PARTNERING WITH SCIENCE ORGANIZATIONS | BROADEN YOUR POOL OF PARTNERS | OHIO PROGRAM sparks success PublicLibraries A PUBLICATION OF THE PUBLIC ASSOCIATION MAY / JUNE 2021 PLA 2022

The Public Library Association is a division of the American Library Association

Don't miss the premier event for public library professionals-PLA 2022 Conference! Save the date and start your planning to join us next year in Portland, OR, March 23-25. We've learned and grown so much since PLA 2020, and we can't wait to share what we have in store.

www.placonference.org MAY / JUNE 2021 60 NUMBER 3 Contents PUBLICLIBRARIESONLINE.ORG ISSN 0163-5506

18 26 34

Columns FEATURES

2 13 18 FROM THE EDITOR BEST PRACTICES Partnering KATHLEEN M. HUGHES Reinforcing Purpose with Science and Motivation to Organizations 3 Sustain Regional Library ERIKA FITZPATRICK FROM THE PRESIDENT Cooperatives May Your KRISTA RIGGS 26 Partnerships Flourish! Beyond the MICHELLE JESKE 42 Usual Prospects: By the Broaden Your 5 Ask, Listen, Empower Pool of Partners PLA NEWS CATHERINE HAKALA-AUSPERK and Nurture Innovative 7 46 Partnerships On My Mind info-graphic To Pitch or Not to Pitch? Benchmark Briefings KRISTIN LINSCOTT Post-Pandemic Library– for Peer Comparison Business Partnerships NELLIE BARRETT 34 ELEKTRA GREER Partnership SPARKs Success 9 in School EDISJ Matters Readiness Reaching the Unreached: MARIANNA DIGIACOMO Evaluating BIPOC Partnership Development CHRISTINA FULLER-GREGORY

ON THE COVER: design by Karen Sheets de Gracia; Artwork by Prostock-studio/ADOBE STOCK

VOLUME 60 Number 3 PUBLIC 1 EDITORIAL EDITOR: Kathleen M. Hughes From the Editor CONTRIBUTING EDITORS: Christina Fuller-Gregory, Kathleen M. Hughes / [email protected] Sara S. Goek, Catherine Hakala-Ausperk, Krista Riggs ADVISORY COMMITTEE Kimberly Knight, Alexandria (VA) Public Library (chair); Keturah Cappadonia, Southern Tier Library System (NY); Mary Ellen Kathleen is currently Icaza, Stark County (OH) Public Library; Theresa Jehlik, Omaha  (NE) Public Library; James Jones, Broward County (FL) Library; You Never Forget Your First: A Biography of Melanie Lyttle, Madison (WI) Public Library; Theresa Mayer, King George Washington by Alexis Coe County (WA) Library System; Alison McCarty, Jacksonville (FL) Public Library; Holly Okuhara, Weber County (UT) Library System; Kristine Springer, St. Joseph County (IN) Public Library; Allison Stevens, Calhoun County (AR) Library “If you want to travel quickly, go alone. PLA PRESIDENT: Michelle Jeske, Denver City Librarian, [email protected] If you want to travel far, go together.” PUBLIC LIBRARIES (ISSN 0163-5506) is published bimonthly by the American Library Association (ALA), 50 E. t’s a maxim that many in the library and nonprofit Huron St., Chicago, IL 60611. It is the official publication of the Public Library Association, a division of ALA. Subscription price: worlds are familiar with; though it is a timeworn to members of PLA, $25 a year, included in membership dues; phrase, there is truth in it. Strategic partnerships can to nonmembers: US $65; Canada $75; all other countries $75. I Single copies, $10. Periodicals postage paid at Chicago, IL, and at offer many benefits including expanding the library’s additional mailing offices. reach, enhancing programs and services, and improving POSTMASTER: SEND ADDRESS CHANGES TO PUBLIC LIBRARIES, community engagement. Carefully considered partnerships 225 N. MICHIGAN AVE., SUITE 1300, CHICAGO, IL 60601-7616. can amplify your library’s effectiveness and impact. SUBSCRIPTIONS However, joining forces to make a difference is not always Nonmember subscriptions, orders, changes of address, and inquiries should be sent to Public Libraries, Subscription Department, easy. In this issue we offer plenty to consider as you American Library Association, 225 N. Michigan Ave., Suite 1300, Chicago, IL 60601-7616; 1-800-545-2433, press 5; fax: (312) 944- think about partnerships for your library. “Partnering 2641; [email protected]. with Science Organizations” (p. 18) explores data from a ADVERTISING study of partnerships between science organizations and For advertising information, visit www.ala.org/pla/publications/ public libraries and shows how such relationships can be advertise or e-mail Matt McLaughlin, [email protected]. mutually beneficial; “Beyond the Usual Prospects” (p. 26) PRODUCTION & DESIGN ALA Production Services explores outside-the-box ideas for library partnerships, MANUSCRIPTS and “Partnership SPARKs Success in School Readiness” See www.pla.org for submission instructions. For queries/questions, (p. 34) shares the details of a successful kindergarten contact Kathleen Hughes, [email protected]. readiness partnership. There is much more on the topic as INDEXING/ABSTRACTING well. Public Libraries is indexed in Library Literature and Current Index to Journals in Education (CIJE), in addition to a number of online services. Contents are abstracted in Library and Information New Beginnings Science Abstracts. Public Libraries is indexed, abstracted, and available in full text As we emerge from the pandemic, it feels like a blank slate, through EBSCOhost. For more information, contact EBSCO at an opportunity for a fresh start. Following that thought, 1-800-653-2726. Public Libraries is also available from ProQuest Information and here at PLA we have a new executive director. Read all Learning. For more information, call 1-800-521-0600, ext. 2888, or about Mary Davis Fournier on page 7. Call it kismet, but in visit www.proquest.com. a totally unplanned coincidence, she also appears in this © 2021 by the American Library Association All materials in this journal are subject to copyright by the month’s By the Book column (p. 42) talking about her and American Library Association and may be photocopied for the Sarah Ostman’s recent publication Ask, Listen, Empower— noncommercial purpose of scientific or educational advancement granted by Sections 107 and 108 Grounding Your Library Work in Community Engagement. of the Copyright Revision Act Check it out! of 1976. For other reprinting, photocopying, or translating, PLA staff members are also busy planning for our address requests to the ALA face-to face (!) conference (PLA 2022, March 23–25, Office of Rights and Permissions, 225 N. Michigan Ave., Suite Portland, Oregon). To find out more about PLA 2022 visit 1300, Chicago, IL 60601-7616. www.placonference.org. PL

2 2PUBLIC PUBLIC LIBRARIES LIBRARIES VOLUME VOLUME 60 60Number Number 3 3 FROM THE PRESIDENT FROM THE PRESIDENT May Your Partnerships Flourish! Michelle Jeske / [email protected]

Michelle Jeske is Denver City Librarian, Denver (CO) Public Library.  Michelle is currently reading Bride of the Sea by Eman Quotah.

he public library mission work more effectively together partnerships come in. The Denver is so broad that, in my than on their own separate paths. Public Library is co-leading Den- Texperience, we often find In Denver, we’ve certainly ver’s digital equity plan with our ourselves stretched thin by trying seen city agencies and commu- City’s Office of Economic Devel- to do everything. There are many nity partners more interested in opment and Opportunity. Part- remedies to that, one being the working with us than ever ners include the housing author- development and maintenance of before. This is particularly true ity, school district, multiple strong partnerships. It’s difficult with those concerned about the nonprofits serving specific popu- to imagine how we could have growing digital divide that has lations such as immigrants and gotten through this past year been exacerbated by this pan- refugees, and even a computer without partners in the commu- demic. While public library programming school. While Den- nity. Having established partner- workers have long been aware of ver already had a number of pub- ships ahead of a crisis is certainly this divide, it seems like a new lic and private organizations helpful when you find yourself in challenge to others in the com- working on digital equity issues, a crisis. munity. We have long known that they had been doing so without Winston Churchill is credited stable, affordable digital access is leadership coordination and stra- with first saying, “Never let a critical for students, job seekers, tegic collaboration. The intended good crisis go to waste.” Many those seeking benefits and health outcome of the citywide digital have said it since, of course, care, and many others. equity plan is a more effective and because it’s good advice. No one Public libraries have an exten- efficient response to the unique wants to be in crisis but it often sive reach in our communities, digital equity needs of Denver’s provides the impetus to make being both trusted and well used. communities. Many other cities, necessary and important We also have resources—in this including Austin, Portland, and advances. Sometimes great part- case, technology and internet Long Beach, have already suc- nerships get started during a access—but clearly making a dent cessfully adopted formal digital crisis when it becomes more in the digital divide takes a whole equity plans to align the work of obvious how organizations can community, and that’s where city agencies and local nonprofits

VOLUME 60 Number 3 PUBLIC LIBRARIES 3 From the President / May Your Partnerships Flourish! around strategic goals and mea- hotspots to those most impacted for you and your library, and PLA surable outcomes. by the digital divide and has part- also seeks partnerships itself to Across the country, there are nered with local organizations to support our collective work. One many great examples of lend them to people with disabil- great example is the set of part- long-standing and burgeoning ities, refugees, low-income work- ners PLA has worked with to partnerships to support digital ers, and people experiencing create DigitalLead (http://www equity. In Pottsboro, Texas, the homelessness. .ala.org/pla/initiatives/digital public library obtained a mobile These are but a few of the many lead)—Microsoft, TechSoup, and hotspot trailer from the Informa- innovative—sometimes simple, Mobile Beacon. While broadband tion Technology Disaster sometimes complex—ways librar- access is challenging in all com- Resource Center and installed it ies are partnering with others to munities, it’s particularly difficult where free public Wi-Fi access extend Wi-Fi outside of library in rural areas where one-third of was needed. The library also led buildings, bring connectivity to all families have no home broad- an initiative to get local busi- neighborhoods in need, circulate band connection. Thanks to PLA, nesses to open their Wi-Fi net- technology directly to individuals these partner organizations, and works to the public. In South and organizations, and offer virtual all library participants for work- Carolina, Richland Library and in-library support for urgent ing on this together! placed Wi-Fi hotspots in Colum- tasks requiring digital access and We don’t have time, our most bia Housing Authority Areas skills. We’ve seen many inspira- precious resource, to waste. It’s while Union Library partnered tional examples of new and imperative that we figure out with the Union Detention Center strengthened library partnerships which partnerships to to expand Wi-Fi reach there. In with local governments, nonprof- strengthen, which to attempt to Colorado, the Buena Vista Public its, businesses, and other organiza- start, and just as importantly, Library has partnered with the tions to help people access vital which to bring to a close. These town to expand its public Wi-Fi resources to survive and ulti- aren’t easy choices; they are service to a local park. In Wash- mately, we hope, to thrive. worth the time and effort. May ington, the Seattle Public Library Your Public Library Associa- your partnerships and communi- has dedicated one-third of its tion (PLA) is also a great partner ties flourish! PL

PublicLibrariesONLINE publiclibrariesonline.org Digital Highlights

Online Training: Libraries as Community Hubs for Citizen Science With support from the National Library of Medicine, SciStarter, a popular citizen science platform, assembled a team with expertise in instructional design, education, libraries, inclusive practices, digital design, micro accreditation, and, of course, citizen science to produce a free series of self-guided tutori- als, trainings, and accompanying modules to help people from all walks of life discover and engage in authentic science. The two-part training and supplemental resources are designed to help facilitators, including librarians, library staff, educators, and other community conduits, learn about and introduce citizen and community science to their audiences. Read the entire article here: http://publiclibrariesonline. org/2021/05/online-training-libraries-as-community-hubs-for-citizen-science/

4 PUBLIC LIBRARIES VOLUME 60 Number 3 PLA NEWS FULL COVERAGE OF ASSOCIATION NEWS AND EVENTS AT PLA.ORG

Election Results Advancing Family In April, PLA announced the results of its 2021 Engagement in Libraries election. The members elected Dr. Maria Taesil Hudson McCauley, director of libraries at the A PLA Professional Cambridge (MA) Public Library, to the office of Development Series 2022–2023 PLA president. McCauley will serve a three-year term beginning this June and including Tuesday, 9/14/2021 – Tuesday, 3/22/2022 one-year stints as president-elect (2021–2022), Based on the Public Library Association’s Family president (2022–2023), and immediate past- Engagement framework, this professional devel- president (2023–2024). Also elected to the PLA opment series board as directors-at-large were Erica will enable pub- Freudenberger, outreach, engagement, and mar- lic library pro- keting consultant, Southern Adirondack Library fessionals to System, Saratoga Springs, New York, and Candice expand and Wing-yee Mack, administrator, Young Adult Ser- refine their cur- vices, Los Angeles Public Library. Each will serve a rent family engagement programming and strat- three-year term beginning in June 2021. egies and plan for new programs and services. Pelayo-Lozada Wins 2022–2023 ALA Presidency Each cohort of this series will consist of eight Lessa Kanani’opua Pelayo-Lozada, adult services virtual classroom sessions, each led by experi- assistant manager, Palos Verdes Library District, enced facilitators from the PLA Family Engage- Rolling Hills Estates, California, has been elected ment Task Force. Participants will also engage in 2021–2022 president-elect of the American small-group work and facilitated discussions Library Association (ALA). Pelayo-Lozada is the with their peers. Visit http://www.ala.org/pla/ first Emerging Leader to be elected ALA presi- education /onlinelearning/feseries for more dent; she was part of the 2011 class. information.

