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Expanding Horizons: Positioning Queensland public libraries for the future 2008-2012

Expanding Horizons: Positioning Queensland public libraries for the future 2008-2012 [new window 314 kb].

What is Expanding Horizons?

Expanding Horizons - Positioning Queensland public libraries for the future 2008-2012 - is a collaborative positioning statement co-developed by the State Library (SLQ), the Queensland Public Libraries Association (QPLA) [new window] and the Local Government Association of Queensland (LGAQ) [new window].

Expanding Horizons, published in 2008 with Ministerial approval, provides a succinct picture of the value and potential of Queensland public libraries. An implementation plan [new window 51 kb] has been developed with QPLA and LGAQ and was approved by the Library Board of Queensland.

An updated strategic positioning paper for Queensland public libraries is currently being developed. For more information see The Next Horizon - Strategic Visioning for Queensland Public Libraries 2013-2017

How can Expanding Horizons be used?

Expanding Horizons articulates the contribution made by public libraries to social and cultural capital, as well as their economic and social benefits to the community. Expanding Horizons also complements council’s local library plans and provides strategies to achieve these goals.

The document is an advocacy tool for Queensland public libraries which can be used within the Council, or to develop partnerships within the community, or used as a strategic resource to showcase the value and potential for libraries in Queensland. The document aims to:

advance the vision and opportunities for public libraries
provide a resource which demonstrates the nature, value and potential for public libraries
increase community and Government understanding of the role of public libraries
identify the critical issues facing public libraries
reflect national and international trends in library best practice
increase community and Government engagement with libraries
support libraries to position themselves strategically within Council and the community
increase the sustainability and profile of public libraries.