Taskforce wraps up 5-year library plan

A five-year strategic plan for the Neuse Regional Library offers an ambitious path into the future.

A taskforce of residents from Lenoir, Greene and Jones counties began meeting early this year to plan for growth in the community and develop methods to offer better service to patrons. The taskforce was aided by input from library staff members, and consultant Robert Bergen, former librarian, N.C. Central University professor and past president of the State Library Board.

The next step for the long-range plan is to be reviewed and approved by the library's board of directors.

"You have one of the best libraries in the state," Bergen told the taskforce during its initial meeting. "You have a jewel here."

The new plan places a strong focus on children of all ages by emphasizing the need for a variety of materials and information presented in ways to promote basic research skills and aid in completion of homework assignments. Home-schooled youngsters can look forward to even more support through materials, programs and services aimed toward helping them accomplish their goals.

Goals for library branches in Greene and Jones counties include expanding existing library space in those communities.

One of the taskforce's goals is to have the library meet the needs of at least 90 percent of adult library patrons. Accomplishing this will involve monitoring circulation statistics to determine what materials are needed while evaluating and weeding present collections and selecting new materials.

Computer work stations, one of the library's most popular features, could be expanded through an annual evaluation of needs and grants to finance the purchase of additional public computers. New technologies also will be considered as a way to expand access to workstations.

The library will consider offering tours along with classes or tutorials on technology, research and how to use its resources effectively. Classes on writing resumes and evaluating Web sites are included in the five-year plan.