Save the date: ACLU webinar on Act 150/S.209 (prohibiting civil arrests on library premises) for library staff and volunteers on Monday, August 17

Members of the Vermont ACLU’s legal team will join VLA to lead a webinar for library staff and volunteers on Act 150 and navigating interactions with immigration enforcement on Monday, August 17 from 12:00 to 2:00 PM. Act 150, signed into law last month, prohibits civil arrests (including most immigration-related arrests) on public library premises. This webinar will include the ACLU’s “Know Your Rights” training tailored for libraries, information about the new law, guidance on how libraries can protect themselves and their patrons through robust policies, tools for identifying judicial and administrative warrants, and instruction on handling situations in which ICE disobeys the law. The webinar, which will be recorded and available to VLA members after the event, will be followed by an un-recorderd Q&A session in which participants will have the opportunity to ask questions or request more specifics on any of these topics. Join from PC, Mac, iPad, or Android: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/85173739350?pwd=EP2mKvgjiJXlxTuKN2eh8DJ6gaKwZ5.1

– Posted 8/2/26

Vermont Library Association Honors 2026 Award Recipients at Annual Conference

The Vermont Library Association (VLA) annually presents five awards during the annual conference for outstanding service to and support of the state’s libraries. The 2026 recipients, honored at the June 1 annual conference, are:

Birdie Award
Richard Pritsky, Assistant Director, Carpenter-Carse Library, Hinesburg, and Vermont Organization of KOHA Automated Libraries (VOKAL) Executive Committee member

Sarah C. Hagar Award
Starr LaTronica, Director, Brooks Memorial Library, Brattleboro

Trustee of the Year Award
Michael Epstein, Chair of the Board of Trustees, Mary L. Blood Memorial Library, Brownsville

Senator Patrick Leahy Library Advocate of the Year Award
Senator Ruth Hardy (D), Addison County District, Seat 19

There was no Green Mountain Award recipient this year.

In addition, these retiring librarians were honored:
Starr LaTronica, Director, Brooks Memorial Library, Brattleboro
Richard Pritsky, Assistant Director, Carpenter-Carse Library, Hinesburg
Theresa Czachor, Library Assistant, Chittenden Public Library
Erna Deutsch, Assistant Youth Librarian, Brownell Library, Essex Junction

VLA’s Scholarship and Awards Committee is charged with overseeing  VLA’s five awards, with defining, overseeing, and funding scholarship opportunities for professional development and graduate studies in library science, and with honoring retirees at the annual conference. Nominations for the Senator Patrick Leahy Library Advocate of the Year Award are provided by VLA’s Government Relations & Advocacy Committee.

June 12, 2026 -sl

Do Your Library’s Book Challenge Policies Meet the Current Moment?

The American Library Association (ALA) came out with their State of America’s Libraries report in April, including the Top Ten Most Challenged Books (well, eleven because there were a few ties).
 
 
I’d like to draw your attention to the one fact that I think we, as library workers, need to consider…
 
In 2025, 92 percent of all book challenges were initiated by pressure groups, government officials, and decision makers…. Less than 3 percent of challenges originated from individual parents.
 
I don’t know how ALA differentiates between a pressure group and an individual parent influenced by a pressure group. I’ll also note that 40 percent of them came from library boards or administration (which is different, in this report from “government/legislative” challenges). Just over half of these challenges originated in public libraries.
 
Obviously this news is lousy in some ways. But I think it also gives us an opportunity to reflect on our current book challenge policies and make sure they are meeting the current moment. I know many if not most of us have policies that have been fairly recently updated, thanks to proactive work by the Department of Libraries. But if your policies could use a bit of a refresh to take this data into account, now’s certainly the time.
 
