Herrick District Library is launching a new community-wide marketing campaign this fall designed to introduce residents to the wide range of free resources available with a library card.
Called "Books and ________," the campaign celebrates a simple truth: books will always be at the heart of the library, but they are only part of the story.
Over the coming months, community members will begin seeing the campaign on social media, in library buildings and at locations throughout Holland, including billboards. Through a series of photographs and messages, the campaign highlights the many ways local residents use the library to connect, discover and create.
"Books are the foundation of everything we do," said Community Relations Manager Sara DeVries. "At the same time, many people are surprised to learn just how much a library card can unlock. We hope this campaign encourages both longtime users and first-time visitors to discover something new."
More than two dozen people participated in photo shoots for the campaign, including library staff members, community leaders, local partners and library users. Each image showcases a different aspect of the library experience and reflects the diverse ways people engage with Herrick District Library.
One of the campaign's major focus areas is the Library of Things, a collection of nontraditional items available for checkout at both the Main Library and North Branch. Borrowers can check out everything from telescopes, KitchenAid mixers and inspection cameras to GoPro cameras, Wi-Fi hotspots and Roku streaming devices. A separate collection for youth includes educational resources such as programmable robots, Magna Tiles, American Girl Dolls, Tonie figures and Yoto cards.
The campaign also shines a spotlight on Groundworks, Herrick District Library's DIY creative space. Groundworks provides access to specialized tools and technology that help turn ideas into reality, including a recording and podcast studio, 3D printers, large-format poster printers, laser engravers, sewing, embroidery and serger machines, vinyl cutters and heat-transfer equipment.
Educational programs and community partnerships are featured throughout the campaign as well. Images highlight the library's Makers-in-Residence program, which brings professional artists and craftspeople into the library to offer workshops and open studio hours throughout the year. Additional campaign materials showcase bilingual and cultural programming as well as collaborations with organizations including Community Action House, Kids' Food Basket, Outdoor Discovery Network and Renew Therapeutic Riding.
The campaign also highlights the breadth of the library's collections beyond traditional print materials. Residents can borrow board games, video games, movies, music and Kindle e-readers, offering entertainment and learning opportunities for all ages and interests.
At its core, the "Books and ________" campaign is an invitation to explore.
"Whether you're coming to check out a novel, learn a new skill, borrow specialized equipment or connect with neighbors, there's a place for you at the library," DeVries said. "We want people to know that some of the community's most valuable resources are available for free, and they may be closer than they realize."
The "Books and _________" campaign is financed through the generous donations of the Friends of Herrick District Library. For more information about Herrick District Library's services, collections and programs, visit herrickdl.org or stop by either library location.
Want to be involved in the campaign? Choose the "programs and events" menu option under "Contact" on the Contact Us form.