The needs assessment process provides an examination of whether facility improvements are necessary, examining both limitations of the existing facility as well as improvements that may be necessary to support new or expanded services, collections, and programs the library plans to implement.

Limitations of the existing facility may include collection shelving, space for children's programming, inadequate public study seating, poor lighting, accessibility, parking, staff work space, or a host of other issues. New or improved services might include computer and technology applications, young adult services, business resource center, outreach programs, or a children's storytelling room.

The needs assessment is developed through conversations with the trustees, staff and members of the Friends and Foundation.

On September 1, 2005, the Cedar Rapids Public Library Board of Trustees chose George Lawson, a nationally recognized Library consultant, to do a Needs Assessment for the Main library and a Needs Assessment/Service Delivery Evaluation for the West Branch.These surveys were funded with the enthusiastic support of the Friends of the Cedar Rapids Public Library. These evaluations were presented to the expanded Library Building Committee, which included participants from the Library Board and Staff, the Friends of the Cedar Rapids Public Library and The Cedar Rapids Public Library Foundation

Executive Summary from the Downtown Effectiveness Study Executive Summary from the West Effectiveness Study Executive Summary from the Space Needs Assessment Imperatives for Change - Cedar Rapids Public Library Map of Future Cedar Rapids Growth

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1. In the latest community survey, the downtown library was listed as the #1 reason people come to downtown Cedar Rapids.
2. 576,797 people visited the libraries in 2005
3. 1,086,882 items were checked out of the libraries in 2005
4. Parking is a continuing concern.
5. Our Library is over 20 years old.
6. The "bones", the structure of our building is solid. The superficial is worn from heavy use.
7. As our population grows and changes, it is necessary to review all services and materials to determine how we can best serve patrons.
8. We wish to better serve those needing quick and easy access to our services.
9. We need to become ADA compliant.
10. Current lighting is ineffective and expensive.
11. Continued interest in technology by patrons requires us to increase our computer and internet services.

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