A preliminary plan defining the future scope of library services and The Indianapolis Public Library’s role in the community will be unveiled at a special public meeting, “Yours to Experience,” on Jan. 28 from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. at Central Library, 40 E. St. Clair St.
The meeting will be the first opportunity for citizens to learn how the Library plans to align its services to address important community needs and to provide important feedback that can further refine the plan’s goals. For the past six months, citizen-led task forces and a Steering Committee representing the local business, education and civic communities have worked to develop recommendations for library services during the years 2015 – 2020.
In addition to establishing the Library’s core principles, such as promoting literacy, fostering community dialogue, embracing a diverse community, guiding digital learning and supporting intellectual freedom, the Strategic Plan would direct library services toward community goals in such areas as education, workforce readiness, business development and neighborhood development. Among other methods, the Library would achieve these goals by providing greater outreach of services, offering more diverse and relevant collections, developing greater community partnerships, and creating a network of services in accessible locations.
The new plan has also been based on research on changing demographics, patron usage and an assessment of current Library facilities. It provides flexibility in determining where facilities should be located, the types of services provided within branches, and opportunities to offer services in other community locations. The plan also would be defined by its financial sustainability and ability to generate adequate resources.
Following the Jan. 28 meeting, citizens will have additional opportunities to review the proposed plan. Library CEO Jackie Nytes will visit each Indy Library branch, beginning Jan. 29 and continuing through March 5, to explain the plan and speak individually with those who wish to provide comment. Following the public meetings will be final consideration and approval of the Strategic Plan by the Library Board of Trustees. Initial implementation will be reflected in the Library’s 2015 budget and operations plan.
To follow the progress of the Library’s Strategic Plan, visit indypl.org/strategicplan.
UPDATE – Tuesday January 28, 2013 12:02 p.m.
The Indianapolis Public Library has cancelled the public meeting scheduled for this evening due to weather. It will be rescheduled for a later date.
