{"id":2304,"date":"2026-01-28T09:54:59","date_gmt":"2026-01-28T14:54:59","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/mblc.state.ma.us\/mblc_blog\/?p=2304"},"modified":"2026-01-28T10:10:20","modified_gmt":"2026-01-28T15:10:20","slug":"jan26","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/mblc.state.ma.us\/mblc_blog\/2026\/01\/28\/jan26\/","title":{"rendered":"Service Update &#8211; January 28, 2026"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div data-wp-interactive=\"core\/file\" class=\"wp-block-file\"><object data-wp-bind--hidden=\"!state.hasPdfPreview\" hidden class=\"wp-block-file__embed\" data=\"https:\/\/mblc.state.ma.us\/mblc_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/FINAL-MBLC-Service-Update-January-2026.pdf\" type=\"application\/pdf\" style=\"width:100%;height:600px\" aria-label=\"Embed of [PDF] MBLC Service Update - January 2026.\"><\/object><a id=\"wp-block-file--media-2c264dc8-e82b-4ad2-8b40-a3f9f2bbf0b3\" href=\"https:\/\/mblc.state.ma.us\/mblc_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/FINAL-MBLC-Service-Update-January-2026.pdf\">[PDF] MBLC Service Update &#8211; January 2026<\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/mblc.state.ma.us\/mblc_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/FINAL-MBLC-Service-Update-January-2026.pdf\" class=\"wp-block-file__button wp-element-button\" download aria-describedby=\"wp-block-file--media-2c264dc8-e82b-4ad2-8b40-a3f9f2bbf0b3\">Download<\/a><\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity is-style-wide is-style-wide--1\"\/>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>MBLC Monthly Board Meeting on February 5 <\/strong><em>(Hybrid)<\/em><br><strong>Contact: <\/strong><a href=\"mailto:rachel.masse@mass.gov\"><strong>Rachel Masse<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The regular <a href=\"https:\/\/mblc.libcal.com\/event\/16017540\"><strong>monthly board meeting<\/strong><\/a><strong> <\/strong>of the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners is scheduled for <strong>10<em>AM on Thursday, February 5, 2026, <\/em>at the MBLC Office, 90 Canal Street, Suite 500, Boston, MA.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>MBLC to Restore Research Databases<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>After uncertainty surrounding federal funding and the fallout from <a href=\"https:\/\/www.whitehouse.gov\/presidential-actions\/2025\/03\/continuing-the-reduction-of-the-federal-bureaucracy\/\">Executive Order 14238<\/a> caused <a href=\"https:\/\/mblc.state.ma.us\/news\/news-releases\/2025\/nr250520.php\">significant cuts to statewide research databases in May of 2025<\/a>, the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners (MBLC) has started a phased process to restore some databases starting in July of 2026. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.imls.gov\/news\/statement-agencys-reinstatement-terminated-imls-grants\">In December, IMLS funding was reinstated.<\/a> <a href=\"https:\/\/mblc.state.ma.us\/news\/news-releases\/2026\/nr260126.php\">For more about the MBLC restoring researching databases, visit the MBLC website for the press release.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Explore Grants Awarded as Part of Federal Rebuild<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Contact: <\/strong><a href=\"mailto:lyndsay.forbes@mass.gov\"><strong>Lyndsay Forbes,<\/strong><\/a><strong> <\/strong><a href=\"mailto:robert.favini@mass.gov\"><strong>Rob Favini<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners (MBLC) is pleased to announce that 12 libraries have received a combined $58,500 as the FY2026 recipients of Explore Grants. These grants were initially awarded in FY2025, but had to be <a href=\"https:\/\/mblc.state.ma.us\/news\/news-releases\/2025\/nr250403.php\">cancelled due to federal funding cuts to the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS)<\/a>. The MBLC uses federal Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) funding from IMLS to provide Explore Grants that improve library services, collections, and programs. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.imls.gov\/news\/statement-agencys-reinstatement-terminated-imls-grants\">In December, IMLS funding was reinstated.<\/a> <a href=\"https:\/\/mblc.state.ma.us\/news\/news-releases\/2026\/nr260123.php\">For more about these Explore Grants, visit the MBLC website<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/mblc.state.ma.us\/mblc_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/55037614981_1f13abfb31_4k-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"Library staff and community stand behind a yellow ribbon at the grand opening ceremony for the new Shutesbury Public Library on January 10, 2026.