No and Low-Cost Library Programming

Instructor: Lynn Whitehouse

Public libraries have long provided educational programs as part of their outreach to the communities they serve. With budget constraints and cutbacks, it is becoming increasingly difficult to continue this endeavor. If you need or want to create no or low cost programs to enable your library to continue to fulfill this part of its mission ... this is the workshop for you.

In this workshop you will:

• Learn to identify the kinds of programs that are no cost or low cost
• Learn to develop strategies for finding no or low cost program presenters
• Learn to identify community partners
• Learn to create different programming based on your unique library collections and community

After attending this workshop, you will have the necessary tools to create a successful program without first having to become a success at amassing funds!

Workshop Description: This all-day workshop will introduce participants to the many types of no-cost or low-cost programming and provide proven tools and strategies for designing and implementing programs for libraries of any size. Emphasis will be on learning to implement programs using your own library's collection as well as learning what local resources are available. Attendees will participate in a sample program as well as design a program for their library. The instructor will provide a variety of practical tips that can be applied immediately, as well as a bibliography of useful resources that can be used and shared after the class.

Pre-workshop assignment: Please bring a profile of your community or library's service area: age and ethnic groups, major industries…any important facts. We will use these as tools when setting the groundwork for your own programs. In addition to the community profile, bring your ideas of what makes a successful or exciting program.

Preliminary Course Outline

• Laying the Foundation: Trends and Community Profiles
  • Factors that influence programming ideas
  • Benefits of knowing your community make-up
  • How does the media/popular interest affect demand?
  • Using previous program evaluations and attendance to guide your choices
• Basics of Library Programming
  • Developing the program: does your library have guidelines?
  • Creating partnerships
  • Formats: which room and equipment will work best?
  • Outreach: publicity strategies
• Creating Programs
  • Designing single events
  • Designing a series
  • Applying for grants
• Learn about Facilitating a Program
  • Participate in a sample program

Who Should Attend: Anyone who is responsible for or interested in providing no cost/low cost adult programming.

Prerequisites: None

Check-in: 8:30 to 9:00 AM Instruction: 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM

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