The Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners approved a legislative agenda for 2004 at their meeting on November 6th with two planks. The first plank makes no further cuts to state funds for libraries; the second continues the focus of this year's agenda, to restore core services. Core services include databases, delivery, automated networks, small libraries in networks, virtual catalog, MassCat, and journal article document delivery. We will pass on more details when they are released.

Mark your calendars for Advocacy Events:

The Massachusetts Library Association Intellectual Freedom Committee is holding workshops to help librarians understand the new laws and the implications for staff, trustees and patrons. Visit http://www.masslib.org/ for registration information.

November 19 - 9:30 - 12:30, Arms Library, Shelburne Falls
December 9 - 10:30 - 1:30, Morse Institute Library, Natick

Way and Means Day:

February 11, 2004 State House, Boston

Survivor: Library Success in Difficult Times:
An advocacy workshop, presented by the Massachusetts Library Association in partnership with NMRLS.

February 13, 2004 (tentative) - Date confirmation and site to be announced soon.

Library Legislative Day:

April 7, 2004 State House, Boston