Friday, August 21, 2009
How many people have to be offended before we ban a book?
As I read another headline about a banned book, I wondered just when do we accept that a book should be banned? If the material offends 1 person, 10, or over 1,000,000? Seems to me that we either believe in the freedom of information - even when we are personally offended, or we don't. The current headline was about Brooklyn's Chief Librarian banning Tin Tin Au Congo - a book that is racially offensive to some (most?). Whether anyone finds it offensive or not is irrelevant. Do we ban materials? I would guess almost every item in a library's collection would offend someone - somewhere. We can't scream against banned books - and then ban the ones we find personally offensive - that is censorship.
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Geek the Library
A great reminder - check out the Geek the Library website.
"Whatever You Geek, The Public Library Supports It All"
Get your geek on. Support the library.
Geek the Library is a community-based public awareness campaign designed to highlight the vital role of public libraries for individuals and communities, and raise awareness about the critical funding issues they face.
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Microsoft in violation selling Word........
Texas judge Leonard Davis has ordered Microsoft to pay 290 million dollars to the company that owns XML for patent infringement. He also ordered the company to stop selling the ever popular Microsoft Word Product.
See the complete article
See the complete article
Monday, August 10, 2009
Open Up Your Library
Jenny Levine, The Shifted Librarian, posted the DOK photo - love the idea of the top shelves removed........it sure makes the library look more open and friendly in my opinion. 
Thursday, August 06, 2009
Register Your School Library for GiggleIT project
The GiggleIT Project is a global collaborative publishing project hosted by the International Association of School Librarianship (IASL), working in partnership with theInternational Children's Digital Library (ICDL).
The GiggleIt Team recognises the potential of using the digital library to promote cultural understandings, while encouraging children's literacy skills development. Humour is a wonderful "feel good" motivator.
GiggleIT is also registered with the International Year of Reconciliation as an example of how people around the world can connect with each other.GiggleIT - Tutorial -
http://www.iasl-online.org/sla/giggleIT-tutorial/index.htm
GiggleIT - Professional Development Manual - http://www.iasl-online.org/sla/
Wednesday, August 05, 2009
NTRLS looking for writers for webpage!
Writer’s Guidelines
Thank you for your interest in contributing to ntrls.org. Our goal is to provide some guidance and direction in our daily tasks at the library. Please see below for a list of upcoming themes for our website. If you are interested in submitting an article, please read these guidelines carefully.
General Information
- Featured Articles readership consists of people from all areas of librarianship, with varying degrees of expertise. Please keep this in mind when writing articles.
- Write in the first person, and do not use passive voice.
- Please do a check of all Web addresses in your article to ensure they are accurate and current before you turn it in.
Document Submission Format
- If possible, please email documents to awright@ntrls.org as a Microsoft Word file. If you are mailing your submission, use the address below. We will not return submissions.
- Please include your name in the filename of your document. For example: JoeSmithRFID.doc
- Do not indent paragraphs; rather, leave a blank line in-between paragraphs. Single space
- Do not use endnotes, headers, or footers.
- Please use italics when you refer to book or magazine titles. Do not italicize names of software, databases, or Web sites.
- After the full text of your article, please include brief biographical information. For example: Name, title, organization and city. Then mention any related projects or special experience. Finish with your email address.
- If you are going to include any bibliographic references or suggestions for further reading, please include them after your biographical information under the title “References/Further Reading.”
Art Submission Format
- Do not embed art within your text. If you are sending accompanying pictures, charts, etc., each graphic must be sent as a separate file. We prefer .jpg or .gif files.
Length
- Articles should be between 500 and 1500 words in length.
Compensation
- At this time, authors are not compensated for articles.
Conflicts of Interest
To avoid real and perceived conflicts of interest, ntrls.org will not accept articles about subjects from writers who may have a potential financial conflict with the work. We ask that writers tell us about any such work they do in the field. The editors will evaluate on a case-by-case basis whether a conflict exists.Copyright
Ntrls.org requests one-time electronic rights to publish your material on the website. The copyright for the work remains with you. If you submit the same article to another publication, please inform that publisher that the article first appeared on ntrls.org.Mailing Address
North Texas Regional Library System, Inc.6320 Southwest Blvd., Ste. 101
Fort Worth, TX 76109
Date Subject
September 2009 - TexShareOctober 2009 - Keeping Your Bookclub Fresh
November 2009 - Patron Privacy in the 21st Century
December 2009 - To Buy or Not To Buy – Is a Review Required?
January 2010 - Doing a Job Fair in Your Library
February 2010 - Supporting Your Support Staff
March 2010 - Microsoft Office, Open Office and Google Docs – a Comparison
April 2010 - Accessibility Fairs – Lessons Learned
May 2010 - Technology Trends
June 2010 - Publishing 2.0 – How Self-Publishing is Evolving
July 2010 - Ebooks
August 2010 - Libraries of the Future
Help with Reader's Advisory
Check out FictionDB for all types of information concerning authors and books. Great information on series, what to read next and listings for all books published by a particular author.
Everything you need to know about fiction books and authors
Find complete author book lists (bibliographies)
Discover books in a series
Read descriptions of individual books
Search over 250,000 titles using multiple criteria
Keep track of what you're reading
Tuesday, August 04, 2009
Job Posting - Literacy Coordinator
North Texas Regional Library System, Inc
Applications will be accepted through August 18, 2009. Please send a resume with a cover letter to awright@ntrls.org, or send to:
Adam Wright
Executive Director
North Texas Library Partners
Home of the North Texas Regional Library System
6320 Southwest Blvd, Suite 101
Fort Worth, Tx 76109
JOB TITLE: Libraries for Literacy Coordinator Exempt
Salary: $42,000 with a comprehensive benefits package.
POSITION FUNCTION: Under the general supervision of the Executive Director, assumes responsibility of all aspects of the Libraries for Literacy program including overseeing the various programs and services offered through the program.
DUTIES:
1. Responsible for designing, developing and providing workshops on literacy.
2. Responsible for designing, developing and providing the online literacy toolkit.
3. Responsible for designing, developing and providing the monthly online brown bag luncheons on literacy.
4. Administers the online literacy tools consortium available through the Libraries for Literacy website.
5. Administers the grant program for online literacy tools consortium.
6. Responsible for the literacy section of ntrls.org and the Libraries for Literacy website.
7. Staff Liaison to the Libraries for Literacy Council
8. Keeps current in literacy instruction theory and methods
9. Assists libraries with literacy endeavors as requested.
10. Other duties as assigned.
EDUCATION and EXPERIENCE: The employee must have a Master’s degree in library science or graduation date within one year from a program accredited by the American Library Association, or equivalent experience. The employee must have some previous exposure to some literacy programs. It is preferred that the employee have direct experience in literacy instruction endeavors.
SPECIAL QUALIFICATIONS: The employee must have a valid Texas driver’s license, proof of liability insurance and have access to a motor vehicle.
COMPUTER REQUIREMENTS: The employee must understand theoretical and practical applications of computer technology and be able to communicate with others.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS: While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit, stand, walk, use hands to finger, handle or feel, reach with hands and arms, talk and hear. The employee is occasionally required to stoop, kneel or crouch. The employee must occasionally lift up to fifty pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, color vision and the ability to adjust focus.
WORK ENVIRONMENT: While performing the duties of this job, the employee works alone in an office or with others in meeting rooms. The noise level in these environments is moderate.
Please note that NTRLS received a grant for this position. This grant will expire on 08/31/2010. Sustainability of this position will be based upon the availability of further grant funds being acquired, which will be aggressively pursued in upcoming fiscal year.
Friday, July 31, 2009
Top Web Sites for Genealogy from Family Tree Magazine
101 Best Web Sites 2009
By David A. Fryxell
Count on us to point you to genealogy's top digital destinations: 10 standouts in 10 areas (plus one!) add up to the 10th edition of our 101 Best Web Sites.
If our ancestors had swung down from the trees with six fingers on each hand, we'd probably be counting by dozens. But thanks to humanity's development of 10 fingers and 10 toes, we count things in 10s, group the years in decades and celebrate anniversaries ending in 0—such as this 10th annual installment of Family Tree Magazine's 101 Best Web Sites.