Help Job Seekers Get New Skills, Certifications Free learning paths and LinkedIn develop skills to find a better job. exams are available in English, Learning classes, GitHub Learn- Offers extend through the end of French, German, Spanish, Japa- ing Lab tools, and low-cost Micro- 2021 and include LinkedIn Learn- nese, and Simplified Chinese. For soft Certifications are still avail- ing Pathways for in-demand jobs more information, see PLA’s Skill- able to help those in your and soft skills and discounted ing for Employment Post COVID- community recover from job loss Microsoft Certification exams. 19 project (http://www.ala.org/ due to COVID-19, or simply Learning paths and certification pla/initiatives/digitalskilling).

VOLUME 60 Number 3 PUBLIC LIBRARIES 5 PLA NEWS

State of America’s Libraries COVID-19 Special Report In 2020, libraries of all types stepped up to meet the assess the state of America’s libraries, we find 2020 needs of their communities as they responded to the was a year when library professionals answered the impacts of COVID-19, a national financial crisis, and call to serve amid multiple emergencies and a year social unrest. They were at the center of some of our when library workers again proved to be essential nation’s most consequential work, including sup- “first restorers” or “second responders.” Read more porting accurate counts in the US Census, fighting about libraries’ response to the COVID-19 pandemic political disinformation, and facilitating free and and the Top Ten Most Challenged of 2020 in fair elections. Libraries also extended necessary the “State of America’s Libraries 2021 Special lifelines to community members facing job losses, Report: COVID-19” (http://www.ala.org/news healthcare crises, and remote work and learning /sites/ala.org.news/files/content/State-of during an unprecedented and uncertain time. As we -Americas-Libraries-Report-2021-4-21.pdf ).

PL Feature Article Award Winners Planning for PLA 2022 The winners of the annual Public Libraries fea- PLA is heading to Portland, Oregon for the PLA ture article contest have been announced. Fea- 2022 Conference, March 23–25! Like the institu- ture length articles published in 2020 were eligi- tions they support, the role of the public library ble to compete for two cash prizes. The author(s) worker is ever-changing. The COVID-19 crisis must be employed in a public library at the time magnified this more than any of us could have the manuscript is submitted. The articles were imagined, but public libraries responded swiftly evaluated by members of the Public Libraries and creatively to meet Advisory Committee. The winner of the Feature their communities’ evolv- Article Contest receives $500, and the Honorable ing needs. The conference Mention Award includes a $300 cash prize. will also need to transform The 2021 Feature Article Contest award win- to provide public library ner is Mary Jo Finch, director, Westbank Commu- professionals the opportu- nity Library, Austin, Texas, for her article “Learn- nity to come together in ing From Our Statistics—Twelve Simple Rules for person or virtually to Understanding and Using Our Numbers Better” reconnect with one (http://publiclibrariesonline.org/2021/05/learn another, re-create the services they provide, and ing-from-our-statistics/), which appeared in the revitalize their passion for the work they do every September/October 2020 issue. day. We know that the pandemic has affected The 2021 Honorable Mention Award went to library and professional development budgets, so “Define and Design: The Bookstore Model of early planning for PLA 2022 is a must. Explore the Customer Service” (http://publiclibrariesonline conference website (www.placonference.org) to .org/2021/05/define-design-the-bookstore-mod get the preliminary registration and travel infor- el-of-customer-service/) by Marissa Bucci, youth mation you need to join us! services librarian, the Ferguson Library, Stam- PLA’s Virtual Conference will also be ford, Connecticut; Jay Janoski, assistant director, returning—bigger and better than ever—for Westhampton Public Library, Westhampton attendees who are unable to join us in person. Beach, New York; and Nicole Scherer, assistant Registration for the PLA 2022 Conference will director, Nassau Library System, New York. open in fall 2021.

6 PUBLIC LIBRARIES VOLUME 60 Number 3 PLA NEWS Mary Davis Fournier Named PLA Executive Director

The American Library Association has announced Printers Row Lit Fest and authors-in-the-schools the appointment of Mary Davis Fournier as execu- programs, and in higher education as Programming tive director, Public Library Association (PLA), a Associate at Miami-Dade College’s Miami Book division of ALA. Her first day in her new role was Fair International (Florida). Active in the Chicago Monday, June 14. arts and philanthropic community, Fournier is a Fournier is a 20-year veteran of ALA, having past co-chair of Chicago Women in Philanthropy. served in various roles including, most recently She is a Certified Association Executive and holds a deputy director of the Public Programs Office. At M.Ed. in Educational Policy Studies from the Uni- ALA, she spearheaded dozens of groundbreaking versity of Illinois at Champaign – Urbana, and a projects that have paved the way B.A. in History and English Litera- for innovation in the library field, ture from the University of Wiscon- including Libraries Transforming sin – Madison. Communities and the National “We are delighted that after a Impact of Library Public Pro- nationwide search we found our grams Assessment (NILPPA), next leader so close to home,” said Building Common Ground: Dis- Michelle Jeske, president of PLA. cussions of Community, Civility “Mary’s reputation in the library and Compassion, and the first field is stellar, and her innovative “One Book” resource, Planning work with public libraries and pub- Your Community-Wide Read. She lic library professionals through is the co-editor of Act, Listen, ALA’s Public Programs Office has Empower: Grounding Your Library prepared her well to lead PLA into Work in Community Engagement (ALA Editions, its next era. We are in very capable hands.” 2020), which documents the field’s transforma- Tracie D. Hall, ALA executive director, added, tional shift toward library-led community engage- “I’ve had the pleasure of working with and know- ment. ing Mary for almost two decades. She has dedicated Her work, which has illuminated and leveraged her career to helping libraries serve their commu- the unparalleled power of libraries to support the nities. Her appointment comes at a critical time in most vulnerable and in-need populations through the evolution of public library services as practice excellence in programming and community engage- continues to shift to respond to pandemic and ment, has been supported by a range of national post-pandemic user needs and information seeking partners including the Institute of Museum and behavior. Mary’s long track record of developing Library Services, the National Endowment for the fruitful institutional partnerships, incubating new Humanities, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, programs, and scaling impact are well matched for the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation, the the task at hand. Her commitment, as well, to the Fetzer Institute, the National Coalition for Dia- values of the library profession, and the relation- logue and Deliberation, among others. ships she has built with public library staff nation- Prior to ALA, Fournier worked in neighborhood wide through the Public Programs Office, ideally development, as program director at the Near suit her for this role. I’m excited to work with her South Planning Board (Chicago), directing the to propel ALA and PLA forward.”

VOLUME 60 Number 3 PUBLIC LIBRARIES 7 ON MY MIND TOPICAL COMMENTARY ON ISSUES OF INTEREST TO THE PUBLIC LIBRARY WORLD To Pitch or Not to Pitch? On My Mind On My Post-Pandemic Library–Business Partnerships

Elektra Greer / [email protected]

Elektra Greer, Director, Nederland Community Library.  Elektra is currently reading The Short Fall by Marek Waldorf.

rom lemonade stands to library services. This was just what we do, forcing us to take off fragrant brassiere liners what my 2020 pandemic, some blinders and rethink F(still waiting on the royal- grant-fatigued brain needed. Most aspects of our service model. ties from that one), I’ve always invigorating (and scary!) was that There were innumerable rewards dreamed myself one paperclip/ the pitch judges would represent for participating in the competi- Paypal moment away from a the economic sector rather than tion (spoiler alert: we were fortu- great discovery. So, not surpris- the public sector. nate to receive the first-place ingly, when I learned of the 2020 The focus of the @theTable award), but the aspect of the Entrepreneurship and Librar- Pitch Competition was support- experience that has lingered with ies Inaugural @theTable Pitch ing local economies through me most has been the unex- competition (held in November library initiatives and innovation. pected reactions from some of 2020), I was giddy. Finally, my There were cash prizes to be my library peers. dueling librarian and entrepre- invested into the winning library The pandemic has brought to neurial selves could truly be in pitches. The experience was light the intersection of inequities partnership. blessedly more Nemo Tank than in our country—social, economic, I had been aware there were Shark Tank and was invaluable in and health. And though small libraries facilitating entrepre- ways I hadn’t anticipated. Being business owners are sitting right neurial pitch competitions in required to frame the “profitabil- in the middle of the intersection, their communities, with business ity” of library services from an there appears a hesitation in parts owners receiving seed capital, but investor/pitch perspective of our profession to recognize I hadn’t heard of any library orga- sparked some excellent debates economic development as part of nization bold enough to adopt the within my library team. It sharp- our community-centric core mis- same approach internally to ened our analysis of why we do sion. In preparing for the Pitch

8 PUBLIC LIBRARIES VOLUME 60 Number 3 To Pitch or Not to Pitch? / On my Mind competition, and afterward, I was retain significant credibility Protection Program originated surprised to hear colleagues ques- across demographic lines. Out- by the 2020 CARES Act) SBA’s tioning library-business partner- reach to the business community resources are primarily deliv- ships. Undeniably, there is amaz- further expands our commitment ered online. Offering assistance ing work being done at libraries to diverse voices. It also educates navigating the labyrinthine SBA big and small to support local us and diversifies our support processes and helping ensure entrepreneurship. The Urban and influence in the broader SBA loans go to the businesses Libraries Council, ALA, and other world. they’re intended to support organizations have put forth Libraries are well positioned (instead of large, publicly traded numerous initiatives and to offer tools and resources for companies) is one of many ways resources, especially in relation to entrepreneurs, and there is a libraries can leverage our skills COVID-19 support. Still, with void in the market for business- and public trust for the greater library resources always being creation assistance. Hundreds of good. stretched thin, business outreach incubators and accelerators exist My entrepreneurial self may and partnerships are often not to nurture startups, but these never come up with the next- prioritized. entities are geared toward serv- best-QVC breakthrough, and I’m For very good reasons, our ing as feeders for venture capital okay with that. But my librarian profession is hungry to effect investors. The far-more-common self needs to believe we can meaningful social change. It local, bootstrap entrepreneur is embrace the innovative and needn’t look further than Main not the target customer of those entrepreneurial spirit that helps Street. The core library values we entities. That’s where libraries make this country great. And do hold dear and want to preserve— fit in. it in a way that brings diverse intellectual freedom, democracy, The most relevant source of voices to the table. Despite many education, diversity—are insepa- startup capital for a bootstrap stumbles, our country’s amazing rably linked to our economy and entrepreneur isn’t venture capi- progress with developing financial system. We need to be tal, it’s a bank loan guaranteed COVID-19 vaccines, and what we sure we can speak the language by the US Small Business are all witnessing with space of Main Street, especially in our Administration (SBA). However, exploration and renewable smaller and rural libraries, where with only ten regional offices energy technologies, have been I serve. and a mandate to administer accomplished through public- Public libraries, almost alone numerous active programs private partnerships. Let’s have it among government institutions, (including the Paycheck all start at our local library. PL

2021 Early Literacy Calendar Available

PLA’s Early Literacy Tips Calendar features daily literacy-building activities that libraries can share with families in their community. Based on the Every Child Ready to Read practices of reading, writ- ing, singing, talking, playing, and now counting, each download contains twelve months of learning activities, book lists, nursery rhymes, and more. The calendar is available for purchase and download in the ALA Store for $23.99 for PLA members, $26.99 for ALA members, and $29.99 for others. For more information and to purchase visit https://www.alastore.ala.org/PLA2021calendar. PL

VOLUME 60 Number 3 PUBLIC LIBRARIES 9 EDISJ MATTERS AUTHORED BY PLA’S TASK FORCE ON EQUITY, DIVERSITY, INCLUSION, AND SOCIAL JUSTICE

Reaching the EDISJ MATTERS EDISJ Unreached Evaluating BIPOC Partnership Development

Christina Fuller-Gregory / [email protected]

Christina Fuller-Gregory is Assistant Director of Libraries at South Carolina Governor’s School for the Arts and Humanities/ email: cfuller- [email protected]. She is currently reading "Set Boundaries, Find Peace" by Nedra Glover Tawwab.

s community connec- these questions. In doing so, STEP 1: Start with “Why” tors, public libraries we ensure that library partner- Arecognize the power ships aren’t viewed as harmful, Q: Why is my library interested of relationship building. We or transactional, but communi- in forming or maintaining a are well-versed in transform- ty-building and collaborative. community partnership? ing tentative relationships into Libraries with equity, diver- experiences rooted in trust. sity, and inclusion at the center, Whether your organization is But when it comes to engag- understand the importance of interested in strengthening part- ing with BIPOC library part- nurturing partnerships. These nerships by identifying and ners, do we lead with care? Do organizations also recognize the working with diverse commu- we ensure that all voices are evaluative nature of the partner- nity organizations, or seeking heard, and create communica- ship process, and continually community partners for funding tion guidelines that enable part- work to identify ways to build or grant requirements, taking ners from traditionally mar- partnerships that embody the the time to identify the driving ginalized groups to contribute? ideals of a generous worldview. force behind your library’s inter- Our responsibility to our library Are you ready to transform the est in community partner- partners relies heavily on our ways in which you pursue part- ship-building is an important ability to thoughtfully answer nerships? Try the following: first step.

