Library Trustees Approve Long-Range Plan

The Trustees were in a celebratory mood this week as they put their final approval on a long-range plan - a move that, among other things, is expected to make the facility eligible for more grant funds in 2013.

The comprehensive plan, which will focus on fiscal years 2013 through 2015, next goes for approval by the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners.

Making The Library A Destination: The first goal cited in the long range plan is to make the library more of a destination, with strategies that may range from new signage and enhanced grounds work to the creation of a new adult quiet and reading area (eyed for fiscal year 2014). Other goals include trying to increase the library's current parking capacity by five spaces by the end of FY2014, making the library more accessible to patrons with various disabilities, and expanding the current range of programs offered to children and adults.

Marketing, Funding and Technology: These are all high priorities in the library's long-range plan. The library plans to develop a marketing plan focusing on a more streamlined use of efforts and materials. A consultant could potentially be hired to develop this plan,  while other efforts in this area are likely to include an increased social media presence and an expanded website.

For fundraising, the library will also look at whether to establish a foundation, with a final decision and time frame expected by the end of FY2015.

The next several years will also see the library consider some new technological enhancements, such as online booking of museum passes from the library's website, to training the staff in specific electronic devices and technologies.

Another important part of the library's long-term mission is to find ways to work more closely with the town's school librarians and teachers, and to possibly even introduce a new section for school textbooks. The plan also envisions working more closely with the Lynnfield Historical Society and Historical Commission on things like the ongoing Digital Imaging Project as well as the general dissemination of local historical knowledge.

Finally, library officials are still in the early stages of assessing the community's needs in regard to the current building. By the end of FY2013, the plan calls for a Library Building Program that focuses on the institution's needs and current services. Around that time, the library will also hire an architect to begin implementing the building program.

For more on the library's long-range plans, check out and .