Warsaw Community Public Library recently announced that it was the recipient of Dekko Foundation’s “A Little Love for Library” grant for $30,000. The library received the grant to help upgrade its exterior signs with new digital signs, according to a press release from WCPL Director Ann M. Zydek. These new signs will allow the library to better publicize upcoming library programs, growing library resources, and expanding library services for all ages. WCPL is very thankful for the Dekko Foundation’s ongoing support of public libraries, Zydek stated in the release. Earlier this year the library shared with the Dekko Foundation its greatest need to expand its marketing efforts to promote library programs and services – to “be more visible.” This need became apparent this spring when library board, staff and community conversations were held to set strategic direction for WCPL. The key findings showed the library is seen as an asset to the community and a cornerstone to the downtown area. Yet the overwhelming consensus was the need for more outreach and active community partnering, according to the release. Many people are just not aware of the library's many assets in spite of many forms of library communication used – website, newsletter, newspaper columns and social media. For 20 years the library’s two double-faced exterior signs have displayed its name and a now outdated logo. These signs will be upgraded this fall or next spring. Both will showcase the library’s current logo and will include digital color displays that are able to promote library programs, collections and services daily through vibrant, eye-catching messages. Thousands of people pass by the library’s downtown corner location daily. The library’s goal is to engage this wider audience and increase foot traffic for library resources, programs and services, the release states. The mission of the Dekko Foundation is fostering economic freedom through education. The Dekko Foundation focuses on helping young people build the skills, knowledge and character that they’ll need to travel the path toward economic freedom. The Dekko Foundation believes that healthy and vibrant communities contribute significantly to the positive development of children and young people, the release states.
