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LAU Libraries Strategic Plan II, 2023-2028
The Lebanese American University (LAU) Libraries are at a crossroads. We have a rich history in providing access to information and resources, and we are committed to continuing to serve our community in the years to come. This strategic plan outlines our vision over the next five years, built on three foundational pillars.
Our Strategic Pillars
The following three pillars will guide our work and help us achieve our vision of becoming a world-class library essential to the success of the LAU community and beyond.
Pillar 1: Lifelong Learning
We will make the LAU Libraries a hub for lifelong learning in all its forms—both scholarly and leisurely—for all staff, faculty, and students within the LAU community seeking continual intellectual growth.
Goal 1: Establish opportunities to stimulate a perpetual thirst for learning.
| Actions | KPIs | Resources Needed |
|---|---|---|
| Each semester, select a theme around which programming will be built. | One theme selected each semester. | No additional resources needed. |
| Display a selection of books related to the chosen theme. | Turnover statistics on displayed books. | No additional resources needed. |
| Collaborate with students to offer one event per semester. | Number of events and attendees. | Library “entertainment” budget for minor needs. |
Goal 2: Increase inclusive learning spaces within the LAU Libraries.
| Actions | KPIs | Resources Needed |
|---|---|---|
| Increase the group study spaces in RNL. | Number of group study spaces added. | Budget from facilities improvement. |
| Establish a space for peer-to-peer support for accessible learning on each campus. | One space established on each campus. | Budget from facilities improvement. |
Pillar 2: Research Excellence and Innovation
We will increase faculty engagement with the LAU Libraries and improve research services. We will also enhance data capabilities across the full research data pipeline.
Goal 1: Increase faculty engagement with the LAU Libraries.
| Actions | KPIs |
|---|---|
| Review library liaison assignments annually and follow-up. | Number of interactions between faculty and library liaisons. |
| Participation in every faculty orientation session. | Number of faculty orientations delivered. |
Pillar 3: Connecting Beyond Boundaries
We will bring the value of the LAU Libraries to the broader community through partnerships, subscriptions, and special events.
Goal 1: Revitalize LAU Libraries’ Online Presence.
| Actions | KPIs | Resources Needed |
|---|---|---|
| Select Social Media platforms for presence. | At least one platform selected. | One student worker collaborating with staff. |
| Establish a social media calendar. | Calendar completed by second week of each semester. | Student workers responsible. |
Developing SPII: Our Process
The LAU Libraries Strategic Plan II was the product of a series of three deliberate steps, each guided by the principles of assessment, ideation, and collective commitment.
- Step 1: Assessment – Reviewing achievements and challenges from Strategic Plan I (2019-2023).
- Step 2: Brainstorming & Voting – All-staff sessions to formulate the new strategic pillars.
- Step 3: Goal Setting – Small committees drafted goals and actions for each pillar.
- Step 4: Open Comment – A period of discussion and feedback from staff and the Provost’s office.
Highlights from Strategic Plan I (2019-2023)
- Shift to 100% online periodical subscriptions.
- ~70% of new books purchased as eBooks.
- Automation of the master’s thesis submission process via EDMS.
- Integration of the Writing Center into library spaces.
- Curation of the distinguished Lebanese Collection.