A Note from the Executive Director
On April 1st, library staff and administrators from across the region gathered for our first Non-Partisan Coalition Building and Advocacy for Libraries meeting, held in partnership with the Kent State University School of Information. The topics centered on library advocacy, effective messaging, and strategies for supporting staff during periods of uncertainty. The discussions were highly productive, and participants left with actionable steps to implement in their libraries. Engaging in these conversations fosters hope and support during challenging times.
Key points from our discussions included: - Building emotional connections with legislators
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Positioning the library as a bridge across divides
- Utilizing compassion and communication to alleviate uncertainty whenever possible
NEO-RLS is committed to providing spaces for these important conversations, and we look forward to continuing this initiative in the months ahead. As part of that commitment, we invite library directors and deputy directors to participate in our 2025 Directors' Retreat, scheduled for May 22nd and 23rd at Punderson Manor Lodge. This retreat will provide a valuable opportunity to explore strategies for adaptation and ways to support staff and communities during times of uncertainty. We encourage you to register soon—your participation would be greatly valued.
Thank you for your ongoing dedication to strengthening our libraries and supporting one another.
Ragan |
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| Looking Ahead Together: How Can NEO-RLS Help?
As we prepare for the upcoming fiscal year, NEO-RLS is looking to ensure our services and support reflect your current needs. We're inviting all library staff to share their thoughts. to access a brief, one-question survey.
Thank you for your invaluable feedback!
Still Seats Remaining for Notary Training
4/23/2025
4/24/2025
4/25/2025 In the links you will find documents to print and bring to class along with who to email to register. Board Nominations Open!
Not sure which NEO-RLS Zone your library is in? to find out! And remember, we are currently accepting Board of Trustee nominations for Zone 3, Zone 5, and Academic Libraries. If you are interested in running for a board seat, contact ragan.snead@neo-rls.org.
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| Free webinar on health resources available from the National Library of Medicine Want to learn more about resources available to help your patrons locate reliable health information?
Introduction to Network of National Libraries of Medicine Resources. Register Now! May 1st at 10am. The State Library of Ohio will be hosting a free webinar with Bobbi Newman, Community Engagement and Outreach Manager for the Network of the National Library of Medicine, Region 6 (which includes Ohio). Bobbi will be introducing library staff to many of the resources available from the National Library of Medicine. This webinar is intended for public library staff, and a Zoom link will be provided to registrants closer to the event date.
Register for the May 1st webinar at https://events.library.ohio.gov/event/14483582 |
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| Call For Proposals - Fact Check: Educating the Truth
Fact Check: Educating for the Truth will take place on June 18, 2025, at NEOnet, 700 Graham Road, Cuyahoga Falls, OH. This free event is sponsored by Kent State University's iSchool, the School of Media and Journalism, and the Ohio Educational Library Media Association. The deadline for proposals is April 30, 2025.
The focus of the event is combating disinformation and misinformation through education, providing strategies and resources to help participants address the challenges of misinformation in their respective fields.
Click here for more information. |
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| Kudos to Mary Anne Russo of Hubbard Public Library!
Mary Anne Russo, MLS has served as the Children’s Librarian and Supervisor of Youth Services at Hubbard Public Library (HPL) in Hubbard, Ohio since May 1988. Under Mrs. Russo’s innovative and inventive leadership, the Children’s Room at HPL provides a wide and diverse range of resources, programs activities and opportunities for children to experience joys and advantages of literacy and reading, and the excitement of discovery and imagination. She is also a talented and dedicated proponent and creator of intergenerational programs that involve children, their families/caregivers and residents from a local Senior Care facility (Elmwood).
Read more about Mary Anne Russo's accomplishments on the NEO-RLS website!
Email our Marketing & Engagement Coordinator Jill at jill.grunenwald@neo-rls.org if you have a story from your library you want to share. |
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