A few years ago, an irate patron at my previous library ran my car’s license plate number to obtain my personal information and bragged to our mayor about it, solely because he was unhappy with the library’s parking offerings. I’ve personally been sexually harassed by both patrons and colleagues. As a manager, I’ve intervened in countless incidents of patrons berating and threatening my frontline staff. All of these situations have occurred while working in a county whose crime rate is far below the national average.

I know I am not alone, and that fellow librarians have fared far worse. Kelly Jensen’s 2017 Book Riot article, “The State of Sexual Harassment in the Library” does a fantastic – if not alarming – job of illustrating how widespread harassment is in today’s libraries.^[1] Physical violence against library workers has been in the news in recent years as well. Security guard Sandra Wilson was stabbed to death by a patron at Finkelstein Memorial Library (Spring Valley, New York) last February.^[2] Amber Clark, a Branch Supervisor in the Sacramento County Library System was shot to death in 2018 by a patron she had asked to leave the library.^[3] Unfortunately, there are many more stories like theirs.

The pandemic has brought a host of additional safety challenges. In 2020, public libraries across the U.S. were faced with the sudden need to provide services in the midst of a public health crisis. Public-facing workers had to wrestle with elevated risks for exposure to COVID-19, on top of increasingly difficult interactions with patrons who did not agree with their libraries’ mask policies.^[4] Other workers found themselves in organizations without strong safety guidelines or on-the-job protections. Some of these concerns have gotten marginally better as the pandemic has shown some signs of improvement, but it is far from over.

Is all of this to say that working in public libraries is a miserable experience? Of course not. The same aspects of library work that can become unsafe in certain situations – chiefly, dealing with the public – can also be incredibly rewarding. Most of us are in this line of work because of our desire to help others and make a difference in the world. However, that is exactly why our employees deserve to feel safe and protected in the workplace.

While it is not feasible to plan for every possible negative outcome that could arise in the library, our administrations must make safety and emergency planning a priority. There is a great deal of truth in the well known Benjamin Franklin quote, “If you fail to plan, you are planning to fail.” This is true in terms of having a plan to deal with difficult patrons, as well as more specific scenarios such as weather emergencies or active shooter situations.

As a leader, it can be overwhelming to think about these things because so many of them might seem outside our wheelhouse. I would venture to guess, for example, that most of us did not study epidemiology in library school, making pandemic planning a little trickier. Fortunately, we are not alone. There are a multitude of safety-related training resources available to librarians, especially from ALA. For more site-specific emergency planning, I have found my local Office of Emergency Management to be a wealth of information.

Of course, simply reviewing these resources or drafting policies and procedures in a vacuum is not helpful. Staff at all levels should be invited to the conversation. Team trainings on how to handle negative patron encounters or other disasters are vital so workers have the chance to ask questions and truly understand the material. This also allows for consistent enforcement of policies concerning patron behavior and emergency response. When new employees come on board, handling these scenarios should be part of their training. If an incident does occur, leaders should allow their teams to debrief and offer employees a chance to have their concerns and fears heard.

The first step towards creating safer libraries is to acknowledge that they are not always the quiet, idyllic spaces that the masses tend to think they are; they are open public places with all the risks that come with that. Leadership must value their workers as whole people, not just as vessels to provide a certain service. In order to retain our talent, we need to ensure that we are doing what we can to make things as safe for them as possible. We will never be able to eliminate all of our challenges, but through ongoing training, formal policies, and open communication, we can at least be well prepared to handle them when they arise.

REFERENCES

^[1] Jensen, Kelly, “The State of Sexual Harassment in Libraries,” Book Riot, October 24, 2017, https://bookriot.com/sexual-harassment-library/.

^[2] “Female Security Guard Fatally Stabbed at Rockland County Library, Suspect in Custody,” CBS New York, February 18, 2020, https://newyork.cbslocal.com/2020/02/18/finkelstein-memorial-library-stabbing/.

^[3] “Ronald Seay Arrested for Shooting of Librarian Amber Clark,” CBS Sacramento, December 13, 2018, https://sacramento.cbslocal.com/2018/12/13/arrest-amber-clark-ronald-seay/.

^[4] Knight, Kimberly & Melanie Lyttle, “Gaining Patron Cooperation on Mask Wearing,” Public Libraries Online, April 30, 2021, https://publiclibrariesonline.org/2021/04/gaining-patron-cooperation-on-mask-wearing/.

The post Creating Safer Libraries first appeared on Public Libraries Online.

The authors, representing Montana State University’s Department of Agricultural Economics and Economics, the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago, and Miami University’s Department of Economics, respectively, look at the correlation between library capital funding and resources, usage, student achievement, and housing prices. Ultimately, they were able to demonstrate that increased funding drove substantial increases in children’s attendance at library programs, as well as circulation and overall library visits. In turn, increased library usage boosted children’s performance on standardized reading tests. There was no correlation between library visitation and math scores. Increased funding was not found to have an impact on housing prices. 

Although there are ample studies on the relationship between public school investment and children’s performance, the authors point out that there is very little information available about how other municipal-funded entities can influence educational outcomes; as a result, they turned their attention to public libraries. Using IMLS data from 2018, they noted that 15,427 library branches across the country received $12 billion in operating funds, which translated to a total circulation of more than two billion items. 750 million of those items were borrowed by children, who also had an attendance of over 80 million at library programs. This data was then cross-referenced with test scores obtained from the Stanford Education Data Archive and housing prices from Zillow. Because libraries’ operating expenses largely remain relatively stable over time, they focused on capital expenditures on “major renovations and new library buildings.” 

Through this approach, the authors found that capital investments in public libraries increased visits and children’s circulation by 21% and children’s program attendance by 18%. These increases remain for over ten years following the initial investments. Other metrics such as collections, staff, salaries, and general operating expenditures grew as well. As a result, the authors concluded, “Library capital investment increases both the quality and the usage of libraries.” Similarly, children’s reading scores improved by an average of 0.02 standard deviations in the seven years following capital investments. This was especially the case in smaller and less well-funded school districts, illustrating that libraries tend to pick up some of the slack. 

As capital library funding becomes more visible through initiatives such as the Build America’s Libraries Act, the findings of this study are more important than ever. Most librarians will likely not be surprised by this data because we see our organizations’ impact on young patrons every day, but having definite correlations such as these will undoubtedly be valuable in campaigning for increased funding from our governing bodies. As the authors acknowledge, it’s easy for most legislators to look towards school funding as an avenue for increasing children’s success. While educational support is clearly vital, this study helps solidify the need for public libraries to have a seat at the funding table too. Investing in library infrastructure helps provide more opportunities for young people to attend library programs and creates space for expanded collections. Capital improvements can also add much-needed technology resources that can help span the digital divide and help set students up for success as well. Also reassuring is the fact that capital investments are shown to have long-term effects on both library usage and test scores, as opposed to fleeting improvements. This long-overdue analysis is a win for libraries and justifying what we do. 

The post Working Paper Seeks to Quantify Library ROI first appeared on Public Libraries Online.

After the library closed on March 13, 2020 due to the emerging COVID-19 pandemic, Karlovsky became concerned about her vulnerable and potentially isolated patrons.  “People with disabilities and seniors lost critical social and educational lifelines when everything shut down,” she explains. “That was at the forefront of my mind when I came up with the [Library Lifeline] idea.”

Library Lifeline began as an opportunity for vulnerable populations to contact Karlovsky with questions about technology or the library’s e-resources, and to discuss books or have a book or poem read to them. In the early days, it was deliberately left open-ended with the goal of serving patrons as effectively as possible and ensuring that they still felt connected to the library. Patrons were invited to call and speak with Karlovsky for any of these reasons, or even just as a check-in when they needed someone to talk to. 

The initial response was made up of many of the library’s regulars: patrons that attended Karlovsky’s in-person programs or members of groups that she interacted with while performing outreach. Library Lifeline has also appealed to many homebound seniors who, even outside of the pandemic, cannot typically visit the library often or at all. When developing the program, one of Karlovsky’s stipulations was that it should not be limited to Deerfield residents, and patrons from other communities haven also taken part.

