Strategic Direction 2024-2029

2024-2029

Thrive Ahead KITSAP REGIONAL LIBRARY’S STRATEGIC DIRECTION

A Future Where Libraries & People Flourish

For all of us, the COVID-19 pandemic was a defining moment.

At Kitsap Regional Library, we emerged with a sureness of our own ability to lean into challenges and embrace change to move ourselves—and our communities—forward. This resilience is foundational to our continued commitment to be relevant to all of our communities, especially as we navigate continued socio-economic, health, housing, and financial uncertainties in Kitsap County and nationwide.

The following pages present our five-year strategic framework to “Thrive Ahead,” setting our course to become more accessible, collaborative, and sustainable. We are extending our mission beyond our conventional library boundaries in recognition that we are both a place and presence, fostering digital literacy, civic engagement, economic development, and a sense of belonging for everyone.

To achieve this, we’ll continue to invest in technology and digital resources to ensure universal access to the vast wealth of online knowledge. We’ll also continue to foster partnerships with local schools, organizations, and businesses, creating a collaborative network that enhances community connection and shared responsibility. All the while, we will stay true to core programming that fosters a love for reading and lifelong learning, promotes literacy and critical thinking skills, and inspires individuals of all ages to explore new ideas and broaden their horizons.

Libraries have always been integral to their communities, and communities are integral to their libraries. For years, Friends of the Library groups and the Kitsap Regional Library Foundation have nurtured loyal donors whose generosity has supplemented public tax dollars to enhance and expand our library programs, as well as renovate and build new spaces that would otherwise not be possible.

This support has never been more vital. Not only is it essential to our sustainability, but it is also pivotal to our ability to innovate and grow, keep pace with our ever-changing environment, and deepen our role as a key community resource.

We invite you to join us on this extraordinary journey as we write the next chapter in the story of Kitsap Regional Library.

With warm regards,

Jason Driver, Stephanie George, Library Director Board of Trustees President Thrive Ahead | 2024-2029 2

3 Kitsap Regional Library’s Strategic Direction

Table of Contents 5

Framework for Success

8

We Are Kitsap Regional Library

15

Strategy 1—Foster Welcoming & Belonging

19

Strategy 2—Build Collective Impact

23

Strategy 3—Thrive Ahead

27

Data & Contributors

“The library gives everyone a safe environment and a chance to grow... without pressure to be a certain way.

It’s an open place where you’re able to expand on things you didn’t even think you would be interested in.”

Shelby Barnes, STEM & Learning Assistant Shelby completed a STEM internship in 2016

Thrive Ahead | 2024-2029 4

Framework for Success Our strategic vision charts our path, guiding decisions as we fulfill our mission and ensuring the Library inspires future generations to come.

Inspiring curiosity and connection.

Mission

A collaborative community inspired by curiosity and connection, so that all people have the opportunity to grow, belong, and thrive.

Vision

Foster Welcoming & Belonging

Strategic Direction

Build Collective Impact Thrive Ahead

Values

Equity

Service

Curiosity

We strive for true access and opportunity for all, promoting just and fair treatment by asking others what they need to succeed and creating space for full participation.

We continuously ask, listen, adapt, and prioritize the user experience, evolving with the changing needs of our communities.

We explore possibilities and provoke wonder, fostering a deeper understanding of ourselves and inviting empathy and inclusivity toward others to support meaningful change.

5 Kitsap Regional Library’s Strategic Direction

Priority Areas Early Learning We cultivate a lifelong love for reading and learning, supporting parents and caregivers as their child’s first teachers. Through programs and resources, we lay a foundation for academic and personal success.

Making & Interest-Based Learning Recognizing the human drive for creativity, we provide a platform for exploring passions, discovering interests, and engaging in hands-on activities, sparking a continuous journey of knowledge, innovation, and personal growth.

Workforce Readiness & Development We support the enhancement of skills and knowledge through classes, resources, and partnerships, fostering local economic vitality and equipping individuals with tools to excel in a dynamic job market.

