What Funding Sources Want to Know about Your Library

At the 2006 Public Library Association Conference, Sandy Dixon, State Library, attended a Rural Sustainability pre-conference sponsored by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.

Part of the day was spend on discussing advocacy and included presentations from a mayor, county commissioner and foundation director about what resonates with them as far as libraries are concerned.

Things to keep in mind:

• It's all about relationships.  Build them.
• Perception is reality.  It's not how you see the library, but how they see it.
  
• They want to hear anecdotes - touch their heartstrings
• Let them know why you are important.  What are you doing for your community?
• Give them a compelling vision for how you make a difference.
• Explain your operating budget and describe what you do with the small amount of money you have.
• Credibility is essential.  Double check your figures for accuracy.  Do what you say you're going to do and don't exaggerate or make empty threats.  Example:  Don't say you're going to cut hours and then not do it.  Once credibility is gone, it's gone.
• Let them hear from members of the community, not just library employees and board members.
• Help them identify other funding sources.