Continued Learning

Effective library trusteeship requires ongoing learning and training. There are many opportunities for you and your Board to keep learning, including the following recommendations.

Montana State Library:  http://msl.mt.gov

MLA:  www.mtlib.org

ALA:  www.ala.org

United for Libraries:  http://www.ala.org/united/

MPLA:  www.mpla.us

PNLA:  www.pnla.org

Essential

Set aside time at each meeting to review an aspect of the library's administration or services.

Rotate meeting locations at branches of a system.

Good ideas

Join the Montana Library Association (MLA).

Attend MLA's annual conference and other events.

Attend Federation meetings.

Attend State Library-sponsored events.

Work through a chapter of the trustee handbook during meetings.

Other opportunities

Attend the American Library Association (ALA) annual conference.

Participate in professional organizations: Mountain Plains Library Association (MPLA), the Pacific Northwest Library Association (PNLA) and United for Libraries

See  Libraries and Library Organizations, for more information about the library organizations mentioned here.

Voluntary Trustee Certification

Trustees are welcome to certify through the Montana State Library's certification program for trustees. This is a voluntary certification that tries to recognize those trustees who are committed to continued learning. To become certified trustees must earn 15 continuing education credits in a 4 year period. 10 of those credits need to be in Library Administration. Learn more about the certification program or contact the State Library for more information.

ASPeN Event Calendar

Visit the Event Calendar to find training opportunities