The Watertown Free Public Library announced that it seeks Strategic Planning Volunteers to be part of the creation of the latest strategic plan.
Libraries across Massachusetts are required to have a 3-5 year strategic plan on file with the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners to be eligible for construction or Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) grants. An integral part of this process is to get input from the community.
To do this, the Watertown Free Public Library has four opportunities for you to participate. First, and easiest, is by filling out a quick, four minute survey, available online at watertownlib.org/survey. Second is acting as a library ambassador to the community. Third is by volunteering to canvass door to door or on the street. Fourth, is by applying to serve on the Strategic Planning Committee.
The goal of involving community members in planning is to make sure that programs and services are driven by the needs and interests of the community.
Library Ambassador
Acting as a library ambassador is a low effort, but high impact way to participate in strategic planning. What we want you to do is share the survey with your friends, social media contacts, and community organizations you are involved in. You can do this now, easily, by simply sharing the survey. To take it one simple step further check out our Library Ambassador Guide for more ideas. If you love the Watertown Free Public Library and have wanted to find a way to give back, this is your chance to show us the love with minimal impact on your busy life.
Canvassing
This is a great opportunity to give back to the library if you are someone who has a few hours to spare on an evening/weekend before January. We’re looking for people who are comfortable going door to door or soliciting feedback in high traffic areas like bus stops, grocery stores, etc. Canvassers will present potential participants with the survey and ask them to respond. Instructions will be given on the proper way to present the survey; no knowledge of library services or operation is required.
Strategic Planning Committee
If collaborative work appeals to you, please consider serving on the Strategic Planning committee. We are in search of 3-5 Watertown residents who will work with library staff and Trustees to provide ideas for library development as well as act as a liaison for community input. As a committee member you will be asked to review data, reports, community and staff feedback, and discuss plans for the future library. We are seeking a diverse membership to represent varied viewpoints and experiences. If you are a member of a traditionally underrepresented group, we encourage you to apply and be a part of the conversation.
Applicants must be available to attend evening meetings once a month January 2020 through September 2020. To be considered please fill out the online application form by 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 15. Successful applicants will be notified by library administration on in early January.
The first Strategic Planning Meeting will be on Wednesday, Jan. 22 at 7 p.m. in the Watertown Savings Bank Meeting room in the library.
For complete details on these opportunities please visit watertownlib.org/planning.
About the Watertown Free Public Library
The Watertown Free Public Library provides access to a wide variety of popular materials, resources, services, and programs that fulfill the informational, cultural and recreational needs of Watertown and surrounding communities. The WFPL works to create an environment that attracts and welcomes users of all ages and abilities