Joe Yersavich and Dewitt Harrell watching Chris Korenowsky and Jodi Lee present. Click for more random pics including the Recruiting Booth, Staff Shots, and Jodi & Chris's presentation.
Sunday, March 30, 2008
Random Pics
Joe Yersavich and Dewitt Harrell watching Chris Korenowsky and Jodi Lee present. Click for more random pics including the Recruiting Booth, Staff Shots, and Jodi & Chris's presentation.
Goodbye Minneapolis
Before I left yesterday, I visited the central library. Lots of WOW factor! I actually went on a tour and had a phenomenal tour guide. Before I left I added CML's autograph and a hello to the teen graffiti wall! More pictures here
A few tidbits from my Friday afternoon sessions…
From Raising Media-wise Kids:
Whoever tells the stories defines the culture –the presenter, David Walsh, from the National Institute on MEDIA and the FAMILY, repeated this phrase a lot. His point was that we need to look at what some of our digital habits will say about us. Something to think about…and although this presentation did not talk much about solutions or how libraries can affect the stories being told, it made me think about it. How can libraries do something about this?
A steady diet of violent images does not lead to violent behavior, it creates a culture of disrespect. What do you think about this? He also presented many scary statistics about our kids today and how much 'screen time' they get (TV and video games). It's big: 34 hours per week for the average child, compared to only 1/2 hour of alone time with dad or 1/2 hour reading for pleasure...I’d heard some version of this before, but it is still a huge societal issue. What can libraries do about this?
Since we did not discuss SOLUTIONS in this program, I am left feeling: "OK, what now? Let's do something!"
From The Need To Lead
This was a panel discussion on leadership. The panel members were all a part of the Urban Libraries Council, Executive Leadership Institute (ELI) program. The discussion focused also on leadership and how one can develop as a leader. Even though all the participants were a part of the ELI program and were leaders at the executive level, the discussion also focused on leadership in general and about different types of leadership and how one can grow as a leader.
One participant said there are 3 key attributes in one with leadership potential: Passion, Good Judgement and Courage.
Since this was a discussion, it is hard to summarize, especially 24 hours later. Looking at my notes right now they seem very general. The participants talked a lot about challenges they faced and how they grew from them. I'd heard some of what they said before, but it was the kind of thing where hearing it again at this particular place and time left me feeling energized!
Whoever tells the stories defines the culture –the presenter, David Walsh, from the National Institute on MEDIA and the FAMILY, repeated this phrase a lot. His point was that we need to look at what some of our digital habits will say about us. Something to think about…and although this presentation did not talk much about solutions or how libraries can affect the stories being told, it made me think about it. How can libraries do something about this?
A steady diet of violent images does not lead to violent behavior, it creates a culture of disrespect. What do you think about this? He also presented many scary statistics about our kids today and how much 'screen time' they get (TV and video games). It's big: 34 hours per week for the average child, compared to only 1/2 hour of alone time with dad or 1/2 hour reading for pleasure...I’d heard some version of this before, but it is still a huge societal issue. What can libraries do about this?
Since we did not discuss SOLUTIONS in this program, I am left feeling: "OK, what now? Let's do something!"
From The Need To Lead
This was a panel discussion on leadership. The panel members were all a part of the Urban Libraries Council, Executive Leadership Institute (ELI) program. The discussion focused also on leadership and how one can develop as a leader. Even though all the participants were a part of the ELI program and were leaders at the executive level, the discussion also focused on leadership in general and about different types of leadership and how one can grow as a leader.
One participant said there are 3 key attributes in one with leadership potential: Passion, Good Judgement and Courage.
Since this was a discussion, it is hard to summarize, especially 24 hours later. Looking at my notes right now they seem very general. The participants talked a lot about challenges they faced and how they grew from them. I'd heard some of what they said before, but it was the kind of thing where hearing it again at this particular place and time left me feeling energized!
Saturday, March 29, 2008
information 911
Wow, this week has flown by and this is the first chance I have had to get on a computer! Programs have been great and the ideas have been priceless. Yesterday I attended a session called "Information 911" that talked about diversity and the roadblocks that individuals sometimes face when seeking information or services from the library. Tracie Hall from Dominican University talked about the different facets of diversity--not just race and language, but things like education, age, gender, accents, and limitations based on lifestyle. All of these things affect how we are able to find information, and all of these things need to be taken into consideration when we think about our services.
What we at the library need to do is examine ourselves on a regular basis and determine whether we are looking at our services through different lenses so that we are not inadverdently creating more roadblocks for people. If an individual is illiterate, how do we expect them to read our signs to find out where things are? If an individual has been excluded from services in the past based on race or age or gender, how can expect them to feel safe coming to us for information if our staff does not reflect any bit of the diversity that we see in our customers? Awareness of these roadblocks is the first step, but not the only step. It is an ongoing process to constantly evaluate our services and how we are presenting them to different individuals.
Lots to consider. Thanks to Tracie Hall for bringing up some issues that make lots of library people uncomfortable but are necessary to wrestle with if we want to survive and thrive as libraries.
( and for making her presentation so wonderfully interactive!)
What we at the library need to do is examine ourselves on a regular basis and determine whether we are looking at our services through different lenses so that we are not inadverdently creating more roadblocks for people. If an individual is illiterate, how do we expect them to read our signs to find out where things are? If an individual has been excluded from services in the past based on race or age or gender, how can expect them to feel safe coming to us for information if our staff does not reflect any bit of the diversity that we see in our customers? Awareness of these roadblocks is the first step, but not the only step. It is an ongoing process to constantly evaluate our services and how we are presenting them to different individuals.
Lots to consider. Thanks to Tracie Hall for bringing up some issues that make lots of library people uncomfortable but are necessary to wrestle with if we want to survive and thrive as libraries.
