Happy New Year!

Hope everyone has a safe and happy New Year's Eve.

Award Nominations Needed

Award Nominations

Craig Koste & Ray Murray Award Nomination Process

Each year, NYSLAA seeks nominations from its members for each of these awards. The Executive Council reviews the nominations in April of each year and notifies the recipients. The awards are presented at the annual conference in June.

To nominate, please compile a packet including: your nomination letter, supporting letters, and any other pertinent documentation. Please include the name of the nominee's supervisor for notification. The deadline for the submission is March 31^st of each year.

Send nomination packets (or questions) for either award to the NYSLAA President:

Joy Piper
President
University at Buffalo
Central Technical Service
134 Lockwood Library
Buffalo, NY 14260-2210
Phone: (716) 645-2305 ext.242
Fax: (716) 645-5955

Save the date

Save the date!

The 2009 NYSLAA conference is going to be held -
Wednesday, June 10th - Friday, June 12th in Troy, NY.

Please plan on attending this awesome learning and networking opportunity.

Lottery tickets available

Each year NYSLAA sells 'lottery tickets' as a fund raiser to help support their annual conference.
Tickets are $5 each. Each ticket comes with 3 numbers on it.
If these 3 numbers are drawn in the NYS lottery during the month of February for the Evening drawing of 'Take Three', then you will win $25. If you numbers are drawn on Valentine's Day - you will win $50.
Your $5 ticket is good for the whole month of February.
If you would like to buy a ticket - please let me know.
Thanks
Heidi

ALA seeks $100M in Stimulus Funding

The American Library Association is (ALA) is asking Congress for a one-time infusion of $100 million in stimulus funding to help libraries aid Americans as they deal with the nation's current fiscal crisis.
To read more on this topic -
Check it out at:

http://www.libraryjournal.com/article/CA6611595.html

From NYLA

Dear Library Advocate,

As I informed you yesterday, the 2009-10 Executive Budget proposes a $18 million or 18% cut in Library Aid. This would bring Library Aid down to 1993 levels and is on top of two cuts (3%) in 2008 which reduced Library Aid from $102 million to $98.5 million. (This basically a repackaing of the same cut proposed on November 18th by the Division of Budget, that the Library Rally and other advocacy efforts help prevent.)

Library Materials Aid for School Libraries remains steady at $6.25 per pupil.

School Aid was reduced by $698 million, but BOCES Aid was increased by $33 million. See link for complete list of changes <http://publications.budget.state.ny.us/eBudget0910/fy0910littlebook/EducationSchoolAid.html>

Public Library Construction Aid - $800,000 line item was eliminated, but the $14 million in borrowed funding for library construction remains intact. NYLA is working with Division of Library Development and the American Library Association to insure that a federal stimulus package for public works projects includes funds for libraries.

Adult Literacy Education (ALE) funds remains level a $4.9 million (libraries are elgible to apply for these funds)

SUNY/CUNY tuition increases of 14% and 15% respectively were proposed. $338 million in cuts overall proposed - see<http://publications.budget.state.ny.us/eBudget0910/fy0910littlebook/HigherEducation.html> for detailed info.

BUNDY Aid (for private colleges) was cut by $2 million.

The Executive Budget also includes two changes with potential benefits for libraries that NYLA advocated for:

Computer Software Aid - language was revised to allow the purchase of materials in electronic format which are access or delivered through the internet.

Local Government Efficiency Grants - language was amended to allow all types of public libraries to apply for these shared services grants including association, school library district and special legislative district libraries.

NYLA will be updating its Talking Points and 2009 Budget Priorities over the next week for use by library advocates in their meetings with legislators. An updated History of Library Aid, Library Circulation and Visitation Charts are already up on our website.

In addition, we are looking for examples of how libraries have helped people find jobs, create new businesses, etc. Also we need to know if your library has a business or employment center (physical space dedicated for such use) or job assistance program, etc. Thank you for your cooperation.

Michael J. Borges

Executive Director

New York Library Association

Volunteers needed

Library Volunteers Needed!

The Education Committee of the Italian American Community Center is
seeking volunteers to help set up its new library! The library has a
beautiful new space - complete with lots of windows - on the second
floor of the Community Center building on Manitou Road in Gates.

The collection consists mainly of books, many of them written in
Italian. The books are currently arranged on the shelves in broad
categories, such as Biography, Travel, Music, Art, History,
Architecture, Science, Sports, Culture, Fiction, Children's Books, and
Young Adult Books.

The skills of a librarian are needed to catalog the items, assign call
numbers, and develop a database of the library's collection. The group
would also welcome a librarian's help in determining which of the many
web-based software solutions would be the best choice for a library
management system (OPAC, circulation) for this small, specialized
collection.

In developing this new special library, the Education Committee is
committed to:

Developing the community's awareness of the Italian American experience
and culture
Having a functioning library in the Italian American Community Center
available to members and to the public
Serving as a resource for educators
Serving as a forum for the development of Italian language skills

If you are interested in using your library skills to help organize and
catalog this new collection, please contact Joe Aleo by phone at
585-254-2020, x1038
or by email at friar@rochester.rr.com.

Proposed Library aid cuts

In the public announcement of his budget this morning the Governor
proposed an $18 million or 18% cut in Library Aid that would bring state
aid for libraries down to $80.5 million. The $14 million in public
library construction would remain the same.

It is a constitutional requirement that the Governor present a balanced
budget -- the legislature does not have to meet that requirement! So
once again that's where we will focus our efforts.

Stay tuned.

Library Assistant position open at U or R.

Posted on behalf of the University of Rochester River Campus Libraries

Department: Access Services (Interlibrary Loan)
Position Title: Library Assistant IV
Position Code: 0513
Pay Grade: 08

Summary:
The primary responsibilities of this position are to oversee and
maintain detailed online records in the interlibrary loan database and
OCLC, act as a liaison to our clients providing support, and to process
incoming materials. This position requires a good knowledge of the
River Campus in order to provide delivery of materials to branch
libraries and faculty offices. This position assists with setting rooms
for upcoming library events. The schedule for this position may include
providing Circulation Desk backup for weekend days. The ability to
exercise independent judgment, schedule work and set priorities is
necessary.

