CONGRATS TO WAPELLO JR./SR. HIGH SCHOOL

The Wapello Junior/Senior High School has won a $1,500 award from Alibris to replace non-fiction books lost during last year’s flooding. For more on the story, visit
http://www.literacynews.com/news/alibris-presents-libraries-with-a-3-000-collection-award.html.

(from American Libraries Direct, 2/18/2009)

DIRECTOR'S ROUNTABLE REGISTRATION DEADLINE EXTENDED

We have extended the registration period for this year’s Directors’ Roundtables. As a reminder, we do require a minimum of 8 registrations for in person continuing education events to hold the event.

In addition to discussing current issues, programs and other concerns with your fellow library directors, Kim will be presenting the updates to the Open Meetings/Open Records legislation. These sessions are a great way to stimulate ideas to bring back to your libraries.

Mt. Pleasant Public Library – 2nd floor Community Room
Tuesday, March 3rd – Registration deadline Friday, February 27th
1 pm to 3 pm

Ottumwa Public Library
Thursday, March 5th – Registration deadline Tuesday, March 3rd
10 am to 12 pm

Registration is available through the State Library’s CE catalog at http://www.statelibraryofiowa.org/cgi-bin/cecat/index.cgi.

Please contact Katie Dunneback at kdunneback@sls.lib.ia.us with any questions.

PROFESSIONAL BOOK OF THE WEEK

Title: From Outreach to Equity: Innovative Models of Library Policy and Practice
Editor: Robin Osborne

Summary:
Outreach, in tough economic times, can be a hard service to justify. However, it is also one of the easiest ways to build community goodwill and develop non-library users into library users by going to where they are. Split into six main topic areas (services outside library walls, outreach inside the library, outreach using information technology, technical services, advocacy and outreach, and staff development), the essays included in this slim volume are packed with ideas on how to grow your services.

DES MOINES ZOO'S INCENTIVES HELP IOWA LIBRARIES

The Blank Park Zoo of Des Moines has generously offered to give libraries throughout Iowa free zoo passes to use as incentives during the Summer Library Program. The zoo is also offering outreach programs based on this year’s theme that they can bring to your library. The cost is $75.00 plus mileage ($0.485 cents per mile) to and from the program.
If you have questions or would like to book a program contact Haley Anderson, Education Specialist/Community Relations, Blank Park Zoo, 515-974-2550, haanderson@blankparkzoo.org

If you are interested in Blank Park Zoo passes to use as incentives during your summer program please use the link to the survey below to let us know your library information and how many zoo passes you will need for the summer. The zoo passes will be distributed by the Central Iowa Library Service Area, so please contact Sarah Willeford at swilleford@cilsa.lib.ia.us if you have any questions regarding the zoo passes.

Link to Blank Park Zoo Pass Survey http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=dDRzYDSeCF_2fVmScF16aqPA_3d_3d

PROFESSIONAL BOOK OF THE WEEK

Title: Fundraising Ideas: Over 225 Money Making Events for Community Groups, with a Resource Directory
Author: Janell Shride Amos

Summary:
In this time of budget crunching, we’re all looking around for alternative revenue streams. Amos provides a full list of ideas, along with tips on how to implement them. Even if none of the included ideas are your cup of tea, skimming through them should be enough to get your creative fundraising juices flowing!

State Library Opens "KIDS FIRST" Conference Registration

The KIDS FIRST conference registration is open and available. Information on how to sign up is below. SLS will be offering a scholarship this year...more information regarding that is forthcoming. Please contact the SLS office if you have any questions.

Here’s the link: http://www.statelibraryofiowa.org/ld/youth-services/kidsfirst/kf2009.
Scroll down to the very last page for the registration form.
Print it off and send it (and your money) to Fran at the State Library of Iowa.
All the information is there.

Professional Book of the Week

Title: Managing Money: A Guide for Librarians
Author: Anne M. Turner

Summary:
Do you feel like finances are often another language? Turner clearly lays out a number of concepts and situations which directly impact library budgets. Major topics include budgets, purchasing, requesting bids for projects, audits and finance departments.

PROFESSIONAL BOOK OF THE WEEK

Title: Staff Development: A Practical Guide
Authors: Elizabeth Fuseler Avery, Terry Dahlin, Deborah A. Carver

Summary:
Libraries are in the business off providing excellent customer service. Part of providing that level of excellence is having a well-trained staff. Staff training is one of those things we all recognize the need for, but rarely seem to have the time to do. This book will guide you through training concepts and building a staff development program. The practical nature of this book makes it useful in any type and size of library.

Cedar Rapids Team Named "Librarian of the Year" by Library Journal

January’s issue of Library Journal has named the "Librarian of the Year"…and it’s Team Cedar Rapids! Congratulations to the Cedar Rapids Library.

As they and other libraries impacted directly or indirectly from last summer’s flooding continue to work to bring extraordinary service in extraordinary times, let’s celebrate what libraries of all types and sizes do for, and with, their communities!

Keep the good news coming…we’d love to share it with everyone in the Iowa library community. Feel free to email Kim Kietzman at kkietzman@sls.lib.ia.us with your news as it happens.

Keokuk Receives Grants for "Big Read"

The African American Museum of Iowa has been awarded a National Endowment for the Arts grant to administer The Big Read program in Iowa communities in 2009.

The Keokuk Public Library will be one of seven libraries where people will read "Their Eyes Were Watching God," by Zora Neale Hurston. The Big Read will include speakers, book discussions, movie screenings and a one-woman play relating to the book in January and February. Plenty of copies of the book (including large print and audio) and reading guides are available for checkout at the KPL, 210 N. 5th Street.