On average, she says, she generally fields five to six Library Lifeline calls per week. From the program’s launch in April 2020 through the end of the year, the service was utilized 200 times. Most calls take about an hour, although exact timing varies depending on the patron and nature of their call. 

“There are some that are regulars,” Karlovsky explains. “I have some that are weekly. We do a book reading and discussion — we do weekly sessions. There are some where it’s just whenever they need help. I have people who need some help finding social services or getting connected with agencies.”

Other times, her colleagues will find themselves stumped on how to help a patron. Those interactions are then referred to Karlovsky for a Library Lifeline session. The ultimate goal of interactions such as providing e-resource help is for the patron to eventually become self-sufficient in what they are trying to accomplish. Patrons’ usage of the service has shifted a bit as more things have begun to reopen, too. Karlovsky notes that the number of patrons calling just to talk to another person has decreased somewhat. 

When the pandemic is eventually over, Karlovsky plans to continue Library Lifeline in order to improve the library’s accessibility to homebound patrons and other special populations. The exact details of how its description and logistics may shift remain unknown at this time, but she feels strongly that connecting with patrons via phone, Zoom, and Skype fills a need and ensures they remain engaged with the library. 

For librarians thinking about rolling out a similar service at their libraries, Karlovsky’s biggest piece of advice focuses on how to treat participants. 

“The biggest thing is [to] come from a place of empathy and compassion. Assume that you don’t know how bad they’ve had it since this began. I know it’s been bad for everyone. It’s been a societal trauma, but we don’t know what they’ve been through. Being patient, being compassionate, being empathetic, [and] not getting impatient” have been critical, she explains. 

 Preparedness is also key, especially in sessions that take place over the phone rather than through videoconferencing. For less tech-savvy patrons, Karlovsky always makes sure she can speak as clearly and simply as possible when providing training on e-resources. Such instruction can take longer than anticipated based on the patron’s comfort level with technology, so she reminds librarians to set aside enough time for sessions and not be surprised if something seemingly simple takes a long time. 

In terms of soft skills, listening and building rapport with participants is also key. Collaboration with local organizations is also necessary to ensure the community is aware of these offerings. In Karlovsky’s case, some patrons were referred to Library Lifeline from other groups, such as her local senior center. 

Ultimately, Library Lifeline has been a very positive experience in Deerfield, and Karlovsky looks forward to seeing it continue. For more information about the library’s services, visit their website or call 847-945-3311.

The post The Library is a Lifeline in Deerfield first appeared on Public Libraries Online.

As a library director, I have had a considerable amount of hiring experience over the years. Several things immediately surfaced as different during this year’s round of recruiting. First was the sheer influx of applicants; it is well documented that job losses have been staggering in 2020, and I had not seen so many part-time applicants since the years following 2008’s recession. Second was the need to conduct the entire interview process virtually. Interviewing via video chat was actually not entirely new to me after having met with several out-of-state applicants in years past, but this was my first time not being able to offer any in-person interviews. Third, and perhaps most jarring, was the knowledge that new hires would be starting in an environment wildly different from the library’s typical atmosphere. For example, new circulation team members likely have never known a world without some form of curbside services or quarantines of returned items.

Interviewing for and starting a new role have also been quite different from my previous experiences. Although I had conducted video interviews in the past, I had never been on the receiving end of them. My new library was closed to the public during most of the recruitment process, which prevented me from being able to visit before my first day. Actually starting the new job was different, too. In a pandemic, it is not possible to shake hands with new colleagues, for example, and it is next to impossible to truly get a sense of a library’s regular atmosphere in the world of reduced services.

With these experiences in mind, my biggest piece of advice for librarians on either side of the job hunt during the pandemic echoes a lesson that most of us learned this year: be flexible. Like so many other things, hiring librarians and job seekers alike are adjusting to our new normal and learning to navigate new territory. Flexibility is key in both the hiring process and once you land the job.

Flexibility may involve adjusting to new and different types of technology, as well as understanding that the recruitment process will undoubtedly look different than you’ve experienced before. Both sides should be as familiar with technology as possible. At this point in the year, we are likely all accustomed to Zoom. Still, it can’t hurt to devote some extra attention to the basics prior to participating in a meeting as high-stakes as an interview. Job search giant Indeed offers a great primer for success in a virtual interview, with many tips that apply to both sides of the process. Some important reminders include:

• Familiarize yourself with the software’s functionality ahead of time, especially in terms of controlling audio and video
• Wear appropriate attire
• Choose a suitable place to conduct the interview with good lighting and a lack of background noise

Due to society’s newfound dependence on this type of technology, it is wise to expect some delays and snags in the hiring process. The need for flexibility does not end with the new hire’s start date, though. In today’s world of curbside services and remote work, onboarding may take significantly longer than usual. It is more difficult for colleagues to meet if they are working staggered shifts or completing some or all work from home. This can make it more difficult for new hires to learn about their library’s organizational culture or how to handle certain aspects of their jobs. This is especially the case in roles whose duties have shifted because of the pandemic: for example, an outreach librarian’s job likely looks far different today than it did back in February. This article shares five strategies that are key for adapting to a new role or onboarding a new employee during the pandemic. Although its advice is geared towards professionals working in higher ed, it remains very applicable to public librarians as well.

Whichever side of the hiring process you find yourself on, be sure to treat yourself kindly and remember that we are all in this together. With patience and flexibility, we can make the job search seem a little more manageable in an increasingly uncertain world.          

The post Job Searching During a Pandemic: Flexibility is Key first appeared on Public Libraries Online.

A recent piece by McKinsey & Company identifies three key challenges for workplaces during the pandemic: flexibility in changing workflows, the increased prevalence of remote work, and future expectations of what working will be like once the virus is under control. Public libraries are not only faced with all of these, but also the added pressures of having to work closely with the public in a time where person-to-person exposure is risky, as well as the potential of funding cuts due to COVID’s economic impact. These challenges, coupled with the general anxiety of living during a pandemic, are enough to make anyone second guess their work life. 

Now that libraries across the country have reopened or are moving towards doing so, many library workers are left feeling stressed about returning to in-person work. One Adult Outreach Librarian I spoke with, who wishes to remain anonymous, tells me, “My stress level has gone up considerably since we started working in our building again. It’s mentally draining to be so focused on sanitizing as much as possible, not to mention the constant worry of being exposed and bringing something home to my family. Add in the stress of having to constantly police people about correctly wearing their masks, and it’s just become exhausting to worry about day in and day out.” 

Economic fallout from the pandemic is also a large source of employee stress. To combat funding uncertainty, many libraries have had to turn to furloughs or even lay-offs in order to preserve their budgets. Cutting positions is not only a morale killer for the employees directly involved, but it can place a significantly heavier burden on the remaining staff. When the majority of staff were furloughed at one anonymous library, remaining employees found themselves spending significant time reallocating job duties on top of the hours it took to complete the actual furloughs. Staff was brought back “on a rolling basis”, and it took more time for managers to bring them up to speed on new changes and procedures. “It’s just been nonstop and we’re all burnt out for different reasons, and morale is so low,” a supervisor describes. The morale of the staff who had experienced furloughs has obviously suffered, and the rest of the staff found themselves even more overworked than usual during the ordeal.  

Another department head complains about the lack of safety measures and clear planning at her library, describing an environment in which librarians were forced to justify the need for precautions such as plexiglass barriers at service desks. Despite the fact that one employee passed away from COVID in April and other workers or their family members have tested positive, they were still expected to return to work as usual and were likened by administration “to pizza delivery drivers and to grocery store workers.”

Even administrators have struggled during the pandemic. At my own library, I have scrambled to keep up with constantly changing data surrounding the virus and what it might mean for our operations. It’s been difficult and sometimes demoralizing to craft plan after plan with very little guidance from public health authorities, and the anxiety surrounding keeping my staff safe has been overwhelming. Pandemic-related emergency response is certainly not something they teach in library school. 