Science, Technology, Engineering & Math (STEM) STEM knowledge is fundamental for all ages. We offer innovative learning experiences, support digital literacy, and inspire curiosity, nurturing critical thinkers, problem solvers, and leaders.

Community & Social Connectedness We actively bridge relationships and foster engagement within the community. Through collaboration with organizations and the facilitation of programs, discussions, and events, we enhance access and prioritize shared experiences.

Thrive Ahead | 2024-2029 6

7 Kitsap Regional Library’s Strategic Direction

We Are Kitsap Regional Library Serving over 277,000 Kitsap residents, Kitsap Regional Library is a vital social infrastructure, playing a critical role in the community’s growth and development. Our libraries originated from the passion of their unique communities, motivated to create havens for access and learning. Writing our first chapters, libraries took root in unconventional spaces—from horse stables and school cafeterias to shopping marts, town halls, Army surplus buildings, and even a chicken coop!

Now, each neighborhood library’s impact is magnified through a unified system. Beyond bricks and mortar, we’ve undergone a transformative journey, integrating into the digital landscape and reaching every corner of Kitsap, offering personalized services and technology assistance, supporting community education initiatives and social welfare, championing literacy, facilitating community connections, and being a safe haven—we strive to serve as a space where everyone belongs.

Thrive Ahead | 2024-2029 8

Recent Growth In 2017, the Kitsap community supported a levy to improve the Library’s funding.

This not only revived services and hours, previously limited due to budget constraints, but also enabled essential facility maintenance and a purposeful expansion of library services, allowing us to keep pace with Kitsap’s growing community.

Fulfilling our promise and broadening access, operating hours are now extended and more consistent. We’ve become fine-free, introduced automatic renewals and free printing with a set limit, and even established a book locker in Poulsbo—a pilot project with a bright future.

Emphasizing inclusivity, we’ve delved into diversity, equity, and inclusion work and made advancements in technology, including new public computers; extended Wi-Fi access, a broader digital collection, digital library cards, and a new website and catalog, meeting the ever-evolving needs of Kitsap.

We’ve responsibly renovated our libraries, making critical updates to our Sylvan Way branch, revitalizing our Poulsbo branch, and celebrating the inauguration of a new library in Silverdale—generously funded through private donations. Collaborations with our building owners have allowed us to do more, evidenced by critical infrastructure updates at the Port Orchard branch and refreshed Downtown Bremerton and Manchester branches.

The pandemic threatened our momentum post-levy. Yet, our team showcased unparalleled adaptability, introducing services like curbside pickups, personalized book bundles, virtual storytimes and book groups, and a reimagined Summer Learning program. These changes provided a sense of stability and connection during uncertain times and have now become staple offerings.

Community partnerships remain at our core.

Seamless library access is now available for all students in three of our county’s school districts, with their student IDs doubling as Kitsap Regional Library cards. Working alongside Peninsula Community Health Services, select branches now host mobile medical and behavioral health clinics, and the Puget Sound Genealogical Society is located within our Sylvan Way branch to offer access to their collections, classes, and volunteer expertise to the Kitsap community.

In the midst of these advancements, our foundational services persist. We offer a rich library collection, fundamental educational programs, and essential, trusted, and

9 Kitsap Regional Library’s Strategic Direction

personalized services. Kitsap libraries stand as open spaces for all—places to meet, work, read, play, and belong.

Who We Serve Kitsap County blends natural allure with its shorelines, forests, and mountains and has a richly diverse community. Our region stands out for its economic diversity, spanning bustling areas like Bremerton to quieter rural sections.

The Library serves a spectrum of communities: commuter neighborhoods, the sovereign Suquamish and the Port Gamble S’Klallam tribes, two naval bases, and the educational center, Olympic College.

According to the 2022 U.S. Census data, the majority of Kitsap County’s residents are White (81.6%). Kitsap is also home to Hispanic and Latino (9.1%), Asian (5.7%), Black and African American (3.3%), American Indian and Alaska Native (1.7%), and Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander (1.0%) communities. Age demographics show 19.4% are under 18, with 19.8% ages 65 and older.

