“So, where do you work?” a friend of a friend turned to me and asked while a pack of us waited to be served at a local restaurant. “Amongst other side-jobs/ projects, I’ve been working for a local library for a few years now.” I replied. “A library?! I simply cannot imagine you working at a library. It must get very dull, that’s all,” she remarked. Once again, another practically identical reaction amongst many others I had received after mentioning my business. All I can say and did say was, “you’d be surprised!”
After working at the Niles Public Library for about more than three years now, I’ve noticed that with the unbelievable public relations departments that libraries have nowadays, they do not necessarily meet their stereotypes. In correlation to a good many years back when a library was very hush, hush and one could even hear the slightest pin drop on the floor, the library is simply not what it once was. Working as a publicity intern, I’ve noticed that the Niles Public Library’s core goal is to build/maintain great relationships with our community. Our library is typically overflowing with people. I strongly believe that this is due to the strong PR department it has which abides by the symmetrical model of communication. The library is always listening, responding, and adapting to current news/media affairs and popular trends. With suggestion boxes for patrons as well as employees the institution believes that good external as well as internal communication is key. The employees in every department are greatly appreciated and frequently rewarded for their hard work.
At the Niles Public Library, there literally is always something going on and for no expense. In addition to reaching out to the community by newsletters, flyers, and traditional means, the public is informed of current events and news via social-networking, events, blogs, podcasts, emails, and virtual forums as well. Whether it’s the public teaming up to play in the Guitar Hero and Wii game tournaments or getting in line to see wild animals come in from the rescue ranger’s facility, the library is more often than not, completely packed! Our library has various programs such as: juggling, yoga, hair care/styling, theatre, author signings, film, eBay, wedding cake creations, drum/ guitar, singing, dance, you name it! We even have concerts called “Loud at the Library,” where bands come and play. With Teen Idol performances, Oscar nights, YouTube contests/battles of the bands, international fests, tough real estate market programs, computer classes, effective job strategy courses, trouble economy series, saving/coupon programs, the library keeps up-to-date with current media trends and the important issues at hand. With the latest new movies, CD’s, magazines, books, full internet access and all sorts of other perks, the Niles Public Library is a place which the public cannot resist.
And for those who treasure the traditional library, have no fear! Ah yes, the other genre of individuals who cherish the classic library’s overwhelmingly solemn silence with but the murmurs of countless books anxiously waiting to share their knowledge with them. Just because there may be some more boisterous eventful areas of the library, one can always find a peaceful quiet corner or occupy a study room. So, to those who are looking for a piece of action, as well as those who seek a calm escape; I invite all patrons to please check out our website and/or monthly newsletter to get the scoop on our latest events coming up. And to my dear friends and acquaintances in question, I hope this article will serve as an eye-opener, so please come visit us as well as spread the word about this great institution.