We're marking the occasion by honoring 10 categories of 10 noteworthy sites each (plus one to make 101, of course). With this 10th roundup of meritorious sites, we've also sought to break the mold a bit and encompass more of the "Web 2.0" sites that are paving the way for changes in online genealogy over the next 10 years. Something had to give, however, to keep our count at a manageable 101, so we've omitted some old favorites—still worth bookmarking, nonetheless—and several excellent foreign research sites of interest to genealogists with that particular ancestry.
Sites that are mostly free but where you might still wind up pulling out your credit card for some purchase or other are marked with a $. Subscription-only sites and those where you have to pay for any meaningful results are indicated with $$.
What's the one Web resource in a class by itself? Ancestry.com $$, of course. What can we say? With its ever-expanding collection of databases and globe-spanning country-specific sites, Ancestry.com comes the closest to realizing the dream of doing real genealogy online—not just finding a few clues, but tracing your ancestors in primary sources. The complete US census, indexed, searchable and linked to images, is only the beginning here. An annual membership is $155.40 for US collections only, or $299.40 for the World Deluxe membership.
10 Best Web Sites to See Dead People
Use these sites to find obituaries, cemeteries and other traces of your departed ancestors.10 Best Web Sites for Vital Records
These are the best searchable databases of vital records from health departments, historical societies and state archives.10 Best Web Sites for Storing and Sharing
Sharing your family history just got easier with these Web sites that let you create a family tree, store pictures and more.10 Best Big Web Sites
You're sure to find information about your family in these stellar genealogy Web sites.10 Best Web Sites for Maps
Trace your family's paths, find your ancestors' homes and explore the old country.10 Best Web Sites for Local Searches
You can thank your lucky stars if your ancestors resided in the areas these Web sites cover.10 Best Web Sites for International Searches
Tracking down immigrant ancestors has never been easier.10 Best Cutting-edge Web Sites
Stay informed about the latest technology for genealogists with these sites.10 Best Web Sites for Military Research
Find ancestors who served their country in these databases.10 Best Virtual Library Web Sites
Powerful search tools let you explore great library collections in the comfort of your own home.Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Interesting Article for Social Media Jobs
Jobs for Facebook addicts (from Careerbuilder)
If you're a social media guru, here are five jobs to consider in your next job search:
1. Recruiter
Candidates have been on social networks for years now, and it's about time recruiters joined them. Daniel says Dan Temps' recruiters can find candidates faster, screen them better and reach out to individuals they wouldn't see otherwise.
"Dan Temps believes that the environment candidates are accustomed to in a social network will keep the conversations and information real," Daniel says. "Candidates don't feel they are being pressured in that environment like they would in a more formal interview or screening process and are more likely to get real with our recruiters."
2. Strategist
Many companies are seeking social media strategists to find the best way to interact within various social sites and online communities. In this role, you would be the face of social media for your company, creating and maintaining an effective social media strategy by interacting with users, growing brand awareness, creating buzz, increasing traffic and providing valuable information. To thrive in this position, Durbin says you must have a proven track record of achieving goals, or companies will be hesitant to hire you.
3. Enterprise architect
"This is the most exciting job in social media and requires someone with broad experience in networks, multiple platforms, development, security and political infighting," Durbin says. "This is a very rare find. It's for companies looking to completely revamp their content management strategy and internal networks. It could be the most important role in a company in the next five years."
4. User operations analyst
For any company with an online presence, user experience is one of the most vital parts of the business. The only way to monitor that is to have someone in charge of the experience themselves. No matter if the company is blogging, has a Web site or pages on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn, user operations analysts interact with users, answer queries, investigate problems and keep track of user habits.
5. Director of social media
Similar to a strategist, companies need someone to organize company blogging, viral marketing, podcasting, etc. This person has a background in building teams and who really gets the promise and the purpose of social media, Durbin says. These folks should be wary of new technologies and be all over blogs, RSS, have Facebook and Twitter accounts, and know the difference between his or her employees playing and researching on MySpace and YouTube.
Searching for social media jobs
You might think that finding social media jobs is difficult but many of these positions under a variety of job titles that don't include "social media."
Try searching job boards and the Internet for "social media," "interactive marketing," "new media" or "branding manager" and you should get a good start in the right direction.
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Western Governor's University for an online degree
Western Governor's University was established by 19 governors and is a private, online university that offers bachelor and master's degrees. It has recently been featured on NBC news shows and in Time magazine.
Tuition is lower than most private universities and it is a non-profit institution. This is a great resource to share with library patrons and staff wanting to further their education.
Tuition is lower than most private universities and it is a non-profit institution. This is a great resource to share with library patrons and staff wanting to further their education.
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Free IP Relay &/or Captioning
American Network, Inc. has been providing telecom services since 1991. As of January 2009, they are FCC-approved to provide IP Relay, Video Relay Services (VRS) and Internet Protocol Catpion Telephone Serivce (IPCTS). FreeRelay services are free and are designed to provide FREE services to people with limited hearing and those who contact them. http://www.phonecaption.com/ .
PhoneCaption.com provides free captioning for telephone calls to help those with hearing limitations. It supports normal phones to IP phones and sends voice dialogue via text throught the Internet or your IP phone screen. The low/no hearing party receives captions to read what's being said, via the web or a Cisco 79XX IP phone screen display, for example. For more information, visit http://www.phonecaption.com/ .
Information source: http://blog.techsoup.org/
PhoneCaption.com provides free captioning for telephone calls to help those with hearing limitations. It supports normal phones to IP phones and sends voice dialogue via text throught the Internet or your IP phone screen. The low/no hearing party receives captions to read what's being said, via the web or a Cisco 79XX IP phone screen display, for example. For more information, visit http://www.phonecaption.com/ .
Information source: http://blog.techsoup.org/
Age of Aquarius
There is really no great knowledge boost here - but I love a library that knows how to have fun and isn't uptight! Check out the groovy video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KRIxnhunF3I
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KRIxnhunF3I
Wednesday, July 08, 2009
Book-A-Day Blog
From Little Elm Public Library's weekly newsletter:
If you like reading award winning fiction books then you might want to bookmark the National Book Foundation’s book a day blog http://www.nationalbook.org/nba77fictionwinners.html. The National Book Foundation is presenting a book-a-day blog on the Fiction winners from 1950 to 2008 in order to celebrate the 60th year of the National Book Awards. The blog will run from July 7th to September 21st.
If you like reading award winning fiction books then you might want to bookmark the National Book Foundation’s book a day blog http://www.nationalbook.org/nba77fictionwinners.html. The National Book Foundation is presenting a book-a-day blog on the Fiction winners from 1950 to 2008 in order to celebrate the 60th year of the National Book Awards. The blog will run from July 7th to September 21st.
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
North Texas 23
Over 300 participants and 23 "mentors" are involved in North Texas 23, an online Web 2.0/Library 2.0 learning experience designed specifically for library personnel in the 20-county area which makes up TLA District 7 as well as the NTLP service area.
We're pleased with the number of people involved in this first-time NTLP project, but we're especially excited by the fact that all four types of libraries are represented among both the mentors, a.k.a. the Leadership Team, and the participants. Although North Texas 23 is based on a concept which has been around for years and was inspired by a similar project done by the Central Texas Library System last year, it may be the first three-month online learning project which involves personnel from all types of libraries, throughout a Texas State Library System/TLA District, networking with, mentoring and learning from one-another. We hope this leads to many other projects involving cooperation among all types of libraries within this 20-county area.
North Texas 23 began May 7 at TechNet 2009 when TCU Science Librarian and North Texas 23 Coordinator Jeff Bond provided a session which described the project and encouraged attendees to participate and/or develop similar projects for their own groups of colleagues. Registration continued through June 1 and was open additionally to all TechNet 2009 attendees and to anyone who was registered and paid for CYC 2009, the third annual Children and Youth Conference for North Texas Libraries.
As registrations arrived, Jeff assigned participants to individual members of the leadership team so that every participant in this project has someone assigned to encourage, help, provide input and/or additional information to and, generally, mentor them through the tasks. Those people are also tracking the progress of people in their clusters. Participants who complete all 23 things by September 1, 2009, will receive certificates of acheivement; those who finish by August 15, 2009, will also qualify for a chance at prizes.
