Q. What is generally meant by strategic planning?

Preparing a strategic plan that meets MBLC requirements involves a 3-6 month effort and the involvement of members of the community the library serves. It should set goals and objectives that the library, network, or organization wants to happen during that timeframe that will help the library move towards meeting its mission and vision. 

There is no required process or specific instructions. Many of ALA's divisions offer planning guides, such as the Public Library Association (PLA), the Association of College & Research Libraries (ACRL), and the American Association of School Librarians (AASL).

Several planning processes are available to serve as guidelines for public libraries, along with sample plans and community survey questions (see links below).