The Massachusetts Library System is pleased to announce that we are working with LibraryWorks to provide our members with access to their webinars.  These webinars are free to Massachusetts library workers who register through our calendar. 

• Please note: To attend these webinars at no cost, you must register here. If you register directly with LibraryWorks, your registration will not be paid by MLS. 
• Please help us keep MLS sponsored training free for all members. If you are unable to attend the live webinar, please cancel your registration. A cancellation link can be found in your confirmation email, or you may contact Sarah Donnelly at sdonnelly@masslibsystem.org to cancel.

Description:

Libraries are only as good as their people. Learn how to identify and recruit talent, bring them on board, grow their strengths and contributions, and even (gasp) invite them out. This webinar will highlight key behavioral characteristics of library staff to be on the lookout for and how to diagnose and encourage staff to keep them engaged, thriving, and focused on the future. This will be an engaging discussion with plenty of time for anonymous Q & A and handouts.

Following this webinar, you will know how to:

• Know key behavioral characteristics of library staff;
• Learn at least three techniques to create an environment for staff engagement, development, and commitment; and
• Be ready to have the 20-second direct and caring conversation that can save 20 years of conflict.

Presenters: Sharon Morris and Jamie LaRue

Sharon Morris started her library career in public libraries, doing children’s and teen services, outreach, collection development, circulation, and reference. She has also worked in academia and with school libraries and has earned an MLIS and PhD in Managerial Leadership in Libraries. Sharon has worked in library development for over 20 years and conducts workshops, courses, and leadership institutes throughout the country. Sharon takes an asset-based approach to learning and invites all to engage. 

Jamie LaRue is the director of the Garfield County Public Library District in Western Colorado. The author of two books: On Censorship: A Public Librarian Examines Cancel Culture in the US and The New Inquistion: Understanding and Managing Intellectual Freedom Challenges, Jamie has been a Public Library Director for many years, as well as a weekly newspaper columnist and cable TV host. From January 2016 to November 2018, he was director of ALA’s Office of Intellectual Freedom, and the Freedom to Read Foundation.