Strategic Plan 2026-2028

Welcome Message

Welcome to the Lincoln Township Public Library and to our 2026–2028 Strategic Plan

This plan represents both a celebration of how far we’ve come and a thoughtful roadmap for where we’re headed next

Over the past several years, the library board, staff, and community has made transformational investments in the library In 2024–2025, we completed a once-in-alifetime $1.6 million interior renovation, creating brighter, more flexible, and more welcoming spaces In the years surrounding that project, we also strengthened the building’s long-term sustainability with a new roof in 2023 and new HVAC installed on the north side of the building. These improvements ensure that our physical space matches the energy and growth of our services

With the building renewed, it is now time to focus even more intentionally on people, partnerships, and possibility Our 2026–2028 Strategic Plan was developed during a collaborative one-day workshop that brought together our Library Board, staff, Friends of the Library, and Library Foundation leadership. Together, we reflected on community needs, emerging trends, and the evolving role of public libraries. The result is a shared vision grounded in who we are and bold about where we are going

At its heart, this plan advances our mission to enrich lives, inspire curiosity, and strengthen our community through the power of knowledge and it builds on our core values. Over the next two years, we will anticipate and respond to the evolving needs of our community, pioneer creative solutions, and continue building a library that serves as a vibrant center of ideas and connection

Thank you for being part of this journey The future of the library is not only something we plan for, but it is something we build together.

Joelle Wake

Library Director

Organization Background

A Legacy of Growth & Vision

Rooted in Community Since 1938 The seeds of the library were planted in 1938 by the Stevensville Women’s Club, who first organized a small library in the upstairs of the Village of Stevensville Fire Station Though that early effort was brief, the vision endured.

In 1958, community leaders revived the dream. Using rented materials from the Benton Harbor

Key Information

Year Founded 1959

Library Class Class IV

Serves 23,900 residents

Number of Employees (as of March 2026) 21

Yearly Visitors

105,671 Buildiing 25,000 Sqft.

Public Library and the Library of Michigan, the library operated out of a series of temporary locations from a high school gymnasium to Township Hall to the Lincoln Farmer’s Exchange Building

In 1966, the library moved into its first dedicated facility in Village Square. Continued growth led to construction of the current building in 1974 at the corner of John Beers and Roosevelt Roads, with expansions in 1982 and 2000 to meet increasing demand and technological advancement. From a modest summer reading program in a gymnasium to a dynamic community hub, the library has continually evolved alongside Lincoln Township.

Key Detail Information

The Lincoln Township Public Library Difference

The Lincoln Township Public Library is more than a building it is a vibrant gathering place made possible by the unwavering support of our community Our Board and staff are intentional in ensuring that every resource, service, and program reflects the evolving needs of the people we serve.

There are no dusty shelves here. Instead, you’ll find:

A welcoming, energetic atmosphere Quiet spaces for reflection and study Technology that enhances access and convenience Programs that spark curiosity at every stage of life

(as of March 2026) 21

As libraries have transformed over the decades, so have we By embracing innovation and investing in modern tools, we make discovery seamless, engaging, and productive We cultivate an environment that encourages intellectual exploration, creativity, and lifelong learning Above all, we believe in exceptional customer service Nothing excites us more than connecting patrons with resources that educate, empower, and inspire.

25,000 Sqft.

By continually reinventing services for all ages, we live out our mission: LTPL enriches lives, inspires curiosity, and strengthens our community through the power of knowledge.

Class IV 1959

Library Financials

Income (FY 26-27) Operating

Property Taxes: $990,000

Baroda Contract: $50,000

Royalton Contract: $95,000

Penal Fines: $125,000

Copier Fees: $4,000

Passport Fees: $3,000

Interest: $15,000

State Aid: $21,000

Specific Use: (SR) $9,000

Other: $7,500

$1,332,700

Expenses (FY 26-27)

$68,000

Materials: $120,000

Supplies, Copier: $34,000

$32,000 Workshop & Travel: $13,500 Repairs, Maint: $90,000

& Publicity: $40,000 Equipment & Van: $17,000 Professional Expenses: $30,000 Programming: $23,000 Automation: $35,000 Other: $22,000

$1,332,700 Expenses:

Library Board

of Directors

Michael Mortimore Sectretary

Library

Administration

The Administration team at Lincoln Township Public Library works to guide the library’s operations, support staff, and ensure the community receives high-quality services and programs The team oversees finances, strategic planning, facilities, collections, and partnerships that help the library continue to grow and meet the needs of residents

