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President Obama announces Open eBooks Initiative and ConnectEd

By Donna DiMichele | April 30, 2015

With a group of middle school students seated in front of him at the Anacostia Branch of the District of Columbia Public Library, and hundreds of other students on a “virtual field trip” watching online from throughout the country, President Obama announced the Open eBooks initiative. The program will make $250 million dollars in popular ebooks available via an app to students from low-income families. The Open eBooks app is being developed by the New York Public Library, which is partnering with the Digital Public Library of America and First Book to curate and deliver the e-books to students from low-income families. #BooksForAll

A complementary program, the ConnectED Library Challenge, is a commitment by more than 30 communities to work to put a library card into every student’s hand as soon as they enter school. Data analyzed by IMLS show that children who visited the library during kindergarten had higher achievement scores in reading and science in third grade, particularly for children in households with low income and low parental education. IMLS, in partnership with the American Library Association and the Urban Libraries Council, will host a national convening this year to identify and share best practices in reaching universal library card use among public school students.

For details, see the following

President Obama Announces Open eBooks and ConnectED Library Challenge

White House Fact Sheet Spreading the Joy of Reading to More Children and Young Adults

The archive version of the President Obama Participates in a “Virtual Field Trip” with Students Around the Country will be posted on the White House channel on YouTube

Topics: ALA, eBooks, IMLS, Literacy, News & Information | Comments Off on President Obama announces Open eBooks Initiative and ConnectEd

Call for Articles

By Donna DiMichele | April 13, 2015

If you have experience in financial literacy for patrons, engaging volunteers, or community engagement, write about it!  Two publishers are seeking writers for articles.

1.  Library’s Role in Supporting Financial Literacy for Patrons

Book Publisher: Rowman & Littlefield

Editor: Carol Smallwood, Library Services for Multicultural Patrons: Strategies to Encourage Library Use, Rowman & Littlefield, 2013

Chapters sought from U.S. and Canadian practicing academic, public, school, special librarians, LIS faculty, and other professionals sharing practical know-how.

Possible topics: Seeking and using collaborators in the financial industry; Job hunting help; Tax preparation programs; Recognizing fraud; Workshops for Senior Citizens; Case studies on what works and what doesn’t in various types of libraries and patrons; other topics on financial literacy for library patrons you’ve had experience.

Concise, how-to chapters using bullets, headings, based on experience to help colleagues; creativity, innovation highly valued. Those able to write two chapters read first. No previously published, simultaneously submitted material. One, two, or three authors per chapter; each chapter by the same author(s). Compensation: one complimentary copy per 3,000-4,000 word chapter accepted no matter how many co-authors or if one or two chapters: author discount on more copies.

Please e-mail titles of 4 topics each described in a few sentences by April 30,

2015 with brief biography sketch on each author; place FIN, Your Name on subject line: smallwood@tm.net

2.  Winning Strategies for Attracting, Retaining, and Maximizing Volunteers and Community Engagement

Book Publisher: McFarland

Co-editors:

Carol Smallwood, co-editor; Bringing the Arts Into the Library (American Library Association, 2014); public library administrator, special, school librarian.

Lura Sanborn, co-editor; contributor, Women, Work, and the Web (Rowman & Littlefield, 2015); public, academic, school librarian.

Chapters sought from U.S. practicing academic, public, school, special librarians and other professional sharing practical know-how about volunteers in tight economic times and staff cuts. Chapters are encouraged that could apply to more than one type of library: useful to public, school, special, LIS faculty. Award winning community volunteer efforts and case studies encouraged such as storywalks with Eagle Scouts, hosting coffee houses.

Possible topics: managing different age groups and special events; training and continuing education; recognition reinforcement; policies and manuals; recruitment and interviewing; scheduling; handling personality conflicts; technology instruction; legal, health, and security concerns.

Concise, how-to chapters using bullets, headings, based on experience to help colleagues; creativity, innovation highly valued. Those submitting two chapters are read first. No previously published, simultaneously submitted material. One, two, or three authors per chapter; each chapter by the same author(s). Compensation: one complimentary copy per 3,000-4,000 word chapter accepted no matter how many co-authors or if one or two chapters: author discount on more copies.

Please e-mail titles of 4 topics each described in a few sentences by April 30, 2015 with brief biography sketch on each author; place VOL, Your Name on subject line: smallwood@tm.net

Topics: Literacy, News & Information | Comments Off on Call for Articles

Rhode Island Teen Book Award

By alicia | April 9, 2015

Teens from across Rhode Island have voted, and this year we have a tie for the Rhode Island Teen Book Award. We’re proud to announce “Eleanor & Park” by Rainbow Rowell and “Steelheart” by Brandon Sanderson as the winners of the 2015 Rhode Island Teen Book Award. The runner up for the award is “Tiger Lily” by Jodi Lynn Anderson. Middle school and high school students from across Rhode Island voted for the Award at their school or local public library.

