E-Books, 'Digital Natives' Factor in Library Planning

The is that will take into account changes in technology, reader habits, research techniques and the publishing industry, according to a consulting firm hired by the Library Board of Trustees.

Alan Burger of Princeton-based Library Development Solutions said in a public hearing about the library Thursday their findings show 30 to 40 percent of library users say they use e-readers frequently. At the same time, e-book software and vendors have policies that are not currently library-friendly, he said.

Meanwhile, residents want more contemporary updates about library events, such as through e-mail. That point was raised by residents Thursday and Burger said he has heard the same issue in smaller meetings with focus groups.

The library also should consider that younger residents are "digital natives," children who grew up with technology and find using it second nature, Burger said, while several adult residents who spoke during the hearing, "digital immigrants," said they value classes about computers and said there might be value in having the library offer one-on-one computer training.

Some of the ideas raised by residents included:

• Installing better outdoor lighting
• Focusing on the "tween" literature collection
• Suggesting residents make a donation for attending events and finding additional revenue streams
• Expanding hours—in the mornings for seniors, at nights for students and on weekends for working parents

Resident John Eickmeyer said he values the library's online services, including the ability to request materials from other libraries through the Morris Automated Information Network, a consortium of Morris County libraries, a sentiment that was echoed by other attendees.

Shannon Sullivan, a junior, said one of the most valuable aspects of the library is it offers a quiet place to work.

Resident and frequent library user Pat Miller said she sees the library as a school for lifelong learning and as a cultural center for Madison.

Maureen Byrne, president of the Friends of the Madison Public Library, said she has a Kindle and iPhone, but still likes reading hardcover books.