Wi Fi Library List

Karen Burns, Administrator from Southwest Iowa Library Service Area, has taken-on the Herculean task of creating a list of libraries in Iowa that currently offer Wi Fi services. Whew! At the moment there are 111 libraries listed (not counting branches.) It is definitely a work in progress, so if you don't see your library's name on the list, please feel free to contact Karen at kburns@swilsa.lib.ia.us. She'll be happy to include you. Please access the current list is at: http://www.ilsa.lib.ia.us/libhotspots.htm.

PROFESSIONAL BOOK OF THE WEEK

Title: The Small Public Library Survival Guide: Thriving on Less
Author: Herbert B. Landau

Summary:
Landau covers a wide range of topics from defining your role in the community and converting your community’s needs into a strategic plan through to writing, and winning, grants, library programming on a tight budget and more. In a time where every penny spent is precious, this will be useful to libraries of all sizes and types.

Marshalltown’s New Library Hailed as Iowa’s First Public Library to Seek LEED Silver Certification

From Library Journal online: The first public library in Iowa to seek LEED “silver” certification from the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) is nearing completion in Marshalltown, a county seat of 26,000 people about 50 miles northeast of Des Moines. The current Marshalltown Public Library, a five-level Carnegie building, was built in 1902 and expanded in 1974. It has for years been overcrowded; the new 35,670 square foot building, on one level, will double the space.
http://www.libraryjournal.com/article/CA6608914.html

"National Gaming Day @ Your Library" is November 15, 2008

On Saturday, November 15, 2008, hundreds of libraries throughout the country will showcase gaming programs and services in support of National Gaming Day @ Your Library (NGD). For information on the event and to register your own plans, go to http://gaming.ala.org/resources/index.php?title=Ngd2008.

Online book review source from Entertainment Weekly

If you’re looking for those titles that will fly off the shelves, visit EW’s book reviews online at http://www.ew.com/ew/books/reviews/0,,,00.html

FOLUSA Fun!

Establishing a Library Foundation
Free from FOLUSA (Friends of Libraries USA)! Visit http://www.folusa.org/sharing/organizational-tools.php to download the file.

Stay up to Date on Library Events
FOLUSA offers a up-to-date calendar on library and literacy related events at http://www.folusa.org/sharing/library-celebrations.php.

PROFESSIONAL BOOK OF THE WEEK

Title: More Family Storytimes
Author: Rob Reid

Summary:
A follow-up to his popular 1999 book “Family Storytimes”, Reid presents the original 24 themes updated with books and songs published between 1998 and 2008. This is a rich resource for anyone doing family storytime programming or considering it.

YALSA Seeks Contributors for New Teen Programming Book

The Young Adult Library Services Association (YALSA), a division of the American Library Association (ALA), today issued a call for contributors to its new book, “Cool Teen Programs on a Shoestring,” edited by Jenine Lillian and expected to be published in 2009 by Neal-Schuman. Librarians who have hosted inexpensive (under $100) programming or special events at their public or school libraries are invited to submit their programs for possible inclusion in the book. Interested contributors should download the form at http://tinyurl.com/yalsashoestring. and send it to coolteenprograms@gmail.com by Nov. 20. Contributors must be YALSA members at the time of publication. Chosen contributors will be notified of acceptance by Jan. 16, 2009.

Tech Tips for the Basic Computer User

10 tips from the New York Times we tend to assume everyone knows…but it turns out that’s a bad assumption! http://pogue.blogs.nytimes.com/2008/10/02/tech-tips-for-the-basic-computer-user/

Deadline Extended for National Library Week Grant

The deadline for the Scholastic Library Publishing National Library Week grant has been extended to Friday, November 14, 2008. U.S. libraries of all types are invited to apply for a $3,000 grant that will be awarded to the best public awareness campaign that promotes the theme “Worlds connect @ your library” during National Library Week (April 12-18, 2009). Application forms and guidelines are available on The Campaign for America’s Libraries Web site www.ala.org/@yourlibrary/nlwgrant.

"Born storyteller" Tony Hillerman dies at 83

Tony Hillerman, author of the acclaimed Navajo Tribal Police mystery novels and creator of two of the unlikeliest of literary heroes -- Navajo police officers Joe Leaphorn and Jim Chee -- died Sunday of pulmonary failure. He was 83. For more details and a brief biography of Hillerman, visit http://www.cnn.com/2008/SHOWBIZ/books/10/27/tony.hillerman.obit.ap/index.html.

From St. Ambrose University:

We are pleased to announce that the SAU library is a recipient of the FRONTLINE/World Social Entrepreneurs Series grant to support a film screening and discussion on social entrepreneurship. We have two great programs coming soon. Please note the following dates on your calendar:

The WiderNet Project of the University of Iowa: Improving Digital Communication for People in Developing Countries
Wednesday, October 29, 7:30 pm in the Main Ballroom, Rogalski Student Center, St. Ambrose University

· The WiderNet Project is a service program at the University of Iowa that works to improve digital communication in developing countries. Mr. Missen and his staff currently focus on the improvement of educational communication systems in Africa by providing faculty and students with access to computers, email, and the Internet. Mr. Missen will talk about what the WiderNet project has and will accomplish as well as a new social entrepreneurial program for young people in Africa. Audience members will be encouraged to ask questions and those interested may sign up as volunteers for or donate to the WiderNet project.
Free and open to the public.

