Have you heard the name "Library Legislative Day" but just disregarded it because it didn't sound like something you'd want to participate in? Me too.
Last year I got involved because it was part of my job. I was apprehensive about going. At 6am I climbed the steps into the school bus leaving IFLS along with several others - many whom I did not know. What a surprise I got when we started mingling and planning our groups and getting hand outs on talking points. I was not alone and would be meeting with my legislators with a group of well-spoken people. It was fascinating to wander the capitol beforehand and it felt really good to be part of something that might make a difference for libraries. Even the bus ride back home after was full of conversation and laughter and maybe a little snoozing - what a great day it had been.
Stepping off the bus at 6pm, my feelings toward Library Legislative Day were really different from just 12 hours earlier. It felt great to have been a part of it and I was already looking forward to going again next year.
If you have any inkling go - I encourage you to do it. Ride the bus from IFLS if you can or at least meet up with the folks coming from the IFLS region when you are there.
Here is a link with lots of good information including the webinar Demystifying Library Legislative Day.
Remember to register so an appointment will be made for you.
Kathy O'Leary, Indianhead Federated Library System