The pandemic is not the first time morale in our nation’s libraries began to suffer, though. Even before March, burnout and job dissatisfaction were growing. More attention has been given lately to the emotional labor involved in librarianship. A recent Book Riot article details the prevalence of compassion fatigue in libraries, while referencing Fobazi Ettarh’s notable 2018 work on vocational awe. As libraries find fewer social and civic services in their communities, they are forced to take on new roles that they may not be appropriately equipped for. Shrinking budgets force us to do more with less, and our workers can only do so much. 

So how do we fix this? Aside from the obvious answers like better funding and local social services, public library administrators and boards must take an active role in protecting our employees not only physically, but also from as much on-the-job stress as possible. Although outside staff development days and happy hours are not realistic in the world of COVID, small infusions of positivity such as encouraging employees to take time off as needed – or even gifting extra time, if possible – can go a long way. Organizations should welcome employee feedback in reopening plans and actually take it into consideration whenever possible. Delegation and shared workloads should be encouraged to minimize burnout, and, of course, staff safety should be at the forefront of every reopening plan. It is vital that administrations keep in mind that rushing to reinstate services before it is safe to do so is the worst thing that can happen right now, both for staff and patrons. Although operating in the face of the health and financial crises occurring right now is difficult, we cannot afford for our workers to suffer. 

The post A Pandemic Side Effect: Low Morale in Public Libraries first appeared on Public Libraries Online.

• A basic chain of command
• Under what circumstances your library might close, and who makes such a decision
• How staff will be compensated during any closures
• What telecommuting looks like for your library, including communication strategies
• How essential functions such as facilities management and payroll can continue in a virtual work environment
• Safety measures for staff and patrons, including emergency supplies to keep on hand in the library building
• Records management and preservation

It remains to be seen how the current crisis will affect libraries and their patrons in the long-term. Although most organizations likely did not have firm plans in place to mitigate this level of disaster at its inception, librarians are by nature creative thinkers who will undoubtedly be able to figure things out as we go. 

Have some thoughts about pandemic planning for libraries, or want to showcase what your library is doing to serve its patrons while being closed? Sound off in the comments. 

The post COVID-19: The Impact on Public Libraries first appeared on Public Libraries Online.

On July 25, Macmillan CEO John Sargent announced that beginning November 1, the publisher will limit library systems to the purchase of one perpetual access license during a title’s first eight weeks in publication. This single license will be available at half price. After the initial eight weeks, additional licenses may be purchased at full price but are still subject to the publisher’s existing limitations on duration of the license (generally two years) and/or number of borrows.

On September 26, the interest group Readers First broke the news that Overdrive Advantage libraries belonging to consortia may purchase their own OC/OU (one copy, one user) copy during the eight-week window in addition to the single perpetual access license purchased by their consortia.^[2] Although this change will help libraries that are part of a system, it is by no means a complete fix.

The backlash against Macmillan’s new policy has been quick and strong, not just from librarians. Media outlets such as CNN^[3] and Slate^[4] have brought attention to the fight. The American Library Association (ALA) has launched a campaign titled “#eBooksForAll”, which includes a public-facing petition addressed to Sargent. Currently, the petition contains more than 60,000 signatures from librarians and members of the public.

Macmillan’s new policy adds another layer to the already complex world of e-content acquisition for libraries. For years, libraries have struggled with dramatically higher pricing on ebooks and digital audiobooks than their physical counterparts. In addition to pricing woes, most e-content licenses for libraries are restricted to a certain number of checkouts or a defined time period. Once one of these thresholds is met, the license disappears, forcing the library to either forfeit access to the title or buy a new license.

Just how far removed is library pricing from the cost to a regular consumer? Take, for example, the popular bestseller Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens. The consumer-facing ebook currently sells for $14.99 on Amazon. The list price for the hardcover edition is $26.00, which libraries are typically able to purchase through vendors at an additional discount. If I want to purchase the ebook through Overdrive Advantage so my library’s patrons can access it through the popular Libby app, it costs a whopping $55.00 and is only valid for 24 months.

At this moment, there are 637 holds on 60 digital copies of Where the Crawdads Sing in my consortia of 77 libraries. For a popular bestseller, this level of demand is not uncommon. Fortunately, in this case, the title in question is published by Penguin Group and would not fall into Macmillan’s embargo if it were published this winter.

To further complicate the scenario, many library patrons do not understand the intricate workings of loanable e-content. It can be a learning curve to comprehend the notion that most library ebooks are not licensed for simultaneous usage, and holds must be placed on copies that are checked out. Furthermore, it can be frustrating for patrons to see long wait times when they reserve a title; for popular bestsellers in my organization, it is not uncommon to see wait times of six months or more without any kind of embargo.

If a patron currently must wait more than half a year for their turn to read an e-book, what will happen to that waiting period when libraries are limited in how many copies they can purchase? How long can we realistically expect our users to wait before being forced to either purchase their own copy or, worse, forego reading the book entirely? As more patrons turn to digital content to satisfy their reading interests, it should be easier for libraries to purchase e-content – not harder.

Sargent has noted concern that libraries purchasing e-content take away sales from authors. Aside from the fact that an embargo cuts back on the revenue authors will see from library sales, this stance neglects to take into account that many patrons use libraries as discovery tools in finding new authors. When faced with finite resources, readers may be wary of spending their own money on an author or series they aren’t sure if they’ll like. Trying the book in question by borrowing from the library is an easy way to test the waters without significant personal cost. In turn, if the reader likes what they read, it can lead them to invest in new authors that they would not have had the means to try out otherwise.

Aside from the discovery aspect, it is quite a privileged stance to assume that all readers have the means to support buying every book they want to consume. This is where libraries are most critical, in providing access to information and resources. Ultimately, embargoes such as Macmillan’s prevent us from fulfilling our missions.

^[1] Albanese, Andrew. “After Tor Experiment, Macmillan Expands Embargo on Library E-Books.” Publishers Weekly, July 25, 2019. https://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/by-topic/industry-news/libraries/article/80758-after-tor-experiment-macmillan-expands-embargo-on-library-e-books.html.

^[2] Blackwell, Michael. “A Small Change for Consortia in in Macmillan Licensing.” Readers First, September 26, 2019. http://www.readersfirst.org/news/2019/9/26/a-small-change-for-consortia-in-macmillan-licensing.

^[3] West, Jessamyn. “Libraries are Fighting to Preserve Your Right to Borrow E-Books.” CNN, August 2, 2019. https://www.cnn.com/2019/08/02/opinions/libraries-fight-publishers-over-e-books-west/index.html.

^[4] Schwedel, Heather. “Why Angry Librarians are Going to War with Publishers Over E-Books.” Slate, September 11, 2019. https://slate.com/business/2019/09/e-book-library-publisher-buying-controversy-petition.html.

Resources

PLA E-Book Advocacy Resources

The post Embargoed: Libraries Struggle with Ebook Purchasing first appeared on Public Libraries Online.

While it can be tempting to just skip reviews entirely in this scenario, that is not helpful to staff either. Instead, it pays to learn about what goes into a proper evaluation. The end result is undeniably positive for both parties. From a properly administered review, employees can gain a clearer sense of what they are doing well and what needs to be worked on. In turn, managers will likely see an uptick in performance and a more engaged workforce.

