Evidence-Based Email Strategies: Making Patron-Driven Improvements to Library Emails

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When was the last time you (or your patrons) looked at your library’s automated emails? System-generated messaging may be the most frequently used and frequently overlooked method of patron communication.

The Nevada State University Library collected interview and survey feedback from over 500 patrons and uncovered a range of issues with existing email templates related to library jargon, email length, emotional impact, and more. Drawing on data and best practices, they created an evidence-based email content guide to facilitate clear and concise communication in a consistent library voice.

In this session, the instructors will outline how to improve the effectiveness of library automated emails by making them clearer, more emotionally intelligent, and consistent with library branding. You’ll learn strategies to fix issues with existing email communication like confusing library jargon, overly long messages, and a lack of emotional warmth.

Through participation in this webinar, participants will be able to:

  • Understand the importance of reviewing and optimizing automated email communications.
  • Recognize common issues in existing email templates used by libraries.
  • Apply practical strategies for implementing improvements and aligning email communications with their brand.

As a User Experience Librarian, Lauren Johnson designs and conducts holistic assessments of library resources and services so the library can make evidence-based changes to better serve Nevada State University's growing community. She holds a BA in English and Theatre from Presbyterian College and an MFA in Creative Writing and an MS in Information Science from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville.

As the Outreach & Engagement Librarian, Alena Manjuck is responsible for leading the Nevada State University Library’s marketing and outreach efforts. Alena holds a BA in English and Art from Lafayette College and an MSLS from the School of Information and Library Science (SILS) at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She is a recipient of the 2024 SILS Rising Star Alumni Award.

This event will be hosted in Zoom. Automatic captions will be enabled for this event. This event will be recorded, and registrants will receive access to the recording within a day after the event ends.

If you have questions or requests regarding accessibility, contact us at ce@ala.org or at 312-280-5100.

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