Library staff presented information at Monday’s City Council meeting regarding the Library’s updated Strategic Plan. Implementing the 2024-2029 plan is part of the City Council’s 2023-24 Goals/Strategies/Tactics as well as necessary to meet Texas public library accreditation requirements.
A survey and numerous focus group interviews were conducted over the past two years with area children and adults to gauge community desires/priorities for the Library; more than 30 action items are part of the new plan as a result, including:
- Install a drive-up book drop
- Expand maker space programming to all ages, as well as add additional maker equipment for various arts and technology
- Use technology to issue library cards offsite during community outreach efforts
- Acquire a branded outreach van to enhance outreach efforts such as mobile storytimes, library card drives and learning labs
Staff reported that the Library has received grant funding for the Outreach Van program from two organizations, Friends of the Library ($30,000) and Richardson Rotary ($5,000) and that the van is currently at the City’s Fleet Department being upfitted with shelving, storage and safety features. Anticipated start time for the program is sometime in April.