\" class=\"wp-image-2316\" srcset=\"https:\/\/mblc.state.ma.us\/mblc_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/55037614981_1f13abfb31_4k-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/mblc.state.ma.us\/mblc_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/55037614981_1f13abfb31_4k-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/mblc.state.ma.us\/mblc_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/55037614981_1f13abfb31_4k-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/mblc.state.ma.us\/mblc_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/55037614981_1f13abfb31_4k-1536x1152.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/mblc.state.ma.us\/mblc_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/55037614981_1f13abfb31_4k-2048x1536.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Library staff and community stand behind a yellow ribbon at the grand opening ceremony for the new Shutesbury Public Library on January 10, 2026.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Shutesbury Public Library Grand Opening<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Contact: <\/strong><a href=\"mailto:andrea.bunker@mass.gov\"><strong>Andrea Bono-Bunker,<\/strong><\/a><strong> <\/strong><a href=\"mailto:emailto:heather.backman@mass.gov\"><strong>Heather Backman<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The Shutesbury Public Library celebrated their grand opening and ribbon cutting on January 10, 2026. <a href=\"https:\/\/mblc.state.ma.us\/news\/news-releases\/2022\/nr220407.php\">Shutesbury was awarded a Small Libraries Construction grant in 2022<\/a> as part of the Small Library Pilot Project from the MBLC\u2019s <a href=\"https:\/\/mblc.state.ma.us\/programs-and-support\/construction\/background.php\">Massachusetts Public Library Program (MPLCP)<\/a>. &nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/flic.kr\/s\/aHBqjCGjq5\">For photos from Shutesbury Public Library&#8217;s Grand Opening, visit the MBLC Flickr album.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>MBLC Strategic Planning Focus Groups<\/strong><strong> <\/strong>(<a href=\"https:\/\/mblc.libcal.com\/calendar\/main?cid=3880&amp;t=d&amp;d=0000-00-00&amp;cal=3880&amp;ct=84633&amp;inc=0\"><em>Multiple Locations<\/em><\/a><em> in-person<\/em>)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/mblc.libcal.com\/event\/15610399\">Tuesday, February 3 at 1:30PM at Lakeville Public Library &#8211; Registration &amp; More Information<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/mblc.libcal.com\/event\/15794611\">Friday, February 13 at 1:30PM at Cape Cod Community College &#8211; Registration &amp; More Information<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/mblc.libcal.com\/event\/15945768\">Wednesday, February 25 at 10AM at Greenfield Public Library &#8211; Registration &amp; More Information<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Library workers, users, partners, stakeholders, and community members are invited to share their thoughts, concerns, and questions about the future directions of Massachusetts Libraries broadly and the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners (MBLC), the Commonwealth&#8217;s state agency that supports libraries through funding, guidance, partnerships, and the coordination of statewide services. Learn more about the MBLC, its mission, and its current programs and services by visiting <a href=\"https:\/\/mblc.state.ma.us\/\">the agency&#8217;s website<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/mblc.state.ma.us\/mblc_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/2026StateAidGuide-1024x1024.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-2312\" style=\"width:280px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/mblc.state.ma.us\/mblc_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/2026StateAidGuide-1024x1024.png 1024w, https:\/\/mblc.state.ma.us\/mblc_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/2026StateAidGuide-300x300.png 300w, https:\/\/mblc.state.ma.us\/mblc_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/2026StateAidGuide-150x150.png 150w, https:\/\/mblc.state.ma.us\/mblc_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/2026StateAidGuide-768x768.png 768w, https:\/\/mblc.state.ma.us\/mblc_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/2026StateAidGuide.png 1080w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/mblc.libwizard.com\/f\/StateAid26\"><strong>Order the 2026 State Aid to Public Libraries Guide for Municipal Officials<\/strong><\/a><em><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Contact: <\/strong><a href=\"mailto:celeste.bruno@mass.gov\"><strong>Celeste Bruno<\/strong><\/a><strong>, <\/strong><a href=\"mailto:june.thammasnong@mass.gov\"><strong>June Thammasnong<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/awarehouse.mblc.state.ma.us\/collateral\/download\/961\/\"><strong>The 2026 State Aid to Public Libraries: Guide for Municipal Officials<\/strong><\/a> is <a href=\"https:\/\/mblc.libwizard.com\/f\/StateAid26\">available to order<\/a> and be shipped to your library <strong>free of cost<\/strong>. This booklet is a guide for local and public officials about the importance of the State Aid to Public Libraries Program, including why staying State Aid certified matters.