Healthcare, government, manufacturing, and the naval bases are the primary employment sectors, underscoring a growing role of technology and research and reflecting a significant veteran presence. The median household income for Kitsap County stands at around $84,600. However, it’s worth noting that this figure is heavily skewed by the higher incomes on Bainbridge Island, where the median income is approximately $145,475 and 74% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. In contrast, Bremerton has a median income of roughly $61,641 and a 27% bachelor’s degree attainment rate. Overall, 95.2% of Kitsap adults have a high school diploma, and 35% hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, trending just slightly higher than the state average.

English is the predominant language, while there’s a notable presence of Spanish and Tagalog speakers. The County’s trends point to an aging demographic, improvements in education and income levels, and increasing diversity­—from 2000 to 2022, the Hispanic population has nearly doubled, increasing from 4.8% to 9.1%.

Thrive Ahead | 2024-2029 10

Financial Resilience Kitsap Regional Library operations are primarily funded by property taxes, contributing 96% (2024) to its approximately $18 million yearly revenue. This funding is crucial for maintaining library services, facilities, and collections, with staff salaries and benefits comprising 78% (2024) of the operating budget.

In 2001, the Library’s funding landscape was dramatically altered when voters approved Washington Initiative 747, capping property tax revenue increases at 1% annually or 50 cents per $1,000 assessed property value, whichever is less. This change restricts growth in the Library’s main revenue source.

2023 Library Funding 94.8%

Property Tax 5.2%

Other Revenue

2023 Operating Budget 8%

Programs & Services 18%

47%

10%

Collections Technology Buildings

17%

Administrative Support *Across all areas, staff salaries and benefits comprise 78% of the operating budget.

11 Kitsap Regional Library’s Strategic Direction

The Library received a significant boost in November 2017 when Kitsap voters passed a levy that increased the tax rate to 43 cents per $1,000, adding $3.43 million to the 2018 budget and, more importantly, establishing a new base for future revenue calculations.

Despite an average annual revenue increase of 2.4% since 2018, the Library faces challenges from the economic environment, a capped rate, and rising costs, including healthcare, technology, staff salaries, and maintenance of older buildings. In 2023, the library’s tax revenue was about 27 cents per $1,000 of assessed property value.

Periodic levies are an essential part of responsible stewardship and stable, long-term funding for the Library to meet community needs, given the 1% cap and reliance on property taxes. To this end, Kitsap Regional Library anticipates proposing a levy to voters in the near future to sustain current service levels and meet expanding needs inherent to the growing population in Kitsap County.

The Vital Role of Philanthropy Our philanthropic allies—the Kitsap Regional Library Foundation and seven Friends of the Library groups—are invaluable. They secure funds that enable us the flexibility to innovate and adapt to changing community needs.

Their contribution empowers us to amplify public funds, extend tech access, enhance facilities, and pioneer new programs. These fundraising activities not only bring financial benefits but also build social bonds. Through collaboration, we foster a giving culture, inspiring future generations.

Thrive Ahead | 2024-2029 12

13 Kitsap Regional Library’s Strategic Direction

The Future of Libraries Libraries are evolving rapidly to address technological shifts and community needs. Beyond their traditional roles, they are now essential centers for digital literacy, providing internet access, and vital skills to navigate the digital world. Libraries are seeing increasing demand for online services, like ebooks and audiobooks, and virtual assistance from library staff.

During the recent pandemic, libraries served as places for help, highlighting how they continue to take on non-traditional roles, serving as places of refuge and support in times of crisis. In day-to-day operations, libraries have evolved to serve as lifelines for vulnerable populations. When adequate social services are lacking, libraries often fill the void, connecting people with vital resources like housing, medical assistance, and job opportunities.

In Kitsap County, a study conducted by Kitsap Community Resources found that residents face significant challenges in meeting basic needs and accessing essential services, making the library a critical starting point. Libraries compile essential resources and provide professionals who assist in navigating it all.

These expanded roles strain library resources. Balancing the roles of education centers, digital literacy hubs, and social services requires libraries to be increasingly versatile and resourceful.

Statistically, the library’s impact on community stability is undeniable.

