2026 Public Library Standards
Section outline
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All Montanans deserve access to library services that meet
their needs. The public library standards identify a base level of service that
residents and visitors should receive wherever they are in Montana. To be eligible for state funding, libraries must meet the public library standards.
The Public Library Standards can be used to set goals and plan for the future. While the standards themselves define the basic benchmarks, we hope that this course offers ideas and possibilities for continually improving library services and is a good resource for boards and directors seeking to lead their library forward.
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Students mustView
Participants will
- Learn about Montana’s public library standards
- Learn about what the public library standards look like in practice
- Learn about resources to help plan and evaluate how your library can meet the standards
Estimated course length: 1 hour
Course created on January 16, 2026.
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Students mustView
Review the timeline and main activities related to annual reporting for the Public Library Standards.
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Now that you have learned about - Montana’s public library standards
- What the public library standards look like in practice
- Resources to help plan and evaluate how your library can meet the standards
Before you complete the course evaluation please consider these questions:
- What new information have you learned about the public library standards?
- 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?
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Students mustSubmit feedback
We hope you've enjoyed this course! Please evaluate your experience by completing this survey. Your feedback is essential to help us improve the quality and content of this and future courses.
Note: your continuing education certificate will unlock below when you complete the evaluation.
It will take about 3 minutes to complete.
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