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Message Sheet II: Families (Parents)

Goal: All families will understand the value of the library card and use it regularly.

Key message: A library card is the smartest card. Make sure everyone in your family has one—and uses it.

Why it is important to them:

A library card opens the door to opportunity. It is a source of learning and entertainment for the whole family. Using the library saves money. Where else can you take the whole family—for free!

What do we want the audience to feel? Think? Do?

• Taking my kids to the library is part of being a good parent.
• Using the library will help my children do better in school and throughout their lives.
• Make the library a regular destination for the whole family.

Supporting points:

• Why buy when you can borrow? Your public library is a goldmine of books, magazines, movies, CDs and other great stuff for the whole family.
• The more kids read, the better they do in school. Your library has something for every age and interest.
• Need homework help? Encourage your child to ask a pro—your librarian.

The Facts: (Adapt these examples for your library.)

• Public libraries help children do well in school.
• Americans borrow an average of 6.5 items per person from their public libraries. They pay an average of $27 per person in taxes to support their public libraries—far less than what it would cost to buy a best-seller, a couple of magazine, CDs and videos.
• Nine out of 10 public libraries provide computers and Internet access.

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