Information and entertainment technologies and delivery systems are changing rapidly, as are patron expectations. KCLS developed a formal collection strategy that both supports the current needs of our communities and cultivates a nimble approach to the changing demands of our users. The Collection Strategy also works to identify and address barriers that inhibit access, to raise awareness of current collection and resources, to increase collection workflow efficiencies and to improve communication about collections across departments.

The KCLS Collection Strategy identifies three priorities: patrons, staff and promotion. Each priority sets a pair of goals representing issues to be addressed. Each goal includes tactics that provide direction for achieving the goals. Tactics are expected to support the KCLS Collection Strategy, be based on demonstrated need, involve collaboration with stakeholders during planning and implementation and be evaluated for effectiveness. Each goal also includes outcomes to ensure progress is being monitored and measured.

• Example of all staff communication
• Summary of Collection Strategy survey results
• Executive summary of stakeholder survey
• Research presentation leading up to the strategy

KCLS anticipates strong outcomes in all three priority areas. Patrons will be able to find and navigate library resources independently, based on a collection and catalog refreshment tactic. Staff will be able to customize collections to community needs; an example tactic being to establish children’s graphic novel sections in all our buildings. Promotion of the collection will result in patrons and staff having increased awareness of available resources, through improved internal and external marketing campaigns.