Value of the Public Library Greta slide 1

Session Purpose In this session, we will talk about the unique value that libraries provide to their communities, and the important role and voice of library staff in making that possible.

Session Agenda In this session, you will: Discuss how your library is unique, and what types of community needs the library helps to address. Compare different ways to think about the true value of the library. Discuss why it is important to communicate the value of libraries and library staff. Identify the strengths that you already have that will help you be a powerful voice for your library.

Discussion: Connecting Library Services to Community Needs

A Unique Role in the Community Free access to information Access to digital technology Services that help people search for jobs and access government resources Public space to meet and share ideas Professional staff to support lifelong learning for everyone who seeks it New skills training and a place to practice them

Changing Community, Changing Library Public libraries adapt when local needs change because of what is happening in the community, the country, or in the world.

Discussion: Tracking How Libraries Adapt

Services and Outcomes Services Outcomes Something a library does or provides The library as a “service provider” Outcomes The end result of those services The library as a “problem solver”

Discussion: From Library Services to Community Outcomes

Who Else Benefits? Family Friends Customers Employers or Employees Neighbors and the Community

Community Perceptions of the Public Library Perceptions—what people in your community think or feel about your library People’s perceptions of the library are shaped by their experiences. Perceptions are not always based on fact. Perceptions can affect library support.

Discussion: Exploring Local Perceptions of the Public Library

The Value of Library Staff You are a professional serving the needs of your community. Your knowledge, experience, and skills are valuable inside and outside the library.

Activity: Drawing Your Job Description

Being a Voice for Your Library Your deep understanding of how the library works and what it can do for the community make you a strong voice to communicate the value of your library to community leaders.

Activity: Practice Using Your Voice

Closing Reviewing our agenda: Discuss how your library is unique, and what types of community needs the library helps to address. Compare different ways to think about the true value of the library. Discuss why it is important to communicate the value of libraries and library staff. Identify the strengths that you already have that will help you be a powerful voice for your library.

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