What could Yakima Valley Libraries look like if we moved away from “Gatekeeping” and toward “Empowerment”? This page outlines a roadmap for a library system that values its staff, embraces technology, and leads the community.

Currently, technology like 3D printers are restricted. In a “Library of the Future” model:

• Open Innovation: Patrons don't just receive prints; they learn CAD design, troubleshooting, and engineering.
• Community Hubs: We rebuild partnerships with the Yakima MakerSpace and local schools to create a county-wide “Innovation Corridor.”
• Staff Experts: Instead of one gatekeeper, every branch has a “Tech Champion” trained and empowered to help patrons create art and prototypes.

When we restore tools like Microsoft Teams and Group CMS access, the library becomes agile:

• The “Live” Library: Staff can update the website in real-time to reflect local branch events, rather than waiting for IT approval.
• Horizontal Knowledge: A librarian in Sunnyside can instantly share a successful program idea with a colleague in Selah, without a manager “siloing” the conversation.

We shouldn't wait for patrons to come to us; we meet them where they are:

• The Fair & The Festivals: YVL booths should be the highlight of the County Fair—not just passing out bookmarks, but hosting “Mobile Maker Labs.”
• Business Incubation: Providing small business owners and farmers with the tech tools (3D printing for parts, advanced data research) they need to thrive.

A library system is only as strong as its staff. Our vision includes:

• Contract-Backed Training: Professional development is a standard, not a favor. Staff are given the time and resources to stay ahead of tech trends.
• The “Just Cause” Environment: A workplace where feedback is constructive, and performance plans are actually about improvement, not “papering” files for termination.

When we stop being gatekeepers and start being facilitators, the numbers follow:

• Circulation increases because our collection reflects community needs.
• Door Counts rise because the library is a place of active creation, not just quiet storage.
• Solidarity grows because we are all working toward a shared, inspiring goal.

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