CAMBRIDGE – Both the Cambridge and Hurlock branches of the Dorchester County Public Library were scheduled to be closed April 16 for a Professional Development Day. We are focusing on communication styles and differences, honing valuable public customer service and interpersonal skills, and discussing best practices for handling a wide variety of often unexpected situations in our public-facing buildings.

Library associates and librarians, along with teachers, are required to maintain certifications by completing continuing education credits under the Maryland Department of Education. Library staff maintain high levels of education and professional development, with official librarians required to have a master's degree in library science.

Recruitment and retention can be challenging, as salaries do not always reflect the educational requirements needed. As a nonprofit 501c3, increased funding would help support our library system, which provides invaluable services to our communities. Voicing your support for schools and libraries through local, state and federal government channels can make a huge positive impact.

As a nonprofit organization, we predominantly receive funding from the county and state to cover operational costs but must rely heavily on grants and donations from the Eastern Shore Regional Library, Friends of the Library, Maryland State Library Resource Center, and other organizations to purchase materials and equipment, including funding for library programs and events.

Donations and grants can drastically help support our humble $1,000-a-year children's programming budget (which encompasses both library branches) and thereby increase the amazing opportunities and experiences we can bring to the youth in our communities. We are grateful to those who have donated and offered support toward this year's Summer Reading Program and look forward to bringing more fun and exciting events and resources to our communities, as a result.

If you or someone you know would like to help support our library system, please visit our website's Support Us page at dorchesterlibrary.org/support-us for more information. While you're there, be sure to check out our Library Events Calendar and follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

Partner Update: Mid-Shore Behavioral Health has rescheduled their visit for the Cambridge Library lobby for April 30 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. They will be hosting an information table about their services for the community. Thanks to their partnership with the library, patrons can pick up free gun locks at either branch location.

We have so much to offer and hope to see you soon!

Julie Kennedy is assistant director/head of youth services, MLIS. Carolina Rodriguez is information services and adult programming library associate.