FY2026 Advocacy Committee Priorities
Create a Plan for Board Training on How Local Libraries are Funded
Define Library Funding Advocacy Plan purpose
Advocacy Committee Procedures:
How is your library funded? Make a copy of this worksheet, insert your local data.
Advocacy Committee Charge:
Plans advocacy activities that support SELCO, SELS or Member Libraries and informs the board of pending state or federal legislation affecting libraries.
Committee Meetings:
December 16, 2025
February 17, 2026
April 21, 2026
June 16, 2026
Attend Library Legislative Day in person - February 25, 2026
Responsibilities of the Advocacy Committee:
Provide guidance on advocacy matters and knowledgeable leadership on advocacy activities.
Past tasks of the committee include:
Create/curate resources (review and update)
Gather intel on legislators
Build relationships with legislators
Participate in the MN Library Association’s (MLA) Library Legislative Day
Plan advocacy training for the SELCO board
Monitor state and federal policies and legislation that affects the organization as well as all types of libraries
Inform SELCO and SELS member libraries about legislative issues affecting libraries
Promote the value of libraries to local, state, and federal agencies and legislators
Work closely with the Minnesota Library Association and other external groups to integrate advocacy efforts into a cohesive message
Encourage participation in state and national library legislative day activities
Advocate for sufficient funding to support regional library programs and services.
Assist in strengthening the advocacy skills of the Board and member library staff.