( and for making her presentation so wonderfully interactive!)
IMAGINE IT, DREAM IT .... AT CML
Wendy Turner is networking with candidate from San Diego who just happens to have good friends in "OHIO". He definitely is inspired by CML and our story!
EXPLORE IT, IMAGINE IT, WORK IT …. AT CML
On Thursday and Friday Wendy Turner and I joined our recruiting colleagues from 14 libraries across the country at the PLA Placement Center to share the CML story. Some of our library friends included Chicago, Queens, Houston, Las Vegas, San Diego, New York Public, and Los Angeles. From a local recruiting perspective we recognize our “staff recruit” everyday by their passion and excellent service to our community. Wendy and I had the privilege to experience the same on a national level. Our visitors and library colleagues were at our booth because of CML’s reputation, passion, and accomplishments that our people make a reality every day. In my mind it does come down to GSD – getting stuff done as quoted by John Wood in the opening session and CML does GSD. Our library colleagues are inspired by our staff and their accomplishments and many wanted to become part of the CML story. Our colleagues from San Diego had a surf board --- we had incredible stories and future vision to share. Thank you CML staff for all you do – you make CML A GREAT PLACE TO WORK!
Pictures
Thanks to Joe I have some pics of 2 of our CML presentations today.Chris and Jodi, ready to present about Pro-Active service.
By all accounts, they were
incredible! They engaged the crowd, they were enthusiastic and high-energy, and even the sound guy said they were the best thing he's seen all week. Oh yea, and did I mention that it was a packed AUDITORIUM? They probably had over 1000 people. Yikes!I
didn't get to actually see it because Brandy and I presented at the same time (and Shaunessy, Robin and Marihelen were at the same time, too - what are the odds?) Brandy and I talked about Homework Help Centers. We had a much smaller room, and only had about 150 ppl. Still, for Youth Services, that doesn't suck! We had a lot of people around after
to ask questions and talk, and that is a great indicator, don't you think?
I also have this picture of our logo - but I won't go into the story of where it is and how it got there. This is a magnificent week for CML - we are Representing (note the capital R), and it feels really good. Suffice to say that it's a great privilege to be part of a system where we all care so passionately about moving forward, serving the customers in creative ways to meet their real needs, not just what we think they should need or what we feel like doing that day.
. . . and boy are my feet tired!
I've spent a lot of time this week working the exhibit floor (as in shopping - who needs the Mall of America?), but I did manage to calm down enough for 2 valuable things today.
One was lunch. Although i'd started out to go to lunch with our old friends, Kristen Shelley and Kim Gales (and others), I opted instead to get a cheap lunch right at the convention center. I ended up sitting with some librarians from very small libraries in Kansas, Illinois, Kentucky, Oklahoma. Boy, we had some great conversations about how to deal with kids who have no other social outlets than the library, etc. I plugged CPI (again - sorry about the broken record thing) and told them (preach it, sister!) about the importance of a strong code of conduct and all-staff training in recognizing signs of aggitation and knowing how to respond in a manner that is most likely to de-escalate things.
If you ever doubt it, know this: we are so lucky to have the funding and the visionary administration that we have (and that we've had over the last 20 years). We really are a cutting edge system in so many ways. (nuff said)
The session I went to this morning was on Library 2.0. Oh, I know what you're thinking, "we have Helene with us now, we don't need to hear other folks talk about this." Not true! It's not going to be a reality for CML unless we all hop on that same train, my friends!
Points I gleaned:
One was lunch. Although i'd started out to go to lunch with our old friends, Kristen Shelley and Kim Gales (and others), I opted instead to get a cheap lunch right at the convention center. I ended up sitting with some librarians from very small libraries in Kansas, Illinois, Kentucky, Oklahoma. Boy, we had some great conversations about how to deal with kids who have no other social outlets than the library, etc. I plugged CPI (again - sorry about the broken record thing) and told them (preach it, sister!) about the importance of a strong code of conduct and all-staff training in recognizing signs of aggitation and knowing how to respond in a manner that is most likely to de-escalate things.
If you ever doubt it, know this: we are so lucky to have the funding and the visionary administration that we have (and that we've had over the last 20 years). We really are a cutting edge system in so many ways. (nuff said)
The session I went to this morning was on Library 2.0. Oh, I know what you're thinking, "we have Helene with us now, we don't need to hear other folks talk about this." Not true! It's not going to be a reality for CML unless we all hop on that same train, my friends!
Points I gleaned:
- Design for uncertainty - you never know what is going to happen, and you should be ready to shift if needed to better serve the customers
- Keep experimenting! There is no right or wrong, there is just experimentation - if it works do it more, if it doesn't work, try the next idea.
- In Boston they have Youtube vids of teens booktalking - on their website!
- Learning 2.0 is amazing (GO HELENE!)
- Web-based activity (i.e. on a teen website the library runs) is higher when it's associated with a program.
- "Reminder me later" feature on their events calendar. They can program themselves to get a reminder 3 days before the event is going to take place.
- Michael Stephens is really as much fun in person as his blog would indicate.
- Speak in a human voice - remember that your customers will respond to this better than to another lecture.
- Circ staff is blogging about books for customers - and they're sending circ staff to Book
- Expo to help them! They're our front line - if they don't know about the books, and they're the ones who are known, we're losing and opportunity.
- The library should be transparent, meaning we should allow comment in the catalog, etc.
- Throw out the culture of being perfect.
- Aim to satisfy the hearts of your customers.
- Learn to learn.
- Adapt to change.
- Scan the horizon.
Ideas I had while listening:
- Start a FlickR site where kids and adults and staff can post pictures of library events.
- Start a "1000 readers" project where we get a series of photos of people - maybe all reading the same book? Maybe each reading their fave. Why not even maybe use those things for our promotions? Our customers using the library!
