The Libraries' Mission Statement was written in 1990 by the library faculty. 

Definition:

A mission statement should say:
1. who you are,
2. what you do,
3. what you stand for, and
4. why you do it.
 

Evaluation Criteria:

1. A mission statement is not a slogan, goal, business plan, ad or public relations piece. 
2. An effective mission statement is best developed with input by all the members of an organization. Even if certain members think it is silly or have no ideas (both are common) they will buy into the concept more if their opinion is solicited. 
3. The best mission statements are 3-4 sentences long. 
4. Effective mission statements take time, usually at least a week or two. This allows for input and final editing. 
5. It is a good idea to examine other mission statements to get approaches to yours. 
6. Humor, sarcasm, cynicism and eloquence are usually not good components of an effective mission statement. Simplicity, honesty and frankness are. 
7. Avoid saying how great you are, what great quality and what great service you provide. Using these concepts makes you indistinguishable from the rest. 
8. Effective mission statements need not set the world on fire. Lofty statements have little credibility. The best ones are direct and powerful. 
9. Make certain your statement is you and not some other company. That is why you should not copy a statement. Even if your statement is a little unpolished it will appear to have more credibility and integrity than if it portrays you as something you are not. 
10. Make certain you believe in your statement. If you do not believe it, it is a lie. Everyone that deals with you will know it is a lie. 
11. Try to relay somewhere in your statement that you understand the future of your business depends on delivering increasing value and quality to your customers, accounts and clients. This delivers a clear message of your priorities. 
12. Review and edit your statement on a regular basis. 
13. Make certain all in your organization get a copy of the statement. Use it in your personnel manual, business meetings and post it in the workplace. 
 
 

An effective mission statement should be able to tell your story in less than 30 seconds. Train all in your organization to do it in 30 seconds or less. This is not only good practice but good image enhancement as well. It provides a consistent picture of your company and a purpose for all in your organization. If your mission statement can deliver it will be mission accomplished. 
 

Jack D. Deal, "How to Create and Use a Mission Statement," The Small Business Journal, 3 no. 4 (2001) http://www.tsbj.com/editorial/03040503.htm.