Many of the participants will receive their certificates and/or meet other participants during CYC 2009. At that conference, Jeff will present a session in which he reviews the project and discusses lessons learned so that others who wish to provide similar projects for their own groups may benefit from experiences of North Texas 23.
We're pleased with the number of people involved in this first-time NTLP project, but we're especially excited by the fact that all four types of libraries are represented among both the mentors, a.k.a. the Leadership Team, and the participants. Although North Texas 23 is based on a concept which has been around for years and was inspired by a similar project done by the Central Texas Library System last year, it may be the first three-month online learning project which involves personnel from all types of libraries, throughout a Texas State Library System/TLA District, networking with, mentoring and learning from one-another. We hope this leads to many other projects involving cooperation among all types of libraries within this 20-county area.
North Texas 23 began May 7 at TechNet 2009 when TCU Science Librarian and North Texas 23 Coordinator Jeff Bond provided a session which described the project and encouraged attendees to participate and/or develop similar projects for their own groups of colleagues. Registration continued through June 1 and was open additionally to all TechNet 2009 attendees and to anyone who was registered and paid for CYC 2009, the third annual Children and Youth Conference for North Texas Libraries.
As registrations arrived, Jeff assigned participants to individual members of the leadership team so that every participant in this project has someone assigned to encourage, help, provide input and/or additional information to and, generally, mentor them through the tasks. Those people are also tracking the progress of people in their clusters. Participants who complete all 23 things by September 1, 2009, will receive certificates of acheivement; those who finish by August 15, 2009, will also qualify for a chance at prizes.
Many of the participants will receive their certificates and/or meet other participants during CYC 2009. At that conference, Jeff will present a session in which he reviews the project and discusses lessons learned so that others who wish to provide similar projects for their own groups may benefit from experiences of North Texas 23.
Friday, June 05, 2009
Azle Resident Provides New Library & Park to the City
Thanks to the work and support of Ms. Janie Rector, one of its residents, Azle has a brand new library with all-new furnishings and technology as well as an adjacent park. The community has planned a three-day celebration, June 26-28, for the library's grand opening. (See http://www.cityofazle.org/ and http://www.ntrls.org/downloads/41653Invite.pdf for details.)
Whether you make it to the grand opening ceremonies or not, I HIGHLY recommend that you attempt to visit this library at some point.
Ms. Rector is the recipient of this year's NTLP Benefactor of the Year award and also won the 2008 TLA Outstanding Services to Libraries Award in recognition of her successful advocacy of the library to the community (population 10,000). Here's some background information from the LiFTA event which included that award presentation:
In 2000, Mrs. Rector informed Azle Public Library Director Judy Whitt that she wished to do something for the community in memory of her husband, specifically A NEW LIBRARY ON MAIN STREET! After finding and purchasing land for not only the library, but also a substantial portion of a new park, she made her proposal to city officials.
Next Mrs. R formed a committee of Friends of the Library, and they visited at least 25 libraries in the area and out-of-state. Armed with disposable cameras and taking pictures of these facilities (with permission), they compiled four large annotated scrapbooks with typed notes for future reference. Then Mrs. R joined TLA, attending conferences in Austin and San Antonio to get ideas for the new library. She hired an architect and a contractor and saw that Judy Whitt was included all phases of the building project.
In her hands-on mode Mrs. R. volunteer[ed] every Monday afternoon in the previous library to get the feel of library operation—working in circulation, shelving books, assisting patrons. She attends various NTRLS workshops to better understand public libraries.
In addition, this extraordinary library patron furnish[ed] the building and purchase[d] RFID technology and self-checkout in the new facility.
Whether you make it to the grand opening ceremonies or not, I HIGHLY recommend that you attempt to visit this library at some point.
Ms. Rector is the recipient of this year's NTLP Benefactor of the Year award and also won the 2008 TLA Outstanding Services to Libraries Award in recognition of her successful advocacy of the library to the community (population 10,000). Here's some background information from the LiFTA event which included that award presentation:
In 2000, Mrs. Rector informed Azle Public Library Director Judy Whitt that she wished to do something for the community in memory of her husband, specifically A NEW LIBRARY ON MAIN STREET! After finding and purchasing land for not only the library, but also a substantial portion of a new park, she made her proposal to city officials.
Next Mrs. R formed a committee of Friends of the Library, and they visited at least 25 libraries in the area and out-of-state. Armed with disposable cameras and taking pictures of these facilities (with permission), they compiled four large annotated scrapbooks with typed notes for future reference. Then Mrs. R joined TLA, attending conferences in Austin and San Antonio to get ideas for the new library. She hired an architect and a contractor and saw that Judy Whitt was included all phases of the building project.
In her hands-on mode Mrs. R. volunteer[ed] every Monday afternoon in the previous library to get the feel of library operation—working in circulation, shelving books, assisting patrons. She attends various NTRLS workshops to better understand public libraries.
In addition, this extraordinary library patron furnish[ed] the building and purchase[d] RFID technology and self-checkout in the new facility.
Increased Numbers of Public Computer Users
As unemployment increases, and as the government moves from paper to online forms in general, librarians are seeing the number of public computer users increase exponentially. With that increase comes increased demands on staff to provide one-on-one assistance for those who must complete the forms.
Some patrons have computer skills and simply need help relative to information required to complete the forms. Others have only basic computer skills - possibly from doing email only - and need additional computer training as well as help with supplying the required information. MANY, however, have virtually no computer skills and don't have time to learn even basic skills before completing the online forms which will help them get through tough times.
NTLP has scheduled Suzanne Sears, an expert on e-government resources for academic, public and school libraries, to present two all-day workshops on the topic this month. (See http://www.ntrls.org/Workshops/FY2009/e-gov.pdf )
The sad irony is the fact that the increased demands on their time and presence in the building prevent many library staff members from being able to attend those workshops.
Some patrons have computer skills and simply need help relative to information required to complete the forms. Others have only basic computer skills - possibly from doing email only - and need additional computer training as well as help with supplying the required information. MANY, however, have virtually no computer skills and don't have time to learn even basic skills before completing the online forms which will help them get through tough times.
NTLP has scheduled Suzanne Sears, an expert on e-government resources for academic, public and school libraries, to present two all-day workshops on the topic this month. (See http://www.ntrls.org/Workshops/FY2009/e-gov.pdf )
The sad irony is the fact that the increased demands on their time and presence in the building prevent many library staff members from being able to attend those workshops.
Friday, May 29, 2009
Falling Sales Cloud Book Industry Meeting - NYTimes.com
Falling Sales Cloud Book Industry Meeting - NYTimes.com
Books sales are falling as library usage skyrockets!
The NY Times reports that even juvenile book sales are declining. It is a bit scary to me as a librarian that many libraries still have antiquated views concerning purchasing books that are not reviewed!!! This certainly leads to a homogenous library collection nationwide - head's up - maybe that is why publishers are so slow to accept new authors. Be brave - read non-reviewed books - if you can find any at the library.
Books sales are falling as library usage skyrockets!
The NY Times reports that even juvenile book sales are declining. It is a bit scary to me as a librarian that many libraries still have antiquated views concerning purchasing books that are not reviewed!!! This certainly leads to a homogenous library collection nationwide - head's up - maybe that is why publishers are so slow to accept new authors. Be brave - read non-reviewed books - if you can find any at the library.
Friday, May 22, 2009
Libraries Are America's Lifelines. Leave Them Alone
Posted a couple weeks ago - but this is a great article for library advocacy by Kenneth C Davis
Michael Bloomberg may be the ultimate IT Guy. Okay, maybe that's still Bill Gates. But the point is, Michael Bloomberg took Information and Technology and made himself an empire with Bloomberg News. Then he became King of New York -- or at least Mayor -- and a very good one at that, as far as I am concerned.
So why would a man who built his world around IT want to cripple New York's IT lifeline -- the public library?
In case you haven't heard, New York City's public library systems -- three separate library systems in Manhattan, Brooklyn and Queens -- are once again under siege, on the chopping block, threatened with draconian cuts in the face of New York City's Great Recession. (The cuts were outlined in an article in Library Journal.)
Library cuts in down times remind me of the classic line from Casablanca: "Round up the usual suspects." The public library is always suspect Number One when it comes to municipal budget cuts. And as librarians everywhere know, this is not a fact in New York City alone.
