Prince William Public Libraries Strategic Plan, 2024-2028

Prince William Public Libraries

Strategic Plan 2024–2028

Prince William Public Libraries

Strategic Plan

VISION We are the hub connecting people to the transforming power of information.

2024–2028

STRATEGIC GOALS Technology and Digital Inclusion PWPL will provide effective and equitable access to technology within the library for staff and patrons and digital resources beyond the library walls.

Outreach and Community Engagement PWPL will engage with our evolving community through outreach to reduce barriers to access.

Inviting Spaces PWPL will cultivate accessible, multifunctional spaces to serve as safe, sustainable, and welcoming destinations

Community Responsive Enrichment PWPL will provide inclusive resources, services, and programming to serve and fulfill the needs of our evolving community.

Accessible Resources and Collection PWPL will continue to expand its collection of materials and resources in various formats that respond to public interest and demand.

Approachable, Adaptive Experts PWPL will foster training and professional development opportunities that support the growth and knowledge of staff to ensure excellent patron experiences in our libraries.

MISSION Prince William Public Libraries brings people, information, and ideas together in a welcoming, inclusive environment.

Message from the Chair and Director Prince William Public Libraries is embarking on the next iteration of our Strategic Plan, 2024–2028, following the successes we shared and built upon in 2019–2023.

Despite the challenges and obstacles presented by the COVID-19 pandemic in early 2020, we still held true to our vision to be the hub connecting people to the transforming power of information.

Brian Murphy Chair, Library Board of Trustees

Deborah L. Wright Director, Prince William Public Libraries

Our Strategic Plan drove our staff, partners, and community to actualize our mission to bring people, information, and ideas together to enrich lives and build community in a welcoming, inclusive environment.

Chinn Park, Central, and Bull Run Libraries benefitted from minor to major renovations to realign library spaces to 21st-century needs. We opened a new branch in Manassas City in February 2021 and began new Makerspace services at Central and Bull Run locations in the past two years.

One of the barriers to access to library services was removed when PWPL went fine-free in July 2021. Patrons have discovered that while we want our materials returned so that other community members can utilize them, we no longer seek to restrict access by charging late fees. Patrons have continued to be good stewards of our resources and have appreciated the removal of these fees.

PWPL has expanded our technology services through improved Wi-Fi at our facilities, circulating mobile Wi-Fi hotspots and Chromebooks, and implementing credit payment options for printing and copying services in our buildings.

As we look ahead to the future of PWPL, a mobile library will begin serving our community sometime in 2024. Land has been purchased on Linton Hall Road for a future library that, though still some years in the future, will close a gap in access to library facilities for the western side of the county.

While our Strategic Goals will continue our progress from the last five years, our approach will be nothing short of innovative, and PWPL will continue to evolve to meet the needs and interests of our community. The next five years promise to be exciting for our county and libraries.

We are so glad you are on this journey with us.

Goal Area

Technology and Digital Inclusion

PWPL will provide effective and equitable access to technology within the library for staff and patrons and digital resources beyond the library walls.

At PWPL, our efforts to introduce technology and digital inclusion are paramount in creating a future where technology is a gateway to knowledge and opportunities for all. At PWPL, we’re creating a future where technology is a bridge, not a barrier. Together, we’ll reach new heights of knowledge, innovation, and inclusion. Here’s how we plan to make this vision a reality:

Innovative Solutions We believe in progress, and progress requires innovation. Our first step is to conduct a review of current technology to improve and enhance service and resources.

Technology Inclusion We are on a mission to identify and invest in technology resources that break down access barriers. Everyone deserves the opportunity to harness the power of technology, and we’re here to make that a reality.

Mobile Optimization In a world where mobile devices are at the center of daily life, we recognize the importance of mobile technology services. We plan to improve mobile technology services by expanding and upgrading available options.

Technology Training We’re dedicated to providing comprehensive technology training for our staff and patrons. We believe knowledge is power and want to empower our community to navigate the digital world confidently.

Goal Area

Outreach and Community Engagement

PWPL will engage with our evolving community through outreach to reduce barriers to access.

We hold a deep commitment to building lasting connections with our ever-evolving community. To create a brighter, more inclusive future, we must break down barriers and foster understanding. Our new Mobile Library, benefitting residents by focusing on enhanced outreach to underserved communities, is just one way we plan to ignite positive change. Here’s how we plan to make more of an impact:

Evaluation Every step forward begins with a clear understanding of where we currently stand. We are analyzing our current outreach strategies and resources, allowing us to formalize performance measurements to chart a path forward.

