At the beginning of the year, the Mat-Su Borough brought in the consulting firm Rose Group International to create a five-year strategic plan for the Borough’s public libraries. Strategic planning typically happens every five years, and aims to understand what the community is using libraries for, how the library can better help the needs of the community, and lay out a plan for libraries to grow. As part of the process, spoke to Mat-Su Library Board members and Library staff one-on-one.
This week, the firm conducted open-houses at the Big Lake, Sutton, Talkeetna, Trapper Creek, and Willow public libraries to get feedback directly from the community.
Dr. Rachel Headley, CEO of Rose Group International led the open-houses asking those who attended questions like: What library service is most important to you? What is your favorite thing about your library? and What would you like to see added to your library in the future?
Dr. Headley said conducting these open houses helped Rose Group International identify common trends between the libraries while understanding each library’s unique needs individually. She said that, while the libraries may differ in the programs offered, the age of typical library goers, and the physical facilities, those who attended the open houses consistently said the libraries are critical for the community and help connect them to various local and state services.
Dr. Headley said those unable to attend the open house at their local library can still provide feedback either online or by filling out paper surveys at their local library by February 16th.
Rose Group International will use this feedback and propose their strategic plan within the next few months.
