June 2018 - Michlib-l - liblists.org

CADL picks up endorsement
by Smiley,Trent 29 Jun '18

29 Jun '18

https://on.lsj.com/2KvAd2a

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Compiled list of 1000 Books before kindergarten responses
by Marla Drury 29 Jun '18

29 Jun '18

Hi all, I had a couple requests for this info, so here is what I've received regarding running the 1000 Books Before Kindergarten program at public libraries. Thank you to everyone who provided the information! Here at the Bay County Library system, we have advertised the program in a few different ways: 1) Posters in the children's departments, in our newsletter, on our webpage ( <http://www.baycountylibrary.org/children/1000books/)> http://www.baycountylibrary.org/children/1000books/) put an ad for it in this year's summer reading program log, sent a flyer through the ISD's email distribution list, mailed a paper flyer to all of the daycares and preschools on our mailing list, made it our children's Facebook page's cover photo for a few months, etc. We will be starting distributing baby bags to newborns at the Bay City hospital in the fall and they will have the our 1000 Books logo on them. We also heavily promote the program at storytimes and other early childhood programs. It's a program that gets a ton of word of mouth exposure as well. 2) Our incentive structure: * Sign Up Prize: Bag We had these custom printed (about $1/bag). * Every 100 books read: Sticker (these are from Demco's 1000 Books line of materials) * After 300 Books: Rubber duck * After 500 books completed: Bubbles * After 800 Books: Crayons and small coloring book * Final Prize (1,000 books completed): Board Book or Paperback and Certificate 3) The bags are about $1 each, the rest of the prizes are from Oriental Trading. The books run $5-7 each. I'd guess about $10/child that finishes. It would definitely be possible to do this more cheaply. Our program is funded by the Friends of the Bay County Libraries. We let patrons pick up a reading log in the library, print it off our website, or use the 1000 Books free app. Picking up the logs in the library is the most popular option but we like to give our users flexibility. 4) We started 9/1/2017 and had 667 participants in the county as of the end of March. We do these stats quarterly so we will be collecting them again shortly. We have had a bunch of kids start recently after learning about the program through our SRP logs. We set a goal of 500 kids by the end of 2017 and that was basically bang on. Our service area population is about 110,000 people. Cadillac Library: We started the program in last September at the urging of a few determined patrons and I'm glad we did! We have over 100 children signed up for the program and the response has been terrific. We advertised the program through our usual channels: handouts, Facebook, Website, Storytimes, etc. and I did a short news segment that has been circulating for a couple of months on a local channel. We structure the program so at each 100 book mark, the child receives a small prize and they get to move their raccoon up the tree display we have made. Prizes are small and affordable. 100: 3 stickers 200: 3 stickers 300: 3 stickers and a squirt toy 400: 3 stickers 500: 3 stickers and a book 600: 3 stickers 700: 3 stickers 800: 3 stickers and a container of bubbles 900: 3 stickers 1,000: Free book bag, a book plate placed in your favorite library book that reads, "'Child's Name' has read 1,000 books before kindergarten!", and your raccoon becomes a star on the tree display I estimate that prizes cost us around $8/participant, all together. We do not require caregivers to track titles. They just cross off animals on a large sheet to indicate when they've read a book. We allow repeat books, books read by family members, and books heard in storytime to be counted as well. I can send you a copy of one of our log sheets, if you like. We've had four kids complete the program, and we have around a dozen who are within 200 books of completion. Families really enjoy having a program just for babies and I think it's produced some really positive results. Over the next year, I would like to look at ways to encourage lower income families to participate. - How you advertise the program to your patrons : initially we did heavy promotion with information in the local little paper, on Facebook, handouts, etc. But now we have a small display at circulation (a stuffed penguin wearing the t-shirt that with the 1000 books logo with @ the Rauchholz Memorial Library" on it with a sign that says "ask us about". - What incentives you use to encourage participation/completion of the program: just the prizes and fun