Susanne Kimball

9 Community Engagement Ideas for Public Libraries During COVID-19

This year has been challenging for public libraries and communities. Libraries were tasked with managing shutdowns while recreating their programming and services for an online space. Fortunately, libraries were well-equipped to manage the changes and meet community needs. Communities need their libraries more than ever. Public libraries are essential during these challenging times. Are you looking for ways your library can expand community engagement?  Here is a shortlist of ideas to enhance public library community engagement.

#1. Amplify Curbside Services

Many public libraries are offering curbside pick-up services as a way to continue book loaning service. Patrons can use their library account to reserve books and follow their library’s curbside pick-up guidelines once the hold has arrived. And to replace in-person browsing, some libraries will select books for you or your child based on age, interest, and topic of choice. 

Curbside isn’t just for books. Libraries are offering curbside office services like printing, copying, faxing, laptop lending, and mobile hotspot check-outs. 

It’s also a great way to offer other materials the library offers – like children’s crafts or DVDs. Some libraries are pre-packing children’s crafts and activities that would normally be offered during a program and making them available for pick-up. Others are circulating DVDs by creating themed movie night packs that include DVDs and popcorn. 

Take the opportunity to cross-promote your library’s other services each time a patron picks up an item from your library. Create hand-outs that outline your services and include a calendar of online events. For example, if a parent picks up a themed book bundle, be sure to include information about early literacy take-home kits, or information about virtual storytimes. Curbside service is a top pick for many locations that want to enhance public library community engagement.

#2. Boost Online Programming

Prior to the pandemic, libraries offered a variety of in-person classes ranging from baby and me playtime, yoga classes, exercise classes, gardening tutorials, author events, or music classes. Many of these can be recreated for the virtual format. The class teacher can host a live program using Facebook Live or Zoom, and post the recording to the library’s YouTube page so patrons can participate at any time. 

To boost your online programming options, ask yourself these questions to generate new ideas or think of ways to recreate patron favorites for the digital space. 

• What programs have been the most popular in the past?
• How can these be adapted for the online space?
• Can you invite yoga teachers to host online classes?
• What are some new concerns your community members might have right now? How can you best help them with these? Some examples are filing for unemployment or online job search. 
• How can you collaborate with other community groups to cross-promote your services? 

Ideas for popular virtual programs include:

• Toddler/preschool storytime 
• Toddler/preschool music class
• Storytime dance parties
• Baby playtime 
• Simple at-home STEM experiments
• Teen and adult book clubs
• Teen trivia night
• Self-care courses led by mental health professionals
• DIY face mask tutorial 
• DIY gardening
• Local artist performances
• Keep kids safe online courses
• How to identify and combat misinformation courses

Virtual programming can be combined with curbside pick-up packets to replicate the library experience as much as possible. For example, baby playtime is beneficial because babies can interact in person with other babies and adults. And it’s beneficial for the parents, too, as the library teacher provides gentle instruction on activities to facilitate brain growth. So in this scenario, the library would package materials for parents to pick up then they can tune into the virtual library instruction. Librarians can complement virtual programming with circulating early literacy materials, math games, book bundles, themed take-and-make-kits, and also create visual boards with activities for people to do at home.

#3. Expand Digital Content

As part of the online programming efforts, libraries are letting patrons know the digital content available to them.  Here are a few ideas. 

• Promote digital content available to patrons with their library card. For example, apps or websites they can access with their cards like language learning sites, genealogy sites, and library databases. 
• Provide library card sign-ups for access to remote resources.
• Provide references services via email, phone, and chat.

#4. Create Curated Content for Patrons

Think about your patrons' current needs. The library has the information and resources, so how can you package that material into something easily accessible? Librarians have so much knowledge about what the library has available for patron use, so simply finding it and presenting it together is immensely helpful for the community. Curated content is certainly a way to enhance public library community engagement because it shows that your library is listening. 

