In this months News and Updates:
MLS Supports the Unite Against Book Bans campaign
As we move through 2022, our profession has seen increased challenges to library materials, displays, and programs, especially at our school and public libraries. MLS has been working locally with our partners at the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners (MBLC), the Massachusetts Library Association (MLA), and the Massachusetts School Library Association (MSLA) to provide resources, training, 1:1 consultation, and support as our members and collaborating organizations navigate this work. Please see our Resource Guide for more information.
At the October 2022 MLS Executive Board meeting, the board voted to support the Unite Against Book Bans campaign, through the American Library Association.
Unite Against Book Bans is a national initiative to empower readers everywhere to stand together in the fight against censorship. Learn more.
As a campaign partner, MLS joins other local and national organizations across the country in this important work.
Employers Association of the NorthEast new services available through MLS
MLS is working with the Employers Association of the NorthEast (EANE) to provide member libraries with some new services during our 2023 fiscal year (through June 30, 2023).
• HR Hotline (for MLS public library members)
• Discount Pricing on Additional Services (for all MLS library members)
• Learning Opportunities (for all MLS library members)
We held an informational webinar last month, where Allison Ebner (EANE’s Director of Member Services) provided an overview of the EANE services that are available through MLS. You can view the recording of this informational webinar on the MLS Vimeo channel. Check out our HR services guide for more information on these new services.
Simmons University Leadership and Management Conversations
We are pleased to announce that we have partnered with Simmons University to present a series of Leadership & Management Conversations. On four Fridays through December, we will have a Simmons University professor present a current topic important to libraries. Similar to our Community Chats, there will be time to discuss with the presenter and other attendees the successes, challenges, and questions around the topic. While of specific interest to those in leadership and manager positions, this series is open to all MLS libraries staff.
Friday, Nov 4 – 2 PM Exploring the Experiences of Underrepresented Students using Academic Libraries
Friday, Nov 18 – 2 PM Collaboration & Connection in Times of Crisis: How Public Libraries Support Their Communities
Friday, Dec 2 – 1 PM Freedom is Not Neutral: Libraries Leading the Way in the Fight for Intellectual Freedom
Registration is available on the MLS Calendar for upcoming sessions, and a recording of each will be made available afterwards on the MLS Vimeo page.
Library Website Redesign Series
Gearing up to redesign your website? Wondering where to start? Looking for advice about the process? These interviews are part of a series from MLS Consultant Michelle Eberle featuring a variety of approaches that Massachusetts public libraries have used to redesign their websites.
