Creating Virtual Programs for Adults

• Do you create programming for adults?
• Now, with COVID-19, are you trying to figure out the best way to create virtual programming?
• Are you interested in learning the pros and cons of various platforms that can be used to deliver virtual programs?
• Would you like to demonstrate the impact of your virtual programming?

Creating and hosting meaningful and engaging programs in a virtual environment provides many unique opportunities to engage audiences in new ways. However, it also presents a new set of challenges. Some in-person programs can be transformed to the virtual environment with ease, while others may take considerable time and effort to adapt. This course will examine the landscape of the last 8 months to explore what has been successful in virtual programming for libraries, museums, performing arts centers, and other arts-based institutions. In addition to developing ideas about what public programs to offer at your institution, the course will also involve examining online platform options (including the pros and cons of each) and discussing best practices for tracking program outcomes and statistics to prove value to stakeholders.

Course Description: This four-week course will include two interactive online sessions:

• February 2, 2021 at 10 AM Pacific/11 AM Mountain/12 PM Central/1 PM Eastern
• February 16, 2021 at 10 AM Pacific/11 AM Mountain/12 PM Central/1 PM Eastern

The online sessions will be recorded for those who cannot attend during the scheduled time.

In addition to the scheduled sessions, the instructor will provide examples, resources, best practices, and useful tips and techniques that can be used as you develop programming plans that meet the needs of your community. During the course, you will participate in discussion forums, with an opportunity to share your experiences and questions, alongside others who are working to create engaging virtual programming, too. Through assignments, you will apply the concepts to your own institution and community.

Course Outline: When you log in to the Infopeople online learning site, you will see weekly modules with these topics:

• Week 1: Getting Started
  • Understand the development, breadth and scope of virtual programs and events
  • Explore examples of successful programs
  • Assess the programming needs and interests in your community
• Week 2: Platforms for Virtual Programs
  • Pros and cons of platform options
  • Selecting the best platform for your needs
  • Curating programs based on platforms
  • Anticipating and handling technical hurdles for staff, attendees, and speakers/performers
• Week 3: Creating and Marketing Virtual Programs
  • Prepare to host a virtual program from initial steps to finalized copy
  • Clearly describing the technical details people will need to access the program
  • Successfully getting the word out about virtual programs
• Week 4: Evaluating the Impact of Virtual Programs
  • Gathering meaningful and accurate statistics
  • Assessing outcomes
  • Using data and feedback to plan for the future

Time Required: To complete this course, you can expect to spend 2 hours per week, for a total of eight course hours.

Who Should Take This Course: Public, academic, and special librarians who work with adults. Museum curators and events staff. Performing arts organizations seeking to enhance virtual outreach and programs.

Online Learning Details and System Requirements may be found at: infopeople.org/training/online_learning_details.

Are you a member of ARSL? If so, you may be able to sign up for a free seat in this course. Limit is four free seats per course. Make your request here and if a free seat is available you will be notified.

Keywords: adult services,programming