E-mail Signature Blocks Can Communicate Library’s Brand

The use of e-mail has greatly changed the way we communicate. It is quick and easy, and effectively using e-mail can greatly add to a librarian’s productivity. Its electronic nature also allows for easy tracking and monitoring of projects.

At the bottom of an e-mail after the content, a writer has many options on how to sign off. For the past five years, Dr. Arthur W. Hafner, Dean of Ball State University Libraries, has encouraged all University Libraries’ personnel to use a consistent e-mail signature block when sending out official Libraries' correspondence.

He recognizes that a well-crafted e-mail signature block can provide important information about the writer and it also affords the librarian with a branding opportunity. It is an electronic calling card that can be viewed by all persons who read the e-mail.

“Using the e-mail signature block is an easy and inexpensive way for librarians to call attention to their library and to communicate its mission, tag line, slogan, or other important information with each e-mail,” said Dr. Hafner.

To increase the impact of using the signature block as part of a library promotion strategy, the e-mail signature of all library employees should use the same font, background colors, and quote the same slogan, tagline, or other message that is being promoted. For impact, it should be limited to 6 to 10 lines.