Library Advocacy with a Side of BBQ

By Lacy Ellinwood

Senior Library Consultant

Mississippi Library Commission

March 8^th, 2016 marked a successful partnership between two Mississippi library advocacy organizations, the Friends of Mississippi Libraries and the Mississippi Library Association. Mississippi Library Day was split between two awareness events. The morning was spent at the State Capitol Building in the first floor rotunda. Librarians and library supporters from around the state convened to talk to legislators about issues that are affecting Mississippi public libraries, such as the Mississippi Library Commission Statewide Broadband initiative, as well as issues that impact local library systems. There was ample opportunity to share support on social media, using the event hashtag #MSLibraryDay.

Check out Pete the Cat and the Cat in the Hat showing support for local libraries.

That evening, “The Legislative Lawn Party: Bluegrass, Brews, and Barbeque” was hosted at the Mississippi Library Commission. This event provided the opportunity for local legislators and librarians to enjoy library advocacy in a more informal environment. Nearly 40 senators and representatives attended this event, which allowed for library directors and supporters to spend a little extra one on one time with their legislators. Thirty-three local Friends of the library organizations supported this event, representing libraries from Pascagoula to Pelahatchie. The event would not have been possible without support from local business, Lucky Town Brewing Company, as well as the musical stylings of The Angel Bandits.

The Angel Bandits

Legislators, librarians, and librarians mingle on the grounds of the
Mississippi Library Commission.

The Mississippi Library Association and Friends of the Library organizations look forward to partnering for next year’s library advocacy event. Now go to your local library and ask them how their work changes lives!