Some examples of types of content in which patrons are interested: 

• Articles, podcasts, or other pieces of information about creating an engaging home learning space, ways to help kids with online learning, and the like. 
• Books, stories, and articles about building resilience and getting through hard times.  
• Information about dealing with stress, anxiety, and depression and resources to seek help. 
• Articles and resources for job seekers and those looking to learn a new skill.
• Literature about the history of viruses or something with an interesting scientific angle. 
• Easy read novels that provide a constructive way to manage stress and mental break. 
• Hand-picked children’s books to help them understand and overcome difficult times. 
• Books and resources about home learning for preschool children, since many parents may be doing more child care if group care is unavailable. 

#5. Recreate Physical Spaces and Services for Digital

Prior to shutdowns, libraries offered free meeting spaces for individual and group use. A remote worker could use the space to work, or a group of workers, volunteers, or anyone who needed to gather could use a meeting room. Some rooms were equipped with AV technology for presentations. So now since patrons can’t use the library in this way, some libraries are adapting the meeting rooms online using Zoom. Patrons can reserve a room for a certain amount of time in the same way they would for in-person use. In addition, libraries can make office services like printing, faxing, and copying available with curbside pick-up. And laptops and hotspots can be available for check out with a library card. 

#6. Bridge the Digital Divide

Libraries have long been at the forefront of the efforts to bridge the digital divide. Their accessible-to-all technology and free WiFi are a mainstay for many patrons, many of whom rely on the library as their primary source of internet. Now in the coronavirus times, access to the internet is even more critical. Here are some ways to continue the effort toward digital equality and enhance your public library community engagement. 

• Keep the library WiFi on 24/7 (per ALA recommendation).
• Promote that your free WiFi service is available and explain how patrons can use it. 
• Leave instructions on how to connect to the WiFi in the windows or signs visible outside.
• Purchase wireless hotspots for library staff who don’t have access at home and patrons to check out. 
• Miss your library regulars? Reach out via phone or email and encourage them to connect with you on social media.
• Think about other places in the community where you can promote your free WiFi and other library services (schools, homeless shelters, women’s shelters, crisis centers, community centers, health clinics.) 
• Include information about technology and WiFi services in all other materials and online (your website, social media, curbside checkouts.) 

#7. Help With Internet Skills

Use web recording tools like Loom or Zoom to record tutorials on how to apply for unemployment, order online groceries, or other internet tasks that many people may be unfamiliar with. Providing these services and help is something library staff would ordinarily do in person, using the library’s computers, but now patrons are at home. 

#8. Communicate that the library is an essential service

• Determine how the library can promote remote services best to your community.
• Use alternative methods to promote these services to patrons who aren’t already connected. If someone doesn’t have access to the internet at home, it’ll be difficult for online communications to be received. So work with community groups to help get the word out about free library WiFi, hot spot loans, loaning technology, and whatever other services you’re offering. Or even post signs in the library windows. 
• Reach out to your local news outlets to have your library featured.

#9. Librarian professional development

• Seek out and participate in professional development. Some librarians are learning a new skill, such as video editing, which can be useful now and in the future.
• Librarians can also connect with colleagues through association groups, connect with other community leaders, support legislative advocacy, and share what’s working for your libraries with other locations. 
• Consider submitting a blog or article to an industry publication to share your ideas, insights, and experiences. 

WhoFi helps real-world spaces understand and engage with their patrons within the building and beyond. Would you like to learn more about how WhoFi partners with public libraries? Schedule a demo today.

by Susanne Kimball

Navigating the Changing Landscape of Public Library Programming During COVID-19

Libraries across the country are stepping up in a time of crisis. As we continue to adapt to this new (ab)normal reality, libraries shift their programming model to reach beyond their physical buildings and provide essential services for their communities. How are librarians navigating the changing landscape of public library programming during COVID-19?

Innovation during times of crisis can lead to lasting positive change for public library programming.

Librarians are innovating new ways to stay connected and serve the community by adapting in-person programming to outdoor events, curbside projects, or online programs. Using a mix of social media platforms, such as Facebook (live and stories), Instagram, Zoom, and YouTube, public libraries are able to provide a wide range of programming. 

