LIBRARIES
BUILD
BUSINESS
COMMUNICATIONS
TOOLKIT
CONTENTS
Introduction to the LBB Communications Toolkit 4
Toolkit Navigation Quiz 7
SECTION 1
Communicating with...
BUSINESS SUPPORT ORGANIZATIONS
10
12
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
SECTION 2
Communicating with...
SMALL BUSINESS OWNERS
20
22
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
Contents
LIBRARIES BUILD BUSINESS COMMUNICATIONS TOOLKIT / AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION
2
SECTION 3
Communicating with...
ELECTED OFFICIALS, FUNDERS,
AND COMMUNITY DECISION MAKERS
30
32
32
33
34
35
36
37
38
39
40
SECTION 4
Communicating with...
LIBRARY STAFF
42
43
44
Sample Volunteer Job Description 45
46
47
Acknowledgments and More Information 48
Contents
LIBRARIES BUILD BUSINESS COMMUNICATIONS TOOLKIT / AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION
3
INTRODUCTION
TO THE
LIBRARIES
BUILD BUSINESS
COMMUNICATIONS
TOOLKIT
All libraries, no matter their size or budget, can support aspiring
and existing small business owners and entrepreneurs. Public
libraries have a long history of fostering equitable economic
development, small businesses, and entrepreneurship in their
community.
They excel at addressing many of the unseen barriers to economic advancement, even though
to providing programs and resources on business-related topics, libraries build digital skills; offer
literacy, ESL, and GED classes; provide internet and technology access; support Green Card and
citizenship application processes; connect people with affordable health care; offer early education
programs; and provide youth of all economic backgrounds the opportunity to engage with STEAM
The library is an important stakeholder in business development, but not everyone knows what
to outreach you can use to connect with new partners, community leaders, funders, and program
n
Educate the business community and public about library business services
n
Change or expand public perceptions of what the library has to offer businesses
n
Improve
of library size or budget
Introduction
LIBRARIES BUILD BUSINESS COMMUNICATIONS TOOLKIT / AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION
4
The St. Louis County Library in Missouri created the
Small Business Value Calculator in 2018 in order to
put a monetary value on the services they provide.
To build the calculator, they listed all the small business
services and resources they offer at the library and
Resources may include: marketing, demographic,
industry, and consumer research; computers and
using everything the library offers just once in a year and determined that the
catches the attention of business owners, community partners, and decision
makers and helps to illustrate the great work the library is doing on small
The toolkit can help you tailor how you talk about your goals, resources,
stories and resources from within your own programs, or borrow some
from the Libraries Build Business Playbook or the Libraries Build
Business Initiative Highlights Report
the great work you are already doing in your community for four key
audiences:
n
Aspiring and existing small business owners/entrepreneurs (your target audience for your
programs/services)
n
n
groups
n
Library Administration: the library board, executive staff and leadership, friends groups, and
other departments
Libraries Build
Business
answer questions, engage in research, pilot projects, develop resources, and share these learnings
FEBRUARY 2022
LIBRARIES
BUILD
BUSINESS
PLAYBOOK
Introduction
LIBRARIES BUILD BUSINESS COMMUNICATIONS TOOLKIT / AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION
5
owners and entrepreneurs across the United States, serving a range of entrepreneurs with a focus
on BIPOC and marginalized groups, including individuals re-entering the workforce from jail or
prison, primarily Spanish-speaking sidewalk vendors, rural entrepreneurs, tribal members, and
n
The Libraries Build Business Initiative Highlights Report highlights the key learnings
n
The Libraries Build Business Playbook is a resource collaboratively developed by LBB
cohort members to share practical resources and advice, promising strategies and models,
and inspiration for programming and services for any library, no matter their size or budget,
prioritize equity, diversity, and inclusion; and accessible suggestions for
n
Libraries that Build Business: Advancing Small Business and
Entrepreneurship in Public Libraries, edited by Megan Janicki (ALA
what libraries of all sizes and types around the country are doing, as
well as tips for how you might adapt some of these ideas to your own
n
Libraries Build Business Evaluation Resource Guide and Case Study are easy tools to walk
Project Outcome, and
Libraries Build Business continues today with a peer coaching
most up to date information on Libraries Build Business, visit the
website at ala.org/advocacy/workforce/grant
you engage with community stakeholders and let your small business and economic development
Introduction
LIBRARIES BUILD BUSINESS COMMUNICATIONS TOOLKIT / AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION
6
BUILD
BUSINESS
Advancing Small Business and
Entrepreneurship in Public Libraries
ALA PUBLIC POLICY AND ADVOCACY OFFICE
EDITED BY MEGAN JANICKI
LIBRARIES THAT
I’m looking at this toolkit because…
Ü
Then you might want to start with…
I want to broaden the community’s
perception of the library.
The sections you might want to look at
first are Elected Ocials, Funders, and
Community Leaders and Business Support
Organizations. Then look at Library Sta.
I want to increase usage of my library’s
small resources or services.
Start with the Small Business Owners
and Business Support Organizations
sections, then Library Sta.
I want to learn more about what small
business owners in my community need.
Start with the Small Business Owners section,
then look at Business Support Organizations.
I want to encourage social,
political, or funding support.
Jump to Elected Ocials, Funders,
and Community Leaders and
Business Support Organizations.
I want to find community partners
for my programs or services.
Start with Business Support Organizations,
then consider Small Business Owners.
An event I’m trying to prepare for is…
Ü
Then you might want to start with…
A presentation to business owners, like a
Chamber of Commerce lunch or meeting.
Small Business Owners
A presentation to other community
stakeholders, like a community service group.
Business Support Organizations or Elected
Ocials, Funders, and Community Leaders
(depending on the composition of the group)
A round table or coalition meeting, where
I may share information informally.
Business Support Organizations or Elected
Ocials, Funders, and Community Leaders
TOOLKIT
NAVIGATION
QUIZ
Toolkit Navigation Quiz
LIBRARIES BUILD BUSINESS COMMUNICATIONS TOOLKIT / AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION
7
My level of comfort talking about the
library’s business resources is…
Ü
Then you might want to use
this toolkit because…
LOW
I don’t have a lot of experience with
this or I’m not sure how to put the
library’s value into words.
This toolkit is for you! By reading the section
introductions, you can use it to learn about
the dierent audiences you might encounter
and how you might want to work with them.
Then the materials in each section can give
you an idea of where and how to start.
MEDIUM
I have some experience promoting the library’s
business resource, but I’m open to learning
new, eective ways to get the word out.
This toolkit is for you! The materials in this
toolkit include compelling talking points
and stories based on learning from a recent,
large-scale national initiative. It’s a simple way
to keep your communications up to date.
HIGH
I’m the face of small business services for my
library. But I’m really busy, so could you make
me a presentation or handout to save me time?
This toolkit is for you! With easy-to-adapt
templates for presentations, handouts, emails,
and more, this toolkit can save you time so
you can focus on making connections.
An event I’m trying to prepare for is…
Ü
Then you might want to start with…
A meeting with a potential partner
Business Support Organizations
A meeting with a small business owner
Small Business Owners
No event—I’m just trying to generally
increase awareness of the library’s
economic value and business resources.
Library Sta
All the pieces in this Toolkit
are free downloads from the
LIBRARIES BUILD BUSINESS website:
ala.org/advocacy/workforce/grant
Toolkit Navigation Quiz
LIBRARIES BUILD BUSINESS COMMUNICATIONS TOOLKIT / AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION
8
1
BUSINESS
SUPPORT
ORGANIZATIONS
It is also amazing how it brings the small
business community together in a way that builds an
—Tina Ward, Co-Owner, Fades Barbershop
Round Rock Public Library
Round Rock, TX
9
Communicating with...
BUSINESS
SUPPORT
ORGANIZATIONS
Business support organizations (sometimes called entrepreneur
support organizations, or ESOs) refer to formal groups or
institutions that provide education or support to current or
aspiring small business owners.
These types of organizations can vary widely in size and focus, ranging from large, established
Examples of Business Support Organizations are:
n
Governmental:
(OIED), city or county economic development departments
n
Organizational or Commercial: Chambers of Commerce, Downtown or Main Street
Associations, banks or credit unions with small business lending programs, coworking spaces,
n
Educational: Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs), local universities or community
colleges with a business program, instructors in digital or job skills training programs such as
Goodwill
n
Cultural:
a particular demographic, such as immigrants or refugees, women, youth, veterans, BIPOC
n
Social: Conveners of social gatherings for current or aspiring small business owners, such as
Section 1: Business Support Organizations
LIBRARIES BUILD BUSINESS COMMUNICATIONS TOOLKIT / AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION
10
Despite their differences, business support organizations share some common goals and
have subject matter expertise in technical business topics, awareness of some of the goals and needs
of the small business community, and relationships with small business owners who may not be
awareness of their programs or services, especially among populations they are not effectively
As a result of these attributes and goals, libraries may want to pursue one or more of the following
n
Education. Libraries should make business support organizations aware of their services,
n
Referrals.
support organizations have limited resources; unlike the library, they tend to have a limited
support they do not provide in-house, that are outside their area of expertise, or for ongoing
patron who is looking for business advice, or is seeking access to a program like a business
n
Potential partnerships. Business support organizations may make good partners for programs
individual mentors by partnering with SCORE, business-related legal information by partnering
can be fruitful when their subject matter expertise and existing audience may allow the library
The key message for libraries to communicate to this audience is that the library
Section 1: Business Support Organizations
LIBRARIES BUILD BUSINESS COMMUNICATIONS TOOLKIT / AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION
11
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15 Minute Presentation
Template: “[Your Library]
Builds Business”
FOR BUSINESS SUPPORT ORGANIZATIONS
Customizable PowerPoint template DOWNLOAD .PPTX
points, graphics, and slide masters containing design elements and tips for placing your logo and
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[Your Name Here] Library
Note: This presentation will look best if you install the
Figtree
font from Google Fonts.
