Libraries, as we know, are vital centers for all communities, but they become especially important in rural areas like ours.  Our small public libraries host various events, and, coupled with a trip to the post office often become social centers and a regular stopping point for members of the community.

The American Library Association offers good information and advice on gaining support in rural communities.  There’s a free online publication called “The small but powerful guide to winning big support for your rural library,” which outlines some basic steps that can help you gain community support.

The ALA lists 9 basic steps to successful advocacy:

1. Don’t wait for a crisis–make yourself essential

2. Build your team

3. Have a clear, memorable message

4. Target your audiences

5. Identify strategies

6. Practice word-of-mouth marketing

7. Have an enthusiastic, articulate spokesperson

8. Evaluate constantly

9. Don’t stop

 

In addition to these basic steps, the publication offers many suggestions for increasing visibility of your library in your community:

Go where the people are–post notices of your events in post offices, grocery stores, schools; in short, anywhere people go.  Instead of limiting your posters and notices to your own building, get out into the community with your message.

Win friends and influence decision-makers–this means go to meetings, get your supporters to attend meetings and speak to local dignitaries and leaders.  Invite these people to your library, too–make them aware of your work and the important role you play in the community.  Become a regular at town meetings and legislative sessions–don’t just show up at budget time.

Speak successfully–you don’t have to be a dynamic speaker, you just need to be convincing.  If you don’t feel you can speak in public, or are hesitant to meet with local leaders, find someone who can represent your library.  Talk talk talk about the library everywhere you go, and go plenty of places.  People always like to hear stories about what goes on in libraries.

Make the most of the media–don’t overlook the free advertising that comes with news stories.  Don’t wait for a special occasion to make friends with local newspaper, radio and television people.

Build powerful partnerships–we all know there’s strength in numbers, so get on board with community groups and organizations that have similar goals.  And don’t forget to thank them for their support

What tools are important in getting your message across?

A public library’s annual report is not only required in New York State, but it’s a great opportunity to brag.  From basic information to statistics, create an attractive, effective brochure to use as campaign literature.

Business cards are important and often over-looked public relations tools.

A simple fact sheet can be different from your annual report–just the basics, like hours and services you provide can be effective when distributed throughout the community.

Use your website, and maybe develop a blog for a handy, easy way to communicate your message online.

Don’t forget press releases–you never know what story the media will pick up, and you want to be at the top of their human interest stories.

These are just a few ways you can help your library become a high-profile community asset.

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