Last night my husband and I viewed Emilio Estevez's movie The Public. It was released in theatres on April 5th and has a limited run. I'm sure it is not a coincidence that the movie's release was just before National Library Week, which was celebrated April 7-13th. Another item that has not escaped my attention is Mr. Estavez's attraction towards movies about libraries. Fans of 1980's films will remember John Hugh's hit movie The Breakfast Club quite well and Estevez's role in that iconic movie. Seems he likes the idea of being detained in a library. Personally, who could blame him for wanting to be surrounded by books all the time? Not a bad way to be punished if you ask me. Then again, I connected so personally with this movie that at several points in this movie I understood exactly how Mr. Stuart Goodson felt. If you will allow a little departure from the normal routine of this blog, I'd like to shed a light on my career as a librarian and how this blog was started as
One of the key moments of this film is when Angela, Stuart Goodson's soon to be the love interest, poses the question, "What made you choose to be a librarian?" His response, "I ask that myself every day." That was my own #metoo moment. The exact moment when I realized that I've been asking myself this same question for over ten years. Don't get me wrong. I love my profession. However, full-time jobs in libraries are hard to come by due to budgets constraints. This situation has left myself and many of my peers to work part-time jobs and freelance on the side to pay the bills. Why do I stay? Why do I continue to advocate for the good that libraries do? Honestly, I can not think of any other profession I want to be a part of and work in. They say if you love what you do, you'll never have to work. So far, I haven't had one day where I wished I were somewhere else. The libraries I've worked in have given me a reason to wake up each morning and ask "What adventure awaits today?" So how can it be work if I'm going on an adventure?
It wasn't always like that. As a bright-eyed graduate fresh out of college with my Master of Science in Library Science in hand, I was not setting out to change the world but to simply be employed. There's nothing wrong with that. In fact, many people follow that same path. For some, it worked for them. For others, it didn't and they refocused their energies to another line of work. For me, I was fortunate to become a Library Director right out of the gate. It wasn't until mid-2006 that my library career took a financial dive. Still employed but working part-time with side gigs. Not the ideal situation, but I made it work. Through the years, working in a library taught me many things about society, management and serving the public. What I have come away from all of this is that working in a library is not for the faint of heart. It was not until this time when I began thinking about what legacy I would want to leave behind. What would my body of work in libraries say about my contributions?
A few years ago I realized where my contribution lied and hopefully long after I'm gone will be the legacy of which I may be remembered. This has become the heart of librarianship in my eyes. For every child, I read a book to, my career has far exceeded my expectations for fulfillment in my job. Those moments of pure joy, sharing a story have forever changed my view of the world. Why? Because, I got to see them through the eyes of a child and see the wonder, the awe and the good that children see. What I've also discovered is that children are naturally color blind. They don't judge on the fact of skin color but they do respond to someone who is paying attention to them. Helping them. Reading to them. Offering them a safe place to connect with others and be themselves.
For every patron who has had problems paying their electric bills because money is too tight, I am reminded that the library is for everyone, rich and poor alike. For those who are living beneath their means, the library is a life saver. The internet is free, the help is free and no one is judging them about why they can't pay their bills. I saw the relief in folks eyes as they were given an opportunity to keep the gas or the electricity on or two more weeks while they figured out how they would come up with the payments with the aid of a social worker. It's a relief that only people who struggle would understand.
For every pet rock painting craft program that has left the children's room a little messier and a bit louder, I am reminded that inspiration comes in all shapes and sizes. Mostly inspirations can come from a community coming together to create something wonderful. Sometimes making noise in the library is a good thing. Something as simple and fun as painting rocks. And a few laughs along the way never hurts!
For every patron that came into my library and was exhausted from basketball practice outside the library and wanted only a drink of water, I am reminded that everyone thirsts for different needs. Some for knowledge. Some for water. Others just want a quiet place to sit and listen to music or a favorite podcast. The library is for everyone.
For every patron that comes to the reference desk looking for information that will point them in the right direction for whatever reason, spiritual, medical or educational, I am reminded that although the answer may seem easy or trivial to one person, it could be the difference between hope and despair to someone else. In all honesty, I do believe that the library is the last Beacon of hope for a free society. What other institution in our society promotes, advocates and encourages people to read, to grow, and discover new things?
