Advocacy Toolkit

Download the toolkit (PDF).

INTRODUCTION

Investing in teen services isn’t just good for teens; it’s good for libraries and for communities. It is up to those of us who care deeply about those services and who understand their importance to make the case—with our administrators, with colleagues, with library boards of trustees, and with our communities.
 
The 2012 Public Library Data Service Survey (http://www.ala.org/pla/publications/plds) indicated that only about 1 in 3 public libraries has a teen services specialist on staff. Recent studies from the NCES indicate that only 79% of secondary schools employ a school librarian. Ongoing advocacy efforts can help ensure that all teens have access to great libraries! Why advocate? Because you are the voice for the teens! Help ensure that 100% of libraries have the staff, budget and resources needed to serve the nation’s 42 million teens.
 
But sometimes we don’t know how to get started making that case, or we’re not sure what we can do. This toolkit will provide some practical tips, messages, facts, and strategies to help you speak up—without adding too much to your already full plate. Your teens deserve more, and you are their voice.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

  • Introduction
  • What is Advocacy?
  • Everyday Advocacy
  • Developing & Delivering Your Message
  • Using Web Tools for Advocacy
  • Build Partnerships
  • Basics of National Legislative Advocacy
  • Meeting with Elected Officials
  • Talking Points
  • Advocacy Resources