Goals:

• Integrate meaningful conversation prompts into existing library programs

• Create opportunities for community connection through storytelling and fundamental interpersonal skill-building

• Enhance current programming with minimal disruption

• Provide flexible resources for diverse group settings

• Build capacity for deeper dialogue in everyday library spaces

Steps:

The first step is identifying appropriate library groups where OSS cards could enhance existing programming. Consider book clubs, adult learning groups, teen craft sessions, and other regular meetups with established attendance.

Next, speak with group leaders to introduce the conversation cards and explain how they can be used as simple icebreakers, moments for discussion, or closing activities. Emphasize that no special tailoring is needed other than choosing the ones they'd like to bring to the group.

Provide physical card decks or digital access to group leaders. Ensure they understand how to access digital versions.

Suggest a standard format: select one card at the beginning or end of a regular meeting and have participants take turns answering the question. This simple approach requires minimal preparation.

Establish a basic system for card deck circulation between groups if using physical cards, or ensure all groups have easy digital access.

Document successful implementations through photos (with appropriate permissions) and brief feedback to help promote the program to other groups.

Introduce the OSS cards program through existing group communication channels or email. Position them as ready-to-use tools that require no special preparation.

Optional: Create displays near meeting spaces with sample questions and information about the program. Include cards in both Spanish and English.

Feature the initiative in the library newsletter, highlighting how different groups are using the cards and the positive impacts observed.

Encourage group leaders to mention the OSS cards when promoting their regular meetings, positioning it as an added benefit of participation.

Take photos of groups using the cards (with appropriate permissions) to use in promotional materials and social media.

The program requires attention to the following costs:

• Card decks: price depends on quantity and whether purchased or printed in-house

• Digital integration (optional): $0-100 (website updates, QR code creation)

• Basic display materials (optional): ~$25-$50

Tips to cut costs:

• Print cards in-house using library resources or only share the digital version (linked below). 

• Share decks between multiple groups.

• Use existing promotional channels rather than creating new materials

Before the group meeting, ensure the card deck or digital access information is available to the facilitator.

Remind the group leader about the simple implementation: choose one card and have participants take turns answering.

Take photos of the setup and group engagement (with appropriate permissions) for documentation and future promotion.

Have a few extra copies of simple instructions available for any participants who may be interested in using the cards in other contexts.

Begin with a brief introduction of the OSS cards at each group's first implementation.

The facilitator simply selects one card and reads the question aloud.

Participants take turns answering the question, with the option to pass if they prefer not to share.

Keep the process simple - about 10-15 minutes total, depending on group size.

No special facilitation or tailoring of questions is required. The cards are designed to work as they are across different group contexts.

Document the experience through photos (with appropriate permissions) and brief notes on participant engagement.

Collect any simple feedback from participants or group leaders to help refine the process for future sessions.

Keep it simple. The power of these cards is that they can be incorporated across different groups. It's okay to tailor the questions to make them the most relevant.

Be consistent with timing. Whether used at the beginning or end of meetings, establishing a regular pattern helps participants prepare mentally.

Start with lighter questions for new groups. As comfort increases, move to deeper questions if appropriate.

Respect participant choice. Always offer the option to pass if someone doesn't wish to answer a particular question.

Don't rush. It's better to have a meaningful conversation around one question than to try to cover multiple questions in a short time.

Consider the setting. Some questions work better in more intimate, established groups while others are appropriate for newer or larger groups. Questions for Teen groups can be found in our inventory linked below, or our youth quesion bank (linked below also). 

Take photos (with permission) to document the program's impact and share success stories.

Remember that these cards are designed to spark conversation, not debate. If discussions become contentious, gently redirect to personal experiences rather than positions on topics.