The Plainsboro Public Library will expand collections and activities for youth while exploring partnerships with the WW-P school district and local businesses. These goals are part of the library’s long-term goal of becoming a sustainable community center for learning, according to the recently released 2015-2018 Strategic Plan.
Goals for the next three years include increasing the number of visitors to 320,000 per year (from about 292,000 in 2014) and number of card-holders to 18,000 (from about 15,000 in 2014); reduce number of volumes owned and repurpose space for new use; and add new quiet study and group study rooms.
The library celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2014, transforming in those 50 years from a 500-book library in a converted schoolhouse to a 43,000-square-foot library with 150,000 volumes. Last year the library sought Library Development Solutions of Princeton, run by Princeton Public Library director Leslie Berger, to work on a strategic plan. The plan includes feedback from 1,114 survey responses and focus groups with library staff, residents, and the board of trustees.
“Today’s libraries are places where the community connects with one another and with the world,” writes Board of Trustees President Deborah L. Brett. “Community members are increasingly looking to the library not only for books, but also for digital content, educational and recreational resources, and physical spaces that support both community involvement and independent pursuits.”
The new mission statement of the library is to “inspire life-long learning, create understanding, and make our community a better place.”
There have already been changes made to library space, including new flooring on the main floor, new displays of best sellers, and furniture reconditioning in the heavily used children’s room. With more anticipated digital content, the library will reduce print collections and use the space for community gatherings.
Services will be expanded for all ages. For programming and staff dedicated to youth, the library found a need for space for homework help, gaming, and social activities.
There is also an expected increase in baby boomer senior citizens who will age in place. Survey responses and library staff note a growing demand for assistance and instruction in all technologies. The library aims to provide for those using technology to seek information, content, and connections.
Another short term goal is to explore revenue streams for future support, with the Plainsboro Public Library Foundation listed as having an important role in securing resources.
The library will conduct an annual community needs survey to measure satisfaction and will issue an annual report. The strategic plan will also be reviewed each year.
