The Library Board of Trustees approved a new four-year strategic plan in June of 2023, which was subsequently approved by the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners (MBLC).
Why does the Ipswich Public Library need a strategic plan?
To be eligible to apply for any direct grants from the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners under the federal Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) program or any state-funded grants, such as construction, our library must complete a strategic plan and file it with the MBLC. However, beyond meeting eligibility requirements for certain MBLC grant programs, strategic planning is an effective management tool for all types of organizations. A plan reflects the vision of what the library is and where it needs to go, and serves as a blueprint for the organization’s growth.
Our Long Range Plan is the result of a months-long process. It strives to bring focus to the library’s services over the next four years. While not inclusive of everything we do on a daily basis, this plan attempts to identify specific areas where the community has expressed a desire for us to strengthen and grow, while still maintaining all other services under our mission. It will guide the Library staff as they make library service and program decisions, and will guide the Trustees and Director as they allocate resources to achieve the most effective library services possible.
Ipswich Public Library Strategic Plan FY 2024-FY 2028