Director’s Thoughts – 9/5/19

I talked about outreach a few months ago in a director’s thoughts post, but I’m coming back around to it again. Clearly it’s something that I really enjoy doing. Most of my day is spent putting out little fires, talking with staff and going to meetings (so many meetings). So when I get the opportunity to do something a little different, I jump at the chance. Here are my Director’s Thoughts – 9/5/19.

Middle School Outreach

Our middle school principal reached out to ask if the library was interested in addressing families on Back-to-School Night. And how do you say no to an offer like that? Anytime you have someone asking for you to present, it’s a great idea to do so if you can. I was given 2-3 minutes to share just a few things about the library in front of all the parents. And we also set up a table that families could stop by to ask more questions.

I must have piqued some interest as we had a number of families stop by the table. We love seeing families that we regularly see in the library! Plus, we saw a lot of new faces as well asking questions about programs and resources.

Public Speaking & Being an Introvert

I love, seriously love, talking about the library. And I have no qualms about loudly calling out to families as they walk past our table. I try to engage them in getting to know the library just a little bit more. Which makes me chuckle a little, I’m an introvert by nature, but if you put me in front of a crowd of people and ask me to talk about the library, I’ll do it every time. It’s amazing how much your passion for something can help you overcome your own anxiousness about public speaking or talking to strangers.

Overall, it was a great night and we were able to connect with the middle school principal, the librarian and just be a presence in the community which is my goal each and every day in the library. Educating the public about all we have to offer!