Frontline/World Social Entrepreneurs Series Programming: Film Screening and Discussion
Thursday, November 6,7:00 pm, Chapel Gathering Space, Christ the King Chapel, St. Ambrose University
· The St. Ambrose University library will host a screening of the one hour FRONTLINE/World Social Entrepreneurs Series compilation film and follow the screening with a facilitated discussion by Professor Katy Strzepek. Professor Strzepek is co-director of Ambrose Women for Social Justice (AWSJ) and teaches women’s studies at SAU.
Free and open to the public.

Please join us. Light refreshments will be served. Thanks!

For more information on these programs, visit the BeeBrary Blog. (http://saulibrary.wordpress.com/) or contact Leslie Ross @ RossLeslieM@sau.edu

Professional Book Of The Week

Title: Survival of Rural America: Small Victories and Bitter Harvests
Author: Richard E. Wood

Summary:
Author Wood explores what it means to live in rural America, notably Kansas, today. Expecting to see the decline of a once-vibrant life, he instead finds that many towns are still thriving, but in ways very different than they had in the past. A look at the evolution needed for the continuance of this lifestyle, Wood paints evocative pictures of the towns and people he meets in his travels.

POLITICAL SCIENCE MADE FUN

This site displays aggregate voting data from 1840 to 2008. We find the interactive maps to be especially fun!

Voting America - http://americanpast.richmond.edu/voting/cinematicmaps.html

Are You The Best Small Library?

If your library has what it takes, apply for Library Journal’s "Best Small Library Award!" The application for 2009 is due November 3, 2008. The prize includes $15,000 and membership and conference costs for two library representatives to attend the Public Library Association 2010 Conference in Portland, OR. See the attached website for details and good luck!

http://www.libraryjournal.com/article/bestsmall

JOB OPENING AT MOUNT PLEASANT CORRECTIONAL

Terry Moore has accepted a position as a treatment counselor with the sex offender program and will be leaving her position as a Librarian 1 at the Men's Correctional Facility in Mt. Pleasant, IA. The job opening has been posted and will close October 16, so those who may be interested need to apply soon. Interested parties can apply through the state job website http://das.hre.iowa.gov. An alternative way to apply is through any Workforce Development Office. Staff there can guide one through the steps. It is a full-time job with hours similar to many public library staff hours. The website offers more definitive information.

Our best wishes go out to Terry in her new venture. Congratulations!

PROFESSIONAL BOOK OF THE WEEK

Title: Cataloging With AACR2 & MARC 21: For Books, Electronic Resources, Sound Recordings, Videorecordings, and Serials
Author: Deborah A. Fritz

Summary:
For anyone who is doing original cataloging on a regular basis or has a back up of odd items you want to add to your collection and can’t find any pre-done records, this is the reference resource for you. Examples of the cataloging rules and MARC fields are shown.

PROFESSIONAL BOOK OF THE WEEK

Title: Storytime for Two-Year-Olds, Third Edition
Author: Judy Nichols

Summary
The newest edition of this classic best-seller updates techniques and programs to engage some of our harshest critics: two-year-olds. Included in the book are plans for program themes including books, fingerplays, crafts, parent-oriented notes, and program notes. If you are looking to start or revitalize a toddler targeted storytime, this is the perfect book to get you going.

BOOK SALE AT SIGOURNEY!

Sigourney Public Library is having their "Friends of the Library Book Sale" On Friday, September 19th, from 11am-6pm, and Saturday, September 20th, from 10am-1pm. The sale will be held in the large meeting room in the Library located at 720 E. Jackson, in Sigourney, IA. Lots and lots of items from various media will be offered. Since it's held inside, the sale will go on rain or shine. For more information, you may contact the Library at (641) 622-2890.

PRINTER FOR SALE AT WHAT CHEER

The What Cheer Public Library has an HP 4200n Laserjet printer that came with the original Gates grants, that they have replaced with a color laser with the new Gates funds. It works just fine, has never had extremely high use, and has toner. They are asking $25 and you pick it up if you are interested. Please contact:

William Miller, Director
641-634-2859
wc.library@mchsi.com

Common launches The Corner

The Common Ground Foundation, created by hip-hop artist, actor, and children’s author Lonnie Rashid Lynn (known as “Common”) dedicates itself to the empowerment and development of urban youth in the United States. Now the Common Ground Foundation has launched The Corner, a national online book club. This interactive platform provides youth, ages 13–18… (from American Libraries Direct 8/27/08)

10 reasons not to write off reading from a screen

Michael Bhaskar writes: “Over the past few months there has been much discussion of an impending digital revolution in the way we read books. While much of this is hyperbole, there has been incredulity in many quarters that anyone would ever want to read from a screen. We are all attached to books, and the idea seems at first glance anachronistic. However there are some good reasons why it might not go away as quickly as you’d think. Here’s why.”...( from American Libraries Direct 8/27/08)

10 ways to cope with information overload from American Libraries Direct, 8/27/08

PROFESSIONAL BOOK OF THE WEEK

Title: The New OPL Sourcebook: A Guide for Solo and Small Libraries
Author: Judith A. Siess

Summary:
Siess grew to fame with the One Person Library Newsletter when she took it over in 1998. In 2001, she compiled the first edition of The OPL Sourcebook and it instantly became a must have book for professional collections. This expanded and revised edition is broken into two main sections: “The Basics” and “Resources”. “The Basics” includes discussions on what constitutes an OPL, general management concepts, time management, financial management, communication and marketing, technology, the future of the one person library, and a host of other topics. The resources section is broken into topic areas such as business, medical, government, technology, humanities, law and copyright, “libraryland”, and the sciences. This book is specifically written for libraries of a certain size without regard to general focus area (public, academic, special).