Here are some things to avoid, or practices that do not work when it comes to administering performance evaluations:

• Not doing them. This may seem obvious, but many managers will simply avoid this step if they are unsure of what to do, or find themselves short on time. Regular reviews are essential for the health of any organization. Employees will feel more connected to their job and their library’s mission if they know how their work is affecting the organization. Goal-setting is crucial to sustained performance growth, and evaluations provide an excellent venue to create benchmarks to work towards. In particular, managers may want to use evaluations as an opportunity to help their employees develop SMART (specific, measureable, attainable, relevant, and time-found) goals.[1]
• Bringing up too much new information. If an employee is facing disciplinary action, or a certain recurring behavior needs to be corrected, an annual review is not the proper venue to make this known for the first time. Instead, problems should be communicated to the employee on a regular basis throughout the year. Reviews are intended to bring attention to overall trends in performance – both positive and negative – over time. If an employee commits a significant infraction, any discussion or disciplinary action should be taken then and there – not months later during a performance review, when recall may be lessened.
• Not providing concrete examples. Overly general statements like “you need to be more organized” or “you need to work on customer service” do not help anyone. Employees will not know specifically have to correct their behavior, and it is tougher for managers to act on vague assertions. Instead, clarify by offering examples. Something along the lines of “Sally, I would like you to work on written outlines of your story times in advance so your colleagues are able to fill in for you in the event of an unexpected absence” is far more actionable than simply asking a children’s librarian to be more organized. Similarly, “John, let’s work on practicing empathy with patrons who are having a difficult time” is more helpful than simply asking him to work on customer service.
• Reviews are a top-down experience only. Asking employees to work on a self-evaluation before they are evaluated by their manager can be hugely helpful. This will not only help the employee enter the right mindset in advance of the evaluation, but it will transform the meeting dynamics. Instead of the manager lecturing the employee, this opens a dialogue that may not exist otherwise. BJ Gallagher of the American Management Association writes, “Whatever the situation, talking about the gap between your evaluation and theirs will be fruitful in getting you both on the same page (both literally and figuratively) in terms of future expectations.”[2]
• Evaluating people instead of performance. Gallagher also notes that it is best to evaluate employees on tangible items like specific behaviors and their results, instead of inherent traits such as personality, willpower, etc. Evaluating based on an employee’s demeanor can be unfair and unintentionally lead to bias; for example, an extroverted boss may view an employee’s introverted habits as bad, when they are really just different. Instead, sticking to observable behaviors and outputs (e.g. number of programs performed, patron satisfaction, etc.) is a more fair practice that can actually result in performance improvement.

When administered correctly, performance evaluations can have a truly positive effect on libraries as workplaces. Although they may seem daunting to a new manager, they are worth the time and effort. Managers, do you have a favorite evaluation tip, or something you’ve learned to avoid? Sound off in the comments!

1. “SMART Goals: A How to Guide.” 2016. Accessed August 6, 2019. https://www.ucop.edu/local-human-resources/_files/performance-appraisal/How to write SMART Goals v2.pdf.
2. Gallagher, BJ. “The DOs and DON’Ts of Performance Reviews.” January 24, 2019. Accessed August 6, 2019. https://www.amanet.org/articles/the-dos-and-don-ts-of-performance-reviews/.

The post Performance Evaluations: What Not to Do first appeared on Public Libraries Online.

Social media is relatively easy to publish to and free or low-cost, making it genuinely accessible to any type of organization. This ease, however, can come at a price — more and more often we hear stories of businesses dealing with fallout from a poorly thought out post.

In 2018, Amazon’s Jeff Bezos, as well as companies like Miele and Dolce & Gabbana received backlash for insensitive or offensive posts. We also hear of employees accidentally posting to the wrong account, inadvertently sharing their personal thoughts to their employers’ pages. So, how can libraries avoid these difficult situations? The first defense is a strong social media policy. 

Social media policies frequently guide employees on the following:

• Who maintains the library’s social media accounts. Will your library have a specific public relations or marketing department for social media-related tasks? Is it up to each department to promote its own services? Is posting restricted to higher-level administrators? How are absences covered?
• What should be posted. Is there a specific brand voice your library is striving for? For example, some organizations thrive using informal, colloquial language, while others are taken seriously through more authoritative language. Should graphics follow a specific color scheme, and should routine types of posts such as program announcements follow a consistent format? A written brand strategy can also be helpful in addressing these questions.
• How to address problems. A specific crisis response protocol is important to establish before a controversial issue arises. For example, how will your library handle negative patron comments, or a post that inadvertently offends users? What will happen if one of your library’s accounts gets hacked? Try to plan ahead in case your library is ever tasked with the question of whether or not to remove user comments or photos.
• Security guidelines. Should two-factor authentication be enabled on the library’s accounts? Who has access to login information? Should passwords be changed regularly, and how are accounts secured when employees leave?

While employers are somewhat limited in the restrictions they may place on employees’ personal social media profiles that are maintained outside work hours, many policies request that staff explicitly state that their opinions are their own and may not necessarily reflect the official stance of their organization. For specific guidance concerning employees’ use of social media, it is always best to consult with a trusted attorney.

Other procedures to consider that may not necessarily be part of a formal policy can include the frequency and scheduling of posts, which may vary by network, and whether posts are planned ahead of time. Will your library dedicate specific days to certain types of posts? For instance, some popular routine postings include #BookfaceFriday or #ThrowbackThursday. 

Looking for some examples of strong social media policies? Check out these library and nonlibrary guidelines. Note that some organizations place their social media terms within a larger communications or internet policy. 

• Oradell Free Public Library: NJ
• Cook Memorial Public Library District: IL
• Roanoke Public Library: IN
• The Coca-Cola Company
• Dell

Some organizations have implemented public-facing policies governing user behavior on official social media accounts:

• Brooklyn Public Library
• Sno-Isle Libraries: WA
• Pima County Public Library: AZ

For additional help creating your own social media policy, two great resources are WebJunction and ALA.

Does your library have a social media policy, or are you thinking of creating one? Sound off or share yours in the comments! 

The post Staying Social: Why Your Library Needs Social Media Policies first appeared on Public Libraries Online.

If the idea of networking makes you antsy, you are not alone. The thought of putting yourself out there in front of strangers can be daunting for anyone, but it is likely especially nerve-wracking for librarians. According to a 1995 study by Mary Jane Scherdin and Anne K. Beaubien, 63% of library workers surveyed identified as introverts.^[1] Thanks to the recent rise of introversion in popular culture, due in no small part to the prevalence of works like Susan Cain’s 2012 book Quiet, this number has likely at least remained stable, if not increased.            

As an introvert myself, I recall being absolutely terrified before attending my first library networking event. The idea of making small talk with strangers was overwhelming, and I wasn’t completely clear on what I was setting out to accomplish for the evening. That event turned into a success once I settled in and made a couple of new friends, but, looking back, I do wish I had been more educated on the importance of networking before I started.

In an article for Business Insider, Rishi Chowdhury argues that networking has an incredibly high rate of return for the time invested.^[2] Ultimately, Chowdhury writes, networking is “not about whom you know, but rather who knows you.” Networking can pave the way for future opportunities, allow you to learn from key players in your field, and provide inspiration for your own work.

Personally, I have found this to be the case in my own career. For example, I was directly requested to apply for my current position; although I did not personally know the member of the hiring committee that reached out to me, she had heard about my work from our mutual connections. Through community networking, I have also found many strong opportunities for free or low-cost programming at my library.

Networking doesn’t have to be intimidating; nowadays, there are many approaches to suit different personality types and comfort levels. One way to ease into the practice is through committee work and professional organizations. This approach is helpful in the sense that you already have something in common with the professionals you’ll meet – a shared career interest (e.g. youth services, management in libraries, etc.) or demographic identifier (e.g. local women’s groups, etc.). Networking can also be virtual. ALA maintains a robust selection of email listservs, and 5 Minute Librarian maintains several lists of library-centric Facebook groups. Of course, many traditional networking events still exist, and speed networking is even available to those short on time.

How to make the most of networking once you’ve narrowed down your chosen approach? One of the top pieces of advice I can offer is to be genuine. Just as you need to keep in mind that the colleagues you’re meeting are just regular people, you must allow your own personality and passion for your work shine through. This not only will make you feel more comfortable because you won’t need to focus on putting on an act, but it will help others remember you in the future. Smiling and putting on a friendly face will also naturally help ease any nerves you may be experiencing.

In the same vein, try not to view those you’re connecting with as just numbers to add to your LinkedIn contacts. Creating a personal connection with someone will likely bring about more opportunities. After all, wouldn’t you be more interested in working with someone who shows interest in your role than someone who seems to be using you to get ahead? Who knows; even if this new contact does not wind up helping you in the career sense, he or she may become a friend. Alison Green offers more tips on creating a lasting network here.^[3]

Forbes offers several more pieces of advice as well.^[4] Much of the literature surrounding networking shows one key takeaway: when done well, it essentially boils down to meeting others and sharing your career passion with them. If you think about it that way, I promise it won’t seem as scary or overwhelming.

