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LONG RANGE PLAN
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Part 6 - Fairfield Public Library Vision for 2010Fairfield
Public Library has become the community hub where people meet,
study, interact, participate in cultural experiences and learn
about activities and events in town and in the area.
The Library is offering programs which meet the expressed desires
of the population, some in cooperation with other community
groups. There are new programs for toddlers, preschoolers,
older children, teens, writers, film buffs, book lovers and
seniors. Fairfield Public Library and Fairfield Woods Branch
Library are recognized for their strong support of the teen
population; young people love to visit the Library to socialize,
to find new books and media for enjoyment, to use the computers,
even to find a part-time job. With a fine collection of books
and media, and outstanding technological resources accessible
on site or from home, school or business, the Library is making
a major impact on the quality of life in Fairfield.
The Library’s support for lifelong learning begins with programs for parents with infants and extends to book discussions and literacy tutoring for new Americans. The public sees the Library as the place to go to learn about new technology. Computers are regularly upgraded and computer labs have been installed in both buildings to facilitate hands-on instruction. Elementary and high school students access the Library’s databases from their classroom or school library to find current maps, almanacs, news articles, encyclopedias, biographical profiles and other resources. Working adults and senior citizens love the convenience of answering their own information questions through their home or office computer. By logging on to Fairfield Public Library’s “Library from Home,” they find business and health information, national and international telephone listings, the full text of domestic and foreign newspapers, electronic books and much more. Information kiosks at train stations and other locations provide connections to the Internet and Library databases as well as live help form the reference desk. An important service of Fairfield Public Library and a reason for its success is its handling of publicity for the community. The Library publicizes local events and municipal services electronically. New residents receive a “Welcome to Fairfield” packet when they apply for a library card. Inside the Library, large bulletin boards display announcements of cultural events, library-sponsored programs, educational opportunities, health-related lectures and services, volunteer opportunities and offerings for children. The
Main Library renovation, completed in 2004, has made the building
much more appealing and functional. Areas of wasted interior
space have been transformed into program rooms, a teen area,
a computer lab, quiet study areas and a small café.
A separate reading room holding magazines and newspapers invites
quiet concentration. At
Fairfield Woods Branch Library, sound containment has been achieved
through the installation of acoustical ceiling tiles and sound
absorbing panels in problem areas. New activities and
programs for all ages have been introduced. New uses of
space include an area for teens, a computer lab and additional
study rooms. Fairfield Public Library has truly become the center of community life, well suited to the variety of activities it provides for the people of the town.
Return to Long Range Plan Contents
July 1, 2003
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