10 PUBLIC LIBRARIES VOLUME 60 Number 3 Reaching the Unreached / EDISJ MATTERS

On a deeper level, this exam- proficiency understand the ination may affirm the work that Further Reading importance of taking an “inside- you’re already doing, or con- Hines-Martin, Vicki. out” approach to building part- versely, it may reveal the ways in Library Collaborations and nerships. They encourage staff which your partnership- Community Partnerships to practice self-reflection and building process could be (Milton Park, UK: Routledge, self critique to ensure that inter- improved to more effectively 2020). actions with potential partners amplify community needs. An aren’t informed by individual easy way to begin this process is biases. to create a list of your current homogeneous? When was the Cultural proficiency also relies partners, and the projects on last time you evaluated your on the library’s ability to practice which you’re partnering. The partnership processes? active listening when seeking “why” is often driven by those As with other library pro- diverse partnerships. The very areas of priority or concern, and grams and services, partnership act of listening signals to poten- you may see specific patterns development should be used to tial partners the library’s sincere emerging—partnerships with galvanize and strengthen com- interest in learning about the organizations serving children, munity relationships. Writer and mission, vision, and values of the refugees, or the houseless. Start- activist Chimamanda Ngozi Adi- partnering organization. And, for ing by identifying why you’re chie’s well-known TED Talk, organizations who have never prioritizing partnership develop- warns of the “dangers of a single interacted with the library, active ment will allow you to have a story.” Building strong partner- listening highlights the library’s clear area of focus that can be ships relies on our ability to shift desire to see community organi- used to inform the path forward. our “single story” thinking. zations bloom and grow. At its Strong partnerships also encour- core, cultural proficiency is STEP 2: Identify Your Partners age us to abandon one-sided people-centered and relies on ideas that create partnership our ability to interact and appre- Q: Who are your current imbalances, and they silence ciate one another’s cultures or partners? familiar narratives that discour- belief systems. age us from trying new Q: Are they reflective of your approaches. STEP 4: The Partnership community? Path Forward Q: Do they adequately speak to STEP 3: Check Your Cultural the disparate needs and voices Proficiency Q: What are the next steps for of the patrons you see, and my organization? those you don’t? Q: What can we do to broaden our reach?’ Steps one through three are You’ve established the impor- highly focused on the process of tance of partnerships and are Now that you’ve identified who examination. But what do you do operating with a newfound your partners are, or aren’t, you when you’re ready to mobilize intentionality, now what? Once can begin to develop strategies and take action? The real work of you recognize, and understand for partner engagement. This authentically engaging diverse why you’re prioritizing partner- process starts with normalizing partners starts when you: ships, you want to identify who practices and behaviors that are you’re partnering with. Is your informed by cultural proficiency. ȕ Practice and believe in the current list of partners largely Libraries that lead with cultural importance of psychological

VOLUME 60 Number 3 PUBLIC LIBRARIES 11 EDISJ MATTERS / Reaching the Unreached

safety, mutual respect, and ȕ Commit to a community partners to share feedback or trust. driven, community-building suggestions. ȕ Define the ways in which you focus. share a common vision, ȕ Identify, value, and There’s no denying the collec- mission, and goals. acknowledge your partner’s tive impact of a library with ȕ Nurture the partnership, expertise. strong partners. How will you understanding that with most ȕ Value equity, diversity, and leverage your understanding of relationships they are subject inclusion. these steps to transform your to change. ȕ Invite current/potential community? PL

PublicLibrariesONLINE publiclibrariesonline.org Digital Highlights

Brian Broome on Gwendolyn Brooks, Giving Everybody the Benefit of the Doubt, and Why He Loves Writing on the Bus Brian Broome’s triumphant memoir Punch Me Up to the Gods heralds the arrival of an extraordinary new writer. In essays of searing wit and compassion, Broome leads the reader through growing up Black and gay in rural Ohio, examining his relationship with his pragmatic mother and defeated father. As a young adult, he moves to Pittsburgh. The city affords him the community he had long sought growing up, but also causes him to confront his issues with addiction and past traumas. In every essay, Broome’s joyful empathy shines through, as he unflinchingly recollects the darkest moments of his life with sensitivity and good humor. Broome’s book has been met with glowing praise by fellow writers and critics. The New York Times stated, “Punch Me Up to the Gods feels like a gift,” and Kiese Laymon said, “Punch Me Up to the Gods obliterates what we thought were the limitations of not just the American memoir, but the possibilities of the American paragraph. I’m not sure a book has ever had me sobbing, punching the air, dying of laughter, and needing to write as much as Brian Broome’s staggering debut.” Read the interview here: http://publiclibrariesonline.org/2021/05/broome/.

Amazon, E-books, Copyright, and Libraries What follows should not come as a surprise. The rules libraries must abide by in order to provide e-books and e-audio to our patrons are overly strict and often make for an exorbitant cost. Librarians are familiar with this situation and adjust as best we can. We split our money between physi- cal materials and e-resources to serve shifting patron expectations, while still maintaining the more traditional library collection. Amazon has intensified these issues by refusing to allow libraries to pur- chase copies of the e-books they publish. That means more than 10,000 e-books and tens of thousands of are simply not available to our patrons. Amazon is now one of the largest publishers of e-books. Such decisions by large publishers threaten the very purpose of libraries, to make information accessible to everyone. So what can we do? Read the entire article here: http://publiclibrariesonline. org/2021/05/amazon-e-books-copyright-and-libraries/.

12 PUBLIC LIBRARIES VOLUME 60 Number 3 BEST PRACTICES BEST PRACTICES NEW AND BETTER SOLUTIONS FOR LIBRARY WORLD CHALLENGES Reinforcing ​ Purpose and Motivation to Sustain Regional Library Cooperatives Krista Riggs / [email protected]

Krista is Library Director, Madera County (CA) Library.  Krista is currently reading A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman.

s budgets tighten and the purpose and motivations cooperation, what cannot be the need for equity of behind cooperative efforts can achieved alone.”1 They find that Aaccess becomes increas- strengthen member libraries’ cooperative success depends on ingly apparent across the coun- commitment to their consortia shared vision, goals, and measur- try, regional public library con- while providing a vision of sus- able outcomes to ensure consis- sortia offer their members the tainability during a year of uncer- tent motivations for participa- opportunity to negotiate prices, tain budgeting. tion.2 Their research across share costs, streamline pro- multiple professions found eleven cess, and increase access across The “Why” of Consortia key elements that contribute to a larger geographic reach. Yet Frederick Baus and Claire A. success and sustainability of con- many consortia struggled and Ramsbottom note that “broadly sortia: either ceased to exist or merged stated, the mission of any consor- with other systems during the tium is to enable the members to ȕ leadership and commitment Great Recession. Reconsidering achieve together, through from the highest level

VOLUME 60 Number 3 PUBLIC LIBRARIES 13 Best Practices / Reinforcing Purpose and Motivation to Sustain Regional Library Cooperatives

ȕ a clear mission and goals Other responsibilities may procedures, and regulations for ȕ balance mechanisms for include generating system-wide the conduct of the White Pine providing parity between the policies, planning and assess- Library Cooperative; to monitor “heavy weights” and others ment of internal operations, organizational performance.” Its ȕ commitment and buy-in from streamlining processes, and responsibilities are to all parties improving efficiencies. Although ȕ decision-making ability consortia leadership may serve in 1. establish policies for adminis- combined with local control an advisory role to member tering the activities and ser- ȕ a neutral, third-party function libraries, individual library direc- vices that are in harmony with ȕ adequate funding models tors tend to maintain control of the WPLC Plan of Service; ȕ clear agreements for cost- local decision-making. As Jan 2. employ the executive director; sharing arrangements Ison writes, “There seems to be a 3. ensure that the financial ȕ evaluation and assessment consensus that one role that the affairs of WPLC are conducted metrics cooperative should not fulfill is on a responsible basis in ȕ effective communication that of replacing local services accordance with established within and across all systems and local decision-making. Pub- practices; and ȕ flexibility to be nimble and lic library service has always 4. ensure that the property of experiment beyond members’ been a primary responsibility of WPLC is maintained in a rea- individual capacities3 the local government in which it sonable state of repair.8 was created.”6 Leadership As with any organization, Specific duties of members of Greg Pronevitz finds that library library consortia gain strength the board of directors are also cooperatives typically fall within through strong leadership and clearly outlined, along with several types of governance investment among all members bylaws of the organization. The structures: 501(c)(3) nonprofit in a shared purpose, vision, goals, consortium has a clear plan of organization, government opera- and measurable outcomes. The service that details grievance and tions (“regional or other types of White Pine Library Cooperative dispute processes for members, systems supported by state dol- (WPLC) has a clear mission funding sources, budget pro- lars”), or other types of associa- statement that reinforces collab- cesses, and a description of core tions.4 Membership may be com- orative efforts while maintaining services and policies.9 This trans- posed of exclusively one type of local control: “Our mission is to parency leads to trust among library (i.e., public, academic, or coordinate and provide members while providing a road- special) or a combination. He high-quality, cost-effective ser- map for efficiency and sustain- notes that each type of organiza- vices that will strengthen mem- ability. Baus and Ramsbottom also tion maintains standard respon- ber libraries so they can meet point to a consortium’s balance of sibilities such as the following: changing patron and community power and its ability to serve as a needs.”7 As with all public library “neutral third party” as important ȕ maintain a mission statement, cooperatives in Michigan, WPLC to building consensus and main- shared sense of purpose has a director and small staff, a taining objectivity while strength- ȕ maintain records/file nine-member board of directors ening relationships. They write, necessary forms consisting of public library lead- “The role of the staff is to facili- ȕ develop bylaws and adhere to ers, plus at least one non-public tate the building of relationships state regulations and laws library associate member. The and trust so that the true potential ȕ maintain financial reporting, role of the board of directors is of the consortium can be realized; conduct annual audit5 “to determine policies, its role is also to serve as a buffer

14 PUBLIC LIBRARIES VOLUME 60 Number 3 Reinforcing Purpose and Motivation to Sustain Regional Library Cooperatives / Best Practices when trust is not achievable. Dating back to 1977, the Building trust and a team establishment of library coop- approach is crucial, takes time eratives by PA 89 in Michigan read more and energy, and can be quickly realized the importance of local Horton, Valerie, and Bruce dismantled, especially by mis- control of member libraries Smith, eds. Moving Materials: placed comments by those who along with collective strength Physical Delivery in Libraries. are not willing to invest in the in collaboration. The Michigan Chicago: ALA Editions, 2010. 10 group.” Cooperative Directors Associa- Horton, Valerie, and Greg tion writes, “Library coopera- Pronevitz. Library Consortia: Benefits tives were created to provide Models for Collaboration and ALA’s Library of the Future men- member libraries with access to Sustainability. Chicago: ALA tions a “sharing economy” as a resource sharing, training, com- Editions, 2015. trend, stating, “Population munications, and library devel- growth, urbanization, increasing opment. . . . The cooperative concern for limited resources, a approach preserves local initia- possible to use a system they down economy, and the develop- tive and control while taking otherwise couldn’t afford or to ment of social technologies have full advantage of the wealth of benefit from technical expertise helped advance a sharing econ- resources that a larger service they did not have in-house. Other omy that prioritizes access over area makes possible.”15 Key libraries not in consortia ownership.”11 Library consortia incentives for individual librar- seem ahead of their time in ies to join regional consortia expressed a hope that they could adopting a sharing economy, as include the following: find partners that would allow key motivations for membership them to experience these bene- 17 include increased access to ȕ access to an integrated library fits.” resources and reduced costs system (ILS), IT help, and While many public library through price negotiation and resource sharing; consortia use geographic regions collaboration.12 While especially ȕ materials handling and to determine membership and true for rural and small public delivery; then collectively select an ILS, libraries, the benefits for consor- ȕ electronic resource sharing Evergreen Indiana is an example tia members extend to urban and ȕ planning, policy generation, of a library consortia created special libraries as well. Pronev- contract negotiating; around a shared ILS. Their mis- itz notes that in Massachusetts a ȕ advocacy and public relations; sion statement is “Evergreen drastic cut to state budgets ȕ grants and collaborative; Indiana is a community of inde- during the Great Recession opportunities; pendent libraries using the Ever- (2010) led six regional library ȕ training, professional green ILS and providing a net- systems to merge into one state- development, and work of shared resources.”18 wide cooperative. This effort, networking.16 Goals include equitable access of “led to increased buying power library resources to all Indiana for electronic content through a Breeding and Yelton note that residents, maintaining a state-of- single bid process in collabora- membership in a consortium the-art network to provide effi- tion with the state agency.”13 Yet allows libraries to benefit from a cient and cost-effective lending, individual libraries lost access “full-featured” ILS and corre- creating and maintaining an ILS and control of local content along sponding technical support and policies for use, a shared with a loss of “local regional sys- beyond individual capacity. They library card, and training for tem support.”14 write, “The consortium made it member library staff.19

VOLUME 60 Number 3 PUBLIC LIBRARIES 15 Best Practices / Reinforcing Purpose and Motivation to Sustain Regional Library Cooperatives

