2026–2030
Adopted by the Board of Trustees – June 18, 2026
Prepared by the Library Director and Board of Trustees
Introduction
The Norwood Public Library Plan of Service for 2026–2030 provides a framework to guide library services, programs, and development over the next five years. The plan reflects the library’s commitment to supporting literacy, lifelong learning, community engagement, and equitable access to information.
As a community-centered organization, the Norwood Public Library strives to remain responsive to the evolving needs of residents while responsibly stewarding its resources. This plan outlines the goals, objectives, and action steps that will guide the library’s work through 2030.
The plan was developed collaboratively by the Library Director and Board of Trustees, with input from the community through a survey and stakeholder engagement. It reflects ongoing assessment of community needs and library usage.
Mission Statement
The mission of the Norwood Public Library is to provide residents of the Norwood Library District with access to resources, services, and programs that foster literacy, creativity, and personal and professional growth.
The library is committed to being responsive to community needs while cultivating a welcoming and supportive environment for all.
Vision Statement
The Norwood Public Library strives to be a welcoming space that fosters a lifelong love of reading and learning—where community members can share ideas, build connections, and access the tools needed to thrive in an ever-changing world.
Community Needs
The Norwood Public Library serves residents of the Norwood Public Library District in northern New York. As a rural library, it plays an essential role as an educational, cultural, and community resource.
Needs were identified through a community survey and engagement with local stakeholders and include:
Access to Information and Technology
Residents rely on the library for internet access, technology assistance, and digital resources. The library supports this need by providing computers, Wi-Fi, and guidance in navigating online services.
Early Literacy and Youth Development
Families depend on the library for early literacy programming that promotes reading readiness and fosters a lifelong love of reading. Programs for children and teens provide educational enrichment and positive social engagement.
Lifelong Learning Opportunities
Adults benefit from educational programs such as author talks, historical presentations, genealogical research assistance, and creative workshops.
Community Engagement
The library serves as a gathering place where residents attend programs, participate in community events, and connect with neighbors.
Access to Shared Library Resources
Through regional library cooperation and resource sharing, patrons are able to access materials and services beyond the local collection.
These needs inform the goals and priorities outlined in this Plan of Service.
Goals, Objectives, and Action Plans
Goal 1: Provide 21st-Century Literacies and Foster Lifelong Learning
Objective 1.1
Promote lifelong literacy and a culture of reading for all ages, with a strong foundation in early literacy and continued opportunities for learning.
Action Steps
• Sustain and enhance early literacy initiatives, including story times and family-centered literacy programming.
• Maintain and expand collections that support diverse reading levels and interests for all age groups.
• Encourage family participation in literacy activities that foster reading readiness and a love of learning.
• Offer adult learning opportunities such as author talks, historical presentations, genealogical programs, and special interest classes.
Measurable Outcomes
• Increase attendance at children’s literacy programs.
• Increase participation in adult programs.
• Maintain or increase circulation across age groups.
Objective 1.2
Promote digital literacy and technology proficiency for patrons of all ages.
Action Steps
• Provide guidance and instruction on emerging technologies and safe, responsible internet use.
• Offer cybersecurity and digital safety resources.
• Develop and maintain online tutorials for navigating library resources.
• Assist patrons with accessing eBooks, digital media, and research tools.
Measurable Outcomes
• Increase use of digital resources annually.
• Increase engagement with online tutorials and services.
• Track and analyze requests for technology assistance and program attendance.
Goal 2: Expand Access to Library Materials
Objective 2.1
Increase access to a diverse and evolving range of library resources.
Action Steps
• Ensure the collection includes diverse formats, such as large print, audiobooks, and assistive technologies.
• Expand collections to include nontraditional lending items such as hobby kits, tools, or equipment as feasible.
• Collaborate with neighboring libraries to explore and develop shared specialty collections.
• Promote and encourage the use of interlibrary loan services (ILL) to ensure patrons have access to materials beyond the local collection.
• Increase awareness and use of digital resources, including eBooks, audiobooks, and databases.
Measurable Outcomes
• Increase circulation of traditional and nontraditional materials.
• Increase use of interlibrary loan services.
• Increase digital resource usage.
Goal 3: Strengthen Community Connections and Engagement
Objective 3.1
Increase community awareness and use of library services.
Action Steps
• Promote library services through participation in community events such as school functions, the Norwood Fourth of July Parade, the Harvest Festival, and Kiwanis Kids Day.
• Maintain a consistent presence and communicate regularly through social media and newsletters.
• Expand teen-focused programming to foster engagement.
• Support and revitalize the Teen Advisory Board.
• Promote awareness of digital resources through outreach and in-library promotion.
Measurable Outcomes
• Increase program and event attendance.
• Increase newsletter distribution and social media engagement.
• Increase teen program participation.
• Maintain an active Teen Advisory Board.
Objective 3.2
Showcase local creativity and culture.
Action Steps
• Feature the work of local artists, authors, and creators.
• Expand opportunities for community exhibits and displays.
Measurable Outcomes
• Increase the number of community exhibits and displays.
• Track and analyze event attendance.
• Gauge community interest by collecting patron feedback on exhibits and displays.
Objective 3.3
Strengthen partnerships with local organizations.
