There was good reason every East Central Regional Library location closed their doors on Thursday, Sept. 27. Employees of all positions gathered for the annual All Staff Day at the Braham Event Center to become better equipped in providing library service to patrons and communities across East Central Minnesota.
Facilitating a strategic planning session, Janice Jaguszewski, from the University of Minnesota, asked the group to consider the scenario of the library being a highly valued community asset in the year 2025. Staff responded with many ideas to reach that end. Staff feedback will be used as East Central Regional Library writes a new strategic plan.
The afternoon program featured Kevin Brennan, of Top 20 Training, who used humor and personal experiences to help show we can make a positive difference with others through social-emotional development. The message resonated with staff members who learned what it means to live “Above the Line” and bring their best self to work.
Carla Lydon, Executive Director, and Rachel Howell, Assistant Director, honored staff members for their years of service to East Central Regional Library. Recognized for five years of service were Steven Anderson, Branch Assistant, Mora Public Library; Adam Kehn, Branch Assistant, Cambridge Public Library; Mary Moline, Branch Assistant, Cambridge Public Library; Kay Rorvick, Branch Assistant, North Branch Area Library; Renae Shaw, Interlibrary Loan, ECRL Headquarters; and Terese Wigand, Branch Assistant, Pine City Public Library.
Recognized for 10 years of service were Executive Director Carla Lydon and Andy Nordin, Systems Administrator. Recognized for 15 years of service was Betty Evans, Branch Assistant, Milaca Community Library. And recognized for 20 years of service was Ann Doble, Branch Assistant, Chisago Lakes Area Library.
The mission of East Central Regional Library is to strengthen communities by connecting people with resources, spaces, and educational experiences that enrich and empower their lives. East Central Regional Library provides library service in East Central Minnesota: Aitkin, Chisago, Isanti, Kanabec, Mille Lacs, and Pine counties.