Narrowing the Global Digital Divide: One Library at a Time

I’ve been a “card-carrying member” of the Brooklyn Public Library for a long time; but my passion and interest in public libraries truly blossomed as I traveled the U.S. the past two years training public librarians and trustees for Turning the Page: Building Your Library Community. I helped these leaders to build and maintain their project and fundraising teams; develop compelling stories that will motivate local residents to raise funds; and effectively advocate on behalf of their libraries with key funders and decision makers.

NOW, I’m excited to announce that I’ve been asked to facilitate the TTP program for a select group of  Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation’s Global Library grantees. Next week, I will gather in Brussels with grantees from Botswana, Bulgaria, Chile, Lithuania, Latvia, Mexico, Poland, Romania, Ukraine, and Vietnam to lead this training. Attendees will include library directors, advocacy specialists, library association members and supporters, and government representatives.

One of the Foundation’s goals is to narrow the digital divide by “helping public libraries provide free, quality computer and Internet services to everyone who walks through their doors.” It’s truly an honor to be part of this endeavor to help narrow the digital divide – globally! I’m looking forward to learning more about the local needs and brainstorming strategies to ensure public access to the Internet and technology.

Beyond the software and hardware, our focus is on building sustainability – giving librarians and trustees leadership and communication skills to successfully encourage supporters to invest in library services over the long-term. I’ll continue to share updates and “lessons learned” from my journey. Until then, I’ll see you at the Library!

Coach Colette Offers FREE Strategy Coaching in October

In 2010, I’ve focused on helping you define your key priorities, implement your SMART goals and stay motivated in today’s New Normal. As you know, I’ve offered a series of FREE quarterly events (two teleseminars and one webinar) to help you and your team Bring Your Future into Laser Focus. The next seminar was originally scheduled for Thursday, September 30. Since I know it’s been a challenging year for many of us, I’ve decided to sweeten the deal and give you even more personalized help.

To help you kick start your 4th Quarter results, finish the year and exceed even your own expectations, I’ve decided to replace the September seminar and instead offer FREE one-on-one 30 minute laser coaching sessions! You should sign up if you are a CEO, CFO, Executive Director, Board Chair, or any Team Leader who is responsible for bringing in revenues, setting organizational priorities, or managing strategic projects.

Sign up for your Bring Your Future into Laser Focus individual strategy coaching session so that you can:

• Create a crystal-clear vision for the business results and revenue goals you will achieve in the 4th quarter
• Uncover hidden challenges that may be sabotaging your success in achieving these goals
• Identify ONE task you can execute right after the session that will bring you immediate, positive results
• Leave the session renewed, re-energized and inspired to share your vision, and encourage active participation and ownership by all team members in your collective success

Being clear on your vision will improve your productivity, morale, and motivation so you'll able to pull your team together to meet current challenges (e.g., higher expectations, tighter budgets and fewer resources, increased need to integrate systems and teams).

If you’re serious about making some real headway for you and your team as the economy rebounds in 2011, sign up for your FREE Bring Your Future into Laser Focus individual coaching session TODAY! I have a limited number of spaces for individual coaching sessions that will begin on Monday, October 4, 2010.