SLS CLASS SCHEDULE CHANGE

This is just to let you know due to a change in schedule of another program, we have had to move the date of the December 16th Free Databases for Libraries class. It will now be held on Thursday, December 18th at 10 am. Please contact Katie Dunneback at kdunneback@sls.lib.ia.us if you have any questions.

Top 10 electronic calendar tricks

Kevin Purdy writes: “Your online or desktop calendar can do a lot more than just hold dates and tell you about them. Free programs and tweaks can integrate appointments into your email app, embed a whole-month view into your wallpaper, schedule birthdays without a single phone call, and improve your faulty memory for everything. Take a look at 10 free and customizable hacks you can apply to your own appointment-keeping system.”...( from American Libraries Direct 8/27/08)

Take that, stupid printer!

Farhad Manjoo writes: “Because the industry operates on a classic razor-and-blades business model—printers themselves aren’t pricy, but ink and toner refills cost an exorbitant amount—printer manufacturers have a huge incentive to get you to replace your cartridges quickly. Many brands are outfitted with sensors or software that try to predict when they’ll run out of ink. Often, though, the printer’s guess is off. However, instructions for fooling different laser printers into thinking you’ve installed a new cartridge are easy to come by.” For other printer problems, try fixyourownprinter.com....(article from Slate online, link from American Libraries Direct 8/27/08)

AskKids.com Relaunches With Drawing Feature

Nathania Johnson writes: “Finding online learning resources that are safe, well-designed, and fun for my kids is important—but inexplicably difficult. That’s why I was thrilled to learn about Ask.com’s expansion and redesign of AskKids.com. And at the bottom right corner of the front page, there’s a box with a pen, pencil, and highlighter. You can grab one of the utensils with your mouse and draw directly on the page! It rocks. There’s also a tab for ‘stickers’ that you can put on your drawing.”... (from American Libraries Direct 8/27/08)

Lawrence Library Director Keeps Promise to Eat Bugs

Several months ago, the Lawrence (Kans.) Public Library director threw out a challenge. Bruce Flanders had vowed to eat insects if children participating in the 2008 summer reading program—“Catch the Reading Bug”—read lots of books beyond those required in the program…(from American Libraries Direct 8/27/08)

Don't Have a Cow, Man - Nancy Cartwright Offers PSAs for Teen Read Week

Nancy Cartwright, the voice of Bart Simpson, has recorded three public service announcements for Teen Read Week 2008. You can download the PSAs and use them to raise awareness about Teen Read Week. They can be played over school announcements or provided to a local radio station to use. Each PSA is 30 seconds long. Teen Read Week will be celebrated October 12–18....(from ALA’s web site)

"LHTLO" CLASSES ADDED

In preparation for the fabulous online Iowa Small Libraries conference coming in January, we’ve added more sessions of the ever popular Learn How to Learn Online class. A microphone headset is required. Feel free to take a refresher session, though CE credit is only good for the first time you take the class. If you have any questions, please contact Katie Dunneback at kdunneback@sls.lib.ia.us , and sign up is available through the State Library’s CE catalog: http://www.statelibraryofiowa.org/cgi-bin/cecat/.

Tuesday, November 25th 11 am to 12 pm
Wednesday, December 17th 2 pm to 3 pm
Tuesday, December 30th 11 am to 12 pm
Tuesday, January 6th 2 pm to 3 pm
Thursday, January 15th 11 am to 12 pm

Join us for "ANNUAL REPORT WORKDAY"!

If you’re interested in a relaxed atmosphere as you work on your report, consider joining us for an Annual Report Workday. SLS will provide some treats, our regional partners will provide a computer lab, and you just need to bring your statistics. We’ll be on hand to help answer questions and navigate through the reports.

Kalona, September 29
IHCC in Ottumwa, September 30
Both days from 9 until Noon

Register through the CE catalog.

Professional Book of the Week

Title: The Thriving Library: Successful Strategies for Challenging Times
Author: Marylaine Block

Summary:
Block, author of the website Neat New Stuff I Found on the Net, explores strategies and programs which help libraries thrive in trying economic times. Chapters are broken into service areas and tasks such as children, teens, marketing, outreach and community involvement. Case studies are used to highlight points about each topic. A useful guide for any library serving the public today.

REMINDER: "MySpace and More Class" repeated

As a reminder, the online MySpace and More class is being repeated this month on the 17th from 10 am to 12 pm and the 25th from 1 pm to 3 pm. The class will delve into the meaning behind “Library 2.0” and various services being explored for use in libraries. The class is worth 2 CE credits with the option of 1 CE credit available as extra credit for after-class work. Sign up today at the State CE Catalog: http://www.statelibraryofiowa.org/cgi-bin/cecat/. Please contact Katie Dunneback, Consultant, at kdunneback@sls.lib.ia.us if you have any questions.

