Idaho Commission for Libraries

If you haven't attended WebJunction's "Latinos and Public Library Perceptions Report - November 2008 Webinar", check it out at: http://www.webjunction.org/slo-webinars/articles/content/30106393

It contains lots of interesting facts about how latinos perceive (and use) their local public libraries. The most intriquing fact to me:

Of all the factors that influence use of the public library, the most important one is how friendly and welcoming the staff is. Staff attitude is more important than having Spanish language materials in the collection or even their ability to speak Spanish. But what's surprising about that? No matter how good the food is in a restaurant, I won't return if I don't feel comfortable.

Listen to "Thinking Outloud" discussions between George Needham, Vice President, Member Services at OCLC, and Joan Frye Williams, a futurist and Information Technology Consultant, as they mull over hot topics within librarianship.

Author: Toor, Ruth, 1933-
Title: New on the job : a school library media specialist’s guide to success / Ruth Toor and Hilda K. Weisburg.
Publisher: Chicago : American Library Association, 2007.

New on the Job is recommended by OPL Newsletter (One-Person Library) as a great tool for the new person on the job or if you just want to revitalize your thinking about your job!

If you have two minutes, please participate in a five question survey about our new website...even if you haven't visited it!

We'll use your responses to figure out what we are doing right and what we could improve upon.

Thanks!

Deadline: November 20, 2008

The NEA Foundation in collaboration with the National Education Association is accepting applications for Books Across America Library Books Awards. The program will make awards of $1,000 each to public schools working to provide economically disadvantaged students with new books in their school libraries.

ICFL is collaborating with three other states (California, Oregon and Washington) to construct a grant request for consideration by the Laura Bush Foundation to support a year-long fellowship to explore new models for developing library relationships with Boomers and to identify methods in which libraries can engage effectively with the local Boomer population.

I’m a big fan of Ada Community’s Express Service. Today I got to vote at my regular polling place and then pick up my books in the same trip. Too cool! I use the service all the time. One of the drop off / pick up return stations is within walking distance of my home, so I can walk the dogs, burn some calories, and pick up my books in the same trip.

Many of you have taken advantage of the SkillSoft and University of North Texas Le@D Courses through the private catalog which you find once you register and sign in with WebJunction Idaho.

“Site visits to 63 public libraries reveal the power of technology on staff and users.”

I just read an article in the October 2008 issue of American Libraries titled “Libraries Connect Communities.” Authors Peggy Barber and Linda Wallace share what they learned as part of the team conducting the Public Library Funding and Technology Access Study.

The study included a nationwide survey of libraries (the 2008 survey is underway now); focus groups with library employees, trustees, and users; and library site visits.

And apply today to attend the March 8, 9 & 10 in-service designed for you and your key-players. Like last year, the in-service will focus on your critical contributions to student achievement in the context of 21st Century Skills.

Go ahead and dare to dream of the luxuries waiting for you in Idaho Falls...