At the Utah Library Association Conference 2009, we had a session, “Rural Library Reach-out.”

Attendees sat at a table, ate good food, and talked about the rural library of the future. Here’s what we said:

What we need to do now to move into the future:

Rural libraries need to take steps to increase community awareness and use of library. Programming and marketing suggestions included:

• Host Book clubs
• Sponsor “Reader’s Choice”
• Invite Elementary & preschoolers for tours of the library
• Host classes from the schools or visit classrooms for book talks
• Place notices on bulletin boards – advertising
• Send librarians out into the community to network
• Home delivery of materials or books by mail
• Partner with teachers to incorporate curriculum into the collection and vice versa
• Attend town council meetings
• Host a Spanish language story time
• Offer computer classes
• Solicit help from teens to maintain library blogs
• Create a business center with faxes, copiers, and scanners

Technology played a large role in the conversation. Technology was viewed as a necessity, a burden, and a tool. Technology is a key element of what rural libraries see as their future. Patrons are approaching the library as a location for their computer and business needs. Libraries want to use technology for their public relations, marketing, and services. The future of libraries is intrinsically tied to technology and therefore a necessity when contemplating what is ahead.

A number of burdens are associated with the increase in patron’s demand for computers. A common complaint was an issue of space. Many rural libraries have limited space for computers and limited access to adequate network systems. The challenge of space impacts weeding and collection development. Another concern was staff’s familiarity with commonly used programs and tools. Participants discussed the value of a number of technological tools that are available today, such as, YouTube, Flickr, audio books, Facebook, MySpace, Pioneer, and online databases. It was suggested that rural librarians and staff pursue training opportunities at the USL. A 23 things training was also mentioned as a fun and educational way to increase staff’s familiarity with social networking tools and popular technology.

Technology can help break down the barriers of distance and access for rural libraries. It is a tool for outreach, marketing, and research. The participants in the discussion want to open the door to the possibilities. The general attitude was of optimism and excitement. What is the future, five, ten, or twenty years from now for rural libraries? What we are doing now to cultivate our relationship with the community is the foundation for that future. Outreach and technology are both integral parts of the journey.

Thanks go to Robin Chalhoub for writing up these comments from attendees.