Strategic Plan

 

 Windsor Public Library 3 year Strategic Plan

Adopted March 25, 2019

 

Mission Statement

The Windsor Public Library encourages all community members to pursue knowledge, enrichment, and enjoyment through shared reading materials, digital resources, programs and events.

 

Introduction

This three year operational plan continues where the previous plan left off and in many ways is a continuation of the goals we determined in 2015 during our planning retreat.  Many of the goals already outlined in the existing plan from 2015 will continue to exist.  These goals are in broad areas and are ongoing, while striving to reach several smaller objectives within each goal.  It would be helpful to review this plan on a regular basis, as was our intention for the 2015 plan, to see how well we are meeting our goals.

Working toward the Library’s future, we must always remember the past.  The first long range plan, in 1990, labeled “The Spirit of Learning” addressed the short-comings of the Library building and strove to work on improving Library service.  The 1996 plan “A plan for the future”, guided the Library into the next millennium.  The 2001 plan pushed the Library into the Internet age.   The 2010 plan continued the technology trend, leading us into an automated cataloging system, replacing cassettes with CD’s, and VHS movies with DVD’s.  Most recently we expanded our technology offerings even further by offering public Wi-Fi throughout the building and updating our computers to include the latest software advancements.  The 2015 plan entered us into the start of expansion and construction.  Independent Library Consultant Carrie Cleary led a brainstorming retreat where the Board reviewed and updated the Mission Statement and analyzed the plan and its goals.

We hope that this plan continues to address many of the Windsor Public Library's strengths as well as its weaknesses. We hope to use it as an analysis tool, and as a way for the Board to keep track of the way our Library operates and be able to make suggestions for future advancements.  As we strive to continually improve Library services, we hope that the plan may provide the focus and the tools necessary to evaluate and grow our collection, programs, and other services. 

 

Background

Library History (taken from the 2010 plan)

In the fall of 1882, Charles C. Beaman, Esq., and a group of Windsor gentlemen decided to open a public Library in town. Funds, which were raised by subscription and matched by Beaman and Hon. William M. Evarts, went toward the purchase of about 1,500 new books. Added to this total were approximately 1,100 volumes of United States public documents and 600 miscellaneous books.

"The proprietorship of the Library was vested in a corporation, organized for the purpose, under the General Statutes, and certificates of shares were issued to the subscribers at the rate of five dollars a share". [1]  Thus, the Windsor Library Association was formed. 

In order to further benefit Windsor residents, a proposal was made to the Town of Windsor at Town Meeting in March, 1883 " ... that upon condition of a suitable appropriation the Library should be free to all citizens of Windsor for a year."[2]  The town voted a $300 appropriation to the Windsor Library

Association and, on June 23rd of that year, the Windsor Public Library opened with 3,223 volumes. 

The Windsor Public Library's first home was in the basement of the Town Hall, now the American Legion Hall. In 1897/8 the books were moved to the Col. Harlow house, next door to the site of the current Library, which had been bequeathed to the Association. The present building was erected in 1903 by Benjamin F. Blood of Waltham, Massachusetts, formerly of Windsor. Blood was also responsible for the libraries in West Windsor and Reading. The Windsor Public Library opened the doors to its present building on April 30, 1904. 

The Community (adapted from the 2015 plan)

The Windsor Public Library serves a community of over 3,500 Windsor Vermont residents.  In addition, we are open and available to all members of the community who live outside of Windsor, including approximately 1,100 West Windsor residents, as well as residents from the towns of Ascutney and Hartland in Vermont and Cornish and Plainfield in New Hampshire.  In 2015 we opened up our collection even further by offering the One Card Program, allowing residents of Hartland, Norwich, Quechee, Weathersfield and several other Vermont towns to check out Library books with their own home Library card.

