Survey Shows Strong Support For Community Library

A new community survey found strong support for the Mastics-Moriches-Shirley Community Library, with residents describing it as a welcoming and valuable community resource and calling for expanded programs and services.

The survey, conducted from Feb. 19 through March 20, drew 437 responses and will help guide the library’s next five-year strategic plan. Respondents said they value the library for programs, learning opportunities, children and family services, materials and community connections.

Nearly 80% selected expanding programs and services as a top priority for the future, while almost 90% rated the library’s role as a safe and welcoming space as “very important.”

Library use was also strong among those surveyed. Roughly two-thirds reported using the library at least monthly, including 20.59% who visit weekly and 15.33% who use it more than once a week. Just 4.35% said they do not currently use the library.

Programs have become nearly as important as books. About 65% said they visit for programs or events, while 64.30% said they come to borrow books or other materials.

“The survey gives us valuable guidance as we plan for the future,” Library Director Lonna Castro said. “We are grateful to everyone who took the time to share their thoughts. The results show that residents deeply value the Library, and they also gave us thoughtful feedback about how we can continue to improve and better serve the community.”

Customer service received particularly high marks. Some 67.22% rated their most recent experience as excellent and another 21.77% called it good. Only two respondents rated their experience as poor.

Residents also identified priorities for the future. Education and tutoring received support from 69.70% of respondents, followed by early literacy and youth development at 60.84% and mental wellness and social connection at 56.65%.

Respondents asked for more evening and weekend programs, additional space in popular programs, expanded collections and digital resources, and improvements involving parking, seating, study space and accessibility.

The Mastics-Moriches-Shirley Community Library has served Mastic, Mastic Beach, Shirley and Moriches since 1974.