How has networking helped you as a librarian? Do you have a favorite piece of networking advice? Share it in the comments!

^[1] Mary Jane Scherdin and Anne K. Beaubien, “Shattering Our Stereotype: Librarians’ New Image,” Library Journal 120 no. 12 (1995): 35-38.

^[2] Chowdhury, Rishi. “The Importance of Networking.” Business Insider. May 26, 2011. Accessed March 29, 2019. https://www.businessinsider.com/the-importance-of-networking-2011-5.

^[3] Green, Alison. “Does Networking Have to be Slimy?” The Cut. March 13, 2018. Accessed March 29, 2019. https://www.thecut.com/article/ask-a-boss-does-networking-have-to-be-slimy.html

^[4] Forbes Communications Council. “10 Networking Tips to Help You Make a Great First Impression at an Event.” Forbes. April 23, 2018. Accessed March 29, 2019. https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbescommunicationscouncil/2018/04/23/10-networking-tips-to-help-you-make-a-great-first-impression-at-an-event/#1c8ed99e301b

The post It’s About Who Knows You first appeared on Public Libraries Online.

A recent New York Times interview^[1] with Ask a Manager blogger Alison Green discusses the potential pitfalls that could arise from viewing your colleagues as an extension of your family. Workplace animosity, of course, is not ideal, but being too intertwined with coworkers can ultimately be just as toxic. “It often means that boundaries get violated and people are expected to show inappropriate amounts of commitment and loyalty,” Green says.

It may sound counterintuitive, but it’s true. Imagine you are very close friends with your boss and receive a job offer from another library that would greatly enhance your career. Although you would benefit from making such a move, it might feel awkward leaving your friend. Or, you may feel uncomfortable saying no to a friend who asks you to cover more hours than you’re willing to work.

Harvard Business Review tackles the same topic in a recent article as well^[2]. Authors Darko Lovric and Tomas Chamorro-Premuzic note several famously successful pairs who didn’t always see eye to eye: Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak, Miles Davis and John Coltrane, and Shaquille O’Neal and Kobe Bryant. In these examples, differences of opinion often forced the duos to work through their disagreements, finding new sources of innovation. Too much harmony, the authors argue, can lead to complacency and inaction. This effect can be especially toxic in libraries, where keeping up with change is necessary for the organization’s survival.

No one is arguing for a dysfunctionally combative workplace, but occasional stress and conflict can be good for an organization’s overall productivity. They can also make it easier for you to stand up for yourself.

The biggest takeaway from Green’s interview is that it’s okay to put yourself first and treat work as work, as opposed to something you do solely out of the goodness of your heart. Although most administrations do not actively set out to take advantage of their employees, remain mindful that, at the end of the day, their loyalty lies with ensuring the library’s success. Therefore, set limits when you need them, and don’t feel guilty saying no to things because you might disappoint your friends. It’s perfectly fine to be friendly with your colleagues, but be sure to take care of yourself in the meantime. It just may help you and your library after all.

References and Resources

^[1] Herrara, Tim. “Your Workplace Isn’t Your Family (and That’s O.K.!).” New York Times, August 13, 2018. Accessed October 2, 2018. https://www.nytimes.com/2018/08/13/smarter-living/your-workplace-isnt-your-family-and-thats-ok.html.

^[2] Lovric, Darko and Tomas Chamorro-Premuzic. “Too Much Team Harmony Can Kill Your Creativity.” Harvard Business Review, June 28, 2018. Accessed October 2, 2018. https://hbr.org/2018/06/too-much-team-harmony-can-kill-creativity

The post Managing Your Workplace Relationships first appeared on Public Libraries Online.

The idea of monthly reports may conjure an image of long blocks of dry text and enough numbers to make your head spin. Equally boring for both the reader and the writer, these serious, lengthy reports often do little to convey your organization’s successes; the more dense they are, the less trustees and other stakeholders are likely to read them. If no one is reading them, is your library’s story really being told? Here are some tips for creating more interesting reports:

Break up long blocks of text or charts of numbers. Paragraphs of dense text and spreadsheets that span multiple pages are hard on the eyes. It’s a long-accepted rule of copywriting that the average reader scans long blocks of text rather than reading it closely; in today’s world where many board packets are distributed digitally, this rings true for report content as well.^[1] Instead of writing lengthy paragraphs, consider utilizing bullet points or subject headings to delineate new ideas. Determine which metrics are most important and draw attention to the numbers through a larger, bolder font.

Use an engaging format. Instead of the traditional letterhead or default word processing template, play with some basic graphic design to create an eye-catching report. My current favorite resource is Canva. This tool in particular has hundreds of colorful document templates. Even your favorite word processing software such as the Microsoft Office suite or Google Docs comes with template options that are easy to customize. Your reader will be more likely to spend time with – and remember – a document that stands out visually.

Include images. Perhaps the best way to stand out visually and call attention to what makes your library awesome is through graphics. This can come in the form of program photos, infographics to display hard data, or screenshots of patron comments from social media. In addition to being visually appealing, graphics are another great way to break up chunks of text. When I began including photos from successful events in my annual report to my town council three years ago, several readers commented that they were better able to understand what goes on at the library on a regular basis. Seeing visual evidence of happy patrons also makes stakeholders more likely to advocate for the library and remember specific examples of why its presence is so important.

How do you make your reports stand out? Have a question or need ideas? Share your story in the comments!

References

^[1] Wilson, Pamela. “8 Incredibly Simple Ways to Get More People to Read Your Content.” Copyblogger. September 1, 2016. Accessed August 28, 2018. https://www.copyblogger.com/scannable-content/

The post How to Write a Monthly Report That Stakeholders Will Actually Read first appeared on Public Libraries Online.

I’ve experienced micromanagement at various points in my career, both in and out of libraries. At two workplaces in particular, it was so severe that I became miserable enough to change jobs. Unfortunately, from speaking to other librarians, my situation was not unique.

One colleague, who wishes to remain anonymous, worked for a library in which all employees were required to submit a weekly write-up to management detailing what they worked on each day. In this case, the supervisor was unwilling to write up one particular employee for performance issues; as a result, the entire team had to suffer. This killed morale. The librarian notes, “the slackers resented having to work, [and] the workers resented being treated like children.”

Another librarian shared a story of a workplace in which all emails had to pass a supervisor’s approval before being sent, and office supplies were not permitted on service desks. Yet another, a children’s librarian, was forced to submit a write-up of every single program she planned to her manager. “I had never  felt so criticized and scrutinized for a job I knew how to do well,” she said. The experience was so poor that she left public libraries as a result.

Clearly, something needs to change. At the worst, micromanagement causes an organization to outright lose important talent. At the best, according to Bell, it erodes trust and can turn a workplace toxic over time. This perceived lack of trust can also prove detrimental to an employee’s psyche. For example, a micromanager at my previous job forced me to question my worth as a librarian so much that I felt fearful at my new job for months after starting. Of course, these fears turned out to be unwarranted, but do we as a profession really want to make our workers feel this way, especially in the age of increasing imposter syndrome?

As a field, how do we overcome this habit? It starts with supervisors taking a hard look at their actions and admitting whether they are micromanagers. This means kicking the habit of thinking nothing can be accomplished without them. Bell recommends creating a to-do list of departmental or library-wide responsibilities, and determining what can be delegated to other staff. Once a task has been assigned, the manager should clarify when his or her direct involvement is needed, and leave the rest to be handled on its own.¹ Additionally, micromanagers should focus on simply telling their reports what needs to be done, as opposed to how to do it.

Although difficult, it’s not impossible to overcome a habit of micromanagement. The benefits of doing so – improved morale, productivity, and employee retention – are incredible.

Have you been micromanaged in a library? How did you handle it?

Reference

1. Bell, Steven. “Micromanaging Library Leaders Rarely Know the Damage They Do.” Library Journal. December 20, 2017. Accessed February 2, 2018. http://lj.libraryjournal.com/2017/12/opinion/leading-from-the-library/micromanaging-library-leaders-rarely-know-damage-leading-library/#_.

The post The Dangers of Micromanagement first appeared on Public Libraries Online.

