Team 12

Uniting for Advocacy: Enlisting Public and Policy Maker Support for LIS

A Novel Approach to Strengthening Information Services Through Strategic Partnerships

In an engaging presentation, the team redefined their problem statement to address a pivotal challenge: enhancing advocacy for the library and information science (LIS) profession to amplify the benefits of information services for all. Moving beyond the initial focus on empowering librarians to advocate for themselves, the team expanded their vision to include fostering partnerships with key stakeholders—namely, the public and policymakers—as advocates for the LIS field.

How might we help the public and policymakers advocate for the LIS profession to improve the benefits of information services for all.

Key Elements of the Proposal:

1. Broader Advocacy Vision: The team recognized the necessity of broadening the advocacy scope beyond librarians. By engaging both the public and policymakers, the strategy aims to create a stronger, more unified front in promoting the value and needs of the LIS profession.

2. Introduction of a Mascot, ‘Advocat’: To symbolize this concerted advocacy effort, the team introduced a mascot named ‘Advocat.’ This character serves as a rallying symbol for the battle against misinformation, embodying the spirit of cooperation and determination that underpins the team’s strategy.

3. Battling Misinformation: The choice of misinformation as the primary antagonist in this narrative highlights the critical role libraries and information professionals play in ensuring accurate, reliable access to information. Advocat, armed with the support of the public and policymakers, symbolizes the collective effort required to counteract misinformation effectively.

4. Strategic Partnerships with Stakeholders: The inclusion of the public and policymakers as partners in advocacy efforts underscores the importance of collaborative approaches in enhancing the impact of LIS services. These partnerships are pivotal in advocating for necessary resources, policy support, and public recognition of the value LIS professionals bring to communities.

5. Real-Life Application: The presentation suggests practical pathways for turning this narrative into actionable advocacy efforts. By leveraging the symbolic power of Advocat and fostering real-world collaborations, the team envisions a more engaged, informed, and supportive environment for the LIS profession.

This team’s presentation brings a creative and inclusive strategy to the forefront of advocacy efforts within the LIS field. By conceptualizing a united front against misinformation through the character of Advocat and emphasizing the importance of strategic partnerships, the proposal highlights the potential for significant advancements in the recognition and support of library and information services. This approach not only seeks to elevate the LIS profession but also addresses broader societal challenges related to information access and literacy, showcasing the vital role of libraries and information professionals in fostering an informed and engaged public.

Team 12 Members

Thanks to these project team members for their collaboration with DATALIS and their contributions towards innovating professional development.

• Mace Jones
• Katie Burns
• Erik Mitchell

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