Wednesday, December 23, 2009

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Just wanted to wish all the Library Assistants a very Merry Christmas (Happy Hanukkah for those it applies) and a very Happy New Year as well.

The PLS office will be closed on Thursday, December 24 & Friday, December 25th.
as well as - Friday, January 1st.

Stay safe and healthy!
Heidi

Monday, December 21, 2009

Roller Derby and Dewey Decimals

Great article on CNN about a librarian who is a roller derby girl.
Check it out!
What do you do on your off time from the library?

http://www.cnn.com/2009/LIVING/08/31/roller.derby.librarian/index.html#cnnSTCText

Thursday, December 17, 2009

New RRLC Library Assistants Schedule

Did you know there is a Library Assistants Group in the Rochester area?
This group meets four times a year at the RRLC office, located in Fairport, NY.
We are a core group of people who discuss workshop ideas, community service and Library Assistant opportunities on a state and national level.
We would love to see new people attend these meetings.

For 2010, two out of the four meetings will be held in the evening. Each meeting last no longer than 2 hours. Some meetings are about an hour and a half.
Please note the times for each meeting date.

Tuesday, February 9th - 9:15am start time
Monday, May 10th - 5:30pm start time
Monday, Sept. 13th - 5:30pm start time
Tuesday, Dec. 7th - 9:15am start time

Wednesday, November 25, 2009

Thanksgiving time

It's that time of the year when we all reflect on the things in life that we are thankful for.
Thinking about libraries.........
What are you thankful for?
Post your answer so we can all enjoy!

Happy Thanksgiving!

Here is a funny from years past

I came across this during one of our moves in the office.
It's a radio spot announcement from 1967. Yes, I did type that correct - 1967!
Check it out - it's amazing how far libraries have come in 42 years!!!

"Today I have something special for all of you who are still in your teens. All the keen teens are asking for the Seventeen Book of Etiquette and Entertaining at their public library. As a girl, do you know how to refuse a boy a date so he'll ask again? Are there certain mannerisms that annoy boys? And who thanks whom for a date? Remember a smart girl has to cultivate the art of saying no. The Seventeen Book of Etiquette has many helpful hints to help you get along successfully in a job, too. There's just everything about parties, food, fun, games, table settings, what to say from the first invitation to the last good bye. Ask your librarian to let you borrow the Seventeen Book of Etiquette. Now fellows, don't go away, you haven't been left out of this. There is a very handy book entitled Plain Talk for Men Under 21. If you think that clothes make the man, you're right, and Plain Talk shows you how to go about selecting them. Plain Talk has advice on how to choose a gift for a girl, how to get a date and how to treat her, how to manage a big production date for that special occasion. Plain Talk also talks about getting a job, going to college, and getting married. Race over to your public library and ask the librarian to get Plain Talk for Men under 21 for you."

Thursday, November 12, 2009

RSI

The Vancouver Public Library Health & Safety Committee wanted to replace a dry PowerPoint presentation with a more entertaining way to train employees about repetitive strain injury prevention. Comic Twist Productions to the rescue! We adapted their material into a funny, cop-show-style script. Cast entirely with VPL employees, RSI PATROL not only educates workers but highlights their talents - even the music is by an employee.

GREAT job!!

http://vimeo.com/6516147

Tuesday, November 10, 2009

SilverSprings Manager position available

The Town of Gainesville Public Library is currently accepting
resumes for the position of Library Manager. The library is located in
Silver Springs, providing library services to the residents of the town
of Gainesville in Wyoming County. It is a member of the Pioneer Library
System The library serves a community of 2333 people and is open 20
hours, 5 days a week with an annual budget of $53,000 and a staff of
two.Is has an annual circulation of 11,000. The collection of 12,000
items is fully automated and the library has 5 public access computers.

Please send a letter of application and a resume with 3 references to
Town of Gainesville Public Library, 10 Church Street, PO Box 321, Silver
Springs, NY 14550-0321.

This is a 24 hour/week position consisting of day, evening and
weekend hours.

The library manager is responsible for carrying out library
functions and administrative tasks. This includes, among other duties,
hiring and supervision of a part time clerk, oversight of building
maintenance and repairs, planning and carrying out library programs,
ordering materials, providing reference services, library technology
management, grant writing, community relations, preparing budget for
board approval and evaluating the effectiveness of library services The
Director also is expected to attend continuing education workshops and
professional meetings.

Minimum qualification for the job is a high school diploma. Library
experience and keyboarding skills are preferred.

Salary for this position will be determined on education and experience,
with a starting base of $10.00 per hour.

Applications will be accepted from interested, qualified persons until
December 4, 2009.

Monday, November 9, 2009

Job Opportunity - Law Library clerk needed

Appellate Division, Fourth Department

Employment Announcement

ANNOUNCEMENT NUMBER 54911

TITLE OF POSITION: Law Library Clerk - Part Time

LOCATION: Appellate Division Fourth Department, Law Library

50 East Ave., Suite 100, Rochester, NY 14604

BASE SALARY: $13.00/per hour/3 hours per week (without benefits)

CLASSIFICATION: NON-COMPETITIVE-TEMPORARY

QUALIFICATIONS: High school diploma or the equivalent, and two (2) years of clerical experience in a library.

Preference will be given to individuals with experience with the library’s automated circulation system. While these are minimum qualifications, consideration may be given to education or experience directly related to the assignment.

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE JOB:

Law Library Clerks perform a variety of clerical duties in a law library which may also include the lead responsibility of a library with limited scope or subject specialization that serves five (5) or more full-time (or the equivalent) judges, law clerks, and court attorneys. Law Library Clerks also perform other related duties.

ASSIGNMENT: The primary duty is to staff the circulation desk for a 5:00 PM -8:00 PM Thursday evening shift. As part of those duties the candidate will check out books to patrons, collect overdue fines, shelve books, loose leaf filing and trouble shoot photocopiers, computers and printers.

GENERAL INFORMATION: The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by persons assigned to this title. They do not include all job duties performed by employees in the title, and every position does not necessarily require these duties. Although positions may be available and situated at a specific location, the appointee may be subject to reassignment to any position in the same title in this promotion unit dependent upon the needs of the Unified Court System. All applications received from this announcement may be used to fill any vacancies in this title that may occur in this court or agency within the next three (3) months. Special arrangements for the disabled may be made

by contacting the Appellate Division, 4 Dept., Human Resources Unit at (585) 530-3104 prior to the interview. Position(s) available at the present time: one (1).

APPLICATION PROCEDURES: All interested persons meeting the minimum qualifications are encouraged to submit a UCS-5 Application for Employment form (obtainable from any administrative office in a court building or the web http://www.nycourts.gov/careers/UCS5.pdf) and/or a resume to:

BETSY VIPPERMAN

APPELLATE DIVISION LAW LIBRARY

50 EAST AVE., SUITE 100

ROCHESTER, NY 14604

Applicants are encouraged to complete the EEO Data Collection form UCS-19X.

POSTING DATE: APPLICATIONS MUST BE POSTMARKED OR RECEIVED BY:

November 4, 2009 November 30, 2009

THE NEW YORK STATE UNIFIED COURT SYSTEM IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER.

WOMEN, MINORITIES AND INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES ARE ENCOURAGED TO APP

Friday, November 6, 2009

DVD cases available

Hello! We have about 700 non-locking DVD cases and 100 non-locking CD jewel cases for anyone who may be interested. The DVD cases are black, some for single and some for double DVDs. They are kind of like the ones at this link: http://www.gaylord.com/adblock.asp?abid=6342&search_by=desc&search_for=dvd%20cases&mpc=WW

The jewel cases are just regular, clear plastic CD jewel cases. Please let me know via phone or email if you are interested in some or all of these items and we can work out a way to get them to you.

Thanks!

