Strengthen community engagement through robust core services
GOALS
1.1 | Expand outreach services and community collaborations to better reach new audiences and create lifelong users
1.2 | Provide inspiring and innovative programs to serve all ages in the community
1.3 | Develop responsive and inclusive collections that support learning, culture, and recreation
1.4 | Create intentionality around receiving, understanding, and responding to community feedback to develop a culture of open communication
Enhance library spaces and operations for maximized usage
GOALS
2.1 | Ensure welcoming, flexible, and accessible library spaces and operations to allow for patron-centric services
2.2 | Refresh and update library spaces to encourage usage and enhance comfort
Prioritize organizational culture
GOALS
3.1 | Focus on optimizing
organizational effectiveness by cultivating internal trust, equity, and collaboration
3.2 | Increase organizational investment in staff development and retention
October 2025 Update
The Howard Miller Public Library continues to make significant progress toward the goals outlined in its 2024–2026 Strategic Plan. Through a focused commitment to community engagement, enhanced library spaces, and organizational excellence, the Library has achieved meaningful milestones that strengthen its role as a cornerstone of learning, creativity, and connection in the Zeeland community.
The accomplishments achieved so far reflect the Howard Miller Public Library’s unwavering dedication to its mission and its community. By fostering engagement, enhancing spaces, and investing in people, the Library is well-positioned to fulfill the vision set forth in its 2024–2026 Strategic Plan—serving as a vibrant hub of knowledge, creativity, and connection for all.
- Director attended Township Board meetings to provide updates and engage in discussions about the future of library services.
- Participated in community events including Pumpkinfest storytime and parade.
- Maintained regular communication with Zeeland Public School District to coordinate programming.
- Expanded passive programming with increased offerings and participation.
- Distributed monthly announcements about library programs to local publications.
- Redesigned the library website for improved accessibility and user experience.
- Introduced more teen programming, including the popular Pizza and Pages activity.
- Added new furniture and device charging stations in the upstairs seating area.
- Updated Teen Area with modern seating, high-top tables, and wall artwork.
- Enhanced the children’s creative play area with new puppet stage, puppets, art easel, and play tent.
- Replaced AWE computer stations with new desktop computers featuring Magic Desktop learning software.
- Implemented self-directed staff skill development worksheets to enhance customer service.
- Optimized training time for online professional development webinars.
- Held annual staff development days for collective learning and collaboration.
- Improve library acoustics for better patron and staff experience.
- Develop stronger vendor relationships to optimize collection development spending.
- Train staff to manage and update the redesigned website.
- Enhance cross-shift communication for improved operations.
- Continue supporting internal staff development and professional growth.