Ready to Launch Research partnered with a municipal library system to conduct a comprehensive community needs assessment aimed at shaping the library's long-term strategy. The study explored key questions such as: What services do residents most need? How can the library expand its role as a community hub? What programming, communication, and facility changes are most vital for increasing public engagement? This work informed deliverables including a comprehensive report, a five-year strategic plan, and a staff development workshop.
Ready to Launch Research employed a multi-method qualitative approach with a total sample of 176 community members. Fourteen in-person focus groups were conducted with diverse community segments including teens, parents, seniors, and multilingual households. Research was conducted in Mandarin, Spanish, and English to ensure broad representation and inclusivity. Additional virtual interviews and focus groups included library staff, volunteers, and key opinion leaders from education, civic, and business sectors. Activities included card sorts, website user testing, and creative exercises to generate actionable insights around technology access, cultural programming, public awareness, and equity in service delivery.
The research identified core opportunities to modernize and expand the library’s role in the community. Key findings led to targeted recommendations around bilingual services, expanded digital literacy programming, culturally inclusive events, and physical space upgrades. The final deliverables—a detailed report, five-year strategic plan, and staff workshop—are guiding the library’s transformation into a welcoming, tech-forward, multi-generational hub. Insights are also helping to close communication gaps and foster partnerships that support equity, belonging, and lifelong learning. This project positions the library to serve as a critical resource in addressing local educational, social, and technological needs.
