By NEAL RENTZ
The Pound Ridge Library Board of Trustees has updated the library’s long-range plan.
The plan, which was unanimously approved by the board when it met Dec. 17, runs through 2026.
Long Range Planning Committee Chair Michael Clark told his colleagues at last month’s meeting, “we felt we should be updating it more frequently than in the past.” The plan should be examined by the board of trustees every year, he said, rather than every three years.
The committee did the work to update the plan.
The plan stated that the library’s mission “is to provide inclusive access to a wide range of materials, information, programs, and services. We are committed to offering versatile public spaces that inspire learning, creativity, and connection, ensuring a safe and welcoming environment for all residents of the Town of Pound Ridge.”
The plan outlined the vision of the library, which it stated: “is the thriving cultural and intellectual heart of our community. Responsive, innovative and forward-thinking, the library empowers individuals and groups of all ages with access to information, technology, cultural enrichment, and entertainment in a vibrant, engaging environment where possibilities are endless.”
The plan stated that the library’s values included respect and equity, optimizing internal fiscal controls, knowledge and dialogue, stewardship, environmental responsibility and community-centered service.
It also outlined potential projects that could be pursued by the board, including expanding the parking lot, exploring Americans with Disabilities Act-compliant solutions such as an alternate back door entrance and a wheelchair ramp, and to continue to explore ways to beautify the facility, such as landscaping.
In the area of technology and technical equipment, some of the possible efforts could include such initiatives as optimizing communication and social media; continuing and enhancing the library’s website and Facebook and Instagram sites; continuing regular support and announcements through local media such as The Recorder and the town’s recreation department flyer; exploring programs that would provide community input and encourage involvement and further developing and enhancing the library’s collections.
Annual report
Also at the meeting, board president, Valerie Nelson, read her “2024 Letter to the Community.” ,
Nelson said she was sharing the library’s annual report on behalf of the board of trustees.
“We continue to be amazed at the dedication of our staff and volunteers and the support from our community as we strive to make the library a place where everyone wants to be,” she said.
Nelson said the board is “committed to ensuring fiscal responsibility. Prudent financial management continues to allow us to stay within our budget and enhance our services to the community.”
In 2024, the library provided programs geared toward the whole community, Nelson said.
“No matter what your interests are you can find a program that will keep you engaged, teach you something new or entertain you,” she said.
In 2024, the library was committed to enhancing the Children’s Room, Nelson said.
The library continued its commitment to collaborate with community organizations, local businesses and town officials, Nelson said.
Nelson praised the library’s volunteers.
“Our library is so fortunate to have volunteers who value the library as much as we do,” she said. “We could not do what we do every day without your efforts and we applaud and thank you for giving your time to this place that is even more amazing because of you.”
Nelson also thanked the Library Foundation.
“They continuously support our efforts through grants so that we can continue to be the community library that we strive to be,” she said.
Nelson also thanked the library’s staff “for all they have done this past year to ensure that our mission and vision is realized.”
Read Nelson’s full letter at poundridgelibrary.org