COUNTY News:

February’s Library Board meeting focused on the library’s strategic plan for 2024-2027.

The library began working on this in February 2023; the goals identified within this plan are intended to provide direction for library initiatives and were developed with input from staff and the Library Board.

The strategic plan relies on community input gathered from surveys, conversations, and focus groups during the research phase of the Community Services Integrated Master Plan. 

The plan’s three goals are:

• 1). improve organizational reach and impact;
• 2). improve programs and service delivery; and
• 3). maintain and improve facilities and amenities.

The summary presented by Gwen Kalavaza, Library Manager, highlighted what has been accomplished since the strategic plan updates were initiated last year and what is planned for the future. Needless to say, the library has been busy and will continue to develop exciting and impactful initiatives for the community. 

Strategic plan accomplishments to date:

• The library collaborated with projectY and Creative Startups in hosting “Libraries as Launchpads” beginning in October, 2023.
• The Seed Library continues to grow. Seeds from your own garden or unused seeds are welcome through February 2024.
• Atomicon was expanded in 2023.
• Adult programs are offered twice monthly.
• Printing from wireless devices is now available.
• Mesa Public Library and White Rock Branch Library are open on Sundays.

In Progress:

• An outdoor classroom at Mesa Public Library is in the planning stage.
• Home delivery restart is underway in collaboration with the Senior Center.
• The library website will undergo a refresh, making it more mobile friendly.
• Payment for lost or damaged books via credit card is in the works.
• New furniture is being procured for both Mesa Public Library and White Rock Branch Library.

But remember, the library already has so much to offer! Would a spot of color on your home or office wall help to shake off the winter blues? Check out the art available for circulation from the Mesa Public Library. The art covers many styles and sizes. Art can be checked out at the service desk. Library patrons can check out up to 5 items for a 4 week lending period.

The Library Board’s primary purpose is to receive input from the public and, based on that input, make recommendations to council that support the fulfillment of the library’s mission in the community. Questions and comments about library issues may be emailed to lb@lacnm.us.

Library Board meetings are usually held on the first Monday of the month and open to the public. Agenda packets are made available online the week before a meeting.