Strategic Plan 2024-2028

In developing the plan, we consulted a broad range of people to ensure diverse perspectives were reflected for a well‑rounded strategy.

Consultants facilitated a series of workshops for the Library Board, staff, and community partners. Community partner workshops included members from the City, education sector, business sector and the many non-profits that the Library works with. We also engaged with Skookum Surrey to understand perspectives from Indigenous peoples in Surrey. Surveys were used to gather input from both our community and staff, and interactive activations at each library branch ensured patrons’ perspectives were heard.

In Summary:

• 100+ participants at four community partner focus groups, including one for Indigenous community
• 1,790 public survey respondents
• 118 staff at three World Café sessions
• 129 staff survey respondents
• 10 in-branch activations
   

The vision sets out the ideal future the Library aspires to realize and helps drive our work both in the community and within our organization.

A literate, inclusive, thriving city.

The mission reflects the Library’s core purpose and how we will work towards
supporting the vision.

We connect people, spark curiosity, and inspire lifelong learning to enhance the lives of Surrey residents.

Through the caring work of our staff and in collaboration with our city
and community partners, we do this by:

• Supporting people’s needs by connecting them with the right resources at the right time
• Building community through programs and services that strengthen social connections
• Creating accessible, inclusive, and welcoming online and physical spaces

Values serve as our guiding principles, shaping our culture and behaviour. They help define our identity and purpose, influencing decision-making and actions. By aligning with these values, the Library creates a cohesive and ethical environment, fostering long‑term success.

Intellectual Freedom
We champion the right for different voices and ideas to be heard, and the right for questions to be asked without censorship.

Community Focus
We care about the well-being of our community and work to foster a sense of belonging and connection.

Equitable Access
We strive for our services to be accessible to all members of our community.

Innovation
We continuously explore and pursue new ideas to improve services, remaining flexible to find creative solutions.

Collaboration
We work with each other, our city, our community, and our patrons to support common goals and provide excellent service.

Sustainability
We strive to be a leader in environmentally sound, socially equitable, and economically feasible practices.

1. A Connected Community
   Individuals are connected to information, ideas, and each other, both within the Library and outside in the community. Local culture is showcased and celebrated, and social connections are made to reduce isolation. Decisions are made considering diverse perspectives from staff, the community, and informed by data. Community partners are engaged to leverage resources and create meaningful impact.
2. Welcoming Learning Spaces
   Spaces, both physical and online, are welcoming and inclusive, catering to different learning styles—from vibrant families gathering, to youth studying together, to people seeking solace and inspiration. Local Indigenous history and culture are reflected, as are the different community members that call Surrey home.
3. Empowered People
   Resources, whether collections, technology, or highly trained staff, are available to help individuals succeed in life and be active contributors to society and the economy. Employees are supported to be continuously learning, healthy and productive, offering excellent service.
4. A Resilient and Strong Organization
   The Library’s policies, processes, and procedures are continuously improved to provide excellent service and address the needs of a growing city. Our impact on the environment guides our work and decision making.

1.1 Broaden Library usage and membership
1.2 Diversify and deepen relationships with community partners
1.3 Assess and prioritize services based on data, staff, and community input

2.1 Align services, spaces, and collections to reflect Surrey’s diverse community, with a focus on newcomers, youth, seniors, and Indigenous peoples
2.2 Improve patrons’ experience in physical branches and online, and plan for new branches
2.3 Provide technological tools and training for the community

3.1 Provide programs and services to support our residents’ ability to succeed in life
3.2 Support employee professional development and learning
3.3 Promote employee health and wellbeing

4.1 Continuously improve processes for service excellence
4.2 Adopt sustainable practices
4.3 Spend funds responsibly and plan for growth

Quantitative and qualitative measures have been developed to measure the progress of the plan. Measures include outputs such as library usage data and outcomes such as the impact created. Outcomes will be captured through community and employee surveys.
Measures will be monitored to assess where improvements and changes to approach may be required. They will also be important to recognize and celebrate accomplishments. Measures will be assessed annually to ensure they are still suitable to monitor the success of the plan.