- Stop worrying about controling the content of library blogs, and just let it go.
- If you haven't read it yet, go read Tame the Web's post on the library that disallows MySpace and Facebook. Pay particular attention to the comments - there is a good discussion going.
Friday, March 28, 2008
Central Library: Crown Jewel or Tarnished Tiara?
I just left an amazing presentation on central libraries. Managers from some unabashed jewels (Seattle) and some self-proclaimed tiaras (Vancouver BC) presented. Also heard a terrific history of urban libraries and the changing role of central libraries (better than anything I heard in MLIS classes!).
Greg Edwards from Cincinnati & Hamilton Co. explained their amazingly detailed analysis of central library use. They observed 23,000+ customers over 33 days and 130 shifts and were floored by what they discovered. For example, only 4% of customers observed were waiting for or talking with a librarian but 46% were using public PCs; this was in a department with many librarians but only 2 tech folks. They're just completing a massive reorganization of the building including combining departments and reconfiguring entire floors.
I talked with Greg afterwards and he said Orange Boy (our marketing group) contacted him about their changes. This is the first I've heard of it. Maybe I'm just out of the loop...
Perhaps we need more data about actual Main Library use before undertaking a $1.3M two floor remodeling project. Maybe a field trip to Cinci is in order. Maybe.
Greg Edwards from Cincinnati & Hamilton Co. explained their amazingly detailed analysis of central library use. They observed 23,000+ customers over 33 days and 130 shifts and were floored by what they discovered. For example, only 4% of customers observed were waiting for or talking with a librarian but 46% were using public PCs; this was in a department with many librarians but only 2 tech folks. They're just completing a massive reorganization of the building including combining departments and reconfiguring entire floors.
I talked with Greg afterwards and he said Orange Boy (our marketing group) contacted him about their changes. This is the first I've heard of it. Maybe I'm just out of the loop...
Perhaps we need more data about actual Main Library use before undertaking a $1.3M two floor remodeling project. Maybe a field trip to Cinci is in order. Maybe.
Technozoo
This has been my favorite session so far. Leonard Souza a "certified techno geek" shared the latest technology that could influence the way libraries do things or should be embraced by libraries. I'll include a few here as well as including the link to his presentation.
http://www.joost.com/
On demand peer to peer TV network. After initial download you can build your own TV network. Check it out it is pretty cool.
http://www.skype.com/
Video live feed over the Internet. No more long distance call fees even when you are making an international call. Leonard has been contacted many times from folks from other countries wanting to practice their English. Can be utilized for conference calling as well. Imagine the possibilities.
iPhone
No other smart phone competes with it. 28% of the smart phone market already owns an iPhone. 78% of all mobile traffic on the Internet is via an iPhone per a google study. In June, the iPhone will become an even better Smart Phone when applications for the iPhone will be relaesed. iPhone provides what customers want...an interactive experience.
Microsoft Surface
Marihelen already addressed this in a post so all I'll say is it looks awesome and has a lot of potential for libraries as a whole new trend. Interactive directory for Main Library, showcasing storytimes and other programs as a promotional piece, sharing the picture file, helping customers connect with a staff member, etc. I could go on and on, but will instead point you to Marihelen's post with the video clip of it.
Battle of the Ereaders
Right now there are only two (Sony and Kindle) and they are first generation so there is a lot of potential for these in the next 4-5 years. The font size can be changed so you almost have 3 books for the price of one. Kindle can't read PDF files, but is always connected to the Internet. Sony can read PDF files.
Heavy Hitters of Gaming
Nintendo Wii
PS3
XBox 360
Handheld
Leonard recommends the Nintendo DS over the PSP if you are more into the gaming side verse the Internet side. PSP tries to be too much.
What can libraries do?
Recognize for many customers it is no longer about accessing information, but INTERACTING with information. Libraries need to take the services we provide and become as fucntional online as we are off line. Leonard realizes he is asking a lot with this next request and knows it will take time, but he said one thing we can do is digitize our entire collections. Once we own the book we would own it forever and wouldn't have to worry about physical shelf space and needing to weed the books to make room for more.
Want to keep up with the technology trends? Leonard suggests http://www.digg.com/
Here is a link to download his presentation that includes over 700 exapmles of Web 2.0 sites that have been hand picked and categorized. WARNING It takes a little while to download. I had better luck saving it and opening the doucments. It includes PDF and some GIF files. Make sure to check out the Web Trend Road Map. If you have any problems accessing the files send me an e-mail.
www.acidblue.ltd.com/dowload/presentation.zip
http://www.joost.com/
On demand peer to peer TV network. After initial download you can build your own TV network. Check it out it is pretty cool.
http://www.skype.com/
Video live feed over the Internet. No more long distance call fees even when you are making an international call. Leonard has been contacted many times from folks from other countries wanting to practice their English. Can be utilized for conference calling as well. Imagine the possibilities.
iPhone
No other smart phone competes with it. 28% of the smart phone market already owns an iPhone. 78% of all mobile traffic on the Internet is via an iPhone per a google study. In June, the iPhone will become an even better Smart Phone when applications for the iPhone will be relaesed. iPhone provides what customers want...an interactive experience.
Microsoft Surface
Marihelen already addressed this in a post so all I'll say is it looks awesome and has a lot of potential for libraries as a whole new trend. Interactive directory for Main Library, showcasing storytimes and other programs as a promotional piece, sharing the picture file, helping customers connect with a staff member, etc. I could go on and on, but will instead point you to Marihelen's post with the video clip of it.
Battle of the Ereaders
Right now there are only two (Sony and Kindle) and they are first generation so there is a lot of potential for these in the next 4-5 years. The font size can be changed so you almost have 3 books for the price of one. Kindle can't read PDF files, but is always connected to the Internet. Sony can read PDF files.
