Pomfret Public Library Board of Trustees developed the following five-year strategic plan based on community aspirations for the Library as discovered through our Library Services Survey, February 2017. A summary of the survey results can be found HERE.

Resources – 81% of our survey respondents visit the library to borrow library materials; 21% of respondents use our online resources. Of those who made specific comments about the collection, 2/3 asked for more audio and online books.  Conclusion: we can’t increase the number of items in our collection without increased shelf space, but we can continue to evaluate to be certain that the items we have are high-turnover, and we can promote online resources.
Goal: Maximize our collection, promote online collection.

• Evaluate collection turnover to identify high-demand formats and genre. Reorganize as necessary and make adjustments to acquisitions process.
• Advocate for increased funding to provide adequate physical and digital resources.
• Promote online resources. Use Hoopla ‘Collections’ feature to highlight current interests.
• Promote our collection through Facebook, reviews, trailers, book talks, etc.
• Improve signage, displays, etc.

Services – survey respondents requested more programs, more hours, return of Interlibrary Loan service, tech help, and outreach to seniors. Conclusion: past usage trends don’t indicate a consistent need for evening library hours, but we do want to find ways to serve those who aren’t currently using the library.
Goal: Be responsive to community needs and preferences.

• Serve outside business hours with outdoor 24/7 library lockers.
• Virtual ‘suggestion box’ for program ideas.
• Remain open to opportunities to partner with other town agencies.
• Offer regular tutoring sessions on the use of library services and other basic technology.
• Pomfret residents borrowing at libraries in other towns has increased 25% in the last two years (9794 items in 2016) since the CT State Library discontinued the ILL system and reduced the delivery service. Keep informed on status of new statewide ILL system and delivery service and investigate alternatives that may provide more timely and effective service.

Facility – survey respondents requested more space for meetings, programs, computers, collection, accessibility and parking. Conclusion: Space restrictions are affecting our ability to serve library users, but there is little we can do to expand our services without expanding our square footage.
Goal: Maximize current space in the short term; pursue an addition and/or renovation long term.

• Lessen attic clutter by developing new strategies for handling used book donations.
• Enlarge parking lot by adding gravel section.
• Work with Friends to enhance deck and trails – signs, furniture, sound garden…
• Continue to investigate options for an addition and renovation of current space
  • Complete our documents packet (mission/needs alignment, survey results, space planning guide, strategic plan, etc.)
  • Form a fund raising committee
  • Form a building committee
  • Issue a Request for Proposal
  • Select proposal, put it to bid
  • Build an addition!