Consortia may provide deliv- technical support for products or federal funding (LSTA), fees ery services for member libraries and related security measures for services, and other sources to further expand access to such as patron authentication such as grants, with either mem- shared resources. Lori Ayre and and privacy safeguards. Although ber dues or state funding Pronevitz note that using an public employees might not be accounting for the most revenue ‘in-house’ delivery system allows able to engage in advocacy across systems.25 Formulas for for more flexible scheduling to during work hours, consortium state or federal disbursements of adjust to staffing levels and staff might be able to advocate funds vary by state and/or sys- library closures, while also tend- through state channels for tem. As Christine Watkins ing toward fewer cases of loss or increased access to broadband explains, “In Illinois . . . systems damage of materials.20 However, and connectivity for their mem- receive their funding from the they note drawbacks to an ber libraries. state based on a formula that in-house system such as the cost Collaboration potential, pro- takes into account both popula- of vehicles, sorting equipment, fessional development opportu- tion served and the square miles and storage space, stating, “Pur- nities, and networking with other covered by each system,” while, chasing the proper vehicle, set- library leaders are additional “Florida’s SEFLIN . . . receives ting up efficient systems, and benefits of consortium member- half of its funding from member- deploying staff effectively ship. Support from other direc- ship dues and half . . . from grants requires much experience,” tors within my own library con- provided by the state library.”26 while, “commercial couriers have sortium (San Joaquin Valley In Michigan, consortium mem- experience and are able to allo- Library System) has proven valu- bers, “receive a portion of state cate personnel and equipment able recently, both in sharing aid based on the population more effectively and usually get plans for reopening after the served by the cooperative and a the job done at a lower cost.”21 pandemic and in handling inqui- portion of state aid paid to mem- Consortia members also bene- ries about items in the collection. ber libraries for the purchase of fit from cost-sharing negotiations cooperative services.”27 and group pricing on electronic Sustainability Consortia can demonstrate resources such as database sub- Valerie Horton notes that library their worth to members and scriptions and e-books, and even cooperatives started struggling in funders by highlighting benefits connectivity through Wi-Fi and 2008 during the Great Reces- and the value of cost sharing broadband agreements and sion.23 Pronevitz also points to while presenting statistics, mea- related compliances. As Sue this time as difficult, stating, surable outcomes, and stories of Polanka writes, “libraries can “The economic crisis brought on impact for services such as increase their buying power and reductions in state funding of resource sharing. Maintaining access larger collections by nego- regional systems, leading to transparent financial records and tiating as a group. In other numerous mergers and clo- implementing regular audits also words, twenty libraries with sures.”24 Concern for stable fund- help build trust and accountabil- $5,000 each will acquire far more ing sources continues through ity within a system. Some con- content than a single library with the pandemic as state and local sortia extend invitations to aca- a $5,000 budget.”22 Consortium budgets tighten for the year demic, school, and special staff may write requests for pro- ahead. libraries to increase membership, posals, schedule product demon- Most regional library consor- resource sharing, and support. strations, and negotiate and draft tia receive funds through some While funding is the biggest contracts, saving time for mem- combination of four possible obstacle to sustaining consortia, bers. They may also provide sources: member dues, state and/ Horton cites an OCLC survey

16 PUBLIC LIBRARIES VOLUME 60 Number 3 Reinforcing Purpose and Motivation to Sustain Regional Library Cooperatives / Best Practices

listing additional challenges of a REFERENCES 16. Valerie Horton, “Whither Library lack of member collaboration, 1. Frederick Baus and Clair A. Ramsbot- Consortia?” Collaborative Librarianship maintaining relevance through tom, “Starting and Sustaining a Consor- 5, no. 3 (2013): 150–52. change, the ability to reach con- tium,” New Directions for Higher Educa- 17. Marshall Breeding and Andromeda sensus, inflation, and inadequate tion 106 (Summer 1999): 4. Yelton, “Librarians’ Assessments of staffing.28 Consortia benefit from 2. Baus and Ramsbottom, “Starting and Automation Systems: Survey Results, routine assessments of services Sustaining a Consortium,” 8. 2007–2010,” Library Technology Reports and benefits from member librar- 3. Baus and Ramsbottom, “Starting and 47, no. 4 (May/June 2011): 9, https://doi ies. Governing processes, bylaws, Sustaining a Consortium,” 17. .org/10.5860/ltr.47n4. goals, and outcomes should be 4. Greg Pronevitz, “The Consortial Land- 18. “Governance,” Evergreen Indiana ‘living documents’ with regular scape,” in Library Consortia: Models for Library Consortium, https://blog review to maintain relevance to Collaboration and Sustainability, Valerie .evergreen.lib.in.us/?page_id=2610. member libraries and local com- Horton and Greg Pronevitz, eds. (Chi- 19. “Governance.” munities. Effective communica- cago: ALA Editions, 2015), 30. 20. Lori Bowen Ayre and Greg Pronevitz, tion leading to transparency, 5. Pronevitz, “The Consortial Landscape.” “Physical Delivery: Future and Present,” trust, and relationship building 6. Jan Ison, “Rural Public Libraries in in Library Consortia: Models for Collabo- among member libraries is also Multitype Library Cooperatives,” ration and Sustainability, Valerie Horton crucial for organizational sus- Library Trends 44, no. 1 (Summer 1995). and Greg Pronevitz, eds. (Chicago: ALA tainability. Tidy record keeping 7. White Pine Library Cooperative homep- Editions, 2015), 86. and management of documents, age, https://wplc.org/. 21. Ayre and Pronevitz, “Physical Delivery.” contracts, policies, and proce- 8. “Board Member Roles and Responsibili- 22. Sue Polanka, ed., “The No Shelf dures will ensure a smooth tran- ties,” White Pine Library Cooperative, Required Guide to E-book Purchasing,” sition between leaders when www.wplc.org/wp-content/uploads Library Technology Reports 47, no. 8 consortium staff or board mem- /documents/board-member-job (November/ December 2011), 6, https:// bers change. -description-2005.pdf. doi.org/10.5860/ltr.47n8. Membership in a regional 9. “Plan of Service October 1, 2016–Sep- 23. Valerie Horton, “Whither Library consortium provides increased tember 30, 2018,” White Pine Library Consortia?” Collaborative Librarianship access to resources and connec- Cooperative, accessed www.wplc.org 5, no. 3 (2013), 152. tivity that might not otherwise /wp-content/uploads/WPLC_Plan_of_ 24. Pronevitz, “The Consortial Landscape,” 9. be possible, especially for rural Service_-2016-2018-extension-2019.pdf. 25. Pronevitz, “The Consortial Landscape,” 17. and small libraries. With strong 10. Baus and Ramsbottom, “Starting and 26. Christine Watkins, “Grassroots Report: leadership, well-defined benefits Sustaining a Consortium,” 15. New Study to Shed Light on Library for member libraries and their 11. “Sharing Economy,” Library of the Cooperatives,” American Libraries communities, and a focus on Future: Trends, http://www (February 2002), 13. demonstrating accountability .ala.org/tools/future/trends/sharing 27. Michigan Cooperative Directors Associ- and impact, regional library con- economy. ation homepage, https://micoops.info/. sortia strengthen member librar- 12. Ison, “Rural Public Libraries.” 28. Horton, “Whither Library Consortia?,” ies’ commitment to their consor- 13. Pronevitz, “The Consortial Landscape,” 19. 152. tia while providing a vision of 14. Pronevitz, “The Consortial Landscape,” 19. sustainability during economic 15. Michigan Cooperative Directors Associ- uncertainty. PL ation homepage, www.micoops.info.

LIKE Public libraries on FACEBOOK @PUBLIBONLINE

VOLUME 60 Number 3 PUBLIC LIBRARIES 17 18 PUBLIC LIBRARIES VOLUME 60 Number 3 FEATURE

Erika Fitzpatrick / [email protected] Erika Fitzpatrick is an MSIS student and graduate assistant at the University of Tennessee Knoxville.  Erika is currently reading We Do This ’Til We Free Us by Mariame Kaba.

PARTNERING WITH SCIENCE ORGANIZATIONS

Collaborations between public libraries and science-oriented organizations such as museums, extension agents, university science departments, and community organizations and clubs bring scientific expertise into library science and STEM programming.

When successful, these partnerships not only bene- new concepts or activities that can be integrated fit the public by providing opportunities to learn into other library programs. Both benefit from about science and improve science literacy, but also expanding their reach and building community benefit the collaborating organizations on both connections. sides; science organizations benefit from fostering public interest in careers in science and increasing SCIENCE-FOCUSED PARTNERSHIPS public understanding and appreciation of scientific CAN BE MUTUALLY BENEFICIAL endeavor, public libraries benefit from the sub- Public libraries offer a wide variety of science- ject-matter expertise and the opportunity to learn focused programs, including some that are the

VOLUME 60 Number 3 PUBLIC LIBRARIES 19 FEATURE / PARTNERING WITH SCIENCE ORGANIZATIONS result of collaborations or partnerships between programs about space science. Public libraries public libraries and science-focused organizations served as a means for NASA to build public support such as National Laboratories, university science and enthusiasm for the space program, fuel interest departments, museums, science-oriented commu- in space science careers, and legitimize NASA in the nity organizations and nonprofits, and university eyes of the public. extension agencies. Existing literature on science One type of collaboration that has received some and STEM programming in public libraries primar- scholarly attention has been collaborations between ily focuses on librarian-led programs, and very little public libraries and institutions focused on medi- research exists that focuses on programs developed cine. Research has found that public libraries are as a collaborative effort between public libraries and effective partners for improving public health and science organizations. To fill this gap, a study was health literacy.2 Partnerships with the NIH and conducted to assess the value of these partnerships health science libraries have not only benefited and gather feedback and suggestions to help public partnering institutions by providing an opportunity librarians develop successful collaborative science to connect with the public and improve community programming at their own libraries. Responses from health, but also have also been successfully used to libraries and science organizations overwhelmingly support medical research through the “All of Us” indicated that partnerships between public libraries program, which has used public library partner- and science organizations are mutually beneficial ships to recruit research participants from under- relationships that result in popular, educational studied demographics.3 Beyond health science liter- science- and STEM-focused programming that acy efforts, however, the existing literature is quite provide the public with opportunities to learn about limited, with only a few case studies primarily a wide variety of science topics, explore careers in focused on collaborations with universities and science, and improve their science literacy. extension agents.4 These existing studies cover only a fraction of the types of collaborative science pro- What the Research Indicates gramming that is currently happening in public Public libraries sometimes partner with scientific libraries. Collaborating organizations range from institutions and organizations to create science local science-oriented nonprofits to national labora- centered programs and events, but few of these tories to museums to hospitals, and the types of cooperative efforts have been studied. Though programs resulting from these collaborations vary STEM programming in public libraries has become just as widely. This study aimed to look more a popular subject in professional and scholarly liter- broadly at science collaborations in public libraries ature, the focus largely remains on librarian-led and identify common themes in successful partner- programs. However, the little research that does ships. cover collaborations with science organizations indicates that this type of collaboration can be bene- Study Methodology ficial not only for the library patrons and commu- Once collaborative programs were identified, pro- nity members that participate in the programs, but gram organizers, both from public libraries and also for the contributing organizations. This is collaborating organizations, were invited to partici- exemplified by the mutually beneficial relationship pate in a survey. Twenty-four individuals partici- between NASA and public libraries across the pated in the survey, with fifteen representing public United States.1 Since its inception, NASA has con- libraries and nine representing science organiza- tributed information and artifacts for public library tions including museums, university departments, displays and even sent scientists and astronauts to hospitals, and nonprofits. public libraries across the country to lend their The survey was used to gather data about how scientific expertise and experience to library the public library and science organization

20 PUBLIC LIBRARIES VOLUME 60 Number 3 PARTNERING WITH SCIENCE ORGANIZATIONS / FEATURE partnerships were formed, what each participating collaboration with a local extension agent, stating “It organization contributed, and the perceived success is always beneficial to libraries to find partners who of the collaborative programs. Participants were will present lectures and programs. Extension agents asked to rate the overall success of the program, have scientific knowledge and have been trained to both in terms of benefits to their organization and deliver that knowledge to the public in a way that’s to the public or the community being served by the useful and easy to understand. Partnering with the program, on a five-point Likert scale. They were Extension service in your community opens up a also asked to specify what, if anything, they would wide array of quality programming that libraries do differently in the future and to share any tips otherwise would not be able to offer.” Youth pro- they had for others attempting to develop similar gramming, particularly programs for children and partnerships and programs. Human subjects per- tweens, was the most commonly targeted age range, mission was obtained through the University of and multiple participants cited inspiring youth to Tennessee Institutional Review Board. consider careers in STEM as a goal. Science topics also provide ample opportunities for intergenera- RESULTS tional programs, and several programmers aimed to There was a fairly even divide in the way partner- draw in families through programs designed for ships were started with 13 being initiated by librar- broad age appeal. ies and 11 initiated by science organizations. Four In terms of organizational goals, these programs partnerships involved competitive applications, and supported public libraries’ mission to connect the three were sparked by conferences. However, public with information, helped them promote reaching out directly or cold-calling was the most related existing library services and resources such frequently mentioned method for forming partner- as makerspaces, and expanded the skills and pro- ships, and one of the most common suggestions gramming repertoire of their staff members. A cou- offered for those interested in starting similar col- ple of participants also listed increased program laborations at their library or organization was to attendance as a reason for pursuing science part- simply identify local science-focused organizations, ners, with one stating “it’s a crowd pleaser for fami- university departments, clubs, or museums, and lies. Our bean counters love to see how many people reach out to gauge interest and explore potential we can cram into our buildings/patios without set- partnerships. ting off the fire marshals.” For science collaborators, Participants were asked to describe the goals of a common organizational goal was using the public the collaboration both in terms of benefits to the library as a way to reach more community members public and benefits to their organization. The com- and connect with the public. With recent closures mon goal across all of the collaborations was to edu- and stay-at-home orders resulting from the ongoing cate the public on various topics pertaining to sci- pandemic, a couple of participants specifically ence and science literacy and foster public interest in aimed to use collaborative programming as a means science by expanding libraries’ ability to provide to reach community members in their homes: “Our educational and entertaining science programming. goals for the virtual science programs were to pro- All of the collaborations centered on extending the vide educational and entertaining content to library ability of public libraries to provide the public with patrons in the safety of their homes. We want to quality science programming, either directly or by stay relevant . . . so connecting with them through training library staff to run programs; as one public the library system keeps us in touch and top of librarian explained, “Collaborating with science mind.” Other more organization-specific goals organizations brings a level of expertise to our library included promoting healthy living and health liter- programs that we don’t have in and of ourselves.” acy and educating the public about ecological Another librarian had similar comments about their responsibility and sustainable living.