Identification Our vision extends far beyond the walls of our libraries. We are committed to understanding and embracing our diverse community. We will identify target communities and conduct outreach and community engagement efforts to reduce barriers to access.

Expansion To make a difference, we are diversifying our outreach approaches, extending our reach, and fostering more collaboration. We’re committed to being in our community where they are, thereby redefining community engagement.

Goal Area

At PWPL, our commitment to “Leadership at All Levels” knows no bounds. The foundation of a positive library experience is our staff, and we are dedicated to their growth and knowledge. We want to ensure that our patrons have memorable experiences at our libraries, and we envision a future where every interaction at our libraries is not just helpful but transformative. Here’s how we plan to make this happen:

Approachable, Adaptive Experts

PWPL will foster training and professional development opportunities that support the growth and knowledge of staff to ensure excellent patron experiences in our libraries.

Staff Success We’re not just committed to our staff’s growth; we’re crafting a roadmap to success.

We begin by identifying the core competencies that define excellence and will develop systemwide standards and best practices to support their achievements.

Professional Development We aim to nurture a culture of continuous learning and improvement. We will identify and provide training opportunities to encourage staff growth and develop specific skills to enhance their expertise. We’re investing in their potential, believing that when they thrive, our community thrives.

Workplace Culture Our libraries are more than just buildings–we are fostering a positive workplace culture by developing staff who are inclusive and welcoming to all.

Goal Area

Inviting Spaces

PWPL will cultivate accessible, multifunctional spaces to serve as safe, sustainable, and welcoming destinations.

We envision our libraries as more than just spaces. Together, we’re building places where everyone feels welcome, the community flourishes, and the future is nurtured with every page turned and question asked. Here’s how we plan to transform our spaces:

Safety

Signage

Safety is paramount. We are committed to ensuring every visitor feels they can explore, learn, and connect with peace of mind. To achieve this, we are implementing safety and security protocols, and our staff will receive ongoing training, simulations, and resources.

We’re reviewing and updating our library signage to ensure that our messages are not only clear but also promote inclusivity.

We want every visitor to feel welcome and empowered by the information and services we offer.

Accessibility

Sustainability

Inclusivity is at the core of our mission. We are looking at PWPL through the lens of accessibility to maximize inclusivity and make our services and spaces accessible to all.

We’re identifying and implementing ongoing sustainability projects because we believe that–to be more sustainable–we are not only improving our community now but setting an example for a better tomorrow.

Goal Area

Community Responsive Enrichment

PWPL will provide inclusive resources, services, and programming to serve and fulfill the needs of our evolving community.

At PWPL, we believe in the extraordinary potential that our community holds.

We’re committed to providing resources, services, and programming that not only meet but exceed the needs of our ever-evolving community. Here’s how we plan to make this vision a reality:

Resources We’re collaborating systemwide to evaluate, promote, and offer resources that span multiple platforms. Our makerspace equipment and supplies, gaming, and STEM educational toys are just a few ways we’re making these resources accessible to all.

Services We’re driven by our community. We’re analyzing the functionality of our current services to ensure that they are aligned with the needs of our patrons.

Programming Our programs are more than events; they are opportunities for connection, entertainment, and learning. We’re evaluating our current programs to identify ways to optimize and expand equitable programming.

Training We are committed to continuously improving our programs and services. To achieve this, we’re developing and providing training on programming best practices and standards in multiple formats.

Goal Area

Accessible Resources and Collection

PWPL will continue to expand its collection of materials and resources in various formats that respond to public interest and demand.

We are committed to providing resources and collections that inspire, educate, and empower.

Here’s how we plan to continue expanding the world within our community’s reach:

Physical Collection Our physical spaces are the heart of our libraries, and within our walls, there’s a diverse, engaging collection of printed materials and physical media. We continue to expand our collection to mirror the evolving interests and needs of our community.

Digital Collection Our Digital Collection embodies the future of PWPL. We focus on maintaining and expanding our diverse digital materials collection to include more e-books, audiobooks, and online resources at pwcva.gov/digitallibrary to enhance and support the physical collection found in our libraries.

Digital Library We are enhancing our Digital Library to provide residents with easy, reliable access to data and information from reputable sources.