Jensen writes, “Working in a public library means working with the public. Librarians are taught to deal with mental illness. Taught to deal with homelessness. Taught to deal with hard and personal reference issues with dignity and professionalism. But librarians are not taught what to do when they become the victim of harassment.”

This is a key problem in our field today, and one that we must address. Having worked in public libraries since I was 15, I have plenty of stories I could share about being harassed by patrons, as well as colleagues. I suspect many, if not most, public librarians do. I could write about the unwanted physical advance I received from a colleague a few years ago, or the patron who followed me home from work one night. I could write about the middle-aged man who used to compliment me at the circulation desk when I worked evenings as a (barely 18 year-old) college student, or the person who ran my license plate to find out who I was last year. Recently, a conversation came up with some of my colleagues about lying to patrons about our relationship statuses; many of us were guilty of it. I myself have been known to throw on a fake engagement ring when I see certain patrons enter the building. And that is not okay.

Unfortunately, our job duties of being helpful to the public sometimes make us sitting ducks for harassment. As a profession, we could collect hundreds – probably thousands – of similar stories from people across the library industry. But when are we going to do something about it?

As Macbride writes, much workplace training in today’s world focuses on harassment between employees. That certainly exists in libraries – something I unfortunately can personally attest to – but the bigger risk is harassment by the public. Because, she writes, we are often evaluated by management based on our customer service skills, it can make it that much harder to say no to a patron or tell him to stop whatever he’s doing. We’re in the business of making people happy and saying “yes” as much as possible. We want people to like us so they continue to use us. We depend on high rates of patron interaction to remain relevant in today’s world of shrinking budgets and constant questions about our necessity.

So, how as a profession do we address this? I don’t have an easy answer. Neither do Jensen or Macbride. It’s an incredibly complex issue that, until recently, until #MeToo and #TimesUp went mainstream, was taboo to speak about.

The first step is to talk about it. Keep talking about it, even when it makes people uncomfortable. The more aware we are of the problem, the more we can work on fixing it. Due to the nature of working with the public, it’s unlikely to ever go away completely, but perhaps calling more attention to it will make harassers think twice before behaving badly.

Have you been a victim of harassment at your workplace? Have an idea for prevention? Share your story in the comments.

References

^[1] Katie Macbride, “#TimesUp on Harassing Your Public Librarian,” Shondaland, January 31, 2018, https://www.shondaland.com/act/a15876574/timesup-on-harassing-your-public-librarian/

^[2] Kelly Jensen, “The State of Sexual Harassment in the Library,” Book Riot, October 24, 2017, https://bookriot.com/2017/10/24/sexual-harassment-library/

The post Ending Sexual Harassment at the Public Library first appeared on Public Libraries Online.

Whatever your guess, a recent article from Reader’s Digest references a Barnes & Noble survey that names the day before Thanksgiving as the busiest reading day of the year, a title that makes sense given how many people tend to spend time commuting that day.^[1] Author Meghan Jones notes that 77 percent of those surveyed admit to reading then, and 28 percent rely on what they’ve read to help distract from drama-ridden Thanksgiving dinner conversation topics. Jones also includes a copy of the retailer’s accompanying infographic, which offers book suggestions for different types of travels.

Although the November and December holidays may be over, this article still provides some clever ideas for reader’s advisory that librarians can tailor to their own patrons. The infographic format is a great way of offering bite-sized recommendations for specific circumstances (e.g. “Small Journeys” through “Very Long Journeys”) without appearing dense or overwhelming. It is also visually appealing and on-trend with current digital marketing practices.

Recently, I created an infographic to highlight some of my library’s titles that would be suitable as holiday gifts.^[2] Our patrons responded well to it when it was posted to our website and social media accounts, and I plan to make more in 2018. Such graphics are easy to make using free online tools like Piktochart and Canva, and they can work for any type of reader’s advisory. Want to serve up a list of readalikes to popular TV shows? Create an infographic with sections for different shows. Interested in a list of fairy tale retellings? Your creation can contain sections for various story archetypes. The possibilities are endless.

Much of the information in Jones’ article and Barnes & Noble’s suggestions can also prove timely if recycled during the summer, when travel again hits a peak. Seasonal content helps make us more relevant to patrons in their everyday lives, and they will appreciate your suggestions!

Have you implemented infographics in your reader’s advisory strategy? Tell us about it in the comments!

References

^[1] Jones, Meghan. “The Busiest Reading Day of the Year Has Been Revealed.” Reader’s Digest. Accessed January 2, 2018. https://www.rd.com/advice/travel/busiest-reading-day-year/.

^[2] “Best Books to Gift in 2017.” Worth-Pinkham Memorial Library. December 9, 2017. Accessed January 2, 2018. https://hohokus.bccls.org/news/best-books-to-gift-in-2017.

The post Using Infographics to Enhance Reader’s Advisory first appeared on Public Libraries Online.

An October 3 report from the BBC states weddings are one of several suggestions to revitalize library services and raise needed funds.^[1] This proposal was mentioned in a September 2017 Mayoral Report published by the Liverpool Library Advisory Task Group.^[2] The fifty-page document recommends “paid tours, weddings and other income generating activities” as part of a “commercial strategy to generate income for the Library Service.” According to the BBC, there is the potential for the library to collaborate on weddings with the historic Liverpool venue St. George’s Hall.

As novel as it may sound, Liverpool’s wedding idea is not entirely new; various U.S. libraries are already offering weddings. Popular wedding website The Knot, prominently featured the wedding of NFL defensive end Devon Still and his wife Asha, held at the famous Stephen A. Schwarzman building of the New York Public Library, as its “Dream Wedding” of 2016.^[3] This high-profile ceremony inspired a list of seven other libraries-turned-wedding-venues.^[4] A couple of the notable entries on the list include the Boston Public Library and Johns Hopkins’ George Peabody Library.

With many libraries already renting meeting room space, serving as wedding venues should not come as a great surprise. At the end of the day, weddings are events in the same way that meetings of community groups or local businesses are. The appeal to couples is certainly there as well: with costs rising, perhaps it is more palatable to know that the fees help the library with its fundraising efforts.

Would you consider hosting weddings at your library? Could this be another source of much-needed revenue? Share your thoughts in the comments!

References

^[1] “Wedding proposal for future of Liverpool’s libraries.” BBC News. October 3, 2017. Accessed October 24, 2017. http://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-merseyside-41482242.

^[2] Liverpool Library Advisory Task Group. “Mayoral Report.” September 2017. Accessed October 24, 2017. http://councillors.liverpool.gov.uk/documents/s215110/LATG%20Report%20September%202017%20031017.pdf.

^[3] Cooper, Kristen Maxwell. “NFL Player Devon Still & Asha Joyce Are Married!” The Knot. Accessed October 24, 2017. https://www.theknot.com/content/the-knot-dream-wedding-2016-photos.

^[4] Anton, Carrie. “7 Stunning Libraries Where You Can Get Married.” The Knot. Accessed October 24, 2017. https://www.theknot.com/content/library-wedding-venues.

The post A Different Kind of Proposal: Weddings in the Library first appeared on Public Libraries Online.

Pew defines Millennials as 18-35 year-olds as of the fall of 2016, the time at which the survey was administered. According to the study, 53 percent of the age group had used a public library or bookmobile within the previous year. The average across all adults 18 and older was 46 percent. After Millennials, the most voracious library users were those born during Generation X (ages 36-51) at 45 percent.

Perhaps not surprisingly, Millennials also ranked first (41%) in visiting library websites. This figure is substantially higher than the overall adult average of 31 percent. Only 8 percent of Millennials, however, noted having used a library’s app in the previous twelve months, slightly behind Gen X and Baby Boomers (both 9%).

Pew offers a few suggestions as to why Millennials are such frequent library patrons. Increased technology offerings, as well as meeting spaces and programs for young children, were cited based on the results of earlier studies. Today, libraries not only offer technology and makerspaces within their physical buildings, but many lend e-content as well. New parents likely seek family programming to socialize their children and meet their peers.