In Solidarity,
Jessamyn West
VLA Digital Communications Team
If your library faces a challenge to library resources, please email VLA’s Intellectual Freedom Committee’s Rapid Response Team at ifc@vermontlibraries.org  Here is information that would be useful to include:
  1. Date of Challenge
  2. Type of Library (example: public, school)
  3. Description of the work or resource (example: title/author, title of program)
  4. Format of the work or resource (example: book, audiovisual, program, exhibit)
  5. Audience for work or resource (example: adult, child YA)
  6. Reason given for challenge
  7. Description given of challenge initiator (example: board member, elected official)
  8. Organization behind challenge, if applicable
  9. Status of challenged material (example: removed, recategorized, no change)
  10. Any media coverage?
Please do not include any personally identifiable information about who initiated the challenge.
If you need immediate assistance, please call Randal Smathers at the Rutland Free Library 802-773-1860 or email randal@rutlandfree.org

Vermont Library Association 2026 Award Nominations Due May 1

Help the Vermont Library Association acknowledge your colleague by nominating them for one of the following awards. The nomination deadline is Friday, May 1, 2026.

The Birdie Award, for outstanding service in the field of technical services.

The Green Mountain Award, for distinguished service, support, or unusual contribution to a library or libraries.

The Sarah C. Hagar Award, for exceptional service or a significant contribution to librarianship.

The Trustee of the Year Award, for outstanding achievement by a library trustee.

To place a name in nomination for these awards, complete the appropriate online nomination form:

Nominations for a fifth award, the Senator Patrick Leahy Library Advocate of the Year Award, are provided by the Government Relations & Advocacy Committee.

Honoring Retirees
Are you retiring or know a librarian who is? If that librarian is also a VLA member, we want to honor them at the annual Vermont Library Conference. Email pcartier@vermontlaw.edu with their name, library, and position.

Recognition
Award recipients will be announced at the annual Vermont Library Conference on Monday, June 1, 2026, at the University of Vermont’s Howe Library. Support all Vermont librarians by recognizing those special colleagues, mentors, trustees, and/or library supporters who help create the community that we value and who give us reason to celebrate.

Questions?
For more information, visit the Vermont Library Association Scholarship and Awards Committee webpage, or email committee chairperson Pamela Cartier at pcartier@vermontlaw.edu

Last updated April 4, 2026 (sl)

 

 

VLA Program-Smarter, Not Harder: Upgrade Your Library Workflows with the Power of AI!

When: March 23, 2026 10:00, EDT
Where: Hartland Public Library   153 US Route 5, Hartland VT

or on Zoom https://vermontlibraries.wildapricot.org/event-6552941

$10 VLA Members                 $15 Non-Members

Librarians wear a lot of hats — and AI might just be the one that ties them all together. This practical, two-hour session is designed for library professionals who want to cut through the AI hype and get straight to work with what’s actually useful. You’ll see AI tools demonstrated in real library scenarios — drafting PR assets for your next program, fielding a tricky reference or tech support question, developing policies or writing monthly reports, analyzing datasets, creating slideshows, and so much more. No jargon. No coding. No tech background required. 

We’ll explore low-barrier, budget-friendly AI tools that fit the pace and values of library work — and we’ll be honest about their limits. Conversations about privacy, bias, accessibility, and patron trust are built right into the session, because responsible AI use isn’t an afterthought in libraries. It’s the whole point.

Mark Glisson is the Assistant Director of the Hooksett Library in Hooksett, NH, bringing nearly 24 years of experience in public librarianship. He specializes in technology support, digital literacy, and staff training, helping both patrons and colleagues navigate an ever‑changing tech landscape. Mark also serves as Co‑Chair of the NHLA‑ITS Section, where he contributes to statewide conversations on innovation and infrastructure. His professional passion lies in staying ahead of emerging technologies and fostering positive, accessible user experiences—especially in areas such as cybersecurity and artificial intelligence.

You can attend in person, or register to attend through zoom.

Bill Would Establish Vermont Libraries Day, Provide Financial Resources to Public Libraries

Vermont Senate Bill S232, sponsored by Sen. Ruth Hardy, D-Addison, would name the third Monday in October “Vermont Libraries Day.”

S.232 would also allocate a portion of the state’s sales tax on cannabis to public library programs, and would enable libraries to receive guidance from the Vermont Bond Bank about eligibility for municipal bonds. Margaret Woodruff, director of  Charlotte Library and chair of the Vermont Libraries Association’s Government Relations Committee, said many Vermont libraries face huge capital needs to offer spaces that are safe and accessible to everyone. She cited state data showing that library buildings have $260 million of deferred maintenance.