REGISTRATION INFORMATION: ANNUAL REPORT WORKDAYS

Registration for the Annual Report Workdays is now available on the CE catalog at http://www.statelibraryofiowa.org/cgi-bin/cecat/. If you are interested in attending at Kalona, sign up ASAP as there are a very limited number of spaces available at that location. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Katie Dunneback, Consultant, at 800-397-0029 or kdunneback@sls.lib.ia.us. Sessions are:

Monday, September 29th
Kalona Public Library
9 am to 12 pm

Tuesday, September 30th
Great Prairie AEA – Ottumwa
9 am to 12 pm

SHE'S FAMOUS!


The August issue of American Libraries has an article on the summer flooding, including a quote by Keck (Wapello) director Llewann Bryant! http://www.ala.org/ala/alonline/currentnews/newsarchive/2008/june2008/midwestfloodjun25update.cfm for the full article.

PROFESSIONAL BOOK OF THE WEEK

Title: 101+ Greaat Ideas for Teen Library Web Sites
Author: Miranda Doyle

Summary:
There is much discussion about how today’s teenagers and kids spend much of their life on the web and how it’s vital for us a libraries to be where they are. If there is one thing you can do to be there, it is to create a section of your website that is dedicated to teens. Doyle’s book offers up a number of best practices and suggestions on what to include in such a section and is perfect skimming material for anyone looking to create a new section, or revamp one they’ve already created.

Friends Idea - Farmer’s Market Booth!

The Friends of the Oregion City (OR) Public Library have a booth at the local Farmer’s Market where they both sell books and promote library issues and services (including an upcoming levy on the ballot). Seen in the FOLUSA newsletter, July 2008.

Can’t Buy This Kind of Publicity (unless you have $290,000)

On August 10th, Bill Whitaker reported on the CBS Evening News about public library usage in a slow economy, Good Times At The Library. The segment had more than 6.4 million viewers and an estimated publicity value of more than $290,0000. You can watch it at http://www.cbsnews.com/sections/i_video/main500251.shtml?id=4335685n?source=search_video. "In the face of rising gas and food prices, many financially strapped American families are turning to the library this summer for a fun and free alternative to heavy spending."

BOOK ON RURAL AMERICA PUBLISHED

Survival of Rural America: Small Victories and Bitter Harvests has been published by the University Press of Kansas. A must read for anyone living and working in rural and small town communities, the author uses rural Kansas as an example for how rural/small communities can become valued again as desirable places to live. The author quotes University of Missouri professor emeritus of rural sociology Daryl Hobbs who (echoing Ronald Reagan's infamous observation that, "seen one redwood, seen them all") said: "When you've seen one rural community, you have seen one rural community." SLS will order a copy of the book for the professional collection.

HomeTown Competitiveness A Come-Back/Give-Back Approach to Rural Community Building.

HomeTown Competitiveness provides a framework for rural communities to help them identify reachable goals and strategies focused on the four pillars of reversing rural decline. http://www.htccommunity.org/

On the web page at http://www.nebcommfound.org/HTC.htm, click on the video projector to watch the W. K. Kellogg Foundation 2005 Annual Report video about this project.

Rural Library Project Helps Raise Buildings

Date: Jun 1, 2008 Author: By Lynn Blumenstein

Rural Library Project Opens in GA - The small town of Whitesburg, GA, now has a public library, thanks in part to the Rural Library Project (RLP), which provided advice and an affordable, sustainable building plan... http://www.libraryjournal.com/article/CA6561388.html

SLS Offers Stipend

The SLS Board of Trustees is pleased to announce that applications for a $400 stipend to attend the ILA Annual Conference are now being accepted through September 3. The Conference will be held in Dubuque October 15-17. Information on the Conference, including lodging, is available at http://www.iowalibraryassociation.org/displayconvention.cfm. The stipend may be used to offset any eligible Conference expense, even if the expense has already been incurred, including registration, Conference meals, hotel and mileage. The recipient will be responsible for having a great time, bringing home great ideas for their library, and completing a budget report with receipts by November 18, 2008.

The stipend is available to any staff member, Trustee or Friend. The award will be announced on Friday, September 12.

To apply, visit http://tinyurl.com/08ConferenceStipend.

DEMCO SPONSORS FUN CONTEST

Has your booktruck seen better days? Are you jealous of your coworker's shiny and dent-free companion? Then send Demco a photo and a brief description of why your booktruck needs to be replaced and why a new one would make you the envy of all librarians! Entries due September 15, three prizes to be awarded!

Visit http://www.demco.com/CGI-BIN/LANSAWEB?PROCFUN+LWDCWEB01+LWDC065+PRD+ENG+FUNCPARMS+ZZWGOTOPG(A0800):contests&POP0808 for details.

JOB OPENING IN DES MOINES

Library, IOWA DEPARTMENT FOR THE BLIND Job Posting August 25, 2008STATE OF IOWADEPARTMENT FOR THE BLINDSenior Services Specialist for the Blind 3

The Iowa Department for the Blind is recruiting applicants for thefollowing Merit-Exempt position:Supervisor Iowa Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped

Supervises half of Library operations. Oversees work of 10-15 permanentand temporary employees. Oversees circulation unit, including patronservices, circulation processes, shelving, collection development andmaintenance, machine lending and maintenance activities, and theautomated circulation system for National Library for the Blind andPhysically Handicapped Regional Library. Coordinates unit activitieswith other library and agency activities.