Underlying this reality are two simple facts. First, libraries do not have a vocal, powerful constituency. Unlike the police, teachers and firemen, they don't have a potent union or benevolent association. There is no "Library Lobby" doling out campaign contributions. But far worse, libraries tend to be viewed by all too many people in power as a luxury.
For complete article
Michael Bloomberg may be the ultimate IT Guy. Okay, maybe that's still Bill Gates. But the point is, Michael Bloomberg took Information and Technology and made himself an empire with Bloomberg News. Then he became King of New York -- or at least Mayor -- and a very good one at that, as far as I am concerned.
So why would a man who built his world around IT want to cripple New York's IT lifeline -- the public library?
In case you haven't heard, New York City's public library systems -- three separate library systems in Manhattan, Brooklyn and Queens -- are once again under siege, on the chopping block, threatened with draconian cuts in the face of New York City's Great Recession. (The cuts were outlined in an article in Library Journal.)
Library cuts in down times remind me of the classic line from Casablanca: "Round up the usual suspects." The public library is always suspect Number One when it comes to municipal budget cuts. And as librarians everywhere know, this is not a fact in New York City alone.
Underlying this reality are two simple facts. First, libraries do not have a vocal, powerful constituency. Unlike the police, teachers and firemen, they don't have a potent union or benevolent association. There is no "Library Lobby" doling out campaign contributions. But far worse, libraries tend to be viewed by all too many people in power as a luxury.
For complete article
Monday, May 18, 2009
A Librarian's Guide to Gaming!
Just a reminder that ALA has an online toolkit for Building Gaming which is very helpful. If you haven't brought gaming to your library yet - it is time to jump in!
This toolkit includes board games, card games and videogames. "Games of every type play an important role in developing fundamental competencies for life. They require players to learn and follow complex sets of rules, make strategic and tactical decisions, and increasingly, collaborate with teammates and others: all things they will have to do in college and in the workforce." Jim Rettig, ALA President, 2008-2009.
This toolkit includes board games, card games and videogames. "Games of every type play an important role in developing fundamental competencies for life. They require players to learn and follow complex sets of rules, make strategic and tactical decisions, and increasingly, collaborate with teammates and others: all things they will have to do in college and in the workforce." Jim Rettig, ALA President, 2008-2009.
Friday, May 15, 2009
New Wii Gadget!
Okay - I confess - I haven't been on my Wii Fit as much as I should be - but I plan to change that soon. The new Wii MotionPlus peripheral will make my movement even more realistic.
From what I have read, this new gadget will work with newer games - not the sports and fit packages I already have. That is a bummer - but the new gadget will come with the new Wii Sports Resort for $49.99 so I think I'll put it on my wishlist.
Plan to add the Wii MotionPlus to your library's gaming area to keep attracting the teens - and let's face it - those of us over 40 too!
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
Posterous - the easy way to blog!
Posterous is the new - easy way to blog. Very simple, very easy, very fast - all things I desperately need. You do not have to create an account - just send an email to: post@posterous.com, adding whatever content you want (the subject line becomes the title, while text, images, and video are the body), and hitting send. Posterous will create your blog and email you back with confirmation and a link to view.
Tuesday, May 05, 2009
Lip Reading Computers??
Lip Reading Computers can even differentiate languages.
The University of East Anglia's School of Computer Sciences are on their way to releasing a computer that can lip read and even check for multiple languages.
This tool will have an impact on the hearing impaired community as well as law enforcement and military advances.
Friday, May 01, 2009
NTLP is responsive to H1N1!
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Password Management Site
PC Magazine's Editor's Choice for a password management site is LastPass1.5. While I admit it makes me a bit nervous to have my passwords saved in one location - one secure location - I am always hearing about different security breaches. My mortgage company was hacked, where I buy my shoes was hacked, even my account with a federally funded agency was hacked - so forgive me if I tend to be a bit hesitant. However, this one is highly rated and I think I might give it a try - passwords are constantly changing and my mind just can't keep up!!
LastPass will also fill out forms for you - sometimes this is helpful - sometimes it is not - your opinion here.
And finally - it is free! You can't beat that!
LastPass will also fill out forms for you - sometimes this is helpful - sometimes it is not - your opinion here.
And finally - it is free! You can't beat that!
Monday, April 20, 2009
Renting Books and Libraries
As I was driving by another closed Blockbuster store, I realized people do not often want to be bothered to pull out of traffic, park, go inside, and wait in line. Are people actually watching less movies - of course not. But we are watching more movies at home - between Netflix, the Red Boxes around town (which are an onsite vending machine - but more convenient than a Blockbuster), on-demand, fantastic home theaters and sound systems, etc... we want to watch movies on our terms.
With book rentals (Bookswim, Booksfree) becoming more common, will libraries go the way of Blockbuster? I doubt it - but it does give us a chance to rethink part of our service to our communities.
At a time when the economy is tough, our libraries usage stats are going through the roof - we always knew libraries were REQUIRED for a strong community - now it seems others are catching on. But let's start thinking about when our economy strengthens (and yes it will) - how can we keep usage up? Should we be offering more on-demand service for books and movies? Can we have memberships that include enhanced services - and we mail the books and movies? The ongoing debate about everything is free vs. some pay services will remain. What we need to focus on is how do we best serve our users?
With book rentals (Bookswim, Booksfree) becoming more common, will libraries go the way of Blockbuster? I doubt it - but it does give us a chance to rethink part of our service to our communities.
At a time when the economy is tough, our libraries usage stats are going through the roof - we always knew libraries were REQUIRED for a strong community - now it seems others are catching on. But let's start thinking about when our economy strengthens (and yes it will) - how can we keep usage up? Should we be offering more on-demand service for books and movies? Can we have memberships that include enhanced services - and we mail the books and movies? The ongoing debate about everything is free vs. some pay services will remain. What we need to focus on is how do we best serve our users?
Thursday, April 16, 2009
Public Libraries Look to New Services in Japan
Public libraries look to new services
Taisuke Takeda and Hiroko Toda / Yomiuri Shimbun Staff Writers
A "concierge," of Chiyoda Public Library in Chiyoda Ward, Tokyo, provides people with useful information about its selection of books and even local restaurants.
Amid the global recession, various kinds of rental services have become popular among increasingly budget-conscious people, with many public libraries looking to attract new users with new services in addition to conventional ones.
Fuchu City Library in Fuchu, western Tokyo, has the most extensive collection of audiovisual material among public libraries in Tokyo. It has 44,000 CDs and 20,000 DVDs and videotapes, and 10 special viewing booths. Most of this material can be borrowed.
"An increasing number of people are using the library, where they can borrow items whenever they need to, as a study or reading resource," library director Toshihiko Sakurada said.
Due to the constraints of copyright and other issues, the library usually purchases audiovisual products six months to a year after their first appearance in CD rental shops.
For complete article
Taisuke Takeda and Hiroko Toda / Yomiuri Shimbun Staff Writers
A "concierge," of Chiyoda Public Library in Chiyoda Ward, Tokyo, provides people with useful information about its selection of books and even local restaurants.
Amid the global recession, various kinds of rental services have become popular among increasingly budget-conscious people, with many public libraries looking to attract new users with new services in addition to conventional ones.
Fuchu City Library in Fuchu, western Tokyo, has the most extensive collection of audiovisual material among public libraries in Tokyo. It has 44,000 CDs and 20,000 DVDs and videotapes, and 10 special viewing booths. Most of this material can be borrowed.
"An increasing number of people are using the library, where they can borrow items whenever they need to, as a study or reading resource," library director Toshihiko Sakurada said.
Due to the constraints of copyright and other issues, the library usually purchases audiovisual products six months to a year after their first appearance in CD rental shops.
For complete article
Friday, April 03, 2009
Texas Library Association Annual Conference - My View
Just getting back from Houston for the Texas Library Association conference. As always it was great to see librarians and library supporters from around the state. Paula Poundstone was really funny as the keynote presenter - who knew - Melody Kelly was pretty funny too!
I went to many, many meetings and a few sessions. One session in particular was very helpful. It was the CE SLAM - five trainers shared a quick lesson. I think this formula will work for a longer workshop in the NTLP area - have a CE SLAM on often asked about topics that don't require a full day of training.
