Virtual Learning for Library Trustees, April-June 2021

There is an abundance of spring training opportunities for public library boards. Here is a list of some that might be of interest to Colorado public library trustees.

Click the links to view more information and to register. 

 

April 8: A National Library Week Conversation with Dan Rather (United for Libraries)

In honor of National Library Week and Take Action for Libraries Day, esteemed journalist Dan Rather will join Booklist’s Donna Seaman for a live conversation about his recent book, What Unites Us: Reflections on Patriotism. Rather will also reflect on the value of libraries in today’s society and share how everyone can help support these important institutions.

April 14: Colorado Library Board Essentials (for Governing Boards) (Colorado State Library)

This free virtual workshop provides a foundation of essential information to help Colorado Public Library Trustees be better prepared to meet the responsibilities of service on a library governing board. Topics covered in this workshop include the link between governance and operations, roles and responsibilities of library boards, open meeting requirements, and core principles of public library service.

April 21: Colorado Library Board Essentials (for Advisory Boards) (Colorado State Library)

This free virtual workshop provides a foundation of essential information to help Colorado Public Library Trustees be better prepared to meet the responsibilities of service on a library advisory board. Topics covered in this workshop include the link between governance and operations, roles and responsibilities of library boards, open meeting requirements, and core principles of public library service.

April 22-23: 2021 Virtual Spring Workshop (Colorado Library Consortium)

The Colorado Library Consortium (CLiC) Virtual Spring Workshop provides practical content geared for the needs of small and rural library staff. This year’s workshop features sessions addressing lessons from COVID-19, professional development programs, online communications, library core values, and more. The workshop also features welcome remarks from Jim Duncan, Executive Director of CLiC, as well as an update from Nicolle Davies, Assistant Commissioner of the Colorado State Library. Connect informally in the virtual lounge where you can hang out anytime you like. Registration is just $25.

May 19: Closer to Free: Aspirations v. Legal Limitations in Public Libraries (Colorado State Library)

Freedom of speech, freedom to assemble, freedom to read, programming, and safe places. Libraries are, as so often is the case, at the hinge point. During this webinar, we’ll learn foundational principals of free speech and then discuss whether and how libraries can find a balance between ethical aspirations and legal limitations when it comes to serving the public. This webinar is being presented by the legal team representing libraries at Seter & Vander Wall, P.C.: Kim Seter, Elizabeth Dauer, and Cameron Richards.

June 16: A Values-Aligned Budget: Framing Your Library’s Funding Request for the post-COVID Era (Colorado State Library)

Coming through COVID, budgets in many communities are tight and revenue projections are uncertain. In this 90 minute webinar for non-district library trustees and staff leadership, John Chrastka, Executive Director of the public policy organization EveryLibrary Institute, will discuss actionable ways to reframe, rework, and even rewrite your municipal or county budget proposal for stability and even growth. The only expert in how your library can affect real change and support your community is you. The key to communicating about your funding is knowing what messages resonate with – and activate – current and potential stakeholders.

June 23-29: ALA Annual Conference – Virtual (American Library Association)

Join the library community online this summer at the 2021 Annual Conference & Exhibition. You’ll find education, authors, exhibitors, best practice information, networking, and more.

United for Libraries Self-Paced Learning Pilot

This pilot program for Colorado public library trustees launched in January 2021, with content provided by United for Libraries (American Library Association). Learn more about this free program. Email Crystal Schimpf to be added to the waitlist for when more seats open up.

Virtual Trustee Training Available By Request

Looking for something different? Colorado public library boards can request free virtual training and consultation through the Colorado State Library (CSL). Read more about what topics are available and how to request a training.

Colorado Library Trustee (COLT) Distribution List

Stay up to date on the latest information for Colorado Library Trustees by subscribing to the COLT distribution list. Members of the list receive up to four emails per month with news, training opportunities, conferences, and tips relevant to Colorado public library trustees.