The Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners and the Massachusetts Library System invite you to attend a symposium on to learn more about the opioid epidemic and ways that librarians can respond.  Presentations will explore the neurobiological basis of addiction, workplace safety, and responding to stressful situations.  The Symposium will feature Ignite Talks from Massachusetts librarians.  You'll have the opportunity to network with exhibitors from substance use disorder, mental health, emergency response, and public health organizations. We'll wrap up the day with a moderated discussion of actionable next steps. Following the Symposium, participants can apply for mini-grants funded by the MBLC to offer a staff training, host a program, expand a collection, or develop a service to increase social infrastructure.

View the full schedule for the Symposium including details about our presenters, exhibitors, and the mini-grants.  This Symposium is free of charge and made possible in part by the Institute of Museum and Library Services through LSTA funds.  

*Registration is limited to 2 staff members per library until September 10th to increase geographic reach throughout the Commonwealth.  Please consult with your director before registering.  On September 10th, the Symposium will be open to all.

Your Symposium Co-Chairs:

 Michelle Eberle, MLS and Shelley Quezada, MBLC

Thank you to our Symposium Advisors:

• Clayton Cheever, Thomas Crane Public Library
• Christina Connolly, Worcester Public Library
• Susan Halpin, National Network of Libraries of Medicine

This symposium contributes to the MBLC and MLS strategic plans as well as aligns services.