Media Release - Direction Set for the Next Five Years at West Vancouver Memorial Library
Tuesday, April 05, 2011
The West Vancouver Memorial Library Board presented the 2011-2015 Strategic Plan to Council and members of the public on Monday, April 4. The strategic plan is based on research from an in-house survey, a non-user survey, an environmental scan, and white papers prepared by Library staff.
“The Strategic Plan sets the direction for the next five years,” says Paul Tutsch, chair of the Library’s Strategic Planning Working Group. “The plan provides us with the flexibility to respond quickly in this changing world, while also setting priorities to keep us focused on our vision.” Tutsch highlighted the many changes in our community, in technology and in demand for library services that make revising priorities and setting new directions necessary.
The Plan sets a new vision for the Library, stating: “The Library is recognized as the leader in navigating information, and as a dynamic space that inspires discovery and connection.” The library’s in-house survey revealed that 93 per cent of respondents reported having access to at least one of the following technologies: high speed Internet access at home, a cell phone, an iPod or music player, a smartphone, or an eReader. This demonstrates just how connected West Vancouver residents are. Visits to the Library’s homepage have more than doubled in the last five years, and demand for the collection remains strong with 3,500 items checked out on an average weekday. Demand for staff assistance has also almost doubled with requests for reading recommendations, research, and instruction.
Director of Library Services, Jenny Benedict, says, “Information is now available in so many different locations and formats, and a lot of people are asking for help with the technology. The library connects people to the knowledge they need and our space, both virtual and physical, provides opportunities for the community to discover new interests and meet people.”
The Library consistently receives the highest rating of all District services and in the 2010 Community Survey received a 98 per cent satisfaction rating.
The Library’s Strategic Planning Working Group included representatives from the Library Board, the Library Foundation, the Friends of the Library, and Library staff. The library thanks all participants for their contribution and commitment to the library and West Vancouver community.
The 2011-2015 Strategic Plan can be viewed on the West Vancouver Memorial Library’s website at www.westvanlibrary.ca
About the District of West Vancouver
The District of West Vancouver is the local government led by Mayor Pamela Goldsmith-Jones and Council. Home to more than 44,000 residents, West Vancouver is a local government which strives to "inspire excellence and lead by example". Our Vision and Mission guide us to pursue our treasured quality of life and will be the measure of our success as a community. West Vancouver is a community built on innovation, a strong spirit of personal civic commitment and a deep value for relationships.
Media Contact:
Jessica Delaney
Director of Communications
Cell: 604-360-8131
Direct: 604-925-4736