Spring 2026 Advisory Council Training Series

The MMLL Advisory Council is hosting a spring series of focused, hands-on training sessions designed to support directors in the day-to-day realities of running small and rural libraries. Meetings are held via Zoom on the second Thursday of each month at 2:00 pm, unless otherwise noted.

April 9
Understanding the OverDrive Collection
Speaker: Katie Strong, Account Manager, OverDrive
This session offers a clear, practical look at how OverDrive collections work and how directors can make the most of them. Katie will also walk through OverDrive Advantage and Advantage Plus, helping libraries understand how these options can strengthen local collections and improve patron access.

May 7*
The Accidental Facilities Manager
Presenters: Andrea Bunker and Heather Backman
Library Building Consultants, Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners
Many directors find themselves managing buildings without formal training. This session, led by two experienced library building consultants, will demystify facilities oversight, maintenance planning, and the everyday decisions that keep library spaces safe, functional, and welcoming.
*Program will be held on the first Thursday of the month rather than the second.

June 11
Staff Turnover and Onboarding
Presenter: Andrea Ingmire, Library Director
Peter White Public Library (Marquette, MI)
Andrea will share practical strategies for onboarding, cross-training, and building continuity in small teams. With staff turnover affecting libraries of all sizes, this session focuses on scalable approaches that strengthen operations and support new employees

Zoom details can be found on the Advisory Council page here.