The Mission Statement, Vision, and Goals and Objectives of the Betsie Valley District Library

Betsie Valley District Library Mission Statement, Vision, and Goals and Objectives, updated and approved Dec. 11, 2025

Mission Statement:
The Betsie Valley District Library is a strong community partner providing programs, educational materials, technology, and services that bring people together, foster creativity, and encourage lifelong learning. We strive to enrich lives and prepare for an ever-changing future.

Our Vision
To be the welcoming heart of our community where all come to learn, discover, create, and connect.

Library roles:
Role #1:  Popular materials library: Feature current, high demand materials in a variety of formats for  all ages.

Role #2:  Reference library: Actively provide timely, accurate and useful information and technology for community residents.

Role #3: Open doors to learning: Encourage children to develop an interest in reading and learning through services for children and for parents and children together.

Role #4: Community activities center: Serve as a focal point for programs, meetings and services for non-profit organizations.

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES
A. Building and Equipment    
      Goal #1:  Provide an attractive and accessible library facility with adequate space for its

                      resources, staff, and patrons.
       Objective 1.1:  Monitor library facilities for space needs and facility upkeep.

      Goal #2:  Keep abreast of new technology and apply where feasible.
      Objective 2.1:  Maintain an integrated system to manage online catalog and circulation                                    system.
      Objective 2.2:  Maintain and manage infrastructure for Internet services.
      Objective 2.3:  Provide computers for patron use.

B. Resources
     Goal #3:   Provide and maintain an adequate reference collection - both physical and                                digital.
     Objective 3.1:  Selectively expand the reference collection.

     Goal #4:   Provide and maintain a balanced collection of kits, newspapers, magazines,                              books, etc.
                      for the information, recreation and education of patrons.

     Objective 4.1:  Provide a balanced collection while at the same time monitoring it for c                                     current interest and needs.
     Objective 4.2:  Weed materials where necessary to maximize the use of available space.
 
     Goal #5:  Actively work with local schools and community organizations to create                                    awareness of the library.
         Objective 5.1:   Present information to all area schools about our community library.
         Objective 5.2:   Annually meet with school media coordinators.
         Objective 5.3:   Be available to local organizations to make presentations whenever                                          requested.
         Objective 5.4:   Utilize public communications for community awareness of the library                                        and its materials.
C. Personnel
         Goal #6:  Employ knowledgeable personnel to staff the library.
         Objective 6.1:   As population increases and funding allows,  add additional staff  to  

                                  provide  necessary service.
         Objective 6.2:   Expand and regularly review a policy manual to cover established                                              procedures.
         Objective 6.3:   Provide for continuing education opportunities and development as                                            needed to support staff and board.                        

D. Services 
         Goal #7:  Provide a friendly, welcoming atmosphere in the library.
         Objective 7.1:  Educate staff and volunteers to have an open, helpful attitude at all t                                         times and to present a professional appearance to users.

         Objective 7.2: Train staff in necessary computer skills to manage the library resources                                     and help patrons.
    
         Goal #8:  Promote active community interest by providing library programs and                                         development opportunities.
         Objective 8.1:  Invite suggestions and accept criticisms from users.
         Objective 8.2:  Promote library resources and activities through ongoing publicity.

         Goal #9:   Establish, review, and prioritize library activities, services, and programs.
         Objective 9.1: Review and prioritize current library services and programs.
 
         Goal #10: Gather and evaluate demographic information about the community.

         Objective 10.1: Adjust library services based upon the outcome of gathered                                                      demographic information.
    
Finance
         Goal #11:  Maintain a permanent funding base for the library.

        Objective 11.1: Manage necessary tasks that protect the .3 millage that has been                                             established and passed by township voters and qualifies the library for                                     state aid.
        Objective 11.2:  Monitor circumstances that could affect penal fines and state aid.
        Objective 11.3:  Seek and receive private contributions to supplement funds for                                                  expenditures for library materials.                            
        Objective 11.4:  Pursue support for funding and materials through grant applications.
        Objective 11.5:  Enlarge District Library boundaries by encouraging additional                                                    governmental units to join the District Library.
   Objective 11.6:  Seek a renewal millage of at least .3 mill to assure a funding base for state                               aid eligibility.