See the font instructions in the LBB Toolkit materials. All the icons and backgrounds in this template are removable.
Place your library’s logo in the
bottom left corner here.
A transparent logo will work best, or
you can place it in a box. You can also
add your name to the first Slide Master
footer (View>Slide Master).
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Section 1: Business Support Organizations
LIBRARIES BUILD BUSINESS COMMUNICATIONS TOOLKIT / AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION
12
PowerPoint fonts and theme installation
instructional PDF with links DOWNLOAD .PDF
This instructional PDF lists and links to the free fonts used in the LBB visual suite, and explains how
PPT FONTS AND THEME
For the LBB PowerPoints to display properly, you will need to install fonts and a PPT Theme.
The LBB Theme.thmx
computer, and from within PowerPoint, go to View > Slide Master > Themes >
Browse for Themes
Display (headings) font:
Figtree
The Figtree font family (multiple light to bold options)
Google Fonts at fonts.google.com/download?family=Figtree
Body text font:
Cambria
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Among survey respondents in a national Libraries Build Business
initiative from the American Library Association:
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identified as BIPOC
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Section 1: Business Support Organizations
LIBRARIES BUILD BUSINESS COMMUNICATIONS TOOLKIT / AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION
13
Talking Points PDF DOWNLOAD 7-PAGE .PDF
is intended for potential partner organizations that support small business (but where the audience
is not primarily business owners—see Section 2: Small Business Owners
LBB: 15-MINUTE BUSINESS SUPPORT ORGANIZATIONS
PRESENTATION TALKING POINTS
/ 2
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CASE STUDY
Slide 2:
On this slide, you want to tell a story that frames how one entrepreneur used library resources to help
their business succeed. This story is an example from the Ferguson Municipal Public Library in ALA’s Libraries
Build Business Cohort. If you have a local example you can use, replace this slide with their story.
First, I’d like to tell you about Freddie Lee. Freddie had a great product—a BBQ sauce their friends and
family had loved for years. But once he started his company, he found he needed some help to get it into
the hands of buyers. He went to the library, where a librarian helped him get on a computer, build his
digital skills, and get started with social media marketing. The librarian connected him with a wealth of
information to help him launch his business, and maybe more importantly, with connections to people
who could help him, including a mentor. Freddie Lee’s American Gourmet Sauce is now made in the shared
commercial kitchen of a business incubator and is available in 1500+ grocery stores across the United
States.
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• Half of all US libraries provide free services to entrepreneurs
to start and grow their business
• Classes and training, business data, space and tech,
connections to experts
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.
Slide 3: You can already start to see from [Freddie’s] story how library resources can help one small
business and imagine how it might help others. But now I want you to think bigger, about how through the
kinds of services we offered to Freddie, your library is making the whole local economy thrive.
LBB: 15-MINUTE BUSINESS SUPPORT ORGANIZATIONS
PRESENTATION TALKING POINTS
/ 1
These talking points correspond to the PowerPoint slides called 15 minute Business Support Orgs
presentation.pptx
included in this Toolkit.
[Your Name Here] Library
Slide 1:[name][library]
Libraries
Build
Business
15-Minute Small Business
Support Organizations
Presentation Talking Points
Section 1: Business Support Organizations
LIBRARIES BUILD BUSINESS COMMUNICATIONS TOOLKIT / AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION
14
Email Template for
Introducing Yourself
and the Library
Editable suggested text and example DOWNLOAD 2-PAGE .DOCX
Email Introduction Template for a
Business Support Organization
___________________________________________________________________
Subject Line: Request for a Meeting
Dear [Name]:
Hello! I’m [name] from [library]. I’m reaching out to you because of the important role
[organization] plays in our small business community. [If possible, add a sentence here about
your connection to them or a specific reason their organization is important.] I’d like to learn
more about your work and your goals. The library is increasing its focus on an equitable local
economy, and I would love to understand how we can best support you. You may be surprised
to find out how much the library has to offer small businesses – all for free.
Would you have some time to [chat with me / meet me for coffee / have a Zoom call] for half
an hour in the next couple of weeks? I’m happy to meet in person or virtually.
I’m looking forward to learning more about how we might support our small businesses
together.
Thank you for your time,
Name
Library
Contact Information
EXAMPLE
An introductory email to Susan Smith,
Executive Director of the local Chamber of Commerce
________________________________________________________________ ___
Subject Line: Request for a Meeting
Dear Susan,
Hello! I’m Audrey from Town Public Library. I’m reaching out to you because of the important
role the Chamber of Commerce plays in our small business community. We met at last month’s
Chamber mixer event, and I was so impressed by all you’re doing to revitalize Main Street. I’d
like to learn more about your work and your goals. The library is increasing its focus on an
equitable local economy, and I would love to understand how we can best support you. You
may be surprised to find out how much the library has to offer our Main Street small businesses
– all for free.
Would you have half an hour in the next couple of weeks for me to take you out for a coffee?
(Or I’m happy to meet virtually, if that’s more convenient for you.)
I’m looking forward to learning more about how we might support our small businesses
together.
Thank you for your time,
Audrey Barbakoff
Town Public Library
555-555-5555 ext. 555
Section 1: Business Support Organizations
LIBRARIES BUILD BUSINESS COMMUNICATIONS TOOLKIT / AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION
15
Bookmark: Library
Business Resources
PDF template for 6x2 bookmarks DOWNLOAD 3-PAGE .PDF
This bookmark template comes set up with 4-per-page and ready to print and trim yourself, with
customizable areas to enter your own list of resources or programs your library has available to
YOUR
LIBRARY
BUILDS
BUSINESS
Check Out
Our Upcoming
Programs
Month Date
Your Library’s
Program Title
Goes Here
Month Date
Your Library’s
Program Title
Goes Here
Month Date
Your Library’s
Program Title
Goes Here
[QR code to your
website listing
business services]
Your Library Name
and/or Logo Here
YOUR
LIBRARY
BUILDS
BUSINESS
Check Out
Our Upcoming
Programs
Month Date
Your Library’s
Program Title
Goes Here
Month Date
Your Library’s
Program Title
Goes Here
Month Date
Your Library’s
Program Title
Goes Here
[QR code to your
website listing
business services]
Your Library Name
and/or Logo Here
Bookmark: Library
Business Resources
PDF template for 6"x2" bookmarks
This bookmark template comes set up as 4-per-page and ready to print and trim yourself, with
customizable areas to enter your own list of resources or programs your library has available to
help business support organizations. The back side at right is just a sample. We recommend using
the Figtree Google font, and the colors listed below.
8cc63e 00adef 152564
Section 1: Business Support Organizations
LIBRARIES BUILD BUSINESS COMMUNICATIONS TOOLKIT / AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION
16
Flyer Template:
Partner with the Library
PDF template for 8.5x11 flyer DOWNLOAD .PDF
Figtree
Partnering with the library opens a universe of free resources
and support for you and your clients. Expand your reach, enrich
your services, and get connected with the community today.
Ready to explore the possibilities?
Contact:
Your Name Here
Your Library Name Goes Here
Email address
Phone number
Your Library Name Can Go Here
The CASH Campaign of Maryland has worked in partnership with the Baltimore County Public
Library throughout the years on several programs. Together, the free programs and services
provided in collaboration are
highly effective at reaching our shared goal of
supporting the economic advancement
and financial capability of Marylanders.
—Francesca Jean-Baptiste, Director of Tax Partnerships, CASH Campaign of Maryland
SUPPORT LOCAL
SMALL BUSINESS!
BENEFITS TO YOUR CLIENTS:
n
Premium business intelligence, market research,
financial benchmarks, and the latest business
news and publications. [Note: adjust list to
reflect your library’s databases and subscriptions]
n
Custom research and research training from a
library expert.
n
On-demand training on hot topics like
technology, business management, and
language learning. [Note: adjust list to reflect
your library’s databases and subscriptions.]
n
Holistic, sustained support for a variety of
needs small business owners face but your
organization may not cover, like personal
finance, digital literacy, and work-life balance.
BENEFITS TO YOU:
n
Reach a wider, more diverse community
of small business owners and
entrepreneurs.
n
Book meeting and event space in a
convenient, easily accessible location.
n
Increase referrals to your services.
n
Stay up to date with resources that can
help you and your clients succeed.
n
Discover and connect with other
local organizations supporting small
businesses.
“
”
PARTNER WITH
Section 1: Business Support Organizations
LIBRARIES BUILD BUSINESS COMMUNICATIONS TOOLKIT / AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION
17
TIPS FOR CONNECTING WITH LOCAL
SMALL BUSINESS SUPPORT ORGANIZATIONS (SBSOs)
/ 2
What are you asking for?
The second part of your pitch should be about them. Plan ahead to
(Take members on a tour of your workspaces before or after the meeting
advertise or otherwise share about their activities.
Keep up the positive pressure!
n
What are the gaps I want to close in my library’s small business services? What resources does this
n
n
n
reason) to increase their enthusiasm for a library partner?
Tips for Connecting
with Business Support
Organizations
PDF tip sheet DOWNLOAD 2-PAGE .PDF
TIPS FOR CONNECTING WITH LOCAL
SMALL BUSINESS SUPPORT ORGANIZATIONS (SBSOs)
/ 1
Libraries
Build
Business
TIPS FOR CONNECTING with Local
Small Business Support Organizations (SBSOs)
Find out who/what’s in your area.
What have they done before meeting you?
constituent members to have premises on the “main street” of your community. Find out which small
What do you bring to the table?
As your end goal is to establish a lasting working relationship with this
this toolkit’s
Asset Mapping Worksheet for this. What is your
workspace like? What tools do you offer to both your general patrons
and your aspiring entrepreneurs? What are the existing strengths of
to explain what your library currently offers current and future small
Talking Points for Small Business Organizations.)
