Podcast Episode: Libraries in the Age of Social Distancing 06.10.20 Keeping public spaces functional and clean has never been more important. What are the space design and facility maintenance considerations for libraries, pandemic and beyond?
Smartphone Video Recording: Tips for the Best Shots 03.25.20 Smartphone video recording can be a powerful tool for producing content. These tips can help you maximize your device's potential and your budget.
Good Design Matters: What Makes a Good Logo? 03.12.20 A logo must communicate a great deal about an organization in the micro-second a consumer will give it. Talk about pressure! So, what makes a logo “good”?
Takeaways from the Public Library Association Conference 2020 03.09.20 Our key takeaways from PLA 2020's fabulous keynotes, thoughtful discussions on accessibility, and innovative ideas for building thriving communities.
Podcast Episode: The Whys and Why Nots of Focus Groups 02.26.20 What is a focus group? What is it not? What can you expect to learn in this type of community conversation? This episode of Advancing America's Libraries Podcast is co-hosted by library consultants Pam Fitzgerald and Julia Prince with Ivy Group colleague Ellen Roberson.
Podcast Episode: Advice for New Library Directors 01.15.20 New library directors take note: those first few months are all about listening and learning. Focus on your staff, your trustees, and the community, and you’ll be golden.
Podcast Episode: Build a Better Board 12.06.19 Constructing a strong board is all about recruitment, composition, and management. Ready to find the right advocates for your library?
How to Write an RFP for Library Strategic Planning 10.01.19 Why hire a strategic planning consultant instead of going it alone? RFP do's and don'ts for a smooth process that results in finding the right consultant for your library.
Podcast Episode: Assemble an Effective Strategic Planning Committee 09.04.19 Who should be on a library strategic planning committee? How to manage committee politics? What is the committee's role before, during, and after the plan is developed?
Deflating the Hierarchy. Pumping up the Flat. 08.26.19 Top-down versus participatory library leadership as the profession embraces innovation and customer-centrism.
Podcast Episode: Pass a Millage Increase 08.07.19 Lisa Hoenig, Director of the Ypsilanti District Library, provides useful direction and insights for libraries working to raise operational funds especially in communities that were hard hit by the downturn in the economy.
Who’s Comparing? Benchmarking Library Performance 07.23.18 Benchmarking is a comparison of performance measures between similar entities against recognized standards. Library benchmarks are typically comparisons of numerical statistics such as circulation, visits, …
Prefab vs. Custom Solutions for Social Media Feeds 05.22.18 If your site has social media icons linking to the social platforms, you may be just fine as-is. However, if there is content on your social media platforms that would complement the site’s content, consider adding a new display section to your website.
Good Design Matters: Bad Design Hurts 05.03.18 Good design produces brand recognition and loyalty. It can lead to sales and community integration. But what about bad design?
4 Tips for a Better 404 Error Page 04.10.18 If done well, a 404 page shows your commitment to a positive user experience, retains the user, and puts a smile on their face.