Description

Getting started with strategic planning or need a refresher? This workshop provides practical strategies for a simplified, effective, and enjoyable planning process. We'll explore the basics of strategic planning for libraries with a focus on how to gather staff and community input. Participants will leave with ideas, tools, and a little spark of inspiration.

Learning Outcomes

After completing this workshop, learners will be able to:

1. Explain the value and purpose of strategic planning in libraries.
2. Identify the essential components of a strategic plan.
3. Choose 2–3 methods to gather insights from your staff and community.

How will I be participating?

During this in-person workshop, expect frequent, active participation for maximum impact! Collaborate with peers through the use of breakout groups and hands-on activities.

Please note, sessions will not be recorded.

Location

This workshop will be held IN PERSON at the MLS office in Marlborough, located at 33 Boston Post Road West, Suite 400 (Fourth Floor), Marlborough, MA 01752. Parking is free and plentiful.

Directions

Guidelines for conduct 

Please refer to the Learning Hub's Community Guidelines for Conduct as you engage with this workshop. Additional policies and information can be found in the site wide footer.

Accessibility

The Massachusetts Library System (MLS) strives to create inclusive and accessible events. To request a reasonable accommodation to attend this event, please contact Sarah Donnelly (Event & Project Manager) at sdonnelly@masslibsystem.org or 508-357-2121 ext. 301. All reasonable accommodation requests should be made no fewer than two (2) weeks before the event, although we will attempt to fulfill reasonable requests made after that time. If you may need assistance during an emergency evacuation, please let us know in advance so we can plan accordingly. 

How do I get a certificate?

To receive a certificate of completion by email, participants must: 

• Attend the live session in full 
• Actively participate in all workshop activities, including discussions and breakout groups 
• Complete the post-workshop evaluation 

Why participation matters 

This workshop is designed to be interactive and collaborative. Active participation strengthens the experience for everyone and supports deeper learning. If you prefer self-paced learning, MLS offers self-paced courses and live and recorded webinars that do not require live participation. 

Registration is in the MLS Learning Hub: Register in the MLS Learning Hub.  

If you don’t have a Learning Hub account, create one here: Log in / Create account.