This document discusses the importance of collaboration between local governments and libraries. It emphasizes building relationships with governing bodies, library staff, and the community. Libraries must understand the current economic and technological landscape and establish their continued relevance by connecting to the city's mission of vibrant neighborhoods, a strong business community, and green spaces. The library plays an important role in advocacy and leadership by clearly articulating its mission and demonstrating how it serves community needs and values.

1. Collaboration between Local Government & Local Libraries Kathy Sexton, Derby City Manager NEKLS Spring Assembly April 21, 2011 ** Lawrence

2. Relationships Matter You and me My story Family Circle “Top 10 Towns for Families” 22,158 population; 18 th largest city U.S. News & World Report “50 Best Places to Retire” Who are you?

6. Build Relationships Governing Body City & Library staff Library Board, Friends, & volunteers Schools, parents, churches Naysayers, anti-taxers, coffee shop crowd

7. Respect History Our personal stories Institutional memories Celebrate successes; say “thank you” Educate and inform

8. Understand the Present Economy Competing demands (do more w/less) Civic involvement Technology explosion/TMI Anti-public sector sentiments Difficulty of having civil conversations More…

9. Establish Relevance Library’s role City’s mission Role of each individual

10. Is the Library Relevant? Technology doesn’t replace a library, but it sure changes expectations 1996: 28% of libraries offered Internet 2009: Nearly 100% Connect to City’s mission To create vibrant neighborhoods, nurture a strong business community, and preserve beautiful green spaces.

11. Citations Opportunity for All: How the American Public Benefits from Internet Access at U.S. Libraries Released March 2010; http://tascha.washington.edu/usimpact/OPP4ALL_FinalReport.pdf The Information School, University of Washington Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and the Institute of Museum and Library Services 2009 large-scale study of people who use public library services

12. How Are You an Advocate? The Library matters because… Kids, after-school activities Jobs, workforce development, support startups Third place for adults People measure ROI differently Why does your library matter?

13. How Are You an Advocate? The Library matters because… 32% of U.S. population over 14 YOA visited the library in the past year 67% of internet users at public libraries received 1-on-1 help 63% helped others People measure value (ROI) differently

14. Why Does Your Library Matter? The Library matters because… 40% users got help with employment 37% focused on health needs 42% got homework help/educational needs 60% made social connections What is your elevator speech?

15. Is Your Library Mission-Critical? What is your City’s mission? “… vibrant neighborhoods,…strong business community,…beautiful green spaces.” What does your community value? Can you articulate your library’s mission?

16. Advocacy & Leadership Articulate the mission Believe in the cause Share the enthusiasm Demonstrate good judgment in determining when to take action

17. How to Ensure your Library Makes the List Build relationships Listen to what the community needs Respond Tie into the City’s mission Tell your story