Ruby pickens tartt public Library
case study
Project Overview
As part of a graduate-level marketing thesis project (IMC 595 at the University of West Alabama), extensive research and strategic development were conducted for the Ruby Pickens Tartt Public Library (RPT) and its Future Leaders Summit initiative. The goal was to analyze the library’s role in the community, identify key challenges, and develop a comprehensive marketing and fundraising plan to support the library’s mission.
The Future Leaders Summit was designed as a career and leadership development event for Sumter County’s high school and college students, providing mentorship, career training, and networking opportunities. Given the region’s high poverty rates, educational struggles, and digital divide, this initiative aimed to bridge opportunity gaps and empower young adults with the tools needed for success.
Results & Impact
The library has significantly enhanced its visibility as a central hub for community education, career development, and digital literacy. Securing partnerships with local organizations has increased both event sponsorship and attendance. Additionally, a repeatable event framework has been developed, allowing for the implementation of annual events that provide ongoing benefits to the community. Strengthening community engagement efforts has also been prioritized through strategic marketing and outreach initiatives.
My Role
- Market Research
- Marketing & Promotional Plan
- Visual Design
This project demonstrated that libraries are more than just book repositories—they are community anchors that provide access to education, technology, and career resources. Supporting the Ruby Pickens Tartt Public Library ensures that rural communities have equitable opportunities for success.
Moving forward, RPT Library can expand its programming, develop ongoing partnerships, and secure sustainable funding to continue making a lasting impact in Sumter County.
The Ruby Pickens Tartt Library has been a game-changer for me. As a high school student preparing for college, I didn’t have reliable internet at home to study or apply for scholarships. The library gave me a quiet place to work and access to computers, and it even helped me improve my resume for job applications. Without RPT, I wouldn’t have had the resources to plan for my future.
— Jasmine W., 17, Sumter Central High School Student
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