Partnership in the Archipelago

Public librarians can feel isolated, as if on islands, battered by the seas of change. We’ll explore ways libraries can build local capacity – in their communities and their libraries - by leveraging partnerships. Concepts discussed will include valuing the unique strengths in each of our libraries, capacity building as a reciprocal relationship between the library and its service community, and authentic partnership. Attendees will leave with two tools they can use immediately in their libraries.
MARGO GUSTINA Deputy Director, Southern Tier Library System Painted Post, NY she/her
Margo Gustina is an outspoken believer in the power of community to lead libraries toward more meaningful practice. As Deputy Director for the Southern Tier Library System, a cooperative which serves predominantly rural communities in New York State, Margo facilitates planning, funding, and governance conversations and processes.