Many in our communities are unaware of all the library has to offer. Service disruptions during the COVID-19 pandemic impacted library access and engagement efforts, creating an even greater need to build awareness. The library sought to address these challenges with an effective, efficient, and energizing plan for staff. Library On the Go combines marketing and outreach, realigns resources, jump-starts staff engagement and prioritizes connecting with residents where they are.

Library On the Go connects staff with residents in new ways, including presenting bilingual storytimes at apartment complexes, sharing technology resources at food distribution events and promoting summer reading at public housing developments. A new Community Engagement Coordinator collaborates with staff and partners. The van acts as a mobile billboard, and On the Go t-shirts and branded tents create visibility. Interactive activities prompt conversations, creating opportunities to listen and share about the Library.

• Increased awareness of an inclusive library
• Connected residents with barriers to library resources and services

During the summer of 2022:

• Visited 51 community events
• Connected 8,575 residents with services
• Created 100 new library cards
• 304% increase in event attendance
• 8% increase in e-newsletter subscriptions; 10.5% increase in opens; 83% increase in clicks

"This little thing made my day!" parent at a low-income housing visit

"I had never thought of the library like that before." firefighters at a parade