Duties:
30%
. Online record maintenance within the interlibrary loan database
and oclc
. Process incoming materials and prepare materials to be returned
. Processes all materials received electronically and pushes
materials through to the patrons

30%
. Contacts patrons promptly upon arrival of borrowed materials
. Processes overdue notices, recalls and updates renewal requests
. Monitors materials and sends reminders for items not yet picked
up
. Provides quality control of materials and rectifies problems
prior to patron notifications

30%
. Responsible for main phone line for office
. Provides patron assistance and support for using the
interlibrary loan database
. Provides assistance and support for use of the department
photocopy machine, Xerox color printer and fax machine
. Authorizes payment of bills and forwards invoices to the Library
Financial Office for payment
. Opens, sorts and distributes incoming office mail
. Provides backup to other staff in the office
. Provides backup and assistance at the Circulation Desk

10%
. Other duties as assigned

QUALIFICATIONS:
2 years post high school education and 3-4 years of work experience (or
an equivalent combination of education and experience)
Relevant college degree preferred and may be substituted for the above
Good telephone skills
Aptitude and desire to work with the public
Sensitivity when dealing with patrons
Good judgment
Good command of English
Desirable Qualifications:
Experience working with computer terminals
Previous academic library experience
Ability to organize work
Knowledge of bookkeeping procedures

Please send letter of application, resume, and the names, address and
phone numbers of three references to:
Kelley Kitrinos, HR Administrator
University of Rochester, Rush Rhees Library
Rochester NY 14627-0055
Fax: (585) 273-5309
-OR-

Email: RCLHR@library.rochester.edu

New link added to blog roll

I've just added a new Blog link to the Blog roll located on the right hand side of this blog.
It's for the PLS OWWL Training Blog that Lindsay writes.
Check it out!

All member libraries are now on OWWL

As of early December, ALL 42 PLS member libraries are fully on OWWL (workflows).
They are all now checking items in and out, as well as, placing and receiving holds.
Congratulations to EVERYONE! We should all be very proud.

Libraries Featured on NBC News Report

Subject: Libraries Featured on NBC News Report

NBC News reports:

"The library business is booming, but now they could use some help in
these tough times"

Libraries offer free relief for tough times... - "the library is a
lifeline"

More Americans have library cards than at any other time since the
American Library Association has kept records.

See the video:

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/22425001/vp/28165432#28165432

THANK YOU!

Dear Library Advocate, I want to let you know that your participation in NYLA's advocacy efforts has helped release $26 million in undistributed Library Aid from the approved 2008-09 State Budget.

As you know, the state was holding onto the undistributed funds pending an agreement with the state Legislature on further mid-year budget cuts. Since those cuts were not agreed to by the state Legislature (and the NYLA Library Rally on November 18th impacted that decision), the remaining funds have been authorized to be released. These undistributed funds include aid for the NYC libraries, library systems, Conservation and Preservation Program, Indian Libraries and Coordinated Collection Development Aid (CCDA) for college libraries.

So thanks again to all of you in the library community who joined us in advocating on behalf of all libraries. United we stand, divided we fall!

Stay tune for further NYLA Legislative Alerts. The Governor will be releasing his 2009-10 Executive Budget next week on December 16th, and there will be more work for NYLA and library advocates to do. In addition, President-Elect Obama and Congress are discussing an economic stimulus package for public works projects and we are working with ALA to insure that libraries receive their fair share of any stimulus package.

Michael J. Borges

Executive Director

New York Library Association

252 Hudson Avenue

Albany, New York 12210

(518) 432-6952, ext. 101

(518) 427-1697 Fax

director@nyla.org

OWWLug

" Please attend the final 2008 OWWLUG meeting! Submit agenda items to Lindsay Stratton, lstratton@pls-net.org or 585-394-8260.

We will also have a mini-CE session on creating a positive user experience at the circ desk. "

OWWLUG
Event Type: Meeting
Date: 12/12/2008
Start Time: 10:00 AM
End Time: 12:00 PM
Location: Large Meeting Room
Description: OWWL User Group meeting

Public Library Director needed

Job posting ~
Public Library Director

The Trustees of Guernsey Memorial Library in Norwich, N.Y. are seeking an innovative, highly motivated and resourceful Library Director to serve as a full time director beginning February 1, 2009, or as soon as possible, thereafter. The director is responsible for the ongoing operation of a library with 23 full and part-time employees, a budget of $1M, circulation of over 178,000, and a collection of over 76,000 items, serving a population of 13,500+.

Qualifications: Must have an ALA recognized MLS and at least five years experience in a supervisory position with fiscal responsibility.

Job Description: This is a Library Director I position as described in the NYS Civil Service Library Director’s position description, with excellent benefits.

Salary: $48,000 $55,000, commensurate with experience.

Closing Date: January 15, 2009

Applicants must have:

·

Strong written and oral communication skills.

·

Considerable knowledge of current technology and ability to use computers and software to conduct database searches, spreadsheet management, word processing and cataloging.

·

Be able to demonstrate excellent interpersonal skills.

·

Foster a team environment and committed to staff development and performance management.

·

Effective fiscal management skills, and experience with developing a library budget.

·

Ability to develop strategic planning and implementation.

Resumes, including three (3) references, should be submitted to:

Debra Deforest, Director of HR
City of Norwich Civil Service Commission
1 City Plaza
Norwich, NY 13815

Training opportunity in Wyoming County

Do you live in Wyoming County??