Heavy Hitters of Gaming
Nintendo Wii
PS3
XBox 360
Handheld
Leonard recommends the Nintendo DS over the PSP if you are more into the gaming side verse the Internet side. PSP tries to be too much.
What can libraries do?
Recognize for many customers it is no longer about accessing information, but INTERACTING with information. Libraries need to take the services we provide and become as fucntional online as we are off line. Leonard realizes he is asking a lot with this next request and knows it will take time, but he said one thing we can do is digitize our entire collections. Once we own the book we would own it forever and wouldn't have to worry about physical shelf space and needing to weed the books to make room for more.
Want to keep up with the technology trends? Leonard suggests http://www.digg.com/
Here is a link to download his presentation that includes over 700 exapmles of Web 2.0 sites that have been hand picked and categorized. WARNING It takes a little while to download. I had better luck saving it and opening the doucments. It includes PDF and some GIF files. Make sure to check out the Web Trend Road Map. If you have any problems accessing the files send me an e-mail.
www.acidblue.ltd.com/dowload/presentation.zip
Looking for A Job
One tip you might want to consider when applying for that dream job......Google yourself and see how you are represented on the Internet. You may be surpirsed or not when you see an old college post from a list serv or a blog appear where you aren't at your best so to speak. The majority of the folks out there doing the hiring are googling the candidates, checking myspace, facebook, etc. So don't be surprised by what's out there...google yourself.
Ready Set, READ!
I am happy to finally have something to share! My 8:30 session was excellent and I'll share more detailed notes with fellow Youth Services staff later, but here are some highlights...
This session was sorta like Ready to Read 2.0. The spotlight was on 5,6 and 7 year olds and the session focused on reading acquisition skills and the strategies kids have to learn in order to actually read. They have to use Meaning cues, Structure cues and Visual cues. More details on these later...
When a child knows and understands these 3 strategies and is able to use them quickly, cross checking one against the other, they are reading. We all do this, even as adults.
The second half focused on how they divided their readers into levels. They did this in order to help parents better help their children. Since there are so many levels used in education, the ones they settled on were:
This session was sorta like Ready to Read 2.0. The spotlight was on 5,6 and 7 year olds and the session focused on reading acquisition skills and the strategies kids have to learn in order to actually read. They have to use Meaning cues, Structure cues and Visual cues. More details on these later...
When a child knows and understands these 3 strategies and is able to use them quickly, cross checking one against the other, they are reading. We all do this, even as adults.
The second half focused on how they divided their readers into levels. They did this in order to help parents better help their children. Since there are so many levels used in education, the ones they settled on were:
- Pre-emergent,
- Emergent
- Early Fluent
- Fluent
They also then incorporated these levels into their library catalog!!! See more info here.
My final highlight deals with how we can help parents choose books that will support reading acquisition. She said it simply: Keep it easy for the child. Why? This builds fluency and confidence. She also said the five finger method leaves too many hard words. If a child struggles with more than 2 words the book is too hard.
Like I said, I'll have more info later. I am trying to keep this short and sweet and I see I have already rambled on for a good long while...
Dangerous Ideas
This session was an interesting session and gave the room a lot to talk about. Basically several "what if" questions were thrown out. According to the reaction from several audience members some are considered pretty dangerous indeed.
What if....
Think about the above questions, talk to your co-workers and ask what if.....
What if....
We stopped cataloging?
Would it matter? Would it show us cataloging wasn't important or just how important it is?
What if we participated fully with the FBI in all criminal investigations that involved the use of library resources?
What if librarians individually and a profession, promoted, used and helped develop wikipedia?
Strength of Wikipedia is anyone can contribute. Why not leverage our expertise and make wikipedi the best it can be. **Librarian reviewed, librarian approved** ratings for the entries.
What if all libraries accepted open source software as a way of being in control of the customer experience?
What if we embraced our inner geek and created alternate reality games that lead people to our resouces?
What if mistakes were expected and embraced and librarians became the mistake masters?
What if we required all library staff to have expertise using technology?
What if we didn’t make decisions based on fear of/and/or scarcity?
What if we stopped being passive aggressive?
What if we didn't make our customers work so hard?
Think about the above questions, talk to your co-workers and ask what if.....
What color is your ILS?
AquaBrowser is great and Discovery Place is awesome and getting stronger, but it is always interesting to see what the turnkey ILS companies are putting out there.
I was given the opportunity to see two of the hottest new ILS products this side of the Mississippi:
INDIGO is a product created by TLC (The Library Company) and is 
their new ILS public interface that will be available for purchase in July. The screen saver to the the WebPac has what is called a "book river" that streams popular book covers across the screen and users can click on titles to find out more information or availability. It is like a virtual book display. Also Indigo has user tagging and allows users to create and share book lists. It also allows for each book to have its own wiki. This means readers can leave their comments on a book for others to see and add to. It is like a book discussion group online.
their new ILS public interface that will be available for purchase in July. The screen saver to the the WebPac has what is called a "book river" that streams popular book covers across the screen and users can click on titles to find out more information or availability. It is like a virtual book display. Also Indigo has user tagging and allows users to create and share book lists. It also allows for each book to have its own wiki. This means readers can leave their comments on a book for others to see and add to. It is like a book discussion group online.EVERGREEN is an open source ILS used by several major public libraries in Georgia and it is 
totally free! The idea of open source works on the principal that if you open the code to everyone, people will make changes and enhancements and then share those improvements with the group. So by having many contributors and stakeholders, the code becomes stronger and more robust and it evolves. Of course you don't have to know code to make it work. There are companies out there like LibLime who will convert your ILS information and sell you a cool little interface called Koha Zoom. This webpac has all the user defined content that Indigo has, along with a federated search in ProQuest and a smart search that will correct search errors (much like google).
totally free! The idea of open source works on the principal that if you open the code to everyone, people will make changes and enhancements and then share those improvements with the group. So by having many contributors and stakeholders, the code becomes stronger and more robust and it evolves. Of course you don't have to know code to make it work. There are companies out there like LibLime who will convert your ILS information and sell you a cool little interface called Koha Zoom. This webpac has all the user defined content that Indigo has, along with a federated search in ProQuest and a smart search that will correct search errors (much like google).Indigo...Evergreen... it sure is a colorful bunch of ILS products, that is for certain;)
Who Said Management Can't be Fun?
