Dream Big, Build Forward

We’re Shaping the Technology Future at Patten Free Library

On Wednesday, October 22, 2025 we invited the library community to share their biggest ideas and wildest dreams to help us  shape the future of technology at Patten Free Library.  It was a night of possibility and inspiration in a set of conversation cafés.  Participants were asked two open ended questions, and one bonus question:

• Question One:
  What would you see if you were to visit Patten Free Library in ten years?  (What will you be doing at the library?  What will the teens be doing? The younger ones? Our elders?  How will they be doing it? What will library staff be doing? How will the technology affect the physical space, the resources, and the services the library provides?) 
• Question Two:
  What will be the role of the library beyond its four walls?  (How will you use the library from your  homes, offices, and  gathering places? What new services will the library bring to you? ) 
• Bonus Question:
  How can technology  be used to expand library reach? (How best to reach all community members, including those who may not use the library now? What challenges will the library face when providing universal access and expanded services?  What partnerships and local resources will the library make use of? )

The ideas generated at this community visioning session will help us anticipate the role of the library over the next decade of rapid technological evolution. As we develop a strategic plan for technology we want to hear from you!  If you couldn’t be there in person, send us your biggest ideas and wildest dreams here:

Dream Big, Build Forward