Faculty Publications

Crowdfunding For Academic Libraries: Indiana Jones Meets Polka

Document Type

Article

Keywords

Academic libraries, Crowdfunding, Development, Fundraising

Journal/Book/Conference Title

Journal of Academic Librarianship

Volume

44

Issue

2

First Page

313

Last Page

318

Abstract

Crowdfunding – or creatively presenting a case for funding to like-minded individuals – is becoming an effective development strategy for academic libraries. The crowdfunding projects described offer multiple approaches to consider, from an adventure-themed video to embracing polka music to entice donors to give. Social media, used in conjunction with the web and well-established email communication formed the basis of successful project promotion. Developing a robust communication plan ahead of campaign launch is critical for success. Thanking donors for their transformational gifts and follow up communication describing the impact of their participation six months later raises friends for the library potentially for many years to come. With proper planning, an active and enthusiastic committee and effective donor stewardship, crowdfunding campaigns will help libraries raise funds to support strategic initiatives.

Department

Rod Library

Original Publication Date

3-1-2018

DOI of published version

10.1016/j.acalib.2018.02.006

Repository

UNI ScholarWorks, Rod Library, University of Northern Iowa

Language

en

Link to Full Text

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