Libraries are not only places to borrow books, but also venues to share your knowledge and passion with the community. As a motivational speaker, you can find speaking opportunities at libraries that can help you grow your audience, network, and credibility. Here are some tips on how to do that.
The first step is to find out which libraries in your area host events and programs that match your niche and expertise. You can visit their websites, social media pages, newsletters, or flyers to see what kind of topics they cover and who their target audience is. You can also contact the library staff or the event coordinator to ask about their upcoming schedule, their requirements, and their availability.
Also look at their website for upcoming events or calls for speaker submissions at your local public library. Often they plan themed events months out and if what you want to speak on aligns with their needs speaking to the library director is a great way to get on the schedule.
Once you have identified some potential libraries, you need to pitch your proposal to them. You should craft a clear and concise email that introduces yourself, explains your topic, and highlights your value proposition. You should also include your speaker bio, your website, your testimonials, and your fees (if any). Be polite, professional, and flexible, and follow up if you don't hear back within a week.
If your proposal is accepted, you should prepare your presentation well in advance. You should tailor your content and style to the library's audience, theme, and format. You should also check the technical details, such as the equipment, the internet connection, the sound system, and the lighting. You should rehearse your speech several times, and make sure you have a backup plan in case something goes wrong.
One thing i have found helpful is - do not rely on technology. You should be able to give your speech even when technology fails.
To attract more attendees and generate more buzz, you should promote your event on your own channels, such as your website, blog, social media, podcast, or newsletter. You should also collaborate with the library to spread the word through their platforms, such as their website, email list, flyers, posters, or announcements. You should create engaging and informative content that showcases your topic, your credentials, and your personality.
On the day of the event, you should arrive early, set up your equipment, and greet the library staff and the audience. You should deliver your speech with confidence, enthusiasm, and authenticity. You should engage with the audience, ask questions, tell stories, and use humor. You should also respect the time limit, and end with a clear and strong call to action.
After the event, you should follow up with the library staff and the audience. You should thank them for their time, feedback, and support. You should also ask for referrals, testimonials, and reviews. You should also follow through on your promises, such as sending additional resources, answering questions, or offering discounts. You should also keep in touch with them, and look for more opportunities to collaborate in the future.
In my experience, a video testimonial goes a long way, help the person help you, by asking guiding questions and then edit the video,
Speaking engagements at local public libraries are some of the most impactful things speakers can do because these are truly done for one's local community where one can have a huge centre of influence. I always make it a point to mention to my audience what they mean to me because we belong to the same local community, we use the same resources, our children go to same schools. The level of relatability is simply very high. When you mention this to the audience, you start from a place of trust and relationship, no better ice breaker than the one that shows that you know your audience, you get them. Be sure to communicate this to them at the onset.