Section 1: Business Support Organizations
LIBRARIES BUILD BUSINESS COMMUNICATIONS TOOLKIT / AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION
18
2
SMALL
BUSINESS
OWNERS
“There is so much information you need to organize to start
our plans and dreams and to make them functional [at the
developed a plan and broke down the steps to achieve what
A workshop series like this, with your
peers to bounce ideas off of, mentors to guide you, and
speakers to inspire you, is a great way to begin. Libraries
are the perfect place to have a program like this.”
—Melinda Kelsey, Proprietor, Kitten Around Cat Boarding
Macedon Public Library
Macedon, NY
19
Communicating with...
SMALL
BUSINESS
OWNERS
Small business owners and entrepreneurs are those who own, run,
or are considering starting a small business in your community.
They may be long-time owners, new founders, or people considering whether or not their
the community, or they may be less visible in home-based businesses or working remotely on
The library can communicate its value to those with any level of experience, industry, or type of
women, and entrepreneurs from other marginalized groups, you may also choose to focus on
Because business owners and entrepreneurs are diverse, the library may want to use multiple
Chambers of Commerce or Downtown Associations, which may be interested in a presentation from
As many business owners or potential entrepreneurs are not connected to groups, libraries may
business owners may be using social media to market their own businesses, social posts and events
look up and reach out to new, home-based, or minority-owned businesses in their community that
Section 2: Small Business Owners
LIBRARIES BUILD BUSINESS COMMUNICATIONS TOOLKIT / AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION
20
Entrepreneurs or business owners may already come to the library for other reasons, like bringing
children to story time or checking out books for pleasure reading, but be entirely unaware that the
n
Program attendance or resource use. Individual small business owners or entrepreneurs are
This can be especially important because many potential patrons may not associate the library
Shifting their perspective to see the library as a business resource is as important as letting
n
Input or feedback. The library may want to get input from small business owners about their
Input from BIPOC and underserved entrepreneurs may be particularly valuable in creating
n
Partnership. In some cases, libraries may partner with established businesses to offer
of local Latinx entrepreneurs sharing their success stories and tips in Spanish, or a group of new
offer as partners - subject matter expertise in the area of their business as well as in business
itself, deep knowledge of local resources and opportunities, a model of attainable success,
usually possible to partner with no ethical, legal, or policy issues, as long as certain basic
established for what is and is not permissible around selling, promoting their businesses, or
Overall, to communicate with busy business owners, libraries should try to meet them at their point
The key message for libraries to communicate to this audience
Section 2: Small Business Owners
LIBRARIES BUILD BUSINESS COMMUNICATIONS TOOLKIT / AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION
21
15 Minute Presentation
Template: “This
Presentation Could
Save You $6000”
Customizable PowerPoint template DOWNLOAD .PPTX
points, graphics, and slide masters containing design elements and tips for placing your logo and
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Section 2: Small Business Owners
LIBRARIES BUILD BUSINESS COMMUNICATIONS TOOLKIT / AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION
22
PowerPoint fonts and theme installation
instructional PDF with links DOWNLOAD .PDF
This instructional PDF lists and links to the free fonts used in the LBB visual suite, and explains how
PPT FONTS AND THEME
For the LBB PowerPoints to display properly, you will need to install fonts and a PPT Theme.
The LBB Theme.thmx
computer, and from within PowerPoint, go to View > Slide Master > Themes >
Browse for Themes
Display (headings) font:
Figtree
The Figtree font family (multiple light to bold options)
Google Fonts at fonts.google.com/download?family=Figtree
Body text font:
Cambria
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Section 2: Small Business Owners
LIBRARIES BUILD BUSINESS COMMUNICATIONS TOOLKIT / AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION
23
Talking Points PDF DOWNLOAD 6-PAGE .PDF
this presentation if asked to speak to a group of small business owners, such as at a Chamber of
Commerce luncheon or after-hours, Downtown Association mixer, municipal awards
LBB: 15-MINUTE SMALL BUSINESS OWNER
PRESENTATION TALKING POINTS
/ 2
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CASE STUDY
Slide 2:
On this slide, you want to tell a story that frames how one entrepreneur used library resources to help
their business succeed. This story is an example from the Ferguson Municipal Public Library in ALA’s Libraries
Build Business Cohort. If you have a local example you can use, replace this slide with their story.
First, I’d like to tell you about Freddie Lee. Freddie had a great product—a BBQ sauce their friends and family
had loved for years. But once he started his company, he found he needed some help to get it into the hands of
buyers. He went to the library, where a librarian helped him get on a computer, build his digital skills, and get
started with social media marketing. The librarian connected him with a wealth of information to help him
launch his business, and maybe more importantly, with connections to people who could help him, including
a mentor. Freddie Lee’s American Gourmet Sauce is now made in the shared commercial kitchen of a business
incubator and is available in 1500+ grocery stores across the United States.
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Slide 3:
I love this story because it shows you several of the different ways that libraries can help
businesses thrive. Let’s look at a few.
n
Individualized expert assistance. A librarian talked with Freddie, found out exactly what he needed,
LBB: 15-MINUTE SMALL BUSINESS OWNER
PRESENTATION TALKING POINTS
/ 1
These talking points correspond to the PowerPoint slides called 15 minute Small Business Owner
presentation.pptx
included in this Toolkit.
You might use this presentation if asked to speak to a group of small business owners, such as at a Chamber
of Commerce luncheon or after-hours, Downtown Association mixer, municipal awards presentation, etc.
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Your Name
Slide 1: Hi, I’m [name] from [library]. Today, I’m going to share with you a brief, 15-minute preview of what
the library can do to save your small business time and money. Are you surprised, or even a little skeptical?
If you think of the library as mostly about books and kids, you’re missing out on so much of what we can
do for you. Libraries can get you access to valuable information, resources, and connections to help your
business thrive at any stage.
Libraries
Build
Business
15-Minute Small Business
Owner / Entrepreneur
Presentation Talking Points
“THIS PRESENTATION COULD SAVE YOU $6,000”
Section 2: Small Business Owners
LIBRARIES BUILD BUSINESS COMMUNICATIONS TOOLKIT / AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION
24
Email Template for
“Cold Calling”
Editable suggested text and example DOWNLOAD 2-PAGE .DOCX
Email Introduction Template
for a Small Business Owner
___________________________________________________________________
Subject Line: How can the library support you?
Dear [Name]:
Hello! I’m [name] from [library]. I’m reaching out to you because you’re an important leader in
our local small business community. [If possible, add a sentence here about your connection to
them or a specific reason their organization is important.] I’d like to learn more about your
business and your goals. The library is increasing its focus on serving small businesses, and I
would love to understand how we can best support you and businesses like yours. You may be
surprised to find out how much the library has to offer small businesses to save you time and
money – all for free.
Would you have some time to [chat with me / meet me for coffee / have a Zoom call] for half
an hour in the next couple of weeks? I’m happy to come to you, in person or virtually. I know
you’re busy, and I appreciate any time you can share.
I’m looking forward to learning more about how the library can best support your business.
Thank you for your time,
Name
Library
Contact Information
EXAMPLE
An introductory email to Susan Smith,
Bakery Owner
___________________________________________________________________
Subject Line: How can the library support you?
Dear Susan,
Hello! I’m Audrey from Town Public Library. I’m reaching out to you because you’re an
important leader in our local small business community. I heard you speak at the last Town
Council meeting about the parking issues on Main Street, and you were inspiring. Plus, I love
your croissants!
I’d like to learn more about your business and your goals. The library is increasing its focus on
serving small businesses, and I would love to understand how we can best support you and
businesses like yours. You may be surprised to find out how much the library has to offer small
businesses to save you time and money – all for free.
Would you have some time for me to drop by your bakery for half an hour in the next couple of
weeks? I know you’re busy, and I appreciate any time you can share.
I’m looking forward to learning more about how the library can best support your business.
Thank you for your time,
Audrey Barbakoff
Town Public Library
555-555-5555 ext. 555
Section 2: Small Business Owners
LIBRARIES BUILD BUSINESS COMMUNICATIONS TOOLKIT / AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION
25
SOCIAL MEDIA POST EXAMPLES
FOR A SMALL BUSINESS/ENTREPRENEUR AUDIENCE
/ 2
FOR COURSES/LECTURES/SEMINARS
FOR COUNSELING
ex: SCORE mentor, Entrepreneur-in-Residence
FOR NETWORKING/MENTORING OPPORTUNITIES
FOR CO-WORKSPACE USERS
Also, an opportunity to shout-out a startup—ask permission from
them first, especially if taking pictures.
YourLibrary
@your_library • 1 hr
...
Looking to learn how to start a
business? The [Public Library] is
holding its annual [Entrepreneur
Workshop Series]. Register now at:
[registration URL]
In lieu of “Looking to start a business”,
this example can be used to advertise
other, more specific types of business and
skills courses, such as
“Looking for new resume skills?” or
“Looking for tips to secure
small business loans?”
YourLibrary
@your_library • 1 hr
...
Looking for tax and accounting
support for your small business?
The [insert Public Library] has
invited [@EiRTwitterHandle/their
name] to conduct a six-week course
in navigating business and self-
employment tax law, and to hold
weekly accounting consultation
sessions!
YourLibrary
@your_library • 1 hr
...
Looking to grow your business? [Every
week on Wednesdays and Thursdays],
[Entrepreneur-in-Residence/SCORE
Mentor] [@ConsultantName] will be
holding oce hours from [10 am to 3
pm] to assist business owners. Bring
your ideas to the library!
YourLibrary
@your_library • 1 hr
...
The [Community] Public Library is
holding a local business networking
event. If you’re looking to meet and
learn from current business owners,
register here: [event URL]
YourLibrary
@your_library • 1 hr
...
