hill, Hillside, Teele Square, Tufts, West SomervillePrefer not to answerI live outside of Somerville, in the city or town of:

Somerville Public Library Strategic Planning Survey 2025

Materials

Programs

Facilities & Services

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