For instance, a study by the National Bureau of Economic Research found a direct correlation between low literacy rates and high crime rates. According to the U.S. Department of Education, 21% of American adults read below a 5th-grade level, and a study by the Alliance for Excellent Education showed that just a 5% increase in high school graduation rates could lead to an annual saving of $18.5 billion in crime-related expenses. And a 2018 report by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention shared the importance of libraries as partners in improving public health as libraries already provide refuge for vulnerable populations, facilitate community literacy, and connect people with health, housing, employment, and education resources.

The evolving role of libraries makes them indispensable, serving as vital connectors that bridge various gaps in society—from the digital divide to social services. While the responsibility is immense, the positive impact on individual lives and overall community wellbeing is undeniable. Libraries are poised to remain essential fixtures in communities, playing a crucial role in fostering literacy, economic stability, and social cohesion.

Thrive Ahead | 2024-2029 14

Strategy 1

Foster Welcoming & Belonging Kitsap County’s diverse cultures, languages, and identities enrich our community. The Library is dedicated to fostering inclusive and equitable environments where all can actively participate, contribute, and thrive.

15 Kitsap Regional Library Strategic Direction

“Please make the libraries a more welcoming place for all members of the community.”

2021 Patron Survey Feedback

Thrive Ahead | 2024-2029 16

Strategy 1 Foster Welcoming & Belonging

Everyone sees themselves reflected in the Library.

17 Kitsap Regional Library Strategic Direction

1.1 Understand the Unique Makeup of Our Community Build strong connections with historically marginalized groups by actively listening and learning to form the basis for collaborative initiatives that genuinely represent their needs and voices.

1.2 Design Diverse Collections for All Continuously assess and adapt our collections based on data about our community’s makeup, ensuring that the Library offers inclusive and representative materials that resonate with the interests, passions, and needs of patrons, especially historically marginalized communities.

1.3 Advance Equity & Inclusivity Following the 2022 DEI Recommended Priorities and Goals, assess policies, procedures, and communications to remove barriers to access. Conduct active and sustained engagement with historically underrepresented communities, allocating resources for community involvement, promoting culturally aligned communication, and ensuring transparency and participation in decision-making.

1.4 Ensure a Talented & Diverse Workforce Develop comprehensive recruitment and retention plans to ensure our Library Board, leadership, and staff reflect our diverse community, gaining a deeper understanding of our community’s unique needs through staff perspectives.

Outcomes 1.

Increased availability and use of diverse, representative materials, resources, and services built for underrepresented communities, with quantifiable metrics tracking utilization.

2. A marked reduction in identified barriers to access in policies and procedures and evidence that changes have been influenced by feedback and specific needs of marginalized identities.

3. Improved community perception of the Library’s inclusivity and responsiveness, and feedback showing greater satisfaction and relevance, measured through surveys.

Thrive Ahead | 2024-2029 18

Strategy 2

Build Collective Impact The Library is a facilitator of community collaboration, fostering dynamic partnerships to unite diverse strengths, talents, and perspectives, address challenges, and achieve shared goals. We are committed to exploring new possibilities to cultivate connections and deepen our collective impact.

19 Kitsap Regional Library Strategic Direction

“More collaboration with other Kitsap services would help us achieve both our priorities but also more community engagement and visibility.”

2022 Staff Strategic Planning Survey

Thrive Ahead | 2024-2029 20

Strategy 2 Build Collective Impact

Collaboration leads to shared success and lasting positive change.

21 Kitsap Regional Library’s Strategic Direction

2.1 Forge Deeper Connections Systematically conduct community asset mapping to understand our diverse demographics and tailor services. Use data insights to guide future collaborations and ensure equitable services for our entire community.

2.2 Amplify Shared Goals Deepen our proficiency in connecting patrons to optimal partner organizations.

Pave the way for imaginative co-location strategies that nurture opportunities within libraries and expand our reach through collaborative partnerships.

2.3 Cultivate a Resilient Internal Culture Nurture a culture that thrives from collaboration, innovation, and inclusivity. Foster an environment where every staff member feels empowered, valued, and connected, enabling us to collectively evolve and deliver exceptional service to our community.

