Non-profits, small businesses, and community groups looking to harness data for a greater impact should mark their calendars for October 29th. The Round Rock Public Library is hosting two informative workshops that promise to enhance your strategic plans with access to top-tier research databases—PolicyMap and ReferenceSolutions. These sessions are not only about understanding data but leveraging it as a tool for success in your missions.
The morning session, running from 9:30 AM to noon, highlights ReferenceSolutions. Attendees will be privy to techniques for locating potential donors, partners, sales leads, and clients through comprehensive business and consumer data. Andra Roussel, a name synonymous with library resource empowerment, will be leading the workshop. Roussel, an Executive Account Manager with Reference Solutions, brings an educator's touch to her almost three-decade career, aiming to bridge the gap between public libraries and their patrons. "She is passionate about helping public libraries connect with their communities—especially small businesses—through training, onsite visits, and tailored support," according to an announcement from the city of Round Rock.
Following a lunch break, the action resumes at 1 PM with a deep dive into PolicyMap. This session is tailored for those eager to explore community demographics, housing, health, income, and more, a virtual gold mine for grant writing and strategic outreach. Betsy, with a background anchored in academic and public library outreach for PolicyMap, will guide attendees through stories told by data, ones that could be instrumental in securing grants and fortifying community bonds.
Easy access to maps, data, and analytics not only serves the practical needs of nonprofits or businesses but it opens up pathways to more informed decisions, effective planning, and robust community ties. Those who wield this knowledge are more apt to script their success stories, and this workshop series seems to promise just that. The afternoon presenter, with an education from Villanova and an MSLS from Drexel, brings a wealth of experience, including over 12 years at Thomson Dialog, delivering strategic account management and customer support. "Data driven storytelling is the key to winning grants," says a statement obtained by the City of Round Rock’s press release, addressing why grasping these tools can be so crucial.
Registration details and more information on the Biz.ability workshops are available on the city’s website. These workshops are a rare opportunity, a chance to not just understand but also to put powerful data tools to practical use. Anyone vested in the fabric and future of their organization would benefit from attending. It's more than just crunching numbers—it's about crafting a narrative equipped with the strength of empirical evidence.
