Strong Libraries for a Strong America.wmv

North Carolina librarians created a wonderful video which they used in DC for the ALA legislative day. A great way to tell the story of North Carolina libraries.

Creative Publicity

New Hanover Public Library in Wilmington, NC did a great job with this creative, humorous video to publicize their library services.

Children Enthralled with Spokesperson

Our state spokesperson for the library card campaign continues to travel the state and visit schools and libraries with us. He is making such an impact on our target audiences of teens, preteens and children. We've seen huge increases in our library card registrations and some great collaborative efforts between our school libraries and our public libraries. A great thing to remember - partnerships builds your ability to market you libraries better. Thought you'd enjoy this recent photo of Beaux Foy at Holly Grove Elementary in Raleigh.

Creative Book Art

Ruth Ann Copley, Director of Davidson Public Library, recently shared a great idea about a contest in their library. The Creative Book Art challenges contestants to create art using books as the medium. They can use book pages, book covers, any part of the book to create art. The winners will be included in the library's promotional calendar. Can't wait to see what folks create!

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.