The operators of [@NewSmall
Business] are using our [conference
rooms] to [meet with creditors,
conduct market research, and look for
their new venue!]
Sample Social
Media Posts
Suggested text/images and examples DOWNLOAD 2-PAGE .PDF
SOCIAL MEDIA POST EXAMPLES
FOR A SMALL BUSINESS/ENTREPRENEUR AUDIENCE
/ 1
TIP REMEMBER TO TAG
YOUR BUSINESS PARTNERS
For example, use a partner’s Twitter handle if
posting via Twitter or use the “Tag People” function
to connect them with your Instagram post.
Libraries
Build
Business
Social Media Post Examples
FOR A SMALL BUSINESS/ENTREPRENEUR AUDIENCE
GENERAL/ANNOUNCING NEW PROGRAM
YourLibrary @your_library • 1 hr ...
The [Local Public Library] is proud
to announce the [Small Biz Support
Wing]. Work with us for [small
business counseling, access to online
and in-person workshops, region-
based market research, and printing,
audio-video and workspace needs!]
YourLibrary @your_library • 1 hr ...
[Our library] oers free printing,
co-working spaces, and audio/
video equipment for aspiring
entrepreneurs. We can provide
industry-specific legal advice,
market research, and mentor pairing!
FOR RESOURCE ADVERTISEMENT
TIP USE HASHTAGS
Use the hashtag #librariesbuildbusiness—
or make your own based on
your library’s program if you like.
#
Section 2: Small Business Owners
LIBRARIES BUILD BUSINESS COMMUNICATIONS TOOLKIT / AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION
26
Newsletter Blurb
or Blog Post
Suggested text and prompts DOWNLOAD .DOCX
Newsletter Blurb or
Blog Post Template
Promoting a New Business Program or Service
at Your Library
___________________________________________________________________
We are excited to announce our new Name of your library’s new
business program/service at Library Name!
[Describe the program/service in 1-2 paragraphs: What is it? Who is it meant for? Why is it
happening? Where/when can the program/service be utilized, attended, or found? Include a
link to the program/service’s webpage.]
[Insert quote(s) from your business librarian/relevant staff member/community member,
highlighting why they’re excited about the new program/service and the benefits it will bring to
your community.]
[End with the quote(s), or close with a brief reminder of a related library business
program/service. Include relevant links and emphasize that the library is there to help the
community.]
Sample reminder messages
After finetuning your resume during the workshop, why not bring it to our upcoming job
fair? Be sure to check out our additional business services, too. Whether you are a
jobseeker, entrepreneur, or established business owner, Library Name is always here to
help you meet your business information needs.
You’ll be sure to leave “Entrepreneurship 101” with great takeaways. Book a study room
after the session for a quiet workspace to start putting your business plan in place.
Section 2: Small Business Owners
LIBRARIES BUILD BUSINESS COMMUNICATIONS TOOLKIT / AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION
27
Sample Press Release
Suggested text and example DOWNLOAD 2-PAGE .DOCX
EXAMPLE
Press Release
___________________________________________________________________
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: <February 22, 2023>
Name
Your Town Library
name@yourtownlibrary.com
Your Town Library Launches Small Business Hub Program for the Business Community
Your Town, WA – February 22, 2023: Your Town Library announced today that they have launched a
new initiative, Small Business Hub, to support small businesses and entrepreneurs in the area. Small
Business Hub provides technology, information resources, and business mentors at the library.
Library Executive Director, [NAME], said, “Small business support is essential to strong, thriving
communities. We are proud to offer resources and services that help support local makers,
entrepreneurs, and small business owners be successful.”
Small Business Hub includes dedicated equipment for aspiring and existing entrepreneurs including
computers, 3D printers, a laser engraver, sewing machines, and more. Small business coaches are also
available for one-to-one appointments on Wednesdays and Saturdays at the Main Branch and the East
Branch. You can make an appointment to meet with a coach at the branch or the library’s website. Small
Business Hub provides equity in access to entrepreneurs in Your Town and helps to create an inclusive
and diverse small business ecosystem.
Your Town Library provides convenient access to a full range of innovative and cost-effective services
that satisfy the changing needs of the people of Your Town for information, education and recreation.
Your Town Library has seven branches across Your Town and the surrounding county, open six days per
week. More information is available at our website: www.yourtownlibraryxyz.com.
###
Press Release Template
___________________________________________________________________
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: <INSERT DATE>
Name
Library
Contact Information
HEADLINE: [Your Library Name] Launches Program for the Business Community
[Location of library – date]: [Your Library Name] announced today that they have launched a new
initiative, [Program/service name], to support small businesses and entrepreneurs in the area.
[Program/name of service] is [quick overview of the program/service].
<Library leader title> <name>, said, “<provide quote from your organization's leadership>.”
Provide details about this program/service including time/location as applicable. How do people access
it? Explain how this program/service will support the small business/entrepreneur community, and the
focus of your project.
[your library boilerplate language – brief standard description of your library and its mission]
###
Section 2: Small Business Owners
LIBRARIES BUILD BUSINESS COMMUNICATIONS TOOLKIT / AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION
28
29
ELECTED
OFFICIALS,
FUNDERS, AND
COMMUNITY
DECISION MAKERS
Over 94% agreed that they were better
prepared to create a business, and 83% learned skills to
grow their existing business. Over 90% of their attendees
—Cuyahoga County Public Library
Cuyahoga, OH
Communicating with...
ELECTED
OFFICIALS,
FUNDERS, AND
COMMUNITY
DECISION MAKERS
Leaders in your community influence the library’s support and
success. Sometimes their influence is direct, such as elected
ocials who govern a city budget that includes the library, or
funders or donors who decide whether or not to give to the
library.
If leaders understand the role the library has to play in supporting small business, and see the
library as an ally in achieving their goals for the community, they can raise awareness and rally
Examples of community leaders may include:
n
n
Leadership staff for cities or municipalities, such as city managers or department heads
n
Local grant-making organizations, such as Rotary or Kiwanis
n
Individual donors
n
n
Individuals with strong relationships and networks in BIPOC and marginalized communities
The goals of communicating with this audience focus on broadening their overall perception of the
Section 3: Elected Ocials, Funders, and Community Decision Makers
LIBRARIES BUILD BUSINESS COMMUNICATIONS TOOLKIT / AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION
30
n
Education.
focus on telling stories that
demonstrate library use
of how entrepreneurs used
library resources to help them
succeed from Libraries Build
Business, or better yet, from
n
Fiscal support. Some in this
access to funding, either
through oversight of its
operating budget or through
economic value, they may be
more likely to see continued
or expanded funding as a good
n
Political or social support. In
a complex and fraught political
environment, libraries may
need community leaders to
stand up for their importance
This may mean speaking at Board or community meetings, authoring op-eds for the local paper,
of the library for all people at all stages of life—as a need-to-have rather than a nice-to-have -
The key message for libraries to communicate to this audience is that the library
in partnership with the Baltimore County
Public Library throughout the years on several
Together, the free programs and
services provided in collaboration are
highly effective at reaching our shared goal
of supporting the economic advancement
Thanks to our partnership with BCPL on the
been able to reach hundreds of small business
owners and entrepreneurs each year and
advise them on a range of small business
dedicated BCPL staff for doing their part to
ensure that traditionally under-resourced
—Francesca Jean-Baptiste, Director of Tax Partnerships
CASH Campaign of Maryland
Section 3: Elected Ocials, Funders, and Community Decision Makers
LIBRARIES BUILD BUSINESS COMMUNICATIONS TOOLKIT / AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION
31
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15 Minute Presentation
Template: “[Your Library]
Builds Business”
FOR ELECTED OFFICIALS AND DECISION MAKERS
Customizable PowerPoint template DOWNLOAD .PPTX
points, graphics, and slide masters containing design elements and tips for placing your logo and
YY OO UU RR NN AA MM EE HH EE RR EE LL II BB RR AA RR YY BB UU II LL DD SS BB UU SS II NN EE SS SS
[Your Name Here] Library
Note: This presentation will look best if you install the Figtree font from Google Fonts.
See the font instructions in the LBB Toolkit materials. All the icons and backgrounds in this template are removable.
Place your library’s logo in the
bottom left corner here.
A transparent logo will work best, or
you can place it in a box. You can also
add your name to the first Slide Master
footer (View>Slide Master).
YY OO UU RR NN AA MM EE HH EE RR EE LL II BB RR AA RR YY
BB UU II LL DD SS BB UU SS II NN EE SS SS
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and decreased
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furthering
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Section 3: Elected Ocials, Funders, and Community Decision Makers
LIBRARIES BUILD BUSINESS COMMUNICATIONS TOOLKIT / AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION
32
PowerPoint fonts and theme installation
instructional PDF with links DOWNLOAD .PDF
This instructional PDF lists and links to the free fonts used in the LBB visual suite, and explains how
PPT FONTS AND THEME
For the LBB PowerPoints to display properly, you will need to install fonts and a PPT Theme.
The LBB Theme.thmx
computer, and from within PowerPoint, go to View > Slide Master > Themes >
Browse for Themes
Display (headings) font:
Figtree
The Figtree font family (multiple light to bold options)
Google Fonts at fonts.google.com/download?family=Figtree
Body text font:
Cambria
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Among survey respondents in a national Libraries Build Business
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Figtree
Cambria
Section 3: Elected Ocials, Funders, and Community Decision Makers
LIBRARIES BUILD BUSINESS COMMUNICATIONS TOOLKIT / AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION
33
Talking Points PDF DOWNLOAD 5-PAGE .PDF
small business (but where the audience is not primarily business owners—see Section 2: Small
Business Owners
LBB: 15-MINUTE COMMUNITY LEADER PRESENTATION
TALKING POINTS
/ 2
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CASE STUDY
Slide 2:
On this slide, you want to tell a story that frames how one entrepreneur used library resources to help
their business succeed. This story is an example from the Ferguson Municipal Public Library in ALA’s Libraries
Build Business Cohort. If you have a local example you can use, replace this slide with their story.
