Hello Everyone,
Thank you again for your support and engagement in our Strategic Planning process. I am writing now with an update on the results of our initial sessions and what to expect next.
When considering TAL’s Values, Vision, and Mission, members described a consortium grounded in collaboration, innovation, collective impact, lifelong learning, intellectual freedom, equity of access, and transparency. They envisioned TAL as a unifying force, championing cross-sectoral collaboration, provincial and national leadership, and equitable access for all Albertans. Members discussed a consortium that supports Alberta’s libraries by solving efficiency, sustainability, and scale challenges. By leveraging collective buying power and fostering meaningful connections, TAL should continue strengthening institutions and the communities they serve.
Several key themes emerged through the PESTLE (Political, Economic, Social, Technological, Legal, and Environmental) and the TOWS (Threats, Opportunities, Weaknesses, and Strengths) analyses.
- Libraries across the province face rising costs and limited budgets, putting pressure on funding and sustainability.
- Access to professional development remains uneven, particularly for rural and smaller institutions.
- While collaboration across sectors continues to hold great promise, it is often hindered by silos (sometimes within institutions).
- Strategic coordination remains challenging, sometimes weakening advocacy and libraries’ ability to articulate their value to communities.
- Equity of access is shaped by geography, income, and age, while increasing reliance on technology (including AI) is exposing new gaps in digital literacy and infrastructure.
- Cybersecurity risks are growing and further complicated by dependence on US-based platforms.
- Sociocultural shifts, such as demographic changes, growing mental health needs, and the spread of misinformation and disinformation are reshaping community expectations.
- These challenges are further compounded by shifting legal and policy frameworks and the increasing urgency of environmental infrastructure.
TAL’s strength comes from the commitment and insight of its members. As we navigate these complex challenges and find the opportunities ahead, working together to create connected strategies will be essential.
This next phase of the Strategic Planning process will deepen TAL’s understanding and ensure member voices shape a future where we continue to adapt and thrive.
-Darel Bennedbaek, CEO
Check out our previous announcement to see the outline of next steps: https://thealbertalibrary.ca/2025/03/17/strategic-planning-announcement/