The State Library is pleased to introduce a new education and training portal for Missouri library staff, trustees and volunteers. This new portal, at mo.webjunction.org, is built to work in conjunction with the State Library’s official Web site and enhance the online resources already available for libraries at the national WebJunction.org site. WebJunction Missouri allows you to connect with your library peers, take mini-courses to update skills and keep up with Missouri library news — all at one central online location.
The Home page includes a Missouri Library News discussion list; libraries are invited to share their news and photos via the Missouri Library News Thread. This discussion list is a good place to post information about groundbreakings, new buildings and renovations; new library directors; election results; major donations and grants; or new services offered by your library. Several other areas of the site, such as youth services, adult services, grants, library management, technology tips, training resources and Missouri Digital Heritage among others, also host discussion lists. Identify your areas of interest, connect with your peers and get the conversations started!
Missouri Courses offers over 100 online trainings available at a discount. Course topics cover multiple aspects of library service, including but not limited to, managing technology, software applications, services to various library customer groups, management and planning. Most courses are self-paced, which provide staff and trustees the opportunity to enhance their knowledge and skill level at their convenience. Please review the course use policies posted at Missouri Course Policy. Missouri Courses also includes a new CE Calendar listing the offerings of the State Library, MLNC, MOREnet and other training providers in Missouri, with links for registering for the selected events.
Anyone can view information available on Webjunction Missouri, but you must establish your affiliation as a WebJunction Missouri member to post documents, join discussions and access the discounted online courses. To join, go to WebJunction Missouri and create an account. You will create a profile that includes the name of the library for which you work, volunteer, or serve as a trustee. On the Affiliations tab in your profile, check the box to join Missouri. Your request will be processed to verify your eligibility as a Missouri member within 1-2 business days and a confirmation e-mail sent.
State Library staff is eager to use our new online venue to engage with Missouri’s library community. Watch for more information on developments in WebJunction Missouri throughout the coming months. Your suggestions for expanding and improving this new means of learning, sharing ideas, and improving library services are welcome and encouraged.
From Barbara Reading, Library Development Director, Missouri State Library