One of the best elements of a strategic plan that will allow a library to survive and even thrive in tough times is a thoughtful and encompassing mission statement. Obviously, the Evanston (IL) Public Library founders understood the mission of their library, and it has stood the test of time for over 100 years.
At EPL’s August 31, 2011 Board meeting the draft 2011-14 Strategic Plan was presented. It begins with the following.
“….. promote the development of independent, self-confident, and literate citizens through the provision of open access to cultural, intellectual, and informational resources.”
This is the mission of the Evanston Public Library (EPL) which was established by the citizens of Evanston, without dissent, on April 15, 1873. The 2011 Board of Trustees strives to honor the deep and textured heritage of our City and its Library. The Trustees are committed to the belief that as the community needs continually develop and change, the library’s capacity to service those needs respectfully and efficiently adapts and progresses.
It is hard to imagine a library mission statement that can be both 140 years old, and yet has enough flexibility and comprehension to include the many societal factors that have influenced public libraries for over a century – and is still relevant today. Is this mission still appropriate for a 21st Century Library? That is a decision that the Library, Library Board and community must make. What is clear is that the 2011-14 Strategic Plan employs the 21st Century techniques necessary.
As identified by Evanstonians through a deliberate planning process, this Plan provides direction to achieve goals of library services that reach out to each family, neighborhood, and constituency. As is evident in the methodical and comprehensive grassroots process, it is the clarity of the community voice and shared vision that illuminates this Plan and shines a light on our path ahead.
On Page 1, reference is made to the SWOT analysis EPL conducted;
This process included representatives from the Library Board, staff and the community at large. The group selected the eight focus groups to be interviewed and worked together on an online survey that was answered by approximately 900 individuals. Staff and board discussed the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats that face the library. Also, our consultant had conversations with eleven community members who wished to express their views. This plan was based on the input of these various groups.
Evanston Public Library appears to have achieved a good meld for their community between the old and the new. A strategic plan that works for your library and community is a good plan.
