ICYMI: 'United' E-Resources Unlocked For All Minnesotans

It’s not too late to form a New Years Resolution for 2026. We’re quite biased, of course, but would argue that redoubling our commitment to Friends of the Library work is a particularly worthy goal! If you’re interested in taking up that challenge and “leveling up” your library knowledge and Friends skills, look no further than the suite of e-resources available to all Minnesotans via United for Libraries.

United for Libraries is the Friends and trustee division of the  American Library Association. Last year, State Library Services (part of the Minnesota Department of Education) entered into a relationship with United that unlocks nearly all of its valuable educational resources to library staff, trustees, Friends, and other supporters in Minnesota.

Key resources now available to us all include:

• Learning Live: Monthly webinars on timely topics ranging from cutting-edge fundraising tactics, to intellectual freedom and book challenges, to board and member recruitment and retention.
   
• Toolkits and Tip Sheets: United has also curated a library (pardon the pun) of textual resources around themes like establishing or rejuvenating a Friends group, citizen library advocacy, and collaborating with community partners like service clubs and corporate sponsors.
   
• Short Takes for Trustees: A collection of “bite size,” 10-minute training videos intended to orient board members to their role and responsibilities. Specific topics range from governance fundamentals to self-evaluation and succession planning.

In order to claim your FREE access to the above and more, simply register here.