&nbsp; <a href=\"https:\/\/awarehouse.mblc.state.ma.us\/collateral\/download\/961\/\">The 2026 State Aid to Public Libraries Guide for Municipal Officials can also be downloaded and printed from the MBLC Awarehouse at any time.<\/a>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"851\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/mblc.state.ma.us\/mblc_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/19thPJDrive_Facebook-Cover.png\" alt=\"An image with the Bruins PJ Drive Logo, and Boston Bruins mascot blades standing in front of a seated audience of children.\" class=\"wp-image-2311\" srcset=\"https:\/\/mblc.state.ma.us\/mblc_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/19thPJDrive_Facebook-Cover.png 851w, https:\/\/mblc.state.ma.us\/mblc_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/19thPJDrive_Facebook-Cover-300x111.png 300w, https:\/\/mblc.state.ma.us\/mblc_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/19thPJDrive_Facebook-Cover-768x284.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 851px) 100vw, 851px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/mblc.state.ma.us\/programs-and-support\/public-awareness\/toolkit-pjdrive.php\"><strong>19<sup>th<\/sup> Annual Bruins PJ Drive<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Contact: <\/strong><a href=\"mailto:rachel.masse@mass.gov\"><strong>Rachel Masse<\/strong><\/a><strong><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>We\u2019re once again joining the Boston Bruins, Cradles to Crayons and DCF\/Wonderfund to collect pajamas for kids in need from February 1 to March 15 (It\u2019s OK if you don\u2019t want to do the full 6 weeks!) The goal is to collect 10,000 pairs of new PJs!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Here\u2019s how it works:<\/strong><strong><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cradlestocrayons.org\/boston\/bruins-pj-drive\/\">Register to participate in the PJ Drive through Cradles to Crayons<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Pajamas <em>should not be<\/em> placed in MLS delivery.\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Cradles to Crayons is state-wide, please contact them to arrange picks up for the pajamas your library collects. If you have a problem reaching someone, please <a href=\"mailto:rachel.masse@mass.gov\">contact Rachel Masse by email<\/a> or cell phone, (857) 488-6953.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>We are reaching out to the DCF\/ Wonderfund for an updated list of gatekeepers and pajama drop-off locations.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/awarehouse.mblc.state.ma.us\/collateral\/programs\/bruins-pj-drive\/\">Bruins PJ Drive promotional materials are available to download and print on the MBLC Awarehouse<\/a>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Library Patrons can make individual donations through the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/hz\/wishlist\/ls\/1APT6JH252NS9?ref_=wl_fv_le\">Amazon Wish List<\/a> and PJs get sent to directly to Cradles to Crayons. (<a href=\"https:\/\/awarehouse.mblc.state.ma.us\/collateral\/download\/838\/\">Printable flyer with the Amazon Wishlist QR code is available at the MBLC Awarehouse<\/a>.)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Help for New Americans<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Contact: <\/strong><a href=\"mailto:allyson.dowds@mass.gov\"><strong>Ally Dowds<\/strong><\/a><strong><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Information about <a href=\"https:\/\/mblc.state.ma.us\/programs-and-support\/new-americans\/resources.php\">LUCE Immigrant Justice Network of Massachusetts<\/a>, Know Your Rights Guides, Immigration Resources, Family Preparedness and Citizenship can be found at the <a href=\"https:\/\/mblc.state.ma.us\/programs-and-support\/new-americans\/resources.php\">MBLC\u2019s New American Resources page<\/a>.&nbsp; The page also includes a Library Resource Guide with links to gathered information from several Massachusetts libraries and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.oif.ala.org\/libraries-and-immigration-enforcement\/\">ALA\u2019s Office for Intellectual Freedom Office on Libraries and Immigration Enforcement<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Justice Involved Library Services: A Roundtable Discussion <\/strong><em>(Online)<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Contact: <\/strong><a href=\"mailto:allyson.dowds@mass.gov\"><strong>Ally Dowds<\/strong><\/a><strong><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/mblc.libcal.com\/event\/15753582\">Thursday, February 5 at 1PM &#8211; Registration &amp; More Information<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Connect with fellow librarians providing library services to individuals currently and formerly experiencing incarceration in state, county and youth facilities in Massachusetts. Join this conversation to exchange ideas, collaborate on projects, and build a supportive community.