Community programs like children’s storytime, summer camps, and craft time have moved online for socially distanced access. Instead of in-person interaction, librarians are reading books, demonstrating crafts, or leading tutorials online. Other library services have changed too. Pre-COVID we could enjoy the library space as just a place to go and be in an enriching environment, whether there was a planned program or drop-in visit. Often parents would leave with a few books the kids selected, or a craft that the children’s librarians lovingly prepared. 

Now, that thoughtfulness and care continue, just in a socially distanced way. Parents can request a book bundle for grab-and-go or curbside pick-up, specially selected by local librarians based on your child’s age and interest. Take-home craft projects can be picked up grab-and-go style or curbside pick-up. Librarians are recording themselves teaching parents how to recreate the library children’s programming from their own homes.

We’re all finding ways to stay connected while being physically apart. And the result has been positive. 

The demand for digital content has soared since the pandemic began. More patrons are attending online programming. The feedback has been good and these services will likely stick around to make the library more accessible to more people.

Public libraries provide essential services in a time of uncertainty. 

One of the key missions of public libraries is to provide services to all communities, regardless of background or socioeconomic status. 

All are welcome here. 

During times of crisis and upheaval, the community relies on the library even more. The need for information and digital access are even greater. Americans already consider libraries essential to communities. People see libraries as a safe space, a source of educational opportunity, a source of trusted information, as well as a place to ignite creativity and curiosity in youth. 

A recent report from NPR states that since shutdowns began in March, the use of library services increased dramatically. Digital book loans have skyrocketed particularly children’s e-books. Many libraries made online library card applications available and expanded access to e-books, databases, and e-resources. Since buildings were closed to the public, libraries extended their WiFi signals and offered ‘drive-up’ WiFi so patrons can still use their internet from a safe, socially distanced space. 

Many people in communities turn to the library for guidance and help with online tasks that they’re unfamiliar with, or need to borrow the library computer and internet connection to complete. Things like filing for unemployment, seeking government services, applying for a job, and basic internet skills are all areas in which a librarian would otherwise help a patron in person. Now, librarians are using web recording tools to record tutorials or talking patrons through the process via the phone. Library staff will do whatever it takes to help people. 

Libraries offer a sense of normalcy in abnormal times.

When COVID forced libraries to close, library staff knew they wanted to establish a positive digital space for people to gather and continue to enjoy the programs they love. For many individuals and families, the library was part of their regular routine. So having a continuation of this in some way is beneficial. The public library programming during COVID-19 has been effective because people can still benefit from the community the library provides even while spending more time at home. Based on our discussions with library partners and observation, these library adaptations have been successful in meeting the community's needs, providing a much-needed mainstay in these uncertain times. 

WhoFi helps real-world spaces understand and engage with their patrons within the building and beyond. Would you like to learn more about how WhoFi partners with public libraries? Schedule a demo today. 

by Susanne Kimball

Libraries Can Improve Patron Experience By Expanding Digital Services Using E-Rate Funding

According to FCC reports, 24 million people in the U.S. lack broadband internet access. In the coronavirus times, the need for internet access is more important than ever. So how can libraries maximize their resources to improve the patron experience? The FCC’s E-Rate funding is one solution.

The E-Rate program makes telecommunications and information services more affordable for schools and libraries. The ongoing proliferation of innovative digital learning technologies and the need to connect students, teachers, and workers to jobs, education, social services, and information has led to increased demand for bandwidth. 

COVID-19 and expanding digital services using E-rate funding for libraries

The IMLS is distributing $30 milling in funding to libraries across the U.S. as part of the CARES Act in response to the impact of COVID-19. States will be able to use the funds to expand digital network access, purchase internet accessible devices, and provide technical support services to citizens to address digital inclusion efforts. Rural schools and libraries may also receive more funds to get the internet. It’s worth noting that rural service areas have the highest percentage patron use of library WiFi, according to our national data. 

How can WiFi insights support your library’s need for E-Rate funding? 

Our library partners use WiFi analytics as a way to accurately count WiFi sessions, both for PLS reporting and internal library advocacy.  They’ve also used the insights for program selection and layout changes.  

