Public service announcements to help libraries promote ALA President Roberta Stevens’ “Our Authors, Our Advocates” national library advocacy public awareness campaign were unveiled today during the ALA Midwinter Meeting in San Diego. Library advocates can now download audio and video PSAs from such best-selling authors as Sharon Draper, Brad Meltzer, Sara Paretsky, and Scott Turow. The website also offers statistics and customizable English and Spanish PSA scripts to assist advocates with making the case for libraries.
Through “Our Authors, Our Advocates,” authors are lending their support for libraries through media interviews, podcasts, public service announcements, and other marketing materials. The materials are free and are available to ALA membership for use at the local level to assist with advocacy efforts.
“Authors understand the key roles libraries play and are natural allies in these challenging times,” Stevens said. “‘Our Authors, Our Advocates’ highlights well-known and passionate authors that will speak out on the value of and importance of sustaining library service.”
Participating authors taped 15-, 20-, and 30-second video PSAs on such issues as library funding, libraries’ support of literacy, the value of libraries, and much more. Authors also shared personal stories about their love for libraries.
“Our Authors, Our Advocates” is one of two presidential initiatives launching during ALA’s Midwinter Meeting. The other, “Why I Need My Library,” encourages teens ages 13–18 to create original videos on why they think libraries are needed now more than ever.
