MAKING THE CASE FOR AN ACADEMIC FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY GROUP
More and more academic libraries are starting Friends groups on campus. Having such groups is a great way to generate more awareness about the library and what it has to offer, create a natural advocacy group, and raise additional funds for the library.
Sometimes, however, the college or university development office turns down requests to start such a group. They may feel that you’d be competing for the same funds and/or donors. They might not see the need for such a group, or they might feel that this is their job—not yours.
It’s important, of course, to have the development office’s support before establishing a Friends of the Library group. If you have any trouble convincing them, here are a few tips to help you make your case.
- 1. Friends groups can generate greater awareness about the library and all it has to offer. These groups can provide additional communication points for the library, including newsletters and social networking.
- 2. Friends groups can assist in an academic library’s mission to develop external relations through communications, publications, events, donor cultivation, and stewardship.
- 3. Friends groups typically raise small amounts of money from many donors. These “small” donors can be shared with the development office for potential large gifts now or later.
- 4. Academic Friends provide opportunities for involvement and participation in the work of the organization. Library staff can serve on Friends’ committees and use this service as evidence of participation in the mission of the college or university.
- 5. Staff members who are Friends of the Library can help achieve the library’s mission to ensure that personnel convey a consistent message about the library, and engage in their roles as ambassadors in order to expand user awareness of resources, services, and expertise.
- 6. Friends groups have proved invaluable in helping the library develop programs that, in turn, engage the academic community, and often members of the town or city—another potential source for development by the development office.
- 7. Friends groups and members have an opportunity to join United for Libraries, providing access to committee service and expansion of peer connections.
- 8. Parents often visit the library when visiting with prospective students—they know how important the library is. A Friends group can provide parents with a small way to contribute while their students are in college.