Blog

2013 Conference Registration Now Open

The Conference Planning Committee is pleased to announce the opening of registration for the September 25-28, 2013 ARSL Annual Conference to be held at the Doubletree in downtown Omaha, NE. Start the process by following the link listed on the registration page of our website, here: Registration Overview Page.

Be sure to take advantage of early bird member pricing (membership pays for itself if you’re coming to conference), and also the special events that will soon sell out, such as:

  • Preconferences scheduled for Wednesday, September 25th (featuring 1 full day and 3 half-day options)
  • Tours (featuring your choice of a full day tour of several local sites filled with history, shopping, and a famous restaurant for lunch, or an evening ghost tour!)

Our conference will feature the following keynote speakers, in addition to a wide variety of breakout sessions:

  • Thursday opening keynote: Lee Rainie of the Pew Research Center
  • Thursday luncheon: Mary Beth Stenger, winner of the 2013 Best Small Library in America Award
  • Friday opening keynote: Joseph Starita, award winning author and American Indian history scholar
  • Friday Author Luncheon: Craig Johnson, author of the Longmire series, featured on A&E’s hit television program
  • Saturday closing keynote: Sally Gardner Reed, Executive Director of United for Libraries

In addition to all of these excellent speakers, we invite you to join us the evening of Wednesday, September 25th from 7:00-9:00 pm at the Omaha Public Library (just over a block from the conference center) for a welcome reception complete with music, an array of foods originating in Nebraska, a cash bar, and excellent company. Conference registration includes all meals (this also includes the Author Luncheon) from Wednesday evening’s reception through Saturday’s brunch), with the exception of Thursday and Friday evening, when you are invited to sign up for the “dine-around” of your choice at conference. Thinking of bringing a guest, or the whole family? This year, we are offering a meal package option for the conference, and also an author luncheon ticket for those who are not registering for the full conference. Your guest is welcome to join you at our meal events, thanks to this provision. There is plenty to see and do in the area, and our hotel offers a free shuttle to local attractions. Take a look at www.visitomaha.com for more information.

With a low registration fee, conference rate hotel rooms at $99 per night, free wireless Internet, and a free airport shuttle, this is a great opportunity to network with peers from all over the country, and take in a conference devoted entirely to the needs of those from small and/or rural libraries.

We hope to see you in Omaha!

Tena Hanson
2013 Conference Co-Chair on behalf of the Conference Planning Committee

Reference Assistant (PT) – Knox, IN

Today’s Date: 04/11/2013

Job Closing Date:

Job Title: Reference Assistant

Anticipated hours per week: Part Time

Institution Starke County Public Library System
Library Location: Knox, IN

Website (if applicable): www.starkecountylibrary.org

Duties / Job description: The Starke County Public Library is seeking applicants for a part-time (approximately 15-20 hours per week) Reference Assistant. Responsibilities include answering reference questions, assisting patrons using public access computers, processing interlibrary loan requests, and other duties as assigned.

Qualifications: High school diploma or GED. Must have Indiana State Librarian Certification 6 (LC6) or have the ability to obtain this certification. Must be proficient at typing, computer skills including knowledge of productivity software, and be able to use online databases. Strong customer service and communication skills required. Experience working a library service desk preferred.

Will out of state candidates be considered? Yes

Salary Range: $10.00 – $12.00/hr

How to apply? Submit cover letter and resume to Ellen Pitcher, Reference Librarian, by mail to Starke County Public Library, 152 W. Culver Road, Knox, IN 46534, by fax at (574) 772-4207, or by email at epitcher@starkecountylibrary.org.

To post job openings, please see Job Submissions.

Library Director — Lake Elmo, MN

Today’s Date: 04/10/2013

Job Closing Date: 04/19/2013

Job Title: Librarian/Library Director

Anticipated hours per week: 40

Institution Lake Elmo Public Library
Library Location: 3637 Lake Elmo Ave. N.Lake Elmo, MN 55042

Website (if applicable): lakeelmopubliclibrary.org

Duties / Job description: SUMMARY OF POSITION: This forty hour a week position requires hands-on day to day management of the Lake Elmo Public Library under the direction of the Library Board through its five committees, which are: Technology and Collection, Outreach and Programming, Facilities, Personnel and Volunteer Coordination, and Finance. As the only employee, the Librarian/Director will collaborate with each of the committees and the volunteer staff to meet the needs of the patrons.

