Palatine Library Announces New Strategic Plan and Discusses Future Funding

Palatine Public Library District announces a new Strategic Plan that represents the overall plan for the Library through 2021. Throughout the planning process, the goal for the Board and Library Staff was to produce a new vision, mission, and strategic initiatives. The plan focuses on Library strengths and inspires growth and change for the future, while remaining committed to fiscal responsibility.

The Board and Library Staff spent time listening to resident needs and reviewing data and comments from recent community surveys and focus groups. Residents clearly said they want more: more great service, more diverse materials, and more community engagement. Residents also stressed the importance of continuing stewardship of taxpayer resources. The new Strategic Plan identifies three essential areas of focus for the future: Experience, Engagement, and Endurance. For full details about the plan, visit https://www.palatinelibrary.org/about/budget-planning/strategic-plan.

The Board has also reviewed the updated financial and facilities plans. The Main Library will need $5.8 million in capital repairs in the next six years to replace its aging, leaking roof, inefficient lighting, and failing HVAC systems. The current reserve funds will not fully cover those costs.

In order to meet expenses and do more, the Library Board is examining funding options. During the regular Board meeting on December 12, at 7:00 p.m., the Board will discuss and decide on a possible referendum to put forward to the voters for increasing the Library's operating rate.

The vision of Palatine Public Library District is to inspire connection, curiosity, and joy. The District serves approximately 90,000 residents predominantly within the communities of Palatine and Hoffman Estates.