F12: Protecting the Library Brand

Abstract

Is the "library" brand in trouble? Maybe not in Canada, but it is elsewhere. Publicly funded Idea Stores in the United Kingdom proudly proclaim that they are "more than just a library." In addition to traditional library service, they offer a wide range of adult education classes, career and education resource centres, technology training, meeting areas, cafes, exhibits, and leisure activities. In parts of the UK, it appears inconceivable that a library could offer such services. Why? And how can we prevent our Canadian library brand from being narrowly defined?

Using actual libraries in Great Britain and the United States as examples, this session outlines how some libraries have failed to protect our powerful brand and what Canadian libraries must do to protect this brand. Ken will stress the three "Cs" – collaboration, communication, and community – as key ingredients to success.