 

According to the 2000 & 2010 census information, Windsor's population has remained quite stable.  Recently, Cedar Hill Nursing Home has completed an extensive and expansive renovation.  This is just one of the locations that serves our increasing elderly population.  The Historic Homes of Runnemede provide private senior housing in several different configurations.  Other elderly housing situated near the Library includes the Gilbert Davis Home next door, and Old Windsor Village.  Clearly, this population in Windsor and the surrounding areas deserves careful consideration in current and future Library plans.  While handicapped access to the Library's main floor has been accomplished, it is clear that accessibility of the entire facility for every user should be our focus.

  

The businesses in Windsor continue to thrive and be an important segment of the Windsor community.  The Windsor Industrial Park is a hub for many active businesses and our downtown streets are lined with a variety of offerings for everyone who resides in or visits our town.  Windsor is also home to several historic sites and museums.  We look forward to developing partnerships with these businesses as well as sharing our resources with them so they can continue to play an active role in the community.

 

For our younger community members, Ascutney Mountain School District offers educational opportunities in one preK-12 facility. The modern facility has attracted new business as well as home buyers to town and ultimately has had a positive effect on Windsor's economy.  In addition to the pre-K population at the School District, several independent preschools and daycares are located around town to serve the educational and care needs of our littlest patrons.

 

The Library Today

The Windsor Public Library building remains nearly unaltered since its construction in 1904. Recent construction has opened us up to a new meeting room, complete with videoconferencing equipment, a new historical archives room and a new furnace, with plans to update the room it is housed in.  Other repairs need to be factored in a bit more regularly, as the building and its infrastructure age.

 

While the building remains steadfast, the services the Library has to offer and its collections have changed drastically over the last 111 years. The Library has evolved from an old-fashioned reading room into an active community center. Programs, such as book discussion series, language and genealogy classes, and story hours, are offered in the Library.  Larger programs, including author talks and guest speakers, are held both inside the Library as well as in other outside facilities such as the Windsor Welcome Center, Old South Church, and the Snapdragon Inn.  Nature walks and other outdoor learning opportunities are held in and around our town streets, as well as in our town forest, Paradise Park.  We are fortunate to have so many amazing places to share our offerings – some of which are a first for Vermont – including the first yo-yo club in the state and the first transgender identity program offering (and one of only a handful of libraries in the country to offer a program on the topic).  Our programs and events are varied according to current topics of interest to our patrons, whether discussed in the news or around town – such as our Eclipse viewing party.  These programs attract young and old alike from our community, and local news coverage has expanded interest for our programs to people from surrounding communities and beyond.  For those who can’t visit us, book delivery services are offered outside the Library at local elder care facilities as well as to the homebound.  And Windsor On Air, Windsor’s local TV station, covers several of our programs for people to watch from the comfort of their own homes.

 

From its original 3,223 items, the collection of items housed in the Library has grown to over 22,000. In addition, the Library offers its patrons audio books on CD, visual materials on DVD, periodicals, and newspapers. In 2013, the Library initiated the first seed Library in Vermont and in 2015 we increased the offerings of our local museum passes.  Music CD’s, cassettes, and VHS materials have been removed from the collection as newer technologies become available.  Other past offerings have included hiking packs, and preschool learning packs, and we are also searching for new ideas for collection offerings that meet our patrons’ needs.  The Library computer use has grown substantially and the number of computers in the Library for public use has tripled.  Open Wi-Fi is also available 24 hours a day. A number of online databases (research, biography, genealogy, and downloadable audio books) supplement what the collection has to offer and these resources can be accessed in house or remotely from our website. The children’s room has toys, games and puppets for in-house use.

 

The Town of Windsor continues to support the Library with funds allocated annually at Town Meeting as it has since the Library’s inception in 1882.  The remainder of the funds needed to operate the Library must be raised through private donations and fundraisers.

The Friends of the Windsor Library, an associated non-profit, is a group of volunteers who organize and administer special fundraising events in support of special projects and purchases for the Library.  These events include the annual book sale to the public, author visits, and dramatized readings.

A staff of one full-time employee, two part-time employees, and a custodian, as well as about 30 volunteers keep the Library open and running throughout the year.  We recently expanded our hours so that we are now open longer hours on Tuesdays and Thursdays.  Our only closed day is Sunday.

