Library consultant

THE LIBRARY PLANNING PROCESS
A Library Planner follows a methodology framework to discover service planning, facility and organizational requirements. This methodology begins with a planning time line, including an orientation of requires for a technology, service or architectural building project.
It is important to anchor a library planning study to a series of initiatives. Based upon previous planning work, the library planner examines the library community, its culture and environment. The library planner, example - [http://encyclopedia.farlex.com/Metcalf,+Keyes+(Dewitt)">Metcalf, Keyes (Dewitt)]develops measurable objectives and considers the efficiency of organization. Usually, a team of consultants analyzes existing conditions to meet a desired performance level. He/she runs activities to uncover public input, fostering a creative approach; an approach that benefits the variety and diversity that the library or system serves.
The following is a quick outline of ACA's methodology.
• Understand the current situation. What is the Library? A community, an organization. How do we build a better facility in regards to programming efficiency and management of services? What has been identified in previous building activities as well as the studies and reports available?
•Understand the desired performance. How can we streamline the library technology in light of the present demographic, operational/organizational, economic / financial, system resources and political situation?
• Determine the gaps between current and desired outcomes. How will we determine what is an efficient academic, public or special library that is flexible and responsive to the communities needs?
• Create a measurement framework by determining enablers and barriers How can we measure services and determine a formula for future growth?
Library Planners should address these key issues, including but not limited to:
o Service delivery models
o Planning methodologies
o Materials and equipment selection and acquisition
o Best practices within the town
o Best practices from outside the system
o Funding sources (public and private)
o Identify new sources for additional funding
o Resource specialization and sharing of expertise
o Formula for growth and change
o Resource assessment of skills, and areas where flexibility could be employed
o Shared service points
o Establish “best practices” with recommendations

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