Responsibilities:
1. Keep accurate records of expenditures and income from donations and other sources.
2. Manage library funds with the assistance of the Finance Committee.
3. Manage and organize existing collection and plan acquisitions with the assistance of the Technology and Collection Committee.
4. Plan programs and activities with the assistance of the Outreach Committee.
5. Promote library services by speaking to community groups, including schools and business groups with the assistance of the Outreach Committee.
6. Plan for facility needs with the assistance of the Facilities Committee.
7. Collaborate with Personnel and Volunteer Coordination Committee to supervise and train volunteers.
8. Prepare written reports for Lake Elmo Public Library board meetings.
9. Attend all open Lake Elmo Public Library board meetings.
10. Advise board about the need for professional memberships and attendance of continuing education seminars and workshops for updating skills.
11. Work directly with patrons in the library and at the circulation desk on a regular basis.
12. Maintain positive relations with patrons and users of the library rooms.
13. Keep statistics for the required Minnesota annual reporting and prepare report in accordance with state guidelines.
14. Inform and advise the library board as to local, regional, state and national developments in the library field.
15. Maintain communications with other libraries in the area.
16. Prepare grant applications when opportunities are offered.

Essential Skills:
1. Ability to communicate ideas and information in both verbal and written forms.
2. Ability to organize, maintain records, plan and direct services.
3. Ability to understand financial operations and understand and plan budgets.
4. Ability to understand and operate library equipment, including copy machine, fax, computer, Nooks, Kindles and other e-books.
5. Ability to maintain records on Koha ( open source integrated library system), maintain a knowledge about Internet resources, and other electronic databases
6. Ability to work with volunteers and community on a pleasant and respectful basis.
7. Ability to utilize volunteers to accomplish the goals of the Library Board.
8. Ability to learn new processes and procedures.
9. Ability to analyze and implement library programs.

EXAMPLES OF EQUIPMENT USED: Books, library materials, step stools, ladders, basic audio/video and computer equipment, general office equipment and machines, library systems including check in and out systems, surveillance systems. HOURS: Forty hours a week with some extended hours, evenings, and weekends.

WORK ENVIRONMENT: 100% indoor work. Low hazard environment. Frequent work with the public and volunteer staff.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS: can involve, but are not limited to:
Physical dexterity:
• Sit, stand, walk or move about frequently inside on even and elevated flooring.
• Lift and carry objects or materials that may be up to 20 pounds occasionally.
• Push/pull objects 20 to 50 pounds using wheeled book cart frequently.
• Bend/squat/stoop/ or kneel while working as low as ground level to access shelving or materials.
• Climb & balance on ladders, step stools, or stairs occasionally.
Manual dexterity
• Stretch, reach, handle, and grasp materials frequently.
• Use hands, fingers, and arms to safely operate vehicle and equipment, loading/unloading materials, turn pages of books, type.
• Operation of foot and hand controls.
Seeing, Reading, Smell, and Hearing:
• See, read and understand English language in written information, instructions, and safety warnings in all forms, including handwritten, hard copy, and electronic format.
• Smelling and feeling in order to identify damaged materials.
• See near, far, depth of vision, and color for designing web pages, presentations, and reading.
Mental acuity and alertness:
• Think and apply judgment, discretion, and initiative in accomplishing work.
• Ability to do arithmetic.
• Ability to write.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED: Direction and evaluations done by Personnel Committee of the Lake Elmo Library Board. Evaluations to be based on areas of the job description with added specific duties. SUPERVISION EXERCISED: Daily coordination of volunteer duties.

Qualifications: Qualifications: Minimum: Four year degree with at least five years of library experience including cataloging, managing budgets, programming for children and adults, and working with electronic resources.
Highly Desired: MLS degree with at least five years experience in all aspects of librarianship.

Will out of state candidates be considered?

Salary Range: DOQ

How to apply? Send Resume with names of at least three references that we may contact. At least one reference must be job related.
In your cover letter, please let us know why you would like to work at the Lake Elmo Public Library.
SEND RESUME TO:
Marjorie Williams
Personnel Committee
3025 Lake Elmo Avenue North
Lake Elmo, Minnesota. 55042

To post job openings, please see Job Submissions.

Library Director – Jerome, Idaho

Today’s Date: 04/09/2013

Job Closing Date: 04/18/2013

Job Title: Library Director

Anticipated hours per week: Full Time

Institution Jerome Public Library
Library Location: Jerome, Idaho

Website (if applicable): http://www.ci.jerome.id.us/city-government/human-resources/job-listings.html

Duties / Job description: Job Opening at Jerome Public Library
Application Deadline: April 18, 2013 at 5:00 p.m.

