Interview with A Librarian

According to Brian Gnerre, adult services librarian at Scotts Valley Public Library, the library has a very active friends group who bring a lot of existing community connections for the library to use in programming. They hold a weekly book sale, Saturday, 10-3 in the fireside room.

Gnerre described Scotts Valley as "kinda a Silicon Valley suburb" as it is the first city past the Santa Cruz mountains that separate Santa Cruz County from Santa Clara County. As a result, there are not only many people in the community who know about modern tech, but also ones with intimate knowledge of older tech. Programs for those who want to learn more about technology run by those with a wealth of technical expertise have been very popular.

One asset that has been wildly popular is the library's 3D printer. Gnerre expected it to be popular with adults, but has found that, in fact, middle schoolers are most enthusiastic about it. In coordination with the library's "Sound Swell" program, Gnerre has invited several local musicians to hold concerts at the library. Musicians are typically surprised to get such an offer from a library, but eager to participate.

In the future, Gnerre aspires to do more in coordination with the Scotts Valley Senior Center across the street (B. Gnerre, personal communication, May 3, 2025).

General Needs & Wants

The community is requesting for more flexible spaces for co-working and community gatherings, showing that they want the library to be a space for collaboration.

They want access to creative tools like 3D printing and podcasting stations, showing that there is a desire for these services.

There was an emphasized need for outdoor programming and nature-linked reading initiatives.

The community wants expanded evening and weekend hours for working families. A majority of parents do not feel safe with allowing their children to wander unsupervised, taking away learning opportunities that their children may want to participate in.

Youth & Teens

• There is a need for creating safe and engaging spaces outside of school hours so that children can socialize and engage in learning opportunities.

• STEAM programs, homework help, and digital skill workshops can help boost learning engagement for children.

• By focusing on youth & teens, the library can partner with local schools, clubs, and tech organizations to develop youth programming.

• This can also promote and leverage youth talent to help create media or zines.