Introducing Ourselves to New Legislators

Successful advocacy work starts well before the day we come to the State House and pin ribbons on library supporters. This is true for every legislator, every year. In the case of new legislators, we want to make sure that they know us, the libraries in their district, and the users of those libraries. And we want them to immediately think of the value we provide their constituents at home when they hear the words "public libraries."

If possible, make face-to-face contact in the home county. Follow up by sending a personal letter of welcome/thanks with library newsletter and/or brag sheet. As we are taking photos this year, we have a great opportunity to make this contact early with every legislator.

Messages:

1. For librarians and citizens that use the library often, the link between public libraries and education is obvious. However, we often need to make this link explicitly for legislators, and repeatedly. This is particularly important in light of legislative requests targeting SC Educatonal Lottery funding.

2. The increased use of libraries in poor economic conditions is also an important message to convey, as legislators must weigh the choices they face in dealing with budget shortfalls. Public libraries provide a safety net for communities that are hard hit by economic woes, providing free books, programs, and computer access. Many families have tightened their spending in these areas, knowing that their public libraries can provide them.

3. Public Libraries have great economic impact on local communities. A 2005 University of South Carolina study showed that for every dollar invested,  the return is $4.48. That's almost 350%!