Perhaps economics also plays a role; by definition, younger Millennials are in the early stages of their careers or even still in school. Older Millennials are likely just starting families of their own. Either way, many individuals of this generation lack significant expendable income for entertainment.

Other demographics gleaned from Pew’s research are that women are more likely than men to use public libraries (54% compared to 39%), as are parents of children under 18 compared to non-parents (54% vs. 43%). These findings are consistent with previous Pew reports.

Studies such as this one are essential in developing library programs and services. It is also heartening to see that younger generations are champions of libraries in a time during which our relevancy is often brought into question. How do you plan to meet Millennials’ needs in your library? Have you seen an increase in this age group coming through your doors? Let us know in the comments!

References

[1] Geiger, Abigail. “Millennials are the most likely generation of Americans to use public libraries.” Pew Research Center. June 21, 2017. Accessed July 10, 2017. http://www.pewresearch.org/fact-tank/2017/06/21/millennials-are-the-most-likely-generation-of-americans-to-use-public-libraries/.

The post Millennials Love Public Libraries first appeared on Public Libraries Online.

First, it’s important to note that good design is essential to any library’s marketing efforts. Through visually appealing flyers and social media posts, patrons are more likely to notice your library’s events and services. In terms of flyers, it is important to strike the right balance between just enough information and sufficient whitespace. This enhances readability and is easy on the eye. Here is a list of the tools discussed by our panel:

• Canva: Canva is a cloud-based web service that allows users to create a variety of designs: flyers, social media posts, letterhead, logos, resumes, and more. The free version is fully functional and provides access to many rotating templates, stock photos, and clip art. A paid subscription is available as well, and your library, Friends group, or foundation may want to consider applying for a nonprofit account. Because it is cloud-based, it is easy to create designs on one device and later edit them from another without having to email files back and forth or save them to a flash drive. I have begun to use Canva for almost all of my library graphic design projects.
• Tech Soup: Tech Soup is not a design tool per se, but it provides low-cost access to professional software such as the Adobe Creative Suite and Microsoft Office. Once your library has a Tech Soup account, you can apply for subsidized licenses from these vendors and many more. Over the years, it has saved my library a lot of money on software for both staff and public use.
• LibraryAware: LibraryAware is a subscription program that can create e-newsletters, flyers, bookmarks, and more. It is very easy to incorporate your library’s branding so it is consistent and recognizable across designs. The annual cost for this service depends on the size of your organization.
• Google Drive: The Google suite of applications includes many that can be used for flyers and signs, including Docs (equivalent to Microsoft Word), Slides (equivalent to PowerPoint), and Drawings (good for creating charts, graphs, and graphics to import into other programs). All applications are free with a Google account. Like Canva, Google Drive is cloud-based, so designs can be accessed easily between devices. It is great for working in a collaborative environment.
• Piktochart: Piktochart got its start focusing on infographics, which can be great for conveying information about your library and its collections and services. It can also be used for flyers. This resource offers both free and paid versions; designs created with the free model contain a small watermark with the company’s name.

The panel also explored some of the numerous resources for copyright-free images. One favorite was the photo search tool located in Google Docs and Google Slides. Through this tool, a user can search Google Images (restricting results to those that are labeled for reuse), LIFE Magazine’s historic images, and stock photos. Other sources include Flickr (again, restricting results to copyright-free images), Open Clip Art, Unsplash, and Pexels.

Because many public libraries face limited budgets for marketing and public relations, it is important to utilize design tools that are as low-cost as possible. Do you have a favorite resource that isn’t listed here? Let us know in the comments!

References

^[1] “Graphic Design on a Shoestring.” NJLA Annual Conference. 2017. Accessed April 25, 2017. http://njlaconference.info/content/graphic-design-shoestring.

The post Graphic Design on a Shoestring first appeared on Public Libraries Online.

A recent CNN article^[1] by Robert Jimison details this trend. The first component of a stuffed animal sleepover is a story time, often featuring animal-related stories such as Mo Willems’ Knuffle Bunny: A Cautionary Tale. Afterward, the children leave their toys behind for the evening. Librarians or teen volunteers take photos of the animals around the library—the more mischievous, the better. Children may pick up their fluffy friends the following day.

Jimison notes a recent study published by the online journal Heliyon that discusses the value of such programs. The study focused on 42 Japanese children who attended an event with their toys. The results were positive, displaying an increased interest in picture books. Some of the preschoolers also exhibited brand new behavior of reading to their stuffed animals afterwards.

Photo Courtesy of Gretchen Kaser

The crux of this program is it makes reading fun for its participants. Further, photos of the stuffed animals “reading” model positive behavior for the children. Jimison quotes William Teale, professor at the University of Illinois at Chicago and president of the International Literacy Association: “[Kids will] look at pictures in a book, and they’ll start to use some of the words in the book”. Getting into this habit at such a young age helps children become lifelong readers.

Teale also notes the importance of adding literacy to everyday activities in the home. Stuffed animal play is a perfect example of this. Making reading part of a child’s daily routine is “crucial” to the development of a “curious mind”.

Over the last four years, I have run several stuffed animal sleepovers, and they have been consistently well received. Children delight in seeing what their toys did overnight, and my staff and volunteers enjoy taking creative photos. Parents have also stated leaving the animals behind helps foster a sense of independence in their children, along with a love of reading.

Have you offered stuffed animal sleepovers at your library? Let us know in the comments!

References

^[1] Jimison, Robert. “After a night at the library, stuffed animals help kids read.” CNN. February 28, 2017. Accessed March 5, 2017. http://www.cnn.com/2017/02/28/health/stuffed-animals-reading-study/.

The post Trend Alert: Stuffed Animal Sleepovers first appeared on Public Libraries Online.

According to a recent Forbes article,^[1] my thinking may not be so off-base. Megy Karydes describes Silent Reading Parties, live lit, and library bars as a growing trend of sharing literature with friends without the stress and “homework” of a traditional book club. Silent Reading Parties, coined by Christopher Frizelle in 2010, involve gathering in a bar or other locale to read in companionable silence. There is no assigned reading, and the meetings are open to all. Silent Book Club tracks upcoming parties around the world.

Live Lit refers to readings and book discussions, both of which already take place in many bars and coffeehouses. These types of events are far more widespread than Silent Reading Parties, which do not yet have chapters across the entire United States. Most public libraries offer some type of live lit, even if it does not involve drinking.

Library bars are exactly what they sound like: library-themed bars. Some bars, according to Karydes, even contain small libraries for their patrons to browse. The author notes popular locations in San Francisco and Chicago.

How does a public library capitalize on this trend? I love the idea of hosting a Silent Reading Party of our own. Although it may not necessarily involve liquor if held onsite, we could still offer food and nonalcoholic beverages for participants. Personally, I would love nothing more at this time of year than to curl up with a good book and a cup of hot chocolate.

The other option would be to leverage such a program as a form of community outreach and partner up with a local bar or restaurant. Meeting outside the library would allow more freedom in terms of food and drink, and it may attract participants who do not currently visit the library. As a whole, these types of programs are likely helpful with attracting the ever-elusive millennial crowd.

Have you held any live lit events or Silent Reading Parties at your library? Do you frequent them as a reader? Let us know in the comments!

References

^[1] Megy Karydes, “Toast the Library Bars, Silent Reading Parties, and Live Lit in 2017,” Forbes, December 27, 2016.

The post Reading Parties Are Having a Moment first appeared on Public Libraries Online.

Unsurprisingly, both librarians discussed the prevalence of downloading and streaming collections, such as Overdrive and Hoopla. Many users, they stated, rely solely on digital borrowing without ever physically visiting the library. Listeners called into the show excitedly touting these services and praising their ease for those with an on-the-go lifestyle.

During this conversation, Dunn indicated she was unaware libraries offered this service. Once aware of it, her reaction was positive. This response does not particularly surprise me, as many members of our community are unaware of our e-offerings, despite my library’s marketing efforts.

Another takeaway was that while circulation of physical items may be dropping, more people are visiting the library for programs. The importance of family library programs was discussed, as well as the role of the library as a community center. Foot traffic for these types of events and resources is higher than ever in many public libraries, and both Kiley and Krieg-Sigman spoke about their significance.

