The document discusses strategies for building voter support for libraries. It advocates using a community organizing model to identify, activate, and mobilize supporters. Rather than focusing on traditional metrics like library cards or usage, it emphasizes developing relationships and social capital in the community. It also promotes nontraditional library services like patron-driven collections, community programs, and partnerships with other organizations to expand the library's impact and demonstrate its value.
17. Power Mapping
Power mapping is a
visual tool used by
social advocates to
identify the best
individual to target to
promote social change.
The role of relationships
and networks is very
important when
advocates seek change
in a social justice issue.
www.pcsweeney.com
In order for people to take part in your participatory library, they have to be on the last two rungs of this ladder
We can’t do it with our current model of librarianship
Social media,
Providing services within the library that people take with them- We are providing things to people
Community Outreach
Talking to people
We need to get something back from everyone
Identify, activate, and radicalize supporters
Today is the first day of your library campaign – Do the personal assesment
Don’t complain, don’t say negative things, smile, be friendly,
Sit up, don’t build barriers, act like you are supposed to be there. Sit at the table like you belong there
Communication is how much non-verbal - When you’re at the table, duplicate their posture and gestures a little bit and mention their name 2-3 times. Studies show that motions that slightly duplicate others will unconsciously draw them in and help bridge divides. Sit facing them and looking confident and direct
This is the point of all of this…. Social capital lets you have the resources and the knowledge about your community to spend it on getting them involved in order ot have patron and community driven collections
This all comes out of ALATT and my experiences with other librarians.