Annual Report FY24 | HOWE LIBRARY CORPORATION BOARD CHAIR’S REPORT
Vital Community Space I have raised my family at the library. For the past eleven years, the Howe has been an extension of our living room: a comfortable, welcoming space to gather, connect and enjoy. Above all, it is a place where we—and anyone—can simply be. Climate-controlled and without admission fees or time limits, the library is a rare public space where all are welcome.
Laura Larrick Chair, Board of Trustees
Results of our recent survey suggest that the community agrees: the Howe received high satisfaction ratings for its free meeting rooms, study spaces and public restrooms. As we engage in space planning over the next year, we will explore options that continue to make the library comfortable, flexible and accessible. This past year, highlights of the Board’s work include finalizing a strategic plan that will guide the library’s work through 2026, working with the Town of Hanover to assess and address building needs, and engaging Corporation Members through events and communication. This work, combined with the Howe’s collections and programs (funded entirely by gifts to the Howe Annual Fund), has me in awe of our community’s collective power. Thank you for investing in this shared community space.
DIRECTOR’S REPORT
Find. Learn. Connect. As our previous strategic plan came to an end, the Howe was eager to initiate a new strategic planning process. Recognizing the significant changes in our community's needs, desires, and interactions post COVID, the staff and board’s aim was to steer the library towards making the most impactful contributions. Through the strategic planning process, our goal has been to harness our staff’s strengths and elevate the quality of our work to serve our community at the highest level.
Rubi Simon Director, Howe Library
Throughout this process, we listened to your feedback. You clearly expressed what you loved, what you wanted to maintain, and where improvements could be made. It became evident that our collections, programming, space, and staff are key priorities. These elements will shape our strategic direction, emphasizing community engagement and core services to ensure our library remains a welcoming hub for everyone. We are committed to recognizing and prioritizing our staff’s strengths in this endeavor. With our new strategic plan, Howe staff is ready to expand community connections, create responsive and innovative services, make the most of library spaces, and prioritize organizational growth.
Howe Library anchors our vibrant community, providing diverse resources, welcoming spaces, and opportunities for lifelong learning.