Adults can address a range of pressing issues when and if they have the ability to access and understand scientific information that is meaningful to them, their families, and communities. This includes health concerns such as the COVID-19 pandemic, lead in drinking water, food insecurity, and environmental impacts including climate change and energy security. These are all issues that disproportionately affect the most vulnerable, underserved populations (Grusky, et al 2017; Chetty et al 2019). Library directors, and their staff, often find themselves with opportunities and even clear calls to action to support the community in accessing information resources related to... Read more

At the risk of stating the obvious, training and continuing education is critical to ensuring staff are prepared for the work they are expected to do, and essential for staff to stay engaged in the organization and their role in it.   

As the rate of change continues to accelerate, it is sometimes difficult to decide what to prioritize for training and development—much less find the time to schedule and conduct it. But learning isn’t just another task to complete, it’s a fundamental part of building an engaged, resilient workforce. Find the time, and start somewhere, even if it’s small. 

This month's list of free webinars brings a wealth of learning opportunities for library staff, trustees, and friends. From communication to fundraising, and from boards to programming, this list is sure to bring you new insights and inspiration. Remember that most of these offerings are recorded, so you can revisit when you have the time. The list, provided by the Maine State Library, includes over 50 webinars and two online conferences, covering 15 different topic areas.

View and subscribe to the Maine State Library Continuing Education (CE) Calendar at: https://maine-msl.libguides.com/CECAL.

Do you have a free program that you would... Read more

Libraries have always been a place to go to spark imagination, and tapping into the visual and performing arts can offer community members a fresh way to engage in creative expression. From DIY crafts to creative workshops, libraries can create arts and crafts programming that helps patrons of all ages embrace their creative side. 

But the benefits of arts programming go beyond the artistic process itself—these programs offer a chance to create meaningful connections during a time when loneliness is at an all time high. Libraries can play an important role in responding to the loneliness epidemic, as this Library... Read more