Sunday, December 6, 2009

Adult Programming: Where to Start?

If you are like me, deciding what to do next after the book club is a major issue. Since we are talking libraries here it seems that the best place to start is with the books we have on our shelves (or can borrow from other libraries).

Some that I have found helpful are:

Why Adults Use the Public Library: A Research Perspective by Maurice P. Marchant

This is a great book to learn how adults use the library and the motivating factors behind their library usage. The findings could be used to determine avenues for future programming events or to perform a similar study of library use at one's own library.


Programming for Adults: A Guide for Small and Medium Sized Libraries by Raymond Ranier

This book takes the reader through the process of creating programs for adult patrons. It discusses designs, budgets, and marketing the programs. Types of programs discussed include educational programs, cultural programs, crafts, and book clubs.

Long Overdue: A Fresh Look at Public and Leadership Attitudes About Libraries in the 21st Century prepared by Public Agenda

The findings discussed are from a telephone survey conducted March 2006. In attempting to provide relevant adult programming events it is important to understand the public perception of the library. This report will give you some ideas on how the patrons see the library, knowing this can help you determine what you want to achieve by offering adult programming.

5-Star Programming and Services for Your 55+ Library Customers by Barbara T. Mates

As the baby boom generation ages this age group will become one of your largest participants at library programs. This book will help you understand who is in this group, what their special needs might be and how you might fashion your programs to appeal to them. Chapters include programming ideas, outreach services, marketing, and funding.

Adult Programs in the Library by Brett W. Lear

This book show that there is much more to programming than leading a book discussion or hiring a speaker. It details an in-depth process that starts with determining how programming will fit your library's mission, developing the necessary procedures, administration, and funding, before even beginning to choose a topic or audience. Then there is format, publicity, production and evaluation, oh my! This is a must read for anyone who wants to develop a serious healthy programming module for their library.

Cultural Programming for Libraries: Linking Libraries, Communities & Culture by Deborah A. Robertson

This book deals with moving beyond the generic book discussions into 'live' programming. This offers a way for local talent to showcase their arts and for the community to have new experiences. It explains how to find and present performances and exhibits while increasing your community's awareness of its library.

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