PDA Event: No More Neutral: How to Use Marketing to Position Your Library in Challenging Times

On top of everything else they need to do, libraries increasingly find themselves at the center of controversy. The American Library Association reports a substantial increase in the number of book bans and challenges in 2021 (double the number of reports from 2020). Oftentimes, the library’s efforts to create collection and service policies that fulfill its mission statement of inclusion are the focus of these challenges. These attacks cost money and lower morale and productivity amongst the staff of libraries. They also threaten the very existence of libraries as safe spaces. But libraries do have some power, and it comes in the form of promotion. In this session, you’ll learn marketing tactics you can use now to clarify your library’s policies, solidify your library’s positions, and clearly communicate your mission, vision, and values. And you’ll hear tactics to use to rally community and stakeholder support to your defense if your library should face such a challenge. 

After attending the workshop, participants will understand: 

• Concrete tips for strengthening the public’s perception of the library now, including tips on how to promote their mission, vision, and values, the policies they create to protect intellectual freedom, and their place in the community as a safe and welcoming space. 
• Marketing strategies for handling a censorship challenge, including strategies for responding to statements from critics via email, social media, and in the press. 
• Promotional ideas designed to rally library supporters to their defense. 

Register to attend.

Sponsored by BLC