Deena

Deena Lipomi

Circulation & Young Adult Services Librarian

Brighton Memorial Library

dlipomi@libraryweb.org

585-784-5342

Wednesday, November 4, 2009

College opportunities

The Department of Library and Information Studies at SUNY’s University at Buffalo
is pleased to announce the initiation of an MLS online degree program, with
courses beginning in fall 2010. The MLS degree program is accredited by the
American Library Association. The online program was developed to serve the needs
of off-campus students preparing to enter public, academic, and special
libraries--with an emphasis on reference services. Students will be part of a
24-student cohort and will enroll in two courses each semester, and one course in
each of two summer sessions, for a total of six courses each year. They will
follow a prescribed program of study, but have the option to substitute up to two
three-credit courses from Buffalo's MLS course offerings for any of the online
program courses (with the exception of the Department’s required core courses).
Students accepted into the program should plan to complete the 36-semester
hours-degree in Master of Library Science in two years. Faculty in the department
and well-qualified, experienced practitioners will teach the courses. Prospective
students are encouraged to apply early since there are only 24 spaces. For more
information on the program go to http://gse.buffalo.edu/online/mls


Kay Bishop, Associate Professor
Graduate School of Education
Department of Library and Information Studies
534 Baldy Hall
University of Buffalo
Buffalo, NY 14260-1020
E-mail: kgbishop@buffalo.edu
Fax: (716) 645-3775

Certificate of Achievement program

Certificate of Achievement
UPDATE

THIS IS IT!!! NOW IS THE TIME!!!!

The Certificate of Achievement Review Board wants your packets
UNFINISHED. That's right. UNFINISHED.

This is an opportunity that no one else has ever had before. The Review Board is willing to review your packet as it stands right now. We will review and give you feedback on what it will take to finish your packet. You may be surprised to find you are closer than you think! With our guidance, you should be able to complete your packet by April 30 giving you the opportunity to receive your certificate at the June Conference.

The deadline is set for January 31, 2010.

Please email me at dot@lpl.org and let me know when you are ready to put your packet in the mail. COPIES ONLY PLEASE.

Email me and we can discuss the details of shipping your packet.

Give us a chance to help you!

Taken from Buddhist Philosopher Daisaku Ikeda on Attitude: "Everything begins with the resolve to take the first step. From that action, wisdom arises and change begins. Without action, nothing changes".

Dorothy Morgan
Administrator of Business and Personnel
Liverpool Public Library
310 Tulip Street
Liverpool, NY 13088
(315) 457-0310 x103
dot@lpl.org
Ambassador for NYSLAA

Tuesday, November 3, 2009

Fall support staff workshop

The PLS 2009 Fall Support Staff Workshop was held Friday, October 30th.
There were 33 people in attendance for this 1/2 day workshop. Each attendee received goodies from Brodart and The Library Supply Store.
The morning started off with introductions of all attendees, so many of us talk to each other on the phone but have never actually met. It's fun to put faces with names.
Our first presentation of the morning about Book Repair was given by Leah Hamilton. Ms. Hamilton is the General Collections Conservation Supervisor for the University of Rochester, Rush Rhees Library. This workshop provided cost effective strategies to maintaining book collections with quick and easy to learn techniques.
The second presentation of the day was about Advocacy and was presented by Kathy Miller, Director of the Rochester Regional Library Council and Jennifer Morris, Director of the Pioneer Library System. Ms. Miller is also currently the President of the New York Library Association and Ms. Morris is a former President of the New York Library Association. Their workshop was designed to help staff members develop advocacy skills and learn how to promote their libraries on a local and state level.
Everyone seemed to enjoy both presentations and were happy they attended.
Our last workshop of the day was an informal presentation given by Lorraine Lander regarding SUNY Empire State College. Ms. Lander gave people the opportunity to ask questions about this unique college experience.
Thank you to everyone who attended. If you have suggestions for workshops/presentations you would like to see given at a Support Staff Workshop, please let me know. I love to hear suggestions/request.

Wednesday, October 28, 2009

Library district director position available

Applications are now open for the position of Chemung County Library
District director. CCLD is the central library for Southern Tier. There
will be great opportunities in leading this recently-established special
district library with a solid history of public support. The position is
a Library Director IV competitive class Civil Service position and
successful candidates are required to score within the top 3 on a
training and experience Civil Service exam.

District Web site: http://www.steele.lib.ny.us/

Director’s Position announcement:
http://www.steele.lib.ny.us/Director_Announcement.htm

Monday, October 26, 2009

Library Journal Parapofessional of the year nominations

Paraprofessional of the Year Nomination Guidelines

Deadline: January 19, 2010

-- Library Journal, 3/13/2008

Library Journal will honor one support staffer with its 11th annual Paraprofessional of the Year award in its March 1, 2010, issue. Sponsored by Brodart Library Supplies & Furnishings, which underwrites the $1500 cash prize and a reception to honor the winner at the American Library Association conference in June, the award recognizes the essential role of paraprofessionals, now the largest constituency of library workers, in providing excellent library service. It places special emphasis on the efforts of the winner to further the role of paraprofessionals in the library profession. The winner will be profiled in the March 1 issue of LJ.

Nominating criteria

The criteria for LJ's Paraprofessional of the Year are excellence in performing their job, including contribution(s) enabling the library to best serve its constituents and/or its community (whether town, college/university, school, or corporation), the encouragement of reading and the use of the library's resources, a commitment to free access to information for all, and the candidate's work to build networks, organizations, and/or groups to back excellence in library work and new career paths for support staff, and improved communication and the breaking down of barriers between support staff and the MLS librarians with whom they work. Nominating letters should name the candidate and describe in 500 words or less why the nominee deserves the award. Supporting letters and accompanying material will be considered, but the nominating letter itself will be of prime importance.

Nominations may be emailed to miller@reedbusiness.com.

Nominations sent through regular mail should be addressed to:

Paraprofessional of the Year Award
c/o Library Journal
360 Park Avenue South.
New York, NY 10010.

Please note: the postmark deadline for all nominations is January 19, 2010

Training committee needs your help!

The Continuing Education and Training Committee needs your help! Please complete the 2010 CE & Training Needs Survey (link below) to helps us prioritize and plan upcoming CE & Training opportunities.

I am sending this message in plain text, so to best access this survey, open a web browser and copy and paste the URL into the browser's address bar.

http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=RY4WPbpp_2ffZ6o9k3vLrXXw_3d_3d

If you experience any problems, please let me know. Thank you for your time and effort!

Lindsay

Lindsay Stratton
ILS Training Coordinator
Pioneer Library System
2557 State Rte 21
Canandaigua, NY 14424

www.pls-net.org

Contact the Governor ASAP!

Dear Library Advocate, as you may know, the Governor has proposed mid-year budget cuts to close a $3 billion budget deficit. The proposal includes a 10% across the board cut to all state aid programs like Library Aid, which will result in a $3.3 million reduction in funding for library services. School Aid will be cut by 4.5%.

The proposed $3.3 million reduction in Library Aid is on top of the $8 million cut imposed back in April and the $3 million cut sustained last year. If the proposed cuts are approved, it will reduce Library Aid to $88 million or 1998 level of funding. With library usage continuing to increase and people of all ages depending on libraries to improve their literacy, computer and internet skills and the unemployed using libraries to search for new careers and employment, now is not the time for further cuts for library services.

I strongly urge you to contact your state legislators to ask them to reject the Governor’s proposed cuts. Libraries have already done their fair share towards reducing the state’s budget shortfalls, other alternatives need to be used before asking the library community to take further cuts. These proposed cuts impact all types of libraries and library systems, public, college, schools, etc.

Go to www.nyla.org and click on Library Advocate icon to send fax/email to your state legislators. Please pass this message on to other library advocates.