One site shared that is worthy of time is VoiceThread. This tool allows you to narrate your presentation or video. Easy to use - check it out!
I went to many, many meetings and a few sessions. One session in particular was very helpful. It was the CE SLAM - five trainers shared a quick lesson. I think this formula will work for a longer workshop in the NTLP area - have a CE SLAM on often asked about topics that don't require a full day of training.
One site shared that is worthy of time is VoiceThread. This tool allows you to narrate your presentation or video. Easy to use - check it out!
Friday, March 27, 2009
Disaster Planning
One of the local libraries in North Texas recently suffered a water leak that created substantial clean-up and damage. Fargo, ND is dealing with the rising Red River flooding their city. Are you and your library ready if some type of disaster occurs in your area?
dPlan is a free online tool that creates disaster plans - practical plans.
"dPlan is a free online tool that will help you simplify the process of writing a disaster plan. Enter information about your institution using the comprehensive fill-in-the-blank template. This template will guide you through the steps necessary for effective disaster planning.
Once completed, dPlan generates a printed disaster plan specific to your institution. The resulting plan contains contact information for staff and key personnel, preventive maintenance checklists, salvage techniques, and much more. dPlan can be updated continuously to reflect the changes that occur at your institution."
dPlan is a free online tool that creates disaster plans - practical plans.
"dPlan is a free online tool that will help you simplify the process of writing a disaster plan. Enter information about your institution using the comprehensive fill-in-the-blank template. This template will guide you through the steps necessary for effective disaster planning.
Once completed, dPlan generates a printed disaster plan specific to your institution. The resulting plan contains contact information for staff and key personnel, preventive maintenance checklists, salvage techniques, and much more. dPlan can be updated continuously to reflect the changes that occur at your institution."
Friday, March 13, 2009
Great Graphic Design Tool
Need to create a poster? Want to display a library image? Try the Rasterbator website. You upload a photo or image and then follow the easy wizard. Your image will be created over multiple sheets which you can then print out and tape together.
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Helping Patrons Who Have Been Laid Off.....
In a time with so many people losing there jobs - new creative sites are popping up online. One to check for a powerful networking group is a new organization called LaidOffCamp that is like a free day camp for the underemployed. According to the movement's Web site, it's "an ad-hoc gathering of unemployed and nontraditionally employed people (including freelancers, entrepreneurs and startups) who want to share ideas and learn from each other." You never know whom you might meet.
Friday, February 27, 2009
Will Serials Disappear??
As the Denver Rocky Mountain News closes its doors after 100+ years, it makes one wonder about all newspapers and magazines in print. Should libraries continue to carry newspapers and magazines in print - they take space, money and time to locate missing issues. I must admit however, I like reading the weekend paper and my all important People magazine.
It is a tough time for everyone and when we see institutions close after such long histories, it makes me sad. Being part of that mid-generation, too young to really be a boomer and too old to be considered a digtial native, I often find myself caught between embracing technology and wishing technology would go away. I want to be sitting on a beach curled up with a book, listening to a live band in the background, no phone, no email.......just restful time. But as my stomach growls I want to order a pizza on my ipod touch, IM my friends, call my husband on my cell, update the blog, wiki and my facebook account, and be energized by the frenzy! Oy!
It is a tough time for everyone and when we see institutions close after such long histories, it makes me sad. Being part of that mid-generation, too young to really be a boomer and too old to be considered a digtial native, I often find myself caught between embracing technology and wishing technology would go away. I want to be sitting on a beach curled up with a book, listening to a live band in the background, no phone, no email.......just restful time. But as my stomach growls I want to order a pizza on my ipod touch, IM my friends, call my husband on my cell, update the blog, wiki and my facebook account, and be energized by the frenzy! Oy!
Saturday, February 14, 2009
Congressional Compromise on Stimulus Plan Includes Money for Arts, Social Services, and Volunteerism
Excerpts from an article in the 2-16-09 issue of the TANOgram (Texas Assn. of Non-Profit Organization):
13-Feb-09 2:00 PM CST
By Suzanne Perry
The compromise economic-stimulus package passed today by the House of Representatives would provide $50-million for a new program to strengthen nonprofit groups so they can help people suffering from the economic downturn.
It would also provide $50-million for the National Endowment for the Arts and $200-million for AmeriCorps.
The new bill, which proposes about $787-billion in spending and tax cuts designed to create jobs and lift the country out of recession, restores some cuts to social spending the Senate made in its version of the bill.
The money for the National Endowment for the Arts would go to grants for “arts projects and activities which preserve jobs in the nonprofit arts sector threatened by declines in philanthropic and other support during the current economic downturn.” Forty percent would be distributed to state arts agencies and regional arts organizations and 60 percent to arts projects selected by competition.
The full text of the bill, the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, is available on the House Rules Committee Web site.http://www.rules.house.gov/
To read the full text of this article, visit http://www.tano.org/en/art/259/
13-Feb-09 2:00 PM CST
By Suzanne Perry
The compromise economic-stimulus package passed today by the House of Representatives would provide $50-million for a new program to strengthen nonprofit groups so they can help people suffering from the economic downturn.
It would also provide $50-million for the National Endowment for the Arts and $200-million for AmeriCorps.
The new bill, which proposes about $787-billion in spending and tax cuts designed to create jobs and lift the country out of recession, restores some cuts to social spending the Senate made in its version of the bill.
The money for the National Endowment for the Arts would go to grants for “arts projects and activities which preserve jobs in the nonprofit arts sector threatened by declines in philanthropic and other support during the current economic downturn.” Forty percent would be distributed to state arts agencies and regional arts organizations and 60 percent to arts projects selected by competition.
The full text of the bill, the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, is available on the House Rules Committee Web site.http://www.rules.house.gov/
To read the full text of this article, visit http://www.tano.org/en/art/259/
Friday, February 13, 2009
Information - Can there be too much??
I haven't checked all the facts in this video - but it still is amazing the level of information overload we are all facing. This video is great in demonstrating how we as librarians must be "guides" and "experts" in deciphering what is helpful and what is not. The video is around 6 - 7 minutes - but is worth the time........
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jpEnFwiqdx8
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jpEnFwiqdx8
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Library Tech Network Website is LIVE!
It's AVAILABLE NOW! Another website specifically designed for communication among library staff and supporters who share a common interest.
The Library Tech Network is one of four Special Interest Groups (SIGs) created by Texas Library Association (TLA) District 7 in partnership with North Texas Library Partners (NTLP), home of the North Texas Regional Library System (NTRLS). The other three SIGs are the Library Presentations Network, the Library Supporters Network and the Library Youth Services Network.
The Library Tech Network exists to facilitate networking among library staff and supporters involved in using technology - at any level of expertise - as a part of their responsibilities.
In addition to having its own website and an annual conference, each SIG will hold periodic meetings for networking and discussion of business. Some meetings will take place online via chat. Meetings will be called and conducted by District 7 officers.
Each SIG website will serve as a gateway to information about the annual conference, additional SIG-specific resources and an email discussion list where members can network. Archives of the discussion list will be available online. Other features will be added in the future to support the online environment for peer networking.
Future plans for the SIG websites include extended features for online peer networking, such as online chats, blogs, wikis, and other Web 2.0 innovations. As each SIG website is enhanced and the other SIGs come online, members also will be able to maintain online profiles and contact lists.
To join the email discussion list for this SIG, visit the Library Tech Network, click on "discussion" and follow the directions. Please be sure to read everything on that page before participating in online discussions in order to keep from unintentionally sending out unwanted messages to your peers.
The Library Tech Network is one of four Special Interest Groups (SIGs) created by Texas Library Association (TLA) District 7 in partnership with North Texas Library Partners (NTLP), home of the North Texas Regional Library System (NTRLS). The other three SIGs are the Library Presentations Network, the Library Supporters Network and the Library Youth Services Network.
The Library Tech Network exists to facilitate networking among library staff and supporters involved in using technology - at any level of expertise - as a part of their responsibilities.
In addition to having its own website and an annual conference, each SIG will hold periodic meetings for networking and discussion of business. Some meetings will take place online via chat. Meetings will be called and conducted by District 7 officers.
Each SIG website will serve as a gateway to information about the annual conference, additional SIG-specific resources and an email discussion list where members can network. Archives of the discussion list will be available online. Other features will be added in the future to support the online environment for peer networking.
