“Fake news” claims, legitimate or not, strike at the public’s confidence in media outlets. The Java with a Journalist program was designed to connect Kansas Citians with reporters who cover their community, engaging them in frank, casual conversation in a trusted location – the library. The library used the occasion to sign up participants for library cards, giving them access to information databases and other library offerings.

Library and Star staffers co-plan the series, and the library’s public affairs staff markets it through social media and weekly emails. The number of participating citizens at individual sessions is capped at 25 to keep conversations intimate and unintimidating. The program launched with three Star reporters and 19 residents/patrons discussing news and issues for approximately 90 minutes on April 28, a Saturday morning.

The conversation was wide-ranging. Participants’ feedback was extremely positive. Star reporters said they came away with two ideas for future stories. Additional Java with a Journalist sessions are planned for Summer and Fall 2018. The success stems, in no small part, from a strong ongoing relationship between the library’s media relations coordinator – a former local journalist – and the Star’s reporters and recognition that the library and newspaper share a goal of providing information.