General Statement of Duties
The City of Jerome is a dynamic organization which positively affects our citizens every day. Every position within the City is expected to be a leader within our organization, as well as in our community. This Position performs a variety of administrative and supervisory work; responsible for planning, organizing and implementing the programs and services of the library system.

Supervision Received
Works under the broad policy guidance and direction of the Jerome Public Library Board.

Supervision Exercised
Exercises administrative direction over full-time and part-time support staff, contracted or seasonal personnel either directly or through subordinate supervisors.

Examples of Work (Illustrative Only)
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
• Manage and supervise library operations to achieve goals within available resources; plan and organize workloads and staff assignments; train, motivate and evaluate assigned staff; review progress and direct changes as needed.
• Provide leadership and direction in the development of short and long range library plans; gather, interpret, and prepare data for studies, reports and recommendations; coordinate department activities with other departments and agencies as needed.
• Provide professional advice on library issues to the Library Board; make presentations to boards, commissions, civic groups and the general public.
• Create and communicate official plans, policies and procedures to staff and the general public.
• Assure that assigned areas of responsibility are performed within budget; perform cost control activities; monitor revenues and expenditures in assigned area to assure sound fiscal control; working with the Library Board prepare annual budget request; assure effective and efficient use of budgeted funds, personnel, materials, facilities, and time.
• Determine work procedures, prepare work schedules, and expedite workflow; study and standardize procedures to improve efficiency and effectiveness of operations.
• Issue written and oral instructions; assign duties and examines work for exactness, neatness, and conformance to policies and procedures.
• Maintain harmony among workers and resolve grievances; perform or assist subordinates in performing duties; adjust errors and complaints.
• Prepare a variety of studies, reports, and related information for decision-making purposes.
• Oversee the selection and general collection of books and other items contained in the library; review major selection tools; approve library purchase orders; review books, periodicals and collections which are outdated or not used, and coordinate removal and disposition.
• Coordinate library development with regard to applying for and winning grants to augment services.
• Oversee inter-library loans and in-house reference work.
• Assure that library facilities and equipment are maintained properly, and coordinate maintenance and repair functions.
• Coordinate the library program with other leisure programs, other city departments, and outside organizations such as the school district, historical society and various community-based groups.
• Review program areas, implement changes or new programs to meet library needs of the community; develop, maintain and implement a library master plan.
• Develop and implement policies, approved by the Library Board, procedures and standards for efficient and effective operation and maintenance of library operations; assure compliance with established policies and procedures.
• Promote interest in library programs through publicity, program brochures, cooperation with various community groups, and public contacts; speak before citizens groups, students and other business and civic organizations.
• Prepare and administer budget for all areas under library department; order all new and replacement equipment.
• Prepare a variety of reports and maintain necessary operating records.
• Supervise the control of, and is responsible for, all materials and supplies used in maintenance, construction and repair of the library facilities.
• Prepare cost estimates to plan and provide the improvements in the library system; oversee library improvements.
• Maintain liaison with other departments as well as state, local, and other public officials.
• Answer letters of inquiry and talk with patrons; address public and civic organizations which will inform the public of policies, procedures and the availability of facilities for public use.
• Supervise and manage the planning of new libraries and all of the amenities that would be necessary for the proper construction and maintenance of those facilities.
• Schedule, assign and oversee various special library activities throughout the year, such as reading programs etc.
• Expected to be a leader within the organization as well as in our community
• All other duties as assigned.

Other Duties and Responsibilities
• Perform a variety of miscellaneous duties such as answering the phone, running errands, picking up supplies needed for activities, making arrangements for use of library facilities, setting up tables and chairs for meetings, etc.
• Serve as a member of various city employee committees, as assigned or desired.
• Assist staff in the performance of their duties as required.

Qualifications: Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
• Thorough knowledge of the principles and practices of modern library systems and programs; thorough knowledge of library collection classification and selection techniques; considerable knowledge of equipment and facilities required in a comprehensive library system; considerable knowledge of community library needs and resources; working knowledge of the principles and practices of office management, work organization and supervision.
• Skill in operation of general office equipment, computer etc.
• Ability to plan, organize, coordinate and implement a comprehensive library system; ability to coordinate, analyze, and utilize a variety of reports and records; ability to communicate effectively, verbally and in writing.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with the Library Board, Library Foundation, Library Friends group, employees, supervisors, other agencies, and the public.

Acceptable Education and Experience
• Graduation from a college or university with a bachelor’s degree in library science, liberal arts, public administration or a closely related field, and
• Five years of progressively responsible experience in library operations, including two years in a supervisory capacity, or
• Any equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Masters degree in Library Science preferred.

