Westfield Memorial Library Launches Strategic Planning Process

Three-year plan aims to guide library's priorities and community impact through 2029.

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

The Westfield Memorial Library in New Jersey has launched a comprehensive three-year strategic planning process to help guide the library's priorities, services, and community impact through 2029. The library has engaged Library Logic Consulting, a national firm specializing in public library planning, to work closely with library leadership, staff, trustees, and community stakeholders to develop a clear, actionable roadmap for the next three years.

Why it matters

As a cornerstone of learning, culture, and civic engagement in Westfield, the library's strategic plan will help ensure it continues to be responsive, innovative, and welcoming to all community members. The planning process will solicit input from residents, library cardholders, local businesses, educators, and partners to align the library's resources and services with the evolving needs of the community.

The details

The strategic planning process will include community surveys, focus groups, stakeholder interviews, and other opportunities for public input. Key areas of focus are expected to include collection development, technology access, programming for all ages, facility improvements, community partnerships, and long-term financial sustainability. The completed plan is expected to be presented to the Library's Board of Trustees for adoption in June.

  • The strategic planning process will begin this spring.
  • Opportunities for public input will be announced in the coming weeks.
  • The completed plan is expected to be presented to the Library's Board of Trustees for adoption in June.

The players

Westfield Memorial Library

A public library dedicated to providing free and equitable access to information, resources, and cultural experiences for residents of Westfield and the surrounding community.

Library Logic Consulting

A nationally respected firm specializing in public library planning and community engagement.

Allen McGinley

The Library Director of Westfield Memorial Library.

Chelsea Coleman

The co-founder of Library Logic Consulting.

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What they’re saying

“Strategic planning bridges a library's present and potential, aligning resources and services with the people they serve. The best libraries are built with their communities, not just for them. We're honored to partner with Westfield Memorial Library to craft a vision reflecting its vibrant town's needs and values.”

— Chelsea Coleman, Co-founder, Library Logic Consulting (Patch.com)

“As a public library, our responsibility is to listen first. This strategic plan will reflect the voices, values, and aspirations of our community. We want to ensure that Westfield Memorial Library continues to be responsive, innovative, and welcoming to all.”

— Allen McGinley, Library Director, Westfield Memorial Library (Patch.com)

What’s next

Opportunities for public input on the strategic planning process will be announced in the coming weeks.

The takeaway

Westfield Memorial Library's strategic planning process aims to ensure the library remains a vital community resource by aligning its priorities, services, and long-term vision with the evolving needs and aspirations of Westfield residents.