How can you market library services in the digital age?

1 Know your audience

Before you plan any marketing campaign, you need to know who you are trying to reach and what they need and want from your library. You can use various methods to gather data and insights, such as surveys, focus groups, interviews, analytics, and social media. You can also segment your audience into different groups based on their demographics, interests, behaviors, and preferences. This will help you tailor your messages and channels to suit each group.

2 Use storytelling

Storytelling is a powerful way to connect with your audience and showcase your library's impact and relevance. You can use stories to highlight your library's programs, services, collections, staff, and users. You can also use stories to demonstrate how your library supports the goals and values of your community. You can share your stories through various formats, such as videos, podcasts, blogs, newsletters, and social media posts.

3 Leverage social media

Social media is a vital tool for marketing library services in the digital age. You can use social media to communicate with your audience, share your stories, promote your events, solicit feedback, and build relationships. You can also use social media to collaborate with other libraries, organizations, and influencers in your field. However, you need to have a clear strategy and goals for your social media presence, and choose the platforms and content that suit your audience and brand.

4 Create a website

Your library's website is your online storefront and your main source of information for your audience. You need to make sure that your website is user-friendly, attractive, and functional. You need to optimize your website for search engines, mobile devices, and accessibility. You also need to update your website regularly with fresh and relevant content, such as news, events, blogs, and resources.

5 Try new formats

Marketing library services in the digital age requires creativity and innovation. You need to try new formats and channels to reach and engage your audience. For example, you can use webinars, podcasts, e-books, online courses, or gamification to deliver your library's content and services. You can also use email marketing, online advertising, or SMS marketing to reach your audience directly and personally.

6 Evaluate and improve

Marketing library services in the digital age is not a one-time activity. You need to monitor and measure the results and impact of your marketing efforts. You need to use various tools and metrics, such as analytics, surveys, feedback forms, and testimonials, to evaluate your performance and outcomes. You also need to use the data and insights you collect to improve your marketing strategies and tactics.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?