Strategic projections in public libraries: what, how and for what? A comparative study

Abstract

Objective. To determine convergence points regarding strategic projections of public libraries in Bellingham, Chicago (United States), Calgary, London (Canada), Scotland, Finland, Ireland and Victoria (Australia).
Design/Methodology/Approach. The research was performed by means of the documentary analysis of relevant articles on strategic management, and the qualitative content analysis of strategic reports regarding the performances of public libraries in the aforementioned contexts.
Results/Discussion. There were noted the points of contact between the contemporary functions of public libraries and their projections in order to benefit their communities.
Conclusions. Strategic management must be a steady activity in public libraries. The presence and materialization of strategic projections lead public libraries to satisfy the informational and cultural needs, such as the benefits of their communities.
Originality/Value. The analysis of eight strategic public library projections in different contexts enable us to suggest points of convergence that might be relevant to other public libraries, and researchers involved in such strategic management process.