Special Qualifications
• Valid state driver’s license or ability to obtain one.
• Presently be an Officer on LIBRI Consortium or able to service within 2 months of hire as an officer.

Essential Physical Abilities
• While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to walk, sit and talk or hear.
• Occasionally required to use hands to finger, handle, feel or operate objects, tools, or controls, and reach with hands and arms.
• Occasionally required to climb or balance, stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl.
• The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.
• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.

Appointees will be subject to completion of a standard probationary period.

The essential Physical Abilities described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and/or skill required of all personnel so classified. This job description is not an employment agreement and/or an expressed or implied employment contract. Management has the exclusive right to alter this job description at any time without notice.

Will out of state candidates be considered? Yes

Salary Range: Hiring Salary: $47,298-$57,684

How to apply? TO APPLY FOR THIS POSITION, PLEASE SUBMIT A COVER LETTER, RESUME, AND COMPLETED CITY OF JEROME APPLICATION TO:

City of Jerome
Human Resources Office
152 East Avenue A
Jerome, ID 83338

http://www.ci.jerome.id.us/city-government/human-resources/job-listings.html

Application is available at the above link or you may also contact the Human Resource Office at (208) 324-8189 or email iguffy@ci.jerome.id.us.

The City of Jerome is committed to providing equal employment opportunity for all persons without regard to race, color, religion, gender, age, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, veteran status, or any other applicable legally protected status. Qualified veterans who provide required documentation will be given preference in accordance with Idaho state law.

For more information about the library, you are welcome to contact:
Patty Metcalf, Director
pmetcalf@ci.jerome.id.us
(208)324-5427

To post job openings, please see Job Submissions.

April 5, 2013 Board Meeting

Association for Rural and Small Libraries

Board of Directors Meeting

Friday, April 5, 2013

AGENDA

I. Welcome and Call to Order Andrea Berstler, President

II. Consent Agenda

  • Approve Minutes of January 18, 2013
  • Current Financial Statements
  • Record results of e-mail vote approving accountant to do AUP in today’s minutes
  • Member Services Committee Report
  • Conference Committee Report
  • Partnerships  Committee Report
  • Member Development Committee Report
  • Governance Committee Report
  • Executive Committee Report
  • Nominating Committee Report

III. President’s Report

  • ARSL “Code of Ethics”
  • Strategic Plan Task Force

IV. Partnerships Committee Steve Seale, Chair

  • Affiliate Network applications from:
  • Public Library Association
  • University of North Texas
  • MOA from United States Fire Administration

V. Member Services Committee Jennifer Peterson/Tameca Beckett, Chairs

  • Discussion on cross committee communication

VI. New Business Louise Greene

  • Annual Report Discussion: Content, Design, Production

VII. PUBLIC COMMENT

Next Board Meeting – Friday, May 17, 2013, 11:30 am – 12:30 pm Eastern Time

MINUTES (yet to be approved)

Opening:  The meeting of the Board of Directors of the Association for Rural and Small Libraries was called to order by Andrea Berstler, President, at 11:38 a.m. Eastern on April 5, 2013.

Present:  Andrea Berstler, Lesley Boughton, Donna Brice, Louise Greene, Tena Hanson, Paul Healey, Carla Lehn, Lisa Lewis, Carolyn Petersen, Jennifer Peterson, Steve Seale, Gail Sheldon

Absent: Becky Heil, Tameca Beckett

Quorum Present:  Yes

Others Present: Denise Wetzel, guest. Cal Shepard, State Librarian of North Carolina.

Consent Agenda

The minutes of the January 18, 2013 meeting were approved without changes or corrections. Motion to move the Finance Committee report to the Consent Agenda; motion carried. Motion to approve the Consent Agenda; motion carried.

Results of vote by email to approve AUP audit by accountant: unanimous approval by quorum of the board.

President’s Report

Discussion of ARSL “Code of Ethics” was tabled until a future meeting.

A Strategic Plan Task Force will be an ad hoc committee, taking the results of the board retreat in Chicago (March 2013) to create a strategic plan.  The plan will be presented to the Board at the annual meeting in Omaha, September 2013.

Lori Womack resigned from the board effective immediately.  According to the by-laws, the President can appoint a new board member as a replacement.  Andrea will pass the opening to the nominating committee to be filled by election.

Cal Shepard, State Librarian of North Carolina, accepted the opening as the COSLA liaison as the term of Lesley Boughton, Wyoming State Librarian and current COSLA representative, is ending.  There will be a transition period between 9/2013 and 9/2014 and then a reappointment for this position.

Gail Sheldon offered to represent the ARSL Board of directors as a member of the Pew Internet & American Life Advisory Committee.  An additional representative from the board may be requested.

