Advocating for library services has never been more important. Libraries across the nation face diminished budgets and staff cuts, while usage soars and the community expects more services and resources. Cultivating relationships with notable community members—including government officials and school board members—to help your library meet its mission is critical in the current economic climate. Librarians will learn tools to engage VIPs and get them to offer their support in YALSA’s May 20 webinar, “VIPs: Why You Need Them for Advocacy.” The webinar will take place May 20 at 2 p.m. EDT.
Karen Keys will lead the discussion, which will explore how librarians and library workers can grow their library program by improving communication and developing professional relationships with local town councilors, school board members, Chamber of Commerce members and so on. The webinar will discuss the importance of involving community movers and shakers by reaching out to them regularly and educating them about the critical role libraries play in helping communities thrive.
Webinars cost $39 for individual YALSA members and $49 for all other individuals. Registration is open at www.ala.org/yalsa/webinars. YALSA also offers a group rate of $195, available by contacting Eve Gaus, YALSA’s program officer for continuing education, at egaus@ala.org or 1 (800) 545-2433, ext. 5293.