Central Islip Public Library Long Range Plan

Last Updated Date
Policy Type

CENTRAL ISLIP PUBLIC LIBRARY
LONG RANGE PLAN OF SERVICE
2026–2030

 

The Central Islip Public Library, located at 33 Hawthorne Avenue in Central Islip, New York, was founded in 1952, and in 1958 was chartered by the Board of Regents of New York and the New York Department of Education to serve the residents of the Central Islip School District. The Library has an approximate service population of 39,000 residents.

MISSION STATEMENT

The Central Islip Public Library is committed to providing equitable access to information, technology, and cultural experiences. We support lifelong learning and literacy at all ages, while maintaining a welcoming space for community connection and discovery through excellent service.


GOALS AND STRATEGIES

I. PROGRAMS AND SERVICES

Goal: Provide dynamic and inclusive programs and services that engage, educate, and inspire our community.

Objectives and Strategies:

•    Provide a variety of high quality programming for all ages that reflects community interests, cultures, and current trends.
•    Expand outreach efforts to underserved populations, including seniors, non-English speakers, and new residents.
•    Use direct community feedback and ongoing feedback survey to guide and evaluate programs and services. 
•    Enhance visibility through marketing, social media, and community presence.
•    Increase number of Library card holders. 

II. COLLECTION DEVELOPMENT

Goal: Maintain a current, diverse and accessible collection that supports educational, recreational, and cultural enrichment.

Objectives and Strategies:

  • Strengthen the library’s collection in multiple formats, including print, audio, and digital.
  • Ensure materials reflect the diversity of the Central Islip community and include multilingual resources.
  • Expand promotion of online databases, eBooks, and streaming platforms.
  • Develop and preserve Local and Black History Collections. 

III. TECHNOLOGY

Goal: Ensure equitable access to current technology and develop digital literacy skills across all age groups.

Objectives and Strategies:

•    Continue upgrading hardware, software, and Wi-Fi infrastructure throughout the building.
•    Maintain community access to essential technology such as computers, printers, and scanners. 
•    Offer training for patrons on emerging technology, devices, and digital safety.
•    Support staff technology training.
•    Develop Makerspaces offering hands-on learning for children, teens, and adults.

IV. EDUCATIONAL AND COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS

Goal: Strengthen collaboration with schools and community partners to support academic and lifelong learning success for all.

Objectives and Strategies:

•    Collaborate with the Central Islip School District to align available resources with student needs. 
•    Promote the library’s online homework help programs and highlight online resources for students and parents.
•    Continue promoting early literacy initiatives and family learning programs.
•    Partner with local organizations to address community needs such as digital literacy and ESL education.
•    Increase library participation at community events, open houses, and civic meetings.

V. FACILITIES MANAGEMENT

Goal: Provide and maintain a safe, accessible and comfortable space that supports learning, collaboration, and community connection.

Objectives and Strategies:

•    Continually assess and plan for ongoing building maintenance and modernization needs.
•    Continue to improve signage for clarity and ease of navigation.
•    Integrate environmentally sustainable practices into building operations and upgrades.
•    Maintain interiors to improve comfort and visual appeal.
•    Review and evaluate security and safety measures regularly. 

VI. SUSTAINABILTY

Goal: The Library will continue to incorporate the Triple-Bottom-Line theory: to be environmentally sound, economically feasible, and socially equitable, into all aspects of its operations.

Objectives and Strategies:

•    Implementing environmentally sound practices, including reducing energy use, minimizing waste, and selecting sustainable materials whenever possible.
•    Ensuring economic feasibility through responsible budgeting, long-term financial planning, and resource-efficient operations that support ongoing fiscal stability.
•    Promoting social equity by providing inclusive services and supporting programs that welcome and represent all members of the community.
•    Regularly evaluating sustainability initiatives to ensure continuous improvement and alignment with community needs.

VII. ORGANIZATIONAL EXCELLENCE

Goal: Build a strong, adaptable organization through staff development, community feedback, and responsible resource management.

Objectives and Strategies:

  • Encourage professional development opportunities for all staff.
  • Use direct patron feedback and community survey to guide services.
  • Continue transparent and responsible fiscal management.
  • Strengthen internal communication and collaboration across departments.
  • Foster a workplace culture that values continuing education, collaboration and providing excellent service to the community.

 

 

 

 

Adopted by the Central Islip Board of Trustees 1.28.2026


 

 

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