<strong> Whether you work directly in a carceral facility, have experience collaborating with institutions to provide outreach, or you are a librarian interested in developing an outreach partnership<\/strong>, this meetup group provides a forum to come together for meaningful discussion and resource sharing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Registration is not required. This is an existing group that meets monthly on the first Thursday at 1pm.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>State Aid Office Hours<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Contact: <\/strong><a href=\"mailto:cate.merlin@mass.gov\"><strong>Cate Merlin<\/strong><\/a><strong>, <\/strong><a href=\"mailto:jennifer.inglis@mass.gov\"><strong>Jen Inglis<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/mblc.libcal.com\/event\/16266083\">Wednesday, February 4 at 10AM \u2013 More Information &amp; Zoom Link<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/mblc.libcal.com\/event\/16266090\">Wednesday, February 18 at 2PM \u2013 More Information &amp; Zoom Link<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Join the MBLC State Aid team and your fellow Library Directors seeking advice and answers as we embark upon the FY27 budget season. Make sure your next budget, materials spending, and hours open fully meet State Aid requirements. FY27 is shaping up to be a rough budget year for many municipalities- ask your budget and certifications questions here.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>State Aid Waiver &amp; Certification Workshop <\/strong><em>(Online)<\/em><em><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Contact: <\/strong><a href=\"mailto:cate.merlin@mass.gov\"><strong>Cate Merlin<\/strong><\/a><strong>, <\/strong><a href=\"mailto:jennifer.inglis@mass.gov\"><strong>Jen Inglis<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/mblc.libcal.com\/event\/16272463\">Wednesday, February 10 at 10AM \u2013 More Information &amp; Zoom Link<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Is your library facing budget issues for FY27? Are you facing a municipal override vote this spring, and want to know how a failed override and reduced budget will affect your library&#8217;s State Aid and Certification?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In this workshop, we&#8217;ll review the FY27 MAR (Municipal Appropriation Requirement), the MAR Waiver Application process if your budget does not meet the MAR, and how you can make your case to your municipalities for a stable and funded library budget. We&#8217;ll go over what State Aid Certification means, what is lost if a library budget is drastically cut, and have time for individual questions at the end.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>State Aid Overview <\/strong><em>(Online)<\/em><em><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Contact: <\/strong><a href=\"mailto:cate.merlin@mass.gov\"><strong>Cate Merlin<\/strong><\/a><strong>, <\/strong><a href=\"mailto:jennifer.inglis@mass.gov\"><strong>Jen Inglis<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/mblc.libcal.com\/event\/14296495\">Thursday, February 26 at 10AM \u2013 More Information &amp; Registration<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This session is geared towards new and\/or acting directors to provide an introduction to and overview of the State Aid to Public Libraries program and the requirements that need to be met in order to qualify for State Aid to Public Libraries funds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>**Please note<\/strong>: This is not a workshop about how to fill out the surveys\/forms. Those workshops will be held in June\/July for the Annual Report Information Survey (ARIS) and in August\/September for the Financial Report\/Compliance Form for State Aid to Public Libraries.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Web Accessibility Office Hours <\/strong><em>(Online)<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Contact: <\/strong><a href=\"mailto:%20jaccavrie.mcneely@mass.gov\"><strong>Jaccavrie McNeely<\/strong><\/a><strong>, <\/strong><a href=\"mailto:%20kate.butler@mass.gov\"><strong>Kate Butler<\/strong><\/a><strong><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/mblc.libcal.com\/event\/15912748\">Friday, Feburary 6 at 11AM \u2013 More Information &amp; Zoom Link<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/mblc.libcal.com\/event\/15041186\">Wednesday, February 18 at 3PM \u2013 More Information &amp;&nbsp; Zoom Link<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Need help making your web content accessible?