Before each new year, we map out the general number of programs for kids, teens, adults, and families we can offer for the year. Our programming team starts selecting the specific program topics months before the programs are scheduled to take place. This may involve finding and contacting an expert to give a presentation, finding the volunteers to make a program possible, reading the selected book for a book club, or researching how to make a certain craft. The feedback from those who attend our programs often shape our choices.
Once we have the bones of a program figured out, we flesh out the details with a title and description, order any necessary supplies, and maybe do a test run. For a book club, we might order copies of the book for readers to keep. For a children’s program, we might prepare the craft supplies, make a sample of the craft, and practice reading the story aloud. For an escape room, we set it up and test it with a few of our colleagues.
Then, we focus on telling everyone in our service district what we offer. We print our Monthly Snapshot newsletter with two months worth of programs and events happening at the Library. We send our email newsletters. We hang signs and display program slides on the monitors in the Library. We post about programs here on the blog and on the Library’s Instagram and Facebook. We display the details on our huge electronic sign on our front lawn.
With each program, we work to uphold our mission of “fostering community by providing opportunities for creative learning and by connecting people with resources and services to enrich lives.” One part of those services is setting up spaces to connect patrons to each other. We love to see conversations spark and friendships blossom at our programs.
Never miss a chance to make some connections at a FREE library program by checking our Events Calendar, subscribing to our email newsletters, and visiting the Library!