Few programming librarians receive training in how to market their programs to the public, though they’re often required to handle marketing tasks as part of their job. Who needs support in this area the most? A survey shows that library workers with more years on the job are actually less confident when it comes to marketing tasks, with one exception.…
Many programming librarians perform some tasks to market their programs to their communities. They tend to be fairly confident in their abilities to handle these tasks—but there is still room for improvement. Public programming has increasingly become a core part of library work in the 21st century, but few library workers (including many with MLIS degrees) have received any training…
Caring communities promote compassion, empathy, and prosocial behaviors. They help people make commitments to each other, and foster a sense of social responsibility. Libraries can contribute to this through programs that care for the community’s most vulnerable members, and that promote kindness, justice, tolerance, and concern for others.
Joyful communities create spaces where people can come together to have fun, be entertained, enjoy each other’s company, celebrate each other’s lives, and affirm both their histories and the futures they’re making. Libraries can contribute to this through programs that meet people’s needs for entertainment and amusement, and that build a sense of pride within the community.
Welcoming communities exhibit positive attitudes toward newcomers and cultural diversity, and are committed to protecting and promoting human rights. Libraries can contribute to this through multilingual collections development, multilingual programming, and events that allow newcomers and longtime residents to socialize.
Economically vital communities create the conditions that promote economic development, prosperity, and the equitable use of community goods, services, and natural and human resources. Libraries can contribute to this through financial education programs, courses on entrepreneurship training, job training programs, and by providing assistance on how to apply for social services and financial aid.
Healthy communities take responsibility for individual and collective wellbeing in ways that help people lead physically and mentally healthy lives. Libraries can contribute to this by collaborating with health providers, by hosting classes on nutrition and physical activity, and by combating health misinformation.
Civically engaged communities encourage people to play an active role in public life and community governance. Libraries can contribute to this by hosting community conversations, by connecting people with volunteering opportunities, by offering civics education courses, and by helping people register to vote.
Creative communities nurture the arts and promote participation in all manner of cultural productions. Libraries can contribute to this through workshops, maker fairs, exhibitions, performances, and other programs that increase access to the arts.
Knowledgeable communities make it easy for people to access reliable information on a wide range of topics, and help them acquire the critical thinking skills needed to make evidence-based decisions. Libraries can contribute to this through programs that promote media literacy, challenge censorship, and create opportunities for citizen journalism.
