Many factors can contribute to diminished engagement with library users (e.g., post-pandemic recovery, temporarily reduced reference services, or a staffing shortage). A passive outreach activity that is appealing, small, relatively simple to set up, and can run itself will aid in increasing engagement with library users.

We’ll explore an example of a passive outreach program, “Ducks in the Library!”, as implemented in an academic law library. This outreach activity created low-stakes reference engagement with students who may not be familiar with the library staff or the services offered by the library. It was executed without straining library staff with additional duties once the program began. The combination of SpringShare and Google Suite software applications allowed for a streamlined submission process. Additionally, quantifiable data was collected including information about initial and continual patron engagement and usage of the physical library space.

We aim to include additional examples of passive programming from government law libraries. The core elements for mitigating staff workload, ensuring smooth execution, user satisfaction, and collection of participation statistics depend on evaluating the gaps in library engagement as well as lesser known library resources.

Attendees will participate in polls evaluating the current outreach being enacted, the type of library setting, the amount of staff dedicated to outreach, and any concerns currently facing their library. Attendees will also have the opportunity to participate in passive outreach by scanning and submitting a sample Duck Finding Google Form. The presentation will include the opportunity to see the use of SpringShare applications to disseminate instructions about the outreach activity. Lastly, attendees will identify their own library services and resources for future passive outreach opportunities.

TARGET AUDIENCE:

Librarians interested in outreach initiatives in academic, government, law firm, or corporate environments with a wide variety of staffing levels.

TAKEAWAYS:

1. Participants will be able to evaluate essential elements needed for preparing and implementing a passive outreach initiative.
2. Participants will be able to identify gaps in patron engagement and through passive outreach, highlight library services and resources. 
3. Participants will be able to compile and analyze statistical data obtained from outreach initiatives by using Google Suite applications.

SPEAKERS:

• Veronica Hart, The Catholic University of America
• Laura Moorer, DC Court of Appeals

COORDINATOR/SPEAKER:

• Melissa Kreiling, The Catholic University of America

AALL BODY OF KNOWLEDGE DOMAINS: Marketing + Outreach

CANCELLATION AND OTHER POLICIES:

No refunds will be given for any purchased AALL conference recording. This applies to non-AALL members only as the recordings are free for AALL members.

The opinions shared during this program represent the views of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect those of the American Association of Law Libraries (AALL). Recording, capturing, or using AI tools to duplicate, transcribe, or otherwise reproduce an AALL program in any form is strictly prohibited without prior written consent from AALL. This includes, but is not limited to audio, video, or any other content shared. By accessing an AALL recording, you agree to adhere to this policy.