Michael J. Borges

Friday, October 23, 2009

Fun next Friday

I'm starting to get some fun goodies to give away next Friday.
I can't wait to see everyone at the Fall Support Staff Workshop!!

Wednesday, October 21, 2009

Fall workshop agenda

I have sent the Fall Support Staff workshop agenda out a few times in delivery but I thought I should also post it here.

9 - 9:15am - Arrive and place order for lunch if need be
9:15 - 9:30 - Announcements and introductions
9:30 - 10:30 - Book Repair (learn cost effective strategies to maintain the health of your collection, with quick, easy to learn, yet conservation-minded techniques.)
10:30 - 10:45 - Break
10:45 - 11:45 - Advocacy (develop your advocacy skills and learn how to promote your library on a local and state level)
Noon - 1pm - Lunch
Part Two
1- 2pm - Empire State College (A discussion about opportunities for undergraduate and graduate study at SUNY Empire State College.)

Tuesday, October 20, 2009

Add a comment or suggestion

Hello Everyone!
Gearing up for the Fall Support Staff Workshop, I thought I would try something new.

Answer the poll to the right of the postings.
or
Add a comment or suggestion to this post
and I'll put your name in a drawing to win something fun!
(make sure you put your first name and library name someplace on the post so I know who to put in for the drawing)
I'm trying to see how many people read this blog.

Thanks for your support!
Heidi

Help wanted

Posted on behalf of Penn Yan Public Library.

The Penn Yan Public Library, Penn Yan, NY, a school district public library in the Finger Lakes is seeking a Librarian to provide reference service and adult programming. The library offers a competitive salary and benefits package.

A Master’s Degree in Library Science and a NYS Librarian’s Professional certificate are required.

Applications are available online at the Yates County Personnel Office, www.yatescounty.org. and must be submitted to the Yates County Personnel Department and include a $15 exam filing fee.

Questions about the position may be submitted to Lynn Overgaard at (315) 536-6114 or lhovergaard@pypl.org.

Applications are due by December 1, 2009.

Monday, October 19, 2009

National Save for Retirement Week

This week is National Save for Retirement Week.
In 2009, the House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate unanimously approved resolutions designating October 18-24 as National Save for Retirement Week.
The resolutions seek to increase financial literacy and raise public awareness of the retirement-savings vehicles available to all workers.
Research shows that more than half of all workers in the United States, 53 percent, have less than $25,000 in total savings and investments, excluding their home and defined benefit plans (pensions).
With longer life expectancies and rising costs, especially for health care, it is critical that Americans understand the importance of saving for their future - now.

Sunday, October 18, 2009

Help wanted

Classifieds from Victor Herald
Wednesday, October 14, 2009

Library manager:
Allen's Hill Library is seeking a library manager for 12 hours a week.
Skills required include grant writing, organization, technical and basic library skills, and advocacy, along with the ability to relate to the public. Salary is limited.
For more information call 585-229-5636.

Wednesday, October 14, 2009

Heading to NYLA

I'm heading to the 2009 NYLA conference tomorrow.
I hope to come back with lots of new information to share with all of you.

I'll post again next week!
Thanks,
Heidi

Dewey discussion

Have you heard the chatter about doing away with Dewey classification.
There is a great article in October issue of Library Journal.
The article is titled - The Dewey Dilemma
written by Barbara Fister.

If you library doesn't get Library Journal and you would like to see a copy of this article, please let me know.
Then I would love to hear your thoughts on this.

Monday, October 5, 2009

Hurry, hurry, hurry

Hurry, hurry, hurry!!! There is only 1 week remaining for you to contribute your favorite recipes to be included in the NYSLAA cookbook.

Remember-this is a fundraiser to help offset some of the costs of the 2010 conference to be held in Corning. We want to be able to keep the registration costs low so that more libraries can afford to send their library assistants (YOU!) to attend this annual opportunity for continuing education and networking.

We thank all of you who have submitted recipes so far, but unfortunately we have collected only 39 recipes, not nearly what we had been hoping to receive. If we don't collect enough recipes, we won't do the cookbook, which means the conference will cost you more $$$.

Please help us out by either
emailing your recipes to blisskl@cmog.org<mailto:blisskl@cmog.org<mailto:blisskl@cmog.org<mailto:blisskl@cmog.org>> or
entering them in yourself at www.typensave.com<http://www.typensave.com<http://www.typensave.com<http://www.typensave.com>>, typing [your name] in the Contributor box, rakowcookbook in the Group Login box and d6jmf in the Password box.

We need all kinds of recipes in the following categories: Appetizers & beverages; Soups & salads; Vegetables & side dishes; Main dishes; Breads & rolls; Desserts; Cookies & candy; This & that.

DEADLINE: Oct. 9, 2009 (But please don't wait until the 9th! We need to submit our compilation to the publisher no later than October 14 in order to have the finished cookbooks back in time for Christmas)

We hope to hear from you soon!

The 2010 NYSLAA Conference Planning Committee from The Rakow Research Library of The Corning Museum of Glass.

Even better to read

And this is the reason why we should have books on our shelves!

http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=113357239

Wow.....very powerful moving story.

Great article to read

I have a great article for everyone to read / check out.

http://www.schoollibraryjournal.com/article/CA6699099.html

I would love to have your thoughts and/or opinions on this subject.

Thursday, October 1, 2009

Have you signed up yet?

The Fall Support Staff Workshop is later this month.
Have you signed up yet? Currently we have 21 people signed up at attend.
This years workshop has two different parts to it.
Part one is from 9:15 - Noon and it covers, Book Repair and Advocacy.
Part two is after lunch and is a workshop about Empire State College.

Now - let me guess.....You don't think you need to hear about advocacy - right?
Well - I would have to disagree.
Libraries are in need of positive energy 100% of the time.
If you work in a library - then you need to be advocating for libraries.
Libraries are a great community access that need to be promoted as much as possible.
Plan on attending and learning how you can improve your skills from two local experts.

Support Staff workshops are great opportunity to meet other support staff from the libraries within the Pioneer Library System.
Sign up today on the PLS calendar of events!

Monday, September 28, 2009

NYSLAA list serv

I'm not sure how many of you are NYSLAA (New York State Library Assistants' Assocation) members, or if you are, how many of you subscribe to the NYSLAA list serv.
The past week as been a very active week on the NYSLAA list serv.
The discussion has been about getting new people to run for office.
An organization is only as good as the people who are running it.
It's been a very lively group to listen to. People are very passionate about NYSLAA.
A suggestion was made to have virtual meetings. This would make it easier for the members of the Executive council to attend meetings. Or atleast that is someone of the members thoughts.

Anyone who is a member of NYSLAA can be nominated for a council seat.
If you are interested in running for office, please let me know.
Nominations are due soon!

Wednesday, September 23, 2009

Banned book week

Just a reminder ~

Banned Books Week ~Celebrating the Freedom to Read

Banned Books Week starts September 26 (Saturday) and runs until October 3 (Saturday).


Tuesday, September 22, 2009

Recipes wanted!

Wanted!!
Your favorite recipes

The 2010 NYSLAA conference planning committee in Corning, NY wants to do a NYSLAA cookbook to raise funds that will help to LOWER the registration cost of the conference, but they need your help!

They need all kinds of recipes from NYSLAA members in the following categories:
  • Appetizers & beverages
  • Soups & salads
  • Vegetables & side dishes
  • Main dishes
  • Breads & Rolls
  • Desserts
  • Cookies & candy
  • This & That
  • Heart Healthy
  • Sugar-Free
  • Gluten-Free
They plan to have the cookbooks back in time for Christmas so please send on or two of your favorite recipes ASAP to blisskl@cmog.org by October 9th.

Not a NYSLAA member??? Sign up today!

Thanks in advance for your help!

