* Update - March 2008

* Focus Groups

* Focus Group Summary

* Focus Group Attachment 1:
  Questions

* Letting Libraries Lead the Way

* Background

* Top 10 Reasons
    to Support the Library of
    Fanwood & Scotch Plains

* FAQs
    (Frequently Asked Questions)

* Meet Our Consultants

The Fanwood and Scotch Plains Libraries have used Interlocal Shared Services Agreements since 2005 to:
     *  Share a common library automation system and reciprocal borrowing
     *  Save money and effectively maximize the use of existing funds though cooperative efforts
     *  Forge a collaborative relationship with the existing joint school system
     *  Improve and upgrade both library's materials, shared policies, programming and staff
        development
     *  Support electronic connectivity and to promote public awareness of joint services
     *  Expand a joint digitization project of historical materials now available on the web at:
          www.thejointlibrary.org/archives

Based on this already demonstrated success in sharing library resources, the Borough of Fanwood and the Township of Scotch Plains are interested in examining the feasibility of creating a joint public library in a new shared facility to replace the two existing, aging buildings. The Library Boards in Scotch Plains and Fanwood have recognized the need for a new joint facility which would more effectively serve the residents of both communities. A modern, library facility would increase the existing combined square footage by at least 50% and would be centrally located with good walking and driving access for all residents. Building one new library to serve the residents of both towns will achieve economy of scale in providing high-quality library services for all 30,000 residents without duplication of staffing, materials, and all fixed costs associated with building and maintaining two library facilities.

A SHARE GRANT was obtained from the NJ DCA to support the feasibility studies that a project of this magnitude and complexity will demand on a variety of issues associated with the establishment of a joint library with the assistance of professional consultants. The results of this study will confirm whether this project can move successfully forward towards the implementation phase.