Administration - An Introduction to the Montana Library Community
Overview of this training project:
A 22 minute video introduces public library trustees to several important statewide initiatives that support the mission of local public libraries. The video and facilitator's guide are intended for library directors to use to provide training to the members of their board.
Click here to view the video online
Click here to view a webinar (43 min) that explains how to implement this training program
Click here to download the facilitator's guide.
The video, hosted by Trustee Al Logan of the Flathead County Library District is divided into three distinct segments:
- Viewers meet State Librarian Jennie Stapp and learn about the statutory obligation of the State Library to support the public library system in Montana. Jennie explains how the State Library is governed and organized and she outlines some of the major projects and programs to serve the information needs of all Montanans.
- Brett Allen is director of the Fairfield Public Library and former coordinator of the Pathfinder Federation. Federations provide the funding mechanism to distribute Coal Severance Tax funds to local public libraries and they serve as regional support institutions. Library trustees hold the votes at federation meetings so it is trustees that determine how those public dollars are spent.
- The Montana Library Association is the professional organization for all library staff and trustees in Montana. Membership is voluntary, but trustees reap important benefits. In this segment, Anne Kish, past president of MLA and, explains what MLA provides.
The video and accompanying activities in the facilitator's guide are eligible for 2 CE credits in the category of Library Administration. Viewing the video alone is not eligible for credit.
By viewing this video and completing the activities listed in the facilitor's guide, library staff, volunteers, and especially trustees will achieve the following outcomes:
Identify key institutions in Montana that provide critical services to public libraries
Gain a clear understanding of the statewide initiatives that may improve patron services at their local library
Know who to contact for more information
Be prepared to take informed action on participation of a local library in a statewide initiative