Future plans for the SIG websites include extended features for online peer networking, such as online chats, blogs, wikis, and other Web 2.0 innovations. As each SIG website is enhanced and the other SIGs come online, members also will be able to maintain online profiles and contact lists.
To join the email discussion list for this SIG, visit the Library Tech Network, click on "discussion" and follow the directions. Please be sure to read everything on that page before participating in online discussions in order to keep from unintentionally sending out unwanted messages to your peers.
Impacting Your Community - Houston Area Workshop
Need more resources for your library? Want to impact your community more and be a building block to address local needs? Tell your library's story to those who don't visit?
If you answered yes to any of these - this hands-on workshop is for you! Work with and plan to grow together with other groups in your community: home schoolers, local art guild, community chorus, Parks Dept. of your city/county, local retirement center, center for abused women, community theater, etc.
FYI - Pasadena Public Library's workshop in 2008 discovered 4 common concerns of all participants: 1) How to market programs and services; 2) Recruit/Increase community involvement; 3) Diversify funding sources; and 4) Expand services to special communities.
Sound Familiar? Remember - this is a hands-on opportunity to learn more about your community and create new partnerships. Please bring at least 3 current / potential partners with you on February 17 or 18 or March 17 or 18; see below for details.
Note: 50% librarian and 50% non-librarian attendees will lead to a greater benefit for all participants. Cynthia reported: Bringing diverse perspectives together can lead to more creative solutions and identify resources/assets available from each participant agency.
Feel free to share the information with colleagues, volunteers, supporters, and local service agencies and encourage them to attend. Note: HALS is now certified by the Texas Education Authority as CPE Provider #510545 for teachers and educators.
Please register online at www.hals.lib.tx.us/register/events.php
We look forward to seeing you and working with colleagues from your community!
Leadership Plenty: Build Strategic Partnerships in Your Community
Presenter: Mary Beth Harrington, Director of Membership & Resource Development,
Texas Association of Nonprofit Organizations (TANO)
Workshop Objectives:
* Distinguish between asset- and deficit-based approaches to community development
* Learn non-traditional ways to recognize and work with local leadership assets
* Identify different types of effective community partners
* Understand how to organize effective community partnerships to maximize rewards
February 17, 2009
Kurth Memorial Library
706 S. Raquet St.
Lufkin, TX 75904-3922
Ph: 936.630.0561
February 18, 2009
Sour Lake Community Center
250 S. Ann St.
Sour Lake, TX 78934
Ph: 409.287.3592
March 17, 2009
Angleton Library
401 E. Cedar St.
Angleton, TX 77515-4652
Ph: 979.864.1519
March 18, 2009
George Memorial Library
1001 Golfview Drive
Richmond, TX 77469-5199
Ph: 281.342.4455
Bring people from your community with whom you'd like to partner!
CPE # 510545 Credit hours: 6.5 hours C.E.U.
Workshop hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Sign-in time: 8:30 a.m.
** Register online at www.hals.lib.tx.us
Click on Register in the upper right hand corner **
For directions from your specific location, try logging on to http://maps.yahoo.com/
Please contact Wendy Willeford at 832.393.1397 / 1.800.852.0395 or wendy.willeford@cityofhouston.net, with any questions or special needs
*** Registration deadline: February 13, for Lufkin & Sour Lake locations
March 13, for Angleton & Richmond locations ***
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
LJ's article about Dallas Public's charges for bestsellers
$5 for Some Bestsellers and Movies? Dallas Public Library Says Yes
Norman Oder -- Library Journal, 2/5/2009
New books, DVDs help beat waiting list $5 fee is self-sustaining
Program aimed at clientele that would buy books
While some libraries offer high-demand bestsellers for a $1 fee, and a few have nudged fees up to $2 and even $3 (for DVDs), the Dallas Public Library (DPL), with its new StreetSmart Express program, has vaulted libraries into real rental territory, charging customers $5 for access to select books, DVDs, and audiobooks.
Corinne Hill, DPL’s assistant director of resource management, tells LJ that the new program, known for hot pink book trucks (below) that sit by the circulation desks at DPL branches, was inspired by two factors. One was the ever-more-common occurrence of holds increasing for popular materials. The other was the recognition that some library users tend to borrow backlist materials but will go to the bookstore for new titles—and often donate the once-read titles to the library. “We have this segment that’s going to pay, if they don’t wait,” she said.Program highlightsThe $5 fee was set to keep the pricing as simple as possible, she said; while people may be able to rent videos outside libraries for $5, they don't get to keep in-person rentals for a week. As of now, there are 40 books and 28 DVDs in the program, as well as occasional audiobooks. Late fees are consistent with the regular collection, as are borrowing periods. No renewals or holds are permitted. (Here’s a fact sheet.)
Copies float throughout the system, though Hill said DPL’s acquisitions team is keeping watch to see if certain titles move better in specific branches.
She said the circulation rates vary, and that when the hold list for free materials drops, titles move off StreetSmart Express and into the regular collection. In the three months since its launch in October, StreetSmart raised $10,405 from 2,081 circulations. The program is self-sustaining. And when titles are weeded later, the library's used bookstore can sell them.The top titles in DVD are The Incredible Hulk, Wall-E, and Kung-Fu Panda, while the top book titles are David Wrobelewski's The Story of Edgar Sawtelle, Candace Bushnell's One Fifth Avenue, and William P. Young's The Shack.How it worksHill acknowledged that the program has raised some eyebrows, especially when it first launched. Indeed, a Dallas Morning News article, generously headlined Dallas libraries let you pay to check out hot titles, found some library patrons who said they couldn’t afford the fee. But Hill said that most people understand the explanation that DPL is “trying to serve a section of the clientele we weren’t serving.”(LJ's Bubble Room blogger Alison Circle has a critical take.)
Hill, a 2004 LJ Mover & Shaker, said there’s been one tweak already. Given that music CDs didn’t circulate—“there’s a whole subculture that feels they shouldn’t be paying for music”—DPL pulled music, but added audiobooks.
Norman Oder -- Library Journal, 2/5/2009
New books, DVDs help beat waiting list $5 fee is self-sustaining
Program aimed at clientele that would buy books
While some libraries offer high-demand bestsellers for a $1 fee, and a few have nudged fees up to $2 and even $3 (for DVDs), the Dallas Public Library (DPL), with its new StreetSmart Express program, has vaulted libraries into real rental territory, charging customers $5 for access to select books, DVDs, and audiobooks.
Corinne Hill, DPL’s assistant director of resource management, tells LJ that the new program, known for hot pink book trucks (below) that sit by the circulation desks at DPL branches, was inspired by two factors. One was the ever-more-common occurrence of holds increasing for popular materials. The other was the recognition that some library users tend to borrow backlist materials but will go to the bookstore for new titles—and often donate the once-read titles to the library. “We have this segment that’s going to pay, if they don’t wait,” she said.Program highlightsThe $5 fee was set to keep the pricing as simple as possible, she said; while people may be able to rent videos outside libraries for $5, they don't get to keep in-person rentals for a week. As of now, there are 40 books and 28 DVDs in the program, as well as occasional audiobooks. Late fees are consistent with the regular collection, as are borrowing periods. No renewals or holds are permitted. (Here’s a fact sheet.)
Copies float throughout the system, though Hill said DPL’s acquisitions team is keeping watch to see if certain titles move better in specific branches.
She said the circulation rates vary, and that when the hold list for free materials drops, titles move off StreetSmart Express and into the regular collection. In the three months since its launch in October, StreetSmart raised $10,405 from 2,081 circulations. The program is self-sustaining. And when titles are weeded later, the library's used bookstore can sell them.The top titles in DVD are The Incredible Hulk, Wall-E, and Kung-Fu Panda, while the top book titles are David Wrobelewski's The Story of Edgar Sawtelle, Candace Bushnell's One Fifth Avenue, and William P. Young's The Shack.How it worksHill acknowledged that the program has raised some eyebrows, especially when it first launched. Indeed, a Dallas Morning News article, generously headlined Dallas libraries let you pay to check out hot titles, found some library patrons who said they couldn’t afford the fee. But Hill said that most people understand the explanation that DPL is “trying to serve a section of the clientele we weren’t serving.”(LJ's Bubble Room blogger Alison Circle has a critical take.)
