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Plainsboro Public Library
On, Wednesday, October 24th 2012 New Jersey libraries of all types joined forces to collect statistics, stories, photographs and videos to illustrate how libraries are being used, the number of people using them and patron comments about how important libraries are to their communities. The goal of this effort was to provide a snapshot of what happens in a typical day in the life of NJ libraries – from checking out books and helping children with homework, to helping residents find jobs, do their taxes, start their own businesses and much more.
The typical day at Plainsboro included over 770 customer visits, 907 items checked out, a babies' story time program, Tamil and chess classes, tutoring sessions and a Blood Drive. Thank you to the 58 patrons who filled out surveys and to everyone who agreed to let us take your picture!
Most of the feedback on the surveys was positive – it’s nice to hear we’re doing a good job.
“This is the best library in the state! The entire staff is fantastic, helpful, knowledgeable and wonderful. Thank you for such a wonderful library/staff. I work in Plainsboro and I look forward to going to the library.”
“The library has a learning atmosphere. It’s quiet and has a good collection of books, CD’s, children’s programs, and a lot of international festivals are celebrated here. The staff is very helpful & supportive. I get a lot of information (general) from the Plainsboro Library.”
“I’ve been using the library frequently as a place to work away from my home and office while I’m working on a writing project. It’s a great place for me to get work done away from distractions. I’m also always impressed by how busy and well-used the library is.”
“We love our Plainsboro Library and rate it as one of the best in the country. The staff is one of the friendliest and we appreciate the effort that is exerted by all to maintain such a vibrant place. Thank you.”
“Plainsboro Library is the best in the State. The Children’s staff is the best in the U.S.”
“Extremely inviting, my 4 yr. old doesn’t want to leave.”
“This is not just a library. I would rather call it a development center that aims at uplifting the human nature and spirit of all who enter it. Each level is carefully planned and people all totally dedicated. The people who work here understand books can make scholars but to be a better person one needs a broader horizon that leads to real experience.”
We also received a few suggestions and a complaint – we will be reviewing those with the staff to see how/if we need to change anything. We try to do our best at all times to please the majority of the people.
THANK YOU ALL FOR PARTICIPATING!!
Snapshot Day is a joint project of the New Jersey State Library and the New Jersey Library Association. Established in 2009, Snapshot Day is a model of collaboration and a great example of a multi-type library project that captures the impact that New Jersey libraries have on their communities on a typical day. Snapshot Day began in NJ and has been replicated in more than 30 states across the country and has gone international. The project received the 2011 American Library Association President’s Advocacy Award and was adopted by the American Library Association as a national program.
