The new year is always the perfect time for a brand new start. Countless memes shared on Facebook, Linkedin, Twitter and other social media sites have a common theme: the new year is the first page of a 365 page book with your story. What an inspiring thought. What will this year's story be for Librarian At Large? Hopefully, it will be one that mirrors the American Library Associations' President's initiative "Libraries Change Lives." This vision is from ALA's Presdient Barbara Stripling of transforming libraries, empowering individuals and transforming communities. Libraries are at a unique point where they can be the center of the community providing the leadership to forge through an era formed by the digital world.
In 2013, this initiative began with asking the question of how libraries have changed the lives of the patrons they serve in their community. Each story is unique and inspiring on it's own but when they are viewed together they all sing the same song. Libraries do matter because they offered a place to go after school, programs to help find jobs, and books to explore fictional worlds and debate ideas that were important to their lives. Most importantly, the libraries in every community offered the opportunity to make one's life better. In tangible ways, the library made a unique impact that could not be filled by other institutions in the community. The library stands alone as the one place where anyone, regardless of background in education, culture or economics, can use the resources that are available. On the Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/LibrariesChangedMyLife, there are inspirational stories that demonstrate this unique impact.
As libraries transform to fit the needs of the 21st century patron, librarians have found that the skills needed to navigate the labyrinth of information has become a little more cumbersome. Thus, librarians had to transform to in order to help patrons adapt to the ever changing landscape of digital information. If for nothing else, to keep patrons from going into information overload and grasping at any information, even if it doesn't fit their needs or answer the questions they had. This is truly the age where information is power. All the more reason why public libraries should remain open in urban settings where opportunities are minimal but the possibilities become endless once the community is empowered to grow and learn. The Ferguson Municipal Library is one such example of a empowering a community.
Every profession, every person should be inspired to look within to transform their own lives to make life a little better, brighter. than it was last year. Little things as simple as a thank you card can change an attitude or build a better relationship The stories of how libraries have changed lives are the "everyday" type of change that are unnoticeable at first but over time it is as bright as a candle in a dark room. Everyone sees it. With Librarian At Large, perhaps that means more story times in hospital settings with children, more workshops for adults who need to hone their job hunting skills or more author luncheons to introduce wonderful writers to new readers. It just seems all the ore worth it when realizing that what we do can have a positive impact in someone's life. When given that opportunity, how can it be turned away? Quit simply it can't
Showing posts with label American Library Association. Show all posts
Showing posts with label American Library Association. Show all posts
Monday, January 5, 2015
Monday, September 22, 2014
Why Would Little House on the Prarie Be Challenged?
The libraries across the country will be celebrating Banned Books this week. Banned books in America? Really? Well, actually not banned per se. More like challenged but it sounds so much more richer to say a book has been banned. In an effort to promote intellectual freedom, this is one way of getting attention about books, reading and libraries. To be clear, the First Amendment guarantees the right to say, write, believe or read anything without fear of punishment from the government. The list of books here, are widely available and anyone can read them if they choose. Judy Blume, Neil Gaiman and other authors can rest assured, this is still America and no books are truly banned. Just merely challenged. Having said that it's important to keep vigilant on the topic of banned books. It let's those who hold office know that the freedom to read is taken very seriously.
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To answer the question why would Little House on the Prairie penned by Laura Ingells Wilder be banned? According to parents in the Lafourche Parish schools, this book is offensive to Indians, in the political correct terms, Native Americans. In the book, which is historically accurate, the main characters describes the Native Americans in an unflattering light. Big deal. Is it so hard to teach children that historically that is how settlers in the west viewed the Native American culture? Thank goodness we are passed that now, right? For the record, this entire series has been given numerous awards, including one named after Ms. Wilder from the American Library Association, for making a positive addition to American Children's Literature.
Ms.Wilder is not alone in the "culturally insensitive" language department. Mark Twain's beloved The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn suffers the same attack for using the word "nigger". The book has even been published in a "friendly" version where the "n" word is removed completely. Any literary purist and historian will say this is not only ignorance at it's best but offensive at it's worst. It is agreed that every person deserves respect, but when making the accusation that the word is deeming in a tome that lifts up the value of friendship between the two boys is illogical to say the least. Leave the text alone, and discuss the book with children in order to give them the proper perspective on the text.
Gone With the Wind is another victim of accusations of racism. Margaret Mitchell's portrayal of black slaves as being simple minded was deemed as offensive in many communities. Again, if readers are to look at the historical context of the book, it falls in line with what the common thought was. History can not be changed but it should be understood in order for a society to learn from the mistakes of the past.
Lewis Carroll's Alice In Wonderland has always stood out as a classic tale in the fantasy genre. It has also earned the attention of those who wish to protect readers from dangerous books. In the 1900's at Woodsville High School in New Hampshire, the book was thought to have subconscious influences which leads the reader into sexual fantasies. One has to wonder how this community might have reacted to Fifty Shades of Gray had it been printed then? It would have made them blush several shades of pink to be sure.
To Kill A Mocking Bird, Harper Lee's tour de force, was banned in Hanover Virginia in 1966. Why? The plot was considered immoral because it dealt with rape. Also through out the story, racism is interwoven.
As a modern feminist writer Virginia Woolf broke many boundaries in her time. It comes as no surprise that one of her books would be challenged or banned. Due to the topics of gender changing and homosexuality, Orlando is definitely on the list of books that some thought should be forbidden.. This book is not one of her better known titles, but it is said that it was a "love" story written to a famous female of Woolf's day. The idea of changing one's gender and to have one women kiss another full on the lips "like a lover" was scandalous. In this day and age, not so shocking.
One for the pages of this can't be true but it is. In 1993, the community of Corona-Norco, California thought it was imperative to ban. Aldous Huxley's Brave New World because it focused too much on negativity. It's too bad that they didn't understand Huxley's true message of how humanity could be controlled if society gave their consent. Great book that could develop into greater discussions.