Hill, a 2004 LJ Mover & Shaker, said there’s been one tweak already. Given that music CDs didn’t circulate—“there’s a whole subculture that feels they shouldn’t be paying for music”—DPL pulled music, but added audiobooks.
Reader's Advisory Link
EarlyWord: the Publisher/Librarian Connection.
EarlyWord’s goal is to help Collection Development and Readers Advisory librarians stay ahead of public demand and identify hidden gems.
This is a Blog and Web site on a mission — to give libraries the earliest information possible on the books their customers will be looking for, so they can stay ahead of demand. By giving readers what they want, when they want it, we believe libraries can increase their circulation and their support.
EarlyWord began daily blogging in early January ’08. As of December, EarlyWord is receiving 13,500 visits a month.
EarlyWord’s goal is to help Collection Development and Readers Advisory librarians stay ahead of public demand and identify hidden gems.
This is a Blog and Web site on a mission — to give libraries the earliest information possible on the books their customers will be looking for, so they can stay ahead of demand. By giving readers what they want, when they want it, we believe libraries can increase their circulation and their support.
EarlyWord began daily blogging in early January ’08. As of December, EarlyWord is receiving 13,500 visits a month.
Friday, February 06, 2009
$500 Stipend to Attend TLA Conference in Houston
Clark Charbonnet of Biblionix has generously offered to provide the Texas Library Association / Small Community Libraries Round Table (TLA/SCLRT) Stipend this year!
Information and stipend application is available at http://www.ntrls.org/downloads/TxLA-Biblioni-Stipend-2009.doc .
Questions? Want to volunteer to serve on the award committee? Call
TLA/SCLRT Chair Sue Dear at 409-384-5508.
Information and stipend application is available at http://www.ntrls.org/downloads/TxLA-Biblioni-Stipend-2009.doc .
Questions? Want to volunteer to serve on the award committee? Call
TLA/SCLRT Chair Sue Dear at 409-384-5508.
Tuesday, February 03, 2009
Impact of Literacy Programs
District Dispatch has posted a new item, 'Department of Education Evaluation Highlights Success of Improving Literacy Through School Libraries Program'
WASHINGTON, D.C. – The American Library Association (ALA) today hails the Second Evaluation of the Improving Literacy Through School Libraries (LSL) Program released by the U.S. Department of Education earlier this month, which indicated that students attending schools participating in LSL are performing higher on state reading tests than students in schools that do not [...]
The District Dispatch states:
The Second Evaluation of the Improving Literacy Through School Libraries Program (2009) provides findings on how grant funds are targeted to schools, uses of the grant funds, staff collaboration and professional development, and the relationship between participation in the program and reading achievement scores. The report analyzes data from a survey of school libraries, district performance reports, case studies and test scores.
The study found that grantees roughly tripled their expenditures on books and subscriptions and computer hardware, while nongrantees showed little change. In the first evaluation, grantees roughly doubled their expenditures on these items. In schools that participated in LSL in 2003-04, the percentage of students who met or exceeded the proficiency requirements on state reading assessments increased by an extra 2.7 percentage points over the increase observed among nonparticipating schools during the same time period. However, some or all of the increase may be associated with other school reform efforts that also appeared in the schools. Thus, no definitive statement can be made based on these data on whether LSL participation was associated with improved test scores that was separate from these other programs.
WASHINGTON, D.C. – The American Library Association (ALA) today hails the Second Evaluation of the Improving Literacy Through School Libraries (LSL) Program released by the U.S. Department of Education earlier this month, which indicated that students attending schools participating in LSL are performing higher on state reading tests than students in schools that do not [...]
The District Dispatch states:
The Second Evaluation of the Improving Literacy Through School Libraries Program (2009) provides findings on how grant funds are targeted to schools, uses of the grant funds, staff collaboration and professional development, and the relationship between participation in the program and reading achievement scores. The report analyzes data from a survey of school libraries, district performance reports, case studies and test scores.
The study found that grantees roughly tripled their expenditures on books and subscriptions and computer hardware, while nongrantees showed little change. In the first evaluation, grantees roughly doubled their expenditures on these items. In schools that participated in LSL in 2003-04, the percentage of students who met or exceeded the proficiency requirements on state reading assessments increased by an extra 2.7 percentage points over the increase observed among nonparticipating schools during the same time period. However, some or all of the increase may be associated with other school reform efforts that also appeared in the schools. Thus, no definitive statement can be made based on these data on whether LSL participation was associated with improved test scores that was separate from these other programs.
Monday, February 02, 2009
North Texas Library Partners Announces Launch of Libraries for Literacy Website
I am proud to announce the official launch of the Libraries for Literacy website. You can find it at: http://www.libraries4literacy.org.
On this website, you will find:
• News and announcements about the Libraries for Literacy project.
• A directory of Literacy providers. At present, this directory is a work in progress. We have several programs in the North Texas area already in the database, but we are looking for more. If you know of a program, please take a few moments to submit it. We will make sure it gets placed on the website. We hope this directory can be used by librarians who are asked, “Where can I learn to read?”
• A toolkit on how to start an adult literacy program found on the Resources page of the website.
We have plans to include even more in the future so please check back often.
If you have any questions, please contact Elizabeth Stewart at estewart@ntrls.org or call 817-377-4440.
On this website, you will find:
• News and announcements about the Libraries for Literacy project.
• A directory of Literacy providers. At present, this directory is a work in progress. We have several programs in the North Texas area already in the database, but we are looking for more. If you know of a program, please take a few moments to submit it. We will make sure it gets placed on the website. We hope this directory can be used by librarians who are asked, “Where can I learn to read?”
• A toolkit on how to start an adult literacy program found on the Resources page of the website.
We have plans to include even more in the future so please check back often.
If you have any questions, please contact Elizabeth Stewart at estewart@ntrls.org or call 817-377-4440.
Friday, January 30, 2009
Alternative to Rosetta Stone
There are several alternatives to Rosetta Stone - some are not as detailed and thorough but at least offer language assistance.
One resource to check is Annenberg Media - the registration is free and Spanish and French are both available.
Check it out!
One resource to check is Annenberg Media - the registration is free and Spanish and French are both available.
Check it out!
Monday, January 26, 2009
Recycle Info for Computer Equipment
State law requires manufacturers which offer for sale, or sell new, computer equipment in or into Texas to offer consumers a free recycling program and be on the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) list of computer-equipment manufacturers. As of September 1, 2008, the manufacturers offer a recycling program – free of charge at the time of recycling - to collect and recycle consumers' used computer equipment. You can find the full list and more information at www.texasrecyclescomputers.org.
NTRLS Award Nominations Now Being Accepted
Hi.
North Texas Library Partners, home of the North Texas Regional Library System, is currently accepting award nominations for the award ceremony to be held at the May System Assembly meeting. The Awards committee has changed some awards this year and added new requirements for submissions. Please check our website for more information.
One new requirement is the submission of a video along with the written application. Please do not let this intimidate you from making a nomination. The System staff is available to assist you with the videos. We have some video cameras available for checkout, which are very simple to use. You do not even have to worry about editing the video as we can do that here at the System office.
The Awards Committee will show these videos at the awards ceremony. It is a way to bring even more recognition to the nominees, who all deserve it.
North Texas Library Partners, home of the North Texas Regional Library System, is currently accepting award nominations for the award ceremony to be held at the May System Assembly meeting. The Awards committee has changed some awards this year and added new requirements for submissions. Please check our website for more information.
One new requirement is the submission of a video along with the written application. Please do not let this intimidate you from making a nomination. The System staff is available to assist you with the videos. We have some video cameras available for checkout, which are very simple to use. You do not even have to worry about editing the video as we can do that here at the System office.
The Awards Committee will show these videos at the awards ceremony. It is a way to bring even more recognition to the nominees, who all deserve it.
Thursday, January 15, 2009
Highsmith Award Opportunity
Could your library use some extra dollars? ? ? ? ? ?
Has your library recently implemented a program to enhance the library’s visibility within your service community?
If you answered YES to these questions, your library could be the next recipient of the
HIGHSMITH LIBRARY AWARD!
Each year, Highsmith recognizes libraries for the implementation of outstanding, creative marketing or promotion projects.
