
Calling all New Directors in the New Jersey Library Community!
Our annual New Directors Orientation will be offered as a virtual event this February. As a new director, the NJ State Library (NJSL) is here to support you in your role by offering basic training on a number of topics that are considered core knowledge for any leader of a public library in the state. Click here to view the agenda.
Topics Include
- Artificial Intelligence
- Library Law
- Working with Trustees and Elected Officials
- Budgeting
- Managing Library Staff
- Purchasing
- Strategic Planning
- and more!
Register and join us on the following dates
Please note that while this training is geared toward new library directors, all library directors are invited to attend!
- Wednesday, February 12, 2025 – 9:00 a.m. – 12:45 p.m.
- Wednesday, February 19, 2025 – 9:00 a.m. – 12:45 p.m.
Agenda Day 1
February 12, 2025 – 9:00 a.m. – 12:45 p.m.
Welcome
9:00 a.m.
Jen Nelson, NJ State Librarian at NJ State Library
Michele Stricker, Deputy State Librarian for Library Development at NJ State Library
AI At Work: Harnessing Artificial Intelligence in Public Libraries
9:05 – 10:15 a.m.
Bobbi Lee Slossar, Technology Librarian at the New Hampshire State Library
As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to evolve, its potential applications in public libraries and for our patrons are expanding. In this session, we will explore how AI can streamline daily tasks, enhance patron services, and provide librarians with a wide variety of tools to transform the way they work. Attendees will gain insights into practical AI applications, discuss ethical considerations, and leave with actionable strategies to integrate AI into their libraries, ensuring they stay at the forefront of innovation while maintaining their commitment to community service.
Bobbi Lee Slossar has dedicated nearly 19 years as the Technology Librarian at the New Hampshire State Library, where she leads efforts to bring innovative technology to public libraries. Her goal is to equip librarians with the skills and confidence to introduce new technologies into their communities. In her personal time, she enjoys seeing the world.
Library Law—Where to Find It
10:15 – 11:00 a.m.
Bob Keith, Director of Library Law, State Aid and Statistics, at NJ State Library
Break
11:00 – 11:15 a.m.
Working with Trustees
11:15 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Pat Massey, President of the NJ Library Trustee Association
Pat Tumulty, Library Consultant
Library Budgeting
12:00 – 12:45 p.m.
Michael Maziekien, Shared Services Consultant, at NJ State Library
Agenda Day 2
February 19, 2025 – 9:00 a.m. – 12:15 p.m.
Getting to know the NJ State Library
9:00 – 9:45 a.m.
- Library Development
- NJ State Research Library
- JerseyConnect
- Talking Book and Braille Center
- Marketing, Communications and Outreach
Managing Library Staff
9:45 – 10:30 a.m.
Leah Wagner, Director of the Monroe Township Public Library
Break
10:30 – 10:45 a.m.
Discipline, the Most Dreaded Task
10:45 – 11:30
Amy Behr-Shields, Director of the Summit Free Public Library
Marketing and PR
11:30 a.m. – 12:15 p.m.
Tiffany McClary, Director of Marketing, Communications, and Outreach, at NJ State Library
Questions and Wrap up
12:15 p.m.
-
Telehealth In Libraries Virtual Summit
Library Development, News
-
State Librarian’s Update – January 2025
About NJSL, News, Services for Libraries
-
Welcome to NJ State Library's Refreshed Website
About NJSL, News
-
Is the Jersey Devil the “Official” State Demon?
Research Library, Spotlight
-
Telehealth In Libraries Virtual Summit
Library Development, News
-
State Librarian’s Update – January 2025
About NJSL, News, Services for Libraries