Strategic Planning for Public Libraries

Larry Neal has served as Director of Clinton-Macomb Public Library since 2006, where he oversees a three-facility library system serving 180,000 residents with a $9M annual budget and 150 staff members. After completing degrees including an MBA from Oakland University and MSI-LIS from the University of Michigan, he has built an impressive 40-year career in public library leadership. His tenure at CMPL has been marked by significant achievements including successful bond issuances, facility expansions, and innovative service improvements. As past president of both the Michigan Library Association and Public Library Association, he has shaped library policy at state and national levels. His expertise in library finance and strategic planning led him to develop two MOOCs for the University of Michigan School of Information, while his leadership in grassroots advocacy resulted in successful millage campaigns for both Bloomfield Hills and CMPL. Currently serving as an ALA Policy Corps Fellow and candidate for ALA Treasurer 2025-2028, he continues to advance library services while managing CMPL's $14.3M Main Library renovation project. His contributions to the field have earned numerous recognitions, including Michigan Library Association's Librarian of the Year and Library Journal Mover & Shaker status, demonstrating his commitment to innovative library leadership and community service.