Good planning is vitally important to the life of an organization. What model of planning would help theological libraries? We are embedded in the field of theological education, which is experiencing a great amount of change. Our greatest commodity, information, is growing exponentially as technology and access develop at a rapid pace. Strategic planning processes, while extremely popular, yield static plans that stay in place for a specified time period. With this model of planning, there is a risk that it becomes outdated and obsolete before its expiration date. Is there a better way?
Integrated library planning begins with a strategic planning process; but once set in motion, it becomes a dynamic, living plan. The planning model presented in this session is an adaptation of integrated business planning models that have surfaced in corporate industries over the past decade. First implemented in a small theological library, this model is adaptable and scalable for theological and academic libraries of any size. The presentation will include suggestions for implementation and examples from its use at Schaff Library, Lancaster Theological Seminary.
