RAILS is inviting all Illinois libraries to participate in a new social media challenge. Show your support for libraries and library advocacy by building something inspiring and posting it on social media. By acting collectively, we can bring more attention to the need for proper library funding in Illinois and beyond! Here’s how to participate:

1. Build something using books!

Four members of the My Library Is… Advisory Team will share their library stories in this panel presentation. Representing school and public libraries, the panelists will discuss how their libraries have engaged their patrons, educated their stakeholders, and expanded the reach and value of the library to their communities. A short Q&A will follow.

Panelists:

As March marches in, I can't help but think where I was a year ago--give or take a week.  As I reflect upon the bustling school library I left, and the one I am currently in, I have to work hard to conjure up what was.  Pandemically speaking, I (and dare I say many of my school librarian colleagues) have had to reinvent themselves and their methods very quickly. Creating virtual libraries and displays, engaging book talks, collaboratively creating protocols for curbside checkout and seamless returns have all been a part of this year long journey.  

As part of the My Library Is… campaign, RAILS and AISLE are teaming up to offer up to ten $1,000 grants to help school libraries promote their value. My Library Is... Grants for School Libraries are designed to help libraries tell their stories in a more coordinated and impactful way.

RAILS and AISLE are inviting creative approaches that emphasize some aspect of marketing, promotion, storytelling, and/or advocacy. Examples could include (but not are limited to):