Connecting with your patrons is extremely valuable but up until recently has had a cost attached in the form of postage, paper, advertising, etc. As librarians you appreciate the importance of current information coming to you in targeted fashion in easily digestible formats. So do your patrons. So how do you go about addressing the issue of offering current information inexpensively and quickly? Take advantage of electronic communication in order to increase your communications and interactivity with patrons.

By sending out electronic information (listservs, targeted e-mails, e-zine like the one you are reading now)you can offer knowledge of the library while keeping patrons connected to the library. Here are various topics that may be a good start for your library:

• Email patrons when their holds are available.
• Send updates about any new books that you will be receiving and the dates when available.
• Create a newsletter or e-zine (monthly, quarterly, whatever fits your needs) in order to inform patrons of community events and library functions.

This inexpensive approach will spark interest and bring more patron inquiries and visits. Reminding patrons of upcoming events will make for larger turnouts and add to patron awareness and appreciation for the services your library offers.