of reading. For each 100 books the kids choose a small toy/trinket out of the treasure book box, for 500 they choose a beanie baby (a patron donated her whole collection of over 100 of them to us) and for the 1000 they get the t-shirt. They also get a sticker too that says I read 100, 200, etc. - An estimated cost to the library to participate in the program (incentive purchases, printing, etc.) Biggest expense for us was the t-shirts but our Friends group paid for those (it was $250 for 100 shirts from a local custom print/embroidery shop, this was about 3 years ago). It cost us $50 to have our "fill in booklets" printed at the local print shop. As for incentives, we used items we have left over from summer reading programs and also purchased stickers/tattoos/small carnival style toys on Amazon or through Oriental Trading. - Participation numbers and trends as the program continued: we have almost 50 kids currently signed up and have had 8 finishers so far. The hardest part is to keep the parents active in doing the program. - Any other info I might have missed that would be relevant! if you plan on using "1000 books before kindergarten" you do need to get permission to do so. The theme/slogan is copyrighted and patented. All you need to do is email them about wanting to do the program and they respond which is their permission and they also will send you 2 of their books on the program (at least they sent us books). https://1000booksbeforekindergarten.org/ They will also had you to their list so anyone in your area searching for this type of program can find your library. The Ionia Community Library has been running the program in collaboration with the Ionia County Library Association. There are seven total libraries in our county including Lyons, Portland, Belding, Lake Odessa, Saranac, and Clarksville. 1.) I initially got the word out via word of mouth and traditional paper flyers in the library. We also advertised on our Facebook page, website, and our email blast. Eventually I was able to reach out to the pediatrician's offices in town and the Ionia County Great Start Collaborative. One of our brochures is included in every single newborn packet given in Ionia County. 2.) We offer a very small prize for every 100 books the child completes. We hold them in a treasure chest behind the circ desk. When they pass 500 books, they receive a green tote bag with the 1,000 books logo printed on it. At 1,000 books the child receives a certificate, a free book, and I get a write-up in the local newspaper. 3.) I'm not entirely sure as to the exact costs of everything involved, but I will tell you that we went and got multiple grants that totaled around $5,000 to be spent between the seven libraries over 5 years. 4.) Enrollment and participation come in bursts. For instance, I stopped offering the summer reading program for children under the age of 3. Instead, I have them enroll in the 1,000 books program instead. At three years old, the child can do both SRP and 1KB4K. In order to encourage participation, I display all of the kids' names on poster board in our picture book room. I keep an excel spreadsheet with all of their names and I update progress as they go. When kids turn in their sheets, I mark it and move their names up the list. I'll attach a picture. I don't use last names, so I won't have to blur anything out. All in all, in 2.5 years, I have 201 children enrolled, and 16 who have finished. That might seem like a stark disparity, but speaking from experience, it's really easy to forget about the program if you're a busy family. I have the highest numbers in Ionia County. My "pie in the sky" goal was to have 100 new enrollments per year. I haven't quite gotten there, but now I don't believe that that number was realistic for Ionia county. I don't require children to finish before they hit kindergarten, only enroll before they do. I don't think it's fair to stop encouraging them to read just because they entered school. 5.) I'll also attach a copy of our tracking sheets that we give the children so you can see what we do. Have fun! It's a great program that just about runs itself!!! T.A. Cutler Memorial Library I have some information for you on what we have done so far. We started the program in September 2016 and had 7 kids sign up. Last year we had 9 sign up. So far only 1 child has finished. I'm sure a couple others did as well, but neglected to come in and officially finish. I will be promoting it again in September. (And reminding those who have signed up to keep on reading!) I advertise the program with posters & signs in the library from Aug.