O.B. libraries get A plus, but new library panned By natalie m. vena OLD BRIDGE — Old Bridge libraries have received a stamp of approval from township residents. A survey of both the main branch library and the Laurence Harbor branch was conducted by the Eagleton Institute of Politics Center for Public Interest Polling, based in New Brunswick. Results of the survey were presented at Monday night’s township meeting. More than 1,000 Old Bridge residents participated in the survey. At the main branch library, 352 patrons were interviewed, 72 were interviewed at the Laurence Harbor branch and 640 received a scientific sample survey through the mail. Overall, both library branches received very high approval ratings, according to Patrick Murray, senior research analyst at the Eagleton Institute. "Fifty-five percent of the people interviewed were very satisfied with the libraries and 38 percent were somewhat satisfied," said Murray. Three-quarters of the patrons surveyed indicated that library collections are large enough for their needs. When it came to personalized service, both libraries received high ratings, but Laurence Harbor edged out the main branch on service issues. Eighty-two percent of patrons considered the main branch staff to be very helpful, compared to 98 percent at Laurence Harbor. According to Library Director, Ed Troike, Laurence Harbor is a small community centered library where the librarians know their patrons on a first name basis. Additional aspects of the libraries were rated including safety, comfort, locations and courtesy of the staff. Some patrons were dissatisfied with the small collection of non-English books, variety of newspapers and microfilm available. But overall, 74 percent were satisfied. The survey was conducted to generate ideas for future activities, to rate present activities and to determine if residents desire another library to be added to the southern area of Old Bridge. The majority of residents surveyed said they do not feel a need to have a closer library. The survey asked if residents would pay a small tax increase to support a new library. Approximately 75 percent responded no, 9 percent said they would pay $10 or more in taxes to support a new library, 4 percent would pay $6 to $10, and 6 percent would pay $1 to $5. According to the survey, a vast majority of township residents said the main branch library is easily accessible. Some participants were unaware of services presently available at the library. Residents requested notary public services, Internet classes and music CD-ROMs, all of which are presently available. People surveyed would like to see a type of coffee house service added to the libraries and requested that special activities, such as seminars on financial planning and health issues, should be videotaped and broadcast over the public access cable station, noted Rita Peterson, a trustee on the library board of directors. At the conclusion of the presentation, Councilman Richard Green inquired what the next steps were, based on the results of the survey. Troike stated that he would like to study a few local libraries to see how they are run and would like to continue improving both library’s collections and services. "Even though the survey is completed, we are always looking for suggestions," said Troike. Two complete copies of the survey are available at both library’s reference desks.