What is a strategic plan?
A strategic plan is a document that sets the goals that a library, network, or other organization wants to focus on during a multi-year timeframe, usually 3 to 5 years. It is intended to help the institution move towards meeting its overall mission and vision. The MBLC recommends that every library maintain an up-to-date strategic plan as a management best practice.
Grant eligibility
In order to be eligible for construction grants from the MBLC, libraries need to have a current, approved strategic plan on file. It is not a requirement for LSTA grants, state aid or other programs offered by the agency.
Multiple independent libraries
Multiple independent libraries have two options when submitting a plan. A plan can be submitted on behalf of all the libraries within the municipality. If that route is taken, all the libraries should be involved in the planning process. A plan can also be submitted by each library.
Libraries within larger organizations
Libraries may submit the organization's strategic plan for consideration (for example, a university's strategic plan, a district-wide school plan, a municipality's master plan, etc.). That plan must contain a sufficient section on the library. The Head of Library Advisory and Development will determine if the plan is acceptable in meeting that standard or if the library would need to submit its own strategic plan.
If the larger organization's plan meets the strategic plan requirement, action plans submitted by the library should focus solely on the goals that relate to the library.