Washington University Libraries Launch Strategic Plan

We are happy to announce that the Washington University Libraries’ new Strategic Plan is now complete and available online.

After incorporating valuable feedback from Washington University faculty, students, and staff, the University Libraries launched the plan on July 1, 2019. It includes a revised mission statement, a set of updated organizational principles, and six strategic priorities, which are supported by goals and action-oriented, measurable objectives. The plan will guide the University Libraries through 2024.

Some Background

Developed over the past 18 months, the new plan was created with input from hundreds of campus stakeholders. The planning process kicked off in fall 2018 with an information-gathering initiative, as the University Libraries reached out to students, faculty, and staff for feedback about library usage and research and instruction needs. Stakeholders were able to share their insights via an online survey, personal interviews, and group focus sessions. The responses received during this stage of the process helped the University Libraries create priorities and establish objectives for the plan.

By spring 2019, a new mission statement and draft of the plan were in place. Following a phase of assessment and feedback during late spring/early summer, objectives for the plan were confirmed, and the plan itself was ready to launch.

What Lies Ahead

In the coming weeks and months, the staff of the University Libraries will focus on the plan’s six priorities—collections, environments, discovery, visibility, partnerships, and innovation—and work diligently to fulfill the plan’s objectives. We will share progress updates with the university community through various outreach methods.

We thank everyone who provided feedback for this important project. As the University Libraries establish a vision for the future, user input is critical. Please contact us at librarystrategicplan@wust.edu if you have questions.