Mahwah Library lays out 2025–2030 strategic plan, seeks wider township partnerships

The Mahwah Public Library on Thursday told the Township Council its Strategic Plan for 2025–2030 centers on deepening community connections and expanding programming to address local needs.

Jen Park, president of the Mahwah Library Board of Trustees, and Kurt Hadeler, the library director, delivered the plan and described goals that include partnering with local schools, religious organizations and the Township to improve access to social services and to design new events aimed at increasing community use of the library.

Mr. Hadeler emphasized that the plan is intended to “enrich lives” by strengthening the library’s role as a community hub and noted the library’s interest in collaborative programming with municipal departments and local nonprofits. He told the Council the board and staff are seeking concrete opportunities to align the library’s calendar, outreach and resources with school schedules and existing social‑service providers.

Council members did not take immediate action on the plan at the Feb. 5 work session. The presentation was entered into the meeting record; library officials said they will follow up with Township administration and relevant subcommittees to pursue the collaborations discussed.

If adopted as a working plan by the library board and supported by Township staff, the measures could include joint events, shared outreach to underserved residents, and pilot programs that the Township might consider for grant funding. Library leaders said they will keep the Council updated on specific partnership proposals and any budgetary requests that would require Council approval.