Ridgefield Library has dramatically increased its 25,000 square feet, reaching into the town's 178,700,544 square feet and beyond—way, way beyond.

After about a year of intricate planning and testing, the library launched its new Web site on January 29.  The staff is excited about the new look and its far-reaching possibilities. 

"Our goal was to start 2010 with a new virtual branch of the library," Assistant Library Director Mary Rindfleisch said. "What we wanted to offer was an easy, accessible site that was clearly navigable," she said.

Surveying their patrons for the past year on their previous site and at the library, staffers learned what most interested their patrons, from ages two to 82. They used that information to decide to focus on creating an accessible and interactive data hub for information and events, including everything from storytime sign-ups to genealogy programs.

Other site features include the ability to text librarians reference questions, find out the library's latest Twitter post and a job finder portal. Web surfers can find out about upcoming new releases by their favorite authors and reserve a copy before it even arrives at the library. Through the site, users can also see program schedules, check account statuses and register for programs.

"There is so much more at the Library than most people know about, and we wanted to find a way to showcase our collections and programs as well as new technologies and online resources,"  Rindfleisch said.

"If there is anything you are looking for but can't find on the site, let us know," she added. "We want to make sure this remains an evolving and growing resource that really meets Ridgefield's needs."