VOLUME 60 Number 3 PUBLIC LIBRARIES 21 FEATURE / PARTNERING WITH SCIENCE ORGANIZATIONS

The specific roles taken on completely by each collaborator varies unsuccessful from program to program, mostly but the most common model unsuccessful for collaborations has public moderately libraries hosting programs successful that are planned, with vary- ing levels of input from the successful library, and presented by very representatives from the successful collaborating science organi- 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 zation. The next most com- Figure 1. Perception of program success in terms of benefits to the community or mon model involves science public. Participants were asked to rate the success of their programs in terms of organizations providing their benefits to the community or to the public using a five-point Likert scale from training to library staff in completely unsuccessful to very successful. order to empower librarians to plan and present science completely programming on their own; unsuccessful seven of the programs dis- mostly cussed in survey responses unsuccessful fell into this category. A com- mon pain point across both of moderately successful these arrangements was mar- keting; with only a couple of successful exceptions public libraries took on sole responsibility for very successful marketing the programs. Several survey participants, 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 both from public libraries Figure 2. Perception of program success in terms of benefits to contributing organization. and science organizations, Participants were asked to rate the success of their programs in terms of their benefits to their organization using a five-point Likert scale from completely unsuccessful to very mentioned that getting the successful. word out about their pro- gram was a challenge and recommended having all collaborators contribute to very successful for their organizations (see figures 1 program promotion, or even bringing in additional and 2). Attendance was the most common measure community organizations to assist with marketing. used to demonstrate program success. Many partici- The majority of participants perceived the collabo- pants stated that attendance counts for collaborative rations as successful both for their community and for programs were notably higher than other library pro- their organization. On a five-point scale including grams targeting similar age groups, with a couple not- completely unsuccessful, mostly unsuccessful, moder- ing that science and STEM themes in general are often ately successful, successful, and very successful, 92% effective ways to boost program attendance. By bring- of participants rated the program as at least moder- ing in experts in the science topics the public has ately successful for their community and organization, demonstrated an interest in, partnerships with science 46% rated the programs as very successful for the organizations can help increase library program atten- public or their community, and 42% rated them as dance, and in doing so, provide libraries with an

22 PUBLIC LIBRARIES VOLUME 60 Number 3 PARTNERING WITH SCIENCE ORGANIZATIONS / FEATURE

opportunity to connect more community members to ȕ “Start the conversation and see where it can existing library resources. Other metrics for success go.” Participants recommended reaching out to included increased circulation of science-related nearby universities, community organizations, materials, feedback from participants, observation of museums, and extension agents. One participant participant interest and engagement levels, and librar- recommended checking out the Night Sky ians’ perception of their own ability to run science Network to find a local astronomy club. programs or teach science concepts and literacy. ȕ “When it comes to collaboration, do not be The two participants who ranked their programs afraid to ask! Find out what the organization as unsuccessful may actually have intended to rank needs from you in order for the collaboration to them as successful or very successful, as both par- benefit them and be open about what it is that ticipants indicated that the programs were success- you need as well.” In any collaboration, ful or very successful in their responses to other communication is critical to success. A thorough survey questions. Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) detailing In addition to ranking their collaborative pro- the timeline and expected role and contributions grams as successful for both the public and the col- of each party can help ensure collaborators are laborating organizations, many participants offered all on the same page. words of encouragement for anyone who might be ȕ Promotion is key. Ideally, collaborative programs interested in creating similar programs in their own should be marketed both by the library and communities. One participant’s suggestion was sim- collaborating science organizations. Participants ply, “Do it. See what happens. You know you’ve suc- noted that programs can always benefit from ceeded when the scribble bot you taught them to more marketing, and having collaborators help make last week has been cannibalized and turned market programs can help reach segments of the into a Lego helicopter this week.” Another librarian community that the library’s marketing may not wrote “I strongly recommend working with sci- be reaching, making collaborations an excellent ence-based institutions to offer innovative STEM- opportunity to expand the library’s reach. and STEAM-oriented programs for patrons of all ȕ Invite relevant partners to attend training ages . . . . Science-based institutions are invested in sessions. For collaborations that involve training nurturing scientists of the future and rely on the for librarians, including relevant partners, such public’s acceptance and support of science to flour- as community programming partners and ish.” Other participants also emphasized the mutu- presenters, can stretch the benefits of the ally beneficial nature of these collaborations and collaboration. compatibility of public libraries and science organi- ȕ Provide a virtual option for in-person programs. zations. One participant from a science organization Whenever possible, record or stream programs noted, “I’m an ardent supporter of libraries, and so they can be viewed online. Participants noted think that this kind of interaction plays to the that the move towards virtual programming strengths of both institutions,” and another stated, instigated by Covid-19 has increased program “Libraries are a natural fit for science programming . . . . attendance. Providing a virtual option expands They are a “third space” and the community already the reach of in-person programs by making them looks to them for programming and learning tools.” accessible to a broader audience. ȕ “We should not be afraid to offer science Lessons Learned programs that feature content we are not Survey respondents were asked to share changes familiar with.” Not all public librarians have they would make if they were to do a similar project strong backgrounds in science, but if a program in the future and offer tips for others interested in idea or topic of interest in the community falls starting similar collaborations. Suggestions included: outside the comfort zone of library staff, reach

VOLUME 60 Number 3 PUBLIC LIBRARIES 23 FEATURE / PARTNERING WITH SCIENCE ORGANIZATIONS

out to experts. Scientists and scientific programs. Additionally, while many science part- institutions have a vested interested in promoting ners provide programs for the public, some also public interest in science, so a gap in librarian offer training sessions that aim to prepare librarians expertise can become the seed for a mutually to lead science programs—these librarian train- beneficial collaboration. ing-oriented collaborations ended up being favor- ȕ Swap programming content and activities. The ites amongst survey respondents. In this way, even impact of a collaboration can be extended beyond one-time collaborative programs can have lasting the end of the partnership by sharing informa- impacts on the quality of science programming tion, games, and other programming ideas. libraries can provide their communities. With a wide array of potential science partners—local uni- The strengths and goals of scientists and public versities, extension agents, amateur astronomy and librarians are complementary, making them natural robotics clubs, museums, planetariums, national partners for connecting the public with science labs, nonprofits, and more—opportunities for col- information, providing enriching science program- laboration abound, and it is well worth reaching out ming, and promoting science literacy. Successful to local experts to explore the possibilities. partnerships not only benefit community members, but also help the collaborating organizations further ACKNOWLEDGMENTS their missions by building community connections This project was made possible in part by the Insti- and expanding their reach, increasing public under- tute of Museum and Library Services Laura Bush standing of and interest in science, and nurturing 21st Century Librarian grant program (RE-13-19- future scientists. Collaborations also provide oppor- 0027-19). The author would also like to thank Dr. tunities for librarians to expand their skillsets and Carol Tenopir for all of her guidance and support programming repertoire. Librarians can often adopt throughout this project, as well as all of the survey activities and games from programs led by science respondents for taking the time to share their expe- organizations for use in future librarian-led riences and insights. PL

REFERENCES

1. Spencer, B. 2016. “The Book and the Rocket: The Symbiotic libraries. 11 29. https://www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/ Relationship between American Public Libraries and the Space nihs-all-us-research-program-partners-national-library- Program, 1950–2015.” Information & Culture 51 (4): 550-582. medicine-reach-communities-through-local-libraries. 2. Whitney, W., Keselman, A., & Humphreys, B. 2017. “Libraries and 4. Overbey, T., Dotson, D., & Labadie, M. 2018. “Public Libraries Librarians: Key Partners for Progress in Health Literacy and Higher Education Combining Efforts to Create Quality Stem Research and Practice.” Studies in health technology and Children’s Programs.” Public Library Quarterly 37 (1): 21–35; informatics 240: 415–432; Whiteman, E. D., Dupuis, R., Morgan, Henderson, M. 2019. “A Library’s Partnership Experience with A. U., D’Alonzo, B., Epstein, C., Klusaritz, H., & Cannuscio, C. C. University Extension to Provide Program Content.” Journal of 2018. “Public Libraries As Partners for Health.” Preventing Library Administration 59 (4): 409–421; Feldstein, S. 1996. chronic disease 15: E64; Philbin, M. M., Parker, C. M., Flaherty, M. “Expanding the capacity of the public library: Partnerships with G., & Hirsch, J. S. 2019. “Public Libraries: A Community-Level community based environmental groups.” Electronic Green Resource to Advance Population Health.” Journal of community Journal; Taylor, M., Covington, N., & Crone, M.D. 2014. High health 44 (1): 192–199. Point Public Library’s Teaching Garden. 06 04. https://statelibrary 3. NIH. 2017. NIH’s All of Us Research Program partners with the nc.org/ldblog/2014/06/04/innovative-programming-haywood National Library of Medicine to reach communities through local -countys-giving-garden/.

24 PUBLIC LIBRARIES VOLUME 60 Number 3 5. INTERESTED IN LIBRARY SOCIAL WORK TOPICS? JOIN THE PLA SOCIAL WORK INTEREST GROUP fullpageconnect.ala.org ad

page 25 BEYOND THE USUAL PROSPECTS BROADEN YOUR POOL OF PARTNERS AND NURTURE INNOVATIVE PARTNERSHIPS

26 PUBLIC LIBRARIES VOLUME 60 Number 3 FEATURE

Kristin Linscott / [email protected] Kristin Linscott is Development Coordinator, Plano (TX) Public Library  Kristin is currently reading American Dirt by Jeannine Cummins.

Libraries have long collaborated with authors, schools, and public safety professionals as library partners, and there are so many more possibilities! One intentional way for libraries to remain vital is to take a fresh look at the value of partnerships and initiate steps to bring new faces to the table.

Are you looking outward? What opportunities do you see for your library? Knowing your community and collaborating with partners to meet community needs will cement the library’s role as a vital resource for people of all ages. Developing partnerships for your library can add value for library patrons. Some benefits of collaboration include the following:

ȕ Extending the reach of the library, finding new audiences and welcoming new library users. ȕ Expanding the capacity of library staff to provide programs and services, and adding resources. ȕ Enhancing the reputation of the library with heightened visibility among community leaders. ȕ Engaging various segments of the population, including those unfamiliar with the library. ȕ Exploring new opportunities, which promotes staff development and cultivates library advocates.

VOLUME 60 Number 3 PUBLIC LIBRARIES 27 FEATURE / Beyond the Usual Prospects

ȕ Partnerships help libraries to stay connected to information about library activities and resources their communities, and to strengthen their reach, with parents through their newsletters or invite resources, and reputation. staff to participate in family events at their site. Staff providing childcare services benefit from knowing There are abundant opportunities to collaborate about the resources available at their local library, for the good of library patrons and the community and many require in-service hours each year. at large. Focus on one or two areas to begin with, and build from there. Early childhood and parent- ing, career exploration and job search, workforce In our Experience skills development, STEM careers and innovative Plano Public Library reaches out to both the literacy, technology training, small business devel- Council of PTAs and the local school dis- opment, financial education, health and wellness, trict’s Parent Liaison team, presenting an civic involvement and other themes provide ample overview of library programs and resources space for collaboration. The pool of willing collabo- each year. We offer outreach to engage with rators is large. Consider your library’s strategic plan parents and families at events held at the and goals to determine a good starting point, then schools, at which time we provide library dive in! card sign-up, an interactive activity for kids, For those interested in going beyond the usual and an introduction to the value of the public prospects for collaboration, here are some thoughts library. and examples for identifying and collaborating with a variety of potential partners. HIGHER EDUCATION SCHOOLS PLUS Higher education is another great place to look for partnership opportunities. Not only can college Of course, schools are a nat- students benefit from library spaces and services, ural partner for libraries colleges and universities offer various student ser- interested in reaching chil- vices like student success or money management dren, and there are many centers, career exploration tools, job search centers, ways to strengthen interest and services to veterans. Libraries can benefit from in the public library. Reach the knowledge and instructional capability of fac- out to different departments within the school dis- ulty who teach childcare education, entrepreneur- tricts in your area, as well as your local PTA/PTO ship, soft skills, ESL, technology topics and more. groups. In addition to school librarians, try connect- Try reaching out to the career center, the foreign ing with school counselors, bilingual education student center, the engineer- staff, parent engagement liaisons, or other person- ing department, or the con- nel supporting underserved student groups. Offer tinuing education division. In outreach or provide presentations to staff about the many cities, colleges have resources and services your library provides, and Workforce Innovation and how families can access these resources. Opportunity Act (WIOA) Thinking beyond the public schools, consider funds to provide workforce other ways to reach and engage parents of young skills training for various children, including reaching out to child care pro- underserved groups. Ask viders, corporate child care groups, and organiza- questions about their programs and goals and areas tions providing child care assistance such as your of mutuality will become apparent. local workforce board. These groups could share

