TechSoup's Storymakers campaign empowers libraries to tell stories, increase visibility, and make an impact on their communities through digital storytelling.
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The University of Washington Information School (iSchool) has launched the Impact Survey, a new survey tool designed to help public libraries assess how their communities use technology services at the library, and how it has had a positive impact on community member's lives. The survey asks patrons about technology use in the following areas: education, employment, entrepreneurship, health and wellness, eGovernment, civic engagement, eCommerce, and social inclusion.
I spent the last couple of days in beautiful Telluride, Colorado at the R-Squared conference. I'll be blogging about various sessions and ideas over the next week, but thought I would start by sharing a video that was played during the opening session of the conference. Libraries: A Digital Bridge was created by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and is an inspiring 4-minute look at the powerful role computers in libraries play in communities.
As demand for technology resources increase, libraries continue to enhance their traditional services. Public libraries are relied upon for free technology training, job seeking help, and free access to digital media. Last week I joined thousands of librarians at the American Library Association conference and was amazed by all the truly inspirational and fundamental NEEDED work that is being done at our libraries. You'd think I'd already know this after more than 15 years in this field, but librarians never cease to impress me.
Turning the Page 2.0is a unique opportunity for free, in-depth, interactive, online education in public library advocacy. Register for this six week course and get one-on-one attention from professional facilitators as you build a customized Advocacy Work Plan for your library.
Your organization is doing great work, but you may not always be telling that story in a way that resonates with potential donors and other supporters.
I'll admit when I first saw this webinar description, I had to look up the term geocoding. I soon discovered what a great tool it is for advocacy. You can only influence your local, state, and federal legislators if you know how to contact them. If you are new to this process as well, sign up for this webinar to find out more!
We have to focus now, more than ever, on making the case for support of libraries. Today I heard several very disheartening stories from public libraries struggling with budget cuts, dealing with political officials that don't really understand the role of the library, and even supporters who spread misinformation about library goals. It can be difficult to stay motivated in some of these situations. We know how important libraries are and we appreciate the unique and fulfilling role they play in many people's lives.
You can be one of 400 U.S. library systems to join the IMPACT survey pilot. You’ll be provided with free evaluation and advocacy tools useful for measuring and communicating the impact of providing free access to computers and the Internet
