This fall, the Massachusetts Library Series (MLS) is hosting two MLS Member Webinars! MLS member library staff will share their knowledge and expertise about their selected topics for their fellow library colleagues.
In this blog series, we’re spotlighting this season’s presenters by sharing how their backgrounds connect to their chosen topics.
Learn more about becoming a passport acceptance agency from Patty Bailey, technical services specialist at the Morrill Memorial Library in Norwood, in today’s blog!
Be sure to also register for Patty’s webinar: Wait, Libraries Do That, Too? Becoming a U.S. Passport Acceptance Agency
What is your name and position, the name of your library, and the community your library serves?
Patty Bailey: My name is Patty Bailey, I am a technical services specialist at the Morrill Memorial Library in Norwood, Massachusetts. Our library serves a diverse community of over 30,000 people.
What is your webinar about?
Bailey: My webinar will provide a comprehensive overview of the steps involved for a library to become a passport acceptance agency and emphasize the tremendous value this service can provide to your community.
What is your background to providing these types of services to your community? Why are you passionate about it?
Bailey: I have worked at Morrill Memorial Library for 17 years, beginning as a part-time circulation assistant and later, advancing to technical services full-time. I also run the monthly Turn the Page Book Group, which keeps me connected to patrons and allows me to continue to promote the many wonderful services libraries offer today.
Libraries have taken on the role as a vital community resource. The more services we can provide, the greater value we have to the public.
Why did you decide to host an MLS Member Webinar?
Bailey: I presented on this topic at the Massachusetts Library Association Conference in May 2024. Not all library staff members can attend conferences, so these types of webinars attract a broader audience.
Do you have any advice to other library workers who may be interested in learning more about becoming a passport acceptance agency? Do you recommend any resources for further learning?
Bailey: I am happy to answer questions and provide guidance to anyone interested in their own library becoming a passport acceptance agency.
For further information, you can email your local Regional Passport Agency (RPA) at NPIC@state.gov.