 

 

Facts Review

 

Hours open increased from 35 in 2008 to 45 in 2018.  8 open hours were added in 2014 with the addition of Tuesdays and Thursdays, and 2 more in 2018, as we further increased our Tuesday/Thursday hours and slightly decreased our Friday hours.

Total staff paid hours:  64 in 2008 to 79 in 2018.  We added a 2nd Library Assistant in 2010.   In 2014, the Library Director position was made full-time.  In 2016, we eliminated the 2nd Library Assistant and increased hours of both the Youth Services Librarian and the Library Assistant.

 

 The Collection includes:

 

            Books, including Large print books, Board books, braille books

            Audiobooks on CD

            Downloadable e-books and audiobooks from our website

            DVDs

            Periodicals/ Newspapers

Seeds

Museum Passes

Various special collections, which have included hiking backpacks, yo-yos, microscope

Wandering Wilbur

 

The Roles of the Windsor Public Library

 

For this three year plan, the three major roles for the Library remain unchanged.  These roles have been considered throughout the planning process and the goals and objectives in this document directly relate to these roles.  Our three top service priorities are as follows:

 

Satisfy Curiosity:  Lifelong Learning:  Throughout their lives, residents will have the resources needed to explore topics of personal interest and issues of critical importance to them.

 

Learning from cradle to grave involves not only formal learning, but also informal, non-structured learning.  As such, the Library has many opportunities for personalized learning.  The Library encourages self-directed personal growth and development opportunities for all ages via materials, programs and services.  Even though non-fiction is not circulated as readily as fiction, the classification categories that received the highest usage in 2014 were the 500’s (Natural Sciences and Mathematics), 900’s, (History and Geography) and 300’s (Social Sciences including Politics, Economics, Law, and Education).

 

Lifelong Learning also includes our youngest patrons.  Studies show that children who are read to at an early age have improved language and cognitive development.  The Library provides a location for parents to read to their children as well as for librarian-led storytimes.

 

 

Understand How to Find and Evaluate and Use Information:  Information Fluency: Residents will know when they need information to resolve an issue or answer a question and will have the skills to search for, locate, evaluate, and effectively use information to meet their needs.  Our trained staff will help users develop the skills necessary to find and evaluate information, including instructional programs, reference services, and user-friendly technology initiatives.

 

 

Stimulate Imagination: More people use the Library’s collections, programs, and services to find adventure, visit faraway and/or fantastical places, experience different cultures, and generally escape.  Residents who want materials to enhance their leisure time will be able to obtain the Library resources they want and need in a timely manner and will have the help they need to make choices from among the options.

 

 

Goals & Objectives

Satisfy Curiosity:  Lifelong Learning

Goal 1: The Windsor Public Library will support and expand patron access to electronic information sources and networks. 

Objective 1: Acquire and implement the use of time and print management software on patron computers that displays Library computer user agreement before every session, enforces time limits, and creates a user interface for ease of printing and fund collection for printing.  Software has been researched.

Objective 2: Evaluate current information databases to ensure each is offering a high level of current information and seek out appropriate databases where needed.  Ensure that databases are accessible and easy to use by patrons, both in the Library and remotely.  Advertise the databases so more patrons become aware of what we have to offer.

Objective 3: Continue to utilize the most current technologies to inform and interact with patrons: including website, blogging, social networking sites, social bookmarking tools, RSS.  Incorporate instant messaging for reference questions, social bookmarking tools, and RSS.

Objective 4:  Implement a plan for replacing outdated computers with more recent technology.

 

Goal 2: The Historical Collections of the Windsor Public Library will be made more accessible to the public and will be preserved for use by future generations. 

Objective 1: Add digitized portions of collection onto website and encourage its use.

Objective 2: Create a historical collection policy for the Library that would assist in acquisitions and deaccessioning of materials.

Objective 3: Complete inventory of books in historical collection.  Store inventory of the yearbooks

    and newspapers in an accessible location.

 

Objective 4: Develop a partnership with the Historical Society to provide research appointments at the Library upon request.

Objective 5: Create a historical collection policy.

