Since 1988, Montana State University Library has supported the tribal college community by providing professiphoto of 2023 tcli participantsonal development opportunities.  Over time, this has transformed from supporting tribal colleges in Montana to hosting an annual institute with participants coming from tribal colleges across the U.S., Canada, and Australia. TCLI is solely funded through grants and donations. 

The Tribal College Librarian's Institute has become a strong program, informed and adapted annually to bring forward new issues and needs tribal colleges face. This work is coordinated by a MSU Librarian and an Advisory Board made up of members of the community.

 

2023 tcli yellowstone presentationEach June, the annual Institute is held at MSU, featuring presentations and learning sessions from members of the community as well as guest presenters from organizations and institutions.

Members participate in a community art project during the week, such as the beading work done in 2023.photo of tcli participant beading

Members also join with the MSU Friends of the Library book group for a joint book discussion. The Friends book group works with tribal librarians to identify a native author and book to mutually read. This is open to the campus community and a great time to come together and learn from each other's perspectives.