These novels were three of 22 young adult books nominated by school librarians, teachers, and public librarians from throughout Rhode Island. The books were selected on the basis of literary quality and their appeal to those in grades 7 and up. Throughout the past year, young adults could find copies of the books available to read at their local school and public libraries and area stores. Young adult readers were eligible to vote once they had read three of the titles.

In “Eleanor & Park”, Rainbow Rowell writes of the highs and lows of first love. Set over the course of one school year in 1986, this is the story of two star-crossed misfits–smart enough to know that first love almost never lasts, but brave and desperate enough to try. In “Steelheart”, Brandon Sanderson visits a world of science fiction and super villains. At age eight, David watched as his father was killed by an Epic, a human with superhuman powers. Now, ten years later, he joins the Reckoners–the only people who are trying to destroy the Epics and end their tyranny.

The Rhode Island Teen Book Award Committee would like to thank everyone for participating in this year’s award.

Topics: News & Information | Comments Off on Rhode Island Teen Book Award

Congressman Langevin “libraries are essential”

By Donna DiMichele | April 8, 2015

Last week, RI Congressman Jim Langevin visited Cranston Public Library’s C Lab and later shared his impressions on his Facebook page. OLIS’ Chief of Library Services, Karen Mellor, was with the Congressman at the Cranston Public Library and OLIS was delighted to share the Congressman’s post on the OLIS Facebook page.

On his Facebook page, Congressman Langevin asked: “When was the last time you visited your local library?” On his blog, he reflects on that question and writes:

“While you may fail to see the immediate importance of the question, I would argue that libraries are essential centers of our communities. Improving literacy and increasing access to books, newspapers and other resources are admirable goals. But libraries do so much more, and are increasingly charged with doing more with less.” read more

The Congressman goes on to write about all the opportunities you can discover at the library and many roles of the librarians who are resources within resources! Please read the Congressman’s blog post online in it’s entirety. It’s a great day when libraries get a shout-out like this one!

Topics: News & Information | Comments Off on Congressman Langevin “libraries are essential”

Kick Off Money Smart Week!

By Donna DiMichele | April 7, 2015

Join the Office of Library and Information Services (OLIS) and

the Rhode Island Library Association (RILA)

for a

Financial Literacy & Library Professionals Money Smart Networking Event on:

Saturday, April 18, 2015, from 1:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.

At the William Hall Library, Cranston

RILA & OLIS invite financial literacy and library professionals from across the state to a networking & information sharing event that will officially launch Money Smart Week RI 2015. The event is a chance for librarians, representatives from community organizations and state agencies to meet and discuss how we can work together to empower RI citizens of all ages to be “money smart” through financial education programming, outreach and services.  The event also offers an opportunity to learn more about various financial literacy resources.

Speakers at the event include:

What is Money Smart Week?

Money Smart Week (MSW) is a national initiative from the Chicago Federal Reserve and the American Library Association that promotes financial literacy awareness.  Please join us to celebrate the beginning of the 4th annual MSW RI!

Money Smart Week – RI 2015 takes place April 18-25 and currently has over 40 events scheduled in libraries and community spaces throughout the state. Check out the schedule of events!

Registration for the free April 18 event required – register online by April 16.

Is your library planning a Money Smart Week-RI program or event?  If so, then tell RILA’s MSW co-chairs!  Contact Chris Wallace Goldstein, Woonsocket Public Library or Julie DeCesare  Providence College.

Topics: Events, Resources | Comments Off on Kick Off Money Smart Week!

It’s School Library Month – Celebrate Together

By Donna DiMichele | April 6, 2015

School Library Month (SLM) is the American Association of School Librarians’ (AASL) sponsored celebration of school librarians and their programs. School librarians are encouraged to create activities to help their school and local community celebrate the essential role that strong school library programs play in transforming learning. Learn more about AASL’s celebration.

How can public librarians celebrate School Library Month? The Young Adult Library Services Association (YALSA) has some great ideas on the subject. Check them out at YALSAblog

Topics: News & Information | Comments Off on It’s School Library Month – Celebrate Together

REFORMA’s New Spanish Website

By alicia | March 30, 2015

In an effort to improve our service to our International members and to further support our mission, REFORMA has translated into Spanish several important sections of our National website, which is now available on the organization’s Spanish webpage, www.reforma.org/espanol Translated sections currently available include a welcoming page, as well as the following:• About REFORMA• Executive Team• Membership information (translated membership form)• Events and Conferences• Social Media• News, Resource and Publications We hope to improve our Spanish website as time goes by. If you have ideas for improvement, please let us know by contacting Carlos Rodriguez, Beatriz Guevara or myself, Maria Cotto at shelyn5@HOTMAIL.COM. I ask that you help us promote our Spanish website to our International members, and perhaps encourage them during our conference to join REFORMA.