I went to an excellent pre-conference on management where one of the presenters, Pam Parr, promised me before the session started that "it wouldn't suck". She was right!
Both Pam and Gail Johnson (pictured) have over 30 years of experience in management and both relate to any workplace as a three ringed circus. There are a lot of different performers and always a lot of things going on at the same time. The tent of the circus is held up by 5 poles and each of these poles must remain strong or the tent will collapse.
These five poles are:
Both Pam and Gail Johnson (pictured) have over 30 years of experience in management and both relate to any workplace as a three ringed circus. There are a lot of different performers and always a lot of things going on at the same time. The tent of the circus is held up by 5 poles and each of these poles must remain strong or the tent will collapse.
These five poles are:
- Communication
- Accountability
- Staff Development
- Empowerment
- Influence
The session also gave me the opportunity for me to talk with other managers at my table including some wonderful folks from Frisco Public Library in Texas. When I talked about the innovative things that CML does they were all very impressed.
I had a great time and met some nice folks.
I guess management can be fun;)
Awesome Day!
OK. Went to a new non-fiction presentation. The list was fantastic and the presenter was hilarious. Who knew that non-fiction could be so funny? Of course when it is about underwear and assorted bodily functions, you just know that the boys will be checking that stuff out. I will certainly be reading those titles and book talking them as often as I can.
Then it was off for a spot to eat. Small spot, slightly nervous that no one would show for my presentation. To my surprise, people were showing up early and half the audience were library directors! not children's services people. They just kept coming. Lost count at 60+!
I was surprised not by one, but two blasts from the past. A former clerk (that's today's CSS, for you new folks) from the CFD, showed up (btw she still talks to her staff about how we did things then! and we've only gotten better!) and she is now the director of Youth Services for Ypsilanti and Beth Werking, former librarian CFD who helped train me showed up. It was great to see old friends and to make new ones too.
The presentation went extremely well and I have at least 4 ideas to present at upcoming conferences. The questions the attendees had would easily be addressed by things that we are already doing. I'll be getting those proposals ready;-) I was totally pumped after the presentation and celebrated at Murray's, with Joe and Chris. I think that we all had the best meal of our lives.
Looking forward to tomorrow's lineup. More later.
Then it was off for a spot to eat. Small spot, slightly nervous that no one would show for my presentation. To my surprise, people were showing up early and half the audience were library directors! not children's services people. They just kept coming. Lost count at 60+!
I was surprised not by one, but two blasts from the past. A former clerk (that's today's CSS, for you new folks) from the CFD, showed up (btw she still talks to her staff about how we did things then! and we've only gotten better!) and she is now the director of Youth Services for Ypsilanti and Beth Werking, former librarian CFD who helped train me showed up. It was great to see old friends and to make new ones too.
The presentation went extremely well and I have at least 4 ideas to present at upcoming conferences. The questions the attendees had would easily be addressed by things that we are already doing. I'll be getting those proposals ready;-) I was totally pumped after the presentation and celebrated at Murray's, with Joe and Chris. I think that we all had the best meal of our lives.
Looking forward to tomorrow's lineup. More later.
Thursday, March 27, 2008
The coolest thing - a yet to be released MS product
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JFEaXYrKmhY
The link above demonstrates one of the coolest things I have seen so far at the conference. I attended Technozoo which showcased the latest and greatest "stuff". I was familiar with the Iphone, Kindle/Sony Ebook, Nintendo DS but I had never heard of MS Surface. The speaker described it as an Iphone on crack (I think steroids is a better description) and it is! Take a look at the link above and you'll see what I mean. The possibilities are endless and while I know that is a cliche, in this case, I think it is true. This is currently in beta (in Las Vegas in "modern clubs") but a commercial version is expected to be released this summer. I want one for my personal use :-).
The link above demonstrates one of the coolest things I have seen so far at the conference. I attended Technozoo which showcased the latest and greatest "stuff". I was familiar with the Iphone, Kindle/Sony Ebook, Nintendo DS but I had never heard of MS Surface. The speaker described it as an Iphone on crack (I think steroids is a better description) and it is! Take a look at the link above and you'll see what I mean. The possibilities are endless and while I know that is a cliche, in this case, I think it is true. This is currently in beta (in Las Vegas in "modern clubs") but a commercial version is expected to be released this summer. I want one for my personal use :-).
Great Session-Early Literacy for English Language Learners
I attended a great session today on early English language learners and what we can do as a library system to support these children. This program focuses on storytimes (or any programs) in a child's native language and why this is so important.
Key points:
-Stick to one language during program. Don't switch back and forth, for instance between
Spanish and English as this is cognitively taxing for young children.
-Remember to reinforce native language as important even as children are learning English as
the "acceptable" language.
This is very applicable to CML as we are already presenting programs in languages other than English. Hopefully, what I gained from this session can be used for future programming.
Key points:
-Stick to one language during program. Don't switch back and forth, for instance between
Spanish and English as this is cognitively taxing for young children.
-Remember to reinforce native language as important even as children are learning English as
the "acceptable" language.
This is very applicable to CML as we are already presenting programs in languages other than English. Hopefully, what I gained from this session can be used for future programming.
Random Thoughts
My feet hurt.
