Planning for the Multitype Library Cooperative (MLC) is critical if it is to best assist the library community. Multitype Library Cooperatives are unique organizations in the library community that serve as the "libraries" library, providing various special services. This book is a companion volume and handbook to "Strategic Planning for Library Multitype Cooperatives: Samples and Examples." The manual melds conventional long-range planning; with focused strategic planning; it contains philosophical underpinnings of the planning process; instructions on how to use the process; worksheets, exhibits, and examples to help planners use the process; and two introductory chapters. The seven chapters make up the body of the work include the following phases: (1) Planning to Plan; (2) Environmental Scan Needs Assessment (ESNA); (3) Vision, Mission, and Values; (4) Analyzing ESNA, Setting Direction and Measuring Results; (5) Revisiting the Vision and Mission; (6) Implementation; and (7) Monitor and Evaluate. Includes bibliography and short cuts to the planning process. (AEF)