The evaluation of the library director in most NH libraries is the responsibility of the Board of Trustees, who should have policies in place for this process, connecting it to the appropriate job description. See NHLTA for more info & forms:  https://www.nhlta.org/resourcesmaterials.asp

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Library Staff Evaluations: 

Performance Evaluations: What Not to Do

7 Modern & Actionable Performance Appraisal Methods 

VIRTUAL PRIVACY LAB

Learn about privacy topics and generate a custom privacy toolkit geared towards your online needs. Toolkits include links, tips, and resources that empower you to customize your online identity. Email or print your privacy toolkit for future use.

New Futures is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization that advocates, educates, and collaborates to improve the health and wellness of all New Hampshire residents through policy change.

Thank you to those who were able to join the training on 6/27/23! Here is the link to the recording.

Here is link to the folder with a copy of the slides and various resources to help you with your advocacy.

Please fill out this evaluation form of the training if you have not already.

If you are interested in receiving action alerts from New Futures on certain issues we work on, please fill out the linked form.

Thank you again, and do not hesitate to reach out with questions now or in the future!

What is De-escalation? the act of moving from a state of high tension to a state of reduced tension.

Public libraries are increasingly being asked to expand their services to include more mental health support, acting as community hubs where people can access resources and basic mental health assistance, often through staff training in mental health first aid, partnerships with mental health professionals, and providing accessible information on mental wellbeing through programs and materials

By practicing de-escalation tools like active listening and mindful body language, library staff feel more equipped to manage challenging situations. This not only helps in keeping patrons safe but also enhances job satisfaction and staff retention, making your library a more supportive workplace.

De-escalation Techniques

• De-Escalation Techniques for Real-Life Programming Scenarios

  By Hannah Arata, ALA Public Programs Office, Programming Librarians (May 26, 2022)

• De-escalation: A Crucial Tool in Libraries for Promoting Intellectual Freedom

  Steven Ward, Forsyth Public Library, Illinois Library Association (June 1, 2023)

• Pocket Guide to De-escalation (Georgia Libraries)

• Sunday Reflections: That Delicate Balance Between Quality Patron Services and Employee Personal Boundaries

  Karen Jensen. The Teen Librarian Toolbox (January 21, 2018)

• How can I de-escalate a situation when someone is angry or agitated?

  New South Wales Health (July 12, 2023)

• Safety in Libraries (Vermont Department of Libraries)

  Joy Worland (July 2023)

• Communication Styles (Think Cultural Health)

  Keep in mind communication styles and how they tend to vary across cultures.

De-escalation Trainings

• The NH State Library Niche Academy has multiple free

  de-escalation courses: https://my.nicheacademy.com/nhsl-staff

• Homelesslibrary.com

  This website provides free introductory online de-escalation training specifically designed for library staff interacting with individuals experiencing homelessness. 

• Crisis Prevention Institute Verbal Intervention Training

  Presented by Michelle Eberle, MLS, Certified CPI Verbal intervention Trainer
  In-person trainings at Mass. Library System offices (spring 2024)

• De-escalation Strategies for Libraries, Archives, and Museum Staff

  WebJunction Self-paced Course (1 hour)

• When Not to Call the Cops (webinar recording)

  Jarrett Dapier and Emily Knox. BCALA (March 22, 2021)

• De-escalation Training for Libraries (Library Journal)

  May 30, 2024 at 2 PM ($89- $106)

• Defend Yourself: Safer Libraries

  4 hour workshops