Week 17 - Community Voice

WHAT WE LEARNED

Several weeks ago community leaders representing many community groups came together at the Library to discuss the future of Elmhurst and the library’s role in that future. The discussion was facilitated by our strategic planning consultant Maureen Sullivan. Here is some of what we learned.

What would the preferred future of Elmhurst include?
Elmhurst would be a diverse community, tolerant of differences in lifestyles, cultures, and abilities/disabilities. It would be an inclusive community and (in the broadest sense) accessible. There would be equity among the various parts of the community. All schools would operate at an equally high-quality level and there would be more diversity in housing choices. There would be strong connections and collaboration between all community groups – political, schools, parks, cultural institutions, and businesses. People of all generations would be actively engaged in the life of the community and well-informed about issues affecting Elmhurst. There would be a concentration on wellness and healthy lifestyles and Elmhurst would be an environmentally friendly community. There would be good transportation options, good signage, and no crime.

How can the community achieve the preferred future?
We need to focus on improving economic vitality and keep the downtown vibrant. We need to address the lack of diversity in housing and continue to use good economic tools for community development. Elmhurst needs to understand and embrace the economic impact of businesses in the community and the extent to which they support the community. We need to see the interdependence among organizations and groups and to see and promote the value of nonprofit organizations. Elmhurst should work to establish a set of common values and ideals, seek to establish equity, and design ways to promote an appreciation of differences.


How can the library contribute?
The library can be a role model for collaboration, focus on the needs of others, and have a win/win/win attitude. We can develop stronger collaborations with local museums, the park district, and other libraries to help support and promote their efforts. We can partner with school districts to provide resource materials for students, and look for new ways to address the problem of serving those in unincorporated areas. The library should promote literacy development in a variety of ways and at all levels. We should expand outreach efforts and find ways to bring in those who are not coming. We should serve all ages. We can be a conduit for information and facts about the community (activities, events, data, political issues, etc.) and ensure that Elmhurst residents are well informed about local issues. The library should provide a well trained, well- educated staff, who can take full advantage of all available resources for the benefit of residents. The library should look for ways to promote and market what we have to offer. And last but not least, the library should offer more expanded hours, such as after 5 p.m. on Saturdays.