Wikipedia Shuts Down - But Libraries Never Do

I just saw a great idea on a discussion list. The San Antonia Public Library is taking advantage of the wikipedia shut down.

Missing wikipedia? All that - and more - is available at your library. Just go to www.mysapl.org and click on "Resources" or "Databases," or call (210) 207-2500. And when you find something at the library, you don't have to worry about who's been messing with the entries!

Small and Powerful

Small and Powerful - that's how ALA defines their new toolkit for rural libraries. Recently released the toolkit provides steps to successful advocacy and support building. One success tip really stood out for me:
"Don't wait for a crisis. Make yourself essential."

Included in the toolkit are Steps to Success, Tools for Success and a Sample Message Sheet. Toolkits are available electronically.

So check it out. Share it with your Friends Board, Library Board, staff and volunteers.

Telling The Story

I just found another great video and a sample of how libraries can tell their story.

Author, Chris Bohjalian tells why libraries are so important to him. This could easily be replicated in your community. Find your superstars.

Advocacy - It's Happening in NC

We are busy in the state of North Carolina advocating for our libraries. Recently we had an all day workshop on "Who Speaks for Us". Fabulous information shared from Jamie LaRue, coordinator of the Big Hairy Audacious Goal progam, in Colorado, followed by Bill Millet who shared insights on North Carolina's challenges. Special thanks to UNC-Greensboro Library School who has developed a great website for our advocacy efforts. Check it out.
We have also been visiting many schools throughout NC to spread the message about the importance of getting a library card. And no one better than our great state spokesperson Beaux Foy.

You Can Always Put it On the Front Door

I saw this on another post and thought it interesting. How great this dry cleaners is willing to offer free dry cleaning for individuals needing an interview suit. Perhaps libraries could put a big sign on the front door - Looking for work - we can help - come inside and check us out! I know many libraries have signs inside but perhaps having something outside or actuallY at a different location would attract some customers who normally wouldn't use the library.

pOSTED AT A DRY CLEANERS OUT WEST.
IF YOU ARE UNEMPLOYED AND NEED AN OUTFIT CLEANED FOR AN INTERVIEW WE WILL CLEAN IT FOR FREE!

Great Things Happening in North Carolina

I just returned from the North Carolina Library Association in Hickory. Amazing turnout and the energy was phenomenal. It's great to hear all the wonderful things our libraries are doing - even during these tough times. Thought you might find these resources helpfulfrom the Zero budget Marketing and Merchandising for Your Library Presentation done by staff at the Wake County Library. Some excellent resources to help you improve your promotional efforts. Check it out!
www.wakegov.com/libraries/admin/ncla
You might also want to check out the NCLA website for more information on presentations.
http://www.nclaonline.org/conferences/ncla-59th-biennial-conference-october-4-7-2011-hickory-nc

Rock Star Great Spokes Person for our Libraries

As you notice in the previous post I talked about filming our video for the smartest card campaign. Well it's complete and it's fantastic! Our spokes person, Beaux Foy, shows true passion, excitement and understanding in regards to libraries. We are getting great mileage out of this video.
It's a great hook for marketing. We've found new partners, caught the attention of media, and are buidling a campaign that should sustain us for quite some time.
So enjoy - here's the link to "our" rock star.