In small communities, the public library is often much more than a place to check out books. It serves as a hub for learning, connection and support. One of the most important ways libraries strengthen their services is through partnerships with other community organizations.

Community partnerships allow libraries to work together with schools, parks, nonprofits, businesses and civic groups to better meet the needs of residents. By collaborating, these organizations can share resources, knowledge and ideas that help expand what the library can offer.

In many rural communities, libraries operate with limited staff and funding. Partnerships make it possible to provide programs and services that might otherwise be difficult to offer. For example, working with the local university extension office can help libraries share reliable information and programs with the public. The University of Missouri Extension has been a valuable partner to MCPL. MU Extension has provided classes on Mental Health First Aid, Diabetes Self-Management & Tai Chi, Families Eating Smarter & Moving More, Tai Chi, iCook classes for families and gardening classes for children and adults.

Collaborating with schools can support literacy and lifelong learning for children and families. MCPL partners with the Montgomery County R-II School District in a variety of ways. The library provides information and free books at the Back to School Nights at the elementary schools. During summer school, students take tours of the library. One of our librarians provides a “library” class each week of summer school. It focuses on stories, crafts, and activities. MCPL also creates book bundles (books on a theme or by an author) and orders books through inter-library loan for teachers.

Currently, we are partnering with the Montgomery County R-II High School for a Community Read and Discussion of The Boys in the Light by Nina Willner. The book follows the parallel journeys of two Jewish boys and a group of American soldiers in Company D, 32nd Armored Regiment, 3rd Armored Division during World War II. The Community Discussion will be on April 13 at 6:30 pm in the library’s Community Room. Adults and teens are invited to attend, even if you haven’t read the book.

MCPL partners with other organizations within Montgomery County to further literacy. Parents as Teachers and MCPL coordinate storytime lessons for babies and toddlers with their families. A librarian visits the Grace Homeschool Co-Op monthly to provide a storytime lesson to their youngest students. Youth in Need also invites a librarian as a guest reader to their classes. We also make book bundles or bring STEAM to Go kits or other library items to these organizations.

Partnerships also help libraries reach people who may not visit the building regularly. By working with organizations that serve seniors, families, or individuals facing challenges, libraries can connect people with books, information, and helpful resources. MCPL librarians visit the Aspire Health and Rehab of Jonesburg monthly to do programs with their clients. They especially like games and crafts. Another partnership is with the Developmental Disabilities Assistance Board (DDAB). They bring their clients to MCPL regularly for programs or to browse the bookshelves. The library is also working with the MCPL Friends of the Library and the Montgomery County Senior Center to create a service for book delivery to those who are homebound. We are awaiting funding so the project can move forward.

Another benefit is that partnerships allow libraries to respond more directly to the needs of their communities. By working together, the library and its partners can create programs and share resources that address those needs in meaningful ways. The library director sits on the Montgomery County Human Resource Council, which includes a variety of organizations that share information and work together to meet the needs of the communities. Our partnership with the Touch of Hope organization allows us to give Care Kits to anyone who needs one. The kits have shampoo, conditioner, soap and other hygiene essentials.

MCPL also works with the Montgomery County Literacy Council. The Literacy Council helps people get registered for adult learning classes through East Central College, provides the adult learning classes at Reach Church and offers scholarships to those taking the HiSet test.

Also, the Rugged Root Candy & Coffee Shop hosts our Introvert Book Club on the fourth Monday of the month from 1 p.m.-3 pm.

We often partner with the Department of Conservation for programming. For example, they provide pond management, hunting, gun safety and other programs throughout the year. Graham’s Cave State Park is another library partner. Librarians host storytimes for different park events. The rangers lead hikes at the park and give programs at the library.

The St. Vincent DePaul Society and MCPL collaborate on the Community Gardens, which are located on West Second Street and North Walker Street. St. Vincent DePaul Society provides the land and water for the gardens. MCPL provides the seeds, raised garden beds, tools and storage. The shed, gardening tools and gardening books originated from collaborations with the University of Missouri Extension and the School of Information Science & Learning Technologies at the University of Missouri.

Community collaboration also strengthens support for the library itself. When organizations work together, it highlights the important role the library plays in the community. This shared support can help when applying for grants, developing new programs or advocating for library services.

In rural towns, partnerships reflect the spirit of neighbors helping neighbors. By working together, local organizations and the public library can continue to provide valuable services that enrich the lives of residents and strengthen the entire community. Please contact me at 573-564-8022 or email me at mcplmo@gmail.com if your organization or business is interested in collaborating with the Montgomery City Public Library. We look forward to working with you!