Central Library Services Plan

Mohawk Valley Library System

Amsterdam Free Library

Central Library Services Plan, 2025 – 2026

Goals, Intended Results & Evaluation Methods

Element 1: Resource Sharing

Goal: Library users within the MVLS service area have access to a wide variety of materials in various formats through Central Library resources and services.

Intended Result: Library users have access to the resources that they need.  Libraries can reap economic savings through coordinated purchases and resource sharing.

Evaluation Method: Circulation statistics, request statistics, member surveys

Initiatives:

1. Central Library Aid supports system-wide access to the shared Overdrive collections. In 2025, we will continue the practice of using CLA to fund the Overdrive access fee, content, and magazines.

2. CLA provides for the development and piloting of additional, new resources and services as determined by the member libraries.

3. CLA supports the InDemand shared collection that provides on-site and request-based access to high demand library books.

Element 2: Special Client Groups – Not applicable to Central Library Plans

Element 3: Professional Development

Goal: Library users within MVLS are served by library staff and trustees who are well versed in library operations, management and governance best practices including youth services, adult services, outreach, technology.

Intended Result: Member Libraries provide up-to-date library service through well-managed and well-governed organizations.

Evaluation Method: Member surveys and evaluations

Initiatives:

1. Central Library Aid supports professional development and continuing education for member library staff and trustees. Activities will include acquisition of training resources, live or virtual workshops and events, and registration and travel costs to facilitate wide participation.

Elements 4 – 10 – Not applicable to Central Library Plans