Finding our focus

Beth Mainiero shared open time with library staff to get an insider’s view of the good, the bad and the hoped for of the libraries in Shelton. The hour long session during regular staff meeting time on Friday, Jan. 11 yielded three pages of comments, concerns and suggestions. Following that, Ms Mainiero met with the Long Range Planning Committee to get other views on how the citizens of Shelton see the library - as it was, as it is and as it could become. Each member of the committee was challenged to get three other Sheltonites to attend one of the forthcoming focus groups. But don’t wait for an invitation – register now.

The Library Board of Directors and the Library Long Range Planning Committee want to help residents create local libraries that are ideal places to get what is needed and wanted in Shelton. What we need is a plan!

Now with funding from the Institute of Museum and Library Services through the Connecticut State Library Plumb and the Huntington Branch libraries can chart a future for the coming years. The IMLS is an independent federal agency that grows and sustains a “Nation of Learners,” because lifelong learning is critical to success.

Following an open application process this fall Cupolo Consulting of Milford was selected to help direct the planning process. Beth Mainiero, principal, has been a librarian in Connecticut since the 70’s when she created the Popular Library for the public library in Bridgeport. Since then she has been director of both Hamden and Greenwich libraries. She began her career in Ohio and next served as a branch director in Maryland. All of this giving her insight into the running of public libraries of all sizes and purposes.

Beth’s planning consultancy started with Greenwich Library where it culminated in 5 building renovations and construction projects, including working with world renowned architect Cesar Pelli. She has contributed her skills in planning and managing building construction all over Connecticut and into Rhode Island. Most recently she assisted directors in Middlebury and Trumbull to bring community members together for planning their libraries’ futures.