Massachusetts Libraries to Receive Touchpoints Training
October 26, 2021
Matthew Perry
Communications Specialist
1-800-952-7403 x240
matthew.s.perry@state.ma.us
The Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners (MBLC) and Massachusetts Library System (MLS) are working with the Brazelton Touchpoints Center at the Boston Children’s Hospital to become an official Touchpoints training site for Massachusetts libraries. Touchpoints training will allow libraries to have more effective family and caregiver engagement.
“Libraries play an important role in supporting families,” said Lyndsay Forbes, Project Manager & Grants Specialist. “This opportunity will allow Massachusetts libraries to learn new ways to further assist families and caregivers in their communities.
Four Massachusetts public libraries will undergo training this fall, starting on October 19. Participants will commit to attending 8 weekly virtual sessions, complete related coursework, and attend at least 4 of 6 monthly reflection sessions that follow. The participating libraries are Bellingham Public Library, Pollard Memorial Library Lowell, Nevins Memorial Library Methuen, and Waltham Public Library. Massachusetts is the second state to offer Touchpoints in Libraries training after California.
The Brazelton Touchpoints Center (BTC) collaborates with providers, organizations, institutions, systems of care, and communities that understand that, in order to improve outcomes for children, they must engage more effectively with families. To reach as many families and other caregivers as possible, BTC works with health, education, and other family-facing providers who partner with families during children’s most formative years.
The Brazelton Touchpoints Center’s vision is for all children to grow up to be adults who can cope with adversity, strengthen their communities, constructively participate in civic life, steward our planet’s resources, and nurture the next generation to be prepared to do the same. The Center embodies Dr. Brazelton’s belief that when we strengthen families, we ultimately strengthen communities. BTC’s overarching goal is to ensure that all parents and caregivers work with supportive providers, feel confident in their parenting, and form long and resilient relationships with their children.
About MBLC
The Board of Library Commissioners (mass.gov/mblc) is the agency of state government with the statutory authority and responsibility to organize, develop, coordinate and improve library services throughout the Commonwealth. The Board advises municipalities and library trustees on the operation and maintenance of public libraries, including construction and renovation. It administers state and federal grant programs for libraries and promotes cooperation among all types of libraries through regional library systems and automated resource sharing. It also works to ensure that all residents of the Commonwealth, regardless of their geographic location, social or economic status, age, level of physical or intellectual ability or cultural background, have access to essential new electronic information technologies and significant electronic databases.