The 10-Minute International Librarian #18: Think of a Powerful Advocacy Tool

Advocacy is a global priority for libraries, and will only become more important with hard financial times likely ahead.

When trying to change people’s minds, it can be powerful to go in with some sort of tool or support, that you can prepare beforehand.

This can help start conversations, or leave a favourable impression on someone you want to convince.

It can also save you time while increasing your impact.

So for our 18th 10-Minute International Librarian exercise, think of a powerful advocacy tool.

This could be a postcard, leaflet, poster, report, or other object that supports you in your work to build support for libraries. It can share data or stories, set out arguments or make suggestions.

Think about what could work best in your country and your circumstances, and what you have seen others do that worked.

What do people respond best to? What has the most reach and impact?

Share your favourite examples of library advocacy tools below!

Good luck!

 

This idea relates to the IFLA Strategy! 1.3 Show the power of libraries in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.

As we publish more ideas, you will be able to view these using the #10MinuteInternationalLibrarian tag on this blog, and of course on IFLA’s Ideas Store! Do also share your ideas in the comments box.

One thought on “The 10-Minute International Librarian #18: Think of a Powerful Advocacy Tool

  1. NS

    The most powerful advocacy tool I can think of is the library user, specifically the library champion. Whilst we can explain what we do and promote our services (theory) there’s nothing better than having a satisfied ‘customer’ do it from the heart, on your behalf (practical). Where we say ‘we *can* do this’ they say ‘the library *did* this for me’.

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