How do get out the good word about your library? Here is the first part of a plan for a school library media center.

"How do you promote a special activity?" This is the challenge that many librarians face. You plan and plan for the event itself, but there is no point if students, parents, and staff know nothing of the event. How do you rise above the noise that fills work, school, friends, sports, dance class, TV, etc., etc.

A multi-pronged approach is generally best. Parents, grandparents, and other family members, are specifically included. These members of the school community often don't see the librarian as an integral part of the school experience. Many students and many parents could not tell you the name of the librarian. Familiarizing families with the school library is a goal every librarian should work toward.

Don't be afraid to offer "bribes" to bring families into the library. Free coffee and tea can be the key to opening the library door for parents. Make certain that you allow time to look over the library.

Build a PowerPoint presentation on all the library has to offer and play it on a large TV or computer monitor as families gather. My circulation screen is 21". I turn the monitor around and have the presetation playing on a continual loop.

In the next article, we will examine coordination and public relations.

Continuing the plan to promote your special library event.