As we turn our attention to library boards, consider how an unexpected leadership vacancy can quickly expose the risks of operating without current bylaws. In moments of transition—especially during high-stakes decisions—the absence of clear governance guidelines can prevent a board from acting confidently and transparently, undermine public trust, and stall strategic initiatives due to procedural…
As we turn our attention to National Voter Registration Act (NVRA) compliance, consider the following scenario in which a well-intentioned effort to help patrons engage civically revealed how the absence of an implementation plan can lead to inconsistent practices, legal risk, and unintended harm to public trust. The Gotham Public Library—a fictional, small, rural library…
As we shift our attention to information security and privacy policies, consider the following scenario where a well-intentioned community event exposed how easily gaps in data-handling practices can put patrons at risk. The Gotham Public Library—a fictional, small, rural library in Texas—partnered yet again with the Madame Selina Kyle Foundation; this time to host a…
As we turn an eye to technology use policies, let us return to the land of imagination and visit the Gotham Public Library, a small rural Texas library that recently upgraded its computer area with new public workstations, expanded Wi-Fi access, and a makerspace laptop cart funded through a community grant from the Madame Selina…
Imagine that the Gotham Public Library, a small rural library in Texas, has recently received a request for help from its group of local homeschool families—the Arkham Angels—that is looking for appropriate young adult graphic novels for this year’s book club. In the past, the library had a brief, outdated collection development policy that didn’t…
What started out as a sizeable donation of custom-built video games from the county’s STEM club was quickly joined by the late Mr. Nguyen’s golden age Superman comics and his daughter’s childhood collection of rare Shojo manga—only to then be expanded by Ms. Gordon’s crafting overstock that was curated by the library’s teen advisory board…
Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) Federal Funding for Texas Libraries – TSLAC has created a one page document illustrating all of the programs and services funded for Texas libraries from the Institute of Museum and Library Services. Upcoming Opportunities These opportunities are available for free unless otherwise noted. Descriptions are provided by host organizations. Jerry…
Upcoming Opportunities These opportunities are available for free unless otherwise noted. Descriptions are provided by host organizations. Awards, Scholarships, Stipends, and Grants Now Open The Texas Library Association (TLA) offers awards and scholarships honoring excellence in, and contributions to, the library profession. In addition, TLA offers stipends to help defray the costs of attending Annual…
Upcoming Opportunities These opportunities are available for free unless otherwise noted. Descriptions are provided by host organizations. Collaborative Summer Library Program (CSLP) Newsletter The most recent edition features information about a survey requesting input for the 2028 slogan and 2029 theme. Read the CSLP newsletter online or subscribe and receive it in your inbox each month. Awards, Scholarships,…
Upcoming Opportunities These opportunities are available for free unless otherwise noted. Descriptions are provided by host organizations. Collaborative Summer Library Program (CSLP) Newsletter The most recent edition features information about this year’s Summer Symposium, the 2027 slogan and the 2028 theme, resources for inclusive programing as well as community outreach, and library success stories. Read the CSLP…