Networking Your Community: Launching a Community Fair

Libraries connect the people we serve to information and each other, building networks and capacity within our communities. At the Weymouth (MA) Public Libraries, we have experimented with achieving this goal by offering a community fair where new residents could learn about opportunities to engage with local organizations. The result was a well-received event that enabled residents and community groups to connect with each other and that helped position the library as an important resource within our town. This presentation will describe the process of planning the fair, review some lessons learned, and offer tips for anyone looking to bring a similar event to their own community. Learning outcomes include: Attendees will understand how a community fair can support their library's broader goals, will be aware of key considerations when organizing an event of this type, and will know the basic steps to take to plan a community fair.