Marketing and advocacy go hand-in-hand. Advocacy is telling your library’s story. Those who influence funding for libraries cannot make informed decisions if they do not understand the scope of your mission. Most librarians haven’t practiced the political skills needed to work with various community leaders. At times their interests may seem to conflict with your library. How do you advocate without lobbying? This session explores how to easily market your library to elected officials. No secret handshakes or big budgets needed.

During the webinar, audience members are engaged by the voice of the presenter. There is a line between being enthusiastic and over selling the topic. How information is presented is just as important as the information. Pacing to create energy and enthusiasm keeps the audience engaged. A quick one question quiz at the beginning of the presentation will immediately engage the attendees. The results immediately lead into the importance of the topic. While an upbeat pace is important, allowing participants to respond to questions and share their own experiences keeps them invested in the topic.

Those who serve state library agencies, library cooperatives, and library consultants will have immediate information they can share with their members or clients. Specialized libraries sometimes feel that they have to work harder to explain their mission. This session will provide steps that can be done immediately and without a large budget.