Monday, September 21, 2009

NYSLAA nominations

It is not too late to send in a nomination for NYSLAA Elections, nominations must be received by Sept. 30, 2009. The information is in the newsletter which you will be receiving this week (apologies for the delay due to a printing gliche) and on our webpage. The form in on the web at <http://nyslaa.org/nominations.html> The pdf form is linked from that page at the bottom.
  • RUN FOR AN OFFICE. (President, Treasurer and Corresponding Secretary are the offices that are being voted on this year. Joy Piper is definitely not going to run for President and we will need to replace her, no matter what!)
  • NOMINATE A COLLEAGUE.
  • GET INVOLVED.
I look forward to hearing from you and seeing some new folks stepping forward to keep NYSLAA the vital organization it is! It is up to all of us!
Coleen Hopkins
NYSLAA Recording Secretary

Thursday, September 17, 2009

September 2009 is library card sign up month

September is Library Card Sign-up Month

September is Library Card Sign-up Month–a time when the American Library Association and libraries across the country remind parents that a library card is the most important school supply of all.
Libraries play an important role in the education and development of children.
Studies show that children who are read to in the home and who use the library perform better in school and are more likely to continue to use the library as a source of lifetime learning.
Library cards are generally free to those living in the library's service area. In most cases, borrowing privileges are granted on the spot. Some libraries may require some form of identification, proof of residency or the signature of a guardian.


Involve me, and I'll understand.

I love this saying and I think it applies to all of us in so many different ways!

Tell me and I'll forget.
Show me,and I may not remember.
Involve me, and I'll understand.

(Old Native American proverb)

Remember to include people (co-workers, directors, patrons, everyone) in your daily work at the library!

Wednesday, September 16, 2009

Thank you!

A Big Thank you to everyone who attended the Holdings User Group meeting today.
We had a great turn out with lots of GREAT questions!
If you missed the meeting and would like a copy of the handouts, please let me know.

Heidi

Thursday, September 10, 2009

A funny - everyone needs to laugh

At the 2009 NYSLAA conference, our keynote speaker was someone by the name of Anne Bryan Smollin. Anne is also a Sister of St. Joseph.
Sister Anne's biggest message all of us was - Live Well, Love Much and Laugh often.
Everyone should have a "laughing buddy".
So with that in mind - Let me give all of you a few good laughs.
These were taken from "Funny You Should Ask" - Real-life questions from the reference desk.

"Do you have a copy of tomorrow's newspaper? I need to get a current event article out of it"
Taken by virginia N. Shannon - Carrollton, TX

We had a "banned books display" at our university. A student came to the reference desk and asked "Are these books just banned in this library or in all libraries?"
Taken by Ken Cunselman - York College, York, NE

Do you have that book by Les Miserables?
Taken by Renee Reed, Indianapolis, IN

Do you have any information on Edgar Allen Pooh?
Taken by - Janet Kent, Victoria, TX

Hope everyone got a good laugh today!

Thursday, September 3, 2009

Did you hear about the tattooed Texas Librarians?

I was reading 'Library Hotline' a few weeks ago and came across an article about Texas librarians.
The article stated that The Texas Library Association (TLA) has done a fun fundraising activity. This fundraiser is for the TLA disaster relief fund. The calendar showcases 21 librarians with tattooed art. The idea was to break down the stereotypes about librarians.
Personally - I think it's a great idea. It's a way to show that Librarians are real people who have many different tastes. You go Texas!
How many library assistants in the PLS area have tattoos?

Friday, August 21, 2009

Interesting library news

I'm not sure how many people use Facebook or other social networks but I would strongly recommend you do if you would like some interesting library information.
I do belong to Facebook and one of the groups I am a 'Fan' of is ALA. Yes, even the American Library Association has a Facebook page.
I was reading some of the ALA links and come across a great article. It's actually out of the Associated Press but the link came from ALA.
The article is about a Librarian who lived in Los Angeles.
The title of the article is -
Priceless black cultural artifacts to go on exhibit. Late librarian and mom spent her life collecting carefully selected items.
Check it out and let me know what you think.
Her family is, and should be, very proud of her!!

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/32499907/ns/entertainment-arts_books_more/

Monday, August 17, 2009

Glen Iris 5k

Hi Everyone!

September 12th is the 14th annual Glen Iris 5k in Letchworth State Park.
This 5k event (alittle over 3 miles) is a benefit event for the Castile Public Library.
Castile is one of the 42 public libraries that the Pioneer Library System provides service for.

Registration fee is only $18 if you register by August 31st.
Registration fees include a T-shirt and a box lunch from the Glen Iris Inn.
Prizes are awarded in many different categories. Prizes include Cash!!

For more information check out www.castile.pls-net.org and click on the link for the Glen Iris 5k.

Thanks!
Heidi

Monday, July 20, 2009

3rd Annual Central New York Library Assistants Day

Save the date! The 3rd annual Library Assistants Day will be held November 3, 2009 at the Holiday Inn Carrier Circle in Syracuse.

The conference brochure is attached. For those who like to plan ahead, registration is already open at http://www.clrc.org/wrf/

Tuesday, July 14, 2009

Political winners and sinners of the year

From Library Hotline -

Library Journal is looking for political good guys and bad guys in your area.
Every locale has it's angels and demons, and Library Journal wants to hear about the political good guys and bad guys in your area (local/statewide/national) ; the ones who savvily worked to preempt cuts, helped with budget woes, defended challenged materials, or assisted any library initiatives, and those villains who fought you at every turn, seized your finances, or hamstrung your ability to serve the community.

We want to hear about both the Winners and the Sinners in your area. Please send nominations, including a description of the political issue and the actions taken by the key individual or group that either helped or hindered libraries, by August 5 to Rebecca Miller via email at miller@reedbusiness.com or by post to

Library Journal
360 Park Avenue South
New York, NY 10010
or by FAX at 646-746-6734.

Deadline is August 5.

Thursday, July 9, 2009

Job Opportunity

Part-Time Clerk
Part Time Job Opportunity in Geneseo

$8/hour
18.5 hours per week

Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays & Thursdays 5:15 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
Saturdays 9:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Applicants must enjoy working with the public.
Duties include: check-in and check-out of library materials, answer phone, assist patrons, issue library cards, other duties as assigned.
Send cover letter, resume, and list of three references to:
Anna Grace, Library Director
Wadsworth Library
24 Center Street
Geneseo, NY 14454

ALA Virtual Conference

This year ALA is offering a Virtual Conference, 10 interactive web sessions that will take place July 13–14 at the end of ALA Annual Conference. The programs were selected from offerings at Annual and are among the most interesting and relevant to libraries of all types. All full registrants to Annual Conference will have access to these sessions; those not attending in person can register for the Virtual Conference online through the ALA website.

Thursday, July 2, 2009

Preserving photographs and documents

~2009 NYSLAA conference report~
written by: Heidi Jensen, PLSHQ

Preserving Photographs and Documents
Presented by: Amy P. Rupert



Ms. Rupert taught Social Studies at the middle school level in central New York before pursuing graduate study in archival administration. She has been the Assistant Archivist at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute since 2002.

First I’m going to talk about photographs.

This class was interesting in the fact that it was about preserving the photographs and documents – not on restoring them.
Pictures that were taken before 1880 used something called long fibers to print the pictures on. It gives the picture a different texture. After 1890 – prints were made from pulp which contained acid.

