This spring, the State Library of Kansas will work with several Kansas librarians to present a new online program series called “The Library as Community Center.”
This series addresses several questions:
- How can a library become absolutely necessary to high quality of life in the community?
- How can a library develop an active, interactive, mutually rewarding relationship with the community?
- How can a library be regarded as an essential agency by the community leadership?
There are many topics that could address these concerns, but a long list was refined to four selected programs. There will be a longer article on each of these programs closer to its date. A link to join the session will be sent at that time. Registration is not required and all sessions will be archived.
The Conversation Business
Brenda Hough, Northeast System and Shannon Roy, State Library
Tuesday, March 13, 2:00 – 4:00
Brenda will be building on David Lankes’ ideas on “new librarianship.” He develops the concept that knowledge is created through conversation. Libraries are in the knowledge business therefore libraries are in the conversation business. “New librarians” approach all aspects of their work as facilitators of conversation. Librarians seek to enrich, capture, store and disseminate the conversations of their communities. Shannon will relate these ideas to the development of welcoming library environments.
Going Social to Get Local: Engaging Your Community via Social Media
Susan Brown and Rachel Smalter Hall, Lawrence Public Library
Wednesday, March 28, 10:00 – 12:00
The Lawrence librarians will build on the central idea that constant conversation and shared information need to take place between the library and the community. Both librarians have worked hard to build the social community that supports the Lawrence Public Library.
Engaging the Library in Community Planning
Eric Gustafson, Derby Public Library
Tuesday, May 8, 10:00 – 12:00
Eric will draw on experiences in both Hiawatha and Derby for a presentation on being involved with community planning. It not only makes the library more visible, but wins respect for the library as an important agency, vitally involved with community issues.
Collections and the Community
Marcia Allen, Manhattan Public Library and Diana Weaver, Basehor Community Library
Thursday, May 24, 10:00 – 12:00
Marcia will talk about interacting with the community while collections are being developed. Diana will talk about helping community residents become comfortable with ebooks and familiar with what they have to offer.
If you have any questions about this program series, please send email to Shannon.Roy@library.ks.gov
or call 785-296-2148.