This Saturday, January 10th at 2:00 PM is the kick-off for the KPL’s first Big Read of 2009. “Queen Zora”, a one-woman play written and performed by Ruth Anne Gaines, depicting the life of Zora Neale Hurston from her childhood of poverty in the rural south to her rise in the Harlem Renaissance. The program will be 30 – 45 minutes in length.

Find information on other Big Read events at http://www.keokuklibrary.org/ (http://www.keokuk.lib.ia.us/use-our-library/programs/bigread2009/bigread-hurston/) or http://www.blackiowa.org/.

In March, the KPL will celebrate another Big Read with The Adventures of Tom Sawyer, by Mark Twain.

The following is from the American Library Association. If interested, please reply to address below.

Dear Librarian:
The ALA Public Programs Office is pleased to partner with the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) for the sixth We the People Bookshelf project. This year’s theme, "Picturing America," explores the premise that a nation’s literature, as well as its visual art, can be a window on its character, ideals and aspirations.

Public and school (K-12) libraries are invited to apply online through January 30, 2009 at http://publicprograms.ala.org/bookshelf. A single application may be submitted on behalf of multiple libraries within a library system, school district or community. Individual branch and school libraries are also encouraged to apply.

In spring 2009, NEH will award 4,000 libraries - the most ever under a single Bookshelf grant - a collection of 17 classic hardcover books for young readers, related to the "Picturing America" theme, as well as Spanish translations of three titles, and bonus materials for readers of all ages. Successful applicants will also receive accompanying materials for programming, including bookplates, bookmarks and posters.
For programming ideas and tips, access to the guidelines and application, book titles, and further details, visit http://publicprograms.ala.org/bookshelf. With questions, contact publicprograms@ala.org.

Professional Book of the Week

Title: Library Volunteers – Worth the Effort! A Program Manager’s Guide
Author: Sally Gardner Reed

Summary:
Volunteers can be a staple to library services. Good and great volunteers are worth their weight in gold and then some. Learning how to effectively manage these fabulous resources, and the sometimes not-so-fabulous ones, is one librarians struggle with. Reed, Executive Director of Friends of Libraries USA (FOLUSA), lays out solid advice and guidance on the various situations you may face when dealing with volunteers.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS FROM SLS!

CONGRATS TO WEST LIBERTY LIBRARY'S TECHNOTEENS!

The West Liberty Public Library's First Lego League team, TechnoTeens, with the support of Iowa State University Extension, Rockwell Collins, and volunteer coaches Mark McLain and Trista Clark participated in the prequalifying rounds at Cedar Rapids on Saturday, December 13th. Forty teams from Southeast Iowa competed. The Library's team received the Rising Star Award for potential and teamwork in a first-year team and now will participate at the State Tournament in Ames on January 17th.

First Lego League(FLL)is an international club for 9 to 13-year-olds that teaches children not only NTX Robotics design but also math, science,social studies and teamwork. There are also First Lego Leagues for 5-8 year-olds as well as a high school category.

In Iowa, FLL is sponsored by Iowa State University and Rockwell Collins in Cedar Rapids. Teams of 2-10 participants take on a yearly challenge, Climate Connections for 2008. The participants must find an issue related to the challenge locally, research and find the same issue on a global scale and then brainstorm and make a project presentation exploring the issue and then suggest a possible solution. Additionally, the students are given a game board with 12 tasks that they must build and then program a Lego NXT robot to complete.

The West Liberty Library's TechnoTeens are not only the first Library team to compete, but they are also one of the rare teams that are not associated with a school classroom environment.

PROFESSIONAL BOOK OF THE WEEK

Title: Public Libraries and Internet Service Roles
Authors: Charles R. McClure and Paul T. Jaeger

Summary:
Computers and public internet access are here to stay. How we support that service is one that continues to change as our communities change. This book will help you to think about what you want your role to be in the future in providing internet services to the public and how you can achieve those goals.

Professional Book of the Week

Title: Delivering Satisfaction and Service Quality: A Customer-Based Approach for Libraries
Authors: Peter Hernon and John R. Whitman

Summary:
In these tight financial times, we are in need of a strong support base of loyal supporters. The primary way we build that support network is by providing excellent customer service. Customer service is where libraries need to excel. This guide helps you evaluate your current customer service system as well as presenting ways to improve that system.

E-BOOKS?

Are ebooks the future?
Amazon thinks so…read about the first birthday of their e-reader device, the Kindle, at http://www.cnn.com/2008/TECH/12/03/kindle.electronic.reader/index.html for some interesting perspectives on where electronic books might be headed.

DAVENPORT LIBRARY SEEKS TECHNICAL SERVICES SUPERVISOR

The Davenport Public Library is currently accepting applications for the position of Technical Services Supervisor. For more information, please click on the link below:

http://www.statelibraryofiowa.org/ld/joblist/dav/.

Deadline for applying is December 28, 2008.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING FROM ALL OF US AT SOUTHEASTERN LIBRARY SERVICES!

Our office will be closed on Thursday, November 27th in observance of the Thanksgiving Holiday. We will resume normal business hours on Friday, November 28th.

PROFESSIONAL BOOK OF THE WEEK

Title: The Librarian’s Guide to Partnerships
Editor: Sherry Lynch

Summary:
Libraries are forever being asked to tighten our belts, and we will probably see further financial cuts in the next few years. It is important for libraries to develop community partnerships to cement our sustainability. This book shows particular cases where community partnerships aided in one library’s mission of providing excellent quality service to their community.

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.