The Curious Incident of Dog In the Nighttime by Mark Haddon is a wonderful, delightful book that allows the reader to see the world through the eyes of a boy with Autism. In Tennessee, a writer has to beware of using the "F" word one time to many in their work or they may find that their book is not welcomed in their community. One school district in Tennessee did just that citing that while they are sure the students in the school were familiar with the "F" word, it does not mean that the school district should condone the use of vulgar language in literature.
In 1939, Grapes of Wrath literally came under fire in one community and banned in another due to it's offensive language. In East St. Louis, Illinois, the public library of this community burned the work by Steinbeck. Yes, burned. As in, light a match, toss the book in a bin and drop the match in the bin. The irrational behavior does not get rid of the book entirely. More copies can and were printed. Readers today still enjoy the book. In Buffalo New York, the public library there banned the books. It is reassuring to know that the book is still available for the citizens of Buffalo.
Last, but certainly not least Sid Sheldon's book, The Giving Tree came under criticism. This is due to the fact that the two main characters of the book, boy and tree, have an questionable relationship. Tree gives everything it has to the boy and the boy seems to never have enough and nothing to give to the tree. In 1988 it was banned in a public library in Colorado because it was considered "sexist". Well if that didn't work, it has been challenged in some public school libraries for criminalizing the forestry industry. Seriously, some adult look too deeply into a book to try to find something that's not there.
Ten books that may make readers to pause, scratch their heads and say this is nuts. Books may be challenged, they can even be banned but in the end, they will always find a way into someone's hands who will appreciate a good story. Do something daring today, go out and read a dangerous book. As a matter of fact, share it with someone you love.
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To answer the question why would Little House on the Prairie penned by Laura Ingells Wilder be banned? According to parents in the Lafourche Parish schools, this book is offensive to Indians, in the political correct terms, Native Americans. In the book, which is historically accurate, the main characters describes the Native Americans in an unflattering light. Big deal. Is it so hard to teach children that historically that is how settlers in the west viewed the Native American culture? Thank goodness we are passed that now, right? For the record, this entire series has been given numerous awards, including one named after Ms. Wilder from the American Library Association, for making a positive addition to American Children's Literature.
Ms.Wilder is not alone in the "culturally insensitive" language department. Mark Twain's beloved The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn suffers the same attack for using the word "nigger". The book has even been published in a "friendly" version where the "n" word is removed completely. Any literary purist and historian will say this is not only ignorance at it's best but offensive at it's worst. It is agreed that every person deserves respect, but when making the accusation that the word is deeming in a tome that lifts up the value of friendship between the two boys is illogical to say the least. Leave the text alone, and discuss the book with children in order to give them the proper perspective on the text.
Gone With the Wind is another victim of accusations of racism. Margaret Mitchell's portrayal of black slaves as being simple minded was deemed as offensive in many communities. Again, if readers are to look at the historical context of the book, it falls in line with what the common thought was. History can not be changed but it should be understood in order for a society to learn from the mistakes of the past.
Lewis Carroll's Alice In Wonderland has always stood out as a classic tale in the fantasy genre. It has also earned the attention of those who wish to protect readers from dangerous books. In the 1900's at Woodsville High School in New Hampshire, the book was thought to have subconscious influences which leads the reader into sexual fantasies. One has to wonder how this community might have reacted to Fifty Shades of Gray had it been printed then? It would have made them blush several shades of pink to be sure.
To Kill A Mocking Bird, Harper Lee's tour de force, was banned in Hanover Virginia in 1966. Why? The plot was considered immoral because it dealt with rape. Also through out the story, racism is interwoven.
As a modern feminist writer Virginia Woolf broke many boundaries in her time. It comes as no surprise that one of her books would be challenged or banned. Due to the topics of gender changing and homosexuality, Orlando is definitely on the list of books that some thought should be forbidden.. This book is not one of her better known titles, but it is said that it was a "love" story written to a famous female of Woolf's day. The idea of changing one's gender and to have one women kiss another full on the lips "like a lover" was scandalous. In this day and age, not so shocking.
One for the pages of this can't be true but it is. In 1993, the community of Corona-Norco, California thought it was imperative to ban. Aldous Huxley's Brave New World because it focused too much on negativity. It's too bad that they didn't understand Huxley's true message of how humanity could be controlled if society gave their consent. Great book that could develop into greater discussions.
The Curious Incident of Dog In the Nighttime by Mark Haddon is a wonderful, delightful book that allows the reader to see the world through the eyes of a boy with Autism. In Tennessee, a writer has to beware of using the "F" word one time to many in their work or they may find that their book is not welcomed in their community. One school district in Tennessee did just that citing that while they are sure the students in the school were familiar with the "F" word, it does not mean that the school district should condone the use of vulgar language in literature.
In 1939, Grapes of Wrath literally came under fire in one community and banned in another due to it's offensive language. In East St. Louis, Illinois, the public library of this community burned the work by Steinbeck. Yes, burned. As in, light a match, toss the book in a bin and drop the match in the bin. The irrational behavior does not get rid of the book entirely. More copies can and were printed. Readers today still enjoy the book. In Buffalo New York, the public library there banned the books. It is reassuring to know that the book is still available for the citizens of Buffalo.
Last, but certainly not least Sid Sheldon's book, The Giving Tree came under criticism. This is due to the fact that the two main characters of the book, boy and tree, have an questionable relationship. Tree gives everything it has to the boy and the boy seems to never have enough and nothing to give to the tree. In 1988 it was banned in a public library in Colorado because it was considered "sexist". Well if that didn't work, it has been challenged in some public school libraries for criminalizing the forestry industry. Seriously, some adult look too deeply into a book to try to find something that's not there.
Ten books that may make readers to pause, scratch their heads and say this is nuts. Books may be challenged, they can even be banned but in the end, they will always find a way into someone's hands who will appreciate a good story. Do something daring today, go out and read a dangerous book. As a matter of fact, share it with someone you love.
