How can we find and engage people we want to reach, especially those who don’t use libraries? What are some common barriers to access and how can we overcome them? How can we get started with - and expand - library outreach?

In this webinar, Jo Stapleton from Age UK Camden will share practical strategies to find and engage people less likely to access library spaces or services. As an Outreach Specialist and Good Practice Mentor, Jo has supported a wide range of organisations including libraries, to develop practical strategies and approaches to successfully engage the people we often think of as ‘harder to reach’.

During this session, Jo will share:

• An introduction to proactive outreach practice with a focus on library settings.
• ‘It's not for me' insight from people less likely to access formal services and spaces, including common preconceptions and barriers to engagement.
• Informal community asset mapping – how to identify the people you most want to reach and where to find them in your community.
• Producing outreach friendly comms to address barriers to engagement and speak to the people ‘not looking for you’.
• Creating informal stepping-stones to engagement, including pop-up events in libraries.
• Exploring next steps including options for further training and support.

While primarily focusing on amplifying library audiences, this webinar is suitable for anyone wishing to increase the reach and impact of their work.