Improving Relationships with Library Friends Groups: Webinar (08/16/18)

null A well-run library Friends group can be a great asset. It can raise money, advocate for the library in the greater community, recruit volunteers, and create events that support the community and provide PR for the library. However, a Friends group is a separate entity from the library, both legally and financially, which means neither the Friends group nor the library has legitimate authority to dictate what the other does. This isn’t a problem…until it is. Usually the triggering issues are over money and territory: who gets to dictate how raised funds are spent, how book sales are managed, how Friends volunteers are supervised on library property, and the library leaders dissatisfaction with the effectiveness of Friends’ activities.

The solution? While everyone is still speaking to each other, set written agreements in place to govern the relationships between the two organizations. Topics will include evaluating the pros and cons of book sales; building positive relationships between the Friends and library leadership; what are reasonable expectations, including roles and limits; what an agreement might include; and how to repair broken relationships before they impact the community the library and Friends group serve.

Participants will:

Create a draft agreement to present to the other side.
Have a plan in place to evaluate current book sale efforts.
Know the limits and roles of each organization, and use the information to create better relationships.

Virtual Trainer: Pat Wagner

Pat Wagner is a trainer and consultant with 40 years of experience working with libraries of all shapes and sizes. She has been a frequent visitor to Florida libraries and systems and was a presenter for several years with the Sunshine State Library Leadership Institute (SSLLI). She is known for her good-humored and practical programs.

This is an online class. Access information will be emailed one week ahead.

Cost: NEFLIN classes are free of charge for Florida library staff. Registration is required for all classes and NEFLIN members get priority.