Consortium Strategic Plan

Statements of Consortium Vision

These statements clarify core expectations, which together form a vision of a well-functioning MnPALS Consortium. They are complemented by the lists of broad strategies employed to fulfill the vision.

Focus on the User

The consortium and PALS focuses on services and technologies that directly benefit the end user.

Healthy Consortium

The consortium builds strong, collaborative relationships among the member libraries.

Funding

The consortium benefits from sustainable, ongoing funding from the PALS central office and from the services it provides.

Innovative Technologies

The consortium embraces innovative technologies to serve member libraries, and provides them in the most cost-effective manner. The consortium is flexible and capitalizes on the rapidly changing technology environment.

Effective Governance Structure

The consortium provides an effective governance structure that allows full participation by all members in all types of libraries.

Broad Strategies to Accomplish the Consortium Vision

Specific actions to accomplish these strategies are developed by the Executive Committee on an ongoing basis. Tasks may be assigned to PALS staff or to committees or task forces created by the Executive Committee.

Focus on the User

  • Create a comprehensive research environment through a combined suite of services and utilities. The common system will provide comprehensive discovery of books, articles, and digital assets.
  • Ensure that planning for a future ILS focuses on user behavior and needs.

Innovative Technologies

  • Continue investigation of technology to serve member libraries, including library systems, discovery tools, and systems to store digital assets.
  • Offer member-driven discussion of current technology, emerging services, and best practices. For example, the Futures Interest Group (FIG) is capitalizing on the experiences of many member libraries and librarians.
  • Continue to sponsor vendor demonstrations at meetings.
  • Develop and implement systems that are scalable to small institutions.

Funding

  • Use economies of scale to provide services for member libraries.
  • Maintain a strong working relationship with the MnSCU Systems Office, legislators, and other funding sources.
  • Encourage continued entrepreneurial initiatives that provide revenue from libraries, both inside and outside the consortium.

Healthy Consortium

  • Be sensitive to the varying needs of member libraries due to size, funding streams, clientele, and geography.
  • Foster broad involvement by utilizing a variety of communications methods, including electronic lists, wiki, and meetings.
  • Use the skills and expertise of member librarians and PALS Central staff to provide professional development opportunities for staff of member libraries. Examples include User Group workshops, specialized days, specialized training, and FIG discussions.

Effective Governance Structure

  • Continue to find ways to help member librarians participate in governance, despite tight budgets, tight staffing, and geographic distance.