Lindsay Stratton and Heidi Jensen from the Pioneer Library System will be hosting a 'Holdings Maintenance Overview' at the Perry Public Library on Wednesday, November 19th from 10 - 12:30pm. This is open to anyone who uses Workflows.
A description of the workshop is as follows:
Holdings Maintenance Overview presents holdings maintenance theory and procedure in context. We will cover: basics of the OWWL database and bibliographic records, item search, adding and editing item records, policies and best practices for new holdings, ways to maintain a clean item database.

Please sign up today on the PLS calendar of events located at www.pls-net.org

Get Angry... PLEASE!

[from Mike Borges, NYLA]

Dear Library Advocate, I want you to get really angry, I mean really fed
up with the way libraries and library systems are being treated by the
State of New York. The NYS Division of Budget has proposed a $20
million cut, that's right the largest cut ever in Library Aid, a 20%
reduction in funding, that no other educational institutions are being
asked to bear, to resolve the state's deficit for fiscal year 2008-09.

This cut will be devastating to library services throughout the state,
no library or system will go unscathed, if this happens layoffs may
occur, services will be curtailed or costs passed onto to local
libraries and their patrons.

I urge you to go our website www.nyla.org immediately and click on
Contact Your Elected Official button to send a letter to your state
legislator opposing this proposed cut that the Legislature will consider
when they return to Albany on November 18th for a special session. The
letter is editable so you may include your own comments about how
libraries are essential in your community, how library systems save your
library money and provide vital services. Or call/visit your
legislators in person if possible between now and next Tuesday.

The library community needs to act now in a strong, aggressive and
united fashion in order to prevent this outrageous proposal from
becoming reality.

HELP HELP HELP

Ok Everyone,
we really need more people to go to Albany with us next Tuesday to
protest the latest round of cuts. Gov. Paterson just released his new
proposal which includes cutting another $20 million in library aid from
THIS YEAR'S BUDGET! That means a yearly allocation of $78.5 million,
rather than the $101 million we were promised. It puts us back to 1998
levels.
UNACCEPTABLE!
Please join us on Tuesday! We need to fill up the halls of the
Legislative Office Building and make a lot of noise. The Rally starts at
1pm and should be over by 2pm. We have cars leaving from several
locations around the system, so we can make it pretty convenient for
you. Bring family, friends, neighbors too!

Wisconsin librarians boogie

Wisconsin librarians boogie to victory with book carts

MADISON, Wis. (AP) -- Librarians shook out their buns and dusted off their dancing shoes to compete in the Wisconsin Book Cart Drill Team competition.
The Baraboo Bookers took first prize Friday at the Wisconsin Library Association's annual conference.
Teams of librarians created short choreographed dances and rocked out with their book carts.
The Baraboo Public Library team danced to the rock 'n' roll classic "Born to be Wild" with four carts and a dolly.
They competed against the Mad City truckers, graduate students from the University of Wisconsin-Madison who used an Indiana Jones-themed routine.
The Baraboo team advances to the national competition in Chicago next summer and also gets a $250 gift certificate.

Library Journal Nominations

Did you know that the magazine....Library Journal (LJ)is NOT just for directors and staff with an MLS degree? I say this because LJ gives a 'Paraprofessional' award each year. YES I didn't mistype. This is to honor a 'Paraprofessional' - also known as a Library Assistant or Support Staff member. Below is the information - Just thought I would share that there is information out there for Support staff. Thanks!

Way to go Library Journal!!

Paraprofessional of the Year Nomination Guidelines

Deadline: January 19, 2009

Library Journal will honor one support staffer with its tenth annual Paraprofessional of the Year award in its March 1, 2009, 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 e-mailed to akim@reedbusiness.com.

Nominations sent through regular mail should be addressed to:

Ann Kim
c/o Library Journal
360 Park Avenue South.
New York, NY 10010.

Please note: the postmark deadline for all nominations is Monday, January 19, 2009.

Library Manager Position available

Library Manager Position Available ~
Bristol Library

The Bristol Library is currently accepting resumes for Library
Manager. Bristol is a small 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, 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 bachelors 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 the following email address
bristollibrarydirector@pls-net.org
<mailto:bristollibrarydirector@pls-net.org>. Deadline for submittals is
at the close of business hours on November 21,2008.

Don't forget!

Don't forget to Vote today!

This has nothing to do with being a library assistant ~
It just has to do with being a US citizen.

Thanks!

HELP NEEDED

Help needed!
I know I know........I'm asking alot here but - Libraries across New York State need your help.

I would like to see a whole car load of Library Assistants (AKA Support staff, clerk, ect..) go to this rally. No bus ride so we aren't 'Stuck' in Albany until everyone is back on the bus. We leave as soon as the rally is done and our car is loaded.

Here is how you can help.
NYLA is planning a Rally in Albany for Tues. Nov. 18 at 1pm. This is the
day the Legislature is being called in for a special session which may
result in even further budget cuts. Right now the powers-that-be in
Albany are sitting on $26 million in library aid! That's OUR money and
we desperately need it. And we certainly don't want any further cuts.

So -- I am looking for volunteers to spend a day on the Thruway :-)
and an hour or so in Albany. We need to have at least 250 people from
around the state in order to make a satisfactory noise and impression.

We would need to leave the Canandaigua area around 9:30 a.m. and could probably be back
between 5-6 pm.

Please email me me at hjensen@pls-net.org is this is something can help with.
It's a matter of the amount of people. You won't need to get up and talk to anyone.

Please help!

Confussion about bags

If you attended the 2008 Fall Support Staff workshop and did NOT receive a bag a goodies from the workshop, please email me at hjensen@pls-net.org
I have been reading the survey results and someone thought her co-worker who attended the workshop didn't receive a bag. We wanted EVERYONE to get a bag.
We had two different bags available.
If you were one of the first 25 people signed up to attend, you received something extra in your bag. Those bags were identify with a blue ribbon. Other wise, you should have received a bag without a ribbon.

Thank you!
I'm attaching a picture of the bags.

Fall Support Staff workshop - summary

Fall Support Staff Workshop Summary

October 24^th, 2008, was the 4^th annual Pioneer Library System Fall Support Staff Workshop. This is a unique workshop for the Pioneer Library System in the fact that it’s run by, and for, Support Staff only.