- May. I take them down during summer reading program. I also have flyers ready to pass out to any parents or grandparents that bring children to Story Hour. I always mention it at the first Story Hour in September and then whenever new families come. And, there are flyers on our circulation counter, in case someone asks and I am not here. I haven't done any incentives, I have noticed that some of the families/parents are super motivated and others not so much. I had thought of making a display for the kids room this fall and maybe give out little items for each 100 goal achieved. For example: stickers, pencils, temp. tattoos, door hangers etc. (This is all stuff I have on hand from previous summer reading programs.) I give a certificate of completion when the child reaches 1,000 and I am thinking of adding their picture to my display wall. Maybe this will encourage participation. I have also considered giving them a book when they complete the program, but have not done this so far. I don't know how much we spent on our initial purchase of supplies, but I do have someone who is interested in sponsoring if I decide to get incentives and if I need more supplies. Homer Public Library Here in Homer we advertise our program to all our new patrons, to our preschool parents (with flyers) and our Facebook and Web page. We offer the kids a reusable book bag with a board book, a sheet to keep track of 100 books (available on the 1000 books website), stickers and a bookmark with ideas for reading with their child. We ask one of our local McDonald's to donate Happy Meal certificates, we obtained a grant for books to give away and have small puzzles or other small incentives for each 100 books that they read. Each time they reach 100 books they have their name placed on a die cut train car that we hang on our wall. When they reach a 1000 books we give them a special easy first reader book with their name in it, and a gift card to Barnes and Noble. The program took a few years to take off. Parents needed to see train cars going up on the wall before a lot of them bought into the program. Now we have about 80 kids signed up with about half coming in on a semi regular basis to turn in 100 book sheets. We have had 5 children reach their 1000 books and they haven't reached Kindergarten yet! They asked to start again and we strongly encouraged them to do just that. Costs have been some of the small prizes, reprinting the 100 book sheets, stickers and the Barnes and Noble cards. I think we have spent about $500 or less. I am able to get donations and grants for different things, so that has helped a great deal. Novi Public Library I'm from the Novi Public Library and I wanted to share some information about our 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten program which we call Raising a Reader in Novi. We have designed glossy logs for families to write the titles of the books they read and I've attached a PDF version to this email for you to see. We also have an online option using the Beanstack software. For each 100 books read, the child earns a small prize. The 1st prize is a book. We ordered books through Third Week Books which contain early literacy information for parents. 2nd-9th prizes are items like stickers, bubbles, small box of crayons, lacing cards, etc (from Oriental Trading). The final prize is a rubber "medal" that says "You're a Star," an invitation to a special party held each September, and their choice of book to be added to our collection with a special name plate inside. Our overarching theme for this program is Eric Carle so all of the prizes, photo booth, and party are coordinated in this way. After each log is turned in, we have a special photo booth for children to take a picture at with a sign marking each 100 books. This photo booth is changed out seasonally. We have pictures on the Raising a Reader page on our website <http://novilibrary.org/Youth/Raising-a-Reader-in-Novi.aspx> . Our logs cost $845 for 5,000 logs and are ordered from Accuform. Our annual budget line for Raising a Reader is $3,000. This amount covers prizes, reordering logs, and the annual party. We advertise our program every chance we get! We advertise on social media and post children's photos from our special photo booth. I send logs home with children on my outreach story time visits to local preschools and day cares. I sometimes visit special events at schools such as open houses. We have posters in our library. Story time librarians talk about the program at story times. As far as participation, we have just over 200 children participating. 29 children have finished (17 of which finished in our first year. We are coming up on 2 years now.) We keep track of each child's progress in a Google Drive Excel file. Signature

