Wednesday, March 2, 2011

MLA Library Legislative Day - March 1, 2011

I attended my first state Library Legislative Day ever this year! In addition to this being my first Library Legislative Day, it was also my first trip to the Minnesota State Capitol.
I have the privilege of being involved in libraries in a number of different capacities at this time, so it seemed like the most logical year to attend (not to mention the budget woes affecting the state!). I tried to keep all of these "hats" in mind as I was listening and sharing: college librarian, Marshall-Lyon County Board President, Plum Creek Governing Board member, and SAMMIE Planning Committee chair and Member Council representative.
I had an educational and interesting evening/day! I enjoyed listening to lobbyist Elaine Keefe on Monday evening and hearing her perspective on our library issues. On Tuesday I joined a librarian colleague from Southwest Minnesota State University for a private meeting with Representative Chris Swedzinski. We also joined a group of approximately 20 from the Plum Creek region to meet with Senator Gary Dahms.