The Cardington-Lincoln Public Library applied for and won a $3,000 grant to host a community conversation to discuss what kind of community our neighbors want to live in and how the library could help achieve those goals.  On October 14th, we welcomed a small group to the library and while enjoying some snacks, discussed the aforementioned topics.  Although the group was small, our guests gave us wonderful insight into why they love living in Cardington and what drew them here, if they weren’t originally from the area.  We discussed their thoughts on the library, what we are currently doing that they like and what we could improve on.  We also talked about ways in which the library could become more involved in the community, through greater participation in events and other groups and attracting volunteers to assist with projects at the library. 

Our primary goal for this community conversation was to engage with the public, get their thoughts on the library, and share how the library could benefit them.  One crucial element of the library’s ability to offer resources that the public wants and needs is funding.  The library currently relies solely on the state Public Library Fund for over 88% of its funding, with grants and donations from area residents and businesses filling in the remainder.  Having a steady, reliable source of funding from a levy would be a pivotal point in the growth of the library.  We’re ready to take the information gained from this conversation and put it toward future strategic planning, which will allow the library to center its collection and programs around the needs of the community.  We thank those community members who were able to join us and always welcome feedback and insight from our neighbors on how the library can be the best for Cardington.