Library Futures and Community Engagement Intern

Library Futures and Community Engagement Intern

Shutesbury Public Library
66 Leverett Road
Shutesbury, MA 01072
Mary Anne Antonellis, Director

Placement Plan for Samantha Spisiak – Spring 2026

Host Site: Shutesbury Library
Site Supervisor: Mary Anne Antonellis
Student Intern: Samantha Spisiak
Placement Dates: Spring 2026 Semester
Overview:
The Shutesbury Library is in a period of exciting transformation as we prepare to open our new library building and begin planning for the next phase of our development. Sam’s placement will focus on community outreach and engagement and on developing a new long-range plan to guide the library’s work over the next five years.
Project Goals and Scope:
Sam will play a key role in laying the groundwork for the library’s next strategic plan. The current long-range plan extends through 2026, making this an ideal time to begin the planning process for the following five-year cycle. Her primary responsibilities will include:
1. Community Engagement and Communications


o Develop a communications plan in collaboration with library stakeholders.


o Conduct a community assessment to understand current needs, interests, and perceptions of the library.


o Design and implement a data collection approach to gather input from community members.


o Collect and analyze both new and existing data relevant to the library’s programs and services.


2. Strategic Planning Development


o Identify major themes and key findings from the community assessment to inform the long-range plan.


o Facilitate the definition of the library’s mission, vision, and values.


o Work with staff, trustees, and community partners to define strategic priorities and goals.


o Conduct a SOAR (Strengths, Opportunities, Aspirations, Results) analysis to guide planning discussions.


3. Community Programming Support


o Assist with the planning and implementation of library programs designed to engage the community and highlight the resources and opportunities of the new library building.


Expected Outcomes:
By the end of the placement, Sam will produce:
• A summary report of the community assessment, including major themes and key findings.


• A draft framework for the new long-range plan, including proposed mission, vision, values, and strategic goals.

Supervision and Evaluation:
Sam will meet regularly with the Library Director for guidance, feedback, and discussion of progress. Collaboration with library staff, trustees, and community partners will be encouraged throughout the process.