One of our initiatives this year is supporting the Pima County Public Library’s Outreach Program. We recently had a chance to talk about the program with Alina Rowe, Library Services Manager, Community Engagement Office.
Alina, what becomes possible when the library goes beyond its walls and meets people where they are?
We build community, we build strong partnerships, our work helps communities see the library as a trusted entity.
What might a child remember from an encounter with the library at a community event?
How we made them feel, the fun they had, the free stuff! How can a book, STEM activity, or conversation spark a new possibility for someone? Our STEM activities and frequent conversations we have spark wonder and curiosity! Our hope is they leave inspired and spread the word that the library is cool!
What stories of connection have emerged from the library’s outreach efforts?
At the San Xavier District STEM Nights, children and their families joyfully take books to build their home libraries and enjoy printing their own 3D figurines with our 3D printers. They seek us out when we attend these nights. We recently had a table at the Mexican Consulate’s “El Grito” event where we handed out information about the library’s programs, resources, and upcoming events. We also shared library promotional items and people coming to the Consulate’s program were so happy to receive all the library incentives and promised to come to a library to get a card soon. Many did not know about all the things the library offers for free. Our Many Nations team tabled at an event up at Kitt Peak where Indigenous families from the surrounding Nations came up for a free family night. The team shared an activity where kids and their families could plant a seed to grow their own sunflower. We also distributed books from our Spread the Wealth program. Families were happy to receive these items and many commented they didn’t know we had seeds at the library.
What does donor support make possible that otherwise might not happen?
Our outreach supplies, vehicles, and books are essential in making sure we have the tools necessary to run successful outreach programs.
Can you share a moment when you saw the program make a difference for someone?
Our Many Nations team presented a Lippy workshop at a Young Woman’s Retreat in the San Xavier District where tween and teen girls were shown how to make their own lip balms and salves with natural ingredients. The girls seemed happy make these items and wanted to learn more about making their own make up and natural moisturizers. They were very responsive and asking if these types of programs were available at the libraries. Some wished that their community had a library close by.
What is one thing you wish more people knew about the library’s outreach work?
I wish more people knew that we are more than books and a building. We build connections, we build community, we aim to be inclusive in our programs and bridging gaps by bringing the library to underserved communities is our goal!
