Thread: Class offer at a Library

Ok, I need advise on this one.

I have been asked if I would be willing to teach a belly dance class (well, the requester first said Bellydance Program, then class) at a local library.

This library is in the same town as where we teach classes.

Here is, of course, the "catch". It would be without pay.

My first reaction is, are you kidding me? If I came in and taught a computer class (which I am also qualified to do) would you pay me nothing?

My second reaction is, hmmmmm, given the economy and our usual advertising isn't bringing in anyone new, it might be worth a conversation. It might be tax deductible. It would "cost" as much as an ad costs us (roughly $60 a pop and we run 3 for each session) IF we limit the class size.

Thoughts?

Is the library going to charge money?

One idea - maybe you can limit the class to only like four to six times a year. Just offer one free bellydance class every few months and say "if you wanna learn more, take lessons at my studio". Many studios in my area offer free classes as "puppy sales".

If it is free - you should do it on your terms and not take away from your paying business. Use this free class to your advantage...

Yes, do use it to your advantage, you never know how many people from this free class may inquire about lessons at your studio.

Do they pay anyone else? And why do they want 3 classes?

I taught a session at an inner-city library once. The class was free to the public, but I got paid. I really enjoyed the class b/c I felt that I was able to "spread the word" about bd to a population that may not have otherwise taken a class. I never got anyone to sign up for regular classes, but I suspect it had more to do with the economics of the neighborhood than interest.

I guess my point is that sometimes these sorts of community service classes can be very rewarding, even when you are not paid. But definitely work with the library to make sure you are able to get the most advantage w/o compromising your regular classes.

Originally Posted by ravenadesigns

Is the library going to charge money?

One idea - maybe you can limit the class to only like four to six times a year. Just offer one free bellydance class every few months and say "if you wanna learn more, take lessons at my studio". Many studios in my area offer free classes as "puppy sales".

If it is free - you should do it on your terms and not take away from your paying business. Use this free class to your advantage...

I like this advice. A free 'demo' class where you get to hand out plenty of literature is a good deal for everyone involved. An entire free session that competes with/undercuts your own classes might be great for the library, but doesn't work for you.

As to whether anyone else gets paid... free speakers are easy to come by. Every university, government bureau, non-profit AND business seeking to get publicity offers free speakers. I used to line up speakers regularly and never once had to pay one. So they may not be paying anyone else.

Also, it would not be tax deductible. If you did not pay money for anything, then it is not deductible. The same goes for charitable contributions, services are not deductible...only tangible things are, like cash, check or goods.

How about free "demo class" and performance? sort of a teaser thing?

As to whether anyone else gets paid... free speakers are easy to come by. Every university, government bureau, non-profit AND business seeking to get publicity offers free speakers. I used to line up speakers regularly and never once had to pay one. So they may not be paying anyone else.
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I think speakers are another demon. I can't place my finger on why I feel like it's different, but I do.

Originally Posted by indigostars

I think speakers are another demon. I can't place my finger on why I feel like it's different, but I do.

I know what you mean. It feels a little different to me, too.

But I think to the library, it probably feels the same. They're hosting a 'program.'

I have done several library dance programs. My usual format is as a one time workshop. I am paid whatever fee I request by the library. I am not sure how the libraries budget where you are but in my area we get donations from local businesses, patrons, and some money is allotted for programs in the library's annual budget. I know first hand since I am a librarian myself. I do all the booking for performers for our various programs throughout the year. Oh and let me tell you, most performers charge between $175.00 to $400.00 for an hour to an hour and a half program. Sometimes they add a travel fee to that as well.

Originally Posted by indigostars

Do they pay anyone else? And why do they want 3 classes?

My sentence was written odd. We run 3 ads for each 6 week session. We run it for the 2 weeks before the week of the 1st class and also week of class. The ads run in the Sunday paper and our classes begin on Wednesdays and Thursdays. It allows for awareness and then last minute planners, grin.

I also do library programs and am a librarian like stardancer (hey, sista librarian!) I am always paid for my services, usually whatever price I ask. Depending on your area, your public library does receive funding for educational programs.

If this library is also offering yoga, ballroom dance, a monthly concert series, and other activities, then they definitely have a program budget and are paying others pretty well. (The library I teach at offers this and more.)

If the library does not offer any kind of classes, or the classes are provided by other local government agencies, then they don't have a program budget. (The case with most libraries in Philadelphia.)

In my case, the classes are free to patrons and run twice a month. However, I am paid directly by the library a set price per session which matches rates in the area.

I agree with everyone - do one class every few months as advertising if they can't pay.