Why I Help Libraries?

Not everyone might understand why I am strongly motivated to help libraries succeed. Let me explain.

Some people are motivated by money, others by recognition. Some might by motivated to gain power and some motivated by love. Some seek freedom and security.

I am a passionate believer that School and Public libraries can be one of the institutions of a community that has enormous power to positively influence the lives of the people that they serve.

Libraries generally are: a gathering place and a safe space. They bring people together and they offer solitude to others. Together or as individuals, people visit libraries to share, to interact, to learn and to have fun.

Babies are entertained and develop early learning and literacy via storytime. Young readers develop vocabulary and master literacy skills when they are amazed at beginning fiction chapter books or then learn new ideas when they read about the things they are excited about.

Readers of all ages are captivated by the magic of good storytelling regardles of whether that is by a skilled fiction or nonfiction writer. They are captivated by enthralling characters, visit exotic places or learn new skills. All done via a story. That story could be delivered via a print book, a digital audio, a magazine/newspaper or a physical or downloaded video.

People of all ages come to the library for the news, information, skills development, internet access and technology training they need to keep up in a rapidly changing world. They need: health, family, home,financial, educational resources and of course pure enjoyment from all that libraries have to offer. Imagine the positive impact this can make in poor and struggling communities.

Libraries purchase, catalog, shelve and display multiple formats of content. They create and deliver all manner of programing that informs, inspires and entertains all age groups of their community. Librarians are the masters of these skills and I am happy to offer them great resources via my traditional publishing relationship.

Our world is changing at an ever faster pace. We have 24/7 cable tv news, unlimited internet content, access to thousands of radio and tv options. We have technology device and delivery platforms that change every 3-5 years or faster. There is so much content that it is hard to tell “real” from “fake news”. Now along comes the mobile revolution which has shifted the power of instant information and communication to our phones wherever we go. This year more than 50% of all email, social media and retail sales will be delivered using mobile devices – tablets and smart phones. That shift to mobile is accelerating each year.

Traditional library and business communication: word of mouth, weekly “what’s happening” space or ads in the local newspaper and monthly printed newsletters no longer keep up with this pace of change and our demand for instant access to everything via mobile platforms. Libraries struggle to get the word out effectively about all they have to offer

Libraries are working to keep pace, but many times it seems that the gap between new and existing keeps widening. Most libraries financially struggle with paying for buildings, staff, programming and content. And now comes all these new technology and communication needs. Most large library systems and well funded libraries are doing well. Small to medium sized rural or suburban libraries really work hard to keep up. It is not just the tools they need, it is the skill sets and time needed to keep pace in this new communication and marketing environment.

Libraries play a critical role in the quality of life in our communities. I intend to help them keep pace and meet the communication needs of their students, families and seniors.

I look forward to sharing with you all – Brad