Linda GreenSLIS 5415 Summer 2015

Final Project

Generations: Senior to Senior Graphic Novel WorkshopProject Proposal

Purpose, Goals and ObjectivesBuilding on an already successful library program which pairs senior adults with senior high school students, the Generations: Senior to Senior Graphic Novel Workshop is a project designed to foster a bridge between senior adults and teens through the collaborative creation of graphic novels. During this one day workshop, senior adults will provide personal photos, documents and recollections for the graphic novel while teens will provide an informal introduction to the genre and hands-on assistance with the use of ComicLife novel generating software. Overall goals of the program are twofold: give senior adults an introduction and appreciation of the creative possibilities within the graphic novel genre while promoting leadership, interpersonal skills, and community engagement in teens.

Needs AssessmentA needs assessment serves as a vital process in library programing. Needs assessments distinguish the interests, goals, and general mind-set of the community and/or targeted group. As a planning tool, the assessment(s) can provide focus to the goals and objectives of program to make certain that community needs are achieved.

Organization Needs Assessment. Two years ago the Conway County Library conducted a survey of senior adults living within the service area to determine their interests and needs. From this study, it was determined that seniors were primarily interested in two types of programs: (1) those that introduced them to new technology; and (2) ones that kept them current and active with today’s events. Seniors frequently noted how they felt “out of touch” and unable to relate to the youth of today. A follow-up survey was conducted within the young adult populace which indicated that youth felt they would benefit from additional community engagement/volunteer opportunities as well as a means to develop leadership skills prior to college. To meet these needs, the library developed an ongoing program entitled “Seniors to Seniors.”

The Seniors to Seniors program brings together senior high school students and senior adults in the community. The programs are held regularly and content is agreed upon by representatives from each group. Previous programs have included basic computer skills for seniors, an introduction to social media, and an oral history program for veterans. With the increased demand and circulation of graphic novels in the library, this workshop will help meet the needs of both target groups.

Project Needs Assessment. To gauge the needs to this particular program, the following assessments will be conducted:

Written survey on registration form to evaluate participants’ familiarity with graphic novels

Written survey to teen volunteers to determine current graphic novel readings and familiarity with ComicLife software

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Informal discussions with patrons to determine interest and knowledge in graphic novels Social media campaign for graphic novels and examples of ComicLife which allows

informal discussion as well as providing web traffic analytics for review and assessment

Implementation PlanThis section details the resources necessary to complete the proposed graphic novel workshop. When possible, exact numbers and financial information has been provided. Where exact numbers cannot be determined, projected costs have been calculated based on previous programs of similar substance.

Staffing: Linda Green will be the primary project developer. Volunteers from the Teen Advisory Group will be involved in the actual instruction and content of the program.

Funding: Costs for marketing materials, program supplies, and evaluation tools will be from the library’s current programming budget and/or in kind contributions and donations. A suggested budget for the workshop is provided below.

Library Cost In Kind Contribution NotesLibrary staffing 128.00 8 hours for one library

employeeVolunteers 270.00 5 hours each for 6 teen

volunteersSupplies 75.00Software 0.00* Annual subscription fee

is included in library general operating budget each year, no additional fees required

Marketing 10.00 Copy and advertising feesRefreshments 40.00 Drinks and light snacks

provided by local sponsors

Total program cost:- (in kind contributions)

523.00-385.00$138.00

Resources/Equipment: The program requires no new resource or equipment purchases. The workshop will make use of the following in-house resources:

Laptop and/or desktop computers (determination based on number of participants and participants comfort level with each type of device);

Printers, ink and paper

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ComicLife subscription software Scanners (if needed to digitize items provided by participants) Storyboard sheets (see Appendix C)

Timeline: As an addition to an already existing program, the graphic novel workshop does not require a lengthy planning timeline. The timeline below can be accelerated as necessary to meet community needs.

Week Five: Create all promotional materials for program for distribution Week Four: Distribute promotional materials at Seniors to Seniors regular meeting Week Three: Distribute promotional materials throughout community. Advertise

program in local media outlets and through library social media accounts. Begin taking registrations.

Week Two: Confirm software subscription, confirm volunteers and refreshment sponsors. Meet with teen volunteers to discuss program design, schedule and goals.

Week One: Send out reminders to registrants and hold workshop. Final week: Compile reports and end of program survey results to evaluate and

assessment program results.

Program ContentThis program is designed as a 4 hour workshop to be held at the library. Content includes activities done prior to the workshop, schedule of the workshop itself, and evaluation following the close of the workshop.

Pre-workshop Content. Prior to the workshop date,

Program Evaluation

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Appendix AProgram Flyer

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Appendix BWorkshop Trifold Brochure

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Appendix CStoryboard Form

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