Mid-Hudson Library System has provided a Phased Reopening Template for libraries to use when planning for reopening their library facilities and services. The document includes guidance from federal, state, and local authorities along with best practices from libraries providing services outside of New York in regard to considerations for returning to the library, preparing your
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As New York State contemplates adjustments to the enacted budget and cuts to education of 15-20% we need you to speak up and let your legislators know about the effects these cuts will have for your library. Both state aid and construction funds for libraries were reduced for the state budget for FY 2020-21, and
Funds from the federal government can help offset some of the state-level cuts necessary in the face of COVID-19. Use the form and pre-loaded message at this link to tell your federal representatives what’s at stake if libraries lose funding, and ask your federal representatives to consider providing aid to libraries as they decide how
The Great Give Back Informational Webinar will take place on Thursday, May 21st at 2:00pm. The Great Give Back is a day for library patrons to participate in meaningful service-oriented experiences coordinated by the library. The second year of this statewide program may look very different than last year. Join Courtney Wimmers, MHLS Outreach &
The latest Executive Order (202.28) has extended the adjustments to Open Meetings Law through June 6th. This has been confirmed with the Committee on Open Government. Please remember online meetings must be recorded and transcribed and that the public has a right to attend. Minutes will still need to be taken even with the recording
Southeastern NY Library Resources Council has acquired the services of an attorney to offer members timely input on intellectual property, digital rights management, vendor contracts, and other legal issues that can impact library operations. Questions sent to Ask the Lawyer will be reviewed by Southeastern staff and sent to counsel for responses. Southeastern members are eligible to participate
Public Libraries Respond to COVID-19: Survey of Response & Activities. In response to the COVID-19 crisis, the Public Library Association (PLA) surveyed the public library community to understand the immediate impacts the crisis is having on their operations, staffing, programs and services. Discover how libraries are responding to the current crisis by viewing the summary
Between now and May 31, 2020, tell OCLC about a current project, or one completed within the past year, that impacts and extends your public library’s reach by engaging with your community. How do you build stronger relationships? How do you partner to meet local needs? How do you encourage better conversations? How do you
On May 13th at 1:00pm, library staff are invited to a follow-up meeting from the April 29th, The Future of the 2020 Summer Reading Program to discuss their plans for the Summer Reading Program and share ideas. If you would like to share your plans or ideas for the summer reading program at the May 13th program, please fill out
On April 21st, MHLS Executive Director, Rebekkah Smith Aldrich issued a call to action for all member library advocates to help raise the profile of public libraries with the agency tasked with producing guidance related to COVID-19 Executive Orders. Please use this form to request specific guidance, for all types of libraries (association and public
