NEW ROCHELLE, NY (February 10, 2026) — The New Rochelle Public Library will conduct a User Experience Study from February 22 through February 25, 2026, as part of Phase I of its Library Master Plan.
The study is being carried out in partnership with ThirdWay Space, a national research and planning firm that collaborates with libraries to improve how spaces and services meet community needs.
ThirdWay Space has worked with a variety of public and academic libraries across the United States. Its clients include the Decorah Public Library in Iowa, for which it produced a detailed Space Audit in 2023; the North Canton Public Library in Ohio, involving GoPro-based patron research and retail analytics for renovation planning; the Park Ridge Public Library in Illinois, where consultant David Vinjamuri provided strategic space reimagination; the Garden City Public Library in New York, which engaged the firm for marketplace tests and analytics; as well as the Elk Grove Public Library in Illinois, Oshkosh Public Library in Wisconsin, Manhattan Elwood Public Library in Illinois, Peninsula Public Library, and Albuquerque Academy in New Mexico, among others referenced in library records and project documents. The firm, led by David Vinjamuri, focuses on patron observation, space audits, and improvements to make library environments more welcoming, accessible, and functional.
Researchers will focus on how patrons navigate and use the New Rochelle Main Library, aiming to make the facility more welcoming, accessible and intuitive. They will observe movement through the building, interactions with collections, signage and service points to identify strengths and areas for improvement.
“This work is about seeing the library through our community’s eyes,” said Eugenia Schatoff, Executive Director of the New Rochelle Public Library. “By closely examining how people experience our spaces, we can make thoughtful, practical changes that improve comfort, accessibility, and ease of use—both now and as we plan for the future.”
During the four-day study, ThirdWay Space researchers will conduct guided walk-through interviews with community members inside the Main Library. Participants will perform routine library tasks while describing their experiences in real time and will wear GoPro cameras to record first-person perspectives of interactions with the space.
The study seeks to capture a broad range of experiences, including those of people who do not currently use the library or visit infrequently, individuals with mobility or vision challenges, and caregivers moving through the space with children.
Findings will guide short-term changes such as displays, signage and furniture placement, as well as longer-term renovation strategies.
“Libraries are constantly evolving, and this study helps ensure we’re evolving in ways that truly serve our community,” Schatoff added. “It’s an important step in making sure our library remains a place where everyone feels welcome and supported.”
The library will share updates on the Library Master Plan and forthcoming improvements with the community throughout the year.
This article was drafted with the aid of Grok, an AI tool by xAI, under the direction and editing of Robert Cox to ensure accuracy and adherence to journalistic standards.