Pre- and post- Covid-19 Outreach Experiences at Marshall University Libraries

Sarah Mollette,Kelli Johnson

doi:10.21900/j.jloe.v1i2.843

Abstract

This article will provide insight into how MU Libraries’ cross-departmental system has evolved over the years, and how the recent finalization of their Outreach Plan led to a successful transition to online outreach during the COVID pandemic. Specifically, the authors will address: the history of library outreach at the university; the formation of the Outreach Librarian position; the audit the Outreach librarian performed on the library’s practices; the creation of an Outreach committee and subsequent Outreach Plan guide; and, how the library adapted their approach during the Covid-19 pandemic of 2020.

Highlights

The outreach experience at Marshall University Libraries & Online Learning (MU LOL) has evolved over the past several years into a robust multi-faceted, flexible program, which worked well during “normal times,” and turned out to be adaptable during the COVID-19 pandemic
This article describes how MU LOL’s cross-departmental system has evolved, and how the finalization of its outreach plan led to a successful transition to online outreach in 2020
The MU Libraries were enthusiastic about the unified communications and marketing strategy, as there had been an uneven history with library marketing

Summary

Introduction

The outreach experience at Marshall University Libraries & Online Learning (MU LOL) has evolved over the past several years into a robust multi-faceted, flexible program, which worked well during “normal times,” and turned out to be adaptable during the COVID-19 pandemic. Communications, and outreach were not a priority under previous library administrations, there were numerous librarians and staff from different departments interested and involved in these activities.

Results

Conclusion