Ensure the Library provides a welcoming environment and access to all it has to offer for every member of the community

1. Deliver safe and welcoming experiences for both staff and customers.
   
   1. Library HR, Library Chief Equity & Inclusion Officer and the Senior Leadership Team will evaluate current hiring and staffing policies, procedures, and practices that are within the Library’s control to provide a workforce that reflects the community it serves, creating a more comfortable and authentic environment for our customers.       
   2. CML will develop a consistent approach to training, policies, practices and procedures to maintain safe environments at all Library locations.
   3. CML will update standards and equip staff to provide a consistent and welcoming experience for all customers across all locations.
2. Remove barriers and increase access to Library programs, collections, and services.
   
   1. Library Marketing, Communications,& Digital Experiences will expand and diversify strategies to increase awareness and utilization of Library collections, programs, and resources across cultures and demographics.
   2. CML will develop a Language Access Plan and provide translated promotional materials, programs, and services for identified non-English speaking communities in Mecklenburg County.
   3. Library Outreach will expand services and programs to reach individuals and communities in library deserts and underserved areas, driving community awareness of library offerings.
3. Deliver an improved and expanded physical footprint of Library locations throughout Mecklenburg County.
   
   1. Support the opening and operations of new or renovated facilities already planned, including technology and facility support, programs, collections, public awareness, and operational preparations.       
   2. Maintain a welcoming and safe environment in all facilities through regular assessment, upgrades, and improvements.

Create opportunities for engagement and growth, learning new skills and pursuing passions to build a stronger and more connected community.

1. Protect and promote intellectual freedom.
   1. CML will embed intellectual freedom principles into organizational policies, staff training, and service/program/collection development.
   2. CML will actively engage with local, regional, and national audiences to educate, represent, and advocate for intellectual freedom in public libraries everywhere, and in Mecklenburg County specifically.
2. Foster a culture of connection that strengthens the community’s social fabric and promotes a democratic society.
   1. CML will provide opportunities for networking, community building, and social development across Mecklenburg County.
   2. CML will elevate WelcomeCLT to a system wide initiative, creating an environment where individuals new to the county, the state, or the country are able to connect with the community and participate in society.
3. Support individual growth and learning through Library collections, programs and resources.
   1. CML will offer unique experiences that support milestones across age groups and provide meaningful services and programs for identified audiences.       
   2. Members of the community will find support for individual learning and skill building goals through collections, programs, technology, and services at all physical and virtual Libraries.

Strengthen internal resources and capacity to support planned growth and ensure the sustainable impact of Charlotte Mecklenburg Library.

1. Invest in staff growth and development, providing efficient and effective technology, and fostering a supportive and dynamic culture that empowers employees.
   1. CML will create a structure for employee learning and development, including but not limited to pathways for growth and advancement, an accessible database of internal and external offerings, and specialized support for managers and supervisors.
   2. CML will develop robust training programs and support to guarantee all staff have the necessary knowledge and skills to meet customer needs.
2. Optimize resource management, funding sources, organizational capacity and operational efficiency through technology and process improvements.
   1. Library IT will collaborate with Mecklenburg County IT to identify service delivery and process improvements, structuring Library services to update technology support across the enterprise.
   2. Library HR will collaborate with Mecklenburg County HR to identify service delivery and process improvements, structuring Library services to align with Mecklenburg County while supporting the library operating model.
   3. Library Administration will implement staffing study recommendations to address staffing shortfalls, maintaining and optimizing service delivery in all locations.
3. Recruit and attract a diverse Board of Trustees and volunteer base who bring a variety of talents and perspectives to broaden community impact.
   1. Library CEO and Leadership Team will structure onboarding, education, and expectations for Board of Trustee members to equip Trustees with the skills and knowledge to engage with and be ambassadors for the Library.
   2. CML will expand its volunteer base to engage the community and attract a variety of talents and skills. 

Deliver Charlotte Mecklenburg Library’s flagship location in Uptown Charlotte as a destination for local, regional, and national engagement.

1. Actualize the public commons strategy to cement Main Library’s role as a destination for all.
   1. Library staff will develop robust partnerships to deliver services that position Main as a responsive destination for community needs, resources, and support.
   2. The Library and the Foundation will collaborate to create and deliver signature events designed to engage non-traditional users, fostering greater community connection and broadening the Library’s reach.
2. Successfully create an open and welcoming environment, bridging the demands of the unique Uptown location.
   1. Through an Uptown campus comprised of Main Library and ImaginOn, CML will establish intentional pathways to Library programs and services for every demographic or individual customer.
   2. Archives and Special Collections will open and operate the Robinson-Spangler Carolina Room (RSCR) as the flagship location for research, educational resources, and programs related to local history and culture.
   3. Library Administration will create a structured operating model for Main Library to build an exceptional day to day experience for customers while preparing logistical structures to support theater operations, events support, and other vendor relationships.