Unfolded map with Massachusetts Library System Logo

In this Month’s News and Updates…

MLS Training Registration Has Moved to the Learning Hub

The Learning Hub training calendar is now live!

You are now able to find and register for trainings, access materials, and track learning activity in one place.

Please note: Learners will need to create a free Learning Hub account to register for trainings.

We hope you enjoy the learning opportunities available to you on the Leaning Hub!

Please contact learninghub@masslibsystem.org with any questions.

BiblioTemps Summer Poll Question

Calling all library lovers! We need your recommendations for our July poll. What book do you think offers the most realistic portrayal of library work? And just for fun, what book gets it completely wrong?

Whether it’s a novel that captures the day-to-day realities of working in a library or one that makes you laugh (or groan) with its inaccuracies, we want to hear from you. We’ll use your responses to create a community reading list for anyone curious about library work and librarianship, from future library professionals to avid readers who want a peek behind the circulation desk. Share your favorites and help us build the ultimate library-themed book list!

Respond on our survey!

Explore New Resources in the Library Careers Guide

Searching for a new job involves more than writing a strong resume and preparing for interviews. The BiblioTemps Library Careers Guide now includes even more resources to support library workers throughout the job-search process.

New sections of the guide include:

  • Job Searching: Explore tools and strategies for finding library employment opportunities.
  • Salary Negotiation: Learn how to research compensation, discuss salary, and evaluate an offer.
  • Self-Care During your Job Search: Find practical ways to manage stress, stay motivated, and care for yourself during what can be a challenging process.

These resources join our existing information on resumes, cover letters, generative AI, and interviewing. Whether you are actively applying for positions, considering your next career move, or helping someone else with their job search, the Library Careers Guide is here to support you along the way.

Visit the BiblioTemps Library Careers Guide to explore all the available resources, and check back as we continue to add new content!

Did You Know About the MindEdge Certificate Grant Program?

MLS is proud to provide selected MindEdge certificate programs to MLS library staff at no cost through the MindEdge Certificate Grant Program.

MindEdge certificate programs:

  • Are asynchronous, so you can work through the certificate program materials at your own pace.
  • Begin any time, whenever you are ready to start.
  • May include readings, videos, quizzes, simulations, and exams.
  • Must be completed within a defined period of time (which is detailed in the certificate program’s description).
  • Typically require several hours of work each week.

Certificate topics include:

  • Career Building
  • Digital Marketing
  • HR Skills
  • Leadership
  • Management Skills
  • And more!

Visit the MindEdge Certificate Grant Program LibGuide to find a complete list of certificates and to apply.

HR Hotline for Public Libraries

Do you work at a public library and have HR-related questions? Access the HR Hotline through the Employers Association of the NorthEast (EANE)!

EANE’s certified HR professionals are standing by to answer your HR-related questions. There is no charge to access this service. Please note that EANE staff may not be fully versed in local policies relating to compliance issues (such as leave management, or wage and hour), which may fall under jurisdictional laws.

To access the hotline:

  • Call 877-662-6444.
  • Provide your name, your library’s name, and the municipality in which your library is located.
  • Ask your question(s).

When calling the hotline, please note that:

  • Callers should hold a management or administrative position in an MLS member public library. (Currently this service is only available to MLS public library members.)
  • Callers should ask questions on behalf of their organization.
  • The Hotline is not intended for library staff to discuss personal HR matters.

Visit the HR Services LibGuide to learn more, including information about discount pricing on additional services available to all MLS member libraries.

MHEC Monday Update and Expo 2026

A message from our friends at MHEC:

MHEC Monday Update

We’re pausing our monthly MHEC Monday webinar series as we take some time to plan future sessions. We’ll share details about upcoming webinars soon.

In the meantime, check out previous sessions by visiting the MLS Vimeo channel.

MHEC EXPO 2026

Lights. Connections. Action.

Get ready to attend the premiere of MHEC’s EXPO 2026! This is your opportunity to step into the spotlight for a day of personalized procurement and valuable connections. With an extended floor featuring 208 booths and a $2,500 donation to a member organization, this year’s EXPO is set to deliver a star-worthy experience designed to help your organization do more for less.

Thursday, September 24, 2026
DCU Center
Worcester, MA

Registration is free for all MLS member libraries.

Register for MHEC EXPO 2026 on the MHEC website.

Summer Reading Kickoff at the Westwood Public Library

Thank you to the Boston Bruins and the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners for organizing the Summer Reading Kickoff at the Westwood Public Library last month!

Kids got the chance to read, play hockey, and make crafts with Bruins prospects.

It was a great opportunity for us to support early literacy and summer reading!

Prospects players from the Boston Bruins sitting on chairs and reading to children, who are sitting on the floor.

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