Between Winter 2022 and Spring of 2023, the library conducted a process called Cataloging the Community, wherein a sample of 40 leaders from across Lopez Island were interviewed and asked what challenges they saw facing the community as well what aspirations we should strive towards to ensure our island is a place where everyone thrives.
We also conducted an open Community Survey asking these same questions in both English and Spanish. Over 200 responses were received and it was inspiring to read your ideas! The point of these interviews was to listen deeply to the community first and foremost, and then to use the findings as the basis for an informed response in the form of the library’s Strategic Direction and priorities.
In June 2023, the Library Board of Trustees adopted the results of this input and we are now rolling out the library’s Next Chapter, a blueprint of the library’s strategic direction and priority focus areas. We recognize that the above process represents a point-in-time and there are more voices that need to be included. Your guidance is encouraged! Please reach out to any of the library staff with your ideas on how the library can make a positive impact on the community.
Mission
Where Possibilities Thrive: Nourishing Minds and Strengthening Community
Vision
To be the trusted heart of the community; inspiring wonder, fostering connections, and empowering individuals to thrive through lifelong learning.
Values – what makes us tick
Empowerment – We act in service “with”, instead of “to,” the community and strive to elevate voices from diverse walks of life.
Service – We provide inclusive, equitable, reliable and quality service in a welcoming environment.
Respect – We celebrate the breadth of ideas and opinions across the community and seek to promote mutual respect and understanding.
Passion – We approach our work with zeal, kindness, and compassion in order to cultivate curiosity and strengthen individual and collective passions.
Innovation – We focus on continual engagement and collaboration with the community to create services, programs, and collections aligned with its evolving needs and interests.
Strategic Priorities
Foster Community Cohesion – We provide a space for dialogue, collaboration, and shared experiences. We cultivate an environment that celebrates the rich tapestry of our community and fosters connections among individuals and groups.
Promote Environmental Stewardship – We are committed to nurturing a sustainable future for our island, its community, and the planet. Our goal is to minimize our ecological footprint by implementing green practices, offering educational resources on environmental topics, and providing a platform for promoting eco-conscious initiatives.
Embrace Inclusivity – We support community members to create an inclusive and welcoming environment where people of all backgrounds, abilities, and identities feel valued and represented. Through diverse collections, accessible resources, and inclusive programming, we strive to celebrate the richness of our community and ensure that everyone feels seen, heard, and empowered.
Enhance Library Infrastructure; Elevate the Experience – We offer an outstanding experience for the community. Our goal is to invest in improving library infrastructure, including upgraded technology, comfortable spaces, and relevant amenities. By enhancing our facilities, we aim to create a dynamic and inviting environment that meets the evolving needs of our patrons, ensuring that the library remains a hub of knowledge, inspiration, and connection for years to come.
Ignite Lifelong Learning Adventures – We believe that learning is a lifelong journey that never stops. Our goal is to ignite a passion for continuous learning by offering diverse educational resources, engaging programs, and interactive activities for all ages. We aim to empower our community to explore new horizons, expand their knowledge, and embrace the joy of lifelong learning, opening doors to endless possibilities.
Promote Island Resiliency – We recognize the many challenges people face in living on a remote, rural island community. Limited affordable housing opportunities, rising cost of living, a strained health system, fragile food system, and unreliable transportation options are among a host of issues the island faces. We will support the sharing of knowledge and encourage dialogue to foster understanding, support, and collaborative solutions for island resiliency.
Nurture Youth and Opportunities for Growth – We are committed to providing a nurturing environment that supports the personal, emotional, and psychological growth of young minds. Our goal is to offer diverse learning opportunities, engaging programs, and interactive experiences that keep youth excited and engaged. By fostering a love for reading, curiosity, and lifelong learning, we aim to empower the next generation with the tools they need to succeed, thrive, and seize every opportunity that comes their way.