INTRODUCTION & CONTEXT
The Nashua Public Library (NPL) is lacated in the city of Nashua in Hillsborough County, New
Hampshire, serving a population of approximately 90,000. NPL has a $7,000 square foot facility
along the Nashua River, and, prior to the pandemic (2019}, circulated over 429,000 items
annually. Nashua’s population is increasingly diverse, particularly in the youngest generation,
with over 44% of Nashua school students reported as nonwhite and over 50 languages
represented.
This plan represents the overall strategy for NPL over the next three years and is presented to
the Board of Trustees for approval in January 2022. Upon approval, library staff will finalize an
activity plan to support the overall strategy and evolve while working toward goals. Staff will
regularly review progress toward meeting plan goals and report to the Board.
The planning process was inclusive and enlightening. NPL remains committed to the community
and the core library services they provide. We are excited about the focus this plan will bring
through 2024. The Board met to discuss and review current library offerings and to bring clarity
about the future direction of services, programs, and facilities. The library hopes this plan
inspires growth and change over the next three-plus years that lead to increased impact in the
community.
The library engaged in a strategic planning process with assistance from consultant Amanda E.
Standerfer from Fast Forward Libraries. The Planning Team included:
e Mary Ellen Carter, Information Services Librarian
e Katharine Gatcomb, Supervisor, Youth Services
e Jenn Hosking, Assistant Director
e Elena Kolbenson, Office Manager
e Padmaja Kunapareddy, Trustee
e Linda Laflamme, Trustee
¢ Carol Luers Eyman, Programming and Marketing Librarian
® Jennifer McCormack, Director
The Planning Team met several times during the strategic planning process starting in July 2021
to ensure momentum and give input on various aspects of the process. The Planning Team
played a vital role in developing the community survey and final plan documents.
Nashua Public Library
Strategic Plan — 2022-2024 ?