Hardy said the passage of S.232 would not result in new taxes or appropriations. The bill has eight additional sponsors and support from librarians across the state.

For more information, see “Bill would establish Vermont Libraries Day in October.”

 

 

Webinar: Digital Decluttering for Your Mind and the Planet

𝐃𝐢𝐠𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐃𝐞𝐜𝐥𝐮𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐅𝐨𝐫 𝐘𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐌𝐢𝐧𝐝 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐏𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐞𝐭
𝐓𝐡𝐮𝐫𝐬𝐝𝐚𝐲, 𝐅𝐞𝐛. 𝟐𝟔, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔
𝟐 𝐩.𝐦. 𝐄𝐒𝐓
𝑷𝒓𝒆𝒔𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒆𝒅 𝒃𝒚: 𝑺𝒂𝒓𝒂𝒉 𝑻𝒓𝒊𝒃𝒆𝒍𝒉𝒐𝒓𝒏, 𝑺𝒄𝒊𝒆𝒏𝒄𝒆𝒔 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑺𝒖𝒔𝒕𝒂𝒊𝒏𝒂𝒃𝒊𝒍𝒊𝒕𝒚 𝑳𝒊𝒃𝒓𝒂𝒓𝒊𝒂𝒏, 𝑺𝒂𝒏 𝑫𝒊𝒆𝒈𝒐 𝑺𝒕𝒂𝒕𝒆 𝑼𝒏𝒊𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒔𝒊𝒕𝒚
Building on the Sustainable Libraries Initiative webinar regarding AI and the environment, Sarah Tribelhorn will explore how personal digital habits directly impact the world around us. Storing vast amounts of data requires significant energy; by deleting unnecessary files and emails, you can reduce energy consumption and lower your carbon footprint. Furthermore, reducing the amount of data we store lessens the need for the massive hardware housed in data centers, helping to minimize e-waste and extend the lifespan of your personal devices. In addition to environmental sustainability, this webinar will focus on how a “digital detox” supports your mental well-being. A cluttered digital environment often leads to feelings of overwhelm, whereas clearing out digital “junk” can reduce stress and anxiety, improve focus, and boost mental clarity. We will guide you through simple, actionable steps to start your journey, such as deleting unused apps, organizing and deleting duplicate photos, and clearing out downloads, documents and trash folders to free up space. By the end of this session, you will have the tools to foster sustainable digital habits that benefit both your productivity and the planet. Details and registration are at this link: https://www.sustainablelibrariesinitiative.org/event/digital-decluttering-your-mind-and-planet-18706

AI and the Environment Webinar

The Sustainable Libraries Initiative presents “AI and the Environment,” a Thursday, Jan. 22, 2026, webinar with Sarah Tribelhorn, Sciences and Sustainability Librarian at San Diego State University, exploring the environmental impacts of artificial intelligence (AI). Tribelhorn will provide a foundational overview of AI: what it is, how it works, and how it’s increasingly integrated into everyday life. Then she will discuss the environmental footprint of AI technologies, including energy consumption, data center demands, and electronic waste. Participants will gain insights and practical knowledge to help foster informed conversations with their community about responsible technology use and its role in a sustainable future. The webinar begins at 2 p.m. EST. Register at AI and the Environment Webinar.

Vermont Library Association (VLA) members are eligible for one year’s free membership in the Sustainable Libraries Initiative, thanks to a memorandum of understanding between the two organizations. VLA Government Relations & Advocacy Committee Chair Margaret Woodruff says the membership includes free access to programming and a 20 percent discount for the Sustainable Libraries Certification Program (SLCP).

To receive your free membership:

1 – Visit the Sustainable Libraries Initiative Vermont Library Association Membership page.

2 – Choose your membership type and complete the form.

3 – At the “How did you hear about us?” prompt select “Other,” and then enter your VLA membership number in the notes field to waive the membership fee.

