John McGraw, director of Faulkner County Libraries, recently announced that a local consultant produced an informal report concerning the library’s growth management.

The county’s Conway location saw almost 288,000 visits last year in a building that has served the city since 1995. Marvin Lessmann, senior consultant with Maxco Group Inc. has presented a report confirming that the main library at 1900 Tyler St. is straining to accommodate Conway’s significant growth.

As a result of this initial study and subsequent discussions, the library is weighing the opportunities available, including the establishment of a branch library in the growth areas south and southwest of Conway. A review of funds and funding mechanism suggests that with proper planning and timing, the gap between what cities this size deserve and where we currently are could be narrowed without asking the taxpayers for anything.

To guide the process, a “Conway Library Panel” will be established to study and present various options to the Faulkner County Library Board and The Friends of the Faulkner County Libraries. Lessmann and McGraw are currently interviewing potential members to be considered for the Conway Library Panel. It is expected that members will come from a wide range of Conway citizens including educators, developers, community leaders and other interested parties.

Those interested may contact John McGraw at 501.327.7482 or [email protected].