This workshop was started after I attended my first NYSLAA conference in Rochester. I was so impressed at how Support Staff could come together, learn information about their field of work and network with other Library Assistants.

This year we offered 3 different programs in our workshop. We started the day by having Melissa Correia, Librarian from the Geneva Public Library, speak to us about a data base called ‘NoveList’. NoveList is a reader’s advisory database. She taught everyone how to help their patrons to find what to read next. After a quick break, we had Chris Kovar, from a non-profit organization called ‘Whole Me, Inc’, speak to everyone about Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing patrons. I first heard Chris speak at the 2008 NYSLAA conference in Liverpool and liked her so much that I had her come and speak at our workshop. At the end of the morning, we raffled off 2 gifts baskets. One basket had 2 caramel apples, an MP3 player and a beautiful blanket. The second basket had a handmade scarf, MP3 player, leather bag, gift certificates for coffee and much, much more. Every item in each of the baskets was donated.

Our last workshop was about Blogging and was presented by Linsday Stratton, Trainer from the Pioneer Library System. This workshop was held during lunch. Attendees learned what is important in a blog and how simple it is to create a blog for their library.

This year, each attendee received a bag from Baker & Taylor, filled with different information about NYSLAA, NYLA, ALA, Rochester Regional Library Council – Library Assistants Group, Bookmarks from Gaylord ~ Highsmith ~ Associates and NYLA, pen & post it notes from Vernon Library Supplies, and magazines from Library Journal and Archival. After signing into the workshop, they received a packet of information containing the agenda, blogs and websites of local interests, a list of other workshops available in the Rochester area, list of donations received, and a website address for a survey to fill out from Survey Monkey. Each attendee also received chocolate and a pack of Post-it Notes with a handmade cover on it.

We also had several very special donations. ALA donated 3 ALA/NYLA joint memberships and NYSLAA donated 4 ‘new’ memberships. These memberships were given away as door prizes. Other door prizes were 5, $25 gift cards to a varity of different local locations.

Thank you to everyone who helped and a special
Thank you to everyone who attended!

Your voice is needed

From PLS list serv - Jennifer Morris

Hello all,
as I mentioned at the Annual Dinner and again at the System meeting,
NYLA is planning a Rally in Albany for Tues. Nov. 18 at 1pm. This is the
day the Legislature is being called in for a special session which may
result in even further budget cuts. Right now the powers-that-be in
Albany are sitting on $26 million in library aid! That's OUR money and
we desperately need it. And we certainly don't want any further cuts.

So -- I am looking for volunteers to spend a day on the Thruway :-)
and an hour or so in Albany. We need to have at least 250 people from
around the state in order to make a satisfactory noise and impression.
There will be at least 10 of us from PLS including some trustees, but we
need more people!

At this point I think we will carpool rather than get a bus. We would
need to leave the Cdga area around 9:30 a.m. and could probably be back
between 5-6 pm.

I know it's asking a lot to take a day out of your hectic schedule,
but we can make a powerful statement to the Legislature by showing up!

Thanks.

Basket fundraiser

We are selling chances for two gift baskets that will be given away on Friday, October 24.
Tickets are 6 for $5 or $1 for 1.
If you would like to buy tickets, you can either purchase them from Heidi or Kathryn at PLS this week OR Friday morning the day of the Fall Support Staff Workshop.
Thanks!

Tip # 9 & 10

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Tips 9 & 10 (the last of the tips)

Tip #9

Vary tasks. Change your tasks every hour or two. For example if you are working on a spreadsheet change after a couple of hours to answering emails or to working in a word document. Consider interspersing non-computer tasks such as filing, copying, phone calls, etc. In this way you will vary movements in your body and avoid repetitive motions over a long period of time.

Tip #10

Check your posture. It is very common for those who work at computers to round their back, roll their shoulders forward, bend their elbows out to the sides and extend their neck forward. These positions will lead to injury. The more time spent in these positions – the greater the chance of injury. Be sure to sit up straight with your torso right over your hips – keep your head neck and spine in one line. Lift your collar bones and broaden through your chest. Put a sticky note on you computer to remind yourself to check your posture every 30 minutes.

The count is growning!

Hi Everyone!!

The PLS Fall Support Staff Workshop attendance count is growing. We are up to 49 registered attendees. My goal this year is 55! So........if you know anyone who hasn't signed up and should....send them my way!

Again this year, each attendee will receive a bag of goodies.

See you all next Friday!!

Practical uses for Director's Station

Contrary to the name, Director's Station isn't just for directors, nor is it just for statistical reports - it can be used by all staff to help manage a number of important library tasks.
An example of just one of the task it can perform is located in this weeks PLS notes. (October 6th, 2008)
This was written by Lindsay Stratton from PLS -
If you have any questions for concerns regarding Director's Station, please feel free to write Lindsay an email (lstratton@pls-net.org)
Also....
If you don't have the opportunity to read PLS notes, send me an email (hjensen@pls-net.org) and I'll put one in delivery for you.

Storytelling Day!

The Newark Public Library is sponsoring a full day celebration of
Storytelling. It includes a free session for children, followed by
fee-based activities: lunch with storytellers, workshops, tea and dinner.

See attached poster.

Contact the Newark Public Library at 315-331-4370 for registration
information.

Oakland Library Assistants seeks to innovate and excite

This is a great article about a Library Assistant in California who is going above and beyond his normal job duties. I think we all can appreciate and learn alittle something from a person like this.
Yes...it's a few years old but it's still worth reading.
Enjoy!!

