British Columbia Library Trustees Association BCLTA

YOUR NEW BOARD
The BCLTA membership elected a new Board of Directors at its 2012 AGM during the BC Library Conference on May 12 in Richmond, BC. Comprising representatives from every corner of the province, the new board brings expertise in law, accounting, business, civic government, and public service, among others. Read more about the BLTA board members and their background.

RESOLUTION MAKES UBCM AGENDA
An important resolution concerning the elimination of the library line item in the recent provincial budget was brought forward by the Vancouver Island Regional Library and passed by our members at the BCLTA AGM on May 12, 2012.

Thanks to Peace River Regional District representative Jerrilyn Schembri of Tumbler Ridge, the resolution has been accepted into this year’s UBCM voting package.

We encourage all library trustees to take every opportunity to inform and educate their municipal council and regional district representatives about this resolution to make sure they understand and will support it at the UBCM convention in September.

RENEWAL: THE YEAR AHEAD
A number of new initiatives to implement our strategic plan and better support our membership are underway. We have begun the process of revamping our educational programs, assembling an interdisciplinary committee to look at content, delivery and instructional components to make sure they are as meaningful and accessible as possible.

An Advocacy Committee has been set up to develop a blueprint for how best to represent our 77 member organizations to all levels of government. And we hope that the letters, calls and visits our board will be making to library boards around the province will begin a reinvigorated liaison process that will establish much closer ties between you and your Association.

TAKING THE LEAD

Formerly, Chairing the Board, is an advanced, full-day training program for new, existing and prospective library board chairs. The focus is on board and meeting effectiveness, as well as the unique role and responsibilities of the board chair. Sessions are offered on a cost-recovery basis throughout province upon member request.

British Columbia Library Trustees Association BCLTA

TRUSTEE ORIENTATION PROGRAM (TOP)

With support from the Libraries & Literacy Branch of the Ministry of Education, BCLTA is offering TOP workshops for $75 per person as well as ongoing travel subsidies.

This highly-regarded program is an ideal opportunity for your board to come together to review trustee roles and responsibilities, enhance your board’s effectiveness, and generate new ideas and enthusiasm. Sessions are delivered upon request, so call now to arrange a workshop in your community.

If you are unable to attend a live TOP workshop, check out TOP Online »

To arrange a TOP or Taking the Lead session in your community, please contact BCLTA
or British Columbia Library Trustees Association BCLTA 604.913.1424

BCLTA AND STUDENTS

The British Columbia Library Trustees Association (BCLTA) plays a pivotal role in enhancing the academic success of students by advocating for well-funded and resource-rich public libraries. By securing necessary funding and support at the provincial level, BCLTA ensures that libraries can provide students with access to a wide array of educational resources, including books, online databases, and research materials. This access to information is critical for students working on assignments, research projects, and general learning. Additionally, public libraries offer a quiet, safe environment conducive to studying and completing homework, which is essential for students who may lack a suitable space at home. Through BCLTA's efforts, libraries are able to maintain and improve these facilities, creating ideal learning environments for students. For students seeking additional academic support, libraries often provide information on various educational services, including custom essay writing services, ensuring that they have all the resources they need to succeed.

Moreover, BCLTA supports libraries in offering educational programs and services that directly benefit students. These include tutoring sessions, homework help, digital literacy workshops, and summer reading programs designed to prevent learning loss. By promoting the importance of libraries in lifelong learning and advocating for the resources needed to sustain these initiatives, BCLTA ensures that students have continuous opportunities for educational engagement outside the classroom. Public libraries also serve as community hubs, providing a space for students to engage in learning activities and connect with peers and mentors. Through BCLTA’s support, libraries can continue to foster community engagement and provide equitable access to educational opportunities, helping students from all backgrounds achieve academic success.