Meaningful and strategic alignment: A roadmap for library success

Abstract

It is vitally important for libraries to have strategic plans aligned with institutional vision and missions, and with actionable goals aligned with the user needs. Library plans are often developed in a “library knows best” vacuum without considering the user perspective. Often assumptions regarding the needs of key library stakeholders are clouded by history and tradition and by asking the wrong questions of the community. By carefully reviewing institutional plans, identifying key stakeholders, thoughtfully assessing user needs, and then applying library staff expertise, libraries can develop meaningful plans with Specific, Measurable, Actionable, Relevant or Results-oriented or Realistic, Time-bound (SMART) goals.