Check it out at -
http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_qn4176/is_/ai_n16187879

NYSLAA Offices available

Nominations are being sought for the following Offices: Vice President, Membership Secretary, and Recording Secretary. Please access the link at: http://nyslaa.org/nominations.html . A brief description of each office will be found on this page. The Nomination Form can be found at the bottom of the page. The deadline to submit a nomination is Wednesday, October 15th. Please feel free to contact me at: dkuhner@sals.edu or by mail at:

Donna Kuhner, NYSLAA Corresponding Secretary

58 E. Fulton St.

Gloversville, NY 12078

Thank you and I'm looking forward to hearing from you.

Donna

Donna Kuhner

Principal Library Clerk

Gloversville Public Library

58 E. Fulton Street

Gloversville, New York 12078

(518) 725-2819

From Pam Dibble

~2008 NYSLAA Conference Report~

by- Pam Dibble, Macedon Public Library
submited 9/17/08

Notes from NYSLAA Conference ------- 6/2/08

By Pam Dibble

Save energy/ Save Money workshop was very informative. There were lots of different things you can do. The big thing now is the energy saving light bulbs but you just have to be careful on how you discard them. Everyone who took the workshop received a energy saving kit. This was done by Steve Chandler.

The genealogy workshop was done by Holly Sammons from Liverpool Library. We were given lots of good sights to help with finding past family members. If you are interested let me know.

The rain garden/rain catchers was presented by Cooperative Extension of Onondaga County. I learned how rain gardens help with conserving water, recharging groundwater, creating habitat for birds and butterflies and making rain barrels from recycled materials. This was a very interesting workshop.

The fourth workshop was preparing for preschoolers. This was done by Amber Basham Robson aka Mrs. Bee. This was a very energetic and fun presentation. It is always good to get suggestions of new books to try. It is also good to get new ideas.

The conference was fun and full of ideas.

Tip #8

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Tip #8

Take 5 minutes every hour to move. You were born to move! Your body needs movement to stay healthy. Take five minutes every hour to get up and move around or do a few exercises at your desk to relieve tension in your hands, arms, shoulders and back.

Tip #7

~Carpal Tunnel Syndrome ~

Tip # 7

Minimize your time directly on a lap top if possible. Consider using an external mouse, full size screen and full size keyboard. Plug these into your laptop ports whenever you can to put you in the right posture and avoid injuries.

did you know?

September is Library Card Sign-up Month - a time to remind parents and kids that a library card is the most important school supply of all.

More info. on Kansas City

This was another post to the NYSLAA list.
More fun information!
Enjoy!!

Hello.

I'm fortunate enough to live and work in Kansas City where this parking
garage is located. Here are some more views of our award-winning design.
Everyone really likes it and thinks it's great fun. There was a contest
and vote to nominate the book titles to be used. The library in Cardiff,
Wales also uses this format, but their books look more like paperbacks.
We like the classics!

http://www.segd.org/awards/2005/13_kc_lib.html

Laura Budy
Bundyl@umkc.edu

Kansas City Library Parking Garage

Hi Everyone!
I was sent a link on the NYSLAA list serv. It was to a Flickr page with a picture of the parking garage in Kansas City.
I did check it out and YES...It's a real thing!
I confirmed it on the Kansas City Library Home page. It's among their library pictures on Flickr.
AMAZING!
It has to be one of the best ways to advertise I've ever seen.
So...I just wanted to share!


http://www.kclibrary.org/

Library Manager Position available

Cordelia A. Greene Library
Library Manager
(Part Time 30-35 hours per week)

Qualifications: Associates degree
Computer literacy
Ability to work effectively in a public service environment.

Responsibilities include:
Management of all aspects of the library.
Preparation/Presentation of all administrative reporting.
Plan/Present age appropriate Library programs for all patrons.
Stay abreast of current public library services and trends.
Actively participate, consult and cooperate with the Pioneer Library System.

Support/Initiate fund raising opportunities.

Compensation commensurate with level of experience and qualifications.
Please submit cover letter and resume to:
Cordelia A. Greene Library
P.O. Box 208

Castile, NY 14427

Inquiries should be directed to Mark Barber at (585) 237-9103

Deadline for submission: 9/30/2008

Tip #6

Tip # 6

Use a headset or speakerphone for phone time.

If you are going to use the phone while keying and don’t use a headset or speakerphone you’ll end up raising a shoulder too high resulting in poor posture and strain. Get a good headset or speaking; keying and talking at the same time will be much easier and healthier too! Minimize time on laptops. You can’t beat laptops for portability but they cause a lot of ergonomic challenges. Laptops usually have a keyboard that is too small, a screen that is not a the right height and people tend to rest their wrists on the keyboard which leads to wrist problems. Additionally, people tend to have their elbows way out at the sides and move their neck forward to see the screen – a posture that leads to all kinds of repetitive motion injuries.

Library Assistant / Technician Training Program

This information was received from NYLA

Library Assistant / Technician Training Program
One-Week Course
September 22-27, 2008

This certificate, non-credit program is sponsored by NYLA in cooperation with Ulster County Community College. It is open to individuals already working or newly hired in libraries, or people interested in working in libraries. To receive a certificate from UCCC, the individual must take all four courses.

Introduction
Monday, September 22, 6pm - 9pm
A survey of libraries, from their beginnings in pre-history to the dynamic institutions they are today. This section introduces students who plan to or are currently working in libraries to the various aspects of library work, to the functions of a library, and to the distinctive role of the library assistant/technician. Attention is given to the development of libraries so that the student may be aware of what a library is, how it has evolved, and what types are found today. The current employment situation is also discussed. This section includes an overview of all library areas and includes Public/Circulation Services, Reference, and Technical Services.

Public / Circulation Services
Tuesday, September 23, 6pm - 9pm and Thursday, September 25, 6pm - 9pm
An introduction to public services in libraries. This section includes circulation services and systems, reserve and special collections, shelving and stack maintenance, customer service, public relations, confidentiality and security.

Reference

Saturday, September 27, 9am - 12pm

An introduction to reference and information services in libraries. Topics include the organization of information, the reference question, and search strategies. Electronic reference products, trends in reference work, library/bibliographic instruction, information literacy, and types of reference materials are discussed. The role of the library technician in this aspect of library service is explored.

