Today, our library is known as the Best Children’s Library in Nassau County, and other libraries in the Nassau Library System actively seek out our input. However, it was not always like this. This change began with the arrival of our library director, Denise Corcoran.
When I joined the Great Neck Library Board of Trustees in 2019, I presented a proposal for changes to the programming and the STEM Lab. These changes were nearly impossible to implement until Denise arrived in 2021. Our library now offers the improvements I proposed and more.
In addition to new programs, our library has added “the Library of Things,” “a seed library,” Levels Junior programs, museum passes, expanded its core collection to include books in many languages, and offers enhanced technology services.
In fact, the library offers “Geek Squad” support for technology issues via the STEM Lab, which are regularly used by our adult patrons. Our Parkville and Station branches even have their own STEM labs.
The enhanced technology services include remote printing, a library phone application, a new website, and many e-book and streaming services, including Audible, Kanopy, and Hoopla.
There are many other e-services available if one explores the library website. The new programs include regular yoga classes, defensive driving, adult jewelry making, adult painting, programming courses for children, and the list could go on.
Many years ago, I heard from people who regularly used our library that they would go elsewhere. They spent countless hours at other libraries, including Middle Country, Manhasset, and Port Washington, and were convinced that our library would never improve. They said it was useless.
Well, today, I can say that the same people come to our library on a regular basis. Our library is far from finished, but we have come a long way.
In addition to the changes listed above, Denise and Adam Hinze, the library’s programs director, have helped rebuild partnerships with the Great Neck Public Schools (GNPS), offering countless programs.
The elementary remote programming offered during COVID provided a way for elementary children, whose parents chose to keep them home during the pandemic, to socialize. Other partnerships were built with GNPS Special Education Group, various school PTOs, the UPTC, and organizations, including North Shore Hebrew Academy, Great Neck Chinese Association, Shai, and Gold Coast Arts.
In addition to the above, the library has completed renovations to our Lakeville and Station branches and should complete Parkville this year.
However, there is more to be done, including repairing the stairs at Main, expanding the STEM Lab, and landscaping the main library’s exterior.
We are almost there, and under the stewardship of Denise, we have made a bold leap forward. I believe that someday the Great Neck Library will be one of the best in the state. I hope to be re-elected this Monday so I can help make this happen.
Scott Sontag
Great Neck Library Trustee (2019 – current)
I ask you to re-elect Scott Sontag to the board of trustees on Monday, Oct. 30