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April 29, 1998
Recorder: Linda Westlake
This was a special meeting to discuss the CUL Tactical Plan.
Sarah Thomas introduced the topic by explaining that the plan, which identifies CUL goals and objectives through December 1999, is primarily intended to be an internal library working document and not a public relations document for distribution to a broader external audience. The purpose of the plan is to serve as a communications device to help promote a sense of common purpose and an understanding of priorities within the organization. Sarah indicated that development of the plan should be viewed as an iterative process which provides open discussion, reflects the work of everyone in the library and will be improved and adjusted over time. It is expected that the plan will be evaluated semi-annually with updating at least on an annual basis.
Ed Weissman explained the latest changes to the document made by LMT as a result of comments received from library staff.
There was active discussion on the overall format of the document and several suggestions were made to clarify or expand on specific goals and objectives. It was acknowledged that there are some emerging issues (alumni status, electronic publishing options, etc.) that make it difficult to clearly define certain objectives at this time. CUL must continue to evaluate issues, as well as be responsive to changing priorities of the University, to help provide clarification on issues and identify appropriate updates to the plan. Additional comments should be sent to Sarah or Ed by Friday, May 8.
One more version of the initial plan will be distributed for review and comment.
What's next?: Specific goals and objectives will be assigned to individuals who will be responsible for monitoring and reporting on progress on both an individual unit and library-wide basis.
On a related matter, $100,000 is available from discretionary funds allocated by the Provost to Sarah when she began her tenure as University Librarian. The group was asked to consider how the funding might be used to help accomplish particular goals, especially those involving cooperative and collaborative projects.
Suggestions, including a brief summary describing costs and benefits to CUL or the University, should be submitted to Sarah by Monday, May 18.
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rev. 5/29/98 peo