2.4 Bridge Gaps in Underserved Populations Expand Mobile Services to reach more individuals experiencing significant personal or geographic barriers to utilizing traditional library services. Work with partners to develop creative, accessible opportunities for individuals to receive and return materials. Build the teams and tools needed to support new services successfully.

Outcomes 1.

Using community asset mapping and data-driven insights, achieving equitable service delivery, and increasing utilization of library services by underserved populations.

2. Expanding proficiency in connecting patrons to partner organizations and implementing innovative co-location strategies.

3. Staff empowerment and a culture of inclusivity driven by collaborative efforts, active staff contributions, and a sense of shared purpose.

Thrive Ahead | 2024-2029 22

Strategy 3

Thrive Ahead Libraries and our communities are undergoing rapid changes.

Thriving ahead, we will build an enduring, impactful Library for present and future generations. Our libraries will persist as sources of community pride, open and welcoming to all.

23 Kitsap Regional Library Strategic Direction

“The Library has become an integral part of the community...I look forward to seeing how it will continue to evolve in the future.”

2021 Patron Survey

Thrive Ahead | 2024-2029 24

Strategy 3 Thrive Ahead

Sustaining our Library’s legacy for generations to come.

25 Kitsap Regional Library’s Strategic Direction

3.1 Create Future-Ready, Universally Accessible Spaces Create a 20-year facilities plan, balancing maintenance with evolving library and community needs. Prioritize equal access for diverse backgrounds and dynamic growth through flexible spaces, creation labs, and co-located partnerships.

3.2 Build Transformative Libraries in Port Orchard & Bremerton Replace Port Orchard and Sylvan Way branches with innovative libraries designed through community input and focused on creating inclusive, sustainable educational hubs that boost economic growth.

3.3 Technology Advancement For All Expand patron technology access and training, align equipment with future needs, and elevate staff technology proficiency, effectively promoting community-wide digital empowerment.

3.4 Continued Financial Sustainability Evaluate community needs and transparently communicate the importance of renewing levy funds. Collaborate with fundraisers, building owners, and the community for strategic, capital, and sustainable funding goals.

3.5 Create a Culture of Philanthropy Partner with the Kitsap Regional Library Foundation on fundraising aligned with our mission. Through their targeted outreach and creative fundraising, secure vital support for capital and library needs, ensuring financial stability and deepened community connections.

Outcomes 1.

Enhanced accessibility and usability of library spaces for diverse communities, demonstrated by increased utilization.

2. Improved access to modern technology resources for patrons and elevated staff proficiency, resulting in increased digital empowerment and digital literacy.

3. Ongoing community engagement in shaping the vision and use of library spaces, fostering a sense of ownership and pride.

Thrive Ahead | 2024-2029 26

LIBR Your Library 2022 Statistics

Nearly

637,000

9 branches,

serving more than

277,000 people

visits, open

18,033 hours

Hosted

1,700

programs for more than

More than

6,000

44,000 attendees

Summer Learning participants logged

67,000

hours of reading

64,628 public computer sessions

621,151

ebooks & audiobooks downloaded 27 Kitsap Regional Library Strategic Direction

RARY More than

2.4 million items borrowed

More than

2,650

home visits made by the Mobile Services Team

More than

385,000

collection items

Nearly

3,300

questions answered online

40 youth interns in 7 years 2,036

To the Library third graders visited their local branch

Thrive Ahead | 2024-2029 28

Contributors

y Eric Meade, Consultant

Building Owners

y Alyson Rotter

The cities of Bremerton and Port Orchard, Port Gamble S’Klallam Tribe, Metropolitan Parks District, Manchester Friends of the Library, Bainbridge Public Library, Inc., and Central Kitsap School District.