Now due to COVID-19, libraries are adjusting how they serve patrons.  Many libraries made WiFi accessible 24/7, which was later an official recommendation from the ALA. This was a smart move and allowed our partner libraries to understand how their patrons were using the service. WiFi analytics showed there was continued activity even though libraries were closed to the public. What this told us was that patrons still needed to use the library for WiFi access. But now instead of being inside the building they were sitting outside, in the parking lot, and using after hours. Understanding how and when patrons are using a service is key to making sure libraries are equipped to continue and expand this service. 

What can we learn from WiFi insights in the time of coronavirus? 

Let’s start with what we know. We know that patrons are continuing to use library WiFi services. We know there is an increased demand for internet access since many schools and jobs have moved online. We know that millions of Americans lack sufficient internet at home. And we know that the library is often their primary source of internet. 

According to a Public Library Association (PLA) survey, 98% of respondents reported their buildings were closed to the public but staff continued to expand digital products and launch virtual programs. Creative ideas keep communities connected – like offering “drive-in WiFi”, expanding digital access, moving adult and children’s programming to an online format, and offering all kinds of digital resources. It seems like this will be the norm for the foreseeable future, so libraries need the bandwidth to support the increased patron need and their own programming. This is how E-Rate funding can help libraries improve the patron experience. 

How to apply for E-rate funding for libraries

Applying for E-rate funding can seem complicated, especially if it’s your first experience with the application process. If you’re a public library applying for E-rate funding, here’s what you need to know about the application process. 

Who runs the E-rate funding program? 

According to the FCC website, the E-rate program is administered by the Universal Service Administrative Company under the direction of the FCC. USAC is responsible for processing the applications for support, confirming eligibility, and reimbursing service providers and eligible schools and libraries for the discounted services. USAC also ensures that the applicants and service providers comply with the E-rate rules and procedures established by the Commission.

Where do I fill out the E-rate funding application for my library?

The USAC website has a step-by-step guide to follow. It also outlines the process for applicants and providers so you have a full understanding of how the system works. On the USAC website, there is a ‘Get Started’ web page that details your next steps. You will need to set up an account on the E-rate Productivity Center (EPC) to fill out your application through this application management portal. There are also E-rate consultants that can help you apply for funding such as Funds for Learning that can help guide you through the process as well.

How does a library WiFi strategy help with planning for the post-COVID future?

Creating and implementing systems to meet community needs during a crisis will carry forward in positive ways in the future. Public libraries will be even more well-positioned to lead the way in bridging the digital divide. Libraries will have a game plan for the next crisis and the tools necessary to respond quickly.  Public libraries will continue to provide a valuable and necessary service to everyone by being thought leaders, community advocates, and coming up with creative solutions. 

Want to know more about WiFi insights for your library? Book a demo today!

by Susanne Kimball

Special Report Update: Effects of COVID-19 on Public Library WiFi Use

Early in the coronavirus pandemic, WhoFi released a special report about the effects of COVID-19 on public library WiFi use.  We analyzed library WiFi usage during March – the month that many libraries closed their buildings. This report consisted of consolidated data from our library partners across the U.S. to provide a better understanding of the national response to the COVID-19 outbreak and the effect on public library WiFi use. 

A PLA survey report showed that 98% of libraries closed to the public in March due to COVID-19. However, the WiFi data from our insights showed a national decrease in WiFi usage of only 67%. This shows patrons were accessing the library WiFi in other ways besides actually being in the physical library building. The same PLA survey also noted that 81% of libraries decided to leave their WiFi on and available to the public. Since a high number of libraries left WiFi on, the drop in usage of only 67% makes sense. 

Our data shows that between the first week and last week of March, visitor usage dropped significantly, then leveled. These WiFi usage trends correlated with key dates in the coronavirus timeline. 

In our Special Report Update, we used the same parameters as our initial report: gathering insights from all of our library partners combined to identify national trends, changes based on population size, and if there were any key dates that correlated with changes. Essentially, what has been the public response since the onset of the pandemic, and did library service adaptations seem to affect behavior?

