This online tutorial teaches library staff how to advocate for their library from the frontlines. It explains that all library staff have opportunities to influence how others perceive the library, regardless of their specific job duties. The tutorial provides examples of "frontline advocacy interactions" where staff can promote the library's strengths and needs during conversations with patrons. It emphasizes that library staff are the best advocates because they interact directly with patrons and understand their library and community.
2. Welcome!
Everyone who works in a library has
opportunities to influence what others think
image coming
about that library.
The purpose of this online tutorial is to help
you get fresh ideas about how you can be
an effective advocate for your library, both
on and off the job.
The tutorial is easy. Read at your own
pace, and click on the interactive features
that catch your eye. It should only take
about 20 minutes.
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7. Who me?
We all have our comfort zones when it comes to
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sharing messages about our libraries and the support
they need. Your personal comfort zone may start with
talking to a family member, friend or neighbor.
Practice until you feel like stretching yourself a little bit,
then share your library’s good points and needs with
someone you know less well. Keep it short and
simple.
Your library will benefit from what you have to say and
you’ll benefit from the confidence that comes from
doing something you thought you could do.
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26. Timing is everything
It’s true. Take advantage of that timing. For example:
• What if a member of your book club has just announced she’s expecting
her first child? Tell that perspective parent about materials or
programming your library has on prenatal care. Let her know that your
library wants to add programs for toddlers.
• What about college students who are leaving to study abroad? Let the students
know what your college library has to offer to prepare them for living in their
new country, and be sure their teachers know that your library is the first place
students go to find that information.
• What if your organization has just taken a new client or partner on
board? Gather some helpful information on them and share it with your
corporate colleagues. Remind your colleagues that the resources your
organization subscribes to allow you to gather this information quickly.
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29. • Tell a parent you bump into at the store that your library will
soon be open longer hours for students.
• Let a colleague in another department know that
your library has begun subscribing to a new
database he might find helpful.
See? its easy! Once those individuals realize the benefits they derive,
encourage them to step up and help your library keep those resources - and
gain new ones. Click here to learn more.
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