Technical Services
Wednesday, September 24, 6 pm - 9 pm and Saturday, September 27, 1pm - 4pm

An overview of the technical processing services that are carried out in libraries to ensure the growth, development, and bibliographic control of all collections of materials. Students will be introduce to the procedures required to acquire, catalog, process, and preserve materials in all formats. This section will also consider the impact computers have had on the technical services of libraries.

Register online at http://www.sunyulster.edu or call Ulster County Community College at 845-339-2025.
The cost is $299.

Tip #5

Tip # 5

Adjust chair properly. Make sure your feet are on the floor and that your shins are at a right angle to your thighs. Your thighs should be parallel to the floor. The seat should be in a neutral position. Those with larger shoulders or upper bodies can tilt the seat back just a little. You also want to select a chair that has a good lumbar support for your lower back and posture. Select a chair with removable arm rests or without arm rests because they interfere with correct posture as people end up leaning on the arm rests.

Have you signed up yet?

The PLS Fall Support Staff workshop is only a little over 6 weeks away.
Have you signed up yet to attend?
The following libraries are sending support staff -

From Livingston County -
Wadsworth/Geneseo

From Ontario County-
Bristol
Geneva
Honeoye
Phelps
Victor

From Wayne County-
Macedon
Marion
Newark
Palmyra
Sodus
Williamson

From Wyoming County -
Arcade

The following libraries have not yet registered someone to attend this awesome training event:

Avon ~ Ontario
Bell/Nunda ~ Red Creek
Caledonia ~ Rose
Dansville ~ Walworth
Lima ~ Wolcott
Livonia ~ Cordelia A. Green/ Castile
Mount Morris ~ Eagle / Bliss
Allens Hill ~ Gainsville / SilverSprings
Bloomfield ~ Perry
Clifton Springs ~ Stevens Memorial / Attica
Gorham ~ Warsaw
Naples ~ Wyoming
Red Jacket
Wood
Clyde

Tip #4

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Tip # 4

Get a chair that rolls easily. Many people have chairs that are difficult to roll on carpet. The result is that you dig your feet in and grab the desk with a lot a force to move forward or back resulting in strain in your hands, arms, shoulders and back which can lead to injury. Either get a chair that rolls easily or put a pad under your chair that makes it easier to move the chair. Note that hard casters on hard floors can cause the chair to move too easily and you can find yourself unexpectedly on the floor! Match the chair casters to the floor surface – carpet casters on carpet, softer casters on hard floors.

Tip # 3

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome -

Tip # 3

Match the mouse to your hand and tasks. Make sure your mouse fits your hand well – it should fit comfortably over the mouse. If the mouse is too small, your palm will be off the mouse causing you to pivot at the wrist which leads to stress in your fingers, wrist, elbow and shoulders . Also get a mouse that makes frequent tasks easier. For example, if you are doing a lot of spread sheets you’ll want a laser mouse as they have the greatest accuracy control - the marble mice don’t work well in this application because they don’t have the placement accuracy.

New Name

Did you hear??
Twiki has a new name!

PLUM (Pioneer Library Users Manual)
Designed by Sue Burns from the Honeoye

Congratulations Sue on creating such an awesome new name!

https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAlHgu0UihjiSQF5LXLreI8pHeHXtRlz9juu2EAcycjIXZtKQfm3UTkYmEXiStzIk4DJA4TkLYK3frIyg1DHwDUWdHMjEo7yrLs1TETIbQVz5q-tSqb-stEkfN4aO_ZXWbxicIWGJ1y0Q/s1600-h/TWikiName-plum.png

Tip # 2

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome ~

Tip #2
Adjust your workstation to fit you. Your monitor should be adjusted so that your eyes are level with the very top of the viewable screen. Position the keyboard directly in front of you. If you are using a copy stand make sure that it is right along side of your screen and directly in line with your field of vision. Accessories such as the phone or calculator that are frequently used should be placed within easy reach. These setups will minimize repetitive motions that will lead to injuries.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome – How to Save Your Wrists!

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome ~

How to Save Your Wrists!

by Howard VanEs, M.A.
HR FactFinder

In fact, the risk of a muscle-skeletal injury for someone who works on a computer four or more hours per day is nine times greater that it is for a person who spends just one hour per day on the computer.

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a repetitive motion injury to an actual tunnel located in the wrist in which nerves and blood vessels run through. This injury is caused by a number of interrelated factors. These include period of time a person has been at the computer doing a specific task, poor posture, lack of breaks, existing medical conditions and other stressors in one’s life.

Symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome can include, pain, tingling and or numbing in the wrists and fingers, lack of strength, and less movement in the fingers, hands, elbows or shoulders.

The good news is that you don’t have to give up your day job or night job for that matter! Most cases carpal tunnel syndrome can either be avoided completely or the symptoms significantly reduced with a little planning.

Below are 1 of 10 tips to help prevent carpal tunnel syndrome and make your time at the computer more enjoyable and productive. A new tip will be posted over the next few weeks.

Tip 1 ~

Keying at the right level. Your want your keyboard positioned so that your shoulders are naturally relaxed and your forearms form right angles with your upper arms – parallel to the floor. Your wrists should be directly inline with the forearms and your fingers a little lower than your wrists when placed on the keys. Be sure to select a keyboard that matches the width of your upper body.

Training announcement

Second Annual Library Assistants' Day
October 16, 2008
9am - 3:30pm
Holiday Inn, Carrier Circle
Syracuse, NY

Prelimary schedule includes:
General Session:
True colors: Discovering your personality
Break Out Sessions:
Social Networking: Blogging and Wikis
Career Skills: Building your resume
Cataloging
Other possible topics include:
Information Commons: How to deal with space change
How to keep up with library trends
The single service desk

Lunch and refreshments are included in the registration fee.

Save the date! Registration information coming soon!!
This is an all day workshop co-sponsored by:
CLRC
Nylink
RRLC
South Central Regional Library Council

Glen Iris 5k - who's walking??