&nbsp; MBLC staff are here to help!&nbsp; Join our office hours every first Friday at 11AM or third Wednesday at 3PM.&nbsp; View all upcoming Web Accessibility programming under the <a href=\"https:\/\/mblc.libcal.com\/calendar\/main?cid=3880&amp;t=d&amp;d=0000-00-00&amp;cal=3880&amp;ct=54322&amp;inc=0\">Internet, Technology, and Access category<\/a> on our calendar.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Library Advisory Office Hours<\/strong><strong> <\/strong><em>(Online)<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Contact: <\/strong><a href=\"mailto:alysa.hayden@mass.gov\"><strong>Al Hayden<\/strong><\/a><strong><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/mblc.libcal.com\/event\/15123469\">Monday, February 9 at 9AM &#8211; More Information &amp; Zoom Link<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/mblc.libcal.com\/event\/15123511\">Monday, February 23 at 2PM &#8211; More Information &amp; Zoom Link<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Open to all Directors, Trustees, Library Friends, and Foundation Members. They are designed to be an open-ended, safe space for questions and interaction among participants. Sessions will NOT be recorded, and chats will NOT be saved. Registration is not required; stop by anytime during the hour!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Introduction to Canva for Library Advocates <\/strong><em>(Online)<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Contact: <\/strong><a href=\"mailto:alysa.hayden@mass.gov\"><strong>Al Hayden<\/strong><\/a><strong><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/mblc.libcal.com\/event\/16039075\">Tuesday, February 17 at 12PM &#8211; More Information &amp; Zoom Link<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Library advocates are increasingly asked to communicate with library supporters across different platforms and in different ways. In this program, you will get an introduction to the basics of Canva with a focus on tools you can use to advocate for your library. Live demonstrations will get you started creating, editing, and adapting designs like infographics, flyers, newsletters, and more that can be used for fundraising, advocacy, and communications about your mission. <strong>This session will be recorded, and the recording will be sent out to all registrants,<\/strong> regardless of whether they are able to attend live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"500\" height=\"200\" src=\"https:\/\/mblc.state.ma.us\/mblc_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/CC_Letterhead_500x200px.png\" alt=\"Core connections logo\" class=\"wp-image-2241\" srcset=\"https:\/\/mblc.state.ma.us\/mblc_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/CC_Letterhead_500x200px.png 500w, https:\/\/mblc.state.ma.us\/mblc_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/CC_Letterhead_500x200px-300x120.png 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Core Connections: Supporting Aging Populations <\/strong><em>(Online)<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Contact: <\/strong><a href=\"mailto:allyson.dowds@mass.gov\"><strong>Ally Dowds<\/strong><\/a><strong><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/mblc.libcal.com\/event\/15526548\">Thursday, Feburary 12 at 2PM &#8211; Registration &amp; More Information<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Libraries are uniquely positioned to support aging adults with programs, spaces, and services that enhance lifelong learning, social connection, health, and independence. Participants will learn about statewide resources and gain practical strategies for developing age-friendly environments, strengthening digital literacy support, and cultivating partnerships with local aging-services organizations. Whether your library already has robust senior programming or is just beginning to plan, this session will offer tools and inspiration for serving older adults with purpose and creativity. <a href=\"https:\/\/mblc.state.ma.us\/programs-and-support\/inclusive-services\/core-connections.php\">Learn more about the topics to come at the MBLC\u2019s Core Connections page<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Library Trustee Orientation <\/strong><em>(Online)<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Contact: <\/strong><a href=\"mailto:alysa.hayden@mass.gov\"><strong>Al Hayden<\/strong><\/a><strong><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/mblc.libcal.com\/event\/16030633\">Wednesday, February 4 at 7PM \u2013 More Information<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/mblc.libcal.com\/event\/16030634\">Wednesday, February 11 at 7PM \u2013 More Information<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Libraries need active and engaged trustees now more than