Monday, April 29, 2013
Things That Go Batty In the Library
It goes without saying that there is never a dull moment in a public library. A reference question can either cause a librarian to go on a wold goose chase or leave one scratching their heads wondering what really is going on in a patron's mind when they asked a particular question. Let's face it anyone who has spent anytime on a reference desk will have wonderful stories that they retell over and over again about their most memorable patron. Here's a few to get a few smiles on a Monday as we start the week.
As a fresh out of grad school librarian working in a mid-sized public library on a Saturday the typical reference questions are expected. Like the homework assignments on the plants or the latest book by Dean Koontz. On this particular saturday a woman in her late fifties maybe early sixties comes up to the desk and inquires about books on medical surgeries. As a young librarian eager to help, the reference interview goes as follows: Young Librarian: "Is this pertaining to patient health information, to help you decide if you want to have the surgery done?" Patron responds, "No. I want to know how to perform the surgery." Young librarian: "I see. Books of those nature are not normally found in a public library but you may want to consult a medical library. I would be more than happy to direct you to the health information center or the area where books on the human body can be found." Patron looking perplexed, " You don't have books on how to do surgery?" Young librarian, smiles and answers politely, "No I'm sorry we do not." Patron responses, "Well, I just want to do the surgery myself. I don't trust the doctor to work on my husband." With that the patron walks away. As the patron walks away, the librarian can't help but wonder who to be more sorry for, the wife or the husband.
Phone calls coming into the library are a cross between the super easy to the I'm not sure why you called category. Most of the times patrons calling in are asking non reference questions such as "What time do you close?" or "When is the teen program starting?" Simple. Direct. No brainer questions right. Then there are times when patrons call in with spelling questions. Again, no brainer for the most part. Unless the patron not only questions the librarian's ability to look up a word but also the authority of the author of the dictionary. This is too weird to even make up. A man called up his local library to inquire how to spell apprentice. As all well trained librarians know, the best source to use is a Webster's dictionary. After looking up the word, the librarian then proceeds to spell the word to the patron. Patron replies, "Are you sure? That doesn't look right." The librarian quotes her source that she is using the Webster's Dictionary copyright 2010. After a brief pause, "Is he an expert in English grammar and spelling?" The librarian not knowing if this is a prank or not, reassures the patron that Webster has been established as "the source" on spelling since the beginnings of American's history. The man then replies, "Well there must have been a typo in the printing of this dictionary that no one caught, because he got it wrong. You may want to find another dictionary to buy next time, He probably got other words wrong too." With that he hung up. Hmm. Poor Daniel Webster, he's been dissed and can't even defend his work!
Last but certainly not least of the examples here, is a story of a child who loved her library so much that she didn't want to leave. After a story time, a little girl and her mother go to the children's room to browse through the stacks to find books to take home. After about twenty minutes, the mother informs her daughter that they have to leave. The little girl looks up and says, "but I'm reading a book." The mother responds that they can check out the book and the girl can continue reading it at home. "No." says the little girl and continues to read her book. The mother decides a couple of more minutes at the library will not hurt anything, so she informs her daughter that she is going to look for a book for herself. When she returns the little girl should be ready to leave. The girl does not even look up and acknowledges what her mother has just said. She continues to read and looks totally absorbed in the story. The mother than leaves the room and after fifteen minutes she returns to find her daughter right where she left her. Busy with her nose in the book. "Honey, it's time to go." she gently nudges her daughter, to which the daughter responds, "Nope. Not ready. I need to finish this book." Mother clearly getting a little upset, " Don't be impossible. You can check out that book and finnish it at home." To which the girl replies, "But I don't have a library at home and it's the best place for me to read." The mother pauses and says, "Well, you can pretend you have a library at home and read in your bedroom where it's nice and quiet." Without blinking an eye the daughter says, "In my bedroom I sleep. In the library I read. You just want me to nap instead of reading." The girl continues on with reading her book. The mother uses one last attempt to reason with her daughter before she is forced to close the book and pick up her daughter, forcing her to leave. "If you don't get up right now, I'm going to leave you here all alone." the girl with big blue eyes, finally takes her eyes off her book, and says "Go ahead. I'm safe here with plenty of books to read." With that last statement, the mother takes the book for the child, puts it in her library bag to check out and picks up a the girl who is now wailing and letting everyone within the library know, "I LOVE MY BOKKS! I WANT MY BOOKS" Aw, if only that could be captured in a PSA for libraries!
Everyday there is something new to talk about in the library. What makes libraries wonderful are the patrons who visit them on a regular bases. Without them, the libraries' story would not be interesting or inviting. Perhaps, the American Library Association should promote a National Library Patron Appreciation Day. AFter all without them, libraries would have no reason to exist.
Saturday, September 29, 2012
The Evolution of "Geek" In The Library
Back in the day, about thirty or so years ago, a college student spending a Saturday night at the library would have been labeled a geek. Translation of that label would mean that the student was too smart to know that they should have life like the other students who are at an afterglow party of a football game. Spending the Saturday night at the library did not fit the "normal" student's weekend plans. It's sort of ironic that the I "geek" the library theme would become popular years later. It seems that the library marketers thought it was time for everyone to "embrace' their inner geek. Is this the best marketing approach to take? At first, the answer from this blog was no. However, after viewing how some library communities took this theme and made it their own, there can be a positive outcome.
When a library community embraces an ad campaign such as the "I Geek" it takes on a life of its own. How can this simple phrase include the community? By asking patrons what they "geek" and displaying their response for the community to view. The concept is simple: Who doesn't love to talk about themselves and their hobbies? Virtually everyone that comes into the library has a reason for coming but now with the "I Geek" theme they have a reason to share what they know, what they love and why the love it. Wouldn't it be wonderful if several patrons responded with "I geek mysteries" and from that they decide they would love to form a mystery book discussion group at the library. It's a librarian's dream come true to have a program started without that much sweat and pain! It's almost as simple as just add water and watch the program grow.
