Helping library Friends handle crisis mode
They say the only predictable thing about life is its unpredictability. When Jericho Road Pasadena volunteer Larry Kaplan first met with members of The Friends of the Pasadena Public Library, he expected to share his expertise to help them boost membership, build awareness of their group, and start shaping a new strategic plan.
But on May 3, stunning news changed everything. The City had ordered the immediate closure of the Central Library until further notice. A structural assessment revealed the award-winning 1924 building, listed on the National Register of Historic Landmarks, didn’t meet current seismic standards and was unsafe to occupy. The library staff swung into action to shift services to other library locations. But The Friends’ Bookstore, a key fundraising resource set in the main library, could now be closed for several years.
With his seasoned experience, Larry knew that in a crisis, planning becomes more important than ever. He showed the Friends that this giant pain point was also a big opportunity for growth. Larry immediately suggested they include a call to action in their upcoming annual letter, and made more recommendations aimed at increasing their membership and expanding awareness despite the closure curveball.
“Larry is organized, quick to respond and very smart,” said one member. “He was able to give us a lot of insight and help us pivot quickly to respond to this news.”
Today, the Friends are pursuing their mission is to support the library’s programs, special services and cultural events more energetically than ever—thanks to Larry’s guidance and their own powerful commitment.
Thanks to volunteer Linda Taubenreuther for writing JRP social media posts!