The first week of collecting the survey results for the library survey in Rockport is complete, and as of Friday, September 22, Portland Research Group reports that we have received 459 surveys back in the mail or on-line.

This is a respectable 15.1 percent of the 3,040 mailed out. For the research firm, this is adequate to get statistically sound data. But to me, it means that 85% of the population has not replied yet.

We can do better than that! We need to hear from you. Your voice matters!

If you want to help answer this question, once and for all, please tell us what you think. Fill out the survey. It only takes a few minutes to complete. No matter how you feel about the Library question, your voice matters to the Select Board, as they begin to decide on the next steps they are going to take. They want to hear from you, no matter where the results lead. The easiest way to take the survey, is to do it online at www.rockportlibrarysurvey.com . The online survey is quick and saves the Town money, as we don’t have to pay the postage and handling fees for return mail envelopes. In addition, the data goes directly into the company’s database, rather than being entered by hand. Again, saving us money.

If you don’t have internet access or just prefer a hard copy, you can pick up a paper copy and return envelope at the Town Office or the Library and mail it in.

If you have already taken the survey, Thank you! You can still help by encouraging your friends and neighbors to participate. Help us get that response rate up to 50% or even higher. Your Voice Matters! “Tell Us What You Think”.

Rick Bates is Rockport’s town manager.