Toolkit

ead.” Require a contact name and e-mail. If you have the book already,
you can advise students/faculty you have it.
• Do you allow students/faculty to put a reserve on a book that is checked
out? Most circulation software allows you to do this. Accepting reserves
can turn casual users into ardent fans and increase circulation.
• Taking part in major school activities is a great way to increase awareness of
the school library program. For example, at homecoming or prom create a
display about the history of the school with prominent credit to the school
library.
• Volunteering provides an opportunity to demonstrate your commitment
to student learning and growth, while forging new relationships with
community members in the process. A successful volunteer project working
with that student, teacher, parent, or community member can turn that
positive collaborative experience into a word-of-mouth marketing and
advocacy for the school library.
Marketing Your Program Outside of Your School
• Before you begin any communications outside of your building, always
discuss your plans with your administrator. No administrator wants to be
blindsided. You and your principal are a team. Invite the principal’s input
and provide regular updates on the project.
• Share photos on your school library website and Facebook. Always check
with your school’s secretary to find out which students and parents have
given permission to publish students’ photos. Never publish online
photos of students with their names—even publishing first names can be
dangerous! Always check with your principal before posting anything.
• Learn about the community and create opportunities for its members to
use their expertise to build students’ knowledge on topics being researched
and studied.
• Every week send photos to the district—creative classroom projects,
special events, or students just using library resources. Remember, school
and district communications staff constantly need photos to update the
district webpage or slideshows. They want to show district parents and
perspective parents that your district does cool things for kids. Learn in
advance what file types and sizes are needed, as well as to whom pictures
and captions should be sent. Of course, always check with your principal
before sending anything.
• Make connections with education journalists for your local newspaper or
television station. Be sure to send notifications or flyers via e-mail about
events at your school, or work with your school district communications
staff to send a press release.
Communication 29