Partnership Committee

Motions to accept Affiliate Status applications from the Public Library Association and the University of North Texas were moved and accepted.

An MOA from the United States Fire Administration was discussed; motion made to approve and accepted.

A web presence for Affiliates on the ARSL website was discussed; moved and accepted.

Additional applications for Affiliate Status will be presented at future meetings.

Member Services Committee

Tameca Beckett and Jennifer Peterson are serving as co-chairs for an orderly transition of leadership.

The need for cross-committee communication among committee chairs was discussed.  A process was discussed for producing website content in a step-wise fashion.  A flowchart with a timeline was recommended.  Messages should proceed, with approval from the board, to the website and then to the member listserv with links to the new content.

New Business

A second annual report will be produced with content and design similar to the first annual report. The production will be on schedule with distribution at the conference in Omaha, September 2013.  Cal Shepard offered that the first report was informative and succinct.

Public Comment: None

Meeting Adjourned: 12:22 p.m.  Eastern

Next Board Meeting – Friday, May 17, 2013, 11:30 am – 12:30 pm Eastern Time

Respectfully submitted,

Louise W. Greene, Secretary

See also Board Minutes Archive

Community Engagement: Small Libraries Go Big

By Linn Haugestad Edvardsen

Your library is a critical asset to your community. For starters, it plays a role in improving local literacy; it provides vital access to Internet and technology training; and it helps the economy by offering resources and services for job seekers and small businesses, and access to educational resources. The message seems simple enough and most of you are passionate about it, but the question is, does your community know or really understand the value?

Independence Public Library parade

Independence Public Library Parade (KS)

Making assumptions about how people view your library can be a critical misstep in maintaining and growing local support. The solution? Take control of local perceptions by making community engagement an integral part of everyday activities. Getting out into the community and making connections shouldn’t be something you do occasionally—it should be something that drives you!

Don’t let it overwhelm you, let it inspire you

Community engagement may seem overwhelming and complex, but it’s really very simple. Essentially, it just means making efforts to put the library in front of diverse audiences to start conversations and activate people in some meaningful way. This dialogue provides many natural opportunities to discuss how your library positively impacts the community—and because the audience is engaged and interested, they are more likely to listen and continue the conversation with friends, family and business colleagues.

You can improve outcomes by thinking of your community engagement strategy not as singular events (e.g., taking part in a local parade), but as a fundamental component of your marketing approach and overall strategic plan. So, the first—and most important step—is to plan. Start with a broad view and refine to build out the details of an individual approach or activity. Don’t let lack of funds, staff and other resources stop the planning—decide what’s actually feasible once you have a good outlook of the complete landscape.

Creating effective community engagement

Over the past four years as part of the Geek the Library community awareness campaign team, I’ve learned a great deal about effective community engagement. Geek the Library has helped hundreds of libraries across the country start important local conversations. Based on the experience of participating libraries, I’ve put together some tips to get you started.

Renegades Geek Night

Mary Lou of Wallkill Public Library, 2012 Renegades Geek Night

Tips to get started:  

Hone your message and find transformational stories! Your library transforms lives. As you engage with your community, you want to make sure that your message is clear, so no opportunity is wasted. Think about how you can translate this transformational message to your community. Show the who, what, where, when and why. Statistics are helpful and can guide the bigger conversation, but in order for the message to resonate, localize it. In other words, put a face on it—a local face. Work with your staff and volunteers to uncover the stories that show the incredible impact your library has on individuals and the community.

What’s a transformational story? That’s up to you, but it needs to document how the library made a difference in someone’s life. It’s changing the conversation about the library from information and resources to the library as a transformational force in the community. When evaluating these stories, remember that what you think is commonplace or insignificant (e.g., someone getting hired after using job resources or a small business using library resources to start and grow a local business) might provide a memorable message with the right context. Once you’ve worked out the who and the what, document along with the when, where and why.

Inform and activate staff and internal stakeholders! This starts in the library by making sure all staff and other internal stakeholders (e.g., volunteers and your board) understand your key messages and are empowered (and have the right tools) to communicate them effectively. (Awaken their passion about the library—you want the message to have heart!) Be clear about your community engagement objectives and provide opportunities to give input. Share your plan (including the individual stories and the bigger value message) and how everyone needs to play a role.

Build from what you’re already doing! Look at where you already engage with the community and build on those activities—both in the library and out in the community. Gaining a complete view will provide some guidance for where you have holes (what audience are you missing?), where there’s too much attention and where simple changes can improve active engagement levels.

