Bridger public library: 5-Year Strategic plan (2025-2030)


Goal 1: Improve library facilities for accessibility and usability 

  • Objective 1.1 (2025-2030): Ensure full accessibility for all patrons by:
    • Replacing front steps and upgrading the handicap ramp (2025).
    • Redoing the front entry for ADA compliance (2026).
    • Installing a handicapped-accessible bathroom (2027).
  • Objective 1.2 (2025-2030): Expand and improve staff and storage areas:
    • Increase storage space in staff work areas to improve operational efficiency (2025).
    • Add additional storage for library materials and supplies (2029).
  • Objective 1.3 (2028-2030): Enhance public space:
    • Enhance public spaces to serve the community better: additional meeting spaces for community groups and events (2030).

Goal 2: Enhance technology and public services 

  • Objective 2.1 (2025-2026): Improve access to technology and digital resources:
    • Provide patrons with public scanning and color copying options (Ongoing).
    • Ensure continued access to up-to-date technology and digital literacy tools (Ongoing). 
    • Maintain and enhance internet access inside and outside the library to ensure reliable connectivity for all patrons (Ongoing). 
  • Objective 2.2 (2027-2029): Expand digital access to library resources:
    • Increase the availability of e-books and other digital resources to meet growing demand (Ongoing). 
    • Host digital literacy workshops to help patrons develop essential technology skills (2028-2029).
  • Objective 2.3 (2025-2026): Design a website that reflects the library's mission and values by 2026. 
    • Ensure the website features services such as online catalogs, event calendars, and digital resources. 
    • Incorporate accessibility standards to ensure the website is usable for all patrons, including those with disabilities. 
    • Regularly update the website with new content, including local history resources, program information, and community events.

Goal 3: Promote local history, genealogy, and cultural engagement

  • Objective 3.1 (2026-2028): Foster community pride by showcasing local history: 
    • Create a dedicated space to display local history materials and items (2026).
    • Provide access to genealogy resources to support family history research (2026).
    • Develop community programs and events focused on local history and heritage (2027).
  • Objective 3.2 (2027-2030): Engage the community through events and programs:
    • Host annual community events centered on local history and culture (2027-2030).
    • Collaborate with local historical societies and organizations to expand the library's offerings (2028-2030).

Goal 4: expand and diversify the library collection 

  • Objective 4.1 (2025-2030): Continue to build a collection that reflects the community's interests:
    • Add more Montana and local interest items to reflect the region's cultural heritage (Ongoing). 
    • Maintain a robust collection of current and popular adult fiction to serve patrons' diverse interests (Ongoing). 
  • Objective 4.2 (2026-2029): Increase Resources for younger readers:
    • Expand the collection of award-winning children's books to encourage literacy and engagement (2026-2029). 
    • Develop partnerships with local schools to promote the library's resources (2025-2026). 
  • Objective 4.3 (2025-2030): Continue providing materials for special needs: 
    • Maintain the level of large prints titles to support patrons with visual impairments (Ongoing). 

Action plan overview (2025-2030)

Goal 

Action Item

Responsible party

Improve Library Facilities

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Expand and Diversify Collection

 

 

 

 

 

 

Promote Local History and Genealogy

 

 

 

 

 

Enhance Technology and Public Services 

 

  1. Replace the front steps and upgrade handicap ramp. (2025)

  2. Redo front entry for ADA compliance. (2026)

  3. Install handicapped-accessible bathroom. (2027-2030)

  4. Increase storage space for staff. (2025-2026)

     

 

  1. Add Montana and local interest items. Ongoing (2025-2030)

  2. Increase award-winning children's books. (2026-2029)

  3. Maintain adult fiction and large print titles. Ongoing

 

 

  1. Create space for local history displays. (2026)
  2. Provide genealogy resources. (2026)
  3. Host annual community history events. (2027-2030)

 

 

  1. Provide public scanning and color copying options. Ongoing (2025-2030)
  2. Expand digital resources and literacy programs. (2027-2029)
  3. Enhance internet access for all patrons. Ongoing (2025-2030)

Building Committee 

 

Building Committee

 

Building Committee

 

Library Director 

 

 

Collection Development Team 

 

Collection Development Team 

 

Collection Development Team 

 

 

Library Staff & Volunteers 

Library Staff 

Program Coordinator 

 

 

 

IT and Services Department 

 

IT and Services Department 

 

IT and Services Department 

 

 


Building plan (2025-2030)

1. Accessibility and Facility upgrades (2025-2027)

  • Replace the front steps and upgrade the handicap ramp. 
  • Redo the front entry for full ADA compliance. 
  • Install a handicapped-accessible bathroom.

2. Storage and space improvements (2025-2030)

  • Increase storage space for staff and materials. 
  • Add additional community meeting spaces and quiet reading nooks.

3. Technology enhancements (2025-2030)

  • Maintain access to public technology services, including scanning and color copying. 
  • Expand digital resources and provide tech literacy workshops. 
  • Enhance internet access for all patrons. 

Conclusion 

The Bridger Public Library's 5-year strategic plan (2025-2030) focuses on enhancing accessibility, expanding the collection, promoting local history and genealogy, fostering community engagement, and upgrading technology. By pursuing these goals, we aim to ensure that the library remains a vital and welcoming resource for all Clarks Fork Valley community members, promoting lifelong learning and community connections through 2030 and beyond.