28 PUBLIC LIBRARIES VOLUME 60 Number 3 Beyond the Usual Prospects / FEATURE

EXPLORE THE NONPROFIT WORLD In our Experience Nonprofit organizations provide a variety of collab- Having regular conversations with our local orative opportunities and make excellent partners. community college, new ideas for collabora- They are accustomed to working collaboratively tion continue to pop up. When their Continu- and serve audiences that could benefit from library ing Education department began a workforce resources. Reach out to your local United Way for a skills “boot camp” to prepare individuals for list of organizations in your community or seek out employment in call center jobs, the college a list through a community coalition or collabora- asked Plano Public Library staff to lead a tive of social services providers. See table 1 for some financial education session. This assisted in examples. preparing these unemployed or underem- Faith-based organizations are often service ployed individuals to plan and manage their minded. Many are willing to open their spaces for income when they landed this new role. library outreach events, both for their own mem- Another area tied to higher education is bers and for the surrounding community. For exam- the Cooperative Extension System. Through ple, faith-based organizations: offer the library a extension, land-grant colleges and universi- table/booth at their resource fairs or events for ties share practical tips and best practices members; open their facilities for community-based with agricultural producers, small business storytime or children’s activities; provide informa- owners, and community members of all ages. tion about upcoming library programs or events in Many extension programs offer educational their newsletter or bulletin; collaborate to provide programs related to health and nutrition, additional services to families they may be assisting personal finance, environmental and horti- with ESL, social services, or job search coaching. cultural endeavors, parenting and child wel- fare, STEM careers, and more. In our Experience Plano Public Library set out to assist those In our Experience with minimal digital access in building basic The Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Center technology skills. Working with Chase Oaks, a has partnered with Plano Public Library to local church that operates ESL and Citizen- provide training for child care providers to ship classes for the community, librarians pro- meet their continuing education require- vide small group and individual instruction ments. AgriLife provided several speakers for related to utilizing email, using a mouse and the conference, and library staff presented keyboard, searching the internet, and other Every Child Ready to Read® (ECRR) concepts basic skills. The library also extends technol- and library resources providers could use, as ogy training to a nonprofit that serves brain well as hosting the conference at the library. injury survivors, as they work to rebuild skills Colleges and nonprofit organizations and self-assurance, and some prepare to return often provide English as a Second Language to work. Providing this training helps individ- (ESL), Adult Literacy, and high school equiv- uals build skills and confidence, and staff find alency education programs. These are areas the work very rewarding. where partnership is easily developed, host- Service organizations such as Junior ing these classes at the library or sharing League, Rotary Clubs, American Association of library resources with these students to University Women and Young Men’s Service encourage them to register for a library card. League are sources of volunteers and

VOLUME 60 Number 3 PUBLIC LIBRARIES 29 FEATURE / Beyond the Usual Prospects

ORGANIZATION’S AREA LIBRARY SERVICES CONNECTION POINT OF SERVICE

General library services, children’s Shelter manager, programs director, programs and materials, Computer/ Domestic violence volunteer coordinator, caseworker/ wi-fi use, job search, tech skills, financial counselor education

General library services, children’s Social services to persons programs and materials, Computer/ Caseworker, program manager, volunteer experiencing homelessness wi-fi use, job search, tech skills, financial coordinator, job/career counselor education, ESL, small business resources

ECRR/1,000 Books Before Kindergarten, Programs manager, home visitor, Early Child welfare/parenting/ Early childhood services and programs, Childhood Intervention (ECI) provider, home visiting parenting collection caregiver, caseworker

STEM programs, financial education, Youth Program director, volunteer coordinator book club, tech skills

General library services, Computer/ Activities director, caseworker, programs Senior services wi-fi use, eMaterials, tech skills, financial manager education, small business resources

Job search resources and services, technology available, tech training, Job search coalition resume design, tools/databases for job Coalition planners search, online learning resources for skill building

Table 1. Connection Points for Working with Nonprofit Organizations

advocates; additionally, their members will technology assistance service, and other learning also benefit from learning about library ser- opportunities at the library. Reach out to the vol- vices including technology training, family unteer coordinator or program coordinator to programs, small business tools, financial edu- begin a conversation and learn about the goals and cation programs, and author events. Reach out needs of local seniors. to their operating board and offer to introduce library resources at one of their membership GOVERNMENT ENTITIES meetings. This is a great way to open the con- versation and bring about new opportunities Numerous government agencies are available to to benefit your community. assist constituents with benefits, training, and civic engagement. Often they offer educational materials or presentations in partnership with the library. AARP volunteers often provide tax preparation Locate your local Area Agency on Aging for access assistance, as well as educating seniors about to Medicare benefits counselors who can present scams and how to protect themselves from fraud. programs about coverage options, when to begin Your local chapter may appreciate learning about benefits, and information to help participants make book clubs, social events, arts programs, wise choices for their own situations. Women

30 PUBLIC LIBRARIES VOLUME 60 Number 3 Beyond the Usual Prospects / FEATURE

Infants and Children (WIC) program staff promote healthy choices and good nutrition from birth, so Development and Economic Education staff to involve them with your storytimes and Family Place connect with the community and promote eco- Library™ play groups. Programs funded by your nomic growth and financial stability for low- state or county Health and Human Services depart- er-income communities and individuals. Their ments offer information on Supplemental Nutrition educational materials are free to the public. Assistance Program (SNAP) and Temporary Assis- The Workforce Development Board tance for Needy Families (TANF) benefits as well as (WDB) in each state, region, or community health care insurance options. Families with small serves as a connector between the U.S. children may not know about all the supportive Department of Labor and local job centers programs available to them, so making representa- that provide services to workers and employ- tives and/or information available to patrons is a ers. They identify local labor needs, and work helpful service. to develop the talent of the local workforce. There are several govern- Their programs help businesses find qualified ment agencies with fantastic workers to meet their present and future resources supporting finan- needs, and help workers acquire skills for cial education. Connect with employment opportunities. WDBs also utilize the Consumer Financial labor market information to develop strate- Protection Bureau (CFPB), gies that focus resources on high growth Federal Deposit Insurance industries for their area, which can include Corporation (FDIC), Federal Trade Commission skills training for local businesses. (FTC) or a Federal Reserve Bank to plan collabora- SCORE, a nonprofit resource partner of tive ventures. Providing their free resources in the the Small Business Administration, and your library is a valuable means of getting involved in local Small Business Development Center financial literacy. With educational tools for chil- (SBDC) are fantastic partners in the area of dren as young as four years old, teenagers, adults, small business development. SCORE provides and seniors, these organizations cover a variety of successful business leaders to serve as men- topics leading to financial capability. Earn, plan, tors to entrepreneurs starting up or growing a spend wisely, save, grow, protect, share, and invest small business. They also provide workshops are a few of the action steps covered. Patrons will addressing a variety of topics from writing a appreciate the opportunity to learn strategies that business plan to promoting your business will help them reach their goals and prepare for with social media. SBDCs also provide one- economic challenges. on-one business consulting and training, beginning with a client needs assessment. Working together, promote both SCORE pro- In our Experience grams and library resources to support small To help library staff gain confidence sharing business. This broadens the audience for both financial education and to introduce credible organizations. resources for this purpose, Plano Public Library invited the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas to provide staff training on theirNavi - gate and Building Wealth curricula. Library In our Experience staff now present both programs for the public The Dallas SCORE office connected us with a and for small group outreach classes. The 12 volunteer in our county who now offers small Federal Reserve Banks have Community business mentoring from one of our libraries,

VOLUME 60 Number 3 PUBLIC LIBRARIES 31 FEATURE / Beyond the Usual Prospects

technology, or health and wellness. Find ways to and regularly delivers educational programs involve corporate associates in programming, such about business start-up needs, how to write a as in station-based activities, presenting a program business plan, and an introduction to the on a skill or career field, or leading a session on a services of the SCORE chapter. Library staff topic like Hour of Code. Another way to collaborate always highlight library resources for small is through outreach! Bring library staff to company business during these programs, and commu- events that allow their employees to explore com- nity response continues to be enthusiastic. munity resources. These opportunities to provide NASA’s Solar System Ambassadors pro- an overview of the many programs and services gram is a nationwide effort working with they can access with a library card will help to pro- volunteers to provide educational programs mote the value of the public library. for the public that raise awareness and excitement around NASA’s space exploration missions and discoveries. Our local Ambassa- In our experience dor offers regular programs with the library Corporate volunteers from Bank of America to share observations from the night sky, and Capital One faithfully assist our librarians solar viewing, facts and findings about Mars, at cultural events for and more. We find adults and kids alike are the community, sta- eager to learn about space exploration and tion-based activities, NASA’s work. “in-reach,” group library tours, tech help sessions, and more. Bank of America asso- ciates regularly present financial education LARGE COMPANIES programs for the community, and Capital One Corporations are motivated to invest in the commu- associates provide career development pro- nities where their employees live and where they do grams at the library. business. Many have formal Corporate Social Responsibility strategies that define their priority areas for investment. Volunteering is often an important part of a cor- porate community rela- A STRATEGIC ENDEAVOR tions plan, and there are a For us, building strategic partnerships is an inten- variety of ways you can tional action to position the library as a contributor, put corporate volunteers a trusted resource, and a valued partner to others. to work that will benefit Libraries have a lot to offer, and corporations and patrons, the library, and community organizations are looking to partner the volunteers. A few with us! Some of the benefits of collaboration are examples: helping with setup and activities for pub- well stated in an article in Inc. magazine.1 The con- lic events, assisting staff in preparing new items for cepts stated in the article can also apply to library shelving, or offering patrons assistance accessing partnerships: online resources or applying for a library card. Corporate associates commonly bring expertise ȕ Collaboration raises our self-awareness. What in areas the library may be advancing, such as are our strengths? What do we bring to the table? STEM careers, 3D design, financial education, On the other hand, where are we weaker, in need

32 PUBLIC LIBRARIES VOLUME 60 Number 3 Beyond the Usual Prospects / FEATURE

of support? We learn, grow, and improve through ȕ Learn to ask the right questions to identify working with others. meaningful partnerships ȕ Scale: we can accomplish more by working ȕ Reframe the partnership conversation and start alongside others. This also relates to reach. by listening—what can we do for you? Collaboration helps us reach new markets and to ȕ Start from “here”—build a plan for partnerships re-energize existing audiences. What does it from where you are now mean to re-energize an audience? To approach ȕ Go beyond programs—identify strategies for an audience from a different perspective or with connecting in your community a different type of program creates a new sense of ȕ Try nontraditional models for taking programs enthusiasm for the library among those who have out and bringing audiences in already been involved, or who needed a new ȕ Develop Partners as library advocates view. ȕ Creative abrasion refers to the useful friction With the current environment of rapid change, working collaboratively brings, helping us to technological innovation, and a shifting landscape keep changing and improving. Both as an for jobs and business, movement is constant. To organization and as individuals. If things are too paraphrase Richard Branson, “to stand still today is easy, we’re probably not stretching! to go backwards . . . and quickly!” Libraries are ȕ Working with other organizations helps us to adaptable. Anticipating the future, generating new take the long view, focusing on the future— solutions, and exercising our innate curiosity will where we are going as an organization and what keep us nimble and relevant. Building partnerships we want to accomplish. It can take time to build makes our work more enjoyable and amplifies our a productive partnership, so patience is impact. PL important. ȕ Partnering also brings opportunities for continued learning for library staff.We want to References continue to grow, to stretch our boundaries as an organization. 1. Natalie Nixon, “5 Reasons Why Collaboration Is Essential in Today’s Business Environment,” Inc., August 15, 2014, A library is part of a larger community, and https://www.inc.com/natalie-nixon/5-reasons-why partnerships are an important way to connect and -collaboration-is-essential-in-today-s-business-environment stay in touch with all that is going on OUTSIDE of .html the library buildings. Developing partnerships that 2. Richard Branson, @richardbranson, October 14, 2015, Innovation align with the values and goals of the library is an endless quest. To stand still today is to go backwards, and fast prepares library staff to be a more responsive part of [Tweet], Twitter, https://twitter.com/richardbranson/ the whole. Collaboration joins organizations in status/654273107532845056?lang=en efforts capable of producing solutions far greater than each group could produce individually.

TAKE A DIP How will you dip your toes into the “partnership pool”? Begin partnership efforts with a look at your library’s strategic goals.

VOLUME 60 Number 3 PUBLIC LIBRARIES 33 FEATURE Partnership SPARKs Success in School Readiness

Through one unique partnership, the Stark Library, in Ohio, collaborates with a like-minded organization, the Early Childhood Resource Center, to deliver the SPARK program and ensure our young children start school ready to learn. The program works to break down barriers to success and provides a team of dedicated professionals preparing children and their families for school. At the heart of the success of the partnership is a shared goal: Giving the youngest members of our community the best chance for school and life success and empowering parents to be their child’s first and best teacher.

Marianna DiGiacomo / [email protected] Marianna DiGiacomo is Community Services Director, Stark (Ohio) Library.  Marianna is currently reading The Midnight Library by Matt Haig.

34 PUBLIC LIBRARIES VOLUME 60 Number 3 It is the first day of pre-kindergarten for an anxious four-year-old boy in Canton, Ohio—we’ll call him Stevie. His first day jitters are eased when he spots his SPARK parent partner, who has been visiting him, and his family, for the past year providing lessons to prepare Stevie for this first day of school. For the past year, he has participated in monthly lessons through the SPARK (Supporting Partnerships to Assure Ready Kids) kindergarten readiness program designed to put him on the road to school success.

