Online collections offer library patrons a wealth of content that might otherwise be unobtainable or inaccessible, combined with technology that can deliver the content directly to a home computer. The library has expanded from a physical destination in the community to a far-reaching, digital network capable of serving a much broader audience than ever before. With so much information and material available in the electronic realm of the Web, how does a library make sure its patrons are aware of the resources available to them?
Even a "veteran library user" like Knoxville Symphony Orchestra violist Katy Gawne can be pleasantly surprised to discover streaming audio, scores, and reference content available via the library's Web site.
Alexander Street is helping libraries promote and publicize their online collections through a suite of marketing tools, available free of charge. From the physical (bookmarks and posters) to the digital (widgets, MARC records, and free downloads), our marketing tools are designed to support the mission of your library.
We echo Gonzaga University's belief that Music Online has "something for every music lover." And helping your patrons discover this fact for themselves is a task we'd like to accomplish together. Our marketing team is here to help, so if you have special requests or ideas please let us know. We will try to accommodate all requests and work with your library to spread the word.
The Free Resources section of our Web site is constantly growing, and we've seen libraries do some very creative things with our marketing tools. If you have ideas, need ideas, or have already successfully promoted your online collections, we'd love to hear from you. And if you haven't already subscribed to the periodic Music Online News, it's a great way to keep up with the latest news and see what other libraries are up to.