Bachelor's degree required; Masters in Library and Information Scienceor related field preferred. Three years of supervisory experience orproject management preferred.

SALARY RANGE - Plan 000 - Grade 32: $50,377.60 - $77,896.00 annually.

HOURS: 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Travel required.

LOCATION: Iowa Department for the Blind 524 Fourth Street Des Moines, Iowa 50309-2364

For further information, contact Karen A. Keninger, ProgramAdministrator at (515) 281-1367 or karen.keninger@blind.state.ia.us. Toapply, please send a letter of application and resume to:Allen Harris, Director Iowa Department for the Blind524 Fourth StreetDes Moines, IA 50309Allen.harris@blind.state.ia.us Electronic submissions will be accepted. Applications must be receivedby 5:00 p.m. On Friday, September 12, 2008.

EEO/AA EMPLOYER

FUN SCIENCE RESOURCE

Videos on elements arranged according to the Periodic Table. The videos were made by the staff and faculty at the University of Nottingham:

http://periodicvideos.com/

SEPTEMBER STAND-OUTS

September is fast approaching, which means it’s time for Library Card Sign Up Month and Banned Books Week.

ALA provides toolkits with many free print outs and great ideas for ways to promote your library and your collection.

The Library Card Sign Up Month article with links to the toolkit and other information can be found at http://www.ala.org/ala/pressreleases2008/august2008/CampaignLCSUM.cfm.

The Banned Books Week information can be found at http://www.ala.org/ala/oif/bannedbooksweek/bannedbooksweek.cfm.

If your library is, or has done, some great displays, events, promotions, etc., for either of these topics, share it with us on this list!

JOB OPENING IN KALONA

The Kalona Public Library, located just 20 miles south of Iowa City, is seeking a responsible, well-organized and creative person for the position of Youth Services Librarian. Working full time in a newer facility, job responsibilities include planning and supervising programs, assisting in collection development and web site design, and performing library related duties. The successful candidate will have a high school diploma, experience working in a library, experience working with children, and have extensive computer skills. A college degree and knowledge of children's literature preferred. Benefits included. Contact: Anne Skaden, Director, Kalona Public Library, PO Box 1212, Kalona, IA 52247-1212 Call (319) 656-3501 or e-mail kaloplib@kctc.net for more information. Deadline: September 3.

TIDBIT

"Work that library card. And keeping it working. Early on, we recognized how many young adults were not accessing library services after their borrowing privileges had been suspended because of fees owed. Queens Library began the Read Down Your Fees program...for those sixteen and under. For every hour they read in the library, $2 is deducted from their account balance. We don't care what they read -- graphic novels, school assignments, Web pages -- but they have to read."

In addition, the library trained the staff to recognize that everybody serves youth, created a friendly environment and engaged young adults with programming.

>From "Flipping It: How Queens Library Is Turning "Gangs" of Teens into
Its Biggest Success Story," Voya: Voice of Youth Advocates (June 2008).

SLS Offers September CE Line-up

Getting back into the groove of things once Summer Reading Programs have ended and school is back in session can be a bit daunting, can’t it? We’ve got a light schedule this month, but they’ll definitely get you ready to go for our jam-packed months of October and November.

LEARN HOW TO LEARN ONLINE
CE Units: 1

If you’re thinking of taking advantage of any of our upcoming online courses, and you have not taken an online class in the past, sign up for this great introductory session to get your feet wet.

Tuesday, September 9th
2 pm to 3 pm
SLS Wimba room

MYSPACE AND MORE
CE Units: 2

This class gives an overview of the social networking phenomenon and Web 2.0 tools. Learn about the appeal behind such services as MySpace, Facebook, Twitter, Flickr and other services.

Wednesday, September 17th
10 am to 12 pm
SLS Wimba room

Thursday, September 25th
1 pm to 3 pm
SLS Wimba room

STATE LIBRARY TOWN MEETING: THE ENGAGED LIBRARY: GETTING TO KNOW YOUR COMMUNITY
CE Units: 4

Annual town meeting sponsored by the State Library of Iowa. Hosted this year by the East Central Library Service Area (ECLSA).

Tuesday, September 23rd
9:30 am to 3 pm
Iowa City Public Library
$15/person registration fee – payable to ECLSA

ANNUAL REPORT WORKDAY
CE Units: 0

Take some time out of your busy schedules to get your annual report done, or at least get a head start on it! SLS staff members will be on hand to help you work through the online submission form.

Monday, September 29th
9 am to 12 pm
Kalona Public Library

Tuesday, September 30th
9 am to 12 pm
Great Prairie AEA – Ottumwa

As always, registration is available through the State Library of Iowa’s CE Catalog at http://www.statelibraryofiowa.org/cgi-bin/cecat/. Contact Katie Dunneback at kdunneback@sls.lib.ia.us if you have any questions.