I can finally say I can see clearly how my choice of becoming a librarian has been a life changing for myself. I've learned much from every patron, and every situation I have encountered in the library. It is my intent that from what I have gained I give back ten folds to the patrons, whether they are young or old, rich or poor, white or black, in the communities I serve. For every obstacle that life throws into our way, it's always a sun-shiny day at the library.
Back to discussing the film The Public. Do I recommend it? Absolutely! Rotten Tomatoes gave it a 59% rotten. I say they got it all wrong. Incidentally, so do 97% of viewers who saw the movie and rated it on Rotten Tomatoes. Perhaps Rotten Tomatoes critics gave it such a low score because they are not like this librarian whose main ambition is to help readers discover their world one story at a time. This film's story needed to be told. Kudos Emilio! You have done well. A sincere thank you as well, Emilio. In two hours time, you've reminded me why it is that I became a librarian I'm sure my story is not unique. It wouldn't surprise me if a hundred more librarians were celebrating a sun-shiny day too!
Showing posts with label national library week. Show all posts
Showing posts with label national library week. Show all posts
Tuesday, April 16, 2019
Friday, April 15, 2011
The Library Is A Dangerous Place!
On a relatively quiet afternoon, as I sat at the reference desk reading the latest YALSA magazine, a small redheaded boy with a dash of freckles on his nose felt the urge to share his discovery with EVERYONE in the library. What was his announcement? "Wow! This Library is dangerous!" This young boy's view is definitely not mainstream. As a matter of fact, most people, would probably say that the library is a wonderful place to visit. Quiet. Safe. Sometimes, even cozy. But Dangerous? Nah! Not the library. What was this kid talking about? Upon further investigation it turns out that he had discovered a whole new world of rocket, volcanos, magnets and wrestling. Could a boy dream of anything better?
The thought comes to mind that perhaps this little boy is right. This library or any library for that matter is a dangerous place. Where else could boys who like to shot things into the air like a model rocket find the inspiration to make their craft fly? There are wonderful books that demonstrate all types of dangerous activities from creating electricity with magnet to forming hot black lava to ooze out of self made volcano. The possibilities are endless! This actually should be a marketing ploy to lure boys into the library on a Saturday afternoon. Send home letters to parents and children in a red envelope with the worD DANGER in block letters on the front. The letter inside would warn parents of the dire consequences of letting Johnny or Jenny go to the library. They might find out cool facts about fire, wrestling and darts. All very dangerous to young children. What would happen if you utter these words to your child, "No! You can't do that?" You get the picture.
Danger can come in all forms. Kids sometimes find the novels which challenge them to "think" dangerously. Titles like Atlas Shrugged, Brave New World and Animal Farm all deal with individuality and the price for not conforming with authority. A more recent trilogy that has become one of my favorites is The Hunger Games. Collins' book is riveting, compelling and dangerously thought provoking. This book has been used in the teen's book discussion. Teens' comments and insights about the role of government and citizens were candid and a little suprising. One teen jokingly said that dictators were cool, as long as he got to be the dictator!" Indeed, the idea of absolute power can be a very dangerous.
What can be more dangerous than the tricks that our minds play on us from time to time? Series like Michigan Chillers and American Chillers from Jonathan Rand explore the world of creepy scary things that make the skin crawl. No one really wants to believe that these creatures exist, but there is a small nagging feeling that just maybe there is something to these stories. After reading Rand's Chillers, thee are some kids who dare to poke around in the paranormal sections to investigate if things really go bump in the night. That is a very dangerous section indeed.
AS National Library Week comes to a close, it's a nice thought that libraries can be very dangerous places. A place where a kid can find out how to make their own big "bang", explore ideas that ignite debate or scare oneself silly that their own heart might dangerously stop. As a librarian, its satisfying to know that this is what living on the edge is all about! It is absolutely true, libraries are dangerous for kids of all ages. Go ahead and let them loose in the library. I dare you!
The thought comes to mind that perhaps this little boy is right. This library or any library for that matter is a dangerous place. Where else could boys who like to shot things into the air like a model rocket find the inspiration to make their craft fly? There are wonderful books that demonstrate all types of dangerous activities from creating electricity with magnet to forming hot black lava to ooze out of self made volcano. The possibilities are endless! This actually should be a marketing ploy to lure boys into the library on a Saturday afternoon. Send home letters to parents and children in a red envelope with the worD DANGER in block letters on the front. The letter inside would warn parents of the dire consequences of letting Johnny or Jenny go to the library. They might find out cool facts about fire, wrestling and darts. All very dangerous to young children. What would happen if you utter these words to your child, "No! You can't do that?" You get the picture.