Stevie’s parent partner has been with him and his benefited from the support of an entire team dedi- mom on this journey, reading books and engaging in cated to her son’s school success. In addition to her activities designed to build literacy, numeracy, and parent partner, she has been supported by the social emotional skills. The parent partner has mod- school district, the library, a responsive services eled to his mom how to continue the skill-building team, and other parents in the SPARK program. So, activities with her son. She has empowered his on this first day of pre-K, his mom also feels sup- mom to be his advocate, teacher, and supporter as ported and prepared from the dedicated time spent he embarks on his school years. Stevie’s mom has with their parent partner and the SPARK team. She

VOLUME 60 Number 3 PUBLIC LIBRARIES 35 FEATURE / PARTNERSHIP SPARKS SUCCESS IN SCHOOL READINESS has the confidence to help Stevie succeed. On the and supporting parents came together in 2013, the first day of pre-K, the sight of his parent partner, result was a mutually-beneficial collaboration with who has worked to lay a foundation for success, proven results for parents and young children that gives this four-year-old boy the courage he needs to continues to thrive even amid a pandemic. Stark join his new classmates and gives his mom the Library and the Early Childhood Resource Center assurance her son is prepared for success. Stevie are moving the needle together and are affecting and his family will continue to receive lessons with positive change, resulting in children who are ready their parent partner until he begins kindergarten. for school and outperform their peers throughout The SPARK program works to break down barriers their school years. Mary Brady, SPARK Ohio Direc- to success and builds skills needed for school suc- tor, agrees there is tremendous opportunity to bring cess long before the child walks into school. about change when agencies with similar missions come together to work toward the same goals. “The It Started with a Partnership collaboration with the library has provided more Community partnerships are vital for libraries. Part- capacity to offer SPARK services across Stark nerships add value to the services and programs County. I call this a win-win.” offered to patrons. By building successful partner- ships, libraries and the organizations they partner Stark Library offers SPARK with can expand reach, combine limited resources, In 2013, the Sandy Valley School District applied for and make a greater impact in the community. grants and began working with Stark Library as a During the pandemic, it is more important than community partner. Vic Johnson, Sandy Valley Ele- ever that libraries work with community partners to mentary School Principal, recognized the need for sustain collaborations that benefit those struggling school readiness, and the library was committed to to adjust to a different way of life. helping children prepare for school. The two orga- In Stark County, Ohio, early literacy and school nizations worked together to brainstorm ideas for readiness have been priorities for the library and the grants to prepare children for school success. the community for many years. Through one unique One idea that rose to the top was adding a SPARK partnership, Stark Library collaborates with a like- parent partner to deliver the in-home Kindergar- minded organization, the Early Childhood Resource ten-readiness program to Sandy Valley preschool Center, to deliver the SPARK program and ensure children. Sandy Valley Schools received their grants. our young children start school ready to learn. The The library hired a parent partner, and this was the program works to break down barriers to success beginning of a collaboration that would eventually and provides a team of dedicated professionals pre- include four other school districts and a partnership paring children and their families for school. At the with the Early Childhood Resource Center that is heart of the success of the partnership between the thriving as it leads our community’s children on the Early Childhood Resource Center and Stark Library road to success. is a shared goal: Giving the youngest members of Johnson is a principal committed to supporting our community the best chance for school and life families in his district and says SPARK has been a success and empowering parents to be their child’s vital partnership for Sandy Valley families for the first and best teacher. past nine years. “Parent partners are advocates for Stark County is truly collaborative, with many all the families they serve. The information parent organizations working together to address families’ partners are able to provide to Sandy Valley educa- needs and developing services to impact the com- tors, and vice versa creates a seamless transition munity. Early literacy and school readiness are top from home to school teaching, learning, and child of mind for many organizations. When two of these development. Sandy Valley families are very thank- organizations with a laser focus on school readiness ful that SPARK exists. It truly does take a village to

36 PUBLIC LIBRARIES VOLUME 60 Number 3 PARTNERSHIP SPARKS SUCCESS IN SCHOOL READINESS / FEATURE PHOTO COURTESY OF THE AUTHOR THE OF COURTESY PHOTO

Danielle is a Stark County (OH) Library SPARK parent partner. She visits with families each month, helping them build a strong foundation of literacy skills. One family Danielle worked with was Christine and her two children Ella and Eliyah. Christine first discovered SPARK more than 15 years ago when her oldest child was in the program. She was so impressed with SPARK that she continued the tradition with her other children. Each month Danielle visits with Ella and her younger brother, Eliyah, to explore a storybook (which they get to keep) and learn a series of fun activities to practice with their mom. These activities can range from letter knowledge to using scissors correctly—all important skills for future kindergarteners. Ella, once reserved, has come out of her shell as she masters complex skills. Watching her confidence grow is exciting for Danielle.

raise a child. In addition to what SPARK does for provide support from all angles. And SPARK is a children is what SPARK does for caregivers. Care- great example of what happens when the library, givers are comfortable and confident in working community organizations, schools, and families with their child’s teacher because meaningful rela- work together in one common goal.” tionships have been established well before the first day of school.” Julia Shaheen, Stark Library Literacy What is SPARK? Manager, oversees the SPARK program for the SPARK is a voluntary, family-focused intervention library and sees the program’s benefits and the program working with families, schools, and the impact it has had on young children in our commu- community to help children get ready for kinder- nity. “Libraries thrive when they work in tandem garten by building reading, language, and social with the community organizations,” Julia states. skills. This early education intervention program “Our community thrives when each organization has as its focus increasing parental engagement and works together to help one another. Families thrive advocacy. SPARK began as a collaboration between when all these organizations work together to the W.K. Kellogg Foundation and the Sisters of

VOLUME 60 Number 3 PUBLIC LIBRARIES 37 FEATURE / PARTNERSHIP SPARKS SUCCESS IN SCHOOL READINESS

Charity Foundation of Canton in 2003. During its the child, like hearing, speech, and behavior. The first year, SPARK served 140 children in two Stark parents and parent partner also sign a contract County school districts. Today, SPARK is producing stating that both the parent and parent partner positive results in 22 school districts in nine Ohio will be at the regularly scheduled visits and partic- counties. SPARK programs serve over 2,000 chil- ipate in the lessons. dren annually. The Sisters of Charity continues to Once the assessments are completed, the parent invest in SPARK. Since 2003, the program has also partner begins regular monthly visits. The lessons received funding from seven United Way chapters take about an hour and are all based on specific and 60 foundations, as well as hospitals, corpora- children’s picture books. They start with basic early tions, and individuals who have invested in the pro- literacy skills like pointing out the front cover, the gram. Historically, SPARK has also received $8.8 title, and the author. They work on pre-reading million in public support from the State of Ohio, five skills like prediction and prior knowledge about a local library systems, three local departments of Job particular subject. Then they read the book. Even- and Family Services, and 17 school districts. tually, by the end of the program, the parent will read the book with the child instead of the parent How SPARK Works partner. The parent partner then does extension Pre-COVID, parents learned about SPARK from activities like patterning, counting, and dividing. specially trained parent partners at a variety of They may work on skills specific to the child’s need recruiting events. Parent partners attended events in addition to the lesson plan requirements. At the at schools, farmers’ markets, the library, and in the end of the lesson, the parent receives a bag with an community, and spoke to parents one-on-one extension activity card and items like construction about the kindergarten readiness program. Inter- paper, play dough, chalk, and crayons. There is ested families of three and four-year-old children potential for a child to receive more than twelve registered for the program and were matched with books at the end of the program if they have com- a parent partner who worked in their school dis- pleted each lesson. They must complete at least trict. Each SPARK family then worked with the eight lessons to have an impact and show growth. parent partner who visited each month, bringing SPARK addresses the skill-gap that can start as books, supplies, activities, and resources to the early as kindergarten, putting nearly half of children family in their home. During the pandemic, fami- behind before they even start school. lies still meet with their parent partners, but now SPARK Parent Partners aren’t just coaches; they the visits are conducted virtually, or socially dis- form close bonds with the families they work with. tanced in the library. SPARK families also receive They are trained to identify signs of barriers to social and emotional support and can meet other school readiness and connect families with the families who are also getting ready for Kindergar- resources that really make a difference in their lives. ten. SPARK lessons are developed around Ohio’s Children who have quality experiences with early Early Learning and Development Standards to learning are more likely to stay in school, go to col- help SPARK families focus on the things their chil- lege, and have successful careers. The results speak dren will need to know to be ready for Kindergar- for themselves: SPARK children score higher on ten. During the first two home visits, parent part- state testing than their peers—even years later, and ners work with the parent and child to assess the it’s all thanks to the partnerships and collaborations child’s development and knowledge based on his/ that make it work. her age and stage. This is done with four different assessments. This information is used to help plan Addressing a Community Need learning goals for the child every nine weeks and Every child benefits from early learning. However, to set up any referrals to community resources for research has shown children from low-income and

38 PUBLIC LIBRARIES VOLUME 60 Number 3 PARTNERSHIP SPARKS SUCCESS IN SCHOOL READINESS / FEATURE PHOTO COURTESY OF THE AUTHOR THE OF COURTESY PHOTO When asked what her favorite part of SPARK is, Ella proclaims, “Miss Danielle is fun and does fun stuff.” underresourced communities have even more to CEO and Executive Director Mary Ellen Icaza gain. Quality early experiences and interventions believes SPARK is helping grow the next generation can help put children on the path to life success. In of leaders. “The SPARK program engages families Stark County, the Stark Community Foundation in a truly unique and personal way. Not only are our commissioned a report in 2017, Strengthening Stark, parent partners helping children get ready for which was a clear-eyed assessment of the current school, but they are helping them develop a founda- economic and social health of the county. The tion for when they enter the workforce. The critical report predicted failing to act aggressively will skills that these children learn from being a part of result in a different kind of transformation for our this program position them for future life-long suc- county, as our population will continue to get cess.” smaller, older, and poorer. School readiness is key to SPARK supports the premise that the experi- a child’s long-term success. One in four children in ences of early childhood that take place in nurtur- Stark County lives in poverty. We know education is ing environments are critical for the brain and emo- the path out of generational poverty, and literacy is tional development of a child. In Stark County, the handrail. The SPARK program gives children an there is a need to provide early interventions and to opportunity to achieve school success with an eye address the needs of children in underresourced to revitalizing the future of our community. Early areas of our county. According to the Ohio Depart- interventions do matter and providing high-quality ment of Education, only 41% of Ohio’s children programs that connect parents to resources and enter Kindergarten ready to learn.1 The other 59% provide tools to foster engagement will give chil- have not yet developed the fundamental skills they dren the best chance for achievement. Stark Library will need to succeed. Parent engagement is key to

VOLUME 60 Number 3 PUBLIC LIBRARIES 39 FEATURE / PARTNERSHIP SPARKS SUCCESS IN SCHOOL READINESS

2018–2019 AVERAGE KRA SCORES All Ohio SPARK Sites

273.0 271.7 271.8 269.7

265.6 264.4 262.7 263.3 260.7 259.3

Overall Score** Social Foundations Mathematics** Language & Literacy** Physical Well-Being & Motor Development**

Non-Participating Children (n=7625) SPARK Children (n=584) **Statistically Significant (p<.01)

Figure 1. 2018–2019 Average KRA Scores, All Ohio SPARK Sites building successful futures for our children. What learn is the beginning of transforming our commu- makes SPARK different in its approach is the one- nity into a growing and prosperous one. When a on-one, sustained relationship building that is child walks through the door on the first day of essential to the program’s success. Parents are sup- school prepared to learn, their chance for school ported and are given the resources they need. The and life achievement improves. parent becomes involved in the child’s learning. Parents do not watch as the parent partner teaches Proven Results their child; instead, they learn how to be the For fifteen consecutive years, a team of independent teacher. The skills modeled during the visits are evaluators from Kent State University has analyzed skills parents can carry with them as their children SPARK’s effectiveness using a rigorous research grow. That is why SPARK is vitally important to the design. Each year the findings show children partic- future of our county. When parents are engaged, ipating in SPARK outperform their non-SPARK children have a better chance for success. The goal peers and that participating in SPARK gives Ohio’s of the ECRC and the Library is to ensure we are children the edge that leads to success, both in laying the foundation not only for kindergarten school and in life (see Figure 1). SPARK’s success success but for school and life success. When a points to parent engagement. When the parent is an child begins school unprepared, the effects can integral part of their child’s learning, the child impact the child and the community for years to adjusts to the school environment more easily and come. Helping children enter kindergarten ready to has a greater chance of success. When a child starts

40 PUBLIC LIBRARIES VOLUME 60 Number 3 PARTNERSHIP SPARKS SUCCESS IN SCHOOL READINESS / FEATURE

school already behind, they may never catch up. two teams reinforced the commitment of both orga- Evaluators have found that SPARK children start nizations to the program. The shared space allowed Kindergarten far more ready to succeed. SPARK’s the parent partners and supervisors from both orga- success lies in its philosophy: parent engagement is nizations to work collaboratively to deliver the pro- essential for a child’s school readiness and long- gram in the community. It further strengthened the term achievement. Typically, children who com- partnership and our efforts to serve families. plete this program do significantly better on grade- level assessments than those not in the SPARK Stark Library Early Literacy Initiatives program. Data from the first group of children to At Stark Library, we have made early literacy a stra- complete the program was analyzed, and when the tegic focus. We know good habits are formed early, children were in 5th grade, they were still outper- and it is our goal to help the youngest members in forming their non-SPARK peers. our community get off to their best start. We are committed to empowering parents by giving them How It’s Going—The Partnership Grows information, resources, and tools that help them The blending of two organizations to implement raise children who love to read and want to learn. one program can seem like a daunting challenge. We do this through storytimes, our early literacy The Early Childhood Resource cards (which provide parents with Center and Stark Library’s part- The results speak for tips and tricks to build early skills), nership has grown and developed themselves: SPARK 1000 Books Before Kindergarten, our and continues to evolve as we children score higher on Young Moms Club for teen and work toward the common goal of state testing than their young parents, Dolly Parton’s Imagi- **Statistically Significant (p<.01) preparing children for school nation Library, SPARK, and more. peers—even years later, success. This goal, and our com- We have a seat at the table in our mitment to families in our com- and it’s all thanks to the community and work side by side munity, is what drives us to make partnerships and with schools and organizations to our partnership successful. collaborations that ensure early literacy is at the fore- Today, after a nine year partner- make it work. front in our community, and that the ship, we remain committed to children of our community arrive for preparing children for school and empowering par- their first day of Kindergarten prepared to succeed ents to advocate for their children. Both the ECRC and be tomorrow’s leaders. We do not do it alone and Stark Library work to make the program a suc- but through strong community partnerships that cess. The ECRC and library both employ parent are thriving and making a difference for the young- partners. The library’s four parent partners work in est members of the community. five different school districts in the county. The Remember Stevie? When this four-year-old boy ECRC also employs parent partners and provides from Canton, Ohio, walks through the door on his the materials, lessons, and responsive service first day of kindergarten, having graduated from team—a team of people often involving a speech SPARK, he will be able to say confidently, “I’m therapist, behavior specialist, child psychologist, ready!” PL and representatives from the school district like teachers or administrators. At the onset of the part- nership, the ECRC parent partners and managers Reference worked out of an office in Canton and the library staff worked at the library. Eventually, the partner- 1. http://education.ohio.gov/getattachment/Topics/Early-Learning/ ship grew into both organizations sharing office Kindergarten/Ohios-Kindergarten-Readiness-Assessment/ space at the library. The bringing together of the KRA-Annual-Report-2018-2019-1.pdf