Take part in more events and make it an active experience! After you’ve completed your review of community events and researched additional opportunities, do it again. Make sure you aren’t just including the usual suspects—and ask your staff for their input. Once you establish a much longer list of possibilities, do a reality check. What can you actually accomplish with your current resources? Next, think about how to make each event an opportunity to start conversations. Having a presence somewhere isn’t enough. You want to get attention, and get people to make connections (or reconnect) with the library and start thinking about the library in terms of the transformational outcomes.

Jessamine County Public Library

Jessamine County Public Library (KY) Kick Off

Ramp up and expand local partnerships and collaborations! Making connections means taking inventory of how you work with organizations, businesses, schools and even the media. Where can the library provide value? Where can an individual or an organization provide value for the library, or where can something valuable be created with a partnership? Perhaps it’s teaming up with local schools to provide more robust homework help, or partnering with a local coffee shop owner to write an informative article and offering a class about the history of coffee and tips for home brewing. In any case, use every collaboration as an avenue to engage on many levels.

Mobilize community support! Think about key community leaders who might be able to help you as you get out in the community. These leaders are people who are outspoken, who often talk about local issues and already have a local following (e.g., a popular business owner or a well-known educator). You want to provide opportunities for them to hear your stories (perhaps an event?) and to ask their advice about new ways the library can collaborate in the community. These are the people you want leading conversations about the library, so make sure they are engaged and can confidently tell a robust story.

Capital Area District Library

Capital Area District Library Billboard (MI)

Make it happen

Any library can have an active and impactful community engagement plan—regardless of size and resources. It’s often more about a shift in thinking internally that leads to the small changes with what you’re already doing that make a difference. Also, developing expectations for staff and empowering them to proactively engage with the community regularly is key—they need to understand why it’s important and how it integrates with their job description.

Remember, community engagement doesn’t always provide instant results—it’s a process and something that’s ongoing. The engagement you strive for isn’t just what happens while at an event or directly after a presentation at a local organization, it’s what is put into motion later through conversations and actions.

Be consistent. Be passionate. Be patient. And always geek community engagement!

Author info: Linn Haugestad Edvardsen is program manager for the Geek the Library community awareness campaign. She can be reached at edvardsl@oclc.org. Geek the Library is free for U.S. public libraries. For more information, please visit get.geekthelibrary.org.

PT Librarian – Caldwell, Idaho

Today’s Date: 03/12/2013

Job Closing Date: 05/03/2013

Job Title: Librarian – Caldwell, Idaho

Anticipated hours per week: Part Time
If ‘other’ please explain… Temporary – Part Time

Institution Caldwell Public Library
Library Location: Caldwell, Idaho

Website (if applicable): http://caldwell.lili.org/

Duties / Job description: The City of Caldwell has an opening for a Temporary/Part Time Librarian at the Caldwell City Public Library. Individual has direct responsibility and oversight for the financial and service activities at the library; assists in the general and overall day-to-day management and leadership of the Caldwell Public Library; and provides general supervision to library staff. Must possess good interpersonal skills and have the ability to effectively communicate with Library Board Members; City employees and the general public. Subject to a pre-employment drug test and back ground check.
Qualifications: Graduation from an accredited college or university with a degree in Library Science (or accredited MLS); and minimum of five (5) years experience performing above or related tasks.

Will out of state candidates be considered? Yes

Salary Range: DOE, DOQ

How to apply? Obtain an application and complete job description on the City’s website at www.cityofcaldwell.com or at the City of Caldwell Human Resources Office, 411 Blaine Caldwell, Idaho 83605.

To post job openings, please see Job Submissions.

Wonderful Things in Uintah County

In August 2012, Uintah County, Utah opened a new 32,000 square foot replacement library.

The original 9,000 square foot facility built in the 1950s, added onto in the 70′s and again in the 90′s, was bursting at the seams with collections (130,000 items) and visitors (gate count of nearly 500,000). Despite the challenge of an inadequate facility we had always been a very successful library in programming, events, and training offered to the public. We also had lot of friends in our community.

"Community Book Train"

Community Book Train on Moving Day

Our staff members had never let our inadequate space limit our efforts. We held activities outside in an adjacent park. We held activities in partnership with other entities such as the recreation district and the local health district. We did a “books on the go” program that delivered books to meals-on-wheels clients—with no added cost to the library. We had a thriving Regional History Center housing many thousands of historical documents, photographs, and books which rivaled special collections at many of Utah’s universities–all crammed into 500 square feet.

