I’ve worked in higher education since 1994, so my “new” gig at the public library is somewhat unsettling for me.  I knew what to do at the universities at which I worked…who to contact, where to go for help, etc.  It was an environment with which I was very familiar.  The public library is a new world for me.

Part of the issue at my new job is learning about the branch’s patrons.  Who they are.  What they like.  What they want.  What they need.  Etc.  It’s been difficult determining what programs will bring in participants.

So, I’ve got two programs in the planning stages.  Both of them have been done at other branches, but I figure this will at least get me started in learning the logistics (e.g., who to contact, publicity avenues, etc.).  One is a Historic Haunts program.  I’ve reached out to the Hopewell Valley Historical Society, and they are co-sponsoring the program with the branch, which is nice — both financially and for outreach purposes.  The second is an Electric Guitar Building program.  Supposedly, music-focused programs have not done well at the branch, so I’ve got to put some extra outreach efforts in.   I’m thinking I’ll look into the local high school’s curriculum for music courses, as well as local organizations that have an interest in music.

All I can do is start somewhere, learn what I can, and move on from there.