REPORT TO BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES
SUBJECT
Title
Update on the Status of the Library Strategic Plan and Facilities Master Plan and Next Steps
Report
BACKGROUND
In 2025, the Santa Clara Public Library ("Library") completed drafts of two key planning studies, the Library Strategic Plan ("Strategic Plan") and the Library Facilities Master Plan ("Facilities Master Plan"). The Strategic Plan, based on extensive community engagement and data analysis, provides a clear 3-year vision of operational and service priorities. The Strategic Plan includes specific and actionable initiatives to guide staff work towards effective achievement of goals. The Facilities Master Plan, also based on strong community engagement and data analysis as well as professional facility and community assessments, provides a 20-year plan to guide the maintenance and capital investment decisions for the Library system. These plans were reviewed with Mayor and Council in a 2x2x3, a series of small reviews supported by Library staff and the City Manager's Office. These sessions allowed a deeper review of the plans by Council, addressing questions and feedback, and incorporating recommended updates.
DISCUSSION
The final drafts of the Strategic Plan and Facilities Master Plan were agendized for Council review and recommended for approval on February 10, 2026. This report was originally drafted prior to Council review, and the Board will receive this report following Council review on February 12, 2026 at a special meeting. Outcomes of Council's review on February 10, 2026 will be shared with the Board by the City Librarian during the special meeting. If approved, the Library will proceed with intention towards realizing the outcomes envisioned in the Strategic Plan. The recommendations in the Facilities Master Plan, if approved, provide a 20-year, long-term, data-informed guide for the maintenance and renovation needs of Library facilities. It further provides specific recommendation...
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