Storing photos is important in trying to keep them for any length of time. Here are a few tips to remember –

  • Photographs should never be laminated.
  • They should not be stored in magnetic pages (remember the old photo albums that you pull the thin sheet of plastic up and the pictures just magically stay put). If you can’t get your pictures back off a magnetic page – try running dental floss between the picture and the album.
  • Light is not good for photographs.
  • Store photos in a photo safe box.
  • Don’t store in a basement (too damp)
  • Don’t store in an attic (too much heat)
  • Oils from your hands will damage the photos
  • Store photos on a metal shelf. Wood shelves give off chemical that can damage the photos.
  • Prints from the 60’s & 70’s will fade to nothing over time. Duplicate them to an acid free paper.
  • Don’t store in a PVC sleeve (the albums that have a plastic sleeve to slide your photo into)
  • Store photos that you wish to view between Millar that is acceptable for photographs.
  • Label all photos with names and dates. You do need to use a photo safe pen. Most inks do contain acid which will deteriorate your photograph.

This is a lot to remember when storing photos but your co-workers/ family will be thankful someday when they have beautiful quality photograph to look at.

The other part of this class was about preserving documents.

News print was never made to be saved. It was/is a temporary media. Don’t save newspaper clippings. If you wish to keep the information from the newspaper article – copies should be made. Another suggestion is to have the newspapers you are saving scanned and stored on microfilm.

Most of the tips used for photographs also apply to documents.


The last few minutes of the class were used to talk about digital files.
Everything needs a backup. You can use CD or DVD but even those don’t last forever. Another form of digital back up is – print. Print the items you need to keep long term.


Over all, I would say this was a great class. I will never look at photographs the same!

Wednesday, July 1, 2009

New York State Library and You

~2009 NYSLAA Conference Report~
Written by - Heidi Jensen, PLSHQ

New York State Library & You
Presented by - Sheldon Wein

Mr. Wein is the Senior Reference Librarian at the New York State Library and is in charge of Public Programming.

This workshop was very interesting. I didn’t realize that the New York State Library housed different artifacts.
Did you know that in 1911 there was a huge fire in the New York State Library? The Librarian, at the time, ran into the fire and grabbed as many historical items as he could.
Some of the items he took out and are STILL part of the New York Library Collection are - a hand gun used by George Washington and the original draft of the Emancipation Proclamation written in Abraham Lincoln’s handwriting. A copy of this draft can be viewed on-line from the NYS library website, http://www.nysl.nysed.gov. In the search field, type in Emancipation Proclamation and a copy of the draft comes up. It’s very interesting to look at.

We also learned about different reference items available on-line at the state library.
Some of which include, Old Regents exams - this gives students an opportunity to see the types of things that will be on a regent’s exam.

The State library has more to offer than I realized. I’m glad I decided to take this class and I’m excited to be able to use the State library more often.

Message from Dorothy Morgan

This is a message from Dorothy Morgan who is the NYSLAA Certificate of Achievement Chairperson AND on the President of the Library Assistants Round Table at ALA.


Do you want to be recognized for all of your accomplishments?

Do you want to feel even more valuable to the library you work at, as
well as most importantly to yourself?

How would you feel receiving a nationally acclaimed Certificate Of
Achievement from the New York State Library Assistants' Association
(NYSLAA), endorsed by the New York Library Association (NYLA), and
the State Librarian's Office? How about receiving congratulatory
letters from the Executive Director of NYLA, and the State Librarian
himself? How about knowing that your Director will get notification
that you accomplished this great program?

I could go on and on, but I believe you know how strongly I feel
about all the reasons why this is so critical for you to do and NOW
is the best time.

I'm pleased to report that I have been receiving several phone calls
with questions specific to the Certificate of Achievement Program and
feel that the Review Board will be put to the test in reviewing
several packets.

The CAP Review Board will be meeting in October. Will I receive
packets now that I can put on our Agenda?

Thank you and thank you for your dedication and commitment to this
most prestigious award.

Tuesday, June 30, 2009

Leadership and Management

2009 NYSLAA Conference Report
Submitted by: Heidi Jensen, PLSHQ

Leadership and Management Skills

Presented by: Evelyn Butrico


Ms Butrico is the Director of the East Greenbush Community Library in East Greenbush, New York. For several years, Ms. Butrico served as Program Development Librarian for NyLink.

In this workshop we discussed what is a Leader and what is a Manager. Are they the same thing or are they different?

At the moment there are 4 different types of workers.

Traditionalist (born pre-1946)
Baby Boomers (born 1946-1964)
Gen Xer’s (born 1965- 1977)
Generation Y (born 1978 – 1989)


Baby boomers make up for 41.5% of the work force, followed by Gen Xer’s at 29.5%, Generation Y at 22% and last, Traditionalist at 7%.

Each group views work ethics a little differently. Most of us have a lot of one type of work ethic in us but we can also have a little bit of a different type as well. This is usually because of our up bringing. Parents and Grandparents influence our view on work ethics.

So- What makes a good leader?
• Leaders are someone who can see the big picture.
• They should have integrity.
• Leaders must be trustworthy before others will follow them and they must also be able to admit when they make a mistake.
• Leaders can convey their ideas to diverse individuals and then adjust their style to meet the needs.
• Leaders are people who stir the pot, they like to try new things and take a risk!
• Leaders create productive teams that draw the best from the people they work with.
• They don’t let their ego get in the way.
Degrees DON’T automatically make you a good leader.

How do you make a good leader?
• Develop a vision.
• Befriend other leaders.
• Read new and classic business books and great leaders bio’s.
• Formulate a mission statement for your department or library.
• Seek feedback from others
• Be open to your mistakes.
• Improve your communication skills.
• Stop talking – start listening.
• Restate important points in several ways.

A few tips to help accomplish your goal of being a good leader are:

1. Keep a journal of critical incidents. Look back and learn what you did well and what you might have done better.
2. Don’t expect perfection. No one wins ALL the time. Good leaders grow by making mistakes.
3. Wise leaders look for support staff or partners who complement their weaknesses.
4. Remember – two different streets can get you to the same place. Respect other people’s way of travel.
5. Motivate people - but remember, the same reward doesn’t work for everyone – find out what works for the people you are working with.



Is a supervisor / manager the same thing as a leader? Do they require the same set of skills and knowledge? Do all managers have leadership qualities or do all leaders have to be a supervisor / manager?

An important thing to remember is that a degree doesn’t make a manager / supervisor. It’s a learned skill and/or it’s your own personality.

Managers / supervisors are not always in that position because they WANT to be. It might be something they ended up with because of their length of time at their job. This makes it a very difficult situation for everyone. Please keep this perspective when you are having a difficult time with your manager / supervisor.

There doesn’t seem to be a type of Leadership style however, there does seem to be different styles for managers. They are – Autocratic, Democratic and Hands off.


One last thing to consider –

Please read below Bill Gates' tips for a good manager. You don’t have to like Microsoft to agree that Bill Gates has built a huge company. There is something to be said about his management and leadership skills.





