Strategic Plan for the Utah Library Association 2003-2006



MISSION STATEMENT OF THE UTAH LIBRARY ASSOCIATION



The mission of the Utah Library Association is to serve the professional development and educational needs of its members and to provide leadership and direction in developing and improving library and information services in the state.
Adopted 2/10/94

Goals and proposed actions for the Association:



1. ULA will provide and foster opportunities for learning and continuing education.

A. ULA will sponsor an annual conference, support at least two regional conferences, a Great Issues Forum per year and other workshops as deemed beneficial to the membership. Programs will be developed that address the needs and interests of all types of libraries.

B. ULA will communicate learning opportunities available to the library community and regularly publish information to the ULA listserv, web page, and newsletter.


2. ULA will advocate high quality libraries and librarianship.

A. ULA will provide guidance for individual libraries to promote relationships with the general public.

B. ULA will increase efforts and allocate resources to support effective legislative action on both the local and federal level for issues of importance to libraries. Priorities will include:
  • Continued promotion of resource sharing.
  • Support for programs that will increase funding for libraries.
C. ULA will provide on the web information for new members to build awareness of the Association's mission and projects and to encourage full participation in Association activities. In addition, a mentoring program will be implemented to link experienced members with those new to ULA.

D. ULA will develop a network of information and resources in electronic format to support access to issues and ideas of importance for libraries.

E. ULA will work with appropriate agencies to improve compensation for all library employees.


3. ULA will foster mutual support and encourage cooperation and collaboration among libraries and library staff.

A. ULA will develop and maintain an electronic listserv to facilitate communication, cooperation, and collaboration among libraries and library staff. B. ULA will regularly assess the interests and concerns of the membership to best respond to needs and identify opportunities for projects and programs. C. ULA will develop a mentoring program that fosters networking within Utah libraries.


4. ULA will support and defend intellectual freedom and promote access to information for all.

A. ULA will maintain a strong and effective Intellectual Freedom Committee to provide leadership and support in the defense of first amendment principles.

B. ULA will maintain a strong connection to national organizations which support intellectual freedom such as the American Library Association and the Freedom to Read Foundation.

C. ULA will assess trends in intellectual freedom issues and provide regular programs and information to equip libraries to deal effectively with timely issues.


5. ULA will help enable members to effectively meet the challenge of change in the workplace.

A. ULA will use the newsletter, electronic communication, and conference programs to discuss and inform ULA members of learning opportunities and resources available to effectively address changing technologies.


6. ULA will strengthen the library community through strategic alliances.

A. ULA will continue to cultivate strong and positive relationships with national and related library organizations such as ALA, MPLA, ARL, IFC, UELMA, UALC, and the Utah State Library.

B. ULA will develop an expanded network of library advocates to support local and statewide efforts to improve library service.


7. ULA will promote effective communication throughout the association.

A. ULA will continue to maintain and improve the Association home page and communication through appropriate listservs.

B. ULA will provide a regular newsletter which is available and distributed in electronic format for all members.


8. ULA will encourage collegiality and social exchange.

A. ULA leadership will ensure that regular opportunities for social activities are planned throughout the year and throughout the state to involve all members.

B. ULA will recognize outstanding achievement or service to libraries by recognizing appropriate persons through ULA awards.


9. ULA will ensure the organizational and financial stability and responsiveness of its Association.

A. ULA will have an Executive Secretary/Treasurer to monitor and insure the financial stability of the organization.

B. The Past President and current President of ULA will be responsible for updating and refining the ongoing strategic plan and ensuring that its directions are supported through the specific plans and programs of the Association. Make the strategic plan a part of the annual officer training.

C. ULA will strive to maintain an appropriate and prudent fund balance while ensuring levels of expenditure that actively address Association priorities.

D. ULA will clearly meet all legal and financial requirements for a nonprofit organization. ULA will maintain a timely manual of policies, procedures, and practices for the Association and will make this information available in electronic format.

E. Round Tables, Sections, and Committees of the organization will set goals annually and provide written reports on progress at the end of each year. Goals and reports will be passed to incoming officers.