ABOUT THE LIBRARY
IMCPL Begins Strategic Planning Process to Determine Community's Future Needs
March 3, 2008
A broad representation of individuals from the local education, non-profit, government and private sectors has begun the process of defining the scope of Indianapolis-Marion County Public Library services for the next five years.
The 25 members of the Library's Strategic Planning Committee, led by former Purdue University President Martin Jischke and Patty Jischke, will identify the needs of local citizens and determine how IMCPL can address them. A key part of the plan will describe how to allocate resources according to community priorities.
Although IMCPL continues to experience record circulation (14.1 million items circulated in 2007) and near-record door count (over 5.3 million patron visits in 2007), a new strategic plan will allow the Library to assess the community's needs as a result of changing demographics and funding challenges. The plan will guide the Library in developing services and programs to meet the lifelong learning needs of citizens, which is at the heart of the Library's mission.
Important issues for the Library to address through its programs and services include early childhood literacy, local economic development, and the role of the Library in today's information age.
The open strategic planning process will encourage community input through the use of focus groups and solicitation of public comment. Embraced by the community and implemented by Library staff, the strategic plan will include measurable progress goals that can be adjusted according to changing needs.
"I'm very optimistic, based on the attitude of the Library Board of Trustees, staff and leadership of the Library, that this plan will make a difference in creating a better Library for Indianapolis," said Martin Jischke.
The Strategic Planning Committee will meet regularly in order to produce a recommended plan by July 1. The plan would then go before the Library Board for adoption.
IMCPL implemented its last strategic plan in 1996, which led to the construction of six new library branches that replaced older, smaller branches, and the renovation and expansion of Central Library downtown, which opened on Sunday, December 9, 2007.
Individuals wishing to offer comments or suggestions on the future delivery of Library services may do so through the IMCPL website.
