In order to help member libraries comply with the trustee education requirements, the Nioga
Library System has contracted with Attorney, Stephanie Adams to conduct four, two hour
workshops. The workshops will be conducted live via Zoom technology and will be interactive,
lively and engaging. Zoom software download is needed to access workshops. Each session is two
credit hours. See below for training opportunities.
Description: A good meeting starts with a good agenda...and is aided by careful use of
resolutions, minute-taking, and a dash of Robert's Rules. This session will review the basics
of preparing an agenda, preparing a board packet, meeting notices, meeting via teleconference,
allowing public comment, passing routine items, moving into executive session, and posting
minutes. To make it fun, attendees will participate in a simulated meeting environment.
Date: Wednesday, March 18th at 6pm
Duration: 2 Hours
Description: New York State regulations require libraries to "establish and maintain
partnerships with other educational, cultural or community organizations which enable
the library to address the community's needs, as outlined in the library's long-range
plan of service." What do these "partnerships" look like? When is a contract needed? This
session will review the requirement, discuss different models for establishing such
relationships, and talk about the letters of agreement, MOU's, contracts, and other
documentation to solidify them. Attendees will work from templates they can take back
to their libraries.
Date: Wednesday, March 25th at 6pm
Duration: 2 Hours
Description: One of the most critical functions of a library board is
to hire and evaluate the library director. How can a board build an evaluation process
that meets the needs of the library? During this session, attendees will discuss the
fundamental considerations of creating a director evaluation process, special
considerations due to contracts and/or civil service, and tying evaluation into
long-range planning. We will also review template job descriptions, hire letters,
sample contracts, and evaluation materials.
Date: Wednesday, October 7th at 6pm
Duration: 2 Hours
Description: This session will review key areas where library boards can use committees
(some powered by members who are not trustees) to tackle big issues and get them ready
for review by the full board. Areas we'll explore using committees to share the work
of are: budget, financial audit, investment, facilities, programming, personnel,
long-range plan, annual report to the community, community partnerships,
elections/succession planning, bylaws review, director search. Materials will
include model committee charges and a learning checklist of methods discussed
during the session.
Date: Wednesday, October 21st at 6pm
Duration: 2 Hours
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