Informal "brown bag" discussions have become an easy way for library staff members to come together to discuss issues and share ideas. A group made up of assistant directors meets quarterly. We draw upon participants' input to plan agendas. Our last forum was held on May 13th at the Reading Public Library. Recent forum topics include staff scheduling, communications among staff, adult summer reading programs, and gift polices. Join us for our next Assistant Directors' Forum on August 19th at the Lucius Beebe Memorial Library in Wakefield.

The Summer Continuing Education Calendar is now online! Register online at http://www.nmrls.org/ce/ceform.shtml

A group of library program planners met on May 19th at NMRLS. Kathy Cryan-Hicks, Head of the Community Services Department at Chelmsford Public Library, discussed adult and intergenerational programming ideas. Participants shared information from their libraries of successful (or not) public programs.

A Scan Lab Open House was held at NMRLS on May 14th. Participants previewed the NMRLS digital library and got a first-hand look at the scanning and editing equipment available at NMRLS. Library, museum, historical society, and archives members are encouraged to contact NMRLS for information on using the scan lab.

On Tuesday, June 3, a group of us received a wonderful tour of the Essex Agricultural and Technical High School in Hathorne. The day was gorgeous and perfect for strolling through this unique High School. We learned how Hathorne got its name, listened to a short history of the school, and, most importantly, saw cows, llamas, birds, horses, and sheep! Our thanks to Superintendent/Director Gus Olson who was the tour master and shared many stories with the group. Watch for another tour next year and don't miss out on this extraordinary experience.