Mission, Vision, and Values

Mission

To welcome all people to connect, learn, participate and grow.

Vision

A city that works for all, where libraries bring people together to experience hope and unlock new possibilities.

Values

We believe in connection.

Libraries help people connect to information, resources, and each other. The library is open and welcoming, where all people can find comfortable, joyful access to space, technology, materials, and support.

We believe in innovation.

Libraries must continually transform to serve community needs – today and in the future. Every day, the library finds new ways to cultivate empathy and unlock potential, igniting collective curiosity through creative exploration and discovery.

We believe in resilience.

The library is a place for quiet reflection and boisterous activity, for likeness and for difference. It is a brave space for public participation: to exchange ideas and build human relationships, power, and community. As part of the foundation of a city’s social infrastructure, libraries are essential to community resilience.

We believe in the power of belonging.

Libraries are a safe place where all people can see themselves actively reflected, supported, and celebrated. The library acknowledges and rejects racism, white supremacy and hate of all kinds, and is committing to a public future that delivers truth, fairness, dignity, respect, and healing so all library users can thrive.

Library Experience Promise

We welcome you.

​​​​​We listen with curiosity and create connections.

We build spaces for likeness and difference.

We practice anti-racism and racial healing work.

We celebrate the joy of discovery.

We are here because of you.

This is our Library Experience Promise.

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