VOLUME 60 Number 3 PUBLIC LIBRARIES 41 BY THE BOOK SHARES A BOOK WE THINK YOU SHOULD READ AND A CONVERSATION WITH THE AUTHOR

BY THE BOOK BY Ask, Listen, Empower Catherine Hakala-Ausperk / [email protected]

Catherine Hakala-Ausperk is the owner of Libraries Thrive Consulting.

he editors of this book conversation, they shared their begin by stating some- insights and ideas. Tthing obvious to us all, but that still bears repeating: “The PL: In one chapter, Sarah Goodwin effort to make good on librari- Thiel talks about how trust begins anship’s greatest goal—to forge a with individuals. What do you think is world that invites our communi- the most important part of her ties to learn, grow, and improve— message about how to build trust? cannot be done behind a refer- MDF & SO: Trust is something that ence desk or around a conference is often tossed around as part of Ask, Listen, table. It requires legwork and the librarian ethos, but we don’t Empower embeddedness, partnership and often pause to explore what it Grounding Your Library shared power!” means. Sarah’s chapter provides Work in Community This does of course beg the this exploration by asking: what Engagement question—How do we do that? In does it mean to be trustworthy, Mary Davis Fournier Ask, Listen, Empower: Grounding and how do library workers, as and Sarah Ostman, Eds. Your Library Work in Community individuals, get there? She points Chicago, ALA Editions, 2021 / 176 p./ Engagement, editors Mary Davis out that while the Core Values of $49.99 ISBN 978-0-8389-4740-1 Fournier and Sarah Ostman offer Librarianship are the foundation both supportive reasoning for for library culture, these values their claim and practical exam- manifest the work that library so on, every single day. And she ples of how to achieve these con- staff do to support democracy, says that all of this work, steeped nections. In a recent education, lifelong learning, and in a commitment to the greater

42 PUBLIC LIBRARIES VOLUME 60 Number 3 Ask, Listen, Empower / By the Book good, fosters trust. Sarah looks at ownership over their library incredibly important to creating public trust through the some- again. This might sound like one a community-responsive strat- what different perspectives of big action, but when you break it egy: What kind of community do three public philosophers to see down, you see that a community you want to live in? How is that how they define trust and what engagement effort is a series of different than what we have we might learn from them. We small, calculated risks. Her now? What are the barriers keep- chose this chapter to close the supervisor took a risk by giving ing us from being the community book in part because it’s such a her the title of “community we want? It’s no coincidence that wonderful to Nancy librarian” instead of “branch the other libraries doing this Kranich’s opening chapter on the librarian” and encouraging her to work start with variations on essential role that libraries must spend her hours out in the neigh- those broad questions—adjusting play in strengthening our democ- borhood instead of only in the the wording to suit. SCLD found racy. The most important part of library. Tracie joined neighbor- that the process of listening Sarah’s message is one that reso- hood organizations (and while gathering such broad and nates from beginning to end in attended the meetings!), sched- deep community response can be this book. It’s the importance of uled programming that reflected as transformative for staff as the listening to different voices and the diversity of the community, strategic plan is for the library as perspectives and learning from and built relationships with peo- an institution. them on a human level so we can ple beyond the library doors. build strong communities Each of these steps toward a PL: Book clubs have been around together. more proactive model of librari- longer than most librarians—and anship involved stepping beyond that’s saying something! What might PL: In the foreword, Tracie D. Hall a comfort zone. they look like according to Hadiya suggests that one of the best ways to Evans’ Reimagining? make significant change is to take PL: I’m a huge fan of effective MDF & SO: Book clubs are gener- risks. But risk is scary! Do you agree strategic planning. In Chapter 11, ally an opportunity for people to with her and, if so, how can one know Amber Williams described a express their reactions and feel- if they’re taking the right risk the “Listening Tour” that would include a ings about a piece of literature, right way? very modern type of questioning. and to learn from one another. MDF & SO: You probably won’t What are the most important Often times, that conversation is know whether it is the right way! questions you think should be part of the whole point—a way to get Fear of failure is why many peo- the Ask? people reading, talking, and ple don’t take risks—they are, by MDF & SO:The process that Amber socializing, and to strengthen ties definition, uncertain. But let’s be describes—how Spokane County to the library. Depending on the clear—Tracie is not talking about Library District (SCLD) posi- discussion topic, the book club taking risks that are not tioned community listening as format can also be an opportu- grounded in reality. In her fore- the starting point for effective nity for library staff to listen to word, she talks about how, when strategic planning—hinges on the people, take note of their needs she was a librarian at the Hart- idea that the library will best and wants, and feed them back ford Public Library, fresh out of serve the community by deeply into the library’s goal-setting library school, she became a understanding the concerns, cycle. Following the police kill- “community librarian” and hopes and needs of community ings of Michael Brown, Eric Gar- became active in her under-re- members. The questions the ner, and so many others, Hadiya’s sourced community and helped SCLD team set out with may Denver Public Library (DPL) her residents feel a sense of seem broad, but they are team created a reading and

VOLUME 60 Number 3 PUBLIC LIBRARIES 43 By the Book / Ask, Listen, Empower

discussion series so people could most compelling shift suggested is better partnerships. How can we use read and discuss race and other the notion that being an engaged Ask, Listen, and Empower to attract social justice topics with respect leader means valuing distributed new partners and how can we and compassion. That creation leadership—recognizing that strengthen existing ones? And, what’s and curation, in and of itself, was leadership can come from any the point of doing either? an act of community engage- level and encouraging people and MDF & SO: There are so many ment. But the librarians also partners to step up as their skills positives that come with part- listened carefully to what partici- are needed. This means expand- nerships. They bring new ideas pants said there and responded ing tolerance for learning and to the table and help us achieve with new programming. For failure, as well as valuing and things that we couldn’t do or example, some book club partici- recognizing expertise. afford alone. Getting back to pants said they were unsure how your first question, finding to respond when they witnessed PL: Many libraries are looking to worthwhile partners allows racism and micro-aggressions, so develop bigger and stronger libraries to share the risk that the library created a workshop to volunteer programs. What does comes with starting any new teach them. DPL’s reimagined Nancy Kim Phillips suggest to make endeavor. Any community book club is both the result of this work and what’s your best advice engagement effort you under- community engagement and a for getting—and keeping—great take will be richer and more tool for continual improvement. volunteers? successful with partners by your MDF & SO: Nancy’s Skokie Public side. Not to mention, if it’s a PL: Leaders clearly control what Library has had tremendous good partnership, more enjoy- libraries do but, until very recently, success with their volunteer able! Cindy’s chapter is terrific most haven’t really spent much time program. In her chapter, Nancy because of its nuts-and-bolts thinking about how what they do describes several of their most approach to partnership—and to affects our workplace culture. Erica successful volunteer ventures, developing a partnership mind- Freudenberger and Susan Hildreth including the early literacy pro- set. Where should you look for suggest we put the community in the gram Read to Me, the ESL One- partners? How should you center of that culture. Why? And on-One tutoring program, and a approach them? How do you more importantly, how would you volunteer program specifically know if they’re working? What suggest we do this? for people with disabilities. do you bring to the table? One of MDF & SO: Why? Because if the Again, so much of making a vol- our favorite adages from her library’s work is going to be unteer program successful chapter is “easy projects with grounded in community engage- comes down to listening and easy partners.” By that, Cindy ment, that means that library staff relationship-building. As Nancy means we should start small. and trustees need to move from says, “Be open to what volun- Don’t jump right in with a coali- being institutionally focused to teers can do and who they might tion-building initiative or an looking at what they do through be. Both your library and com- enormous program series; start the lens of the community. Erica munity will benefit from their with one conversation or one and Susan provide great details of passion, creativity and unique event. Get to know your partner just how many libraries have abilities.” and understand what working reoriented their job descriptions, together means to both organi- shifted norms for when and PL: The focus of this issue is zations. Great community work where library work takes place Partnerships. In Chapter 4, Cindy begins with the community you and how programs are conceived Fesemyer suggests we can strengthen surround yourself with—your and budgeted. But perhaps the the impact of our work with more and kindred spirits in this work.

44 PUBLIC LIBRARIES VOLUME 60 Number 3 Ask, Listen, Empower / By the Book

PL: What else can you advise to help MDF & SO: Start with yes. Spend going to fail sometimes (and try libraries that are seeking to ground more time outside your library. to be OK with it). That’s four to their work by engaging communities? Share the workload—you can do start! PL What are your top three tips? more together. And know you’re

PublicLibrariesONLINE publiclibrariesonline.org Digital Highlights

Define & Design: The Bookstore Model of Customer Service “Excuse me? Where can I pay for this book?” “Why don’t you have the second one in this series in stock?” “Where is your self-help section?” As former and current booksellers, it’s no surprise to us when patrons approach library staff with questions like these. New users often conflate libraries with the way retail stores operate. In this situation a service provider has a choice—become exasperated while taking the time to explain that this is a library and doesn’t work that way, or just answer the question. Read the entire article here: http://publiclibrariesonline.org/2021/05/define-design-the-bookstore- model-of-customer-service/.

COVID-19 Operating Restrictions Ease but Differences Remain Fourteen months ago the COVID-19 pandemic swept across the country. By the beginning of April the vast majority of public library buildings were closed to the public. Over the subsequent months, some libraries dipped their toes into offering curbside checkouts before opening their doors for limited ser- vices. Other systems remained stuck in a full closure aside from virtual services. Now that vaccines are available and virus transmission rates are dropping, public library service is largely being restored across the United States, but at vastly different timelines.Read the entire article here: http://publiclibrarie- sonline.org/2021/05/covid-19-operating-restrictions-ease-but-differences-remain/.

Ransomware Attacks at Libraries: How They Happen, What to Do Malicious hacking attacks of institutions are on the rise, particularly after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Corporations, including nonprofits like public libraries, face greater dangers from these attacks. Read the entire article here: http://publiclibrariesonline.org/2021/05/ransomware-attacks-at-libraries- how-they-happen-what-to-do/.

Learning From Our Statistics—Twelve Simple Rules for Understanding and Using Our Numbers Better To utilize statistics effectively, librarians need to have an understanding of the underlying principles. An oft-neglected area of study in librarianship, statistical fundamentals are approached here in a sim- ple rules format with examples. The purpose is to help librarians gather and use statistical information in new and better ways. This is of particular concern at this point in time when traditional library sta- tistics like circulation and visitation are dropping nationwide due, in part, to the proliferation of conve- nient digital information sources. Read the entire article here: http://publiclibrariesonline.org/2021/05/ learning-from-our-statistics/.

VOLUME 60 Number 3 PUBLIC LIBRARIES 45 info-graphic

BENCHMARK BRIEFINGS FOR PEER COMPARISON

hether you are dipping your community characteristics to better Demographic characteristics are Wtoes into peer comparison for enable libraries to quickly benchmark based on the census tract in which the first time or can name each of themselves against those with similar the administrative entity is located your library’s IMLS-defined character- attributes. The key measures were and come from the Census Bureau’s istics in your sleep, PLA’s Benchmark determined from IMLS FY 2018 Public 2019 American Community Survey. Briefings will give you a snapshot of Libraries Survey data and are The example above shows the how your library measures up against reported at the Administrative Entity benchmarks for town and rural librar- others. level. ies, which comprise 69.1 percent of The Benchmark Briefings are a The characteristics used for peer all US public libraries. The info- series of infographics that highlight comparison are shown by both total graphic shows that they have a key measures commonly used by and per capita figures. They include: median expenditure of $33.9 per public libraries when making deci- library legal basis (e.g., municipal or capita. These libraries have a median sions about investments. This new district), region, locale (city, suburb, of 14.8 FTE staff per 25,000 people. resource can be used to learn how or town/rural), percentage of commu- If you work at a town or rural library your library’s expenditures, staff, nity members identifying as persons with lower expenditures or staffing, collections, circulation, visits and of color, and percentage of commu- you could use this peer comparison programs compare to others. The nity members age 25 or over with a data to confidently advocate for data are organized by library and college degree or higher. increases. PL

The Benchmark Briefings and summaries of each key measure can be found at: http://www.ala.org/pla/data/benchmarkbriefings. Questions about the Benchmark Briefings? Contact [email protected]. Compiled by Nellie Barrett, Program Officer, PLA.

46 PUBLIC LIBRARIES VOLUME 60 Number 3 fullpage ad page C03 fullpage ad page C04