PROFESSIONAL BOOK OF THE WEEK

Title: Library 2.0: A Guide to Participatory Library Service
Author: Michael E. Casey and Laura C. Savastinuk

Summary:
This book isn’t an overview of tools to be used in “library 2.0” (though there is some of that), it’s an explanation of what it means to provide library 2.0 service. If you are looking for ways to expand your library’s service mission and the reasoning behind choosing certain avenues over others, read through this clear explanation of how to take your library to the next level.

TOWN MEETING SIGN-UP

For those who are considering going to the Town Meetings this year, the registration period is open. Learn more about what will be discussed at the State Library of Iowa’s website: http://www.statelibraryofiowa.org/archive/2008/aug08/tm08. Also, if you are going, the registration fee needs to be sent to the East Central LSA and *not* our office. Please let us know if you have any questions!

From EDGAR to IDEA

For the reference librarians among us, if you deal with investor information at all, be aware that the Securities and Exchange Commission will be moving away from their current database, EDGAR, to a new service called Interactive Data Electronic Applications (IDEA). More information can be found here:

http://www.sec.gov/news/press/2008/2008-179.htm.

WILTON RECEIVES VISION IOWA AWARD

Wilton Library Commmunity Center was awarded $450,000 from Vision Iowa contingent upon us raising another $450,000 in 120 days. Congratulation to them! For donation or other information, contact Sharon Bowers, Director, at wplstaff@netwtc.net.

PROFESSIONAL BOOK OF THE WEEK

Title: Teaching the Internet in Libraries
Author: Rachel Singer Gordon

Summary:
One of the most intimidating resources the library offers is computer and internet access. It’s also one of the hardest resources to teach due to varying experience and fear levels among your students. This book gives an overview of things to consider when developing classes on the internet as well as resources and techniques you can use as examples.

ADVANCED READER COPIES

Some people asked in the RA Recap classes that Katie did how you go about getting Advanced Reader/Review Copies (or ARCs). There are a lot of different ways, but Talia Ross, Library Marketing Specialist at Macmillan would be happy to put you on her list so she can clear out her office.

http://www.unshelved.com/blog.aspx?post=1128

Macmillan includes the following fiction publishers/imprints:

Farrar, Straus & Giroux
Palgrave Macmillan
Picador
St. Martin’s Press
and Tor/Forge

WHAT SELLS?

For those of you who may be interested in hearing what books editors think are going to be their big sellers this fall and winter, you can join in the live discussions from September 16th through the 25th. Advanced registration is required:

https://publishers.webex.com/mw0305l/mywebex/default.do?siteurl=publishers

PROFESSIONAL BOOK OF THE WEEK

To mix things up a little, here is a list of books we have which are completely about or include sections on personnel issues. If you are looking to put together personnel policies, do staff evaluations, encourage on-going staff development, or are even thinking about hiring some new staff, these books include many resources on the topic. Don’t forget to also check the State Library of Iowa’s professional collection for even more books on the subject.

+ The Complete Guide to Performance Standards for Library Personnel by Carol F. Goodson
+ Evaluating Library Staff: A Performance Appraisal System by Patricia Belcastro
+ Human Resources for Results by Jeanne Goodrich and Paula M. Singer
+ The Personnel Manual: An Outline for Libraries by Charles E. Kratz and Valerie A. Platz
+ Running a Small Library edited by John A. Moorman
+ Successful Staff Development by Marcia Trotta
+ Staff Development: A Practical Guide by Elizabeth Fuseler Avery, et. al.
+ Staffing for Results by Diane Mayo and Jeanne Goodrich

Why are Libraries Essential?

"Library Journal’s" July, 2008 article reminds us why we do what we do. http://www.libraryjournal.com/article/CA6573334.html

Trade Version of Rowling's "The Tales of Beedle the Bard" Coming

J K Rowling's TALES OF BEEDLE THE BARD--the book of wizarding folk tales referred to in the Deathly Hallows se she wrote by hand and illustrated herself, producing only seven copies, one which was bought at auction by Amazon for $4 million--will be issued in a trade edition after all, on December 4. Rowling will also add "notes by Professor Albus Dumbledore, which appear by generous permission of the Hogwarts Headmasters' Archive."Amazon will produce up to 100,000 facsimile "collector's editions" (at $100/50 pounds) and Scholastic and Bloomsbury will print and distribute trade editions--all on behalf of the Children's High Level Group, a charity co-founded by Rowling to help children suffering in institutions. (CHLG is technically the publisher.)The charitable group will receive all "net proceeds," estimated in the release to be about $8 million. Though in a quote from Rowling, she says the charity will receive the "royalties." (Note that Amazon's edition alone would gross $10 million....).Rowling says in the announcement: "There was understandable disappointment among Harry Potter fans when only one copy of The Tales of Beedle the Bard was offered to the public last December. I am therefore delighted to announce that, thanks to the generous support of Bloomsbury, Scholastic and Amazon (who bought the handwritten copy at auction) - and with the blessing of the wonderful people who own the other six original books - The Tales of Beedle the Bard will now be widely available to all Harry Potter fans." The book will be available for pre-order from Amazon, with a release date of December 4th, 2008.

Hot Titles to Watch – From Book Expo America

http://www.libraryjournal.com/article/CA6573328.html has a great list of upcoming titles to add to your list for consideration!