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library lending -- vending machines?
by Lise Mitchell 29 Jun '18

29 Jun '18

Hi, Looking for recommendations from other libraries who have implemented a vending machine in an off-site location. Any information or advice is appreciated. thanks, lise -- Lise Mitchell, Director Grand Ledge Area District Library 131 E. Jefferson Street Grand Ledge, MI 48837 gladldirector(a)gmail.com 517-622-3550 direct 517-627-7014 Library 517-627-6276 fax

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Compiled List of Laminating Services Responses
by Jessica Wilhoite 28 Jun '18

28 Jun '18

Here are the responses I got regarding laminating services: ________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ We have a laminator for library use only. We refer people to Staples if they ask. Howell Carnegie District Library We do offer lamination at MSU Libraries. I’ll paste a link to where the information lives on the web, as well as a table containing the information itself. [ https://lib.msu.edu/hollander/servicedesk/ | https://lib.msu.edu/hollander/servicedesk/ ] Lamination Type Size Cost Pouch Wallet Size $0.10 per card Pouch Letter $1.00 per sheet Pouch 11x17 $1.50 per sheet Poster Size Clear 38" wide roll feed of any length $6.00 per linear foot The pouch laminator is a self-serve operation (though our student staff often walk people through how-to steps), whereas the large-format, “Poster” laminator may only be run by staff (I believe that’s full-time staff only, due to the machine’s complexity and potential for damage/injury if used incorrectly). If memory serves, poster-sized jobs usually expect a 24-hour turnaround. If you have any follow-up questions, please don’t hesitate to ask! Jonah Magar | Gaming Coordinator Michigan State University Libraries [ callto:517-884-8479 | 517-884-8479 ] | [ mailto:magarjon@msu.edu | magarjon(a)msu.edu ] [ https://www.lib.msu.edu/gaming | https://www.lib.msu.edu/gaming ] ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________ We have a small lamination machine in the library that can do a basic 8.5 by 11 size sheet of paper. We used to offer this service for free. However high cost and the low quality of our available machinery has caused us to no longer offer this as a service to students. We now refer students to the on campus printing office, which is run semi independently from the University despite being housed in the same building as the library. I do not know their pricing off hand. I can contact them for you but with school being out of session it is unlikely they will respond in relativity quick manner. At my previous library (a Technical College), we charged $0.50 for page for small items 8.5 by 11. Poster size was $1.50. Hope that helps! Saxony Betts Digital Technology/Reference Librarian Email: [ mailto:sbetts@kettering.edu | sbetts(a)kettering.edu ] Phone: [ callto:(810)%20762-7815 | (810) 762-7815 ] 1700 University Avenue ~ Flint, MI 48504 Kettering University ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Unofficially, yes. Letter size is $1 per page. Anne Oyerly Building & Stacks Manager James White Library Andrews University ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________ We have a Scotch thermal laminator and can laminate up to 8.5 x 11 sheets of paper to 8.5 x 11 5-mil cardstock. Anything larger or thicker won't work. We charge $.50 per laminating sheet used (business card up to that full page; if they want to insert multiple items into one sleeve and cut them apart after, not a problem). If they have a large project, we give them the option to leave the items because it takes time both to warm up and send everything through. We do caution them that certain items might suffer discoloration or damage because it is a heat process and the service is provided at the patron's risk (I think we've had one thing damaged in the three years we've offered the service--it got stuck in the machine). T.A. Cutler Memorial Library 312 Michigan Ave. Saint Louis, Michigan 48880 [ callto:(989)%20681-5141 | (989) 681-5141 ] ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Hello! Yes, we offer laminating, and it's $1.00 per page. We've only had a few people take advantage, but it's a nice service to offer. Dawn H. Mulliken District Library [ mailto:mulldistlib@gmail.com | mulldistlib(a)gmail.com ] [ callto:517-649-8611 | 517-649-8611 ] ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Our library has a GBC HeatSeal H210 table top laminator. It can do pocket, letter and legal size laminating. It is unable to do a poster. Our fee is $1.00 per sheet and is not dependent on the size. Angela Pike Sebewaing Township Library _______________________________________________________________________________________________________ Thanks! Jessica Wilhoite Assistant Director/Youth Librarian Romulus Public Library 11121 Wayne Rd. Romulus, MI 48174 (734) 942-7589 Serving Romulus and Huron Township Residents “I see libraries and librarians as front-line soldiers in the war against illiteracy and the lack of imagination.” -Neil Gaiman

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Religion in the Library compiled correctly
by Don Priest 28 Jun '18