Professional marketers will tell you the success or failure of a campaign depends on all around support from the employees, to the consumers (for the library, that's the patrons) to the executives of the organization. Libraries who found success with the campaign had the same things in common, support for the library administrators who encouraged employees to display their "geek" with geek t-shirts and jeans day, support from staff who were creative with programs that revolved around the theme and an enthusiastic patron base who not only shared what they geeked but spread the word to others in the community about the great programming at the library. Without this chain reaction, the campaign may not have caught on. If that were the case, library administrators would have to evaluate why it did not catch on in their community.
Perhaps, this is just an idea in draft mode, the next campaign from ALA should be "My Library Rocks " and have patron fill in the blank as to why their library is so awesome. It is something worth looking into especially during this economic down turn when library usage is up. Libraries rock for so many reasons from providing computer usage to story times for the young ones and information for the upcoming election season. Yes, I geek was a good marketing tool but it's time to tweak it to evolve into another campaign. Frankly, "My Library Rocks" has a nice ring to it. Don't you agree?
Friday, September 2, 2011
Fearless, Flexible and Focused : Qualities of a Children's Librarian
Ah, the wonderful, crazy and often unpredictable world of a children's librarian is never dull. The only workplace where anything can happen from spontaneous giggling fits over a computer screen to clean up down the picture book isle and everything in between. Seriously, there is never a dull moment. However, if searching for the ultimate dull job, try a night security guard at the graveyard. it's lonely and quite and no one every wants excitement there. Think becoming a children's libraries is a good idea? The best librarians in Youth Services department have these three special "qualities": Fearless, Flexible and Focused. Without these qualities, it's better to apply for the "safe" jobs then to interact with young children at the library.
Why does it help to be Fearless? For so many reasons that it is hard to count. For the sake of time, the best scenario to illustrate this point is hosting a program where a naturalist nutritionist prepares snakes with bugs as it the main ingredients. Dare the patron to eat just one, and see how many will take up the challenge. Be prepared to be tested by the youngsters and try a bug or two. Yum! (Not!)
On a more practical side to being fearless is the willingness to go out on a limb with an idea and a hope that it will inspire youngsters to keep reading and returning to the library. Will the program or idea work? As the old saying goes: Nothing ventured, nothing gained.
Flexible is a term to describe the ability to bend or move in any direction without too much effort or pain. children's library programs can be fun to plan but nerve racking if a librarian expects everything to run perfectly and according to a planned script. A cancelled performer due to sickness, Three Stoodges marathon delayed due to technical difficulty, or tye-dye shirt design gone amuck. (Actually gone on the floor - YIKES!) All in the name of a providing a safe haven for children to be entertained.
On the practical side of being flexible is that a librarian is humbly reminded that sometimes life does not go according to plans. Not only that, children can be a lot more forgiving and blind to mistakes than adults. As long as they are having fun, the program was perfect enough for them.
Focused sounds boring, stuffy and rigid. It's not. It simply implies that children's librarians must be keenly aware of their patrons, needs, wants and likes. What's hot, what's not and what's cool or what's lame. That's just talking about the preschoolers, the tweens and the teens. Included with this group of demanding patrons are the parents who are looking for guidance in early literacy and grandparents who have their grandchildren visiting for the weekend.
The practical side to being focused is never losing site of who the customer is and always looking for opportunities to learn and grow with the "kids". It is one of the few profession that pulls together, learning, fun and never growing old. A wise person once wrote, "As long as the brain is able to continue to discover new ideas and learn new tricks, one will never grow old." Who said this? A children's librarian in Michigan who loves her chosen field.
Why does it help to be Fearless? For so many reasons that it is hard to count. For the sake of time, the best scenario to illustrate this point is hosting a program where a naturalist nutritionist prepares snakes with bugs as it the main ingredients. Dare the patron to eat just one, and see how many will take up the challenge. Be prepared to be tested by the youngsters and try a bug or two. Yum! (Not!)
On a more practical side to being fearless is the willingness to go out on a limb with an idea and a hope that it will inspire youngsters to keep reading and returning to the library. Will the program or idea work? As the old saying goes: Nothing ventured, nothing gained.
Flexible is a term to describe the ability to bend or move in any direction without too much effort or pain. children's library programs can be fun to plan but nerve racking if a librarian expects everything to run perfectly and according to a planned script. A cancelled performer due to sickness, Three Stoodges marathon delayed due to technical difficulty, or tye-dye shirt design gone amuck. (Actually gone on the floor - YIKES!) All in the name of a providing a safe haven for children to be entertained.
On the practical side of being flexible is that a librarian is humbly reminded that sometimes life does not go according to plans. Not only that, children can be a lot more forgiving and blind to mistakes than adults. As long as they are having fun, the program was perfect enough for them.
Focused sounds boring, stuffy and rigid. It's not. It simply implies that children's librarians must be keenly aware of their patrons, needs, wants and likes. What's hot, what's not and what's cool or what's lame. That's just talking about the preschoolers, the tweens and the teens. Included with this group of demanding patrons are the parents who are looking for guidance in early literacy and grandparents who have their grandchildren visiting for the weekend.
The practical side to being focused is never losing site of who the customer is and always looking for opportunities to learn and grow with the "kids". It is one of the few profession that pulls together, learning, fun and never growing old. A wise person once wrote, "As long as the brain is able to continue to discover new ideas and learn new tricks, one will never grow old." Who said this? A children's librarian in Michigan who loves her chosen field.
