Last year, Daniel Boone Regional Library hosted 1,788 programs, drawing a total attendance of more than 39,000. That number included people of all ages and backgrounds, some who visited library programs every week and many who came for only one event. Whether you are at one of our locations for a children’s story time, a craft program, Silent Book Club, plant swap, a Memory Cafe serving those with dementia, or anything else, we strive to be welcoming to all.
While those of us who plan and host events might be familiar faces to library users, many more staff members work in the background to make our events successful. Read on for a peek behind the curtain to see what goes into the creation of a DBRL program.
It all starts with an idea, either from staff or a member of the public. Anyone can propose a library program. DBRL managers will evaluate the proposal to make sure it fits our mission, that we have enough resources for it, whether it’s likely to be of interest to our community and other factors. Once a program is given the green light, a multi-department effort begins to make it a reality.
Usually, an employee from Public Services serves as host and coordinates the effort. This is the person you see when you come to the event. They handle details such as finding a workable time, reserving a room and gathering any needed supplies. Our room reservation system is supervised by folks in the Administration office. Our excellent Public Relations staff creates promotions on our website, social media pages and in the “At Your Library” program guide, as well as printing flyers and signs. Event attendees often enjoy coffee, soft drinks and snacks supplied by our Circulation staff, the same ones who run the coffee kiosk in our Columbia building.
Our IT squad provides whatever electronic equipment is needed, anything from microphones to laptops, and provides tech support. And our hard-working Buildings and Grounds people come in before and after an event to set up and break down, ensuring all of the furniture is in the correct places.
It truly takes a village to raise a library program. Fortunately, we have one. And we’re all working toward the same mission of serving our community. Check out our upcoming events to see what the village will be offering in the near future.
