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Chapter 8: Working with the Director
Section: Continuing Education
Because librarianship is always changing, it is important that the library director stay informed about innovations and advancements in the profession. Continuing education is the best way to do this. In fact, the director is required to participate in continuing education under the Public Library Standards, which the library must meet to be eligible for state aid. The standards state that directors must be certified through the Montana Library Certification Program. Certification and renewal of certification both specify the number of continuing education credits required and the time allowed for earning the credits. (See Appendix B, The Public Library Standards, and Chapter 7-9, Hiring the Director, for more on the Montana Library Certification Program.)
Because the continued education of the director is so important, the Board is strongly encouraged to support the director’s efforts to attend training. This includes both approval of time off with pay to travel to workshops and conferences, and financial assistance for registration fees and other expenses. A director should not be asked to attend continuing education opportunities on personal time or at personal expense. A director who is well trained and who continues to learn about the library profession is an asset to the library and the library’s patrons.