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
What's In Your Wallet? National Library Card Month
Capital One at one point had a wonderful slogan, which simply asked "What's In your wallet?" The suggestion here was that if a person didn't have a personalized credit card from Capital One, their wallet would be missing something pertinent. Borrowing that idea for National Library Card Sign Up Month, libraries should be asking their patrons the same question: What's in your wallet? If a library card is not among the cards that they hold, now is a good time as any to get one. The recognition of the importance of holding a library card is not only a wonderful marketing tool but also advocacy. Looking for easy ways to promote library cards to your community? Read on, there's a few here to borrow or that might spark the imagination to try something totally new and creative at your library.
* The Suburban Library Cooperative in Michigan has gone to neighboring businesses asking them to support the local libraries by offering customers coupons, discounts or special offers just for showing their library card. In return, libraries will promote these businesses in their libraries as participants and encourage patrons to support these businesses. It's a win win situation which promotes building relationships within the community. This can only lead to good things.
* Orange County Library in North Carolina is celebrating NLCM by accepting one non-perishable food item, in return they will waive $1.00 in overdue charges. Patrons of the library will have the opportunity to receive free replacement Library Cards between September 16th through 30th. Another great idea to inspire communities to help others in need and support the library at the same time.
* Richmond County Libraries are offering children in grades 6-8 an opportunity to win an iPod Shuffle if they register for a library card during the month of September. New registrations will be entered into a drawing to win an iPod Shuffle. How's that for motiving young library users?
* Carlsbad City Library is celebrating with a Library Card Sign-up Festival on September 21. Children and teens come to sign up for their first card and receive a small prize. Children who already have their own card can show it off and receive a prize as well. Who doesn't love free gifts?
* Invite young patrons to create bookmarks that uses catchy slogans to encourage patrons to get a library card. For example: Don't leave home without it: Your Library Card. The most creative bookmark can be published and passed out to patrons and local schools.
Reminding schools, parents and public officials that the library is an important asset to the community is as simple as reminding them what they get from their library cards. Internet services, books, ebooks, cds, movies and much more. It is a better value than a Capital One credit card in many ways. A patron will not get a bill at the end of the month (provided they return the items), the "education" and "entertainment" gained belongs to the patrons, and it can be used again and again without penalty. In other words it's "priceless" Sorry MasterCard, it's better than your plastic!
* The Suburban Library Cooperative in Michigan has gone to neighboring businesses asking them to support the local libraries by offering customers coupons, discounts or special offers just for showing their library card. In return, libraries will promote these businesses in their libraries as participants and encourage patrons to support these businesses. It's a win win situation which promotes building relationships within the community. This can only lead to good things.
* Orange County Library in North Carolina is celebrating NLCM by accepting one non-perishable food item, in return they will waive $1.00 in overdue charges. Patrons of the library will have the opportunity to receive free replacement Library Cards between September 16th through 30th. Another great idea to inspire communities to help others in need and support the library at the same time.
* Richmond County Libraries are offering children in grades 6-8 an opportunity to win an iPod Shuffle if they register for a library card during the month of September. New registrations will be entered into a drawing to win an iPod Shuffle. How's that for motiving young library users?
* Carlsbad City Library is celebrating with a Library Card Sign-up Festival on September 21. Children and teens come to sign up for their first card and receive a small prize. Children who already have their own card can show it off and receive a prize as well. Who doesn't love free gifts?
* Invite young patrons to create bookmarks that uses catchy slogans to encourage patrons to get a library card. For example: Don't leave home without it: Your Library Card. The most creative bookmark can be published and passed out to patrons and local schools.
Reminding schools, parents and public officials that the library is an important asset to the community is as simple as reminding them what they get from their library cards. Internet services, books, ebooks, cds, movies and much more. It is a better value than a Capital One credit card in many ways. A patron will not get a bill at the end of the month (provided they return the items), the "education" and "entertainment" gained belongs to the patrons, and it can be used again and again without penalty. In other words it's "priceless" Sorry MasterCard, it's better than your plastic!
Tuesday, August 16, 2011
American Libraries Winning Streak! .
in recent months, good news about libraries have graced the pages of newspapers across the country. It gives hope for that their is a bright future for libraries. For the doubters, who have long since decided that libraries are archaic institutions, this should be proof that libraries are a valuable asset in the community. For those who have been fighting to save libraries, small and large, welcome the victory but have known all along a community without a library is a community on life support. This is hardly a time to retreat, pack up and go home. Instead there are many more battles that lie ahead. This is a good opportunity to look at some of the bigger "wins" and take note of what it took to win the battle.
Los Angeles' libraries were facing dire times. Not only were libraries closing, but popular TV night time hosts were making jokes about the lack of need for for the libraries. Jay Leno, had stuck his foot in his mouth that night and promptly received the ire of many library advocates, (among them American Library Association). This lead to his apology the next night. In reality, the Los Angeles libraries were severing their citizens quite well on a day to day basis, but like other libraries, city budget battles were placing them on the chopping blocks. In March of 2011 the citizens of Los Angeles voted YES to Measure L, which would keep the libraries funded and open. How did this measure pass when everyone is aware of LA's financial status, not to mention California's financial mess? Key groups coming together for a common goal. The combination of a $200.000 financial donation from the the Library Foundation of Los Angeles and a coalition of library advocates, teachers, and librarians who campaigned for the passage of Measure L, gave strength to the failing libraries. Make no mistake, this was and is a big win for libraries all across the United States.
On the other coast, New York City to be precise, the same battles facing Los Angeles' libraries were in play here as well. On the iconic steps of the New York City library, library supports gave the library a "hug" to show their support for the library budget restoration. Days later, Mayor Bloomberg must have gotten the message for the "311" calls that were made by library advocates demanding that the Big Apple did not lose it's core service,namely the library. In New York City's case the the Save NYC Libraries Postcard Campaign sent the message loud and clear to city council members about citizen's needs for the library. Over 4,000 postcards were written, collected and handed to Councilmember Jimmy Van Bramer on June 17, 2011. If the 4,000 postcards didn't bring home the message the 200,000 signatures on a corresponding petition drove the point home. Budget battles never die, they live to fight for another day. Rest assured NYC library advocates will be calling on their supporters when libraries are on the chopping blocks.