Fundraising Partners Kitsap Regional Library Foundation and Friends of the Library organizations of Manchester, Port Orchard, East Bremerton, Silverdale, Poulsbo, Kingston, and Bainbridge Island.

y Akuyea Karen Vargas

y Angie Tomissen y Tony Ives y Tony Lyon-Loftus y Brenda Guerrero y Brittany Cerna-Madrid y Carli Meurs y Cristina Roark y David Emmons y Dennis O’Connell

Individuals

y Donna Colosky

y Stephanie George, Library Board, President

y Drayton Jackson

y Erik Fong, Library Board, Vice President

y Fletcher Sandbeck

y Marwan Cameron, Library Board

y Jackie Wilson

y Gina D. Steiner, Library Board

y Jeff Allen

y Eric Cisney, Library Board

y Jeromy Sullivan

y Jason Driver, Library Director

y Jill Brenner

y Jeannie Allen, Director of Strategy & Communications

y Jillian English

y Dan Baer, Deputy Director, Chief Financial & Operating Officer

y John Clauson

y Shannon Peterson, Deputy Director, Public Services y Lucretia Robertson, Director of Human Resources & DEI y Mike Rose, Director of Information Technology & Facilities Maintenance

y Joe Morrison

y John Fossett y José Castro y Kathleen Wilson y Leigh Ann Winterowd y Lia Burbridge

y Wendy Kile, Executive Director, Kitsap Regional Library Foundation

y Liz Ochoa

y Tammy Jeffries, Executive Assistant

y Mark Hughes

29 Kitsap Regional Library’s Strategic Direction

y Lynette S. Bird

y Michelle Will

y Pam Crowe y Sharon Grant y Stephanie Hall

Data y Kitsap Regional Library Reports

y Tim Winter

y 2023 HR Assessment

y Siri Kushner

y 2015-2020, 2021, 2022 Strategic Plan

y Amy Lauder

y 2022 DEI Recommended Priorities and Goals

y Emma Gold

Organizations y Bremerton School District

y 2021, 2022 Strategic Planning Input Staff Survey y 2021 Patron Survey y 2015-2022 Statistical Data

y Chief Kitsap Academy

y 2022 KCR Community Needs Assessment

y Greater Kitsap Chamber y Homeless Poverty Management

y 2022 KPHD Health Indicators & Disparity Report

y Kitsap Community Resources

y 2022 US Census Bureau Data

y Kitsap Economic Development Alliance

y Puget Sound Regional Council Regional Data Profile

y Kitsap ERACE y Kitsap Mental Health Services y Kitsap Pride

y 2022, 2023 OSPI Washington Report Cards y 2022 Kitsap Economic Development Alliance Reports

y Kitsap Public Health District y Kitsap Public Utility District y Kitsap Strong y Kitsap Transit y Leadership Kitsap y Living Arts Cultural Heritage y North Kitsap School District

Thank You

y Olympic Educational Service District

Kitsap Regional Library staff, valued community organizations, and the residents of Kitsap County generously contributed their time, voices, vision, and dreams to shape this strategic plan. Your dedication and involvement are instrumental in guiding our Library toward a brighter, more inclusive future. Thank you for being an essential part of our journey.

y Peninsula Community Health y Port of Manchester y Rice Fergus Miller y South Kitsap School District y Whole Mind Strategy Group

Thrive Ahead | 2024-2029 30

Bainbridge (206) 451-5050 1270 Madison Ave. N, 98110

Bremerton – Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. (360) 447-5420 612 5th St., 98337

Little Boston

Bremerton-Sylvan Way (360) 447-5480 1301 Sylvan Way, Bremerton, 98310

Kingston

Kingston (360) 860-5070 26159 Dulay Rd. NE, 98346

Little Boston (360) 860-5080 31980 Little Boston Rd. NE, 98346

Manchester (360) 447-5430 8067 E Main St., Port Orchard, 98366

Poulsbo

Port Orchard (360) 447-5440 87 Sidney Ave., 98366

Poulsbo (360) 447-5450 700 NE Lincoln Rd., 98370

Silverdale

Bainbridge

Silverdale (360) 447-5470 3650 NW Anderson Hill Rd., Suite 101, 98383

Mobile Services (360) 447-5505

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Sylvan Way Manchester Port Orchard

“Your being there has saved me in so many ways. Thank you.“ 2021 Patron Survey

Approved 12/19/2023