Sink or Swim? Transitioning Academic Library Outreach in Times of COVID-19

Abstract

This practical article explores the challenges and unexpected benefits discovered when a public regional academic library transitioned its engagement and outreach efforts to a fully online format. The onset of COVID-19 presented a need for a radical change to Central Washington University Libraries’ events and social media communication. While adhering to the core principles of library outreach and engagement, the library has shifted the modality and types of programming offered to meet safety guidelines. Online event assessment, promotion, and engagement will also be discussed.

Keywords

• outreach
• programming
• covid-19
• academic libraries
• social media