libraries as organizing support

[Discussion list for COMM-ORG]

From: mvortkamp at detroitpubliclibrary.org


Hi,
 
I just wanted to let you know about a resource that is usually 
overlooked in organizing - libraries.  Not only self interest (our tax 
base is based on these homes no one is living in) but also care about 
our customers can involve us in the housing crisis.
 
 We are unable to do the political end (like ACORN's walk on Lansing in 
Michigan) but we are great at publicizing helpful information, community 
meetings and new programs.  For example I work in Detroit and we have 25 
locations in many of the neighborhoods you want to reach.  Many of my 
colleagues in libraries across the country are reachable by email, and 
many of us can easily be reached by just looking at our web pages.  Also 
many of my colleagues across the country serve on boards and are members 
in community groups.  Most of us got into the profession to help people 
and we will, in any way we can justify it.
 
Please keep in mind our profession has been hit as hard, if not harder, 
than many other organizations by budget cuts, so you really need to make 
a good case for your cause and let us know how we can be involved within 
our limitations. Also please keep in mind that in some organizations 
there may be a bit of a gap between what the person on the front line 
can and will do and what the people who make the big decisions can and 
will do.  So if you start at the top of a large institution and don't 
get anywhere, you might want to start off a little smaller and try an 
individual neighborhood or branch.
 
If there is anything I can do to help, please let me know.  I'm also 
free to bounce ideas off of, so if you need help in how to best approach 
a library - I'd be glad to hear your plan and give suggestions.
 
Keep up the good work guys- we're rooting for you!
 
Manager & Children's Librarian
Franklin Branch of the Detroit Public Library
13651 E. McNichols
Detroit, MI 48205
(313) 852-4797