Dana Barber, library director of the Margaret R. Grundy Memorial Library in Bristol, was one of three people honored with a 2023 Certificate of Merit from the Pennsylvania Library Association (PaLA).
Each year, the PaLA honors the service of its members, as well as those community volunteers, who go above and beyond the call of duty to support the work of libraries throughout the commonwealth.
Certificates of Merit are awarded to individuals making outstanding contributions during the last five years in Pennsylvania.
As a longtime contributor to the Pennsylvania Library Association, Barber has supported the organization in a variety of capacities and activities. Her leadership as the third vice president, membership chair has resulted in the success of many important projects.
The first-ever membership engagement survey was distributed, and the mentorship program created as a project by a leadership practicum is now sustained by the work of a subcommittee under Barber’s leadership. She was instrumental in strengthening the volunteer signup survey and has led a series of member orientation meetings for both new and “seasoned” members to ensure that the many benefits of membership are fully understood by all. Barber has personally followed up with phone calls and emails to members participating in these meetings.
With a willingness to try new ideas, Barber helped organize and launch the Membership Committee’s new conference buddy program, which will allow first-time conference attendees to make the most of their conference experience by being paired with a member who can “show them the ropes,” make introductions, and offer personal assistance.
In addition to her service on Pennsylvania Library Association committees, and in the Southeast Chapter of the Pennsylvania Library Association, she continually encourages members to take advantage of statewide or chapter professional development. As the director of the library, Barber also supports her staff in becoming members of the association, participating in professional development and continuing education opportunities.
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