Turning the Page

Call it serendipity or destiny that the Gates Foundation and the Public Library Association sponsored the Turning the Page advocacy training in nearby Salt Lake. On that same day, in the same hotel, there was an oil and gas convention that Uintah County Commissioners were attending. I greeted the surprised Commissioner Darlene Burns, who had oversight of the library, and explained why I was there. She was interested in libraries and wanted to sit in to hear Kevin Carroll speak about the Lessons of the Red Rubber Ball. Just then state librarian Donna Morris informed me she had just lost her “elected official” lunchtime speaker. I introduced Commissioner Burns to the State Librarian.

Half an hour later, Commissioner Burns spoke about how elected officials value libraries and how library priorities are weighted against other entities. She mentioned how she appreciates when the library can offer solutions to broader issues and problems. She then publicly announced in front of the crowd of librarians that Uintah County would shortly build a new building! Had it not been for the support of PLA and the Gates Foundation, in their role of facilitating discussion, I can only speculate about how far down the road a new library would still be.

Funding a New Library

Uintah County, Utah, is an oil and natural gas producing county. Over 70% of the land in the county is federally owned. A portion of the revenue the government receives from leasing and drilling fees is deposited with a state board who is charged with funding projects in communities that are impacted by oil and gas development. Impacted, like when 4,000 workers suddenly show up and all want housing and services at the same time. The board had recently funded a portion of the county’s new jail, a children’s justice center, and a recreation center. They however were dead set against funding libraries.

The Community Resource Center

Knowing the Permanent Community Impact Fund Board’s aversion to funding libraries, our team looked at the individual components of what the library does and stripped away library terminology. This we replaced with generic descriptive terminology. Storytime became the “Early Childhood Resource Program.” The computers were “public informational resources.” Our collection of health books were the “Health Information Resource Center.” Our “Parenting with Love and Logic “classes got to keep their name…. After coming up with the list of services and other resources, we settled on the umbrella of “Community Resource Center.”  We took the new name and shared it with elected officials and other influential individuals and groups with whom we already had existing good relationships. Then the library approached the board asking for a combination of grant and low interest loan funding to build a new community resource center. After the longest and most memorable morning of my career, the board accepted our proposal and issued a $5 million dollar grant and a $3 million dollar low interest loan. Our team left the meeting and I’m pretty sure the whole hotel could hear our celebration!

The design and building process

I’ve worn glasses as long as I can remember. Each time I go to the eye doctor, he says “which one is better, one or two, a -or –b…” until the perfect lens is found. To me working with architects and design is much like this process. We started with a list of words that are now etched in the block on the exterior of our new building. Tinspirehese words became an adjacency plan, then architectural drawings, and then they seemingly magically transformed into a growing structure , and a completed building.

We are so pleased with our new library. We’ve nearly doubled our daily traffic counts. We’ve added 5,000 new patrons bringing the total to 31,833. We didn’t add a lot of new materials or grow the collection to a large extent. We added more computers. For us the new building is about having people space, a community living room, study rooms, adequate office space. We use RFID sorting and self-check machines which allow us to spread out our employees into the public spaces more.

Just this week we had a “glitz and glamor” day for all of the little princesses in the area. We had close to 500 people show up. Each of our activities draws close to that number. We have organizational growing pains now. We need to add a bit more hierarchy and grow the organization’s structure. We need to spend more time planning out logistics. We thought that 80 parking stalls and room for 150 people in the library’s main meeting room would be plenty. The truth is that in our community, any room we could have built would be too small at some point.

As library director, I also have responsibility for the Regional History Center. In the process of moving, we were able to remodel a portion of an existing county facility and now have a 4,000 square foot history center with proper archival storage, processing lab, and public research spaces. Just a few weeks ago the county’s administration placed the museum within the library department. Currently our team is designing the museum to fit in the old library.

My message to other librarians is that you can do it! You can be a problem solver. Each time you bring up an issue with your board or manager, also propose a solution. Try new things. Fail forward. Invite yourself to meetings of civic clubs such as Rotary, Elks, and Lions clubs. Dive into the Project Compass resources for supporting local workforce development. Attend open governmental meetings occasionally. Bring new ideas. Convene people. Be a political matchmaker. Don’t be afraid. If all of the focus seems to be on some other non-library issue, figure out how you can help. Get to that table. Call on resources around you. Cities, counties, and state agencies may be able to help. If you want help, be prepared to offer your help. Don’t assume; Ask. If you know what to do and no one asks you, speak up.

You can make great things happen in your communities! Make your readers feel special. Over-deliver on your services. Have fun!

