Libraries ACT has unveiled key themes to shape its next 10-year strategy to develop more detailed programs of activities, improvements, and innovations.
Launching its IMAGiNE 2030: What We Heard Report, Libraries ACT said the Report was the result of months of community engagement activities and would inform its Imagining 2030 Strategy.
“From 14 January 2020 to 30 June 2022, Libraries ACT undertook a co-design approach to develop a strategy to guide the future of our libraries,” it said.
“During the co-design period we received more than 7,000 pieces of feedback in total.
“Feedback was sought through a wide range of engagement activities including online and in person workshops, one-on-one interviews, the ACT Government’s engagement platform YourSay and interactive displays at all library branches.”
The Library said the project initially commenced in January 2020 but was postponed twice due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
It said the consultation targeted past, current and potential library members as well as the broader community and focused on understanding the community’s desires for public libraries.
“In total we engaged with approximately 400 individuals, Government and non-government organisations and representative groups,” it said.
“You told us it’s important that everyone in the community can easily access library services, collections and programs that engage the whole community.
“We heard there’s opportunities for better collaboration across our diverse network to extend our service offering, activate lifelong learning and have a greater impact on the community.”
The Library said the feedback highlighted the importance of keeping libraries free of direct charge and ensuring visitors felt safe when interacting with the library services – including onsite, online and outreach services.
It said suggestions for increased collaboration included engaging the local community on which services were prioritised and creating new pathways with community services, groups and businesses.
On integrating online, onsite and outreach services and experiences, Libraries ACT said respondents felt that getting the basics right to meet current service expectations and match global standards was key.
“All the contributions insights and learnings will be translated into the aspiration, purpose, commitments and key priorities of the Strategy,” it said.
“This will provide a firm foundation from which Libraries ACT can develop their more detailed future frameworks, plans and programs of activity, that involve an ongoing codesign approach with the community, stakeholders and staff.”
Libraries ACT’s three-page Report can be accessed at this PS News link.
