Presenter: Deborah Hakes. Presented at the Georgia Libraries Conference in Columbus, GA on 10/04/2018. For libraries to survive and thrive in a limited funding environment, we must tell stronger stories that focus on the impact we are having in people's lives. This session will help you identify ways your organization can identify the right stories to tell, how to reach your intended audience and drive them to take action, whether that be to get a library card, provide funding or attend programming.

1. Telling the right stories to drive
support
Georgia Libraries Conference | October 2018
Deborah Hakes | Director of Communications | Georgia Public Library Service

2. What we’ll cover
 Why storytelling is important
 How to identify stories for your organization
 How to reach and motivate your audience
 Questions

3. A story about growing community
Tower gardens in public libraries are engaging young and old, as the
initiative addresses local food insecurity and teach people how to
garden.
Photo copyright D Hakes/Georgia Public Library Service

4. A story about Stan
An innovative library program empowers homeless individuals to
improve their lives. Computer and resume workshops have reduced
barriers and helped people find jobs.
Through the program, Stan Jones has improved his health and
engaged in lifelong learning:
“I learned how to research credible resources on the internet. For
example, I applied for a medication discount card online, so now I
can afford medicine to address my health issues.”
Photo copyright D Hakes/Georgia Public Library Service

5. Elements of a story
 A real person, with details.
 A problem.
 Library intervention.
 A resolution.
 A fact/stat.
 A key general message.

6. Key messages
 Public libraries are meeting the changing needs of Georgians, helping them apply for jobs and
retirement benefits, get help with homework or discover the joy of reading.
 Four American Library Association messages
 Libraries transform lives.
 Libraries transform communities.
 Librarians are passionate advocates for lifelong learning.
 Libraries are a smart investment.

7. Finding the right story
 What are your key priority projects, programs or initiatives this year?
 What is the action you want someone to take?
 Who is your target audience?
 What is the channel to reach them?
 What does success look like?

8. Emotion in storytelling
 As a _________________, I feel ______________.

9. Building character
 Main character -
 Knowing the purpose of your story, why did you choose this person?
 Be able to describe your main character. Can you meet them and interview them? Appearance,
personality, emotions, etc. Details. What setback or transformation did your character go through related
to the topic?
 Supporting characters - library staff, character’s friends, family etc

10. Showing transformation
 What are the starting, mid-way and ending points of your story? What are the intended
emotions?
 Map out how the story will be told.
 Gather details.

11. Improving storytelling in your organization
 Can staff share stories about people they have come across – monthly meetings, etc?
 Surveys (example Summer Reading Program) with question if you can contact patron.
 Expand skills with professional development - photography, interview skills, writing
 Are there resources in organization to help? (a camera, photo editing software)
 Do you have an organized system to store collected assets and stories so staff can access? (on
your website, Google Drive)
 Do you track potential impact?
 Will require continual follow up and asks, as well as listening in meetings.

12. Any questions for me?