Danger can come in all forms. Kids sometimes find the novels which challenge them to "think" dangerously. Titles like Atlas Shrugged, Brave New World and Animal Farm all deal with individuality and the price for not conforming with authority. A more recent trilogy that has become one of my favorites is The Hunger Games. Collins' book is riveting, compelling and dangerously thought provoking. This book has been used in the teen's book discussion. Teens' comments and insights about the role of government and citizens were candid and a little suprising. One teen jokingly said that dictators were cool, as long as he got to be the dictator!" Indeed, the idea of absolute power can be a very dangerous.
What can be more dangerous than the tricks that our minds play on us from time to time? Series like Michigan Chillers and American Chillers from Jonathan Rand explore the world of creepy scary things that make the skin crawl. No one really wants to believe that these creatures exist, but there is a small nagging feeling that just maybe there is something to these stories. After reading Rand's Chillers, thee are some kids who dare to poke around in the paranormal sections to investigate if things really go bump in the night. That is a very dangerous section indeed.
AS National Library Week comes to a close, it's a nice thought that libraries can be very dangerous places. A place where a kid can find out how to make their own big "bang", explore ideas that ignite debate or scare oneself silly that their own heart might dangerously stop. As a librarian, its satisfying to know that this is what living on the edge is all about! It is absolutely true, libraries are dangerous for kids of all ages. Go ahead and let them loose in the library. I dare you!
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.
Friday, April 8, 2011
Celebrating National Library Week 2011: Making Everyday Count!
April is the month of spring, silliness, and showers. Mixed in with the warmer weather, jokes and puddles is tax season, baseball begins and National Library Week. It's a nice mixture because libraries blends in well with every spring activity or holiday. Literally, there is a book, film, dvd, database and the list goes on just about every topic. The library is the best place to find the answer to any question on any topic. Which is precisely the reason why there is a week in April devoted to celebrating libraries and all they do for a community. National Library Week begins on April 10 and libraries across the country will be recognizing this week with special events. However, this should not stop a library enthusiast from finding their own creative ways to celebrate libraries this week. Here are some simple ways to celebrate for each day of the week.
April 10: Sundays are perfect for going to the library to find a book to read for pure enjoyment. Your local library is closed on Sunday? Contrary to popular belief that libraries are old and out of date, anyone with a library card can visit the library 24/7. To find that perfect book to read go to your library's website to download an ebook edition.
April 11: Monday is the day when everyone is back to business as usual. It is the perfect day to write to your local, state and federal representative informing them of your support and need for your local library. Don't know where to send your email or letter to? Call the library and ask the librarian for the information.
April 12: Tuesdays are typically the day where everyone eases into the tasks that need to be done for the rest of the week. The American Library Association dedicates this day to library workers. Most people assume that if a person works in a library that automatically suggests that the job title is "librarian". That is not the case. There are many people behind the scenes and at the front desk that help the library run smoothly on a day to day basis. They are the clerks, book shelvers and administrative assistants. Give a shout out of "thanks" on the library's Facebook page or their website's comment page to let them know you appreciate everything they do on a daily basis.
April 13: Wednesday is hump day and the weekend is just around the corner again. It is also National Bookmobile Day. Not every library is fortunate enough to provide this outreach service to their community. A bookmobile basically goes out into the community and brings the library to those who otherwise do not have the opportunity to visit the library. in the spirt of reaching out, spread the word about your favorite library service or programs to your family, neighbors, and coworkers. You could even suggest a "road' trip to the library to attend or use the wonderful services.
April 14: Thursday is one day closer to Saturday. The excitement of what the weekend has to offer is starting to affect everyone at home and work. Libraries are traditionally busy on Saturdays with programs for the entire family. Check out the library's calendar to see what programs the library has to offer. Today is also the day to Support Teen literature. Check out the latest Young Adult best sellers. It just may surprise you to see who is writing for Young Adults these days. (Would you have guessed James Patterson?)
