You Won't Know if You Don't Ask

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Gathering patron input is invaluable to understanding the needs and wants of your community.  It’s also a wonderful way to build your library’s green treasure chest.

When was the last time you surveyed your patrons about green issues? Oftentimes, libraries survey their patrons but do not include a section that covers green topics.  Below are a few fast and easy to implement survey ideas to address this:

1. Include a short three-question survey in your library’s newsletter.   
2. Create an online version of your survey using SurveyMonkey and place a link to it on the home page of your library’s web site.
3. Submit a short story to your local newspaper about your library’s green efforts and include your survey.
4. Set out a survey reply drop box in your library to gather feedback from patrons who prefer submitting a hard copy.

Keeping your survey short will increase the likelihood that patrons will take the time to complete it.  It will also save paper as an index card will suffice to capture a patron’s feedback.   

Below are a few questions you may want to consider asking your patrons. I’m sure you can think of others!   

• What green topics are you interested in knowing more about?
• Do you have a green success story or area of expertise that you would be willing to share in a library program?
• Would you like information on becoming a “green your library” volunteer?

Share the feedback you receive from your patrons in your library newsletter and in a follow-up article in your local newspaper.

If possible, offer a small eco-friendly incentive such as a reusable mug or gift card to a green grocer via a random drawing for those who complete the survey.  Studies have shown that this increases the number of responses you will receive and the number of respondents who provide their contact information should you require clarification regarding a response.

Good luck!