Libraries?—Yes, In My Backyard!

ABSTRACT

What is the element most people want in their residential area? Hospitals? Schools? Parks? If you answered any of those you would be incorrect. Libraries, according to one survey, are the most attractive amenity in residential areas. Libraries are so popular, they garnered as high a desirability rating as grocery stores and drug stores. However, despite the overwhelming support for the institution, libraries are often not able to translate this popularity into successful building campaigns. The article begins by examining the immense popularity of libraries and asks why there are not more libraries in light of their universal appeal. Difficulties encountered when mounting library elections are discussed. A recommendation to expand library advocacy by librarians and library supporters is offered, in the hopes more people's desire to live near a library could be realized.

KEYWORDS:

• Building campaigns
• public libraries
• public relations of libraries
• library advocacy
• library legislation and political support

Nancy Kalikow Maxwell is Library Director at Miami Dade College North Campus Library, Miami, FL 33167 and the author of Sacred Stacks: The Higher Purpose of Libraries and Librarianship (American Library Association, 2006). (E-mail: [email protected]).