An outrageous hoax ‘Book Burning Campaign’ was created in an effort to create consumer word of mouth and ultimately save a Public Library in Troy, Michigan. The Library was set to close due to the collapsing economy with the only proposed solution a 0.7% tax increase to keep it open.
In a risky and bold move, a hoax online campaign was created to celebrate the library’s closure culminating in a book burning party. The campaign resulted in thousands of book-lovers coming together to fight for the library to remain open. Outraged by the idea of a book burning party, consumers passionately voted for the library to stay open regardless of a tax increase.
Due to the sheer number of yes votes, the Library has survived the tax increase and now has a large number of avid fans.
This forward thinking campaign demonstrates the power of word of mouth and how an online community can have a tangible impact on a political vote.
You can watch the campaign video below.