This episode mirrored many other discussions I have been seeing in the library industry over the last few years. Library users generally have a positive view of what we offer and like that we are more than just a traditional repository for books. This drives home the importance of thinking outside the box and offering more untraditional services. Digital lending and increased programming are just the first step of this, but both are excellent examples of learning and responding to our patrons’ needs.

Additionally, this episode drives home the importance of marketing our services. Dunn clearly possesses a love for libraries but still did not know about our digital initiatives. As such, it is likely that many members of our communities who do not frequent public libraries are also unaware. This is certainly something to keep in mind as we evaluate our offerings.

Have you noticed similar trends in your library? How relevant do you feel to your community? Share your thoughts in the comments!

References

[1] “How Relevant Is Your Public Library to You?” Interview. October 25, 2016. Accessed November 28, 2016. http://www.wpr.org/how-relevant-your-public-library-you.

The post Public Libraries: How Relevant Are They? first appeared on Public Libraries Online.

When I opted to pursue my MLIS, I was already removed from college and working full-time. I knew it was not financially feasible for me to stop working or to dramatically reduce my hours. The nearest on-site MLIS program to me did not offer many of the classes I wanted to focus on, and it was not realistic for me to relocate out of state. Having met several colleagues who had pursued their degrees online, I felt that was my best option as well.

The program I eventually settled on was a hybrid: not entirely online, and not entirely on-campus. It required a trip to campus one weekend a semester to meet with our classmates and professors. Additionally, each online course had an on-campus counterpart. Those lectures were recorded live and made available for asynchronous viewing. Each class also incorporated discussion boards, and some had weekly synchronous chats. Since I had never taken an online class before, I felt more comfortable with this approach than attending solely online.

I was happy with my program and would make the same choice again if given the chance. The hybrid approach allowed me to feel connected to my classmates and the LIS faculty, and the online nature allowed me to work around my professional life. I felt that I received the best of both worlds, and I am very grateful that I took the time to consider the merits of different types of online programs.

Cusick’s findings, however, were not quite as positive. She noted feeling disconnected from her classmates, especially in terms of communication. Her class utilized a virtual hand-raising function through Blackboard Collaborate for those who wished to speak during a lecture. This, she found, disrupted the flow of discussion and made it harder to pay attention.

Clearly every school takes a somewhat different approach to online education, and some work better than others. Additionally, MLIS students’ needs vary depending on their own unique situations. My biggest piece of advice to prospective students considering getting their degree online would be to look at the different options and see which best meets their criteria and learning styles. Not every approach will work for everyone; however, it is not realistic to completely condemn online learning as being bad. Rather, it is all about finding the style that’s best for you and your lifestyle.

Did you receive your MLIS online? How would you rate your experience?

REFERENCES

^[1] Cusick, Rachael. “An Online Education Disconnect.” Slate. September 12, 2016. Accessed September 24, 2016. 

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3-D printers are perhaps one of the most obvious creation tools that have started to penetrate today’s libraries. Weller writes this shift will transform libraries into places where people go to create the future, rather than research the past. Eventually, libraries could pave the way for creation in areas like genetic engineering and alternate reality. It is possible, he writes, that in fifty years our patrons would check out experiences such as visiting other planets or thinking like a dog, just as they currently check out books or DVDs.

Eventually, today’s flood of traditional data will shift into a human desire to access “sensory data,” he writes. Sensory data is essentially the act of sharing others’ experiences. Through this change, he argues that librarians will remain as important as ever as they help patrons make sense of this information. We will need to help patrons navigate this sensory data landscape, as well as continuing to give them a physical space to create.

The majority of Weller’s speculation does not surprise me. As we see 3-D printing become increasingly prevalent in society, especially in the fields of medicine and engineering, I see libraries as more important than ever in providing spaces for our patrons to create. Additionally, the runaway success of Pokémon GO’s virtual reality technology suggests to me that we are not terribly far away from superimposing more complex experiences onto our own lives. Libraries are a great candidate to provide these services and experiences.

It is refreshing to see a mainstream news article discuss the positive aspects of libraries and how they can transform to remain meaningful in the future. Does Weller’s research coincide how you see libraries evolving? Where do you see public libraries in fifty years?

References

^[1] Weller, Chris. “Libraries of the Future Are Going to Change in Some Unexpected Ways.” Business Insider. August 24, 2016. Accessed September 9, 2016. http://www.businessinsider.com/libraries-of-the-future-2016-8?r=UK&IR=T.

The post The Library of the Future Is Coming, and It’s All About Experience first appeared on Public Libraries Online.

The educational benefits of some recurring programs are obvious. For example, our weekly summer storytimes sharpen literacy skills, and our craft sessions promote creativity and problem solving. Finding an educational tie-in for this year’s one-off events was slightly more challenging as we used Collaborate Summer Library Program’s themes of “On Your Mark, Get Set…Read!” and “Get in the Game: Read.”

Although the tie-in between sports and education was not immediately obvious, it worked well for us. The themes provided a great avenue to make learning fun. One of our most successful programs was a huge obstacle course; prior to letting the participants go through it, our presenter gathered them for a PowerPoint and discussion about the history of the Olympics. The kids loved the opportunity to compare their performances with the obstacles with Olympic events from years past. After the children completed the course, the presenter spoke about nutrition and started a related craft.

Another successful program was a visit from a search-and-rescue dog and its handler, a representative of New Jersey Search and Rescue. This presenter went over safety tips for hiking and how to handle getting lost, both important lessons that tied into our summer reading theme. Several children and their caregivers indicated afterwards that they wanted to read more about the topic of outdoor safety.

Even our Pokémon GO programming encouraged students to learn through exploring their neighborhoods. Participants also learned to work together towards a common goal as they hunted for Pokémon in the library. Similarly to our search-and-rescue program, many participants opted to further research the origin of the game and game development afterwards.

In an effort to appeal to more members, not all of our summer programming focused on the national theme. For example, we held an indoor planetarium event, in which participants could see constellations, planets, and more superimposed inside a large inflatable tent. This was one of our more obviously educational programs, as it taught the kids about astronomy; however, it was just as well attended as many of our sports-themed events.

Based on patrons’ feedback, this year’s summer program was a success. Kids not only had fun by reading and attending programs but also learned about topics they may not have been exposed to otherwise.

How have you incorporated learning into your library’s summer initiatives? Let us know in the comments.

The post Keeping Learning Alive at your Library first appeared on Public Libraries Online.

One excellent starting point for librarians is ASPR TRACIE’s “Post-Mass Shootings Programs and Resources Overview.” ASPR (the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response) is a division of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and operates TRACIE (Technical Resources, Assistance Center, and Information Exchange). TRACIE’s mission is to provide reliable information to those working in public health and emergency management, but anyone affected by a major emergency can access its high-quality resources.

This document, relating specifically to the June 12, 2016, shooting at Orlando’s Pulse nightclub but applicable to other events, contains a comprehensive list of programs, behavioral health and LGBT support resources, and subject matter experts. Each entry includes a brief description and contact information, where applicable, and the document’s format makes it easy to find the necessary information at a glance.

The depth of TRACIE’s compilation makes it a great reference for responding to patrons’ needs that extend beyond the typical news story. While some entries are specific to the Orlando area, others are more general and therefore well suited to anyone coping with a mass shooting or other attack as well as general trauma. Many Spanish translations are included as well. Most importantly, each entry is a reliable source of information, so librarians and patrons alike can be confident they are receiving the best content available.

As a librarian, I would make such a resource available to patrons in a few different ways. This document would be helpful to keep at service desks for ready reference. Given the sensitive nature of the content, not all patrons may feel comfortable directly asking a staff member for help; therefore, I would also link to the most applicable resources online via the library’s website and/or social media accounts. If your library has a place for physical handouts, a list of recommended resources could be put out for patrons to take home as well.

Has your library received reference questions centering on these recent events? How are you handling them?

Resources

ASPR TRACIE: Post-Mass Shootings Programs and Resources Overview

ASPR TRACIE Homepage

The post Library Resources for Dealing with Mass Shootings first appeared on Public Libraries Online.