Cape May County Library main branch, 30 Mechanic St., Court House. Photos by Al Campbell

COURT HOUSE — A recent survey by the Cape May County Library found that only 4 percent of patrons said they were against moving the main branch from Mechanic Street to a new location near the county zoo.

Library Director Deborah Poillon told the Herald 358 people responded to the 13-question survey conducted over a period of about one month. Of that total, 258 customers filled out a paper survey while 100 users responded to the survey online.

The survey asked patrons to rate how important certain library items, amenities, facilities and services were to them.

Survey results indicated that adult books, DVDs and books on CD were “very important” to a large number of customers. Good lighting, comfortable seating and quiet work areas were also seen as “very important” as were computer access, summer reading programs and story times.

Poillon noted the high number of responses to teen-services questions. In that category, 167 customers said that teen books were “very important” while 139 cited quiet homework areas and 106 favored teen programs such as Game Night.

She said she was pleased that so many teens responded to the survey.

Poillon also noted her surprise that that so many customers wanted the new library building to be “green,” with 255 responders saying it was “very important” that the county use energy efficient and environmentally-friendly technology.

“There were even more who wanted a ‘green’ building than those who wanted better parking,” Poillon told the Herald noting that parking has always been one of the main problems with the current site.

The survey also allowed responders to make recommendations about what they would like or not like to see in the new building. About 50 percent made comments, Poillon said. Under these questions, she received only 14 responses against a move to a new location.

While plans to move the library have not been finalized, preliminary discussion has dealt with an area near the Cape May County Park and Zoo.

Poillon said a partnership with the zoo would offer benefits to both agencies. She noted potential children’s programming using animals and tours of the zoo. She said the zoo would also be able to use the library facilities for educational programs important for certain certifications.

Poillon also noted that a move to the zoo would fit with the state’s preference that local agencies attempt to share governmental services.

For complete story see next week’s Herald print edition.

Contact Hart at (609) 886-8600 Ext 35 or at: jhart@cmcherald.com