Library Director Joelle Wake, hired in 2022, holds a Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) from Indiana University–Purdue University Indianapolis and brings more than 15 years of experience in libraries Her career has included roles ranging from Information Services Assistant to Youth Services Manager, providing her with a strong background in both public service and library leadership

Business Manager, Dana Londot holds a Business Admin with major in accounting degree from Sienna Heights and is currently pursuing her MLIS at Wayne State She was hired as a cataloger at the library in 2022 and has since advanced into her current role, where she oversees financial operations and supports many aspects of library administration

Jake Bonham, Technical Services Manager, joined the library in 2023 He holds an MLIS and previously worked at the Benton Harbor Public Library, bringing additional professional library experience to the administrative and operational team. He currently manages our Technical Services and Circulation Teams

Joelle Wake Dana Londot Jake Bonham Director Business Manager Technical Services Manager

Library

Team

The rest of the library team is made up of a dedicated group of public service and support staff who help keep Lincoln Township Public Library running smoothly each day The Public Services staff create and implement youth, teen, and adult programming while also helping patrons find information, access resources, and use library services

Technical Services staff are responsible for cataloging and processing materials so that books and other items are ready for the shelves and easy for patrons to find. Circulation staff assist patrons at the front desk, check materials in and out, maintain daily operations, and ensure items are properly shelved and organized throughout the library.

Altogether, the library is supported by five professional librarians along with other skilled staff members who work together to provide welcoming service, meaningful programs, and access to information for the community.

Goal 1:

Patron Experiences

Offer flexible, creative, and intentional library spaces that attract users to experience the library as a “third place” with a wide array of services, collections, and amenities.

Goal 2:

Community Outreach & Awareness

Increase the library’s visibility and relevance across all community demographics.

Objective 1: Expand Demographic Reach to Adults Without Children

Action Items:

Develop programs and events specifically targeted at adult audiences without children, such as book clubs, skill-building workshops, and social gatherings

Promote library services that appeal to professionals, hobbyists, and lifelong learners

Evaluate current marketing and communication channels to better reach this audience.

Objective 2: Strategic Communication Plan

Action Items:

Increase marketing of all library services through social media, local press, and community events

Highlight success stories and metrics that demonstrate value to the community.

Foster partnerships with local businesses and organizations to broaden visibility.

Goal 3:

Improve reading competency and support lifelong learning for all ages.

Objective 1: Enhance Early Literacy and Children’s Programs

Action Items:

Expand Storytime, reading, and learning programs for children under 12.

Develop programs that target reading skill improvement and comprehension

Provide resources and workshops for parents and caregivers to support literacy at home

Objective 2: Support Lifelong Learning for Adults

Action Items:

Expand adult programming in technology, creative arts, and personal enrichment.

Offer classes and workshops that enhance digital literacy and professional development

Objective 3: Grow Middle and High School Engagement

Action Items:

Partner with schools to integrate library resources into curriculum and homework support.

Promote teen programs, gaming, and creative projects to encourage library participation

Offer mentorship and volunteer opportunities for teens to deepen library connections

Goal 4:

Ensure the library’s long-term viability through strategic expansion and improved services.

Objective 1: Consideration of Library District Status

Action Items:

Determine the requirements and potential impacts of transitioning to a district library and present findings to the Library Board

Educate community members and Township Boards on potential impacts and funding structures

Objective 2: Millage Stewardship

Action Items:

Communicate the impact of millage funding on library services and ensure staff and board members can clearly explain its purpose and value Engage with the community and stakeholders to answer questions and build understanding of library funding

Track usage, demographic, and service trends while maintaining data and documentation to support long-term sustainability and future millage renewal

Conclusion

On behalf of everyone at the Lincoln Township Public Library, I want to sincerely thank our community for its continued support. Whether you attend programs, check out materials, share kind words, or advocate for our services, you help make the library a welcoming and vibrant place for all

Your support and engagement are a constant reminder of how much the library means to this community Each year, we proudly serve thousands of residents through programs and services that educate, inspire, and connect from early literacy and Summer Adventure to technology help, creative classes, and outreach As our community grows and changes, your library remains committed to evolving right alongside it

And as we look ahead, your support remains essential. If you are interested in making an even greater impact, we encourage you to support the library through the Foundation, the Friends of the Library, or the library endowment These groups help sustain and expand the services we provide. Every contribution, whether it’s your time, your voice, or your financial support helps us continue providing exceptional services and opportunities for all. Together, we are building not just a library, but a stronger, more connected community

Thank you again for believing in the value of your library. We are grateful to serve you.

With appreciation, LTPL Board & Staff