April 15: Yeah it's Friday! However, it is also Tax Day. This year's taxes should be done, but if you need an extension form, they are available at the library, along with all the other forms for city, state and local taxes. Hopefully you were able to claim a deduction for a donation to the library. No? There's no time like the present to do something positive for next year's filing. Make a donation to the library, either in materials or monetary. It will make you feel good and the library would appreciate the gift.
April 16: Saturday is finally here and so is the end of a week long celebration in honor of libraries. what better way to cap off the week than by thanking the librarians for finding the answers, reading the stories, and encouraging life-long learning. (Yes, shameless plug for my profession. Can you blame me?) The best way to show your gratitude for librarians is to visit the library and visit it often. Cards are nice too, but it is much more rewarding when librarians' hear patrons, young or old, say, "I LOVE MY LIBRARY".
There are so many ways to support libraries. Hopefully, some of the suggestions will motivate you to visit the library. For me, I'll be celebrating in my unique way. I will need to find my "I Love My Library" and "Hug A Librarian" pins. They will be the wardrobe accessories of the week. It goes without saying that my Nancy Pearl Action Figure will be on display at my desk. To all my peers in libraries, have a wonderful week. To my favorite patrons, thank you for supporting the library which allows me to have the best job on earth.
April 10: Sundays are perfect for going to the library to find a book to read for pure enjoyment. Your local library is closed on Sunday? Contrary to popular belief that libraries are old and out of date, anyone with a library card can visit the library 24/7. To find that perfect book to read go to your library's website to download an ebook edition.
April 11: Monday is the day when everyone is back to business as usual. It is the perfect day to write to your local, state and federal representative informing them of your support and need for your local library. Don't know where to send your email or letter to? Call the library and ask the librarian for the information.
April 12: Tuesdays are typically the day where everyone eases into the tasks that need to be done for the rest of the week. The American Library Association dedicates this day to library workers. Most people assume that if a person works in a library that automatically suggests that the job title is "librarian". That is not the case. There are many people behind the scenes and at the front desk that help the library run smoothly on a day to day basis. They are the clerks, book shelvers and administrative assistants. Give a shout out of "thanks" on the library's Facebook page or their website's comment page to let them know you appreciate everything they do on a daily basis.
April 13: Wednesday is hump day and the weekend is just around the corner again. It is also National Bookmobile Day. Not every library is fortunate enough to provide this outreach service to their community. A bookmobile basically goes out into the community and brings the library to those who otherwise do not have the opportunity to visit the library. in the spirt of reaching out, spread the word about your favorite library service or programs to your family, neighbors, and coworkers. You could even suggest a "road' trip to the library to attend or use the wonderful services.
April 14: Thursday is one day closer to Saturday. The excitement of what the weekend has to offer is starting to affect everyone at home and work. Libraries are traditionally busy on Saturdays with programs for the entire family. Check out the library's calendar to see what programs the library has to offer. Today is also the day to Support Teen literature. Check out the latest Young Adult best sellers. It just may surprise you to see who is writing for Young Adults these days. (Would you have guessed James Patterson?)
April 15: Yeah it's Friday! However, it is also Tax Day. This year's taxes should be done, but if you need an extension form, they are available at the library, along with all the other forms for city, state and local taxes. Hopefully you were able to claim a deduction for a donation to the library. No? There's no time like the present to do something positive for next year's filing. Make a donation to the library, either in materials or monetary. It will make you feel good and the library would appreciate the gift.
April 16: Saturday is finally here and so is the end of a week long celebration in honor of libraries. what better way to cap off the week than by thanking the librarians for finding the answers, reading the stories, and encouraging life-long learning. (Yes, shameless plug for my profession. Can you blame me?) The best way to show your gratitude for librarians is to visit the library and visit it often. Cards are nice too, but it is much more rewarding when librarians' hear patrons, young or old, say, "I LOVE MY LIBRARY".
There are so many ways to support libraries. Hopefully, some of the suggestions will motivate you to visit the library. For me, I'll be celebrating in my unique way. I will need to find my "I Love My Library" and "Hug A Librarian" pins. They will be the wardrobe accessories of the week. It goes without saying that my Nancy Pearl Action Figure will be on display at my desk. To all my peers in libraries, have a wonderful week. To my favorite patrons, thank you for supporting the library which allows me to have the best job on earth.
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?
