If you haven’t seen or heard, OCLC has partnered with PLA, and the ALA Office for Library Advocacy, and recently released a report on library perceptions and support among US voters. It’s called From Awareness to Funding: Voter Perceptions and Support of Public Libraries in 2018.
This new report can be compared to a similar study done by OCLC in 2008 called From Awareness to Funding: A Study of Library Support in America. There is a free webinar, presented by WebJunction, which presents the new research findings with comparisons to the research done 10 years earlier. These findings can help shape our advocacy efforts. Hence the hashtag: #awareness2funding !
According to the new study, a majority of US voters value public libraries. That’s good news! However, the study also included some disheartening news, especially in the Youth Services world. Brace yourselves…
Fewer voters are likely to see the library as a resource for children. (Noooooooooooo!)
The report states,
“In 2008, 71% agreed that “the library is an excellent resource for kids to get help with their homework”; today, 51% agree. In 2008, 53% agreed that “the public library does an excellent job of helping prepare children for school,” compared to 44% today. And, while just 24% of 2008 voters felt that “libraries just aren’t as important in kids’ lives as they once were,” 36% believe this in 2018.” (Page 9 of Report)
Let this motivate all of us to step up our advocacy efforts. Spread the amazing impact of libraries as a resource for children and families!
How can we start changing these perceptions of voters immediately? Here are a few suggestions!
-Join a table or committee that your library hasn’t been involved with yet! For example, an early learning coalition or STEM committee. Advocate the library’s important role for children at these tables.
-Increase your visits to local schools, and make rich and supporting relationships with school district staff and teachers.
-Make relationships and partnerships with local businesses that also serve youth like transit bus systems, museums, and restaurants, etc.
You can view the full report, check out the infographic, or watch the webinar at oc.lc/awareness2018.
As always, check out Everyday Advocacy for resources to help start your advocacy adventures!
#awareness2funding #everydayadvocacy
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Karlyn Spevacek is a member of the ALSC Advocacy and Legislation Committee and is the District Youth Services Librarian for the Timberland Regional Library in Washington State.