Bill Gates' tips for a good manager
There isn’t a magic formula for good management, of course, but if you’re a manager, perhaps these tips will help you be more effective:
1. Choose a field thoughtfully. Make it one you enjoy. It’s hard to be productive without enthusiasm. This is true whether you’re a manager or employee;
2. Hire carefully and be willing to fire. You need a strong team, because a mediocre team gives mediocre results, no matter how well managed it is. One mistake is holding on to somebody who doesn’t measure up. It’s easy to keep this person on the job because he’s not terrible at what he does. But a good manager will replace him or move him to where he can succeed unambiguously;
3. Create a productive environment. This is a particular challenge because it requires different approaches depending on the context. Sometimes you maximise productivity by giving everybody his or her own office. Sometimes you achieve it by moving everybody into open space. Sometimes you use financial incentives to stimulate productivity. A combination of approaches is usually required. One element that almost always increases productivity is providing an information system that empowers employees.
When I was building Microsoft, I set out to create an environment where software developers could thrive. I wanted a company where engineers liked to work. I wanted to create a culture that encouraged them to work together, share ideas and remain motivated. If I hadn’t been a software engineer myself, there’s no way I could have achieved my goal;
4. Define success. Make it clear to your employees what constitutes success and how they should measure their achievements. Goals must be realistic. Project schedules, for example, must be set by the people who do the work. People will accept a “bottoms-up” deadline they helped set, but they’ll be cynical about a schedule imposed from the top that doesn’t map to reality. Unachievable goals undermine an organisation. At my company, in addition to regular team meetings and one-on-one sessions between managers and employees, we use mass gatherings periodically and E-mail routinely to communicate what we expect from employees. If a reviewer or customer chooses another company’s product, we analyse the situation. We say to our people, “The next time around we’ve got to win. What’s needed?” The answers to these questions help us define success;
5. To be a good manager, you have to like people and be good at communicating. This is hard to fake. If you don’t enjoy interacting with people, it’ll be hard to manage them well. You must have a wide range of personal contacts within your organisation. You need relationships – not necessarily personal friendships – with a fair number of people, including your own employees. You must encourage these people to tell you what’s going on and give you feedback about what people are thinking about the company and your role in it;
6. Develop your people to do their jobs better than you can. Transfer your skills to them. This is an exciting goal, but it can be threatening to a manager who worries that he’s training his replacement. If you’re concerned, ask your boss: “If I develop somebody who can do my job super well, does the company have some other challenge for me or not?” Many smart managers like to see their employees increase their responsibilities because it frees the managers to tackle new or undone tasks. There’s no shortage of jobs for good managers. The world has an infinite amount of work to be done;
7. Build morale. Make it clear there’s plenty of goodwill to go around and that it’s not just you or some hotshot manager who’s going to look good if things go well. Give people a sense of the importance of what they’re working on – its importance to the company, its importance to customers;
8. Take on projects yourself. You need to do more than communicate. The last thing people want is a boss who just doles out stuff. From time to time, prove you can be hands-on by taking on one of the less attractive tasks and using it as an example of how your employees should meet challenges;
9. Don’t make the same decision twice. Spend the time and thought to make a solid decision the first time so that you don’t revisit the issue unnecessarily. If you’re too willing to reopen issues, it interferes not only with your execution but also with your motivation to make a decision in the first place. People hate indecisive leadership; However, that doesn’t mean you have to decide everything the moment it comes to your attention. Nor that you can’t ever reconsider a decision.
10. Let people know whom to please. Maybe it’s you, maybe it’s your boss, and maybe it’s somebody who works for you. You’re in trouble and risking paralysis in your organisation when employees start saying to themselves: “Am I supposed to be making this person happy or this other person happy? They seem to have different priorities.”
I don’t pretend that these are the only 10 approaches a manager should keep in mind. There are lots of others. Just a month ago I encouraged leaders to demand bad news before good news from their employees. But these 10 ideas may help you manage well, and I hope they do.

Thursday, June 25, 2009

Changes in delivery

As of July 1, the RRLC delivery courier service will no longer make a stop at Hobart & William Smith Colleges or at the RRLC office. Please do not put any items into the delivery for either of these two locations after this Friday, June 26.

If you submit ILL requests directly to HWS -- HWS has agreed to mail the items to the PLS requesting library. At this time returns can be sent to PLS HQ and we will coordinate with a PLS staff member to return them to HWS. Currently the volume of materials loaned from HWS is quite low to member libraries -- if the volume significantly increases we will have to explore other options for returns.

Materials being sent for RRLC staff will now have to mailed from your library to RRLC.
Items coming to the RRLC office should be sent by US Mail to:

Rochester Regional Library Council
390 Packett's Landing
Fairport, NY 14450

We will continue to have RRLC delivery for the Rochester academic libraries, FLCC and MCLS.
BOCES 1, Boces 2, GVBOCES, and Wayne Finger Lakes BOCES delivery will resume in the fall when schools are back in session.

Thank you.

Tuesday, June 23, 2009

NYSLAA conference report by Nicki

~ 2009 NYSLAA Conference Report ~

Submitted by- Nicki Haupt, Williamson Public library

The 31st NYSLAA conference in Troy was a monumental success. Not only was there a terrific selection of workshops providing attendees with many opportunities for professional growth but we were enabled to network effectively in a relaxed environment allowing much positive interaction.

All of the workshops I attended were outstanding, but of those, Web Trends in Libraries with Geoff Kirkpatrick had the most impact on me; especially now with concept 24/7 ref. desk rapidly approaching (good luck GPL!).

Geoff promoted the concept of blogging and gave us examples of great library blogspots. User friendly, middle of the road web design is crucial. He reminded us that only 1% of patrons use blogspots to search for specific library materials; most patrons know to go to other sources (Pugh info study). Effective blogspots should be updated weekly highlighting specific programs, an easy to use calendar, program photos, or by directing patrons to Youtube library activities. Patrons want the ability to communicate among themselves, whether it is to critique or recommend library materials (ie: “Yes I read…. and I agree with you. Have you read…? I think the author has really nailed it on this one!”). Interactivity empowers patrons to sell our materials for us and increase our circ. Many libraries are now using interactive websites such as Facebook, Twitter, and Flickr, to name a few, to “hook” those patrons who won’t use the library’s blogspot.

We were also encouraged to add patron comment sheets on circulating materials. Many libraries do this now and have noticed that this increases circ. This may be low tech but, not all patrons use the internet.

Patrons want interactivity. Widgets for live chat on our catalogs, webcams or texting patrons are in store for libraries the very near future. We need to stay connected to users to keep them coming back. And when that disgruntled patron who can’t renew his material with 6 holds sees your face via webcam, remember to smile!

Monday, June 22, 2009

NYSLAA conference report by Lidia

~2009 NYSLAA Conference Report ~
Submitted by :
Lidia Grzegorek
Ontario Public Library


That was my first experience with NYSLAA and I really liked very much. We had a great selection of the courses and I wish I would have a chance to take more. But all the ones I would like to take it were offered unfortunately in the same time.
I liked very much “WEB Trends in the Libraries”, also” Blogs, Wikis, and RSS” They were really very informational. The presenter Geoff Kirkpatrick was very knowledgeable and he captivated the audience. Another good course was “Dealing with Difficult People and Mastering Conflict”. I learned a lot from this course.
“Introduction to Photoshop” was a good program, but it was an upper level course, not really for novices like me. I did not like the set-up of the tables. Some of us were seating back to the presenter and could not follow easily his instructions on the projection screen.
Above all that was a great conference, had a wonderful atmosphere, everybody was so friendly and I will gladly participate in NYSLAA again next year.
Lidia Grzegorek
Ontario Public Library

Glen Iris 5k- 2009

Good morning everyone!

The 2009 Glen Iris 5k will take place this year on Saturday, September 12.
The Glen Iris 5k is a fund raiser for the Castile Public Library.

This is a great way to get in alittle excersise AND help out one of our member libraries.

For more information - please check out -
http://www.castile.pls-net.org/5k.html

I hope to see LOTS of PLS people there this year. :-)

NYSLAA conference

FYI.....
Reports should start to be uploaded later this week

Thanks

Tuesday, June 16, 2009

Ray Murray Award Winner

Debby Emerson, Assistant Director of the Rochester Regional Library Council
(RRLC), is the recipient of the 2009 Ray Murray Award. Ms. Emerson has been
an advocate for professional development of library support staff through
her work at RRLC. Donna Hanna, SUNY Geneseo writes: "Debby is an
outstanding advocate for library assistants. She offers invaluable
assistance to us as a member of the RRLC Library Assistants' Committee and I
feel she encompasses every attribute for which the Ray Murray Award is
given."

To read about this and other items of interest to libraries please visit
"What's New" on the RRLC homepage, http://www.rrlc.org.