Regards,

Sam Passey, Director
Uintah County Library System
passey@co.uintah.ut.us

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Part Time Library Director — West Dennis, MA

Today’s Date: 03/03/2013

Job Closing Date: 03/15/2013

Job Title: Library Director

Anticipated hours per week: Part Time

Institution West Dennis Free Public Library
Library Location: 260 Main St West Dennis Ma 02670

Website (if applicable): www.westdennislibrary.org

Duties / Job description: Under the direct supervision of West Dennis Free Public Library Board of Trustees, the library director is responsible for the operations of the library and the
development and implementation of its service program, including:
(A) Assisting the board with long-range planning and policy development, and managing all library resources, including human resource – the director supervises all assistants, substitutes, and volunteers who work in the in the library;
(B) Organizing the acquisitions, access, storage, and control of collections;
(C) Designing and implementing services and programs for users of all ages; and
(D) Overseeing the maintenance and safety of the physical plant.
(E) Liaising with community organizations and Town committees.

Knowledge of computers and library systems is required, as well exceptional customer service skills. We are looking for someone with an energetic and positive personality that enjoys working with all age groups.

Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree and 3-5 years of managerial experience; preference will be given to candidates with a Masters in Library Science and managerial experience in an education or library setting.

Will out of state candidates be considered? Yes

Salary Range: Low $20,000 range

How to apply? Qualified candidates should submit a letter of interest and resume to the West Dennis Library Search Committee, PO Box 158 West Dennis, MA 02670 or to wdlibrarysearchcommittee@gmail.com

To post job openings, please see Job Submissions.

Don’t be Left Behind, Find a Ride to the 2013 ARSL Conference

By Jet Kofoot, member of the 2013 ARSL Conference PR Subcommittee, and Consultant, North-Central District, Iowa Library Services

Row a boat, charter a bus, catch a plane, drive a car, hire a taxi, ride a train, rent a truck do whatever it takes to get to the 2013 ARSL Conference in Omaha, NE. The conference will begin with pre-conferences & tours on Wednesday, September 25, tentatively scheduled from 1:00-5:00 PM with a welcome reception that evening from 7:00-9:00. The full conference will begin at 8:00 Thursday morning, September 26, and will run through noon Saturday, September 28. The conference hotel (Doubletree by Hilton) is open for reservations and conference registration will be opening April 12. Additional conference and hotel information including room rates and conference fees can be found on the ARSL web site http://arsl.info/registration.

The conference planning team is excited to announce that Lee Rainie, Director of the Pew Research Center’s Internet & American Life Project, will serve as our opening keynote speaker Thursday morning. Sally Gardner Reed, Executive Director of ALA’s United for Libraries, will be our closing keynote on Saturday. Also, Mary Beth Stenger, director of the Southern Area Public Library, and winner of the 2013 Best Small Library in America award from Library Journal, will address our group to tell her story. Craig Johnson, of Longmire fame (http://www.craigallenjohnson.com/) will be our featured speaker at the 2013 Author Luncheon, held on Friday September 27.  Those in the area who wish to attend this event alone can purchase tickets for $40.  Those registered for conference will find that this event is included. We are very excited about the conference programs in 2013! We look forward to announcing additional keynote, pre-conference, and breakout session speakers as they are confirmed.

If you’re thinking about bringing family or friends, there is plenty to keep them occupied in the Omaha / Council Bluffs area while you are busy soaking up our excellent sessions. Our conference, this year, has built in a meal plan option for those who wish to attend only the meal events. For $160 your guest(s) can attend all meal functions, which includes the Wednesday evening reception, breakfast and lunch both Thursday and Friday, and brunch on Saturday.

While you’re in Omaha, plan to spend some time exploring this great city full of history, culture and adventure. Walk across a swinging rope bridge suspended over a tropical rainforest at Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo. Hop aboard historic train cars at The Durham Museum. Climb in, on, and through everything imaginable at the Omaha Children’s Museum. Step into pioneer life at the Mormon Trail Center. Explore more than 100 acres of botanical beauty at Lauritzen Gardens, and marvel at exquisite works of art inside the Joslyn Art Museum. Boys Town is a national treasure featuring an expansive campus, historic chapel and museum. El Museo Latino is the first Latino art and history museum in the Midwest, and Love’s Jazz and Art Center captures the heritage of jazz in an area where Duke Ellington, Count Basie and others once played. To learn about more things to do in the Omaha / Council Bluffs area visit the Convention and Visitors Bureaus for Omaha and Council Bluffs.

Grab your oars, buy your tickets, tune-up your car, or hire your ride so you’ll be ready to travel to the 2013 ARSL Conference in September. It promises to be an educational and fun event that focuses specifically on the needs of rural and small libraries.