Ideas for a community library strategic plan?

lololu
Wed, 29 Aug 2018 22:14:14 +0000

Librarian here, who has done Strategic planning. Many of the things suggested here are not really things you need to worry about. It is the librarians job to collect demographic information (and most likely already has it) and to figure out the guidelines for developing the Strategic Plan. They may or may not be using the ALA plan linked above, there are several different guidelines out there, all of them valid, but again, not your worry. Most likely what you are being asked to do is to look at the Library at its role in the community through your own eyes. Are you a super patron, someone who is the library all the time? Do you never use the Library? Are you a Senior? Are you a teen? A young parent? A business leader? A good Strategic Plan sets out general map for the future of the library AND ITS ROLE IN YOUR COMMUNITY, but leaves the details to the staff, based on budget, etc… In other words, instead of saying “I would like The Economist”, in a strategic plan it is more helpful to hear that the business in your community are lacking good resources on national and global economic trends, things they need to know to grow their role in your community. And don’t worry about covering all the bases. You were asked to be on this committee because you bring a unique perspective. The last time we did community strategic planning the most valuable and outspoken member of our group was a 12 year old boy who was able communicate the needs of young teens in our community in a way that had not been addressed before. Be that person! Don’t worry about preparing questions and comments, you are already ready for that. Instead, go in to it with an open mind, be prepared to listen to the questions asked and give your honest responses based on your experience. It can be lot of fun!