Joe Clark Performing Arts Library Kent State University

In 2008, Kent State’s Music Library closed during building renovation Reopened in August 2010 as the Performing Arts Library, and acquired theatre and dance materials from Main library Doubled the library’s constituency I arrived to Kent State in June 2010

To bring back former patrons who learned to live without us, To bring in new patrons, both from the university & local community, and Develop events & series that make the library part of the university experience and engender student and faculty success.

We lacked extensive unique holdings, so looked to user-centered activities Our building features three major activities: musical performances, theatre/dance productions, and scholarship Was sure not to compete with existing programs, and spoke with many to ensure we didn’t step on toes Looked for win-win partnerships

Annual Open House Open Mic Lunch The Director Speaks The Performing Arts Library Colloquium Series Pizza with the Dean Next fall, we will add student research workshops (not covered today)

Began as our Grand Opening Celebration Had 200+ guests Live dance, music, and theatrical performances An opportunity to meet and talk with students and faculty; also provided an chance for library administrators from Main library to meet our users

Make it an annual event Ours in during the fall semester (usually the third week of classes) Invite everyone; use , flyers, small flyers in mailboxes, banners, social media, and the personal invites Light refreshments Entertainment if possible

Opportunity for students, faculty and community members to come together and perform in a casual atmosphere Began with one event during fall 2010, and expanded to three during spring 2011 Occurs on the first Friday of the month during the heart of the semester

Director and designers discuss their production (theatrical or musical) Enhances the experience for audience members (both internal & external) Began in spring 2011 with two events: Handel’s opera Semele and Shakespeare’s Hamlet

Provide opportunities for students and faculty to present their research in a supportive environment Began in spring 2011 Worked with a faculty member to ensure two dates Third date featured two distinguished faculty members – one from music and one from theatre

An opportunity for development/donors Increases our visibility on campus, with lots of promotion and word of mouth Engenders goodwill towards the library Reaches out to those that might not come in; participants feel ownership of library Use branding & logos If possible, have it catered

Joe Clark