Monday, June 15, 2009

Wood looking for Walking Ambassador

Wood Library has two "Walking Ambassador" volunteer positions with stipends of $300 each. Great opportunity for people in-between jobs or retirees. The volunteers will help plan and run a 10-week walking, fitness program at Wood Library in Fall 2009. Volunteers will work with a small group of people age 50 and over who want to make exercise and walking part of their lives. The program is part exercise, part education, part inspiration. You don't need to be a fitness expert, just be committed to the notion that exercise is beneficial, be able to inspire others, like working with people, and have presentation and organizational skills. Supervision, training manual and materials provided. The project is funded by FF Thompson Foundation in partnership with Wood Library. For more information, call or email Barbara Henry, Adult Services Librarian at Wood Library: 585-394-1381 or bhenry@pls-net.org

Message from ALA bout volunteering

Last week, I wrote to let you know that the American Library Association is working with the White House, in partnership with the Corporation for National & Community Service, to get libraries involved in a national volunteer initiative that will run from June 22 to September 11, 2009.

By early next week, an announcement will come from the White House asking partners, including libraries, to post their local volunteer opportunities online. Since the initiative will then officially launch on June 22, you’ll want to have any information on volunteer opportunities at your library ready to go in anticipation of this quick turnaround. We recognize that this doesn’t give you much time, but we hope you will consider being a part of this important initiative.

Please visit www.ala.org/summerofservice to find a one page fact sheet on the initiative from the Corporation for National & Community Service.

Volunteer opportunities can be posted right now by visiting www.serve.gov, and I encourage you to do that as soon as you are able.

The ALA will keep you informed as this initiative progresses, and the next time you hear from us will be after President Obama has announced it publicly. The ALA will also be providing tips and resources for volunteer ideas, best practices, and ways to contribute your own information, ideas and stories, all of which you can access at www.ala.org/summerofservice.

Prior to the public launch of the service initiative, the Corporation for National & Community Service is looking for volunteer opportunities that will take place on June 22nd to use as potential examples. If you do have such a volunteer opportunity going on in your library, we encourage you to fill out the form posted at www.ala.org/summerofservice and send it back to library@ala.org no later than June 17.

Thank you so much for all that you do to ensure your community has access to great library services and resources!

Sincerely,

Keith Michael Fiels
Executive Director
American Library Association

Gorham library needs help

The very busy Gorham Free Library is looking for a part-time clerk. Starting wage is $8.50 per hour with flexible hours needed. We are looking for up to 23 hours per week. The job entails regular clerking duties. Please feel free to e-mail me for specifics or call me this afternoon (12-4) or tomorrow afternoon from 12-6 to discuss at 585-526-6655. Diane Hovey

Friday, June 5, 2009

Geneva Public Library hiring

The Geneva Public Library (www.genevapubliclibrary.net) seeks a librarian with a strong interest in working with teens and a passion for reading and young adult literature for a temporary, summer-only, full-time job, which will include running the library's teen summer reading program.

Evening hours are possible immediately with a full-time schedule available in late June or the first of July. The job continues through the end of August. Additional information is available by contacting Mike Nyerges, Director, at 315-789-5303 or mnyerges@pls-net.org. Applicants must submit an Ontario County Department of Human Resources application for this position, the title of which is Librarian I Sub.

Wednesday, June 3, 2009

Overloaded shelves


From the Cataloging Department at PLS

Our shelves are over full!
We now have 42 library requesting new records, which is awesome but.....we are only two people.
We just wanted to make everyone aware of the cataloging backlog that we currently have at PLS.

We promise to get to your stuff as quick a possible but please remember, it might take awhile.


Thank you for your patience!

Action needed ASAP!

Dear Library Advocate, the Legislature is rushing through a proposal by the Attorney General to consolidate local governments. The legislation, which also includes library districts, passed the Assembly already this week, and the Senate is expected to vote either today or tomorrow.
NYLA believes special legislative district libraries (those created by an act of the Legislature), municipal libraries and potentially school district public libraries are covered by this proposed consolidation legislation.
The bill allows for the elected bodies of governmental entities, or the voters of these entities to initiate process for consolidation. Education Law already allows for the dissolution and consolidation of libraries, and so like school districts, should be exempt from this legislation.
In addition, the bill also allows for county government to initiate consolidation of local governmental entities and put the vote for consolidation to all the voters of the county. This means that the voters of your library district could vote to maintain your library, but the voters throughout the rest of the county could vote to dissolve your library, thereby allowing majorities of voters outside your library coverage area to determine the fate of your library.
This legislation was only introduced at the end of May and has already passed one house of the Legislature and is poised to pass the other this week. NYLA believes more discussion, public hearings and greater scrutiny of the ramifications of this proposal needs to conducted before it becomes law.
I therefore urge you to visit our website at www.nyla.org and click on Contact Your Elected Officials button to send a fax/email to your legislators asking them to exempt library districts from this legislation.

$1,000 award nominations needed

The Friends of the New York State Library and EBSCO Information Services are co-sponsoring this year’s Joseph F. Shubert Library Excellence Award. The $1,000 award will recognize a library or library consortium in New York State that has taken significant steps to improve the quality of library service to its users.

For more information about the Shubert Award and the application form, please go to http://www.nysl.nysed.gov/libdev/adviscns/rac/award/index.html
, or contact Mary Woodward at (518) 473-8362 or via e-mail at mwoodwar@mail.nysed.gov . Applications must be received by June 30th, 2009.

Friday, May 29, 2009

Bristol Director

The Bristol Library is currently accepting resumes for Library Manager.
Bristol is a small rural community in Ontario County, serving 2400
people. The library is open 28.5 hours, 6 days a week with an annual
circulation of 19,000. The collection of over 11,000 items is fully
automated and the library has 3 public access computers.

This position is for 26 hours a week consisting of day, evening and
weekend hours.

The Library Manager is responsible for carrying out library functions
and administrative tasks. This includes, among other duties, assisting
patrons, hiring and supervision of personnel, oversight of building
maintenance and repairs, planning and carrying out library programs,
ordering materials, providing reference services, library technology
management, grant writing, community relations, preparing budget for
board approval and delegating work responsibilities. The Library Manager
is also expected to attend continuing education workshops and
professional meetings.

Minimum qualification for the job is a bachelor’s degree or equivalent
experience.

Library experience preferred.

Salary for this position will be determined on education and experience;
with a starting base of $11.00 per hour.

Please send a resume and references to: bristollibrarydirector@owwl.org

Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.

save the date!

Save the date........
This workshop is not the annual PLS workshop.
Information for the PLS workshop date will be coming out soon.

Third Annual Library Assistants' Day

November 3, 2009
9am - 3:30pm
Holiday Inn Carrier Circle, Syracuse, NY

We are delighted to announce the third annual
Library Assistants' Day in Syracuse, NY

Join your colleagues for a day of investigation, discussion and fun.
There will be ample time to connect with colleagues and peers over a variety of session topics.

  • The preliminary schedule includes:
  • Customer Service (FISH!)
  • Microsoft Applications Update (demo only)
  • Creating Library Displays and Exhibits
  • Genealogy
  • Gaming
  • Social Networking
  • Communicating Effectively
  • Time Management
Lunch and refreshments are included in the registration fee.
Save the Date!
Registration information coming soon.

This workshop is sponsored by:
South Central Regional Library Council
Rochester Regional Library Council
CLRC
State University at New York - Upstate Medical University

Friday, May 22, 2009

Facebook and libraries

Ok so now that I have your attention.....
Do the words Facebook and libraries go together?
Of course they do!

Did you know that there are many library organizations on Facebook?
Some of which include -
  • Phelps Community Memorial Library
  • Newark Public Library
  • Marion Public Library
  • Library Journal
  • ALA
  • NYSLAA
  • Rochester Regional Library Council (RRLC)
  • NYLA YSS
  • NYLA SMART
Not only is Facebook at fun social website for individuals - it's also a place for different businesses and organizations to get their information out to others.

