It is difficult to remember when our health libraries were not facing significant challenges. Funding cuts, staff reductions, space reallocations, and health library closures have become all too common. Decision-makers must better understand the critical value our libraries and library teams bring to their organizations.
Learn how to strategically define and draft organizational values, priorities, and strengths and effectively communicate them to institutional leaders. This facilitated discussion will focus on advocacy's role in helping solo librarians and library leaders define the value and impact of services. Pre-readings will be shared, and participants will have time to draft and reflect on advocacy strategies, explore writing value statements, and use them to direct their professional practice and refine their communication approaches.
Group discussions and exercises will help participants think about how to develop strategies for supporting health library teams showcase services, demonstrate and promote their greatest strengths, manage difficult situations, navigate funding shortages, and communicate our essential contributions to the healthcare sector.

Learning Outcomes:
1. Identify what information is needed to help inform difficult workplace decisions.
2. Define and articulate an advocacy strategy to direct and showcase library work.
3. Use value statements to discuss the library's vital role within larger organizational structures.

Pre-readings and worksheets will be provided. The session will begin with a facilitated discussion followed by group activities. Individuals will be encouraged to complete worksheets during the session. There will be opportunities to share work and solicit peer feedback.

Audience: Librarians working in institutions undergoing significant change or facing financial challenges.