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Advocacy

Throughout America, libraries must continually address issues that affect their operations and that threaten to limit or restrict access to information. Advocacy is an increasingly essential function in efforts to protect the interests of libraries and their users.

To meet this challenge, METRO is an active participant in many essential advocacy initiatives. Through our services, networking events and other resources, we also help members of the library community to take a more active role in advocacy initiatives.

Following are just some of the ways that METRO works to protect and promote the interests of the library community through advocacy:

  • METRO former Executive Director Dottie Hiebing has assumed leadership roles in state and national committees that have a direct impact on library operations. She recently served as Chair of the Steering Committee for the New York Online Virtual Electronic Library Committee (NOVEL), the organization that guides important action related to access to databases and digital content throughout the state.

  • METRO staff continues to meet regularly with legislators in Albany and in Washington, D.C., to present recommendations related to library policy and funding.

  • METRO senior staff members continually update library community representatives about relevant legislative issues and budget decisions.

  • METRO has a strong presence in Albany and meets with top legislators regularly. Since 2005,  a special program at METRO has helped over 250 legislators and legislative aids to learn how to use electronic databases - giving them hands-on experience with one of the most important services provided by libraries today. Throughout the year we also coordinate and join in legislative visits to our member library facilities.

  • Many METRO services, including training programs and seminars, the METRO newsletter, special communications and the METRO Web site, bring important perspectives and advice on vital issues to our members.

  • METRO's services also support important business and regulatory needs for members. Through consortial buying, our members can access products and services at more affordable rates. Through networking events and other programs, we help members of the library community to develop standards and policies that foster an environment of broader self-regulation.

  • METRO provides resources including data, training and expert advice to help library professionals measure and detail the impact of their work within the communities they serve and the organizations that support them.

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