Reinventing the Public Library System

About the Program

Category: Libraries (Best in Category)

Year: 2017

Technology has changed the world and libraries are among the many services that are struggling to keep up with the shift in visitor needs and expectations. The Cape May County Library, similar to others, was facing aging infrastructure, declining visitors and lagging in technology. Steps were taken to stay ahead, but they had to reinvent themselves to keep up with the growing demands. New programs were needed to draw new patrons and retain existing ones. Based on county demographics, the libraries needed to become community centers that offered more than what existed. The County has 95,000 winter residents, an aging population, a seasonal tourism economy and a high employment rate. The eight libraries within the system needed updating to better address change and stay relevant. Through a series of meetings, the Library Commission, Freeholders and local officials, a plan to renovate, expand or rebuild the existing eight structures was developed. The challenges were huge but not insurmountable. The concept was to create community centers that would attract visitors of all ages, incorporate new programs to meet the changing needs. Each building required specific design elements to fit within the character of the community. By the end of 2016, overall growth at the eight libraries increased by 37%