Public Relations and Programming

Posted: May 20, 2004

Public relations goals of the library are: to promote a good understanding of the library's objectives and services among governing officials, civic leaders, and the general public; to promote active participation in the varied services offered by the library to people of all ages.

The Library Board recognizes that good public relations involve every person who has connection with the library. The board urges its own members and every staff member to realize that he or she represents the library in every public contact. Good service supports good public relations.

The director and the youth services librarians will be expected to make presentations and to participate in community activities to promote library services. A reasonable amount of library time will be allowed for preparation and speaking. Materials to be used by press, radio, or television will be approved by the director.

The board may establish a budget to cover costs related to printing, publication, supplies, and miscellaneous needs related to the public relations effort.

Reasonable limits may be placed on the number of presentations made to or on behalf of any one group in order to accommodate presentations made to a wide variety of individuals or groups. If deemed appropriate by the library director, individualized instruction in the use of library materials and equipment may be provided by the staff of the library at a frequency that fits within the time constraints of the library's schedule of activities. Group visits to the library are encouraged and at least one week's advance notice is requested before any group visit. Visits must fit into the schedule of the library director or youth service librarian if the group requests their time. Up to two visits, which require the scheduled time of the director or youth services librarian, may be prearranged by any organization or class within a calendar year. Additional visits will be considered for an organization or class if time and library staff schedules permit.

A "program" is a planned interaction between the library staff and the program participants for the purpose of promoting library materials, facilities, or services, as well as offering the community an informational, entertaining, or cultural experience.

Programming includes such activities as storytime, films and activities on no-school or after-school days, summer library programs for children and/or adults, speakers for the varied interests of library users, etc.

The board, in conjunction with the library director, will establish a budget and goals for programming to facilitate the effective implementation of this service.