National Library Legislative Day

Re: National Library Legislative Day

2008-05-16T17:01:08Z

One of our state legislators gave us the same advice, so we now mostly skip the "Legislative Day in Springfield" bus trip.

We invite them to a summer-time barbecue instead and the library board appoints one of its members as a "legislative liaison."

Re: National Library Legislative Day

2008-05-14T20:35:13Z

That's a really good point. I've heard this from politicians (and not just in a library context) that one powerful thing citizens can do is to establish some kind of relationship with elected officials _before_ you actually go pound on them for something ;-)

Message was edited by:
timking

Re: National Library Legislative Day

2008-05-12T18:29:40Z

We've got a trustee there right now.

One shouldn't forget, however, to make sure you contact your legislators at home and establish a dialog. Catching someone in DC is nice, but it's a one time thing.

Re: National Library Legislative Day

2008-05-12T17:25:37Z

I think I've already posted this somewhere else, but here's a message from FOLUSA about their Virtual March on Washington:

FOLUSAs 6th Annual Virtual March on Washington May 12-16, 2008
Since 2003 FOLUSA has annually sponsored a Virtual March on Washington in conjunction with National Library Legislative Day. Now in our 6th year, FOLUSA welcomes the Association for Library Trutees and Advocates (ALTA) as a co-sponsor.

Every spring the American Library Association sponsors Library Legislative Day in Washington, DC -- a time for librarians and library advocates to learn more about the issues facing libraries and to visit their Congressional delegations to talk about their concerns. On this day, hundreds of librarians (and a handful of Friends and Trustees) will make their way to Washington D.C. to visit with their senators and representatives to discuss library issues.

Ok, so the trip to Washington isnt in your budget? No problem! FOLUSA sponsors a virtual trip to Washington to expand the reach and impact of National Library Legislative Day. As important as it is for librarians to go to Washington, it is equally important for those who cannot go to make their voices heard - even if virtually. Making advocacy an ongoing effort in your community is key to longterm support of libraries.

New this year! Download a reproducible flyer and bookmarks featuring a quote from Paula Poundstone to copy and distribute in your community to promote the Virtual March. Both are attached and can also be found at:

http://www.folusa.org/advocacy/virtual-march.php

Here you'll also find information about a new $250 award to one Friends group in recognition of promoting the Virtual March.

Beth Nawalinski
Marketing & Public Relations Coordinator
Friends of Libraries U.S.A.

National Library Legislative Day

2008-05-02T20:56:57Z

On May 13 & 14, join your fellow "library lovers" and participate in advocacy and issue training sessions. Interact with Capitol Hill insiders while you lobby Congressional member offices to pass library-supporting legislation. Read how to [url http://blog.webjunctionworks.org/index.php/2008/04/17/library-legislative-day-what-to-know-before-you-participate/]prepare[/url] and
share your experiences, tips, and other information about Library Legislative Day happenings.