Our vision for this program was to connect neighbors to their branches – and their first responders – in personal ways. With 22 locations nestled across the county, DML serves a diverse constituency. Our system provides the strength and size to implement important initiatives, and our branches meet a demand for varied programming and service flexibility. This program addressed both the hyper-local focus of our branch patrons and the needs of the large area of the county we serve. The timing proved to be especially appropriate as one of the racially-charged police shootings that captured that national spotlight happened in a Wal-Mart in a Dayton suburb on August 5, 2014. Our community was in deep need for relationship-building between residents and first responders.

Developing strong relationships between agencies and branches was vital in coordinating a project of this scale. DML staff reached out to all first responding agencies and required commitment cards to ensure all partners were aware of roles and responsibilities. First responders participated in regular Library programs, such as storytimes and advisory councils, and also conducted special events on topics of interest (STEM contests, addiction forums, career conversations, etc.) As a special service, DML passed out “Cruiser Bags” – sturdy totes with books and gifts. First responders keep these in their emergency vehicles to offer gifts to children in troubling situations.

Through Be a Reading Hero, we strengthened relationships and built rapport between the community and first responders; promoted the Library as a center for information, social activities and safety; and provided opportunities for First Responding Agencies to gain visibility and share key messages within their service areas. We received positive feedback from first responders, patrons and staff, as well as positive media coverage. This program was a win-win-win. The first responding agencies developed positive relationships with their constituents, neighbors learned important safety lessons, and the Library was positioned as a community resource where neighbors can get valuable information. Our External Relations team felt greatly accomplished with the success of the dual micro- and macro-level marketing that promoted events system-wide and within each community.