The 228 Times has independently obtained the full results of the Mars Area Public Library community survey — prior to any official release — becoming the first news outlet to review responses from all four participating municipalities.
The survey, distributed separately to residents of Adams Township, Middlesex Township, and the boroughs of Mars and Valencia, drew more than 500 responses, with Adams residents accounting for the largest share.
While respondents across municipalities widely agreed that the current library building is too small to meet demand, they were sharply divided over two key questions: where a future facility should be located — and who should pay for it.
Adams Township: Support for Expansion, Resistance to Tax Increases
46% indicated that the library should remain in Mars or existing location, 30% indicated that they would like to see it moved to Adams Township or the park.
63% support building a new library.
Only 45% support a local tax increase to fund construction, while 55% oppose it.
“The Township is committed to the library partnership,” said Adams Township Manager Mike Tylka.
Many residents expressed enthusiasm for a modern facility but urged officials to pursue grants, shared municipal contributions, or private fundraising rather than higher taxes. Common improvement requests included expanded parking, larger program rooms, quiet study and tutoring areas, and technology upgrades.
Middlesex Township: Open to Relocation and Growth
Middlesex Township residents submitted 85 responses, with a majority supporting either expansion or relocation. Survey feedback cited space constraints — particularly in the children’s area — as the most pressing issue.
“Expanding the library was more important than the location,” said Middlesex Township Manager Jeffrey Winkle. “We understand there’s a need for growth of the library and if that necessitates the need to move to a new location, we’d support it.”
Mars Borough: Strong Attachment to Current Location
Mars Borough returned 73 responses. While many residents acknowledged the need for more space, a significant number expressed concern about moving the library out of the borough’s walkable downtown district.
“This Borough needs amenities like the library to remain within the Borough. Keep and grow the small-town feel, don’t remove it,” one respondent wrote.
Several respondents also questioned whether Adams and Middlesex should contribute more financially before relocation is considered.
Valencia Borough: Small Sample, Familiar Priorities
Valencia Borough recorded just 12 responses but echoed many of the same concerns: more books, more rooms, and more programming. However, opinions on relocation were mixed.
Library Director: Stakeholders Must Now Deliberate
Library Director Janae Callihan confirmed that patronage has doubled since 2018 and is projected to double again by 2030.
“We want to expand our collections and add more books, but we just don’t have the room right now,” Callihan said.
She noted that previous plans to move into the former NexTier Bank building fell through after a partner organization withdrew, prompting the board to return to the community for input.
“NexTier is not out of the question,” she said, adding that Adams Township has also offered land. “There’s a lot of different things that go into the cost of the library. Our board is not taking this decision lightly. We’re a public service and we have to serve the community.”
Callihan said next steps will involve the Library Board reviewing the data and speaking directly with municipal leaders.
“The stakeholders need to talk among themselves first,” she said.
What Happens Next?
The survey answers one question — the community wants a stronger, larger library. But it raises others:
– Will the Library Board release a timeline for its decision?
– Will all municipalities contribute proportionally to any expansion or relocation?
– If tax increases are off the table, how will the project be funded?
The 228 Times has requested further comment from local officials and will continue to report as conversations unfold.
