Strategic Planning and Catalysts for New Generation of Libraries

Abstract

Strategic Planning in Libraries is absolutely necessary in view of the present day rapid advances in technology. Most libraries are in the area of education and research, in a college or University supporting both teaching and research. Strategic planning should be a cooperative effort with inputs from administration, the computer center personnel, faculty, students and the library staff. Role of librarian is increasingly important during the strategic planning, as educator and leader within the process, whether the process happens within the library or in the Institution. The strategic plan developed should offer a pattern that integrates major goals, policies and actions of the institution into a cohesive whole. It should help allocate resources, capitalize on relative strengths and mitigate against weaknesses etc. This paper details well defined strategic plans for the library to set a clear direction, allow looking at the strengths and weaknesses with the environment, and devoting resources to strengthen support in the core areas of teaching and research.