Forbes Library, a beloved cornerstone of the Northampton community, is thrilled to announce the launch of its comprehensive Strategic Plan for Fiscal Years 2025 through 2027. This visionary plan charts an exciting course for the library to better serve the community and elevate its offerings.
Developed through extensive community engagement, including input from Northampton residents who attended community forums and the invaluable responses from over 1,100 community members to our survey, Forbes Library’s Strategic Plan is a testament to the power of collective voices.
The library also consulted with thirty local stakeholders to identify challenges facing the city in the coming years and how the library can play a significant role in addressing them. The involvement of the library staff, board of trustees, Friends of Forbes Library, Racial & Social Justice Advisory Group, and Coolidge Museum Advisory Committee was instrumental in shaping the plan.
Key Highlights of the Forbes Library Strategic Plan:
- Community Partnerships: Forbes Library aims to strengthen collaborations with local organizations, recognizing the vital role of partnerships in addressing challenges such as social isolation, affordability, and the digital divide—issues exacerbated by the recent pandemic.
- Community Well-being: The library is committed to enhancing community well-being, improving access to resources, supporting the city’s climate goals, upgrading facilities for better accessibility, and bolstering staff support.
- Enhanced Offerings: Forbes Library plans to enrich its offerings with the addition of a stage on the lawn, a new teen space, and a diverse range of non-book items in the circulating collection. The library will also expand its local history collection, with a focus on preserving resources related to significant cultural and political movements of the last 50 years.
- Promotion and Outreach: Recognizing the need to highlight its valuable resources, Forbes Library will intensify promotion efforts to ensure the community is aware of new and existing offerings.
This ambitious Strategic Plan represents a significant achievement for Forbes Library. It wouldn’t have been possible without the dedication of Katy Wight, Vice President of the Trustees of Forbes Library who chaired the committee, committee members, the leadership of Lisa Downing and Molly Moss, library staff, and the unwavering support of the Northampton community. Forbes Library looks forward to a future enriched by these community focused initiatives, further strengthening its position as a cherished community resource.
For more information, please visit www.forbeslibrary.org or contact director@forbeslibrary.org.
Media Contact:
Lisa Downing, Forbes Library Director, 413-587-1016, director@forbeslibrary.org
About Forbes Library:
Forbes Library, nestled in the heart of Northampton, has been a cherished institution since its establishment. It is dedicated to providing diverse resources, fostering community connections, and promoting lifelong learning for all residents. With a rich history and a commitment to innovation, Forbes Library is at the forefront of serving the evolving needs of its vibrant community.