Friday, April 16, 2010
National Library Week Wrap Up
As National Library Week comes to a close, there is a sense that the opportunity to spread the "wealth" that awaits in every library should be shared every day, of every week and of every year. Each library around my area have celebrated this week in different and creative ways. From each of them I have been inspired about the prospects of what I can do for my patrons in the coming months. The other night, the library where I worked had a program and the library was packed. The topic was about Hamtramck, Detroit's own little Poletown, and how it has changed over the years. Watching the patrons, young and old alike, come in for the program, a flash of "aha" moment came into my head. This is why libraries are so important, the keys to the past, present and futures lies within for anyone to capture for themselves. It may sound corny or nostalgic but it's a true and worthwhile to repeat.
Libraries have a long and colorful history. They are in my humble opinion, the first Do-It-Yourself centers of learning. Where else can a person gain a free education and learn at their own pace? Libraries main purpose in every community has not changed. They are the source to go to when one is in need of information, books, or CDs. That's not to say that there hasn't been changes. Boy, have things changed in the past twenty-five years since my first job in a library. As an example, some of the things I miss like the card catalogs, (which I love so much that I have one at home) the paper indexes, and finally the ever faithful microfilm machine have been replaced by computers. It is absolutely amazing to me that technology has changed so quickly that it three tools that libraries once depended on have now been replaced by one machine: the computer. Life moves forward, and libraries thankfully have moved along with the times.
Since I am allowing myself to be nostalgic and sentimental, it seems appropriate to thank all the librarians that have gone before me, and paved the way for librarians like myself. If it were not for their vision, dedication and hard work, libraries would not be functional today. They truly were trailblazers in so many ways. I can only hope that the work that I do today will inspire the next crop of professional librarians to take up the torch and the light the way for the patrons who are in search of the keys to the past, present and future.
Libraries have a long and colorful history. They are in my humble opinion, the first Do-It-Yourself centers of learning. Where else can a person gain a free education and learn at their own pace? Libraries main purpose in every community has not changed. They are the source to go to when one is in need of information, books, or CDs. That's not to say that there hasn't been changes. Boy, have things changed in the past twenty-five years since my first job in a library. As an example, some of the things I miss like the card catalogs, (which I love so much that I have one at home) the paper indexes, and finally the ever faithful microfilm machine have been replaced by computers. It is absolutely amazing to me that technology has changed so quickly that it three tools that libraries once depended on have now been replaced by one machine: the computer. Life moves forward, and libraries thankfully have moved along with the times.
Since I am allowing myself to be nostalgic and sentimental, it seems appropriate to thank all the librarians that have gone before me, and paved the way for librarians like myself. If it were not for their vision, dedication and hard work, libraries would not be functional today. They truly were trailblazers in so many ways. I can only hope that the work that I do today will inspire the next crop of professional librarians to take up the torch and the light the way for the patrons who are in search of the keys to the past, present and future.
Monday, April 12, 2010
National Library Week 2010
Here we are again, National Library Week 2010 and where has the time gone? For over 50 yeas, the American Library Association has dedicated the second full week of April as National Library Week, an opportunity to celebrate the great and unique libraries across the United States. Big whoop you say? Well, indeed it is a big whoop. Especially in the economic times that everyone is facing, libraries should not only be celebrated but supported. This year's theme is "Communities Thrive @ Your Library" and what a wonderful reminder of the role that libraries play in every community across the nation.
This could be an opportunity to begin extolling the virtues of libraries and librarians. However, for just a moment, celebrating seems to be more the order of the day. After all, there is another 6 days yet of connecting this week's celebration and the need to gain stronger support for libraries. What better way to get excited about libraries than to share books that readers of all ages can appreciate about the library. There is no shortage of books on this topic however, having said that, there are some titles that just outshines them all.
The Library by Sarah Stewart, this book is by far the best book about libraries and avid readers who can not put down a book. If Elizabeth Brown, the heroine and avid reader, does not make herself endearing when reading the whimsical rhymes, then it just may be possible, that one does not have a heart. Who could not giggle, at the silliness of cleaning the house while reading a book or reading upside down? The love of books and libraries are infused into every page and illustration that it reminds the reader of how wonderful it is to read out of pure joy.
