Promote Learning in your Local Library
nmcnamara November 6th, 2009
AONTAS invites libraries around the country to promote adult learning through the Adult Learners Festival 2010. The Festival runs nationwide next year for the fourth time, from February 22nd to February 26th. Events run during the week by a variety of groups involved in adult learning will contribute to a nationwide campaign designed to promote the value and benefits of learning as an adult.
Libraries are now an essential part of community infrastructure – providing up to date information and social contact for people recently made unemployed, facilitating research opportunities on everything from genealogy to Spanish lessons, as well as stocking the latest bestsellers. AONTAS recognises the huge role that libraries play as learning sites, and wants to gain recognition for that role through the participation of the libraries in next year’s Adult Learners’ Festival.
Last year, over 250 events took place around the country. Events locally and nationally were featured in local, regional and national media. A number of libraries hosted events over the week, with local libraries buzzing with the energy of people learning something new. Some of the libraries organised their monthly bookclubs to coincide with the Festival, while others hosted information mornings in conjunction with their Local VEC or organised taster courses in email and internet for older people.
If your library would like to get involved, AONTAS can help you to promote your events locally. AONTAS will provide you with:
- An Event Bag – all you need to organise your event, from posters and balloons to other goodies;
- A sample press release – which you can use to promote your event in local media;
- A toolkit of Ideas – of events that you can organise – simply by planning your existing calendar around the Festival, you can be part of the Festival. In addition AONTAS can advise you how you might collaborate with other local organisations if you want to organise a bigger event;
- Event promotion through our special Festival website www.adultlearnersfestival.com which will act as a unique information portal for people wanting to attend events.
- Encourage meetings of groups that use your facilities (eg bookclubs);
- ‘What’s in your local library’? Showcase the facilities and resources that libraries offer to the general public;
- Host a talk or workshop from another organisation. (AONTAS can help match you with another organisation in your area);
- Promote websites such as www.askaboutireland.com through internet access at your library;
- Organise a membership drive for your library, and promote the benefits of being a member!
For more ideas, contact AONTAS on 01 406 8220, or visit www.adultlearnersfestival.com.