First, I’d like to tell you about Freddie Lee. Freddie had a great product—a BBQ sauce their friends and
family had loved for years. But once he started his company, he found he needed some help to get it into
the hands of buyers. He went to the library, where a librarian helped him get on a computer, build his
digital skills, and get started with social media marketing. The librarian connected him with a wealth of
information to help him launch his business, and maybe more importantly, with connections to people
who could help him, including a mentor. Freddie Lee’s American Gourmet Sauce is now made in the shared
commercial kitchen of a business incubator and is available in 1500+ grocery stores across the United
States.
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Slide 3:
You can already start to see from Freddie’s story how library resources can help one small business
and imagine how it might help others. But now I want you to think bigger, about how through the kinds of
services we offered to Freddie, your library is making the whole local economy thrive.
LBB: 15-MINUTE COMMUNITY LEADER PRESENTATION
TALKING POINTS
/ 1
These talking points correspond to the PowerPoint slides called 15 minute Community Leader
presentation.ppt
included in this Toolkit.
[Your Name Here] Library
Slide 1:
Libraries
Build
Business
15-Minute Community Leader
Presentation Talking Points
Section 3: Elected Ocials, Funders, and Community Decision Makers
LIBRARIES BUILD BUSINESS COMMUNICATIONS TOOLKIT / AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION
34
Email Template to
Raise Awareness
Editable suggested text and example DOWNLOAD 2-PAGE .DOCX
Email Introduction Template
for an Elected Official
___________________________________________________________________
Subject Line: [Your Library Name] Builds Business
Dear [Name]:
I am [name] from [library] in [city, state]. I’m reaching out to you because of your important
work in the small business community. [Add a sentence here from their platform – if business is
a focus, there will likely be some goals or language on their website.] Our library would like to
help support your goal of a thriving local economy.
You may be surprised to find out how much the library has to offer small businesses in your
community - all for free. A recent study from the American Library Association found that 82%
of entrepreneurs who utilized library resources increased their confidence in running their
small business. [If possible, give a 1-2 sentence story or example from your own library.]
As the library increases its focus on serving small businesses, I would like to know how we can
best align with your goal of supporting small business. Would your office be able to meet with
me in the next 2-3 weeks?
Thank you for your time,
Name
Library
Contact Information
EXAMPLE
An introductory email to Susan Smith,
State Representative
___________________________________________________________________
Subject Line: Town Public Library Builds Business
Dear Ms. Smith:
I am Audrey Barbakoff from Town Public Library in Anytown, Washington. I’m reaching out to
you because of your important work in the small business community. I know that you’ve
committed to revitalizing main street businesses in our area, such as your sponsorship of a bill
to provide relief to businesses impacted by COVID-19. Our library would like to help support
your goal of a thriving local economy.
You may be surprised to find out how much the library has to offer small businesses in your
communities - all for free. A recent study from the American Library Association found that 82%
of entrepreneurs who utilized library resources increased their confidence in running their
small business. Recently, our library held a class on using social media for business marketing.
One of the attendees from Anytown used this information to successfully place his BBQ sauce
in 1500+ grocery stores across the country.
As the library increases its focus on serving small businesses, I would like to know how we can
best align with your goal of supporting small business. Would your office be able to meet with
me in the next 2-3 weeks?
Thank you for your time,
Audrey Barbakoff
Town Public Library
555-555-5555 ext. 555
Section 3: Elected Ocials, Funders, and Community Decision Makers
LIBRARIES BUILD BUSINESS COMMUNICATIONS TOOLKIT / AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION
35
Flyer or Leave-Behind
Template for
Elected Ocials
PDF template for 8.5x11 flyer DOWNLOAD .PDF
Figtree
*American Library Association. (2022). Libraries Build Business: Initiative Highlights.
Ready to learn more? Contact:
In a national study,* current small business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs who attended
business training or networking events at the library:
n
82% said that the library’s support has increased their confidence as a business owner.
n
Two-thirds were very likely to recommend the library to other small business owners.
n
A majority were from populations underrepresented in business ownership, such as
Black, Indigenous, and people of color (64%) and women (77%).
Studies consistently show that every $1 invested in libraries generates an average
of $5 in value for the local economy.
BUILDS BUSINESS
Your library supports a thriving
local economy for all.
“
”
The library has always been a place of refuge and resource for me,
personally and professionally. I study the work of other artists in their monographs,
take a class via [the library’s online] Creativebug subscription, and read books
on art history and business. I am currently enrolled in a small business course
offered by my local library that would otherwise be unavailable to me.
—Megan Perkins, Artist, Entrepreneur, and Small Business Boot Camp Participant, Spokane County, WA
Your Library Name Goes Here
Your Name Here
Your Library Name Goes Here
Email address
Phone number
Section 3: Elected Ocials, Funders, and Community Decision Makers
LIBRARIES BUILD BUSINESS COMMUNICATIONS TOOLKIT / AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION
36
“One Small Business
at a Time” Policy Brief
4-page policy brief DOWNLOAD .PDF
Use it as a leave behind at in-person meetings or send the pdf as a follow up to an email inquiry
One Small Business at a Time: Building Economic Opportunity in America’s Communities One Small Business at a Time: Building Economic Opportunity in America’s Communities
3
Gwinnett County (GA) Public Library’s
New Start Entrepreneurship Incubator
(NSEI) aims to serve community members
who have spent time in
prison or jail. This popu-
lation faces diculties and
stigma securing employment.
The NSEI program oers
innovative supports such
as peer learning, laptops
and hotspots, one-on-one
mentorship with mentors matched in terms of
business interest areas, and an opportunity to
secure start-up capital in a “Launchpad” pitch
event with the local business community.
System’s recording studio, for example, entrepreneurs
can use cameras, greenscreens, lighting, and editing soft-
ware to produce audio, video, and graphics; Cleveland
(OH) Public Library’s makerspace includes 3D printers,
sewing machines, and laser engravers for hobbyists and
entrepreneurs alike. These resources help minimize cost
and risk for small business owners and make it possible
for individuals to pursue their entrepreneurial visions. In
addition, libraries oer access to capital through seed
funding competitions in partnership with financial insti-
tutions and other partners. The Brooklyn (NY) Public
Library and the Round Rock (TX) Public Library, for
instance, oered pitch competitions for participants to
pitch their ideas and win funding. For businesses ready
to test and launch their products, the Central Arkansas
Library System oers co-retail space in their River
Shop at the library on Saturdays, and Middle Country
(NY) Public Library oers annual small business expos,
inviting emerging entrepreneurs to vend their wares and
connect with prospective customers and clients.
Serving underrepresented
entrepreneurs
While entrepreneurship is a growing path to economic
mobility, many individuals face barriers to access.
Libraries help reach these demographics by oering
targeted entrepreneurship programs and assistance
for underserved groups. The Providence (RI) Public
Library, for one, partners with the Rhode Island Hispanic
Chamber of Commerce to oer free business educa-
tion seminars for Spanish-speaking small business
owners and can serve business owners in Spanish when
needed. At Purdue University (IN) Libraries, business
librarians work with veterans taking part in the Entre-
preneurial Bootcamp for Veterans with Disabilities as
they develop marketing plans and provide additional
support by phone, email, and online, including access to
relevant library databases and software. The Los Angeles
Public Library worked with street vendors to develop
mobile phone accessible self-paced courses to navigate
business and safety concerns. Allen County (IN) and
Orange County (FL) public libraries oer entrepre-
neurship programming targeted to teens and youth; the
Norman (OK) High School Library Learning Commons
includes a Maker Lab for students to engage. And, the
Spokane County (WA) Library District’s Small Business
Boot Camp helped rural business owners with limited
internet access build their business through training and
micro-grants. By identifying local needs, libraries expand
pathways toward economic opportunity for all.
n
The Baltimore
County (MD) Public
Library’s popular
Entrepreneurship
Academy program
provides classes on
writing a business plan,
market research, financial recordkeeping and
taxes, merchandising, pricing, and engaging
with customers. In response to community
demand, the classes are available in English and
Spanish and are oered in-person as well as
online several times throughout the year. The
library hosts a regular “Pop-up Shop” event for
program participants and local entrepreneurs.
The 2021 Small Business Day Pop-Up Shop
hosted more than 60 vendors at three dierent
branch libraries, and more than 400 customers
visited the shops. The Pop-Up Shops are a fun
way to help entrepreneurs build confidence and
test out their ideas without investing in market
fees or a brick-and-mortar location.
L
ibraries propel entrepreneurship and economic
opportunity across the United States. To
research or brainstorm new ideas or markets,
develop business plans, gain access to emerging
technologies, leverage local business resources, and
sustain an enterprise, the 123,000 libraries across the
country are ideal partners. Libraries oer a cost-eective
national network that can be leveraged to support both
aspiring and existing business owners—including those
not traditionally served by business support networks. To
advance economic opportunity for all, we urge decision
makers in the U.S. Small Business Administration, U.S.
Department of Commerce, and other federal agencies;
the White House; U.S. Congress; business-related asso-
ciations, foundations and corporate philanthropy; think
tanks; and other organizations to include libraries in their
plans to promote and advance entrepreneurship and
small business development.
Library support for small businesses
Nearly all public libraries oer baseline support for
entrepreneurs by providing meeting spaces, public
computers, and internet access, as well as access to
e-books, magazines, and newspapers. Many libraries of
all types oer introductory to advanced support such
as locally relevant business start-up classes, market
research help and database access, and guidance in
leveraging social media and other online tools. The
LA Law Library (CA), for example, oers a class series
to take budding entrepreneurs from business idea to
business plan, and provides legal perspective on starting
and operating a business. In Pennsylvania, small business
One Small Business at a Time
Building Economic Opportunity in America’s Communities
Takeaways for decision makers
Realizing economic opportunity for all means
heightened entrepreneurship and small business
activity across the nation. How can such activity
be promoted and supported cost eectively? One
solution is libraries—123,000 strong—already present
in communities across the United States.
