The Livingston Public Library is adapting to changing user needs and societal shifts while maintaining core services, noted Amy Babcock, its director, as she shared insights on intellectual freedom, literacy and community engagement last weekduring a Zoom presentation with the Livingston League of Women Voters (LWV).The discussion focused on the library’s new Strategic Plan for 2024-28 and its mission, the “Core values of community, compassion, connection and creativity.”The plan outlines the Livingston library’s vision, mission and values as it aims to provide equal access and intellectual freedom for all, while fostering growth and a creative environment. The Strategic Plan, created by staff and tru stees, was a y ear in the making, using data gathered through surveys, focus groups, andmeetings with the community.Babcock has been the library director for ten years, overseeing increased circulation, expanding programming, modernizing services, and renovations both inside and outside, said Amy Ipp, co-president of the LWV. “She believes that public libraries are at the heart of a community, and that advocacy, outreach and community partnerships are fundamental to the library’s long term success.”Providing equal access and the pursuit of intellectual freedom is a core value, Babcock said, and one of the most challenging aspects of library work. “Intellectual freedom is under attack at local, state and national levels... we’re a library, we endorse literacy, learning and community engagement... .these are things that will carry us well into the future.”Four PrioritiesThe library’s priorities fit in four categories, Babcock explained. The first includes fine-tuning core services, which include print, media and digital content; strengthening collections that serve diverse segments of the community; and using the data collected to ensure that new programming resonates with the community.A second priority is to strengthen the library’s communication and connection with the community. It will include new marketing and communications plans for awareness ; growing partnerships with community groups; and ensuring access to services and programs in languages other than English.A third focus is for the library to meet the needs of new and currently under-served members of the community. This includes expanding the English Language Learning (ELL) program and supporting ways to make the staff and volunteers reflect the town’s demographics.The fourth priority is to ensure vibrant interior and exterior spaces - expanding study, small group meetcontinued on Page A-6) ing and work areas; enhancing the youth space; and improving exterior spaces.“I found that Livingston is open to new ideas ...