ever. If you are a new trustee hoping to learn more about your role or a more seasoned trustee looking for a deeper understanding of the basics, you are invited to the MBLC&#8217;s Library Trustee Orientation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/mblc.libcal.com\/event\/16030631\">If you would like to sign up for the remaining 2 sessions, please register for the 1<sup>st<\/sup> session on January 21<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>If you are waitlisted, <a href=\"https:\/\/mblc.libcal.com\/event\/16030631\"><strong>please register anyway<\/strong><\/a><strong> to receive the recordings and resources<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Sessions will be recorded and sent to all registrants<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Resources (including slides) will be sent to all registrants<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>MBLC Monthly Board Meeting on March 5 <\/strong><em>(Hybrid)<\/em><br><strong>Contact:<\/strong><a href=\"mailto:rachel.masse@mass.gov\"><strong>Rachel Masse<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The regular <a href=\"https:\/\/mblc.libcal.com\/event\/16017561\"><strong>monthly board meeting<\/strong><\/a><strong> <\/strong>of the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners is scheduled for <strong><em>10AM on Thursday, February 5, 2026, <\/em>at the Massachusetts Library Systems Offices in Marlborough.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Justice Involved Library Services: A Roundtable Discussion <\/strong><em>(Online)<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Contact: <\/strong><a href=\"mailto:allyson.dowds@mass.gov\"><strong>Ally Dowds<\/strong><\/a><strong><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/mblc.libcal.com\/event\/15753583\">Thursday, March 5 at 1PM &#8211; Registration &amp; More Information<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Connect with fellow librarians providing library services to individuals currently and formerly experiencing incarceration in state, county and youth facilities in Massachusetts. Join this conversation to exchange ideas, collaborate on projects, and build a supportive community.<strong> Whether you work directly in a carceral facility, have experience collaborating with institutions to provide outreach, or you are a librarian interested in developing an outreach partnership<\/strong>, this meetup group provides a forum to come together for meaningful discussion and resource sharing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Registration is not required. This is an existing group that meets monthly on the first Thursday at 1pm.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>MBLC Monthly Board Meeting on February 5 (Hybrid)Contact: Rachel Masse The regular monthly board meeting of the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners is scheduled for 10AM on Thursday, February 5, 2026, at the MBLC Office, 90 Canal Street, Suite 500, Boston, MA. MBLC to Restore Research Databases After uncertainty surrounding federal funding and the fallout [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":7,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_monsterinsights_skip_tracking":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_active":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_note":"","_monsterinsights_sitenote_category":0,"footnotes":""},"categories":[285],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-2304","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-service-update"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/mblc.state.ma.us\/mblc_blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2304","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/mblc.state.ma.us\/mblc_blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/mblc.state.ma.us\/mblc_blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/mblc.state.ma.us\/mblc_blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/7"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/mblc.state.ma.us\/mblc_blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=2304"}],"version-history":[{"count":13,"href":"https:\/\/mblc.state.ma.us\/mblc_blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2304\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":2327,"href":"https:\/\/mblc.state.ma.us\/mblc_blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2304\/revisions\/2327"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/mblc.state.ma.us\/mblc_blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2304"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/mblc.state.ma.us\/mblc_blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=2304"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/mblc.state.ma.us\/mblc_blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=2304"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}