HomeMy WebLinkAboutAgenda Item - 2025-07-01 - Number 06.4 - LAB Youth Survey Update <." 0 COUNCIL REPORT
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OREGO\-\
Subject: Library Advisory Board Youth Survey Update
Meeting Date: July 1, 2025 Staff Member: Melissa Kelly
Report Date: June 13, 2025 Department: Library
Action Required Advisory Board/Commission Recommendation
❑ Motion ❑ Approval
❑ Public Hearing ❑ Denial
❑ Ordinance ❑ None Forwarded
❑ Resolution ❑ Not Applicable
❑X Information Only Comments:
❑ Council Direction Anisha Oruganty, Youth Liaison to the Library
❑ Consent Agenda Advisory Board, will present an overview of her
survey's findings to Council with the support of
Library Director Kelly.
Staff Recommendation: Consider youth survey responses regarding youth needs for library
services and facilities.
Recommended Language for Motion: N/A
Project/ Issue Relates To: City Council Goal to "Develop a strategy for an all-ages and all-
activities community center, preferably on the west side of town, that would include event
and meeting spaces, public services, and may include library services."
Issue before Council (Highlight Policy Question):
❑X Council Goals/Priorities ❑Adopted Master Plan(s) ❑Not Applicable
BACKGROUND
City Council has a goal to "Develop a strategy for an all-ages and all-activities community
center, preferably on the west side of town, that would include event and meeting spaces,
public services, and may include library services."
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In support of this goal, Library Advisory Board (LAB) Youth Liaison, Anisha Oruganty, created
and distributed a survey to Lake Oswego students in grades 6-12 to learn more about their
needs for library services and facilities. LAB's second Youth Liaison, Enid Rittman, also helped
to distribute the survey. The survey was shared with students through LOSD newsletters and
school principals. The survey description explained it is an opportunity for youth to imagine
what an ideal library could be and look like for them. It stated that one idea is to possibly create
a new space in the future that goes beyond books and serves as a community center where
people can learn, connect, and grow with less limitations. It encouraged respondents to look
beyond a traditional library space and think about how a modern space that blends the best
aspects of both a library and a community center could look. The questions in the survey were
both open-ended and multiple choice. All responses were collected anonymously or with
permission to be shared as testimonials, creating an opportunity for honest and creative input.
As of mid-May 2025, 355 responses were collected from middle and high school students.
DISCUSSION
Youth expressed a desire for the library to become a more multifunctional, dynamic, and
inviting space. Students explained that they had a desire for more engaging and comfortable
physical spaces, including cozy seating, natural lighting, and collaborative areas. The current
design was sometimes described as "too dark," or "off-putting," especially during winter when
it is darker outside. Skylights, large windows, and greenery to create a bright and refreshing
space were brought up frequently. Bean bags, couches, and reading nooks or window seats
with cushions tucked away for a more private experience were also common suggestions. The
responses emphasized wanting a multifunctional space that serves as both a study center and a
spot to meet with friends or relax individually during study breaks. A major theme across the
responses was the desire for more spaces that were designed specifically with teenagers in
mind. Another key theme was accessibility, not just when referring to transportation, but also
in inclusive structures that reflect diverse interests and learning styles.
In terms of resources, programs and events, students expressed a desire for maker spaces, new
technology integration, and more cultural events. For example, maker labs for 3D printing,
inventing, building, and collaborating, as well as music studio rooms, coding and electronics
stations, and open art spaces. Many of these ideas reflected a desire for hands-on learning and
recreation along with their formal education. Academic support was another focus. Youth
expressed a desire for spaces dedicated to quiet study with helpful resources like textbooks,
study guides, test preparation events, or peer tutoring. Some suggested dedicated homework
help hours or study skill workshops, which would be particularly helpful for students who
struggle to find similar support in other spaces. Finally, students requested more food options.
Suggestions ranged from snack vending machines to small hydration stations to full cafes. Many
explained that having a comfortable place to eat or drink while studying would make them
more likely to stay longer and return more frequently because of the welcoming,
multifunctional, and casual environment.
Respect, Excel'ence. Trust. Service.
503-635-0215 380 A AVENUE PO BOX 369 LAKE OSWEGO,OR 97034 WWW.LAKEOSWEGO.CITY
Page 3
In conclusion, youth respondents showed a thoughtful understanding of what a library
represents and should provide. They emphasized the importance of maintaining the traditional
strengths while also welcoming new opportunities. While challenges such as transportation,
time constraints, and awareness continue to exist, the survey results clearly demonstrate that
youth are not disinterested in libraries, but instead, they care about the role of it in their lives
and want a space that grows with them, reflects their values, and supports their academic,
creative, and social lives. Students want a library that feels welcoming, dynamic, and modern by
combining traditional quiet zones and access to literature with opportunities for collaboration,
innovation, and connection. By considering the ideas presented here, such as better seating,
outdoor areas, maker spaces, natural lighting, food access, and more visible outreach, our
library has an opportunity to better engage with Lake Oswego's youth. Even small
improvements from this feedback could go a long way in building stronger relationships with
youth visitors. Ultimately, youth want not just a place to read, but a library that continues to be
welcoming, dynamic, and more relevant for them as they continue to grow.
Respect, Excel'ence. Trust. Service.
503-635-0215 380 A AVENUE PO BOX 369 LAKE OSWEGO,OR 97034 WWW.LAKEOSWEGO.CITY