Sometimes Rules are meant to be broken. That is the theme of the children's book Library Lion by Michelle Knudsen. Mr. McBee is not happy when a enormous lion comes to stay at the library. Miss Merriweather, the librarian who is the keeper of the rules and keys to the library, states that as long as lion obeys the rules, he may stay. Lion makes himself at home during storytime, (how I would love for that to happen at one of my storytimes!) and providing other servies around the library for patrons and librarians alike. However, the Library Lion breaks the rule when he roars at Mr. McBee to alert him to the fact that Miss Merriweather has had a terrible fall off of a stool. Lion lays low for awhile, staying clear of the library, until Mr. McBee finds him and tells him that sometimes library rules should be broken. Happy ending for all. Lion returns and all is well in the library again! (Can I please have a lion at storytime?)
Bridgett's loves her animals so much, she brings them to the library. What could go wrong in Eric A. Kimme'ls tale I Took My Frog To The Library? So the frog frightens the librarian, the hen lays an egg in the card catalog, and the hyena laughs at the all the wrong places during story time. Big deal! That's not so bad, but when elephant wrecks the library because she is just TOO big, well that was the proverbial straw that breaks the librarian's back. All animals have got to go home, but that's okay. Bridgett's elephants entertains the troop with her own story time. This is an older book, but it is a classic with it's warm pictures and humorous tales. Animal, book and library lovers will love the tale, even if the card catalog is an old fashioned one!
Each of these books are perfect for storytime for preschool up to second grade. Perhaps, a little nostalgic too but is there anything wrong with getting a little attached to a library? For many children at the library where I work, it is a second home to them. Come to think of it, it's like my second home too! The list of books is far from being done. There's more to come next time. In the meantime, celebrate National Library Week by taking someone you love to visit the library. Sit a spell, read a little and check out a book. You'll be glad you did.
This could be an opportunity to begin extolling the virtues of libraries and librarians. However, for just a moment, celebrating seems to be more the order of the day. After all, there is another 6 days yet of connecting this week's celebration and the need to gain stronger support for libraries. What better way to get excited about libraries than to share books that readers of all ages can appreciate about the library. There is no shortage of books on this topic however, having said that, there are some titles that just outshines them all.
The Library by Sarah Stewart, this book is by far the best book about libraries and avid readers who can not put down a book. If Elizabeth Brown, the heroine and avid reader, does not make herself endearing when reading the whimsical rhymes, then it just may be possible, that one does not have a heart. Who could not giggle, at the silliness of cleaning the house while reading a book or reading upside down? The love of books and libraries are infused into every page and illustration that it reminds the reader of how wonderful it is to read out of pure joy.
Sometimes Rules are meant to be broken. That is the theme of the children's book Library Lion by Michelle Knudsen. Mr. McBee is not happy when a enormous lion comes to stay at the library. Miss Merriweather, the librarian who is the keeper of the rules and keys to the library, states that as long as lion obeys the rules, he may stay. Lion makes himself at home during storytime, (how I would love for that to happen at one of my storytimes!) and providing other servies around the library for patrons and librarians alike. However, the Library Lion breaks the rule when he roars at Mr. McBee to alert him to the fact that Miss Merriweather has had a terrible fall off of a stool. Lion lays low for awhile, staying clear of the library, until Mr. McBee finds him and tells him that sometimes library rules should be broken. Happy ending for all. Lion returns and all is well in the library again! (Can I please have a lion at storytime?)
Bridgett's loves her animals so much, she brings them to the library. What could go wrong in Eric A. Kimme'ls tale I Took My Frog To The Library? So the frog frightens the librarian, the hen lays an egg in the card catalog, and the hyena laughs at the all the wrong places during story time. Big deal! That's not so bad, but when elephant wrecks the library because she is just TOO big, well that was the proverbial straw that breaks the librarian's back. All animals have got to go home, but that's okay. Bridgett's elephants entertains the troop with her own story time. This is an older book, but it is a classic with it's warm pictures and humorous tales. Animal, book and library lovers will love the tale, even if the card catalog is an old fashioned one!
Each of these books are perfect for storytime for preschool up to second grade. Perhaps, a little nostalgic too but is there anything wrong with getting a little attached to a library? For many children at the library where I work, it is a second home to them. Come to think of it, it's like my second home too! The list of books is far from being done. There's more to come next time. In the meantime, celebrate National Library Week by taking someone you love to visit the library. Sit a spell, read a little and check out a book. You'll be glad you did.
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