The opportunity for the partnership arose out of Miami Dade College’s need to start a summer reading program for their summer camp attendees. The College reached out to MDPLS for help and guidance in creating the program. In the process, it was determined that it would be beneficial for both organizations if the College adopted the already well-established Summer Reading Program and used the excellent community resources readily available through MDPLS.

The collaboration evolved from the realization that the public library already possessed many great resources which, when shared, would provide greater benefit for both organizations. The children in the college summer camp participated in a new engaging summer program, were rewarded for their reading efforts and saw stories brought to life with enhanced storytimes. In turn, MDPLS tapped into a new audience and broadened its reach into the community. The relationship produced mutual gains for both organizations.

The relationship resulted in increased participation and higher attendance derived from the summer camp as well as an overall boost to library card registrations for MDPLS. Increased awareness, access and the opportunity to offer a fully developed summer program were just some of the goals achieved by both organizations. The collaboration has in turn opened the door to future opportunities to work together and share resources. This has been one of the most successful aspects of the union.