In this session, we will review strategies that allow the library to expand community access through existing and prospective community partnerships. Participants will be able to identify current partners’ ability to promote library resources and offerings and to design a point-of-access plan with current and/or prospective community partners.

This session is part of the Reimagining Library Outreach and Access series of 10 workshops taking place through March 2025 that will provide library staff with strategies, tools, and frameworks to expand their reach and impact within their communities. Using their own library and local data, participants have the opportunity to evaluate barriers to access within their own communities and to reconsider their approach to outreach utilizing their existing assets and structures.

Presenter: 

Libraries Without Borders US (LWB)

LWB revolutionizes the reach of the library, expanding community access to critical information, education, and resources. Using local assessment and community engagement strategies, LWB partners with library systems to sustainably expand reach and utilization. 

Nina Safane (she/her)

Nina is a community-based leader and educator with a background in organizational development. For the last 15 years, she has built and led systems, teams, and organizations that increase access to education and public health services. She previously led COVIDCheck Colorado, a social benefit enterprise, and co-founded the Girls Athletic Leadership Schools, an innovative school model. Nina has a BA in Education Studies from Brown University and an MA in Education from Columbia University.

Vanesha McGee (she/her)

Vanesha is a community advocate with ten years of experience as an educator, building communities within classrooms. Her expertise as a professional writer focuses on diversity, equity, and inclusion across industries. Vanesha holds a Bachelor of Arts from Temple University and a Master of Science in Education from the University of Pennsylvania.

Recording and Slides:

This program is being recorded and will be made available on the Libraries Without Borders LibGuide page. (Please allow up to five business days for availability.)

Who Should Come?

Perfect for anyone who would like to consider a variety of ways to expand access through community partnerships. Consider attending if you are a library director, department head, librarians, library staff, or plan to do any type of outreach in your community.

Accessibility 

This webinar will be captioned. If you require another access service to participate fully, please use the Accommodation Request Form at least 7 days prior to the event.