When we survey our members about their service and benefit relationship with Lyrasis, the value of the Lyrasis Outreach team is frequently mentioned. In addition to member benefits like electronic resource discounts, hosting services, consulting expertise, free Lyrasis Learning classes and opportunities to create impact through the annual Lyrasis Catalyst Fund, Lyrasis members also have a regional Outreach Representative. The representative specializes in a specific region to understand the local environment and member needs and provide exceptional access to staff. The Outreach Representatives regularly engage with members through visits to your library, archive or museum.
What to Expect During a Site Visit
A site visit can include a visit with the Director or Dean of Libraries, as well as visits to staff experts in the e-resources, scholarly communication, special collections and archives, reflecting all the ways Lyrasis membership benefits extend into the institution. Members have a single point of contact who understands their unique needs and opportunities and can identify risks or problems that Lyrasis may be able to help with. The Outreach Representative is a champion and advocate for your library, archive or museum.
On average, our representatives spend one to three weeks a month on site visits in their regions, visiting member institutions either virtually or in-person, making sure you are getting the most out of your membership. In some regions, they also meet with nonmembers who are interested in learning more about Lyrasis. In a member site visit, the representative will hold a discovery Q&A session, review and confirm your benefits and share any news or updates that might be relevant, including opportunities for discounts and professional development.
Virtual visits are still very common and available, but an in-person visit allows us to get to know and serve you better. On an in-person visit, your representative will meet with you and your staff and tour your facilities to see the great work you’re doing firsthand. For either type of visit, your representative will prepare by reviewing your member info – what products and services you are currently using and what you have expressed interest in. While the discussion may center around a specific product or service, the Outreach Representative is versed on all Lyrasis products, services and collaborations and is a vital resource throughout the lifetime of your membership. The representative will review your institution’s five-year plan, your institution’s overall research priorities, activities around professional development and more. They will also look at how you are currently promoting Lyrasis services and can provide tools and resources to help with outreach to your patrons.
How to Prepare?
If you have a representative coming for a site visit, you can prepare by sharing any important logistics (parking, construction, etc.). The representative will provide you with an agenda, and you can invite any staff to meet with them for part or all of the visit. Please share the roles and duties of any additional staff that are included so the representative can be prepared.
Also, please brag to us! Show us any big success that you have had at your institution, either with or without Lyrasis’ support. We love to champion great work and your representative will likely be aware of other libraries in your region with similar successes and challenges.
If you’re interested in meeting your representative and scheduling a site visit, please use the links below to request a meeting.