Programming with Intentionality

Submitted by Cleo Joyce

As FCPL returns to in-branch programming, staff are using this as an opportunity to look closely at the programming we’re offering at each branch and to be intentional about the type and number of programs we’re offering system-wide. We’ll be focusing on ensuring library programming aligns with FCPL’s mission and vision as well as the Library Programs Policy which states, “Programming should be educational, cultural, or informational, supporting the library’s mission to champion literacy, lifelong learning, and personalized services to all patrons.”

As a part of this initiative, Information Services (IS) and Youth Services (YS) staff will be looking at the goals and outcomes of a program as part of the greater planning process. With each program, staff will be setting intentional goals for that program and planning to ensure those goals are met. This includes everything from the number of attendees they’d like to have at a program to the outcomes staff would like to see for patrons. What’s an outcome? “An outcome is a specific benefit that results from a library program or service designed to help patrons change their knowledge, skills, attitudes, behavior, or awareness.” (from Project Outcome) While a program may have many outcomes, some examples of potential outcomes include learning something new, increasing confidence, changing behavior, or increased awareness of an issue or topic.  Outcomes can range from showing parents how to read books to their infant to teaching adult patrons English language vocabulary that will empower them to confidently order food at a restaurant.

Why now and why this change? This is actually not a big change from what FCPL was already doing with many of our programs! We have always strived to offer educational, cultural, and informational programs. This change is simply formalizing what staff were already doing. By being intentional and thinking about goals and outcomes during the planning process, staff can ensure programs are impactful to our community and we are championing literacy and lifelong learning. Articulating outcomes and goals also lets the library tell our story in the community, demonstrating the impact library programs can have. Now is the perfect time to be looking at this as in many ways we are starting programs fresh after over a year of focusing on virtual programming. As the new Programming Manager, I am also working on a new program approval process which will include articulating outcomes before a program is approved.  

Over the coming months, the IS and YS staff will work with their branch supervisors to set goals and outcomes for programs, to be intentional about the type and number of programs each branch is offering, and to measure the impact of those programs. While this is not a big change, supervisors do recognize programming with intentionality will be a mindset shift and will add extra components in the program planning process. It is our goal to make this as easy and seamless as possible. All IS and YS staff will receive training on program outcomes and have the opportunity to ask questions. There will also be a system-wide programming survey sent out this month where staff can give feedback on programming at FCPL.

Staff who plan library programs have had to adapt a lot this past year, but through it all FCPL staff have continued to provide exceptional programming for our patrons. By being intentional with our programs, the library can continue to offer educational, interesting, fun, and impactful programs for the entire Forsyth County community.

If you have questions, please speak with the Information Services Supervisor, Youth Services Supervisor, or Branch Manager at your branch. The Programming Manager is also always available for questions for HQ staff or any staff that have questions about programming at FCPL.