The Kansas City Library: Doing Pinterest Right

Poster for the Kansas City Library Perfect Library Contest

How far is it from New York to Kansas City?

The way the Kansas City Library put together its Perfect Library Contest has me thinking road trip.

But, it’s more than just the contest, which was terrific fun. I blogged about it here. It’s also more than the fact that I won the contest. I am delighted, of course.

Two librarians/organizers from the contest have sent me very nice notes, reaching out to say hello, and complimenting my contest entry. And to share their love of the library. From a librarian named John Keogh.

I’m one of the employees at the Kansas City Public Library who selected you as the overall winner of our Pinterest contest.  I’m so happy to hear that it meant so much to you!

I have to say – I love this blog post!  It tells me a whole lot about how and why people come to love and value libraries.  Granted, I don’t know how well your perspective mirrors that of the average information consumer (if there even is any such thing!) but I love the idea of finding emotional ways to get people to love their library.

Written out like that, it strikes me as a bit of a “Well, duh!” statement – of course it’s an emotional connection!  How else do people fall in love with their library?  But, somehow – that had never really occurred to me before.  I spend so much of my time thinking in terms of service and formats and ease of access…  I don’t always remember to think about joy and reward and happiness.

Thank you for reminding me!

That!! that personal connection, that taking a moment to communicate and engage emotionally about the library. That’s what has me pulling out the map. Because the librarians and staff of the Kansas City library have used social media the right way, authentically and genuinely, and thoughtfully. They’ve created a rapport.

So that a girl from New York, who might have to think a little bit before pointing to Kansas City, MO, on a map (geography not my best subject, honestly) is dreaming of perfect libraries and road trips.

This exchange has me certain that if I were to show up on their doorstep to say hello, I’d be welcomed warmly, treated like a special guest.

And I also get the sense that the library patrons who live within walking distance can feel the same way.