**TIMMINS PUBLIC LIBRARY NEWS RELEASE**

The Timmins Public Library Board is charting a course for the next three years with the launch of their 2019-2021 Strategic Plan. The new plan outlines the library’s mission, vision, core values and four strategic priorities: (1) Community Engagement, (2) Facilities, (3) Staff and (4) Collections, Resources and Technology.

The Timmins Public Library is a vibrant, dynamic and active community hub with two locations. The staff has been ramping up community engagement, defined in the plan as enhancing the quality of life of residents through outreach, programs and partnerships. The plan also outlines that the board is committed to continuing the transformation into a 21st century library, by expanding digital offerings such as eBooks, eMagazines, downloadable audio books and research databases like Ancestry Library Edition, all while preserving traditional services such as print materials and children’s programming.

Some of the key deliverables summarized in the plan include increasing the library’s visibility in the community by promoting it as a community hub and gathering place, providing inclusive and diverse programming, increasing membership, maintaining safety and security, staff development, improving both physical and digital collections and educating the public on how to effectively use library resources.

The Library Board has been working on this initiative for over 18 months to present a plan that the community can support. Through surveys and discussions, library patrons, board, staff, partners and non-library users were able to provide input and comments. More than 500 individuals responded to the public survey and the plan reflects the demands of our community. Newly elected Board Chair Noella Rinaldo is looking forward to achieving the vision outlined for the library – to be the community leader in providing resources and knowledge sharing opportunities. “The community has been a big part in the development of the Strategic Plan and will be key to the ultimate success of the plan.” said Rinaldo.

The plan will be released to the public at 6:00 p.m. on Monday February 25th at the Main Library. The launch event is the perfect opportunity for the entire community to come together and discover what their library has in store for them. Tours of the main branch will be offered and refreshments will be served.

Timmins Public Library resources are accessible in multiple ways: on site at two locations, online and on the move at community events throughout the city. A visit will get you thinking!

The 2019-2021 Strategic Plan is available on the library’s website at tpl.timmins.ca in English, French and Cree thanks to the Timmins Venture Centre. It was prepared with the assistance of Campbell Consulting and Ontario Library Service – North.

Filed under: Local News