BEYOND the USUAL PROSPECTS: BROADEN YOUR POOL OF PARTNERS AND NURTURE INNOVATIVE PARTNERSHIPS

• Published in: Public libraries 2021-05, Vol.60 (3), p.26-33
• Main Author: Linscott, Kristin
• Format: Magazinearticle
• Language: English
• Subjects: Academic libraries; Careers; Child care; Children & youth; Collaboration; Community colleges; Conferences; Continuing education; English as a second language; Families & family life; Food stamps; Higher education; Learning; Librarians; Library resources; Literacy; Nonprofit organizations; Nutrition; Piano; Public assistance programs; Small business; STEM education; Students; Technology education; Workforce
• ISSN: 0163-5506

Some benefits of collaboration include the following: * Extending the reach of the library finding new audiences and welcoming new library users. * Expanding the capacity of library staff to provide programs and services, and adding resources. * Enhancing the reputation of the library with heightened visibility among community leaders. * Engaging various segments of the population, including those unfamiliar with the library. * Exploring new opportunities, which promotes staff development and cultivates library advocates. * Partnerships help libraries to stay connected to their communities, and to strengthen their reach, resources, and reputation. When their Continuing Education department began a workforce skills "boot camp" to prepare individuals for employment in call center jobs, the college asked Piano Public Library staff to lead a financial education session. Service organizations such as Junior League, Rotary Clubs, American Association of University Women and Young Men's Service League are sources of volunteers and advocates; additionally, their members will also benefit from learning about library services including technology training family programs, small business tools, financial education programs, and author events. Programs funded by your state or county Health and Human Services departments offer information on Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) benefits as well as health care insurance options.