Project Compass: Libraries providing direction in tough times
We are excited to tell you about Project Compass, a timely opportunity for all state libraries in the country to work together to provide direction and resources for public libraries as they navigate these tough economic times. On September 10, 2009, IMLS announced a grant awarded to WebJunction and the State Library of North Carolina to support public libraries’ efforts to meet the urgent and growing demands of our communities as they struggle with the loss of jobs and the needs of the unemployed.
Tough times can generate opportunities for new solutions and state libraries have responded with a variety of strategies for their local libraries. Project Compass intends to build on these effective efforts and foster collaboration among all state libraries.
Goals of Project Compass
The key goals of the project are to:
§ Support state library agencies in maximizing the effectiveness of local libraries providing activities, services, and outreach to unemployed residents.
§ Foster successful, ongoing collaboration and knowledge exchange among state library agencies and cultivate strategic partnerships with other organizations that serve the unemployed.
§ Increase community awareness of library services and demonstrate to communities and key decision makers the critical role libraries serve during times of economic crisis.
Phases of the Project
§ A user needs assessment and snapshot of public library responses
WebJunction and the State Library of North Carolina will ask the state libraries to respond to a survey related to increased patron demands on libraries, the public libraries’ responses to those needs, and the state libraries’ support of the public libraries’ work.
§ 5 Regional summits across the country
In the early spring, we will offer a series of regional summits designed to build state library capacity for developing statewide partnerships and workforce development services. You will be invited to send two participants from your state library to one of these summit gatherings. Dates and details will be announced as they are confirmed; some support for travel costs may be available.
The power of the collaborative approach for state libraries goes beyond response to the current economic storm. As a unified force, state libraries can issue a strong message about the essential role of libraries as primary responders to community needs. Ultimately, Project Compass is an investment in future library services.
Watch for an email request in the next two weeks to complete the needs assessment survey. Betha Gutsche is the Project Coordinator for this program and is happy to answer any questions you may have at any time. You may reach her at gutscheb (at)oclc.org or 206.336.9203.
With kind regards,
Jennifer Pratt, Chief of Library Development, State Library of
Chrystie Hill, Community Services Director, WebJunction
