Service is the heart of libraries. This class will help you create the best possible array of services for your particular community.
You will learn how to assess your users’ needs, evaluate outreach opportunities, and leverage resources to provide superior service at your library. Explore, customer service, programming, reference fundamentals, and using technology to enhance services.
At a glance
When: Sept 19 – Dec 11, 2022
Where: Online
Cost: $425 (10% off if you register 2 weeks before the start date)
CE Credit: 3.5 CEUs/35 LEUs
Program#: 303523
Questions? Contact Meredith Lowe
Registration for this course is closed. If you are a Wisconsin grade 2/3 library director and must take this course this fall, please contact ce-info@ischool.wisc.edu for registration information.
Please use the online registration option. If you need alternate arrangements, email Meredith Lowe, mclowe@wisc.edu. Alternate registration options may result in delays.
Payment and Cancellation Policy
Login information will be emailed to you a few days before the course begins
Course description
This course is part of the Wisconsin Public Library Director Certification program.
This course is eligible for the Wisconsin Public Library Director Certification Course Scholarship.
Topics
- Community and user needs assessment
- Outreach to the community and community building
- Customer service
- Programming
- Readers’ advisory
- Reference interview
- Searching and research strategies
- Evaluating resources
- Legal/ethical issues in reference
- Training for staff and patrons to use resources
- Technology and physical space in service
- Networking with other institutions and professional allies
Expectations
Each week, you will be required to listen/read lectures, read/review resources, and participate actively in online discussions. There will be regularly scheduled assignments. The course is designed with working people in mind and assignments will be relevant and practical.
Instructor
Barbara Alvarez has nearly 12 years of experience with libraries and information organizations. She has worked in four different public libraries in two different states, as well as taught over 2,000 LIS students for three years. Barbara is passionate about the public library’s role in the community.