By Maura Deedy, Library Advisory Specialist at the MBLC
The Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners (MBLC) Trustee Orientation program held virtually in our living rooms, offices, and kitchens is now available on demand.
The orientations are an opportunity for new trustees to learn about the MBLC and state funding and for seasoned trustees to gain a refresher. We cover roles and responsibilities, legal obligations, advocacy, State Aid, and more. We missed visiting libraries across the Commonwealth and meeting trustees, directors, and library staff. It’s an opportunity to see firsthand the beautiful spaces, learn about challenges and about what makes very library unique.
The fall Trustee Orientation was recorded, and we are pleased to make that available via our YouTube channel with closed captioning. The video has been edited into eight sections, allowing trustees to revisit topics as needed. This was recorded on October 1, 2020 and some information regarding COVID-19, library services, and policies may have changed. If you have any questions, contact the MBLC. Please watch these and bookmark the Virtual Trustee Orientation packet for the referenced materials.
The future is unknown and we plan on continuing our virtual orientations into 2021. We look forward to making the spring season more interactive with a new series of programs called Trustee Deep Dives meant to strengthen trustee’s knowledge and toolkit in their roles.