I would like to elaborate on the comments included in the opening paragraphs of the Library Director’s article, “The Library Corner”, that appeared on page 30 of last week’s Sun-Times. Now is definitely the time for everyone within the area served by the Smyrna Public Library to take advantage of the opportunity to make their thoughts and ideas known with regard to planning the improvements necessary to maintain adequate library services to our community.

Taking a few minutes now to fill out one of the survey forms is one of the most effective ways for area residents to have their opinions heard and considered during the planning process generally and especially now while representatives of George, Miles & Buhr, LLC, the firm hired to perform the needs assessment report, are in the process of gathering information and have occasion to be in frequent contact with the library staff.

In its final form, the needs assessment report will play an extremely important role in determining the extent to which our community may qualify for financial support from not only government sources but private foundations, the business community, and individual contributors as well. So, I encourage anyone who hasn’t done so already to stop by the Smyrna Public Library to fill out a survey form and thereby make your preferences known while the planning process is in its earliest stage.
   
Another effective way to participate is to become a member of the newly formed Library Guild. Doing so will mean being kept better informed as to the projects overall progress as well as affording a means to continue to have ones ideas heard.
   
Now is the best time to become involved. Those who choose to participate now will have the satisfaction of knowing that they may have influenced the outcome. Those who wait often find their choice is limited to criticizing the outcome and realizing whatever little satisfaction that affords.