John Wood: "World change starts with educated children." 5,100 new libraries in developing countries in less than 8 years -- see what thinking big can do?
Idea for library space allocation from Hennepin: 30% kids, 30% teens, 40% adults
"New Americans" center at Main
Change the name of "Main" to "Central" or something else
San Diego has palm trees and a surf board at their recruiting center -- like they need to rub it in that they have better weather than Columbus? We're more substance than flash...
from ULC's Making Cities Stronger session
Libraries must build human and social capital in these four areas:
- Improving early literacy and school readiness (Young Minds!!)
- Building workforce participation (computer classes, ESOL)
- Small business support (resources to support this key piece in a strong economy)
- Power of place (high foot traffic that doesn't compete with retail -- what's not to love?)
Find out what the community needs and then figure out how to meet/support those needs -- take a long term perspective. The kids falling through the cracks today won't be ready to enter the workforce. No workers, no business growth, no economy -- everyone loses.
John Wood: "World change starts with educated children." 5,100 new libraries in developing countries in less than 8 years -- see what thinking big can do?
Idea for library space allocation from Hennepin: 30% kids, 30% teens, 40% adults
"New Americans" center at Main
Change the name of "Main" to "Central" or something else
San Diego has palm trees and a surf board at their recruiting center -- like they need to rub it in that they have better weather than Columbus? We're more substance than flash...
from ULC's Making Cities Stronger session
Libraries must build human and social capital in these four areas:
- Improving early literacy and school readiness (Young Minds!!)
- Building workforce participation (computer classes, ESOL)
- Small business support (resources to support this key piece in a strong economy)
- Power of place (high foot traffic that doesn't compete with retail -- what's not to love?)
Find out what the community needs and then figure out how to meet/support those needs -- take a long term perspective. The kids falling through the cracks today won't be ready to enter the workforce. No workers, no business growth, no economy -- everyone loses.
The Angry Librarian
The following is a hilarious video that Joe Yersavich found for the proactive reference presentation on You Tube. Jodi Lee and I are presenting a session tomorrow on the start-up of new approaches to reference services at CML.
We are going to use this video as our ice breaker and obvioulsly a component of what not to do when working the information desk!
It should be fun. Our auditorium contains 2000 seats so we are going to be deep in study tomorrow! Enjoy the Angry Librarian.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7XvAakX__cQ
We are going to use this video as our ice breaker and obvioulsly a component of what not to do when working the information desk!
It should be fun. Our auditorium contains 2000 seats so we are going to be deep in study tomorrow! Enjoy the Angry Librarian.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7XvAakX__cQ
Vendor Demos!
One of the most interesting parts of PLA (IMO) is the vendor exhibitions. It provides a comprehensive experience of all the new and exciting trends in libraries. All the library vendor “big guns” are there with fantastic three dimensional displays presented with twirling gizmos, big screen TVs, massive and well lit towering logos and tons of free junk like sparkly pins, buttons, bags (oh my, the bags) and an endless supply of bookmarks. 3M, Gaylord, SirsiDynix, III, Demco, Techlogic, ProQuest (to name only a tiny handful – there were something like 400 or more altogether) – all striving in a mass competition to have the biggest, baddest, largest, sleekest giant towering display setup possible. It is such a contrast to the daily life in a public library! Whew!
I found a few good nuggets worth mentioning from my vendor stops…
(1) Materials handling systems are evolving in several important ways – (a) the systems are becoming more compact, making them more reasonable for retrofitting into libraries not designed for that purpose (b) they are beginning to listen to libraries who want the material dumped into our own plastic bins rather than being forced to purchase the $4,000 motorized bin that only works with their system (c) many of the companies are moving toward systems that function with barcodes rather than RFID only - a very important move for the industry (d) the competition is growing significantly, which means the options are growing and the prices are dropping (but only a little tiny bit). There were twice as many materials handling vendors this year as there were two years ago.
I found a few good nuggets worth mentioning from my vendor stops…
(1) Materials handling systems are evolving in several important ways – (a) the systems are becoming more compact, making them more reasonable for retrofitting into libraries not designed for that purpose (b) they are beginning to listen to libraries who want the material dumped into our own plastic bins rather than being forced to purchase the $4,000 motorized bin that only works with their system (c) many of the companies are moving toward systems that function with barcodes rather than RFID only - a very important move for the industry (d) the competition is growing significantly, which means the options are growing and the prices are dropping (but only a little tiny bit). There were twice as many materials handling vendors this year as there were two years ago.
(2) Scheduling software has taken a few positive steps forward in the past couple of years. We’ve been keeping an eye on this market for some time, but very little has been developed to meet our needs. The software might be closer now than ever before! There are several players currently. I spent some time with this vendor: http://www.scheduline.com/
(3) My favorite cool gizmo of the entire conference is the “cone of silence” by Interface Electronics. It is a clear, plastic, inverted dish with a very special speaker inside. When a customer stands under it, they can hear, with great clarity and volume, everything being played through the speaker. It can be connected to any device that plays sound (CD listening station, Public PC, Kids PC, etc). When you step just a foot (yet, just one foot) outside of the space under the cone, there is dead silence. No sound escapes at all. Imagine what this could do for listening stations in the AV division? Imagine what this could do in a teen space? Imagine a library with no more ear bud head phone problems! :)
The 21st Century Library: It Looks A Lot Like Gumby
That's right - brightly colored and really flexible.
So says Kim Bolan, a.k.a. theindielibrarian, and her pals from the Kent District Library and the Cleveland Heights/University Heights Public Library. I caught their Thursday AM presentation that was so popular that they had to lock the doors!
