What does it mean to be a good partner in the community? Community collaborations are more than table-ing and more than just being at the table. Join a conversation about common barriers to community connections and explore key factors to fostering successful collaborations. Hear from professionals across the community including partners in nonprofit organizations, city departments, local schools, and other service providers sharing perspectives on how to nurture relationships beyond formal meetings. The panel discussion will address partner unreliability, fostering commitment and accountability, staff burnout, and how to develop deep and meaningful collaborations that sustain through years or decades, while prioritizing well-being within the partnership. This interactive session will provide tips on identifying good partners, incorporating existing community service initiatives into your library's goals, investing in understanding partners’ needs and aspirations, and provide attendees with an opportunity to ask candid questions to real community partners.