Library WiFi Insights Have Shown Increased Usage Since March

Our data shows that after the initial drop in WiFi usage in March, trends steadied and then began to rise around April 26. In fact, there’s a steady increase in WiFi usage nationwide and across cities and towns of all population sizes. Library efforts to enhance and extend WiFi services, paired with a solid communication plan, seem to have the desired effect of helping patrons stay connected. The total number of visits, however, isn’t as high as it was prior to shut-downs. 

The national WiFi usage rates were down 70% in April from the average of previous months usage rates. By the end of June, the national WiFi usage rates increased 40%. On March 23, the ALA officially recommends libraries leave WiFi on. Our insights show that from March 15 to April 19 library WiFi usage remained about the same across population sizes. A consistent effort by the libraries to promote their continued and extended WiFi services helped communities use the service. Since then, there’s been a consistent increase in usage.

Library Service Area And Patron WiFi Needs

In our first report, we analyzed data by comparing urban and rural service areas to determine if there was a difference in WiFi usage across the population sizes. Our data showed that library WiFi use in urban areas had the greatest decrease, although both urban and rural service areas showed a drop. There are a variety of social, cultural, and economic factors that contribute to these numbers, as we learned from conversations with our library partners. There’s also plenty of national data referencing how the digital divide contributes to this. 

Patrons in rural service areas often rely on the public library as their main source of internet. 

Rural service areas have a higher percentage of the population that uses the library WiFi and showed more stable usage patterns since March. When schools moved to an online learning model for the remainder of the 2019-2020 school year, students needed a reliable source of internet to complete schoolwork. Libraries and school systems come together to bridge the gap and provide critical services for those who need them. The library has been a place for school children to use library computers to complete homework. Now, with library buildings closed, they don’t have access to computers or WiFi. Schools and libraries are working together to loan laptops, provide mobile hotspots, and extend WiFi reach in library parking lots.

Breakdown of WiFi usage rates by service population size

The graph above shows the WiFi usage rates of each population size from March 1 to July 4. The most drastic change in usage rates was in the 100,000-1,000,000 population size group, which still hasn’t regained half of its previous WiFi usage rates. Another interesting metric is the 1-2,500 population size group, which has now regained nearly all of its previous WiFi usage rates. Smaller population areas have also recovered a higher percentage of WiFi use compared with numbers from March. See the graph below.

Timeline of events, key dates, and COVID-19 effects on public library WiFi use

In our initial report, data showed that there was a clear change in WiFi usage between March 11-15, which correlated with national events related to the coronavirus. There have been significant events since that surrounding the increasing number of coronavirus cases and economic impact, see bullets below. However, there isn’t a clear correlation between WiFi usage rates and specific dates. It’s worth noting that as these events unfolded – increased cases and increased unemployment claims – so, too, did public library WiFi usage rates. 

• April 16 Around 5 million more Americans filed for first-time unemployment claims.
• April 18 More than 700,000 people in the United States have tested positive for coronavirus. 
• April 23 Another 4.4 million Americans filed unemployment claims, bringing the total to more than 26 million claims.
• May 17 The number of coronavirus deaths in the United States surpassed 90,000. Confirmed cases in the country also rose to nearly 1.5 million.
• May 21 Another 2.44 million Americans filed for initial unemployment benefits the week before, bringing the total number of people who lost their job so far during the coronavirus pandemic to almost 40 million.
• May 26 The World Health Organization said the Americas had emerged as the new epicenter of the coronavirus pandemic.

Libraries are important to communities, especially in times of crisis.

Even before the coronavirus outbreak, lack of internet access was a big problem. Now, it’s critical. Public libraries are on the front lines of this problem helping patrons stay connected to school, work, family.  They’ve also been important for social services such as filing for unemployment and completing the census which requires a connection to the internet.  The data is clear: WiFi is a valuable resource the libraries offer. Tracking this could prove to be beneficial in future library advocacy efforts. Questions about how to get insights for your library? Schedule a demo with our team.

by Susanne Kimball