Topics: News & Information | Comments Off on REFORMA’s New Spanish Website

Applications open for 2015 FTRF Conable Conference Scholarship

By alicia | March 30, 2015

https://ftrf.site-ym.com/news/220581/Applications-open-for-2015-FTRF-C

CHICAGO—Applications are now open for the 2015 Gordon M. Conable Conference Scholarship, sponsored by the Freedom to Read Foundation (FTRF). The Conable Conference Scholarship provides funding for an LIS student or recent graduate to attend the American Library Association’s Annual Conference. The 2015 ALA Annual Conference will be held June 25-30 in San Francisco, California.

The goal of the Gordon M. Conable Conference Scholarship is to advance two principles that Conable held dear: intellectual freedom and mentorship.

The scholarship provides for conference registration, transportation, and housing for six nights, along with a $300 stipend for meals and other expenses. In return, the recipient will be expected to attend FTRF and other intellectual freedom meetings and events at the conference, consult with a mentor/board member, and provide a report about their experiences. The recipient also will receive a one-year FTRF membership and will be invited, although not required, to provide daily updates about his or her experience on the Freedom to Read Foundation blog.

The deadline for submitting an application for the 2015 Conable Conference Scholarship is Friday, April 3, 2015; the award will be announced by the first week in May.

Who is eligible: Students currently enrolled in an ALA-accredited LIS degree program or an AASL-recognized master’s program in school librarianship and new professionals (those who are three or fewer years removed from receiving a library school degree) are eligible to receive the Conable Conference Scholarship. Those interested must submit an application that includes two references and an essay detailing their interest in intellectual freedom issues. Applicants also are required to attach a résumé. If the recipient has already registered for ALA’s Annual Conference, he or she will have the conference fee refunded.

To apply for the Conable Conference Scholarship, visit www.ftrf.org/?Conable_Scholarship. For more information, please contact Jonathan Kelley at (800) 545-2433, ext. 4226 or jokelley@ala.org.

Topics: News & Information | Comments Off on Applications open for 2015 FTRF Conable Conference Scholarship

Preservation Assistance Grants

By Donna DiMichele | March 17, 2015

PRESERVATION ASSISTANCE GRANTS FOR SMALL and MIDSIZE INSTITUTIONS

The National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) Preservation Assistance Grants program is tailored to small and midsize institutions, and is often the first step toward securing funding for future preservation activities.

Grants are available in amounts up to $6,000

Deadline: May 5, 2015

Eligible Grant Activities Include:

Complete grant information Visit this NEH page for specific details on applying.

Northeast Document Conservation Center offers a free webinar on Writing Your Preservation Assistance Grant https://vimeo.com/120836685

Topics: Grants, Preservation, Resources | Comments Off on Preservation Assistance Grants

Digital Preservation Management

By Donna DiMichele | March 11, 2015

Digital Preservation Management

Are you responsible for digital preservation at your organization?  Are you interested in learning the standards, resources, policies, and work flows integral to a successful program?  Do you want to join a cohort of similar professionals as you develop your skills and organizational readiness?  Come learn how to implement short-term strategies for long-term problems.

The Digital Preservation Management Workshop, directed by Nancy Y. McGovern, is taking place June 14 – 19, 2015 at Tufts University in Medford, Massachusetts.  Tuition fee for the week is $1,200.00 and includes four lunches and a group dinner. Information Website

The application system will open on March 16 at 9:00 ET.  No fees are due at time of application.

Workshop Audience

The workshop series is intended for managers who are or will be responsible for digital preservation programs in libraries, archives, and other cultural institutions.

Workshop Goals

Promote Practical and Responsible Stewardship of Digital Assets.  The goals of the workshop are to foster critical thinking in a technological realm and provide the means for exercising practical and responsible stewardship of digital assets in an age of technological uncertainty. The workshop sessions are geared towards making a digital preservation program doable for any organization and all of the sessions include as many relevant examples as we can fit.  The workshop focuses on the decision points involved in responding to ongoing technological changes while managing digital content across the life cycle.

Faculty for June 2015

The faculty for the workshop includes Dr. Nancy Y. McGovern, Kari R. Smith, Courtney Mumma, and Brad Westbrook. The keynote speaker will be Dr. Katherine Skinner, Executive Director of the Educopia Institute. Faculty bios

Workshop Content

The workshop includes interactive presentations, group discussions, exercises, individual assignments, and a keynote presentation by an international expert in digital preservation. Workshop attendees explore the range of components needed to develop an effective digital preservation program. Workshop materials include action plans for organizations to complete when participants return to their institutions. Action plans result in organization-specific plans that incorporate technical, financial, organizational, and policy aspects encompassing the full life cycle of digital objects. The workshop focuses on strategies for organizations to implement now, while research and development goes forward in creating longer-term solutions that can be incorporated into the program framework.

Prerequisite

As a prerequisite for the workshop, we ask participants to work through the Digital Preservation Management Tutorial – a free resource for anyone interested in learning the foundations for digital preservation and as a starting point for advanced discussions.  The tutorial is online at:  http://www.dpworkshop.org/

If you have questions about the workshop, send an email to Dpmw-management@mit.edu

Topics: Continuing Education, News & Information, Preservation, Technology | Comments Off on Digital Preservation Management


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