Partners for the Future: Public Libraries and Local - LibraryWorks.com

Success Strategies for Libraries Looking to
Partner with Local Governments
Reach out to the local
government(s) that the
library system serves to
support sustainability
action plans
Regardless of structure, libraries
and local governments are
connected. Being aware of the
local government’s highest
priorities and getting to know
key local government leaders
are the foundations for a
productive partnership. “Without
effective partnerships with
local government, libraries can
become invisible and stranded
community assets,” says Calgary
Public Library Chief Executive
Officer Gerry Meek.
It is also important to be familiar
with and connected to specific
local government sustainability
goals, targets, agreements,
vision statements, programs,
stakeholders, and advisory
groups. Familiarity with the
19 30
Urban Libraries Council
priorities and the players will
ensure that library programs and
services are in sync with local
government sustainability goals
and priorities.
Demonstrate how the
library can help achieve
local government priorities
If the mayor or county board
chairman has a special interest
in early childhood development,
show how the library’s literacy
programs address that priority.
If there is an emerging interest
in testing new environmental
technologies, offer the library
as the research center. “Insert
yourself,” says Nashville Public
Library Director Donna Nicely. “Any
of the local government’s big
strong goals are your goals. Tell the
elected leader, ‘I can do that.’”
Document success
Libraries are already
transforming their community
role and broadening their
impact in remarkable ways.
Provide regular information to
local government leaders and
stakeholders that shows how
the public library is supporting
sustainability priorities through
building economic vitality,
preserving natural resources,
and supporting social equity.
Library program summaries and
participation data will highlight
current successes and create new
opportunities for collaboration.
Become an advocate for
the cities and counties the
library serves
Actively supporting local
priorities and proactively
creating connections to those
priorities within libraries will
help the local government get
vital information out to the
public and raise the library’s
profile as a resource to the
local government.
Partners Partners for the for Future the Future