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Valemount Public Library

Encouraging a spirit of learning and discovery

  • Mon Closed
  • Tue 11am – 5pm
  • Wed 11am – 9pm
  • Thu
  • Fri 11am – 5pm
  • Sat 11am – 3pm
  • Sun Closed

Library Strategic Plan

Valemount Public Library

Strategic Plan

2021-2024

“Encouraging a spirit of learning and discovery”

Introduction

This strategic plan is a living document, and our intent is to adapt it as needed and outlines a plan to provide the best library service possible.

We look forward to achieving these goals for the benefit of library patrons and all the residents in the community of Valemount and surrounding area as well as for visitors to our community.

Goal one: To strengthen library services

Objective: To improve service to patrons

Great service is key to making the library more welcoming.

  1. Seek out and provide training opportunities for staff and board members to improve knowledge and quality of service provided to patrons.

 

  1. Review library policies, updating and creating new policies when needed.

 

  1. Offer patrons internet-based support and test proctoring services.

 

  1. Introduce new and innovative programs and workshops.

 

  1. Encourage patrons’ input regarding library programs, collections, and other services.

 

Objective: Ensure the library collections are current and relevant

Good collection management is necessary in making sure the library is serving the needs of the community.

  1. Develop collections that are current and popular by updating materials and adding new formats.

 

  1. Identify collection gaps, respond to patron requests, and build material collections accordingly.

 

  1. Remove outdated and worn materials to ensure vibrant, robust collections.

 

  1. Participate in Interlibrary Loan and Interlibrary Connect programs which enable access to materials from other BC libraries and promote the sharing of our book, audio, and DVD collections.

 

Objective: Enhance technology-based services

Access to information through technology is an important part of library service. Staying current is a challenge but essential to meeting patron needs.

  1. Upgrade public access computer stations when needed to continue to provide patrons with a high-quality experience. Provide laptop-friendly seating and reliable Wi-Fi access.

 

  1. Make new technology available for patron use (photo scanner, digital projector, virtual reality sets, thermal imaging camera, etc.).

 

  1. Offer Legal Skype Sessions and other online library workshops and programs.

 

  1. Provide access to online resources and electronic materials for educational and recreational purposes (Ancestry, Gale courses, BC codes, eBooks, etc.)

Goal Two: Improve partnerships

Objective: Strengthen existing partnerships and create new partnerships to enhance literacy in the community

Collaboration with other organizations and libraries allows us to offer higher quality programs and increases our ability to raise literacy awareness.

  1. Maintain supportive and cooperative relationships with Columbia Basin Alliance for Literacy (CBAL), Valemount Learning Centre (VLC), Robson Valley Community Services (RVCS) and Valemount Historic Society. Where appropriate join boards and attend meetings that impact and enhance literacy services in the community.

 

  1. Build strong positive relationships with local government representatives; Village of Valemount, Regional District of Fraser-Fort George (RDFFG).

 

  1. Partner with local and regional organizations to provide literacy-related programs and activities.

 

  1. Participate and co-ordinate with the North Central Library Federation (NCLF) to coordinate programs, share ideas and resources, and make group purchases of materials that support library services.

 

Goal three: Increase awareness of the library services and its value.

Objective: Promote library use and increase awareness of its resources

  1. Post library events, programs, and new arrivals on the library’s website and through social and local media.

 

  1. Hold special events to showcase the library’s resources and attract new users.

 

  1. Offer space to local non-profit organizations for their programs and meetings.

 

  1. Set up displays of literacy materials at local events to raise awareness of the library and its resources.

 

  1. Participate in the Valemountain Days parade and other community events.
  2. Maintain and stock the Little Free Library (located by the grocery store).

 

  1. Provide Books for Babies materials to the Valemount Health Centre for distribution to new parents.

 

Objective: Celebrate Valemount Public Library’s milestones

Celebration and fun are important tools for promoting the library and recognizing the staff and board members both past and present.

  1. Organize events to showcase new collections and library renovations or improvements that enhance service for patrons.

 

  1. Recognize library staff, volunteers, and board members by hosting events such as a yearly Christmas dinner to create goodwill and team building and to celebrate the library’s achievements.

 

  1. Celebrate library anniversaries and other milestones with open houses or other events.