TexShare Communication Working Group Meeting Minutes
Texas State Library and Archives Commission, Minutes
Capitol Extension, E1.020, Austin, Texas
March 03, 2006

In Attendence:
Greg Tramel, Mike Avila, Monica Norem, Dell Davis, Ron Wirtz, Liane Luckman, Erica McKewen

Mike Avila briefly outlined the history and purpose of the workbook. The remainder of the meeting was spent editing and discussing the workbook, page by page. Specific pages where staff wanted the group to focus included strategic challenges (p.5); and, relevant market research (p.8); strategies and tactics (p.11).

Suggestions and feedback were recorded on the draft document.

Additional comments regarding the workbook:

1. Display TexShare URL prominently and add legalese on CD that allows free use of the materials and that they can be modified, etc.
2. Ask program attendees to fill out a testimonial card before they get the workbook and CD.
3. Is it possible to put all of the tactics from the workbook into a searchable database that librarians could reference?
4. Be consistent with the use of terms referencing school libraries and librarians. The group suggested using “K-12” throughout the document.
5. One way to measure the effectiveness of a communications tactic is to create a specific URL that is advertised, and then count the hits/visits.

Additional tactics/ideas suggested:

1. Get on the agenda for any and all welcoming events on campus.
2. Get the library listed as an employee benefit in staff manuals and orientations.
3. Testimonials
4. Developing strategic partnerships
5. Communicate the economic impact of libraries

Greg Tramel plans to visit the three TexShare programs on Thursday dressed as Tex.

Follow-up: The group will send via email to Mike: survey tools, sample budgets, and sources for research.