Library board certified

The Flathead County Library System board of trustees recently became the first library board in the state with every member certified through the Montana Certification Program for Library Directors, Staff and Trustees.

Two years ago, the board set the goal for each member to become certified.

The board has five members appointed to five-year terms by the county commissioners to represent a range of geographic areas

Members are Connie Leistiko (Kalispell), Al Logan (Bigfork), Jane Lopp (member-at-large), Michael Morton (Whitefish) and Elana Weaver (Columbia Falls).

 To become certified, trustees must complete 15 hours of continuing education within a four-year period.

Certification is required for all Montana public library directors, while certification for trustees and staff is voluntary. Approximately 70 percent of library staffers are certified, and all staffers are working toward certification.