Photo by Source: Frisco Public LibraryTechnology, future needs and expansion are topics of study
The Frisco Public Library has seen a slew of changes in the last few months, including extended hours, a mobile app and a Learn4Life program. The changes are all part of the master plan that will be further implemented in 2014.
Library Director Shelley Holley said the main goals for 2014 include surveying the public and understanding what Frisco citizens want from their library.
"[This is] the citizens' [library], it doesn't matter what we want," Holley said. "We're spending a lot of time making sure we get plenty of information."
The Frisco Public Library has been working with Maureen Arndt and her 720 Design consulting team to better grasp the direction of the library and the public's use of it.
The firm is in the beginning stages of gathering data about the library, city, local businesses and community, which will guide the library to develop the best plan of action for the future.
"There are many opportunities for Frisco citizens to participate and offer input during the master-planning process," Arndt said.
Starting in late March, Holley said a phone survey will be sent out to gather information about the public's needs for the library. Then on April 2 and 3, citizen focus groups will participate in a survey about library expectations and what they would like to see developed.
"It's really an opportunity for them to tell us what their vision of Frisco is and where the library fits within that," Holley said.
Through the studies, Holley is looking at various options for expanding the Frisco Public Library.
"When this building was designed, it was designed with expansion in mind," Holley said.
Technology updates
On Feb. 12, the library released a new service known as Zinio, an online resource that allows anyone with a Frisco library card to check out a selection of about 30 various magazines such as Bloomberg Businessweek and Cosmopolitan.
A Frisco library app also helps patrons on the go stay organized with their own account. With the app, users can search for books, make renewals and reserve study rooms. E-books have accounted for 10 percent of circulation, Holley said.
A 3D printer has also been ordered and will soon debut at the library, Holley said. The state-of-the-art machine will allow patrons to print a three-dimensional, plastic object of any shape from a digital model.
"Libraries have always offered technology to people who can't afford it," she said. "It's a part of being technologically literate."
Classes are abundant at the Frisco library, and Holley said the Learn4Life program has gained momentum since the beginning of this year. The program offers 300 online, instructor-led courses ranging from business to parenting classes.
Holley said the library's programs are not age-restricted. From Spring Break programs and summer reading courses to tax-assistance classes, Holley said the library serves readers "from the cradle to the grave."
"The library is the city's educational arm," Holley said.
Frisco Public Library details
6101 Frisco Square Blvd.
972-292-5669
- Watch the Frisco Public Library website for upcoming information about how to participate in focus groups aimed at developing the library's future plans.
- An app for keeping track of your library account, is available for most smart phones and tablets—the app is called Frisco Public Library.
- Zinio, an online resource allowing anyone with a library card to access about 30 magazines —is free. Find the service online.
