Supporting the People Who Make Libraries Thrive

Alabama’s professional development goal aimed to build library staff expertise and strengthen leadership through consulting, training, continuing education, and networking. This was especially important because many libraries were small or rural: over 60% of library directors did not have an MLS or MLIS degree, more than 20% of libraries had just one staff member, and respondents identified continuing education as a key need.

APLS funded consulting, professional training, and orientations for new directors. Its six consultants brought different library backgrounds and provided guidance tailored to local needs, including help with programming, technology, legal requirements, and library operations. Training included grants for staff pursuing library degrees and workshops on understanding community audiences and communicating effectively. New-director orientations covered practical topics such as planning, policies, grants, working with trustees, and serving people with disabilities.

During the pandemic, the programs moved online. Although consulting activity declined, libraries relied on APLS for help with closures, virtual programming, and other urgent challenges. New directors who attended orientations said they felt more confident and supported in their roles. The evaluators concluded that Alabama achieved this goal, citing the continued subgrant process and the support consultants and training provided to libraries. They recommended continuing this work in future years.

For more information, see the Alabama LSTA Evaluation report 2018-2022.