Metronet

Description

Metronet is one of seven state-funded multitype library networks created by the Minnesota Legislature in 1979. The multitype consortia serve all types of libraries-school, public, college and university, and special libraries-in their respective regions, Metronet's region is the seven county metropolitan area including the cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul. Each multitype consortium is governed by its own board of directors. The Metronet Board has four librarian members and five citizen members. The mulitypes operate under the authority of the Minnesota Department of Education, State Library Services. Because the needs of libraries differ across the state, each multitype's's strategic plan focuses on addressing library development issues peculiar to its region. More information about Metronet may be found at metrolibraries.net.

For Metronet, efforts have been directed towards fostering greater communication and collaboration among the types of libraries, addressing the need of librarians and library staff for convenient, tightly-packaged continuing education and professional development, promoting best practices and standards-based programs, stimulating innovation, and advocating on behalf of libraries. It has worked closely with several metro-area schools districts to help them integrate the teaching of information literacy and research as defined in Minnesota's K-12 Academic Standards by providing a year-long training opportunity for teachers and school librarians.