Long Range Plan 2003 - 2007 : Public Library Initiative 

In 1999, the Board launched a statewide planning effort intended to provide increased support for public libraries through the state aid to public libraries and related programs. The resulting Proposal to Strengthen and Improve Public Libraries in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts adopted by the Board in February 2000 seeks $9 million in new support for public libraries under a number of program initiatives. These include a $2 million annual public library grants program; a $350,000 annual Small Libraries in Networks program; a $4 million annual increase in the basic state aid program to recognize libraries that exceed minimum standards; a $1 million increase in basic formula state aid; and a $1 million annual fund for libraries to encourage private fund raising. As of yet these programs have not been funded by the legislature.