I say constantly that the MLA staff can think of a project at five in the morning and by the time we are done drinking our coffee, we are already implementing it. We turn on a dime and embrace our flexibility, making quick adjustments to institute informed decisions. I like to say that MLA sets “Big Hairy Audacious” goals – we don’t limit ourselves to small, easily attainable objectives, we set goals that challenge us and push our limits. 

Like many of you who run small libraries, as a small organization MLA needs to stand out in a crowded nonprofit field and we have embraced larger organizations' branding and marketing strategies. We have invested in building a well-defined brand, utilized social media effectively, built a robust and easily navigable website, and along the way created compelling content. We have a great story to tell about our libraries, and we know that a compelling narrative can inspire support and collaboration. We need to get through the highly competitive media “white noise” that is created by all those larger institutions and find our unique place to shine and be relevant. 

Small organizations like MLA excel in building close relationships with our members, or in your case, your library patrons. We treat them like family, we know them personally, we have a deep understanding of their needs, we solicit feedback from them and involve them in developing new programs and services. In addition, the entire MLA staff wears multiple hats and knows the inner workings of this organization, they are engaged in decision-making processes and encouraged to offer their input on big ideas  – there is very little that isn’t shared at our weekly staff meetings. 

While sometimes it is good to be in the same room with the same size organizations, MLA finds “gold” in connecting with larger organizations who have achieved significant success not just in the library world but in others as well. We take time to learn from their experiences and build networks that support and encourage big thinking. We are a “curious” staff, and each and every one of us is committed to lifelong learning. In this fast-paced, ever-changing world, staying status quo isn’t an option. 

Being small isn’t in our vocabulary and it shouldn’t be in yours either – be bold, be confident, be creative, be persistent, and don’t be afraid to dream beyond the conventional boundaries. THINK BIG!

Deborah E. Mikula
Executive Director