HOW TO ORGANIZE AND MARKET SUCCESSFUL – AND ENJOYABLE – PROGRAMS AT YOUR LIBRARY. Publicity and Promotions for Library Events

Step 1: Get to Know your Patrons – and the Community Determine who Visits the Library. Identify User Groups who you WANT to visit the Library. Discover Community Interests Define Visitation Hours and Availability

Step 2: Get to Know the Potential Speaker Ask for References and Relevant Experience Clearly Define the Speaker’s Needs and Expectations Inquire if the Speaker has Promotional Ideas or Platforms

NOW WHAT... Great News! The Library is willing to Host the Program.

WHO DOES THE PROGRAM APPEAL TO? WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO HOST THE EVENT? (CONSIDER COMPETING EVENTS AND HOLIDAYS). IDENTIFY POTENTIAL COMMUNITY SPONSORS TO HELP FUND AND/OR PROMOTE THE EVENT. Step 3: Identify the Program’s Specific Theme and Audience

A. CREATE MARKETING MATERIALS B. SUBMIT A PRESS RELEASE TO THE LOCAL NEWSPAPER, AS WELL AS RELEVANT WEEKLY AND MONTHLY PUBLICATIONS. - FOLLOW UP WITH A PHONE CALL - PURSUE ARTICLES AND EVENT CALENDAR LISTINGS C. IN-HOUSE PUBLICITY: POSTERS, FLIERS, SOCIAL MEDIA POSTS, EVENTS CALENDAR, GENERAL ANNOUNCEMENTS, LIBRARY SIGN OR KIOSK Step 4: Market the Program

Marketing Continued... D. Share Event Information and Fliers with Associated Groups. E. Search for Relevant Meet-Up Organizations and Post Event Information. F. Think Outside the Box! Consider alternative audiences who might enjoy the event.

CLEARLY COMMUNICATE WITH THE PRESENTER CONCERNING ALL EXPECTATIONS INCLUDING ARRIVAL TIME, PROGRAM LENGTH, INAPPROPRIATE MATERIAL, PAYMENT, AND BOOK SALES CONSIDER SERVING FOOD AND REFRESHMENTS ALLOW PLENTY OF TIME FOR QUESTIONS AND BOOK SALES Step 5: Deliver!

Additional Thoughts on Library Programs To host successful events a library should establish a culture of programs. Presenters are often willing to give several lectures within the same system. This can result in reduced speaker fees and increased publicity. Post-Event Surveys are an Invaluable Source of Information. Consider Offering an “Add-On” Event Outside the Library.