Two $1,000 awards are available each year, one for a school library and one for all other library types (e.g., public, academic, special, etc.).
Application forms and more information are available online at:
http://www.txla.org/html/awards/high.html
The deadline for submitting applications is: January 31, 2009.
Questions? Contact Elizabeth Polk at epolk@austinisd.org or 512-414-4939.
Has your library recently implemented a program to enhance the library’s visibility within your service community?
If you answered YES to these questions, your library could be the next recipient of the
HIGHSMITH LIBRARY AWARD!
Each year, Highsmith recognizes libraries for the implementation of outstanding, creative marketing or promotion projects.
Two $1,000 awards are available each year, one for a school library and one for all other library types (e.g., public, academic, special, etc.).
Application forms and more information are available online at:
http://www.txla.org/html/awards/high.html
The deadline for submitting applications is: January 31, 2009.
Questions? Contact Elizabeth Polk at epolk@austinisd.org or 512-414-4939.
Thursday, January 08, 2009
In case you missed the NPR Library discussion!
The Diane Rehm show discussed the role of libraries in the current economic crisis.
What surprised me most was how little people understand what libraries really do - we are underestimated and unsupported. It seemed unknown to some that libraries offer movies, programming, coffee shops, tutoring, etc....
This just demonstrates that we are not selling what we do - recently overheard at a family meal "aren't all libraries empty any how? who goes to a library?" This from my own family - trust me - they won't make that mistake again!
What surprised me most was how little people understand what libraries really do - we are underestimated and unsupported. It seemed unknown to some that libraries offer movies, programming, coffee shops, tutoring, etc....
This just demonstrates that we are not selling what we do - recently overheard at a family meal "aren't all libraries empty any how? who goes to a library?" This from my own family - trust me - they won't make that mistake again!
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
Library Support Staff Certification
Library Support Staff Certification Program
A Briefing for Discussion
The Institute of Museum and Library Services awarded a Laura Bush - Librarians for the 21st Century grant to the American Library Association (ALA) and the Western Council of State Libraries to support the “Library Support Staff Certification Program” (LSSCP) project. This project is developing a competency-based certification program for the approximately 160,150 library workers in positions not requiring a Master’s Degree in Library Science. The primary target audience is public and academic library support staff. The project began in July 2007 with the hiring of Karen Strege and Nancy Bolt as Project Directors. An Advisory Committee was formed with representatives from ALA divisions, round tables, committees and the Western Council of State Libraries.
The proposal grew out of many years of studies conducted by ALA and state organizations calling for a certification program for library support staff (LSS). (See http://www.ala-apa.org/lsscp/LSSCPNarrative.pdf for the complete grant narrative and for citations to the relevant studies.) One of the more relevant studies occurred in 2005 when the ALA Office for Human Resource Development and Recruitment (HRDR) sent a survey about professional development and certification to members of the Library Support Staff Interest Round Table (LSSIRT). Over 3,300 responded to the survey, and 86%of the respondents thought that a certification program would be beneficial; 76% said that nationally recognized professional standards were important; and 66% supported a national certification program to help them provide better service and grow in their understanding of librarianship.
The LSSCP Advisory Committee welcomes your comments on the Library Support Staff Certification Program (LSSCP). Send your comments to Jamie Bragg (jbragg@ala-apa.org) or to Jamie at ALA Headquarters, 50 East Huron Street, Chicago, IL 60611. There will be an Open Forum on LSSCP at the ALA Midwinter meeting in Denver, CO, on Saturday, January 24 from 10:30am till noon at the Colorado Convention Center, Room 702. Comments will be accepted by mail or email until January 31, 2009, when revisions based on the comments will be made. All documents relating to LSSCP, are available at www.ala-apa.org/lsscp, including expanded versions of these topics. Those unable to attend the Open Forum at the Midwinter meeting may comment via blog postings at www.lsscp.blogspot.com, beginning December 19.
A Briefing for Discussion
The Institute of Museum and Library Services awarded a Laura Bush - Librarians for the 21st Century grant to the American Library Association (ALA) and the Western Council of State Libraries to support the “Library Support Staff Certification Program” (LSSCP) project. This project is developing a competency-based certification program for the approximately 160,150 library workers in positions not requiring a Master’s Degree in Library Science. The primary target audience is public and academic library support staff. The project began in July 2007 with the hiring of Karen Strege and Nancy Bolt as Project Directors. An Advisory Committee was formed with representatives from ALA divisions, round tables, committees and the Western Council of State Libraries.
The proposal grew out of many years of studies conducted by ALA and state organizations calling for a certification program for library support staff (LSS). (See http://www.ala-apa.org/lsscp/LSSCPNarrative.pdf for the complete grant narrative and for citations to the relevant studies.) One of the more relevant studies occurred in 2005 when the ALA Office for Human Resource Development and Recruitment (HRDR) sent a survey about professional development and certification to members of the Library Support Staff Interest Round Table (LSSIRT). Over 3,300 responded to the survey, and 86%of the respondents thought that a certification program would be beneficial; 76% said that nationally recognized professional standards were important; and 66% supported a national certification program to help them provide better service and grow in their understanding of librarianship.
The LSSCP Advisory Committee welcomes your comments on the Library Support Staff Certification Program (LSSCP). Send your comments to Jamie Bragg (jbragg@ala-apa.org) or to Jamie at ALA Headquarters, 50 East Huron Street, Chicago, IL 60611. There will be an Open Forum on LSSCP at the ALA Midwinter meeting in Denver, CO, on Saturday, January 24 from 10:30am till noon at the Colorado Convention Center, Room 702. Comments will be accepted by mail or email until January 31, 2009, when revisions based on the comments will be made. All documents relating to LSSCP, are available at www.ala-apa.org/lsscp, including expanded versions of these topics. Those unable to attend the Open Forum at the Midwinter meeting may comment via blog postings at www.lsscp.blogspot.com, beginning December 19.
Monday, December 22, 2008
Register NOW for the first-ever North Texas Conference for Library Supporters
Registration is now open for the first annual North Texas Conference for Library Supporters!!! This event is designed for
* Members of Library board members, Friends of the Library and library foundation members;
* Library volunteers and other supporters; and
* Library staff who work with any of the above.
Patrick Heath, TLA President-Elect and 1987-2007 Mayor of Boerne, TX, will deliver the keynote address, "Your Library Forms the Character of Your Community."
Scheduled for 8:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m. SATURDAY January 31, 2009 at the Lockheed Martin Recreation Area in southwest Fort Worth, the conference will feature
* Training Sessions,
* Dedicated Time to Visit the Exhibit Hall,
* Time for Networking with Peers, and
* Lunch and Refreshments!
IN ADDITION
Free exhibit space will be available to any library support group interested in
* Sharing their ideas,
* Promoting their events,
* Bragging on their successes, and / or
* Selling whatever products or services they use in fundraising.
To register, get more information or sign up for exhibit space, visit http://www.librarysupportersnetwork.com/conferencenews.html.
* Members of Library board members, Friends of the Library and library foundation members;
* Library volunteers and other supporters; and
* Library staff who work with any of the above.
Patrick Heath, TLA President-Elect and 1987-2007 Mayor of Boerne, TX, will deliver the keynote address, "Your Library Forms the Character of Your Community."
Scheduled for 8:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m. SATURDAY January 31, 2009 at the Lockheed Martin Recreation Area in southwest Fort Worth, the conference will feature
* Training Sessions,
* Dedicated Time to Visit the Exhibit Hall,
* Time for Networking with Peers, and
* Lunch and Refreshments!
IN ADDITION
Free exhibit space will be available to any library support group interested in
* Sharing their ideas,
* Promoting their events,
* Bragging on their successes, and / or
* Selling whatever products or services they use in fundraising.
To register, get more information or sign up for exhibit space, visit http://www.librarysupportersnetwork.com/conferencenews.html.
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
Looking for College Newspapers?
Check out Newslink - it includes campus newspapers from around the United States as well as select international campus papers.
This comes in handy for those who have family and friends scattered at different colleges around the world - now I can follow what is going on in my nieces worlds from one link!
This comes in handy for those who have family and friends scattered at different colleges around the world - now I can follow what is going on in my nieces worlds from one link!
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