Rakuten Overdrive offered to pay for an advertising campaign to help KCLS promote its digital collection. Rather than simply touting its own eBook collection, KCLS chose to share this unique funding opportunity with five other library systems. The innovation was an unprecedented, more expansive and inclusive promotional approach. By reaching out to the libraries of Seattle, Tacoma and Snohomish, Island (Sno-Isle), Pierce and Kitsap counties, far more patrons discovered local digital offerings and possibilities.

KCLS produced 15 and 30 second commercials to highlight eBook collections. The campaign, focusing on Comcast Cable channels for highest market penetration, ran February 19 through April 22, 2018. The 30 second commercials aired on CNN, ESPN, National Geographic, Food Network, MSNBC, Hallmark, HGTV, TLC, AMC and the History and Discovery channels. The 15 second commercial was downloaded on digital screens and devices. Additional social media promotions stimulated successful public engagement and heightened awareness of regional digital collections.

KCLS’ aim was increased awareness of digital collections offered by the region’s libraries. The 387 30 second commercials resulted in 3.7 million impressions. The 15 second ad yielded over 107,000 impressions (96 percent completed views). Additional social media campaigns drew thousands of page views and impressions. Sno-Isle’s Communications Director K. Harvey commented that the promotions also sent “a great message that we don’t compete and together provide a wonderful service and offerings to our communities.”