FRANKLIN, Ind. – There’s a new Web site for Johnson County residents who would like to stay informed about the future of Johnson County Public Library’s Franklin Branch: MyFranklinLibrary.com.

The new site is a collaboration between J Owen Media LLC of Franklin, Ind.; Screaming Eagle Media of Columbus, Ind.; and Johnson County Public Library. It was designed to serve a different purpose than Johnson County Public Library’s main Web site, www.jcplin.org.

"We have two critical goals with this communication project: engaging the public and being transparent about the Franklin Branch project," said Jeff Owen of J Owen Media.

Beverly Martin, Director of Johnson County Public Library, added that the site was part of an ongoing effort to share all available information about the current Franklin Branch facility and about any potential building projects.

"The new site is our opportunity to reach out to as many people as possible," said Martin. "Not everyone will be able to attend our public board meetings or community focus groups. This is their chance to read all the studies and recommendations and to voice their questions and concerns."

The site will feature the latest news and upcoming events related to the future of the Franklin Branch. Visitors will be able to peruse information about the library’s history and usage statistics, answers to frequently asked questions, studies about the impact of public libraries on the communities they serve, and needs assessments from a variety of experts.

Visitors will also be able to get involved by submitting their opinions to the library staff and Board of Trustees and by signing up for e-mail updates.

"We want as much feedback as possible," said Owen.

A Twitter feed and a YouTube channel have also been created to complement the information available on the Web site. The YouTube channel will soon feature videos of patrons telling their unique stories about the role of the Franklin Branch in their lives.

"This Web site provides an important public service," said Owen. "There is so much information available about this project and the economic and social benefits of vibrant libraries. We are going to share all of the research and explain what's happening at every step of the process."

Johnson County Public Library was established in 1911 to provide all members of the community—regardless of age, background, or economic means—with equal access to educational and cultural resources. The library continues to serve the public by offering a diverse collection of print and digital materials and a dynamic schedule of programs. Enhancing the economic well-being and overall quality of life in Johnson County remain central to the library’s mission.

Jeff Owen launched J Owen Media LLC in 2009 to provide communication, marketing, and public relations consulting services for non-profits and small businesses. Owen has more than 30 years of management and media experience.

Screaming Eagle is a division of Home News Enterprises and provides a range of digital and print services. Information about Screaming Eagle is available at www.screamingeaglemedia.com.

For more information about MyFranklinLibrary.com and the future of the Franklin Branch, please contact JCPL’s Community Relations Department at (317) 738-2957 or J Owen Media at (317) 474-1321.

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