Engagement: Outreach librarianship and connecting with your community

Abstract

Outreach librarians connect with a wide range of people. They serve a variety of people based on the environment, community and the population which their library seeks to serve. Understanding what outreach means is the first critical step in a successful library outreach program. All parties involved need to have a clear concept of what outreach means to their staff and institution, whether it is raising awareness of library services and resources, educational, or creating community. Successful outreach initiatives often include groups that would not or cannot come to the physical library for library services, reaching those in need at their off-site locations. This session will cover the various definitions of library outreach, both public and academic, how to develop goals around outreach programming and the types of library outreach (there are at least six) including non-traditional approaches to outreach. The session will also cover what goes into planning an outreach program and methods of assessment and if time permits, funding and connecting with community partners.