LSU’s Bateman Team is working to highlight the role of libraries and encourage community engagement as part of a national case study competition. The team partnered with EveryLibrary, a political action committee dedicated to supporting libraries, to spread awareness of the resources libraries offer beyond books.

“Libraries are essential to our community,” an LSU Bateman Team member said. “They provide resources whether that’s academic, community resources. They have all types of events—like just recently they did a puppy event at East Baton Rouge Parish Library for Valentine’s Day, so that was super fun.”

To reach students on campus, the East Baton Rouge Public Library brought its bookmobile to LSU, giving students a chance to sign up for library cards, pick up a free “blind date” book, and enjoy snacks and giveaways. The LSU Bateman Team helped promote the event to show students that libraries offer more than just books.

“That’s where groups like the Bateman Team and EveryLibrary step in and help fill that gap,” a library representative said. “Groups like the Bateman Team are very effective in helping to counter messaging that goes against our mission.”

With only one month to complete their campaign, the team is working to spread awareness and encourage students to take advantage of library resources.

“Our slogan is ‘Every Chapter, Every Library’ so we want to ensure that we want people to realize libraries are there for every chapter of your life,” an LSU Bateman Team member said. “And with that, we want to focus on how are libraries involved in your life as a kid, as an adult, and as an older person.”

Whether it’s studying, fun events or even puppy cuddles, libraries have something for everyone.

The LSU Bateman Team will continue its campaign throughout the next month. For updates and ways to support its efforts, follow the team on Instagram.