For information about the 20 percent discount for the Sustainable Libraries Certification Program, email sliadmin@suffolknet.org

12.11.25 sl

Firewood Moisture Content Meters Available for Loan at 63 Vermont Libraries

Vermonters can borrow a moisture meter for free from among 63 Vermont public libraries, thanks to a statewide loan program from the Vermont Department of Libraries and the Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC). “To prevent poor air quality and safeguard public health, it is key to follow proper wood burning practices,” said DEC Commissioner Misty Sinsigalli. “Using dry, seasoned wood reduces smoke, cuts air emissions, and protects our families, neighbors, and the environment.”

Using this hand-held device, persons can ensure their firewood is dry — with 20 percent moisture or less — before burning. Dry, seasoned wood burns hotter and cleaner than wet wood, saving both money and energy, while making less smoke, according to Sinsigalli. During the wintertime, residential wood smoke is a main contributor to fine particle pollution and is responsible for poor air quality days, especially on calm, clear, and cold winter nights.

PARTICIPATING LIBRARIES

Arlington – Martha Canfield Memorial Library

Barre City – Aldrich Public Library

Barre Town – Aldrich Public Library – East Barre

Bennington – Bennington Free Library

Bradford – Bradford Public Library

Brandon – Brandon Free Public Library

Brattleboro – Brooks Memorial Library

Bristol – Lawrence Memorial Library

Cambridge – Varnum Memorial Library

Canaan – Alice M. Ward Memorial Library

Castleton – Castelton Free Library

Charlotte – Charlotte Library

Chester – Whiting Library

Clarendon – Bailey Memorial Library

Craftsbury – Craftsbury Public Library

Enosburg – Enosburg Public Library

Greensboro – Greensboro Free Library

Groton – Groton Free Public Library

Hardwick – Jeudevine Memorial Library

Hartford – Hartford Library

Hyde Park – Lanpher Memorial Library

Jericho – Deborah Rawson Memorial Library

Johnson – Johnson Public Library

Ludlow – Fletcher Memorial Library

Lyndon – Cobleigh Public Library

Marshfield – Jaquith Public Library

Middlebury – Ilsley Public Library

Montpelier – Kellogg-Hubbard Library

Morristown – Morristown Centennial Library

Newfane – Moore Free Library

Newport City – Goodrich Memorial Library

Northfield – Brown Public Library

Norwich – Norwich Public Library

Orwell – Orwell Free Library

Pawlet – Pawlet Public Library

Pittsford – Maclure Library

Peacham – Peacham Library

Poultney – Poultney Public Library

Pownal – Solomon Wright Library

Proctor – Proctor Free Library

Putney – Putney Public Library

Quechee – Quechee-Wilder Library

Randolph – Kimball Public Library

Richford – Arvin A. Brown Public Library

Richmond – Richmond Free Library

Rochester – Rochester Public Library

Rockingham – Rockingham/Bellows Falls Library

Rutland City – Rutland Free Library

Salisbury – Salisbury Free Public Library

South Burlington – South Burlington Public Library

South Hero – Worthern Library

Springfield – Springfield Town Library

St. Johnsbury – St. Johnsbury Athenaeum

Starksboro – Starksboro Public Library

Stowe – Stowe Free Library

Strafford – Morrill Memorial and Harris Library

Townshend – Townshend Library

Vernon – Vernon Free Library

Warren – Warren Public Library

Waterbury – Waterbury Public Library

Wells River – Baldwin Memorial Library

West Rutland – West Rutland Free Library

Westminster – Butterfield Library

Windsor – Windsor Public Library

For more information, visit the Firewood Moisture Meter Loan Program webpage.

VLA 2025 Graduate Student Scholarship Applications Due November 15

The Vermont Library Association (VLA) Scholarship & Awards Committee is accepting applications for the 2025 Graduate Student Scholarship. Up to $1,500 is available for a VLA member pursuing an MLS or MLIS degree.

To be eligible, applicants must:

– be enrolled in an MLS/MLIS program;
– be an active VLA member;
– live in Vermont and/or work in a Vermont library, and;
– not have received a scholarship from VLA in the past two years.

The application deadline is Saturday, Nov. 15, 2025, with the scholarship sent to the institution for the spring 2026 semester. For complete details and to apply visit the VLA Graduate Student Scholarship webpage.