How do you improve your library partnerships?

1 Identify your needs and assets

Before you approach potential partners, you need to have a clear idea of what you want to achieve, what you can offer, and what you expect from the collaboration. This will help you communicate your value proposition and align your objectives with those of your partners. You can use a SWOT analysis (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats) to assess your needs and assets, and identify areas where you can benefit from external support or expertise.

2 Research and network

To find suitable partners, you need to do some research and networking. You can start by looking at your existing contacts, such as patrons, donors, volunteers, or local groups, and see if they have any connections or interests that match your goals. You can also use online platforms, such as social media, directories, or databases, to discover potential partners in your field or community. Additionally, you can attend events, such as conferences, workshops, or webinars, where you can meet and interact with other professionals and organizations.

3 Establish trust and communication

Once you have identified and contacted your potential partners, you need to establish trust and communication. This means being transparent, respectful, and responsive in your interactions, and showing genuine interest and enthusiasm for the partnership. You also need to communicate clearly and regularly, using the preferred channels and methods of your partners, and providing feedback and updates on the progress and outcomes of the partnership. Moreover, you need to listen and learn from your partners, and acknowledge their contributions and achievements.

4 Define roles and responsibilities

A successful partnership requires a clear definition of roles and responsibilities for each partner. This means setting realistic and measurable goals, timelines, and budgets, and assigning tasks and deliverables accordingly. You also need to agree on how you will monitor and evaluate the partnership, and how you will handle any issues or conflicts that may arise. Furthermore, you need to document and formalize your partnership agreement, using contracts, memoranda of understanding, or letters of intent, depending on the nature and scope of the collaboration.

5 Adapt and innovate

A partnership is not a static or fixed relationship, but a dynamic and evolving one. Therefore, you need to be flexible and adaptable to changing circumstances, needs, and opportunities. You also need to be open and willing to innovate and experiment with new ideas, approaches, or tools that can enhance your partnership and services. Additionally, you need to seek and incorporate feedback from your partners, patrons, and stakeholders, and use it to improve your partnership and outcomes.

6 Celebrate and sustain

A partnership is not only a means to an end, but also a valuable and rewarding experience. Therefore, you need to celebrate and sustain your partnership, by recognizing and appreciating your partners, sharing your successes and challenges, and showcasing your impact and value. You also need to maintain and nurture your partnership, by keeping in touch, providing ongoing support, and exploring new opportunities for collaboration. By doing so, you can build long-term and meaningful relationships that can benefit your library and community.

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?