Memorandum 

You are invited to participate in the initial phase of a new strategic planning process for the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners. The 1993 strategic plan has served us well, and it is now time to look at how statewide programs can best be used to improve library services for the people of Massachusetts for the next 5-10 years.

This strategic planning process begins with an opportunity for all members of the library community to participate in "key issues forums." At these forums we will welcome your comments on how current Board programs have helped your library be successful, how programs could be improved, and what programs not currently offered would help your library succeed. In addition to the forums listed below we will welcome written comment, so your voice will be heard even if you cannot attend a forum.

Please join MBLC Chairman John Arnold and me at one of the forums listed below:

Friday, May 13 from 10:00am to Noon
Brooks Free Library, Harwich

Thursday, May 19 from 10:00am to Noon
Newton Free Library, Newton

Friday, May 20 from 10:00am to Noon
Middleborough Public Library, Middleborough

Monday, May 23 from 1:00 to 3:00pm
Berkshire Athenaeum, Pittsfield

Thursday, May 26 from 10:00am to Noon
Nevins Memorial Library, Methuen

Monday, June 6 from 10:00am to Noon
WMRLS Headquarters , Whately

Tuesday, June 7 from 10:00am to Noon
Millbury Public Library, Millbury

The results of these forums will be compiled and reported to the Board of Library Commissioners and to the library community in September. At that time the Board will appoint a strategic planning committee (or committees) to undertake a detailed analysis of the key issues and develop goals and objectives for the next strategic plan. That group will complete its work by early 2006. With the new plan in place, implementation will begin with the development of program, legislative and funding proposals required to implement the plan.