The Top Ten List of library features requested by customers:
1. A community partner. A welcoming environment for all, including non-traditional users.
2. Comfortable spaces. Think of your living room... well, maybe a friend's really bright and colorful living room.
3. Meeting rooms. Flexible spaces for groups (weddings, parties, concerts, even funerals!) draw non-borrowers to the library - an opportunity to create more wildly enthusiastic customers!. Also plenty of space for quiet study.
4. Supported self-service. Including self-check, print mgmt., and small proactive ref desks. Help needs to be near by.
5. Food service. From vending machines to shi-shi cafes: "if you feed them, they will come".
6. Multi-functional children's spaces. Sectioned areas focusing on the needs of sub-groups in the birth to age 12 group. Totally configurable.
7. Retail oriented merchandizing. Face-outs, power walls, etc.
8. Technology. Should be used to maximize human interaction. Good technology is nearly invisible (that's a big challenge).
9. Good way-finding. Signs that are large, clear, and not jargon-y. Ex: service desk not circulation desk.
10. Sustainable environments. The greening of libraries.
The presentation got me jazzed up because the Main Library remodeling project is very much on my mind, but it also got me thinking: considering each point, where is CML on the continuum from fuddy-duddy to ultra-modern? Decide for yourself.
There was much more to the program, but it focused on micro-issues such as "have lamps? Put them near electric outlets" or using checklists when planning spaces.
The PPTs from the program, which were loaded with great photos, will be posted on theindielibrarian; Kim's says it'll take a coule of weeks because she's getting married on Saturday. Lame.
So says Kim Bolan, a.k.a. theindielibrarian, and her pals from the Kent District Library and the Cleveland Heights/University Heights Public Library. I caught their Thursday AM presentation that was so popular that they had to lock the doors!
The Top Ten List of library features requested by customers:
1. A community partner. A welcoming environment for all, including non-traditional users.
2. Comfortable spaces. Think of your living room... well, maybe a friend's really bright and colorful living room.
3. Meeting rooms. Flexible spaces for groups (weddings, parties, concerts, even funerals!) draw non-borrowers to the library - an opportunity to create more wildly enthusiastic customers!. Also plenty of space for quiet study.
4. Supported self-service. Including self-check, print mgmt., and small proactive ref desks. Help needs to be near by.
5. Food service. From vending machines to shi-shi cafes: "if you feed them, they will come".
6. Multi-functional children's spaces. Sectioned areas focusing on the needs of sub-groups in the birth to age 12 group. Totally configurable.
7. Retail oriented merchandizing. Face-outs, power walls, etc.
8. Technology. Should be used to maximize human interaction. Good technology is nearly invisible (that's a big challenge).
9. Good way-finding. Signs that are large, clear, and not jargon-y. Ex: service desk not circulation desk.
10. Sustainable environments. The greening of libraries.
The presentation got me jazzed up because the Main Library remodeling project is very much on my mind, but it also got me thinking: considering each point, where is CML on the continuum from fuddy-duddy to ultra-modern? Decide for yourself.
There was much more to the program, but it focused on micro-issues such as "have lamps? Put them near electric outlets" or using checklists when planning spaces.
The PPTs from the program, which were loaded with great photos, will be posted on theindielibrarian; Kim's says it'll take a coule of weeks because she's getting married on Saturday. Lame.
Todd Rocks to a packed room!
Todd (and me as his lacky) did his Talk Table today called "The Parents Aren't Complaining, but . . . ." about objectively evaluating storytimes, even if you've never been a Youth Services person. I tell ya, I thought this would be popular, but even I underestimated the vast need! The room was set up for about 40 people, but we very quickly realized there wouldn't be enough chairs. 2 women from the Program Committee and someone from the Convention Center tried to help me score some more chairs, but after I'd taken as many as possible from the room next door, we just had to have people sit on the floor . . . and they just kept coming!
Todd did a great job talking about the evaluation sheet he uses and the way we handle storytimes, kits, and keep folks accountable for upholding the CML standard with evaluations . . . and about the orientation program. They were spellbound! Even with 70+ people in that little room, no one was looking at their watch. He could have gone on with questions and discussion for a long time. Great job, Todd!
Todd did a great job talking about the evaluation sheet he uses and the way we handle storytimes, kits, and keep folks accountable for upholding the CML standard with evaluations . . . and about the orientation program. They were spellbound! Even with 70+ people in that little room, no one was looking at their watch. He could have gone on with questions and discussion for a long time. Great job, Todd!After that, he and I hobbled down to the Exhibits so we could get a photo with Gene and Bill, who do the UNSHELVED comics. They are so much fun! I chatted with them a bit this morning, and it was great talking to them.
You all know what a huge fan I am of CPI . . .and in the last couple months I've seen a whole series of strips that have been excellent about security, etc, and it has seemed like they've been reading my mind. Well, guess what - Gene is a certified CPI trainer, too! Who'da thunk it? I knew I liked those guys! Bill is on the left, then Todd, me and Gene.Carnegie with a Yak
Wow - that opening session with John Wood was awe-inspiring! Founder of Room to Read and author of Leaving Microsoft to Change the Word, Wood was an energetic and inspiring speaker. His goal is to reach 10 million children with the gift of lifelong education by 2020. Talk about a BHAG! His mission is for the needy of the 3rd world, but I feel like we can learn alot from his drive and philosophy as we strive to serve people in poverty in the US.
Points I gleaned:
He strives to have "the heart of Mother Theresa and the scaleability of Starbucks"
- Education is a hand up, not a hand out.
- Involve local people, especially parents, to increase the likelyhood that your work will continue after you've moved on. You can only help people who want to help themselves. Didn't we just hear this at the Bridges Out of Poverty workshops?
- Literacy is a long-arc proposition
- We need to find a way to get beyond the "they should do something about that" mentality.
