CASE STUDY_
DeWitt Community Library
project overview
The DeWitt Community Library, formerly known as the Frances Banta Waggoner Library, is a vital community resource serving much of Clinton County with free library resources and meeting space. With a commitment to provide access to knowledge and fostering community engagement, the DeWitt Library offers a wide range of services and programs for individuals of all ages.
problem_
The DeWitt Community Library faced significant challenges stemming from a failed attempt to pass a city bond, hindering efforts to update and expand its facilities and services. With an estimated cost of $6.7 million, board leadership was understandably hesitant to revisit the idea. However, urgent action was needed as the facility was deteriorating, evidenced by leaking roofs and inadequate space to accommodate the evolving needs of the community and region. Despite serving not only the city of DeWitt, but also the larger Clinton County rural communities, the library was struggling to meet its demands, especially evident during its popular summer reading program for youth. A study revealed that the library was falling short in fulfilling the needs of its service area of approximately 12,000 people, highlighting the pressing need for revitalization and expansion.
solution _
Emerge Marketing Solutions spearheaded a successful revitalization effort for the DeWitt Community Library. We initiated a private fundraising campaign and devised a strategic plan to pass a $3.5 million bond referendum. Our multifaceted approach included soliciting private donations, corporate sponsorships, grants, and the bond referendum itself. We prepared volunteers with necessary training and materials that unified the library’s identity with the community’s. Through targeted outreach and educational efforts, we garnered overwhelming support for the bond referendum, which passed with more than an 80% majority and record voter turnout. Construction commenced in early 2019, with the library reopening in 2020. Additionally, we conducted grant research, provided board development training and offered ongoing communication support to ensure sustained success.
what we do _
scope of work
Details
- Location: DeWitt, Iowa
- Industry: Non-Profit Organization, Library
- Services provided: fundraising strategy, brand development, digital marketing, social media management, graphic design, public relations, training
let’s get started _
we are ready to help!
Are you in need of revitalizing your identity or refreshing your fundraising campaign to engage new audiences? Our team would love to learn more about your community, or organization’s needs.