Objective 6: Digitize and provide access to pieces of the local history collections not yet done, including Windsor Chronicle

Objective 7: Evaluate current storage conditions for fragile items within the constraints of the present building. Seek assistance from outside organizations for acquiring appropriate storage containers.

 

Goal 3: The Windsor Public Library will expand opportunities for patrons to enjoy literature and cultural experiences while addressing their intellectual curiosity and knowledge through adult, young adult and juvenile programs. 

 

Objective 1: Continue to develop public awareness of Library events with the goal of increasing attendance at Library events.  This includes receiving out-of-town visitors.

Objective 2: Conduct survey of community members to determine programming interests. Ensure that our patrons feel connected to the community through program involvement & awareness of resources and offer a variety of programs to cover a wide variety of interests and experiences.

Objective 3: Continue work with community groups to develop joint programs held at the Library.

Objective 4:  Continue to find ways to increase participation in Summer Reading program.

Goal 4:  The Windsor Public Library will continue to develop public awareness of Library events and services.

Objective 1: Continue regular contact with local media via press releases covering events and changes in the Library.

Objective 2: Update website on a regular basis commensurate with public needs and expectations. 

Objective 3: Use technology to promote WPL as a vital resource for reading, listening, and viewing materials as well as programs and other related activities.  Continue to use Facebook and explore other social media and smartphone apps to keep current with user’s technology needs.

Objective 4: Dedicate time to consistently sending the e-newsletter on a regular basis and encourage patrons to sign up to receive news and updates. 

Objective 5: Incorporate better ways to promote our e-resources.

Objective 6:  Develop metrics to evaluate program success,

Goal 5:   Patrons of all ages, races, ethnicities, genders, sexual orientations, belief systems, personal histories, and physical and mental abilities will enjoy Library materials, programs, and technological resources they need to achieve personal growth and intellectual stimulation.   

 

Objective 1: Continue review of our materials to be sure we update materials for those who have impaired vision, a physical inability to handle books, or an organic inability to read, among others.  Have materials on hand for ABLE Library services.

Objective 2: Develop partnerships with other agencies serving seniors (community organizations, businesses, civic groups) and become a part of a support network for this group, offering programs and materials geared toward their learning and entertainment. 

Objective 3: Continue to review each section of our non-fiction shelves to ensure a well-balanced collection.  Focus on weeding and updating non-fiction sections not yet worked on since last strategic plan.

Understand How to Find and Evaluate and Use Information:  Information Fluency

 

Goal 6: The Windsor Public Library will increase patrons’ (children, teens, adults, and seniors) ability to efficiently find and use accurate, up-to-date information, and will be comfortable using various information resources and materials.

Objective 1:  Update the volunteer manual.  Provide regular trainings and updates for current and

 new volunteers.

 

Objective 2: Develop training programs that focus on each of the various databases the Library offers.  Implement classes, plans, and a Library of tutorials for the public on information fluency concepts, including a list of resources for current topics of interest, and strategies for searching.

Objective 3: Research topics best suited to meet the need of patrons desiring tech classes.  Offer group computer training courses on basic computer use, as well as courses focused on how to use the most popular software programs.  Continue to offer individual courses and tech days, as well as traveling tech to senior centers. 

Objective 4: Continue incorporating ALA celebrational and educational initiatives into our regular calendar, such as Money Smart Week, Digital Learning Day, and Preservation Week. 

 

 

Goal 7: The Windsor Public Library will work closely with the area schools and businesses in order to provide better service and educational support, and enhance partnerships. 

Objective 1: Create a small business resource webpage and encourage use of our materials by local businesses. Create informational handouts on the usage of applicable databases.

Objective 2: Increase Library participation in local business events. Enhance partnerships between

businesses and libraries.

 

Objective 3: Grow and promote collections and services for small businesses.

Objective 4:  Develop relationships with classroom teachers. Encourage teachers to take advantage of our collections and services. Partner with teachers to bring the Library to the classroom for book talks, and programs.