- Have an intense focus on results - GSD - Get . . . you know . . . Stuff Done - what gets measured gets done
- Dream big - go big or go back home
Oh, and did I mention how great a job he does at telling the story? The story of mothers walking down a 2 mile mountain to carry 110 bags of concrete on their backs. Stories of children mashing the "stage" when he opened the boxes of books. Stories of children who are helping to write some of the very first pictures book (ever!) in their local language.
Leaves me thinking "Daddy, will you help me buy a yak?" But seriously, I think our yak is our service, and with nearly 73% of Cols City School children on free or reduced lunch, we have our own huge gulf to cross (and sometimes our own rickety bridges). Of course, those of you who know me know that I have a lot of BHAGs, and thankfully they seem to align with our TP - raise the literacy level of the neighborhood being my biggest and haggiest.
And what about the Big Hairy Audacious Questions? Here are mine:
- What can we do to really get our local parents or teachers or community leaders involved in leading Ready to Read workshops?
- What barriers do we still have that keep us from GSDing, and how do we break them down?
- And, because it's been a long day and I didn't really get much dinner, when is my delivery guy going to arrive with my Mostaccioli?
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
3M Leadership Institute
Hi All- Yesterday I had the absolute pleasure of attending the 3M Leadership Institute. I was lucky enough to be selected to attend (it was an application process) 100 library folk from around the US and Canada were in attendance. The focus, Leadership Development. I took at least 13 pages of notes! In that are a few "bumper stickers" I will share. We are supposed to receive the entire PowerPoint presentation via email soon. I will post it when I receive.
- Good leadership produces dramatic results, innovation, and creativity.
- Leaders develop leaders.
- Leadership is an Art, Management is a Science. Both are necessary and neither are sufficient one their own to be successful in today's dynamic environments.
- Management is the process of organizing things for effective and efficient completion of objectives... Managers are the master planners. Leadership is the energetic process that causes followers to change. Leaders are the catalyst in the change reaction.
- Leadership is less about what you have; it's what you do with what you have.
- All humans can learn to be leaders.
- Quote from Dr. Fred Palensky, Chief Technical Officer 3M.... "In today's world you have to be a specialist AND a generalist....."
- Those that lead libraries need to be engaged and build relationships with all key stakeholders (staff, customers, donors, board, affinity groups, politicians, etc...). Think 3 cups of tea. Sit down and have 3 cups of tea with someone; they all don't have to be in the same sitting.
More Pictures.... http://www.flickr.com/photos/25048364@N03/sets/72157604266128717/
Minneapolis Central Library Photos
Here is a link to Flickr for some more photos from the Minneapolis Central Library
http://www.flickr.com/photos/25037322@N02/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/25037322@N02/
Minneapolis Central Library
Wow! Is all I can say. I spend a great deal of time in the Minneapolis Central Library yesterday. I loved the design and the space layouts. New materials for each division were displayed in the division on low shelving that allowed a lot of face out shelving. The Children's area had a glass enclosed room designated for folklore and fairy tales. Nice idea! The teen area was off by itself, glass enclosed, deep red walls with awesome shelving and totally packed. They have closed stacks with study tables available for those using items. Very quiet in this area. Also, lots of tables for folks to spread out and work from. I will try and upload some pictures. Not a lot of staff floating around, but those I saw were very friendly and made it a point to greet hte customers. The Central Library is closed on Sundays and Mondays. Oh, one other thing I noticed...security officers were in plain clothes and while I was there they made a call for the detox police van (yes, a unit solely dedicated to handling folks who had too much to drink) and it arrived within 5 minutes to remove the customer.
quick post
My contribution will be short here. A) because my time at pla is limited to 24 hours. (too much going on at cml). B) i'm doing this sans laptop. (don't want to have to lug it around the exhibit hall).
Anyway, have a good conference everyone! Hope to see you around the exhibit hall thursday.
Ps: it was a killer to write and post this from my blackberry. My thumb is tired. :)
Anyway, have a good conference everyone! Hope to see you around the exhibit hall thursday.
Ps: it was a killer to write and post this from my blackberry. My thumb is tired. :)
Jane Eyre
For all those who are interested, let's have dinner at the Embassy Suites hotel where a bunch of us are staying at around 5:30. The play starts at 7:30, so that will give us plenty of time to get dinner and get there. Anyone not going to the show who wants to join us is more than welcome, too of course!
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
I have arrived!
After boarding a very small plane (I prefer them actually) I found that my seat was occupied by a 22 month old boy. Great, I thought. Toddler in Mom's lap, small plane, two hours, lots o fun. He slept the whole way! No diaper change necessary, even better. ;-) Sandee was across the aisle from me. We chatted the whole way. It was great to reconnect. Many moons ago we sat next to each other in the CFD.
Took the light rail from the airport. I wish Columbus would get with it. Checked in at the hotel and had lunch with Cathy. I just have to say that VPN access rocks!! Thanks IT!
Took the light rail from the airport. I wish Columbus would get with it. Checked in at the hotel and had lunch with Cathy. I just have to say that VPN access rocks!! Thanks IT!
Just Got In!
After a very uneventful flight, lunch with Todd and fiddling around (with a call to the help desk to get them to turn my webmail back on!), I'm finally in the blog - yay me!
I've been making contacts with some knitters through Ravelry.com who are here for the conference, and will be dining w/them this evening. We're to meet at the Convention Center at 5:30, if anyone wants to join us. I'll probably check in while I'm down there (and get a little knitting done while I wait - or maybe blog a bit more). I'm also signed up to be an official PLA blogger this week, so I'll be working on that, too. You all may see some repetition in my posting between here and there, but I'm sure there will be "value-added" posts here, as far as CML goes.
Also, I've been thinking - wouldn't it be cool to share this blog with all of CML, even now? That way if someone else has a question or something, we can follow up while we're here as much as possible.
Monday, March 24, 2008
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