Last but not least, Troy Public Library, in southeastern Michigan, won a huge battle on August 2 to save the library. The history of the mileages that were put on the ballot over the past year is so convoluted that it could read like a children's book "The Library That Could". The first mileage failed miserably due to the propaganda that tax payers didn't want or need more taxes. The second milage attempt failed because city council decided that confusing voters with four different library proposals would be the ideal way of "informing" the public. Not! The thidr attempt was a straight yes or no vote to continue funding the library for five years with the residents seeing a $68 increase in property taxes to cover the expense of the library. The staff of Troy Public Library should be commended for informing their patrons in clear terms what losing a library would mean to their daily lives. The win on August 2, was the "third" charm and all of Southeastern Michigan let go of a collective sigh of relief. Losing the library would have meant that Troy citizens would not have access to local libraries borrowing privileges. The city of Troy and many like them around Michigan have already lost too much in the recession. key services such as children's programming, internet , and job search resources would have been another slam on residents.
Libraries are beginning to win the fight to remain open. The only way to continue the winning streak is to gather as much "team" support for libraries as possible. Not to mention a marketing campaign that not only informs the public about the value of libraries but also invites them to see what the library has to offer. Voters who oppose library funding most likely have not been in a library for years. It's time to bring them back in order to show that libraries are not archaic, but thriving with old and new resources that bring information to them by traditional and digital means. For those voters who love libraries and consistently vote YES to library mileages, invite them also to be the voice of the library that the community needs to hear. They are and will always be our best cheerleaders!
Los Angeles' libraries were facing dire times. Not only were libraries closing, but popular TV night time hosts were making jokes about the lack of need for for the libraries. Jay Leno, had stuck his foot in his mouth that night and promptly received the ire of many library advocates, (among them American Library Association). This lead to his apology the next night. In reality, the Los Angeles libraries were severing their citizens quite well on a day to day basis, but like other libraries, city budget battles were placing them on the chopping blocks. In March of 2011 the citizens of Los Angeles voted YES to Measure L, which would keep the libraries funded and open. How did this measure pass when everyone is aware of LA's financial status, not to mention California's financial mess? Key groups coming together for a common goal. The combination of a $200.000 financial donation from the the Library Foundation of Los Angeles and a coalition of library advocates, teachers, and librarians who campaigned for the passage of Measure L, gave strength to the failing libraries. Make no mistake, this was and is a big win for libraries all across the United States.
On the other coast, New York City to be precise, the same battles facing Los Angeles' libraries were in play here as well. On the iconic steps of the New York City library, library supports gave the library a "hug" to show their support for the library budget restoration. Days later, Mayor Bloomberg must have gotten the message for the "311" calls that were made by library advocates demanding that the Big Apple did not lose it's core service,namely the library. In New York City's case the the Save NYC Libraries Postcard Campaign sent the message loud and clear to city council members about citizen's needs for the library. Over 4,000 postcards were written, collected and handed to Councilmember Jimmy Van Bramer on June 17, 2011. If the 4,000 postcards didn't bring home the message the 200,000 signatures on a corresponding petition drove the point home. Budget battles never die, they live to fight for another day. Rest assured NYC library advocates will be calling on their supporters when libraries are on the chopping blocks.
Last but not least, Troy Public Library, in southeastern Michigan, won a huge battle on August 2 to save the library. The history of the mileages that were put on the ballot over the past year is so convoluted that it could read like a children's book "The Library That Could". The first mileage failed miserably due to the propaganda that tax payers didn't want or need more taxes. The second milage attempt failed because city council decided that confusing voters with four different library proposals would be the ideal way of "informing" the public. Not! The thidr attempt was a straight yes or no vote to continue funding the library for five years with the residents seeing a $68 increase in property taxes to cover the expense of the library. The staff of Troy Public Library should be commended for informing their patrons in clear terms what losing a library would mean to their daily lives. The win on August 2, was the "third" charm and all of Southeastern Michigan let go of a collective sigh of relief. Losing the library would have meant that Troy citizens would not have access to local libraries borrowing privileges. The city of Troy and many like them around Michigan have already lost too much in the recession. key services such as children's programming, internet , and job search resources would have been another slam on residents.
Libraries are beginning to win the fight to remain open. The only way to continue the winning streak is to gather as much "team" support for libraries as possible. Not to mention a marketing campaign that not only informs the public about the value of libraries but also invites them to see what the library has to offer. Voters who oppose library funding most likely have not been in a library for years. It's time to bring them back in order to show that libraries are not archaic, but thriving with old and new resources that bring information to them by traditional and digital means. For those voters who love libraries and consistently vote YES to library mileages, invite them also to be the voice of the library that the community needs to hear. They are and will always be our best cheerleaders!
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
Finding, Building and Gaining Support For Librareis
Some things never stay the same. That is a good thing. Same old, same old tends to go out of style quickly. This is especially true in a society that craves something new every five minutes. This is just a hunch, but it may have to do with the fact that computers and other technical advances become outdated the minute the buyer opens the box. Having said that, becoming too trendy is not a good thing when seeking longevity. If libraries are hoping for longevity and keeping up with the latest and greatest gadgets, it is important to aim for a happy balance.
Economic hard times often bring libraries to the forefront of a community. People with less cash in their pockets turn to their local library for information and entertainment. This is the one place in the community where every family can benefit from and enjoy. With recent libraries closings and libraries' hours of operation being cut, families must decide if it is worth it to fight to keep their libraries open or find an alternate place to fulfill their need for books, entertainment and education. It is up to librarians and library advocate to convince the families that fighting the good fight to keep libraries open is not only worth it but also necessary.
