Webcast: The Everywhere Library: Strategies for Connecting with Busy Communities

To become ingrained in the daily fabric of the community, libraries today must reach out and be visible where patrons live, work and play. Join this one-hour, interactive webcast to learn about strategies and best practices for bringing the library to the community.

Panelists include:

Cathy Sanford, Deputy County Librarian for Support Services. Contra Costa County Library, Pleasant Hill, CA. In early 2008, Contra Costa County Library launched the Library-a-Go-Go remote check-out system to help busy commuters use library services. Cathy will provide background on this highly successful project, share community and staff response to Library-a-Go-Go, and talk about the future of outreach services in the Contra Costa community.

Kerry McGeath, City Librarian/Deputy Director Community Services. Southlake Public Library, Southlake, TX. Southlake Public Library established a virtual library program to connect employees of local businesses directly to library services. Kerry will share the details of this unique partnership program that provides 3,000 local employees with unique access to library materials and services.

Tracy Thomas, Systemwide Programs Coordinator. Louisville Free Public Library, Louisville, KY. In 2007, Louisville Free Public Library partnered with local schools to form Power Plus, an initiative to make it easier for urban students to travel the library and utilize library services. Tracy will talk about the proactive nature of Power Plus, and the advantages of working in community partnerships.

Betsy Kempf, Public Relations Coordinator. Boone County Public Library, Burlington, KY.  Boone County Public Library reached out to local businesses five years ago to launch the "Discounts with a library card" initiative. Betsy will discuss the successes and challenges of the program and walk you through how to create a similar program in your community.

Moderators: Dave Bendekovic, Vice President and Kathryn Miller, Director of Marketing, Polaris Library Systems, Syracuse, NY.