Libraries have the information resources,
technology, physical presence, and expert sta
to research and brainstorm new ideas or markets,
develop business plans, gain access to or learn
about emerging technologies, obtain information
about intellectual property, and implement business
plans and sustain an enterprise. Libraries help small
business owners minimize risk and launch their
ventures by oering online and community-based
professional development classes, prototyping tools,
connection to community resources, and marketing
assistance.
Leverage libraries in new policy initiatives to grow
entrepreneurship and small business.
Section 3: Elected Ocials, Funders, and Community Decision Makers
LIBRARIES BUILD BUSINESS COMMUNICATIONS TOOLKIT / AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION
37
SOCIAL MEDIA POST EXAMPLES FOR
ELECTED OFFICIAL/COMMUNITY STAKEHOLDER AUDIENCES
/ 2
YourLibrary
@your_library • 1 hr
...
We appreciated [city counselor/
county commissioner] inspiring us
with [their] remarks at our
career fair this past [Monday].
Visit us anytime to check out our
[business resources] or just
grab a book!
THANKS FOR YOUR SUPPORT
YourLibrary
@your_library • 1 hr
...
Our library is committed to
supporting local economic
development and our local
entrepreneurs. We’re using [local
city grant money] to update our
business center with a 3D
printer and new computers.
WE OFFER ______ TO YOUR CONSTITUENTS
YourLibrary
@your_library • 1 hr
...
Rachel from [@SmallBizBakery]
came into the library for help with
writing a business plan. She
also took a course on online
marketing using our Creative Suite
subscription.
WE OFFER ______ TO YOUR CONSTITUENTS
YourLibrary
@your_library • 1 hr
...
As of today, our free business
mentoring consultations in
partnership with [@SCORENWNJ]
have served [280] current business
owners and aspiring entrepreneurs
since starting up in [August]!
YourLibrary
@your_library • 1 hr
...
Our industry research service helped
[@SmallBizCandles] to develop
a marketing plan to reach new
customers! [They] were also able to
sign up for our monthly networking
event, joining a working group of
[45] professionals!
Sample Social
Media Posts
Suggested text/images and examples DOWNLOAD 2-PAGE .PDF
SOCIAL MEDIA POST EXAMPLES FOR
ELECTED OFFICIAL/COMMUNITY STAKEHOLDER AUDIENCES
/ 1
TIP REMEMBER TO TAG
YOUR ELECTED OFFICIAL
For example, use a partner’s Twitter handle if
posting via Twitter or use the “Tag People ” function
to connect them with your Instagram post.
Libraries
Build
Business
Social Media Post Examples
FOR ELECTED OFFICIAL/COMMUNITY STAKEHOLDER AUDIENCES
THANK YOU FOR VISITING
YourLibrary @your_library • 1 hr ...
We had a great time showing
[@ExampleOcial] our [Small
business incubator] and co-working
spaces. Thank you for visiting our
library!
YourLibrary @your_library • 1 hr ...
“[name of library] has helped nearly
275 local business owners with our
free [SCORE] monthly program!”
WE OFFER ______ TO YOUR CONSTITUENTS
TIP USE HASHTAGS
Use the hashtag #librariesbuildbusiness—
or make your own based on
your library’s program if you like.
#
Section 3: Elected Ocials, Funders, and Community Decision Makers
LIBRARIES BUILD BUSINESS COMMUNICATIONS TOOLKIT / AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION
38
Identifying Local
Leaders Worksheet
2-page fillable PDF DOWNLOAD .PDF
LBB: IDENTIFYING LOCAL LEADERS WORKSHEET / 2
Where could you fi nd a Small Business Development Center
nearest your library?
Search help: sba.gov/local-assistance/fi nd?type=Small%20Business%20
Development%20Center&pageNumber=1
ADDRESS/WEBESITE/CONTACT INFO:
Are there other prominent
local leaders (business
owners, involved community
members) you think would
be interested in hearing
about your library’s business
services?
NAME: CONTACT INFO:
Who represents your library
in your state legislature (ex:
House of Representatives,
House of Delegates)?
Search help: openstates.org/fi nd_
your_legislator
NAME: CONTACT INFO:
Who represents your library in
your State Senate?
NAME: CONTACT INFO:
Who is the governor?
NAME: CONTACT INFO:
Are there any state-level
o cials (Attorney General,
Secretary of State) you would
want to contact as well?
NAME: CONTACT INFO:
Who represents your library in
the House of Representatives?
Search help: congress.gov/members/
fi nd-your-member
NAME: CONTACT INFO:
What committees/caucuses
are they part of?
COMMITTEE/CAUCUS:
Who are your Senators?
NAME: CONTACT INFO:
What committees/caucuses
are they part of?
COMMITTEE/CAUCUS:
Libraries
Build
Business
Identifying Local Leaders
City and county where your
library is located
CITY: COUNTY:
Municipal government where
your library is located
Is there a city/town council?
Who represents your library’s
address?
NAME: CONTACT INFO:
Is there a board of education?
Who serves on the school
board?
SCHOOL BOARD MEMBERS: CONTACT INFO:
Is there a county government?
Who is the county executive?
Who represents your library (a
commissioner or councilor?)
Search help: commoncause.org/fi nd-
your-representative
COUNTY EXECUTIVE: CONTACT INFO:
YOUR REPRESENTATIVE: CONTACT INFO:
Where is the nearest U.S. Chamber of Commerce to your library?
Search help: uschamber.com/co/chambers
CONTACT INFO:
LBB: IDENTIFYING LOCAL LEADERS WORKSHEET / 1
Use this form to copy and paste names, contact information,
and notes into the PDF fi elds, or print and fi ll in by hand.
Section 3: Elected Ocials, Funders, and Community Decision Makers
LIBRARIES BUILD BUSINESS COMMUNICATIONS TOOLKIT / AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION
39
Tips for Building
Relationships with
Local Leaders
PDF tip sheet DOWNLOAD 2-PAGE .PDF
TIPS FOR BUILDING RELATIONSHIPS WITH
ELECTED OFFICIALS
/ 2
Lead with a story, follow with data.
depth
breadth
Invite them to tour the library.
Follow up!
from constituents
Engage with library supporters.
A NOTE ON THESE TIPS: Some of the advice compiled here was inspired by resources from
the Congressional Management Foundation and adapted to best fit library advocates.
TIPS FOR BUILDING RELATIONSHIPS WITH
ELECTED OFFICIALS
/ 1
Libraries
Build
Business
Tips for Building Relationships
WITH ELECTED OFFICIALS
Do your homework.
they’ve made publicly available.
Go where they are.
use your judgment
Bring a 1–2-page summary of your issue.
n
n
n
n
Section 3: Elected Ocials, Funders, and Community Decision Makers
LIBRARIES BUILD BUSINESS COMMUNICATIONS TOOLKIT / AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION
40
4
LIBRARY
STAFF
“I think Entrepreneur Academy took me to a
whole other level because I didn’t even know
that the library had so many resources
available to me
bring the resources to the table with the
—Participant, Entrepreneur Academy
Baltimore County and Enoch Pratt Free Libraries
Baltimore, MD
Communicating with...
LIBRARY
STAFF
The tools in this section are designed to be shared with library
sta who may not be directly involved with small business
services. Cultivating library-wide understanding of what you have
to oer can be helpful in many ways.
n
Staff who interact with patrons may receive questions from or observe people who could
questions about small business themselves, if they are generally aware of the types of resources
n
Staff who attend community meetings and develop partnerships may learn about community
With a general idea of what kinds of support the
library can provide, they can speak succinctly about
n
Staff in back-of-house positions may be able to alert
patron-facing staff to relevant new resources, or
have ideas for creating support structures that build
n
Staff in any role may be asked about the library by
The primary goal of talking with library staff is general
The key message for this audience is that they do not need to
Ferguson (MO) Municipal Public
Library helped an aspiring
entrepreneur set up a Facebook
page to sell his BBQ sauce,
assisted him with computer
skills, and connected him with
other resources, including
Freddie
Lee’s American Gourmet—is
now available in 1500+ grocery
Section 4: Library Sta
LIBRARIES BUILD BUSINESS COMMUNICATIONS TOOLKIT / AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION
42
Library Sta
Talking Points
PDF talking points DOWNLOAD .PDF
LBB: BUSINESS SERVICES AT THE LIBRARY
TALKING POINTS FOR LIBRARY STAFF
/ 1
Be sure to share information across the library staff about ongoing business-related programming, services,
and resources. Recognize that existing library resources, such as printers, meeting space, and audio/visual
equipment may be exactly what an entrepreneur needs to work on their business. Making sure that all
library staff are sharing a consistent message about the resources available for entrepreneurs and small
business owners is key to making them feel welcome and equipped to work in the library.
Business Reference Talking Points
n
Whether the patron is a jobseeker, entrepreneur, or established business owner, the library oers a
variety of business resources and services to help you meet a patron’s business information needs.
n
We host many business programs and events at the library, such as [Recurring program/event
name(s)]. Check out our [events page/program guide] for upcoming events. [insert links/share flyers]
n
We also oer online business research tools, such as [resource name(s)], which [description of
highlighted resources].
n
Need a place to work? Book a [study/meeting room] by [method of booking].
n
In addition to workspaces, we have Wi-Fi access, computers, and technology such as [printers/
copiers/laptops/hotspots/makerspace, etc.] at the library.
Ü
If you have a Makerspace in your library, include a separate talking point that describes what
you oer at your Makerspace.
n
For additional business oerings, please visit our website at [ URL].
n
If you’d like in-depth, one-on-one assistance, please schedule an appointment with our [business
librarian/library sta title], who can help you with [using our online resources, other services the
sta member can provide, etc.], and more. You can book an appointment by [method of scheduling/
contact info].