The first step to building support for libraries is to take the politics out of libraries and make it a universal need. Politicians, whether they are Independent, Republican or Democrat, should support libraries. There are no logical reasons why legislators would vote down funding for libraries. The idea of a free library is key to this country's ability to remain a free society. This include public, academic and school libraries. The American Library Association has created a link on their web page which provides a scorecard for how legislators voted on library issues. http://www.ala.org/ala/issuesadvocacy/advocacy/federallegislation/legscard/index.cfm This is handy not only to find out the particulars of a vote but also to keep lawmakers accountable for their vote. If certain legislators consistently vote against libraries, it would be time to either educate them on the value of libraries or vote them out of office.
Secondly, it is important to educate voters on how libraries have evolved in order to continue providing relevant and reliable resources. If libraries continue to rely on the "past" as a reason to support the argument that libraries are essential. Then we are doomed as a profession. In many people's mind library is a dusty old place with books with fading yellow pages, old equipment and little old ladies with silver hair admonishing people to "Be Quiet." Those days are long over and it's time to set the record straight. Libraries can be technologically advanced when given the proper funding and support. Without this support, free WiFi, databases and card catalogs would not be available. Consider that in the State of Michigan, funding of libraries have been cut so drastically that it has literally taken Michigan libraries back fifty years. The reality becomes that it will be that much harder to hang on to remain reliable and relevant. For some libraries, they are barely hanging as it is. The cuts adds salt to the wounds.
Finally, be an active participant in Virtual Library Legislative Day on May 10, 2010. It's as easy as clicking onto the website www.ilovelibraries.org. From there anyone can find their legislators and contact them to let them know just how important libraries are to their communities. This can be done from your home and takes just five minutes. Once you have done your part, invite your family and friends to do the same. Legislators need to hear loud and clear that libraries are too important to just board up and abandon.
Libraries are not about keeping things the same. Rather, libraries about shaking things up and finding new ways to enrich the lives of patrons with the resources they need to make their lives better. Could their be any better reason to serve the community?
Economic hard times often bring libraries to the forefront of a community. People with less cash in their pockets turn to their local library for information and entertainment. This is the one place in the community where every family can benefit from and enjoy. With recent libraries closings and libraries' hours of operation being cut, families must decide if it is worth it to fight to keep their libraries open or find an alternate place to fulfill their need for books, entertainment and education. It is up to librarians and library advocate to convince the families that fighting the good fight to keep libraries open is not only worth it but also necessary.
The first step to building support for libraries is to take the politics out of libraries and make it a universal need. Politicians, whether they are Independent, Republican or Democrat, should support libraries. There are no logical reasons why legislators would vote down funding for libraries. The idea of a free library is key to this country's ability to remain a free society. This include public, academic and school libraries. The American Library Association has created a link on their web page which provides a scorecard for how legislators voted on library issues. http://www.ala.org/ala/issuesadvocacy/advocacy/federallegislation/legscard/index.cfm This is handy not only to find out the particulars of a vote but also to keep lawmakers accountable for their vote. If certain legislators consistently vote against libraries, it would be time to either educate them on the value of libraries or vote them out of office.
Secondly, it is important to educate voters on how libraries have evolved in order to continue providing relevant and reliable resources. If libraries continue to rely on the "past" as a reason to support the argument that libraries are essential. Then we are doomed as a profession. In many people's mind library is a dusty old place with books with fading yellow pages, old equipment and little old ladies with silver hair admonishing people to "Be Quiet." Those days are long over and it's time to set the record straight. Libraries can be technologically advanced when given the proper funding and support. Without this support, free WiFi, databases and card catalogs would not be available. Consider that in the State of Michigan, funding of libraries have been cut so drastically that it has literally taken Michigan libraries back fifty years. The reality becomes that it will be that much harder to hang on to remain reliable and relevant. For some libraries, they are barely hanging as it is. The cuts adds salt to the wounds.
Finally, be an active participant in Virtual Library Legislative Day on May 10, 2010. It's as easy as clicking onto the website www.ilovelibraries.org. From there anyone can find their legislators and contact them to let them know just how important libraries are to their communities. This can be done from your home and takes just five minutes. Once you have done your part, invite your family and friends to do the same. Legislators need to hear loud and clear that libraries are too important to just board up and abandon.
Libraries are not about keeping things the same. Rather, libraries about shaking things up and finding new ways to enrich the lives of patrons with the resources they need to make their lives better. Could their be any better reason to serve the community?
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
A Look At State of America's Libraries Report
On Monday, the American Library Association released their report on the state of libraries in our country. The facts that were uncovered were not surprising. The trend in libraries has always been that when tough economic times hit library services are in high demand. It is not even surprising that libraries are find ways of doing more with less. Librarians have had a talent for doing this for years. It is a miracle that many of our nation's libraries have remained open and it is in large part to librarians and advocates who diligently serve the public with the best possible service. What is surprising and encouraging to note is that Americans do see the value in their libraries. This would indicate that the message is getting out about the library's role in the community. While this is terrific news, it is also a "call" to continue putting the library at the forefront of community news. In advertising, it's all about being seen.
The picture of today's American library is of an institution that passes the test of time. Americans still see the public library as the "source" for books, information and lifelong learning. There may be some misconceptions that libraries are "archaic" but it is few and far between. Avid library users know that libraries today have wifi services, internet access, electronic databases and ebooks. it may not look like your grandfather's library but it still provides the opportunity for lifelong learning as well as entertainment. For the nay sayers who believe that the library's days are long gone have not walked into a library lately. If they had, they would see the enormous change and realize what they have been missing.
It would be misleading not to mention the communities that lost their libraries due to mileages failing or city councils who refused to find a way to keep the "jewel" of the community. One closed library is one too many. Having said that, a valuable lesson can be learned from these unfortunate circumstances. When communities lose a library, it is not just losing a building that holds books. It is essentially cutting off the information flow to the public. As an example, in my own backyard, Troy Public Library will be closing it's doors soon. For good. Most of Troy's citizens do not realize that this means library services will not be available to them anywhere in Southeast Michigan. The surrounding libraries that provided reciprocal borrowing to Troy residents in the past will no longer provide that service. Leaving Troy residents with a locked up library. Sure they can visit a library, but internet access, borrowing materials and perhaps some programs will not be available to them. In situations like this, it seems that a PSA ad would do wonders to demonstrate what is lost when a library closes its doors. Its all about showing a picture that speaks louder than words.
