Do not wait until you need something

Remain in constant connection

Reach out to Hawkins Memorial Library Board of Trustees, the Iowa Library Association, and the American Library Association for background on specific issues

Learn how to frame your message

Continually read current and proposed State Bills

Research your elected officials to know on what committees they serve to better shape your message

Understand how officials have historically voted

A meeting is always better than a phone call, which is better than an email, but an email is better than no contact

Writing letters always works because they are permanent files!

Find something positive to thank an official about

Be specific in your thanks

Know what you want to say before you say it

Only share the relevant and essential facts

Do draw on both facts and personal narratives, just ensure everything shared is specific and relevant

Explain how issues directly impact you, your family, your friends, and your community

Let your passion shine through

Remind your elected official of their constituency

Again, be specific on what you want to support or oppose

Clearly state the piece of legislation by bill or code reference 

Word your conversation or written communication with a continual focus on the library's position

As always, be specific when you name libraries and the issues concerning and governing libraries

Directly point to concerns by name

Continue to monitor the issue

Reapproach the representative if nothing moves forward

Consider approaching different officials, especially on all sides of the chamber

Know that advocacy is often a thankless and constant job, but also know that your work is noticed and appreciated