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Conclusion <br />Determining the expansion or improvement of facilities in a library system is a balancing act <br />among many factors, which also change over time. Thus, a comprehensive facilities plan, which <br />is updated at least every 5 years, is recommended for a large system such as Washington <br />County. <br />For the strategic planning process, Library Strategies examined all of these areas, and the <br />findings in the first section of the separate strategic planning report outline many of the <br />directions that may impact building and facilities decisions. These findings, combined with <br />knowledge of other library systems, building projects and various trends contribute to the <br />recommendation that the Washington County Library look at the following factors as most <br />critical in forming a facilities plan: <br />Community needs and aspirations for library service <br />Operational resources <br />The current condition of Library facilities <br />Current location of facilities in the County system as well as associated, community <br />and other metro area libraries. <br />Projected population growth by area <br />The totality of the Library system and provision of service to all residents <br />Assessment of these critical factors, in addition to the other considerations listed above, will <br />assist the County in providing balanced, good Library service for the majority of residents. <br />Library/County leadership will ultimately spearhead decision making, but using the strategic <br />planning process as a starting point, followed by additional staff, community, and expert input <br />on facilities, will ensure that a plan is created that provides for County libraries that are cost- <br />effective, meet community needs, and help the County continue to be "a great place to live, <br />work and play ...today and tomorrow." <br />12 <br />