Action Steps
• Maintain and expand partnerships with schools, the Norwood Historical Association and Museum, recreation programs, and civic organizations.
• Explore new collaborations with community organizations and local businesses.
• Expand lending of equipment such as tables, hotspots, etc. to support community needs.
Measurable Outcomes
• Increase number of partnerships.
• Increase use of shared resources and equipment.
Goal 4: Support Professional Development and Leadership
Objective 4.1
The Board of Trustees will ensure informed and effective governance of the library.
Action Steps
• Maintain familiarity with current trustee resources and best practices, including the New York Library Association Trustee Handbook.
• Complete NYS-required continuing education and training annually.
• Participate in workshops, webinars, and training opportunities offered through the North Country Library System and other professional organizations.
Measurable Outcomes
• All trustees will meet annual continuing education and training requirements.
• Increase participation in additional trustee training opportunities.
Objective 4.2
Support ongoing professional development for library staff and leadership.
Action Steps
• Participate in professional development opportunities for library directors through the North Country Library System, the New York Library Association, and other relevant organizations.
• Require staff to attend training, workshops, and webinars aligned with their roles.
• Support staff skill development in areas such as technology, programming, and customer service.
Measurable Outcomes
• Complete all required professional development.
• Increase participation in additional staff training opportunities.
• Increase positive community feedback about library service.
Goal 5: Provide a Welcoming, Accessible, and Comfortable Environment
Objective 5.1
Maintain and improve the physical facility.
Action Steps
• Maintain building systems and infrastructure to ensure safety and accessibility.
• Pursue construction grants when needed.
• Establish capital funds for necessary repairs and improvements.
• Explore additional environmentally sustainable practices where feasible.
Measurable Outcomes
• Implement at least one new environmentally sustainable practice during the plan cycle.
• Ensure annual contribution to the capital fund balance.
• Complete prioritized facility projects.
Objective 5.2
Optimize outdoor spaces for programming and community use.
Action Steps
• Promote use of the gazebo and lawn areas for both library-led events and community use.
• Encourage volunteer participation in the Library Garden Club.
• Further cultivate, maintain, and enhance the Memorial Garden.
Measurable Outcomes
• Increase outdoor programming participation.
• Increase volunteer participation in the Library Garden Club.
• Maintain outdoor spaces as community assets.
Goal 6: Ensure Financial Sustainability
Objective 6.1
Support long-term financial stability for library services and operations.
Action Steps
• Enhance the library website and social media platforms to simplify and promote year-round donation opportunities.
• Apply for grants from diverse public, private, and government funding sources.
• Seek programming support from community partners/members within the greater Norwood area.
• Evaluate the need for adjustments to the Norwood Public Library Special District tax funding as determined by the Board of Trustees.
Measurable Outcomes
• Apply to at least two new grant funding sources annually.
• Increase community donations by at least 10% during the plan cycle.
• Increase the number of online donors.
The following timeline provides a general framework for implementation. Specific initiatives may shift based on community needs, funding, and staffing.
Implementation Schedule (2026 – 2030)
Ongoing Throughout 2026–2030
• Support trustee and staff professional development through continuing education, workshops, and training opportunities. (Goal 4) • Pursue grant opportunities and strengthen fundraising efforts. (Goal 6) • Expand community outreach and partnerships and increase promotion of library services. (Goal 3) • Maintain and enhance library collections, digital resources, and technology services. (Goals 1 & 2) • Continue facility maintenance and improvement efforts. (Goal 5)
2026
• Finalize and adopt the Plan of Service. • Begin development of online tutorials and digital literacy resources. (Goal 1) • Expand nontraditional lending resources and accessible materials. (Goal 2) • Promote awareness of digital resources and services. (Goals 1 & 2)
2027
• Revitalize the Teen Advisory Board and expand teen-focused programming. (Goal 3) • Increase collaboration with schools, community organizations, and local businesses. (Goal 3) • Expand opportunities for community exhibits, displays, and cultural programming. (Goal 3)
2028
• Evaluate growth in programming, circulation, and digital resource usage. (Goals 1 & 2) • Continue facility improvements and environmentally sustainable practices. (Goal 5) • Assess community interest and participation in library programs and services. (Goal 3)
2029
• Assess progress on strategic goals in preparation for the next Plan of Service. • Review long-term funding strategies and future financial needs. (Goal 6) • Evaluate effectiveness of outreach, partnerships, and technology services. (Goals 1 & 3)
2030
• Conduct a community review of library services and emerging needs. (Goal 3) • Identify priorities for future facility, technology, and collection development. (Goals 2 & 5) • Draft and approve the next Plan of Service.
Plan Review and Evaluation
The Norwood Public Library Board of Trustees and Library Director will review progress toward the goals and objectives of this Plan of Service annually. The plan may be adjusted as needed to respond to changing community needs, resources, and opportunities.
Conclusion
The Norwood Public Library remains committed to providing welcoming spaces, relevant resources, and responsive services to meet the evolving needs of the community. This Plan of Service provides a framework to guide the library’s work from 2026–2030 while allowing flexibility to respond to emerging opportunities and challenges. Through thoughtful stewardship, community partnerships, and ongoing evaluation, the library will continue to strengthen its role as a vital resource for learning, connection, and community life.