The State Library of Ohio strongly encourages all libraries to have a strategic plan. Strategic plans are helpful tools for libraries because they can focus the library's programs and services and help with decisions on allocating resources based on  community needs and how the library can meet those needs.

The State Library offers facilitator help at no charge to public libraries with their strategic planning process using the Public Library Association planning process, Strategic Planning for Results, developed by Sandra Nelson.

Library directors, boards, staff, and community members can be included in the planning process to link community needs and library services.  Selecting service responses that describe “what a library does for, or offers to, the public in an effort to meet a set of well-defined community needs” is part of the process along with establishing effective goals and objectives, managing change, informing the community, and planning for the future.

Please contact Ashlee Tominey, Library Development Consultant, at 614-644-6889 or atominey@library.ohio.gov if you are interested in working with the State Library on your strategic plan.