Libraries have been known to take a couple of punches, get knocked down and get back on their feet again. Just like any other industries, there are cycles of good times and bad. What makes this year different is that unlike previous years, libraries have many more outspoken supporters. This can only lead to good things for the future. Stories of eight year olds like Paul Valleau, patron at Jersey City Public Library starting a fund raiser for the local library not only warms the heart, but gives hope that the generation that seems to be glued to their computer gadgets and cell phones will want and need libraries in their busy lives. If the message of this year's State of America's Libraries Report suggests anything, it is that now is the time for libraries to be visible, vibrant and valiantly defending the rights of all citizens to have access to libraries.
The picture of today's American library is of an institution that passes the test of time. Americans still see the public library as the "source" for books, information and lifelong learning. There may be some misconceptions that libraries are "archaic" but it is few and far between. Avid library users know that libraries today have wifi services, internet access, electronic databases and ebooks. it may not look like your grandfather's library but it still provides the opportunity for lifelong learning as well as entertainment. For the nay sayers who believe that the library's days are long gone have not walked into a library lately. If they had, they would see the enormous change and realize what they have been missing.
It would be misleading not to mention the communities that lost their libraries due to mileages failing or city councils who refused to find a way to keep the "jewel" of the community. One closed library is one too many. Having said that, a valuable lesson can be learned from these unfortunate circumstances. When communities lose a library, it is not just losing a building that holds books. It is essentially cutting off the information flow to the public. As an example, in my own backyard, Troy Public Library will be closing it's doors soon. For good. Most of Troy's citizens do not realize that this means library services will not be available to them anywhere in Southeast Michigan. The surrounding libraries that provided reciprocal borrowing to Troy residents in the past will no longer provide that service. Leaving Troy residents with a locked up library. Sure they can visit a library, but internet access, borrowing materials and perhaps some programs will not be available to them. In situations like this, it seems that a PSA ad would do wonders to demonstrate what is lost when a library closes its doors. Its all about showing a picture that speaks louder than words.
Libraries have been known to take a couple of punches, get knocked down and get back on their feet again. Just like any other industries, there are cycles of good times and bad. What makes this year different is that unlike previous years, libraries have many more outspoken supporters. This can only lead to good things for the future. Stories of eight year olds like Paul Valleau, patron at Jersey City Public Library starting a fund raiser for the local library not only warms the heart, but gives hope that the generation that seems to be glued to their computer gadgets and cell phones will want and need libraries in their busy lives. If the message of this year's State of America's Libraries Report suggests anything, it is that now is the time for libraries to be visible, vibrant and valiantly defending the rights of all citizens to have access to libraries.
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
Pass On The Joy Of Reading Donate A BooK!
This month libraries will be celebrating National Library week beginning April 10th. One may think that for many libraries there is not be much to celebrate because of budget cuts, library closings or staff furloughs. As any optimist will say, there is still plenty of other positives to celebrate when it comes to our nation's libraries. For example, in the past year, library usage has risen. Proving that there is still a need for libraries in growing communities. Corporations have also come to the aid of libraries in unique ways such as the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundations Geek The Library. The Direct Brands' Book-of-the-Month Club has formed a partnership with the Association of Library Trustees, Advocates, Friends, and Foundation (ALTAFF) to support libraries with an old idea but with a new twist. On their 85th Anniversary, Direct Brands' Book of the Month Club is promoting for the first time National Donate A Book Day beginning on Thursday, April 14th. Pardon the pun, but what a novel idea!
Many avid libraries users are aware of the policies of local libraries concerning donating personal books. This national day is for everyone else, who ever thought, "I have books that I haven't read in years, where can I donate them?" The answer to that is your local library. To participate all one has to do is go through their private library, find gently used books that are in good reading condition and bring them to the library. Its spring cleaning time anyways, right? This is the perfect way to clear out some books, and help the library at the same time.
Libraries would welcome books for readers of all ages, which includes books children have outgrown.
Libraries have always counted on the support of library users to keep the doors open. In these financially strapped times, the idea for this day is long overdue. It is a creative spark libraries need in trying new ways to fill the community's needs. Hats off to Direct Brands' and ALTAFF for promoting a positive and effective way to support America's libraries. If there is an award for BFF of American Libraries, it should go to them. However, they can not make this day a huge success alone. They will need library supporters to spread the word to friends and family. One way to accomplish that is to go www.facebook.com/BookOfTheMOnth wall next week and share this information with friends. A good book should not sit on a shelf and collect dust. It should be shared, don't you agree?
Many avid libraries users are aware of the policies of local libraries concerning donating personal books. This national day is for everyone else, who ever thought, "I have books that I haven't read in years, where can I donate them?" The answer to that is your local library. To participate all one has to do is go through their private library, find gently used books that are in good reading condition and bring them to the library. Its spring cleaning time anyways, right? This is the perfect way to clear out some books, and help the library at the same time.
Libraries would welcome books for readers of all ages, which includes books children have outgrown.
Libraries have always counted on the support of library users to keep the doors open. In these financially strapped times, the idea for this day is long overdue. It is a creative spark libraries need in trying new ways to fill the community's needs. Hats off to Direct Brands' and ALTAFF for promoting a positive and effective way to support America's libraries. If there is an award for BFF of American Libraries, it should go to them. However, they can not make this day a huge success alone. They will need library supporters to spread the word to friends and family. One way to accomplish that is to go www.facebook.com/BookOfTheMOnth wall next week and share this information with friends. A good book should not sit on a shelf and collect dust. It should be shared, don't you agree?
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