Time Travelers Speakers Series
Written surveys are distributed to participants at each presentation. A majority of participants will learn something new about each of the stories presented, want to learn more about the subjects presented and want to come back to the library for more programs. Library staff will also take note of any anecdotal responses.
Survey responses: 99% of participants learned something new at the program they attended. 100% of participants rated the program they attended as good or very good. 100% of participants said they would definitely or maybe like to learn more about history and travel. Out of 57 survey respondents, 13 said that it was their first time attending a Gaylord Library program. All events were located at the Gaylord Library.
Minnesota Beer and Brewing History--Tues., January 21 at 7 PM Presented by the Minnesota Historical Society and Schell's Brewery. Attendance: 45 / Historical Author D.A. Swanson--Tues., February 11 at 7 PM Author of The Thirty-Ninth Man, a historical novel based on events in 1800's Minnesota. Attendance: 22 / Make a Civil War Sewing Kit!--Sat., February 22 at 9:30AM Presented by Minnesota Historical Society. Attendance: 7 Within the small group, librarian gathered the following impressions: All of the attendees learned something new about the Civil War and sewing. All of the attendees would like to learn more about history, including checking out books and movies. Participants expressed interest in the difference between formal learning through textbooks and informal learning about personal experiences. They really enjoy learning about history on a more personal level, and about the role of women and families in different periods of history. / Marvelous Madagascar--Tues., February 25 at 7 PM. Attendance: 14 / Civil War Speaker Arn Kind--Tues., March 4 at 6:30 PM. Attendance: 30. Due to bad weather, many attendees left before the end of Arn's presentation. Also, he went over the expected time, even though we started early to accommodate his expected presentation length. I asked for a show of hands at the end of the evening and got the following responses: 95% of attendees learned something new about the Civil War. 100% of attendees would like to learn more about history. Since we hosted Arn, several patrons have asked us about contacting him and booking him for other programs. One of the participants was a former student of his and she brought her children to meet him. They appreciated the interactive elements of his presentation, including drilling as Civil War soldiers. Partner Organization(s): Minnesota Historical Society and Schell's Brewery