Stimulate Imagination

Goal 8: The Windsor Public Library will provide a timely, balanced and pleasing collection of materials for all ages. 

Objective 1: Continue to assess a complete inventory for each shelf section, matching the catalog

with the collection. 

Objective 2: Continue a thorough review and appropriate weeding to keep the Library current and well balanced. 

Objective 3: Research what other libraries are doing with their magazine collections.  Research ways to gauge usage of this collection. 

Objective 4: Audiobook collection will continue to expand, focusing on formats most utilized in the community.

Objective 5: Continue to assess trends in reading, listening, and viewing behavior as a means of maximizing materials budget.

Objective 6: Implement the use of shelf labels and signage to highlight sections of popular interest Continue implementation of rotating and end cap displays of shelved materials as a means of improving access to popular materials for walk-in patrons. 

Objective 7: Work on adding modest increases to the collections budget.

Facility, Fiscal Stewardship, and General Operating Goals

Goal 9: The Windsor Public Library will continue annual operational fundraising and will strengthen its Endowment and Building Funds in anticipation of future renovations or expansion.

Objective 1: Develop, print, and distribute materials outlining Library goals and giving programs such as Partners in Community, “In Memory” gifts, and Annual Fund Drive.

Objective 2: Continue to expand list of potential annual donors (individuals, corporations,

foundations, organizations) encouraging the support of Library operations.  This we have done and will continue.

 

Objective 3:  Establish personal donor contacts within corporations, foundations, and organizations, encouraging the support of library operations, and identifying potential support for larger capital projects.

 

Objective 4: Plan for more regular e-newsletter updates.

Objective 5   Evaluate yearly plan for fundraisers and change as necessary to benefit the Library.

Objective 6: Explore opportunities for joint fundraising and local partnership opportunities.

Objective 7:  Continue trying “outside of the box” solutions for recovering losses for past lost items. 

Objective 8:  Consider a development plan to possibly increase private support.

 

Goal 10: The Windsor Public Library will provide a safe, convenient, comfortable environment accessible to all patrons while protecting and preserving its historic integrity. 

Objective 1: Create an accessibility plan that addresses physical and financial requirements for building renovations, with the goal of meeting ADA requirements.

Objective 2: Update emergency/disaster plan from 2003 and emergency evacuation plan.  Review

     both plans with staff on a regular basis so that staff is always aware of what to do “in

     case…” 

 

Objective 3:  Continue to review first aid kit contents and check AED supplies on a yearly basis.   

Objective 4:  Review Library aesthetics including signage, way-finding, shelf labeling, and access to service.

Objective 5: New residents will be warmly welcomed in the Library.  Evaluate our brochures geared

toward new members which detail Library offerings.  Create more opportunities for touring the Library for both individuals and Corporations. 

 

Objective 6:  Create a building maintenance plan that spreads improvements over time, and is taken

                      to account in the annual budgeting process.

 

Objective 7:  Reducing the library's environmental footprint, striving to be as energy efficient as

                      possible in all ways, including taking into account any and all future

                      renovations/additions.  Develop a plan for recycling and for composting.

 

Goal 11: The Windsor Public Library will operate in an efficient manner. 

Objective 1: Continue to expand recruitment program for volunteers. Find new ways to ensure that town residents are informed about volunteer opportunities.

Objective 2: Undertake a thorough review of existing job descriptions for accuracy and changes. 

Objective 3: Review personnel policies to make necessary revisions to keep them current.

Objective 4: Conduct a review of Library policies and amend as needed.  Create policies for items

    not addressed in our current policies

 

Objective 5:  Review and update other contents of Trustee Manual not highlighted above.

 

Objective 6:  Demonstrate continued efficiency through smart fiscal decisions and careful planning

     of the yearly budget

 

Objective 7: Implement an annual training plan for workforce development for both staff and volunteers.  This includes a set of core technology competencies for staff as well as review of skills for volunteers. Also, schedule regular review of skills for all volunteers.   Re-implement regular staff meetings. 

[1]  From the Library catalog issued in December 1883 and classified as No. 017.1W, Accession No.

[2]  Ibid.