ILL Goes Green in Ames, IA

By Norman Oder -- Library Journal, 6/15/2008
The Ames Public Library (APL), IA, and Iowa State University (ISU) Library are only about two miles apart, but, until recently, they exchanged interlibrary loan (ILL) materials using the U.S. Postal Service, which required packages to be routed via Des Moines, 31 miles away. Beginning last October, the two libraries decided to lower their carbon footprint with a local company called Bikes at Work, a bicycle delivery service that builds its own trailers.
Wayne A. Pedersen, head of acquisitions and ILL/document delivery at the ISU Library, came up with the idea. “I was aware of the company and felt we needed some changes in the way we handled our ILL service,” Pedersen said. He reported that a total of 144 items—including books, CDs, and DVDs—have been borrowed by ISU from APL, with 13 borrowed by APL from ISU. While those numbers may seem modest, ISU has actually borrowed items at more than double the previous clip, while costs are lower and delivery speed has been cut by about a third. ISU users can order ASU materials via ILL by going to OCLC, bypassing any ISU paperwork.
Also, Pedersen noted, the courier service now has enabled APL to loan CDs and DVDs to the ISU Library. Jim Gregory of Bikes at Work explained that the contract is indeed profitable. “The libraries are only a couple of miles apart, so we can make a round trip between them quickly.” Also, a mail run to the local post office, just a block from the public library, makes things easier.

Programming Idea – Speed Matching Volunteers to Local Organizations

An interesting idea from Pennsylvania! The Northland Public Library hosts speed matching (Iike speed dating) for potential volunteers and area organizations. The event was hosted on a Friday evening in the summer when the library was closed and provided wine and cheese. Participants, particularly newly retired, or soon to be retired, baby boomers could engage in up to 16 interviews that lasted 3 minutes each. A time keeper rang a bell to start the session and rang the bell to end the session. A small amount of time was allowed for moving between tables. For details on the event, you can contact Mary Lee Resnick at Northland Public Library at (412)366-8100 extension 113 or at resnickm@einetwork.net. Information courtesy the March/April 2008 Public Libraries, a journal serving Public Library Association Members (unfortunately 2008 articles are not available online until 2009).

RED CROSS REMINDER

It feels like time is always slipping away during the summer, doesn’t it? We’ve partnered with local American Red Cross agencies to offer both adult CPR and First Aid training and the last day to register is hurtling at us full throttle. You have the option of signing up for the full day class of CPR training in the morning followed by First Aid after a lunch break, or taking just the CPR training in the morning or the First Aid training in the afternoon. If you choose to take only the First Aid training, you must have current adult CPR certification.

SLS is partially subsidizing the cost of the classes for libraries in our region, so you will only pay $25 for both courses or $10 for the CPR-only course. The First Aid-only course will be free. We have four days split between two locations – each course is only one session long. Class size is limited, so register today!

CE Units: 5 for full course, 3 for CPR, 2 for First Aid

Tuesday, August 12th
Bettendorf Public Library – Lillienthal Room
9 am to 12:30 pm – CPR course
1:30 pm to 4:00 pm – First Aid course

Wednesday, August 13th
Bettendorf Public Library – Lillienthal Room
9 am to 12:30 pm – CPR course
1:30 pm to 4:00 pm – First Aid course

Tuesday, August 19th
Ottumwa Public Library
9 am to 12:30 pm – CPR course
1:30 pm to 4:00 pm – First Aid course

Wednesday, August 20th
Ottumwa Public Library
9 am to 12:30 pm – CPR course
1:30 pm to 4:00 pm – First Aid course

As always, registration is available through the State Library’s CE catalog at http://www.statelibraryofiowa.org/cgi-bin/cecat/.

Is Google Going To Meet It’s Match?

A former Google staffer is trying to challenge the Internet search giant with a new engine called Cuil (pronounced “cool”). It sounds promising – to learn more visit http://money.cnn.com/2008/07/28/technology/cuil.ap/index.htm?cnn=yes.

To try it out, visit www.cuil.com.

Reader’s Advisory Article from Library Journal – How to create your own RA toolkit!

Visit http://www.libraryjournal.com/article/CA6566472.html to read a great article on how to build your bag of tricks for guiding patrons to the right book! It includes sites that offer free newsletters and weekly updates (which you can get via RSS feed to your email account – let us at SLS know if you’d like to set up an RSS feed and/or an account to keep track of your RSS feeds).

Gaming Article from March/April 2008 "Public Libraries" Outlines the Importance of Gaming as an Educational Tool

Unfortunately we can’t link to the article as "Public Libraries" doesn’t post their articles online. However, this is a great article about the importance of fun in learning, and particularly how Guitar Hero and Rock Band make learning about music fun and inspiring. The games allow people of all ages to live out their rock and roll fantasies in a safe and accepting environment and provide a sense of achievement. If you’d like us to fax you a copy of the article, let us know!

Note: SLS currently has "Guitar Hero" and "Guitar Hero III" available with PlayStation 2 rental.

PROFESSIONAL BOOK OF THE WEEK

Title: The Preservation of Digital Materials
Author: Priscilla Caplan

Summary:
For those considering digitization projects, such as of local history materials, this is a concise introduction to the considerations which need to be made. Of especial consideration to those beginning the research process for this type of project is an overview of applications specific to digital repositories and collections.

READ FOR THE RECORD

Looking for a program this fall? Want to be part of a world record attempt? Check out Jumpstart’s Read for the Record. On October 2nd, they are encouraging all children to read "Corduroy" by Don Freeman. More information can be found at: http://www.readfortherecord.org/.

