Libraries and Email Marketing

The summer is a great time for libraries. Kids are out of school and their parents are eager to get them to the library, where they can either read required books for the upcoming school year or learn the joys of reading for pleasure. Plus, adults have more time off in the summer and are likely to hit the library looking for some entertaining vacation reading material.

But how do libraries stay in touch with readers of all ages once the summer concludes? The answer is email marketing for libraries! Read on for five reasons why email marketing software provides a wonderful way for libraries and customers to engage one another.

1.) The email marketing software is versatile. A library can inform townsfolk of everything from its location and hours of operation to special promotions such as book club events and author signings. Each of these emails provides an all-in-one package that readers can refer to on a regular basis. The software also gives libraries the opportunity to create an interactive message via embedded video and images. Show people what they are missing by posting video of a reading at the library or pictures of people conducting research.

2.) Email marketing software is inexpensive to purchase and implement. The software fits into any budget and can be managed by anyone with computer experience. There's no need to hire additional staff.

3.) Email marketing for libraries is also a cost-efficient way of advertising and marketing. Libraries can rarely afford to purchase time on the radio or television. Newspapers have declining readership and are shedding space at rapid rates, which makes purchasing ads there an increasingly inefficient usage of funds. But an email from a library is delivered straight to someone’s inbox. That dramatically increases the odds it will be read as well as the chances that the recipient will use it as an impetus to take a trip to the library. Plus, the emails can quickly and easily be forwarded from one person to another. This will further increase the engagement between the library and its community and make it more popular!

4.) The personalization options available in email marketing software will solidify the bonds between the reader and his or her library. Each message can include the recipient's name in the subject heading as well as in the salutatory greeting. Libraries can also engage the next generation of readers by directing their messages to parents as well as their children. Letting children know what type of kid-friendly activities are going on and making the library a fun place to visit are great ways to portray reading as something that is to be enjoyed!

5.) Use email marketing for libraries to break news about the library to loyal visitors and readers. Adding the latest bestsellers to the library? Reveal those titles via email. Also offer additional benefits to those who are a part of the library’s email marketing campaign, such as temporary amnesty (i.e. the waiving of late fees) and the opportunity to rent books for a longer period of time.

Email marketing for libraries is the most advanced and successful way for these time-honored establishments to communicate with readers. Every library should look into purchasing email marketing software as soon as possible!