Ok...the Glen Iris 5k is one week from this coming Saturday.

How many of you are planning on walking with me this year?
This is an important fund-raiser for the Castile Public Library.

If you are walking - please let me know.

I (Heidi) will be staying in Letchworth camping so after the walk I'll have horsdoeuvres' if anyone is interested. :-)

Fall 2008 Workshop

Hello everyone!
As of today (Aug. 26th), we have 23 people signed up for the Fall 2008 Support Staff Workshop.
The first 25 people to sign up receive EXTRA goodies this year!
And speaking of goodies.....
I have been able to get some fun stuff for each attendee again this year. Vendors are more than happy to show their support for such an awesome networking/training event.

If you haven't signed up yet - do it today!

Job Opportunity

Children’s Library Assistant

Southeast Steuben County Library, Corning, N.Y.

The Southeast Steuben County Library is currently recruiting for a full time position in the Children’s Dept. We seek a creative, energetic, reliable individual to work with the Children’s Services Coordinator and staff to enhance already excellent children’s services through planning, conducting and advocating for services that meet the needs of children in our service area, which includes the City of Corning and six towns: Campbell, Caton, Town of Corning, Erwin, Hornby and Lindley. Candidates must have reliable transportation. Applicants must have an Associates Degree or better and at least 3 years experience working with children in a public library, school or child care setting. Early childhood education experience and knowledge children’s literature desired. Public speaking skills, storytelling experience and computer skills required.

Send a cover letter and resume to: Southeast Steuben County Library; Attention: Pauline Emery; 300 Nasser Civic Center Plaza, Suite 101; Corning, NY 14830. Applications received after Sept. 8, 2008 will not be considered. No Telephone Calls. No Email applications considered. Website: www.stls.org/corning

Job Opportunity

Posted on behalf of BRYANT & STRATTON COLLEGE

LOCATION: Greece Campus--150 Bellwood Drive, Rochester, NY 14606
REPORTS TO: Librarian/Market Academic Dean

RESPONSIBILITIES:
.
Staff main circulation desk
.
Assist students, faculty, and staff with research requests
. Administer and proctor tests
. Perform duties and projects as directed by the Librarian
and the Academic Dean

Starting Date: September 2, 2008.

Evening and Saturday schedule during regular library hours:
Monday --Thursday 5:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Saturday 9:00 a.m. -1:00 p.m.

Salary: $10.00/hour

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Bachelor's Degree required
Library experience preferred

SEND RESUME TO:

Bryant & Stratton College - Greece Campus
150 Bellwood Drive, Rochester, NY 14606
ATTN: Carol Phillips, Librarian
caphillips@bryantstratton.edu

Job Opportunity

Posted on behalf of the Finger Lakes Health Systems Agency, information obtained from the RRLC list serv.

Finger Lakes Health Systems Agency (FLHSA), a not-for-profit health
services research and planning organization, seeks a full-time
librarian/administrative assistant (37.5 hrs/wk).

Librarian duties include maintaining the Agency's library, electronic
catalogue and resource inventories; conducting literature searches and
developing bibliographies of specialized collections.

Administrative Assistant duties include performing a variety of
secretarial duties, such as typing and composing reports and memos,
maintaining computer based and paper files, transcribing program
minutes, maintaining data bases, answering office inquiries, and perform
administrative tasks.

Technical Skills:
Must be able to appropriately catalogue library materials; use word
processing, spreadsheet, and data base software; and perform internet
searches as requested by staff. Expertise in Microsoft office products a
must.

Education:
Prefer baccalaureate or master's degree in library science or equivalent
experience.

Send resumes to Kathie Pierce, Operations Manager, Finger Lakes Health
Systems Agency, 1150 University Avenue, Rochester, NY 14607 or email to
kathiepierce@flhsa.org.

Have you??

Have you signed up for the Fall Support Staff workshop yet?
Have your co-workers?
If not - sign up today!

The workshop is Friday, October 24th at the PLS office.
First 25 people to sign up receive EXTRA goodies!

I hope to see LOTS and LOTS of you at this great training/networking opportunity.

Interesting library news

The Ames Public Library and Iowa State University Library are both located in Ames, IA and are only two miles apart from each other. And for years the only way to interlibrary loan books to each other was to send them in the US Postal Service mail which meant these items traveled through Des Moines, which is 31 miles away.

These libraries have recently changed its ILL delivery service from US mail to bicycle delivery. The bicycle delivery service is run by a company called Bikes at work. http://www.bikesatwork.com/

Using the bike delivery service has improved the delivery speed ("from 4.63 days to 3.13 days"), lowered the cost ("the cost per item is just 48 cents, while the average parcel -not always one item- last year was $2.48") and increased the types of materials that can be exchanged (notably CDs and DVDs can now be loaned).

The run is profitable for the delivery company, cheaper for the libraries, and better for the environment. What's not to like about this?

Raffle Basket

We will be raffling off a gift basket again this year at the Fall Support Staff Workshop.
Proceeds will go to help pay for interested support staff membership to either NYLA, ALA and/or NYSLAA.

Look for pictures of the basket next month!

Speaking of the Fall Support Staff Workshop.....
HAVE YOU SIGNED UP YET??

Sign up today - Be one of the first 25 people to sign up and receive EXTRA goodies that day of the workshop!

Job Opportunity

Library Clerk position:

Library clerk--15 hours per week.
Must have good computer and people skills.
Send resume to Naples Library, PO Box 157, Naples, NY 14512
(585-374-2757).

Need a new book cart??

Is your bookcart looking a little worse for wear? Is it time for a new one?
Demco is having a 'Replace my booktruck contest'.
It's very simple to enter. All contest rules and how to enter are located on the Demco website.
If you decide to enter - please send me a copy of your bookcart and I'll post it to the blog!

www.demco.com

Annual Fall Support Staff workshop info.

