Chapter 14 Continuing Education | Next Chapter | Return to Table of Contents
Even the most knowledgeable and experienced library trustee needs continuing education to stay informed about new laws, new technologies, and new possibilities for library service. Library services and library policies must constantly evolve to keep pace with diverse community needs. Library leaders, including library trustees, who stay informed of these changes will be better able to provide high-quality library service to their community.
CE at Board Meetings
Short continuing education sessions can be held during library board meetings. This is a way to reach every trustee on the board and also a way to involve the board in brainstorming or problem-solving discussions on issues that may be important to the library. Here are a few basic ideas for trustee continuing education.
- Use the chapters of this book to conduct trustee education “classes” on a regular basis.
- Ask the library director to conduct seminars for trustees or contact the State Library for a speaker on topics such as Intellectual Freedom, Technology Planning, Collection Maintenance, Library Resources, or Internet Use Policy.
- Visit other libraries in the library system or state and request meetings with the library director and trustees of those libraries; attend board meetings of other libraries.
- Ask an attorney to give a presentation on legal issues related to libraries and library trusteeship.
- Join the American Library Association ( ALA) and the Utah Library Association (ULA). The cost for these memberships are appropriate to pay from the library’s budget. See Appendix Material in Trustee Manual.
- Attend one or more library workshops or conferences annually. One of the most rewarding aspects of statewide workshops is the opportunity to share experiences and ideas with trustees from other libraries.
UPLIFT-T
The State Library Division sponsors UPLIFT –T, The Utah Public Library Institute for Training Trustees. Biennially, workshops are presented on issues of vital interest to trustees. State Library consultants can assist local libraries in planning and presenting trustee orientation programs.
Funding CE
When developing the annual budget, include funds for trustee memberships in associations, attendance at workshops and conferences, book purchases, and other relevant expenses. Develop guidelines for trustee and staff continuing education expenses so participants are clear about what expenses will be reimbursed and what documentation is required for accounting purposes.