Section outline

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    Welcome!

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    balance scalesThis course will provide an overview for policy development processes and resources.  Policies that are consistent with laws and fair for library staff and patrons help libraries in their mission to provide information and safe spaces for their communities. Board members, library directors, library staff, and the public benefit from thoughtful and lawful policies.

    The Public Library Standards say

    “the board adopts and regularly reviews policies that reflect the mission and goals of the library. The policies govern use of the library, its materials, and services. No single policy goes more than four years without review.”  (Administrative Rules of Montana 10.102.1158) 

    This rule corresponds to the statute outlining the powers and duties of public library boards.

    MCA 22-1-309: Trustees – powers and duties. 

    The library board of trustees of every public library shall . . . adopt bylaws and rules for its own transaction of business and for the government of the library, not inconsistent with law

    Throughout this course you will read from materials, view videos from experts, and reflect on how your role supports the development and implementation of good library policies.

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    Why?

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    How?

    • What are good policies? Book
      Students must
      View
    • What Did You Learn? Quiz
      Students must
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      Make attempts: 1

      Answer these questions to review the key points from the course.  The quiz is ungraded but you must view and answer the questions.

    • Policy Development Book
      Students must
      View
    • Test Your Understanding Quiz
      Students must
      View
      Make attempts: 1

      Answer these questions to review the key points from the course.  The quiz is ungraded but you must view and answer the questions.

    • Getting the Word Out and Implementing Policies Page
      Students must
      View
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    Policy Review and Evaluation

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    Course Wrap-Up

    • Policy wheel with director, board, legal counsel, staff, and public sectionsNow that you have learned about policy development for public libraries and before you complete the course evaluation please consider these questions:

      • What new information have you learned about library policies?
      • What is something you need to learn more about?
      • Which MSL Staff member or other do you need to connect with?
      • Who can you share your new knowledge with?

       

      Ready for More?

      You can extend your learning into specific policies and issues by taking up to 8 courses in the Legal Topics category.