MichiganX: Public Library Marketing and Public Relations

MichiganX: Public Library Marketing and Public Relations

by The University of Michigan

Public Library Management Course

Course Description

Welcome to the exciting world of Public Library Management! This course, part of the Public Library Management Professional Certificate program, is designed to equip you with essential skills in marketing, graphic design, and public relations for modern library management. You'll discover how to effectively communicate your library's value, build stronger relationships with patrons, and maximize your outreach potential, regardless of your budget constraints.

What You'll Learn

  • Distinguishing between marketing, branding, and public relations (PR)
  • Developing cost-effective DIY marketing solutions
  • Collaborating effectively with professional designers
  • Implementing media outreach and PR strategies
  • Crafting engaging social media strategies
  • Creating attractive graphic designs
  • Enhancing public relations outreach with media
  • Utilizing paid marketing techniques
  • Building better conversations and relationships with patrons

Prerequisites

The primary prerequisite for this course is access to a public library. This hands-on approach allows you to immediately apply your learning to real-world scenarios. While no specific prior knowledge is required, a basic understanding of library operations would be beneficial.

Course Content

  • Introduction to library marketing and communication
  • DIY marketing techniques and tools
  • Collaboration with professional graphic designers
  • Social media strategies for libraries
  • Media relations and press engagement
  • Branding fundamentals for public libraries
  • Budget-friendly marketing solutions
  • Patron relationship building through effective communication

Who This Course Is For

  • Current public library staff looking to enhance their marketing and communication skills
  • Aspiring library managers seeking to round out their skill set
  • Library board members interested in improving their institution's outreach
  • Anyone passionate about public libraries and their role in community engagement

Real-World Applications

  • Create eye-catching promotional materials for library events and services
  • Develop a strong social media presence to engage with your community
  • Craft compelling press releases and media pitches to increase library visibility
  • Implement cost-effective marketing strategies to maximize limited budgets
  • Build stronger relationships with patrons through improved communication
  • Collaborate effectively with designers and media professionals
  • Elevate your library's brand and public image

Syllabus

Week 1: Introduction
Week 2: DIY Marketing
Week 3: Working effectively with a graphic designer
Week 4: Social media strategies
Week 5: Working with the press

This course offers a perfect blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills, ensuring you're well-equipped to tackle the marketing and communication challenges of modern public libraries. Don't miss this opportunity to transform your library's outreach and engagement strategies!

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