Libraries
Build
Business
Business Services at the Library
TALKING POINTS FOR LIBRARY STAFF
Section 4: Library Sta
LIBRARIES BUILD BUSINESS COMMUNICATIONS TOOLKIT / AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION
43
Asset Mapping
Worksheet
2-page oversized fillable poster/PDF DOWNLOAD .PDF
this worksheet to appraise the current strengths and resources of your library and the community
around you, and list people, places, organizations, and institutions that have the potential to elevate
BUSINESS ORGANIZATIONS
AND BUSINESS SUPPORT...
... at your library
(e.g., your library computer lab/equipment)
... in your community
(e.g., your local Chamber of Commerce)
... in your state
(e.g., a small business development center)
... at the national/federal level
(e.g., the SBA)
ASSET MAPPING Worksheet
Asset mapping is a way to determine what resources a project needs and where they’re located. Use this worksheet to appraise the
current strengths and resources of your library and the community around you, and list people, places, organizations, and institutions
that have the potential to elevate your library’s entrepreneurship initiatives!
ELECTED AND
COMMUNITY LEADERS...
... at your library
(e.g., your business librarian)
... in your community
(e.g., your school board or city council)
... in your state
(e.g., state government representatives)
... at the national/federal level
(e.g., senators/representatives)
FUNDING SOURCES /
RESOURCES AVAILABLE...
... from your library
(e.g., research assistance)
... from your community
(e.g., incentives and grants)
... from your state
(e.g., state library resources or funding)
... from the national/federal level
(e.g., SBA loans)
SMALL BUSINESS
OWNERS...
... at your library
(e.g., networking opportunities)
... in your community
(e.g., business mentors)
... in your state
(e.g., workshops from SCORE)
... at the national/federal level
(e.g., business associations)
LBB: ASSET MAPPING WORKSHEET / 1
NOTE: This and the following page can be printed large or used as a
slide for the purposes of a collaborative/brainstorming session.
At the
Federal
Level
At the
State
Level
At the
Community
Level
At Your
Library
Resources Related to Business Support /
Businesses Organizations
Resources Available from Elected
and Community Leaders
Funding Sources /
Resources Available
Resources Available from
Other Small Business Owners
LBB: ASSET MAPPING WORKSHEET / 2
Section 4: Library Sta
LIBRARIES BUILD BUSINESS COMMUNICATIONS TOOLKIT / AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION
44
Sample Volunteer
Job Description
Sample text/format DOWNLOAD 2-PAGE .PDF
If you are looking for local businesspeople to serve as mentors, coaches, or program facilitators
template to think about the role you are seeking and what kinds of information you need about
LBB: JOB DESCRIPTION
BUSINESS MENTORS AND COACHES
/ 2
n
40 Oce Hours per month, 10 hours per week, to include 5 hours per week of administrative time
for program planning, creating a blog post, TV or radio interview, or writing for a local business
publication.
n
Oce Hours/Coaching Appointments (minimum of 5 one-on-one appointments per week).
n
Public Programs (minimum of 1 per month, may be co-presented with a Richland Library Community
Partner or Partners (Panel or Fireside Chat).
n
$2800/Monthly Stipend, payable at the end of each month of the Residency.
Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
n
Commitment to develop Columbia’s small business community by mentoring and inspiring new
entrepreneurs.
n
A proven record of starting and developing a successful small to medium-sized business in Columbia.
n
3 or more years of successful business experience.
n
Excellent communication skills.
n
Expert knowledge to evaluate business ideas and plans against essential criteria for success.
Closing date for applications:
February 15, 2023
Timeline:
Application Posting, February 1, 2023 for 2 weeks, Residency for March 1, 2023–June 30, 2023.
Entrepreneur-in-Residence (EiR) Website Application
n
First Name
n
Last Name
n
Email Address
n
Phone Number
n
Address
Cover Letter:
Attach Here
Resume:
Attach Here
Currently, what do you think are the top 3 challenges for Small Business owners?
New Business
owners? Experienced business owners?
Business References (x2):
Please provide contact information for each reference
Please list
any websites and social media handles.
What is your experience with teaching/leading programs for adults?
Please provide examples.
*If selected for an interview, the applicant will create and present on a timely small business topic.
LBB: JOB DESCRIPTION
BUSINESS MENTORS AND COACHES
/ 1
Libraries
Build
Business
JOB DESCRIPTION
Business Mentors and Coaches
If you are looking for local businesspeople to serve as mentors, coaches, or program facilitators in your
library program, you will need to post a job description. This Toolkit includes an example (below) from
Richland Library in South Carolina that they use to recruit their Entrepreneur-in-Residence (EIR). Use this
as a template to think about the role you are seeking and what kinds of information you need about potential
candidates.
Business mentors, coaches, or facilitators may be volunteers, paid consultants, fellows, or part-time staff.
BUSINESS, CAREERS AND RESEARCH CENTER
Richland Library Entrepreneur-in-Residence
Job Description and Application
General Statement
The Entrepreneur-in-Residence (EIR) will oer diverse entrepreneurs the opportunity to connect and
interact with successful entrepreneurs and business experts who truly understand the disparities of
entrepreneurship due to their own life experiences.
The EIR will be available for one-on-one mentoring appointments to inspire and motivate individuals in
their business journey.
The EIR will design and present entrepreneur-focused programs with diverse subject matter experts to
cultivate learning and networking.
The Details
n
Residency: March 1, 2023–June 30, 2023.
Section 4: Library Sta
LIBRARIES BUILD BUSINESS COMMUNICATIONS TOOLKIT / AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION
45
Sample Impact
Stories Sheet
Quotes, stories, and data DOWNLOAD 3-PAGE .DOCX
communicating the impacts of your work is important to attracting the attention of stakeholders
data are all important to illustrating the impact of your work on individuals and the community at
BBaallttiimmoorree CCoouunnttyy PPuubblliicc LLiibbrraarryy
In 2018, 60 participants, 52 of whom completed the series entirely, participated in the Entrepreneur
Academy, offered at branches of the Baltimore County Public and Enoch Pratt Free libraries. As of 2022,
more than 350 people have successfully completed the series through the Baltimore County Public
Library.
Quotes from Program Participants
“Participating in the Small Business Boot Camp was very validating to me as an artist because it meant
my business was being taken seriously by someone other than me and, not only that, it felt like the staff
at the Spokane County Library District fully believed in my ability to be a successful business owner and
wanted to help me succeed, so that was marvelous experience. Having monthly meetings was also
helpful because it provided accountability for keeping the business part of my art career top of mind,
rather than letting that slide in favor of day to day running the business and trying to make the work to
sell.”
—Megan Perkins, Local Artist and Small Business Boot Camp Participant
Spokane County Library District, Spokane, WA
“There is so much information you need to organize to start a business and be successful. We learned
how to organize our plans and dreams and to make them functional [at the Macedon Public Library
Entrepeneur Workshop series]. We developed a plan and broke down the steps to achieve what we
wanted to do... A workshop series like this, with your peers to bounce ideas off of, mentors to guide
you, and speakers to inspire you, is a great way to begin. Libraries are the perfect place to have a
program like this.”
—Melinda Kelsey, Proprietor, Kitten Around Cat Boarding
Macedon Public Library, Macedon, NY
“[Biz.ability] is a free resource for local business owners who may not have the knowledge of how to
find this type of information. It is also amazing how it brings the small business community together in a
way that builds an incredibly strong network.”
—Tina Ward, Co-Owner, Fades Barbershop
Round Rock Public Library, Round Rock, TX
“I think Entrepreneur Academy took me to a whole other level because I didn’t even know that the
library had so many resources available to me . . . I appreciate that [they] bring the resources to the
table with the expectation to help the individual.”
—Participant, Entrepreneur Academy
Baltimore County and Enoch Pratt Free Libraries, Baltimore, MD
LBB Impact Stories
___________________________________________________________________
As you build out your library’s small business and entrepreneurship offerings, successfully communicating
the impacts of your work is important to attracting the attention of stakeholders and reminding your
community partners of the importance of their support. Stories, examples, and data are all important to
illustrating the impact of your work on individuals and the community at large.
Below are some examples of libraries helping patrons achieve their business goals, as well as partnering
with other business support organizations. The Libraries Build Business Initiative Highlights report can be
leveraged to demonstrate library impact on small business and entrepreneurship. It is designed to
showcase impact at the individual, community, and library levels for external audiences. Feel free to use
these stories, quotes, and data in your own marketing and outreach materials, or start building a
repository of your library’s own business stories.
Impact Data
SStt.. LLoouuiiss CCoouunnttyy LLiibbrraarryy
The St. Louis County Library in Missouri created the Small Business Value Calculator in 2018 in order to
put a monetary value on the services they provide. To build the calculator, they listed all the small
business services and resources they offer at the library and looked for what they would cost on the
open market. Resources may include: marketing, demographic, industry, and consumer research;
computers and technology; and classes and workshops. The staff totaled up the dollar value of using
everything the library offers just once in a year and determined that the library was saving customers
more than $13,000 each year. This piece of data catches the attention of business owners, community
partners, and decision makers and helps to illustrate the great work the library is doing on small
business development.
CCuuyyaahhooggaa CCoouunnttyy PPuubblliicc LLiibbrraarryy
In their first year of operation, over 450 graduates completed Cuyahoga County Public Library’s Encore
Entrepreneur Academy. Over 94% agreed that they were better prepared to create a business, and 83%
learned skills to grow their existing business. Over 90% of their attendees were women—the majority of
whom were minority women.
