The city and the Jacksonville Public Library system are starting work on a master plan for five urban libraries: Bill Brinton Murray Hill, Brentwood, Brown Eastside, Dallas Graham and Westbrook.Aaron Cohen Associates has been hired to facilitate what’s being called a “community-focused design process,” to determine the libraries’ future direction.
Area residents are invited to take an online survey and fill out an online form to receive updates on the 21st Century Urban Branch Study.
Residents without internet access can request a paper copy of the survey at any of the five branches.
The survey will provide what officials call “critical research” for this envisioning project, which will continue over the next several months.
Officials said the survey will help determine “the necessary enhancements, renovations, expansions or replacements of these smaller, older branches so they can adeptly meet the needs of the communities they serve now and in the future.”
Webinars, focus group meetings, walking tours and other activities are also being held to answer questions and gather feedback for the project.
The public meetings are scheduled for 4:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. as follows:
- Westbrook Branch Library (2809 Commonwealth Ave. – 32254) – Monday, June 21
- Brown Eastside Branch Library (1390 Harrison St. – 32206) – Tuesday, June 22
- Brentwood Branch Library (3725 N. Pearl St. – 32206) – Thursday, June 24
- Bill Brinton Murray Hill Branch Library (918 Edgewood Ave. S. – 32205) – Monday, June 28
- Dallas Graham Branch Library (2304 Myrtle Ave. N. – 32209) – Tuesday, June 29
Participants can also take guided tours at 5 p.m. or 6 p.m. during each branch's meeting. Then each guest will be able to complete a short survey identifying the branch’s strengths and weaknesses. Light refreshments will be available.
“I hope all Duval residents who care about the success of their families, friends and neighbors will take this survey to help maximize the impact of this project,” said Mayor Lenny Curry in a statement.
Bill Bortzfield can be reached at bbortzfield@wjct.org or on Twitter at @BortzInJax.
