To plan for future growth, the Round Rock Public Library hired a consulting firm and will soon conduct focus groups to assess community needs.

The city hired Godfrey Associates Inc., a library planning firm based in Dallas, at a cost of $94,934 as consultants to spearhead the project. Dick Waters, principal consultant with Godfrey Associates Inc., said the firm's process begins by collecting data such as usage statistics and budget information. Waters said the goal was to identify what area needs are and how well the library is meeting them.

"The biggest challenge [for the library] is to keep pace with the rapid community growth," Waters said. "Just about all assets of the library operation have to be looked at and increased."

Waters said after collecting background data, the firm conducts focus groups, surveys, interviews and other studies. As part of the firm's work, a series of five focus groups will be held Oct. 16–20. Waters said the firm would then analyze its findings and present them to the city sometime next year. He said an architect, technology consultant, children's consultant, marketing and public relations consultant were also included in the cost of services.

Library Director Michelle Cervantes said the firm will help develop a strategic master plan for the future.

"Hopefully [it] will show if we need additional facilities, show us where our gaps in service areas are, or if we need technology upgrades and what they might be," Cervantes said.

Anyone interested in participating in a focus group can contact Cervantes at 218-7010 to register.