FFeerrgguussoonn MMuunniicciippaall PPuubblliicc LLiibbrraarryy
Ferguson Municipal Public Library in Missouri helped an aspiring entrepreneur set up a Facebook page
to sell his BBQ sauce. The library assisted him with this, as well as computer skills, and connected him
with other resources, including SCORE. The BBQ sauce—Freddie Lee’s American Gourmet
—is now
available in 1500+ grocery stores.
Section 4: Library Sta
LIBRARIES BUILD BUSINESS COMMUNICATIONS TOOLKIT / AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION
46
Program Evaluation
Resources
PDF linking to evaluation tools and tips DOWNLOAD .PDF
This resource provides links to easy evaluation tools and resources designed for library business
LBB: EVALUATING YOUR BUSINESS PROGRAMS
/ 1
Monitoring and evaluation of your library programs is critical to success and
sustaining your initiative. Not only does data and feedback about your programs
help you to continuously improve programs and adapt to the needs of your
community, it also enables you to showcase your impact.
Use our
Libraries Build Business Monitoring and Evaluation Resource Guide (above)
to consider strategies for effectively evaluating your programs and receiving essential feedback from the
community. The resource guide shares information about using
PLA’s
Project Outcome (left) to create
customized surveys for your small business
programs as well as the Libraries Build
Business initiative’s survey, interview and
focus group instruments and protocols.
Read the
Topsham Public Library Case Study
(right) to learn more about the role of
monitoring and evaluation in your library’s
business programs.
Evaluation from a variety of perspectives is critical, and you can use interviews,
surveys, and focus groups to gather community input—including from local small businesses, community
partners and small business support organizations,
opportunity for feedback is a vital component of effective
communication and outreach and opens the door for
building long-term relationships and investment. Use
the LBB Interview and Protocols documents for
Elected
Ocials
, Small Businesses, and Library Focus Groups (left)
as a template for these conversations.
Libraries
Build
Business
Evaluating Your
Business Programs
Tell a story with impact data and feedback from participants
Projectoutcome.org website
LBB C AS E STU DY: U SI NG EV ALU ATI ON TO OL S TO ST RE NGT HE N YOU R LI BRA RY S MA LL BU SI NE SS PR OG RA M
1
LIB RAR IES BU ILD
BUS INE SS IN
MID COA ST M AIN E
Situated in the heart of predominantly rural
Topsham, Maine, the Topsham Public Library is
an integral part of the community, supporting
access and connectivity for
residents. Its mission is to be “a
community center for all ages.”
As you arrive in Topsham, a
community of roughly 7,000
people located between Portland
and Augusta, you are greeted by
the Androscoggin River and a
small downtown area. Beyond
the town center, broadband access quickly drops
off in the more rural parts of Topsham.
The Topsham Public Library has been
actively involved in supporting small businesses,
entrepreneurs, and jobseekers since before the
Brunswick Naval Air Station, a large employer
in the area, closed in 2005. When Susan M.
Preece, Topsham’s Library Director, moved into
her position shortly after the Naval Air Station
closed, she set out to support the community
with needed career and entrepreneurship
support. Building from there, in 2020, Topsham
was awarded a Libraries Build Business (LBB)
grant from the American Library Association to
advance their work supporting small businesses
and entrepreneurs and developing
the Employment and Business
Entrepreneur Center at the library.
The Topsham Public Library
Employment and Business
Entrepreneur Center provides a
comprehensive and coordinated
series of programs, drop-ins,
informational opportunities, and
collection enhancements in collaboration with
partners, including the Maine CareerCenters, New
Ventures Maine, the Southern Midcoast Chamber of
Commerce, and Topsham Economic Development.
Topsham Public Library provides access to
technology and the Internet to the community,
including low-income and rural patrons, trying to
evolve and grow its small businesses. “Partnering
L i b r a r i e s
B u il d
B u s i n es s
CA SE S TU DY: T OP SH AM P UB LI C LI BR AR Y
Using Evaluation Tools to Strengthen
Your Library Small Business Program
“Partnering with
experts and
connecting people is
what libraries do.”
—Susan M. Preece, Director,
Topsham Public Library
Appendix C: LBB Monitoring and Evaluation Instruments / 68
M&E Resource 3: Small Business Interview
This interview is also available online as a Google doc.
SECTION I: INTRODUCTIONS/ WARM UP
5 MINUTES
Moderator notes:
●
The “why” is an essenal part of everything we are learning. When asking follow-up quesons, as
oen as possible, push for the “why” behind each answer
●
Probe to understand any core values, assumpons, biases, or inuences (cultural and other) that
contribute to the way the entrepreneur discusses the topics
●
If a topic from a queson or probing queson has already been discussed before the queson was
asked, move onto a dierent queson or probing queson—do not ask quesons that have already
been answered
●
You likely will not be able to ask all the quesons in this interview. This is both okay and expected.
Please do not rush through the quesons—allow me for the entrepreneur to provide quality
responses
●
You may go “o script” if other quesons arise based on the entrepreneur’s responses
Introducon:
● Moderator provides a brief introducon of him or herself
●
Moderator emphasizes that all responses are appreciated and needed. There are no right or wrong
answers
●
The parcipant will be audio recorded during this interview for tracking purposes. Someone will be
taking notes during the discussion, but may need to use the recording to collect verbam quotes
Ground Rules for the Parcipant:
● Enjoy yourself
● Please be open and honest (no consequences)
● Help me: Are there things I should be asking or things you would like to tell me?
● When you have a comment or queson please speak up so I can hear you
● Always pay aenon:
o Please put away your cell phone
o Avoid any distracons unl the interview ends
Appendix C: LBB Monitoring and Evaluation Instruments / 71
M&E Resource 4: Elected Ocials Interview
This interview is also available online as a Google doc.
SECTION I: INTRODUCTIONS/ WARM UP
5 MINUTES
Moderator notes:
●
The “why” is an essenal part of everything we are learning. When asking follow-up quesons, as
oen as possible, push for the “why” behind each answer
●
Probe to understand any core values, assumpons, biases, or inuences (cultural and other) that
contribute to the way the elected ocial discusses the topics
●
If a topic from a queson or probing queson has already been discussed before the queson was
asked, move onto a dierent queson or probing queson—do not ask quesons that have already
been answered
●
You likely will not be able to ask all the quesons in this interview. This is both okay and expected.
Please do not rush through the quesons—allow me for the elected ocial to provide quality
responses
●
You may go “o script” if other quesons arise based on the elected ocial’s responses
Introducon:
● Moderator provides a brief introducon of him or herself
●
Moderator emphasizes that all responses are appreciated and needed. There are no right or wrong
answers
●
The parcipant will be audio recorded during this interview for tracking purposes. Someone will be
taking notes during the discussion, but may need to use the recording to collect verbam quotes
Ground Rules for the Elected Ocial:
● Enjoy yourself
● Please be open and honest (no consequences)
● Help me: Are there things I should be asking or things you would like to tell me?
● When you have a comment or queson please speak up so I can hear you
● Always pay aenon:
o Please put away your cell phone
o Avoid any distracons unl the interview ends
Appendix C: LBB Monitoring and Evaluation Instruments / 79
M&E Resource 7: Library Focus Group
This interview is also available online as a Google doc.
SECTION I: INTRODUCTIONS/ WARM UP
5 MINUTES
Moderator notes:
●
The “why” is an essenal part of everything we are learning. When asking follow-up quesons, as
oen as possible, push for the “why” behind each answer
●
Probe to understand any core values, assumpons, biases, or inuences (cultural and other) that
contribute to the way libraries discuss the topics
●
If a topic from a queson or probing queson has already been discussed by the libraries before the
queson was asked, move onto a dierent queson or probing queson—do not ask quesons that
have already been answered
●
You likely will not be able to ask all the quesons in this focus group. This is both okay and expected.
Please do not rush through the quesons—allow me for libraries to provide quality responses
●
You may go “o script” if other quesons arise based on the elected ocial’s responses
Introducon:
● Moderator provides a brief introducon of him or herself
●
Moderator emphasizes that all responses are appreciated and needed. There are no right or wrong
answers, and parcipants should speak up even if they feel they are the only person in the room
with a certain opinion/percepon
●
Parcipants will be audio recorded during this focus group for tracking purposes. Someone will be
taking notes during the discussion, but may need to use the recording to collect verbam quotes
● Moderator goes around the room and has each library introduce themselves (i.e. individual’s name
and name of aliated library)
Ground Rules for Libraries:
● Enjoy yourself
● Please be open and honest (no consequences)
● Feel free to disagree with others
● Help me: Are there things I should be asking or things you would like to tell me?
● When you have a comment or queson please speak up so I can hear you
● Please respect each other’s comments and let each other nish speaking prior to adding your
own comments.
● Always pay aenon:
o Please put away your cell phones
o Avoid any distracons unl the focus group ends
Resource Guide
PDF DOWNLOAD
Case Study
PDF DOWNLOAD
Interview and Protocols documents
GOOGLE DOC DOWNLOADS
Section 4: Library Sta
LIBRARIES BUILD BUSINESS COMMUNICATIONS TOOLKIT / AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION
47
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
The LIBRARIES BUILD BUSINESS COMMUNICATIONS TOOLKIT
was created in collaboration between ALA’s Public Policy and Advocacy oce
and Co/lab Capacity. We wish to thank project leads Audrey Barbako and
Megan Janicki and contributors Jim Takeshita, Jazzy Celindro,
Karen Sheets de Gracia, and the Libraries Build Business Community.
MORE INFORMATION
For more information about this toolkit or the Libraries Build Business initiative, please contact
Megan Janicki at mjanicki@alawash.org or visit our website: ala.org/advocacy/workforce/grant.
American Library Association
Public Policy & Advocacy
1615 New Hampshire Avenue, N.W.
First Floor, Washington, D.C. 20009
Telephone 202-628-8410 / Fax 202-628-9419
ala.org/wo
©2023 American Library Association.
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution License,
available at: creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0.
c b