Take a few minutes and check out different library profiles on Facebook.

Tuesday, April 14, 2009

Daniel W. Casey Library Advocacy Award

Posted on behalf of RRLC:

It's time to submit your nomination for the Daniel W. Casey Library Advocacy
Award. This award will be presented on October 16, 2009 at the Empire
Friends annual meeting at the New York Library Association Annual Conference
in Niagara Falls, NY. This Empire Friends Roundtable award honors a
volunteer member or a group of the library community whose efforts have
contributed to the growth of libraries or Friends organizations. For more
information and a copy of the nomination form, please visit "What's New" on
the RRLC homepage http://www.rrlc.org.

Rochester Regional Library Council
Advancing libraries through collaboration
390 Packett's Landing
Fairport NY 14450

Happy National Library Workers Day

Happy National Library Workers Day!

I hope everyone will be celebrating in a special way today.
We at PLS will be having a luncheon to celebrate this wonderful day.

Please share and let me know how your library celebrates.

Nominations needed for NYLA award

Call for nominations for two NYLA awards: Outstanding Advocate of Libraries and Outstanding Services to Libraries

May 30th is the deadline for nominations for two important New York Library Association statewide awards. Please share this information with others who may not subscribe to nyla-members.

Outstanding Advocate of Libraries Award:

This award is presented to an individual who is not an employee, trustee or group primarily affiliated with library information services and yet has made a significant contribution of these services to the people of New York State. Deadline for nominations - May 30, 2009.

NYLA - Outstanding Advocate of Libraries Information and Nomination Form available at http://www.nyla.org/index.php?page_id=1129

Outstanding Service to Libraries Award:

This award is presented to an individual or group who has performed through their direct affiliation as an employee or trustee of a library or information service a significant contribution of these services to the people of New York State. Deadline for nominations - May 30, 2009.

NYLA - Outstanding Service to Libraries Information & Nomination Form available at http://www.nyla.org/index.php?page_id=1130

Wednesday, April 8, 2009

current list of attendees

Here is a current list of PLS attendees for the 2009 NYSLAA conference.
If I'm missing anyone - please let me know!

Heidi Jensen - PLS
Cindy Costa - Geneseo/Wadsworth
Susie Flick - Geneva
Debbie Elliotto - Geneva
Wendy Frier - Geneva
Ruth Schutt - Ontario
Lidia Grzegorek - Ontario
Nicki Haupt - Williamson
Gail Howard - Williamson

Letter in NY Times

Michael Borges, Executive Director of NYLA, has a letter published in today's NY Times highlighting the importance of libraries and the lack of funding from the Governor and Legislators. Although the State budget has passed, and although legislators restored some of the cuts proposed by the Governor (the final budget is 8% less than the 08-09 budget), library funding still suffered a drastic cut at a time when libraries are being used as part of the "safety net".
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/04/08/opinion/lweb08library.html?_r=2

Tuesday, April 7, 2009

Grace Urban Ministries

Twice a year the RRLC Library Assistants Group takes up a collection of items that are needed at Grace Urban Ministries. Grace Urban Ministries is an non profit organization that helps woman and children who are at risk. Jennifer Wolfley is the director and does an amazing job. To read an article that Jennifer has written, please click on this link - Tribute.
The following items are being collected from April 1 - 30, 2009.
Laundry detergent
Baby Wipes
Shaving Cream
Small play items for 2 - 4 yr. old children
Personal Care items
Diapers
Purses
Make up
They can be used items. You more than welcome to donate shampoo or other items that are partially used.

I will have a box at PLS-HQ at my desk. If you wish to make a donation, please bring it in and put in the box. I'm asking that you don't use delivery for this donation. Our delivery vans are already over full with library materials.
I will also have a box in the meeting room. If you are coming to the System Meeting next week, it would be a great time to drop things off.

Any questions, please let me know.
Thanks,
Heidi

Friday, April 3, 2009

Discover the joy of reading!


Great challenge for kids -with a possible fun reward!
Check it out:

http://www.readwithkidschallenge.com/

Thursday, April 2, 2009

Time is running out!

Time is running out to sign up for the NYSLAA conference at the Early Bird rate.
Early Bird rate is $105 for NYSLAA members. Not a NYSLAA member - no worries, you can sign up for the conference and become a member all at the same time. Member fee is $15 for the whole year.
We have 5 people confirmed going to the conference this year and 2 more that are 90% sure.
Please consider going - it's a great conference with even better benefits!

Any questions - please let me know.
Thanks!
Heidi

Wednesday, March 25, 2009

Tell your family - Tell your friends - Tell EVERYONE!

We need every library supporter in Pioneer to take action now!

State budget negotiations are near completion and a final deal could be
reached by this weekend. Library Advocates need to remind their
Legislators and the Governor to restore the proposed $18 million or 18%
cut in Library Aid.

Please go to OWWL.org and by clicking on the Library
Advocate button you can send a fax/email to your legislators to remind
them not to forget about their commitments to restore Library Aid. If
these cuts go through, Library Aid will be reduced to $80.5 million a
level not seen since 1993.

Library usage has skyrocketed across the state and nation. Now is not
the time to cut public services that are in the greatest demand and
needed the most.

Libraries have already been cut twice last year, we have contributed our
share, now it is time for others to do their part to solve the state's
budget deficit.

Please forward this message to your friends, colleagues, trustees, etc.
We need to send at least 5,000 messages over the next few days.

Thank you!

Jennifer Morris, Director
Pioneer Library System
2557 State Rte 21
Canandaigua, NY 14424

585-394-8260 voice
585-394-1935 fax

Tuesday, March 24, 2009

Free Writing Basics Workshop

Posted on behalf of the Rochester Public Library. A pdf flyer with complete
information is attached to this message.

FREE workshop sponsored by the Business Division of Rochester Public
Library, a Cooperating Collection of the Foundation Center:

The Foundation Center Proposal Writing Basics
For Nonprofit Grantseekers, Fundraisers and Grantwriters

Monday, April 13, 2009
10:00 a.m. - Noon

Kate Gleason Auditorium
Bausch and Lomb Public Library Building
115 South Avenue

Are you new to proposal writing? Learn about the basics of writing a
proposal for your nonprofit organization. This workshop will also provide an
overview of services and resources provided by the Foundation Center
including its database, Foundation Directory Online.

Registration Deadline: April 3, 2009

Rochester Regional Library Council
Advancing libraries through collaboration
390 Packett's Landing
Fairport NY 14450
585-223-7570
Fax: 585-223-7712
rrlc@rrlc.org
www.rrlc.org

Are you trying to attend?

I'm trying to figure out who all is attending the NYSLAA conference this year?
If you are planning on going - or atleast trying to get funding - please let me know.
Thanks
Heidi

The following people have signed up to attend:
Susie Flick (Geneva)
Heidi Jensen (PLS)
Nicki Haupt (Williamson)
Gail Howard (Williamson)
Cindy Costa (Geneseo)

Thursday, March 19, 2009

Time to celebrate


Time to Celebrate!
Tuesday, April 14th, 2009 is National Library Workers Day

What is National Library Workers Day you ask?
It's a day to celebrate the hard work of everyone who works in a library from Pages, Clerks, Techs, Friends Groups and Librarians. You name it - if you work in a library or volunteer in some way - you deserve to be recognized. This years National Library Workers Day theme is "Libraries Work because we do".
National Library Workers day is celebrated, Tuesday during National Library Week.
This year's National Library Week them is "Worlds connect @ your library".

On Thursday, April 16th is New York State Library Assistants Day. This day has been recognized by the State Assembly Representatives sponsoring the resolution and the Governor of New York State since around 1999.

How will you be celebrating this year?
Are you the planner for your library?
Let me know if you plan on celebrating in your library this year.