Hear it here first!!!

The Annual Fall Support Staff workshop is set and ready to go -
Here is the information:

Workshop starts at 9:15am
We will have 3 different speakers.
The first two will be before lunch. They will talk about ~
Novelist - Different things you can use to help your patrons find what they are looking for!
and
How to talk to your Deaf & Hard of Hearing Patrons.
We will finish up at Noon with the first two workshop after that we will have lunch and during lunch we will discuss Blogging 101.

An information sheet will be sent to each library. If you don't get one, please email me and let me know.
Remember - You need to sign up on the Calendar of events located at OWWL.org for this workshop.
I hope to see all of you there!!!

OPAC tip

At the OWWLug meeting today we all learned something new that I thought would be nice to share with everyone else! It's fun to learn new things!!!
Did you know that when patrons place 'holds' in the OPAC it does make a difference when they log in?
Let me try and explain:
If your patron logs into the OPAC BEFORE they start to place their hold - the system will see the library card number and associate it with a member library.
If your patron doesn't log in first - then the system see the patron as a PLSHQ patron.
They can still place the hold it just determines where they are on the holds list.
This is only a problem if they are placing a hold on an item that their home library owns and if it's a popular item. In other words, they may not be first on the list for your library because the computer recognizes them as PLSHQ not their home library.

So - Help your patrons!!
Remind them to Log in FIRST before placing holds from their home computer.

Do any of these belong to your library?

The Cataloging department at PLS has a collection of items that don't have any library markings in them.
If any of these belong to your library, please let Heidi (hjensen@pls-net.org) know and she'll get them cataloged and sent back to you.
Thank you and as always - PLEASE PLEASE remember to mark every item with your library name on it before putting in delivery.

* Eragon - Xbox (game)
* Fighting fire with fire by Bob Donnelly (Book)
* Through the fire by Diane Noble (Guidepost book)
* They wore no medals by Marvel B. Deliman (Book)
* Gilligans Island - First Season (DVD set)
* Petticoat Juncion (DVD)
* Tow bits and pepper (DVD)
* Secret of the Andes (VHS)
* Algonquin out loud (CD)
* Got questions? by Dr. Louis J. Pantuosco Jr. (Book)

Job Opportunity

Another Library Assistant position available:

Help Wanted - Newark Library
Part time Library Clerk
Schedule includes morning, afternoon and evening hours as well as Saturdays. # of hours not yet set - (minimum 15)

Skills required: Comfort with computers, knowledge of the organization of libraries, a pleasant customer service style and the ability to multitask. Experience with workflows a definite PLUS.

Benefits: Working with a great staff, serving an appreciative community, sick leave, vacation and NYS retirement option.

Applications available at main desk at the library or through e-mail inquiry.

Job Opportunity

Palmyra is looking for a Library Clerk.

The job would be about 12 hr./week & will include a couple of afternoons, one or two evenings & about one Sat. a month

If you are interested, please contact Patricia Baynes at:
pbaynes@pls-net.org

GREAT article to read

What Libraries/Librarians can learn from Starbuck's Fall.

This is a great article that Betsy Morris brought to my attention.
We all need to remember the importance of GOOD (ok EXCELLENT) customer service!

Check it out at:
http://dbl.lishost.org/blog/2008/07/11/what-librarians-can-learn-from-starbucks-fall/

Job Opportunity

Here is a job opportunity that I wanted to share with everyone -

Gorham is looking for 1 - 2 new part time clerks. If you are interested, please contact Diane Hovey at Gorham. dhovey@pls-net.org

RRLC meeting notice

I would like to invite and encourage all Library Assistants from the RRLC area to attend the next RRLC Library Assistants Group meeting.
Our next meeting will be held on Tuesday, August 5th at 9:15am at the RRLC office which is located in Packett's Landing in Fairport, NY.
If you would like a copy of the agenda planned, please let me know.
Thanks,
Heidi

Excellent website just for Support Staff

Did you know there is an on-line journal for Support staff?
I have been a member of this organization for a few years now and I just love reading the articles that are written for Support Staff.

The name of the on-line journal is:
Associates : The Electronic Library Support Staff Journal

Its free!
Talk about awesome information for Support Staff and you don't need to pay a thing!
Check it out at:

http://associates.ucr.edu/journal/?page_id=206

Here's what I'm working on

Hi Everyone!

I just want to keep everyone in the loop (so to speak).
Here is what I'm "working" on for the 2008 Fall Support Staff workshop.
Working is the key word. I don't have anything set yet so please be patient. I hope to have everything finalized by the end of next week.

3 different topics will be covered -
The first two will be in the morning:
Ergonomics - How to sit properly - how to stand properly - chair height - simple exercises - ALL to help prevent workplace injuries.
and
How to communicate with the deaf and hard- of - hearing patrons.
Learn the best way to communicate and help those patrons feel welcome to your library.

The last topic will be discussed over lunch -
Blogging - Who should do it, Why, and how easy it is anyways??

Please mark your calendars and I hope to see you on on Friday, October 24th.

PLS Intranet/TWiki re-branding Contest!

The Great PLS Intranet/TWiki re-branding contest!!

We’ve (sort of) gotten used to referring to TWiki, and some people still say Intranet, but what does it mean, anyway???

What do you think our “source of PLS knowledge”, “user’s manual”, “online file cabinet” should be called?

The contest

• Suggest a new name
• Suggest a logo (make a sketch, find some clip art—it doesn’t have to be a master artwork, just enough to convey your idea!)

“Rules”

• Be a PLS employee
• Submit as many ideas as you want by July 31, 2008
• Have fun!

Judging

• Entries will be reviewed and selected by the TWiki Committee.
• The winner will be unveiled at the August 15 System Meeting.

Prizes

• Bragging rights for a long time!
• (…And if you put your name on your ideas—Rice Krispie treats made with homemade marshmallows!)

Reminder:
All entries need to be submitted by July 31, 2008 to Lindsday Stratton.