Strategic Plan 2026-2029 Overview

Introduction

Over the course of 2025, the Hastings Public Library engaged with key stakeholders to learn what the community needs from us. That feedback led to an updated Vision statement, a new Purpose statement, and a new 4-year Strategic Plan. Our new Strategic Commitments will guide us as we maintain our role as a vital hub of learning, enrichment, and connections for the community at large.

The library staff and the Board of Trustees sincerely thank the entire community for participating in surveys & focus groups and giving us honest feedback. That helped us create a plan to meet the needs of the community.

Download the 2026-2029 Strategic Plan without the Appendices

Download the 2026-2029 Strategic Plan Appendices

The full downloadable plan above has more details, but below is a brief summary.

Purpose and Vision

These two statements define who we are as a library:

	The library is dedicated to providing access to the information and resources essential for exploring the world, envisioning new possibilities, encouraging imagination, and embracing lifelong learning while fostering connections among individuals.

	The library strives to be a vital hub of trust and knowledge at the heart of our community, where everyone is embraced and empowered to come together for personal growth and collective enrichment.

Strategic Commitments

These Strategic Commitments will guide us moving forward:

Commitment	Description & Key Focuses
Resources	Enrich the resources available to the community Physical & Digital Collections and the Physical Building
Partnerships	Enhance existing partnerships and establish new connections Schools, Non-Profit Partners, BCF, and Healthcare Partners
Innovation	Explore innovative approaches to educate, entertain, and inform the varied communities we serve Programming, Makerspace/STEAM, Community Outreach, and Unique Services
Operations	Expand organizational capacity to support future growth and lasting community impact Financial Sustainability, Staff & Board Support, and Marketing & Social Media

Action Plan Updates

Over the life of the plan, the library will provide updates on specific action plan items to the Board at the beginning of each quarter at the normally scheduled Board Meetings.

Updates will also be posted on the website for public review.

Questions can be directed to the Library Director.

strategic plan