SLS Teams With Red Cross to Offer First Aid Training to Libraries

We’re happy to announce that we’ve partnered with local American Red Cross agencies to offer both adult CPR and First Aid training. You have the option of signing up for the full day class of CPR training in the morning followed by First Aid after a lunch break, or taking just the CPR training in the morning or the First Aid training in the afternoon. If you choose to take only the First Aid training, you must have current adult CPR certification.

SLS is partially subsidizing the cost of the classes for libraries in our region, so you will only pay $25 for both courses or $10 for the CPR-only course. The First Aid-only course will be free. We have four days split between two locations – each course is only one session long. Class size is limited, so register today!

CE Units: 5 for full course, 3 for CPR, 2 for First Aid

Tuesday, August 12th
Bettendorf Public Library – Lillienthal Room
9 am to 12:30 pm – CPR course
1:30 pm to 4:00 pm – First Aid course

Wednesday, August 13th
Bettendorf Public Library – Lillienthal Room
9 am to 12:30 pm – CPR course
1:30 pm to 4:00 pm – First Aid course

Tuesday, August 19th
Ottumwa Public Library
9 am to 12:30 pm – CPR course
1:30 pm to 4:00 pm – First Aid course

Wednesday, August 20th
Ottumwa Public Library
9 am to 12:30 pm – CPR course
1:30 pm to 4:00 pm – First Aid course

As always, registration is available through the State Library’s CE catalog at http://www.statelibraryofiowa.org/cgi-bin/cecat/.

Professional Book of the Week

Title: The Library’s Crisis Communications Planner: A PR Guide for Handling Every Emergency

Author: Jan Thenell

Summary:
As demonstrated during the recent flooding crisis, disasters are news, from the local and sometimes national levels. When a crisis happens, a plan needs to be in place as to how you communicate what your response is to the crisis. You will be too busy dealing with the crisis to figure out a plan at that time. This book walks you through considerations such as library stakeholders who need to be kept up to date on all progress to developing sample press releases. A must read for every library because crises don’t discriminate.

NOW WE'RE COOKIN'

WebJunction free webinar on PC reservation systems!
Maintain IT Webinar: Notes from a PC Reservation system that works!
On July 15, grab a comfy chair and participate in a 30-minute discussion where contributors to the Cookbooks share their insights, their secrets, and what you can do to get started with projects like theirs. Join Kieran Hixon and Jesse Walker from John C Fremont Library in Florence, CO as they share their trials and tribulations around their former PC reservation system, and jump for joy as they reveal what saved them (hint: it's open source, free, and yours for the taking!).

STATE LIBRARY STANDOUT

Michele Leininger is one of 5 WebJunction Member Award winners. For more information on this exciting nod to Michele’s hard work on behalf of America’s small and rural libraries, visit http://blog.webjunctionworks.org/index.php/2008/07/03/member-awards-at-the-wj-reception/.

New and Imrpoved WebJunction

Want to see the New and Improved WebJunction? Watch an archived session displaying and explaining the exciting new features coming soon at: http://www.webjunction.org/do/DisplayContent?id=20427. Some really great new enhancements and an easier organization are on the way.

MOTIVATE YOUR BOARD

ARSL/WebJunction free webinar - July 31
Rural Webinars: Motivating Your Board—Money, Lawsuits, and Facilities
The Association for Rural and Small Libraries and WebJunction offer free monthly webinars on topics of interest for Rural and Small Libraries. Join us on July 31 for the second webinar in our 2008 series on board relationships and strategies. Ellen Miller and Jim Connor will facilitate a session on proven techniques for motivating your board and empowering them to make the most from their position. View information on our upcoming July webinar on the Rural In Focus Webinar page.

BI-LINGUAL MEDICARE TOOLKITS AVAILABLE

English/Spanish Medicare toolkit for libraries – available at http://www.webjunction.org/do/DisplayContent?id=20425.
This extensive toolkit will help librarians direct Medicare beneficiaries/seniors to the right place when needing help regarding Medicare issues. Resources are provided in both English and Spanish.

Maintain IT

The Maintain IT Project gathers and distributes stories around how libraries are maintaining and supporting public computers. The tips and techniques collected from libraries are spotlighted in free guides (called Cookbooks), in articles, and on the www.maintainitproject.org web site. Contribute your ideas for the project and communicate directly with the Maintain IT staff in our Maintain IT discussion space.

Professional Book of the Week

Title: Powerful Public Relations: A How-To Guide for Libraries
Editor: Rashelle S. Karp

Summary:
This compact tome covers a wide range of ways to promote and publicize your library. Everything from electronic to print publications and exhibits to special events is covered in this useful guide. A must read for anyone looking to punch up their public relations.

SLS Announces "Webinar"

In Focus Webinar: Motivating Your Board
Each month we present an hour-long webinar related to the work of sustaining rural and small libraries. Join us on July 31st, 11:00 am PT/ 2:00 pm ET for our second in a series of board webinars for 2008. This webinar is all about motivating your board to realize their full potential and positively impact your community. Ellen Miller and Jim Connor will facilitate. You will find instructions for joining this free webinar in addition to archives of past webinars at Rural In Focus.