After SPLASH! Library Services to Spanish Speakers in South Carolina

SPLASH Participation Seven workshops statewide – regionally sited 110 Library Staff 37 Public Libraries, 1 Academic 20 Community Leaders 4 Librarian Trainers

Who are our Spanish-Speaking Customers? Where in your local area? What countries of origin? Length of residence in U.S. Skill with English language Educational level Economic level Interest in assimilation/acculturation

Facts to know about Latinos in SC 400,000 Latinos live in S.C.; 80% are Mexican Over 200,000 Mexicans work in S.C. Average annual income of $21, % of income sent “home” to country of origin Local (SC) buying power = $3.5 billion in % report minors living in the home

South Carolina Impact South Carolina has the 4th fastest growing Hispanic population in the US Since 2000, 1 in 6 new SC residents is Hispanic In 5% of S.C. homes, a language other than English is spoken

What did we learn? Increased understanding of South Carolina’s Latino population Increased sensitivity to interests and needs of diverse audiences Ideas for programs for Spanish speakers How to promote programs to diverse audiences Begin a plan for implementing a service Introduction to WebJunction online resources

Challenges for Latinos Many struggle with English 25% (in S.C.) live below the poverty level. Meeting basic needs – a daily concern. Many use technology already but do not have home computer Need encouragement to enter facility Isolation, transportation are problems Restrictive legislative efforts

Possible Misconceptions about the Public Library  Public libraries are only for the educated  Library materials are for sale (libreria vs. biblioteca)  Libraries charge fees for services  Libraries are “the government” or will give personal information to government agencies  Libraries only contain materials in English

Challenges for Libraries – Identifying the needs of the community – Making Spanish speakers aware of the library – Making Spanish speakers welcome in the library – Delivering services in a culturally responsive way

Two Simple Truths Everyone (not only Latinos) will embrace the public library tradition if they see direct benefits and if they are welcomed by library staff. There is an active, committed and expert social support network in place – Librarians need to tap into this network.

Getting Started with Services Everything begins with the needs assessment – services must meet real needs Key Component: Community leaders, community partners Promotion must target and appeal to the audience Follow through – keep up momentum

How does your library say “bienvenidos (welcome)”? Signage, library card application in Spanish Greeter for program Emphasize popular formats All library staff on board! Welcome to the Library!

What do librarians need? Programming ideas Assistance with translation Relevant materials Support from colleagues Support from Administration

Since SPLASH! REFORMA Chapter for North and South Carolina – Library Memberships Poster Session at SCLA REFORMA at SCLA, NCLA, other events Meetings in both states E-newsletter Facebook Book Fair?

E-newsletter

Greenville County PL

Anderson County PL – DIA!

Beaufort County PL

¡MUCHAS GRACIAS!