Keep Reminding People of Your Economic Value

Turns out I'm not the only one who's been thinking of ways to "spin your value." I found this little gem over on the I Love Libraries site.

Christine Ayar writes, "I couldn't help but think of all the ways libraries can help their communities and actually increase patronage during tough times through the 'free' services we offer." And she goes on to list 9 things libraries already do that can help people through these tough economic times in the U.S. You just need to remind people of what you have and spin it to show them the benefits. (a la WIIFM: "what's in it for me?")

For instance, there's #7:

Be a well-informed investor. The library has up-to-date stock market information that will help you get through tough times. Make smarter investment decisions with the most current financial information.

Don't wait until your municipality is running out of money and puts your library's budget on the chopping block. Then you'll be playing catch-up. Keep your value and ROI on customers' minds now so they'll fight for you when it counts.