28 Jun '18

After the "best practices" guideline sent out to the list today, I realized my previous compiled responses for the discussion a few weeks ago was submitted incorrectly. I put it all in a PDF attachment, not embedded in the message itself. So, I'm sending it again the right way! My apologies for the mistake! Don Priest Southgate Veterans Memorial Library 14680 Dix-Toledo Rd. Southgate, MI 48195 734-258-3002 ext. 3003 We do not allow nativity scenes. We feature Santa and snowmen, holly, greens etc. A bit puzzled about why you would leave up the Pride Month display, but worry about the Nativity? Seems like both reflect cultural values of American society. If you really want to make it appear that you are not supporting one religion over another, I would focus on adding displays from other belief systems, not taking away one. Just my opinion. ______________________________________________________________________ Hello Don, I am at a small private ELCA university in the UP. We put up Christmas decorations in the library every year but I include other religious observances too. For example, we made a large Christmas tree out of butcher block paper and added 'ornaments' that represent Hanukah, Kwanzaa, Crescent and moon for Islam, peace symbols, along with Christian symbols. I try to make it as inclusive as possible. I also do a book display with various holiday books for all ages. I have also had the pushback about LGBTQ+ displays but I tell patrons that our collection and displays reflect the diversity of our community and that we try to provide all of our patrons with reading materials. As far as the Nativity goes... maybe simple signage that tells passerbys who is responsible for it will help to distance the library from the Nativity scene. Maybe contact the group that puts it up and ask for them to take responsibility/credit. Please share the responses you receive with the rest of the listserve, I am sure there are other librarians who would like this kind of feedback too. Enjoy the end of spring! ______________________________________________________________________ Hi Don- I see many librarians discuss removing religious symbolism altogether, even if it is a Christmas Tree because while not inherently religious, it still reflects the Christian Holiday. You seem to be in a spot where you could choose to highlight many world religions so the patron in question would feel more represented or you remove the implied religious decorations altogether and represent no one. It’s a tricky subject to be sure, but my judgement lead me to simply focus on winter decorations around the holidays and not a focus on Christmas . As far as your pride display goes, I think that’s a different set of circumstances altogether. Religions might have a problem with it, but that’s on them, not you. Pride isn’t a religion thing, so there’s no implied discrimination there. Just my rambly two cents. Hello- If you are publically funded, the display of a celebration of one religious holiday over another is a First Amendment concern. You are endorsing Christianity over any other religious system at that point if you are directly sponsoring the display. I am not saying you are wrong to be indirectly doing so, but I am saying that you are legitimately subject to challenges for it. Do you also put out colors for Holi, or celebrate Sukkot with booths, or help with Ramadan meals after sundown publically? --Yes, having a crèche out front during Advent privileges Christianity, and invites challenges… from the whole spectrum of people who disagree… including your Atheist or Fundamentalist patron. So you have to identify your privilege and understand it to be so… libraries are supposed to be by their nature, inclusive spaces for all, tacitly endorsing the majority culture and not endorsing minority cultures is privilege. Because I am a Theology librarian, we could quickly go into the weeds on this subject from some other perspectives as well. If the same patron challenges a rainbow flag, or Pride… that’s his right to do so, but this is a policy challenge on the same lines, but a different idea is at stake. You are not endorsing a school of religious thinking, despite your patorn’s complaints about his own “religious beliefs”, but affirming positive civil rights for people who are you patrons. This is also controversial, but IMHO, the right thing to do. others may not agree. This has parallels with Intellectual freedom inside the library, where we ethically do not interfere in people’s reading/media choices, but we do make collection development decisions based on what the majority of our patrons will read first, then seek to find other viewpoints. This subject gets deep quickly, and is very controversial. One resource I know for this is the ALA Intellectual Freedom IG. There is a good body of constitutional law on this subject as well. (I speak for myself, not for my organization here, with some insights from my position) Hope you find a good solution: ______________________________________________________________________ I have to disagree with Anne. I think there is a major difference between Human Rights and religion. If your religion doesn't believe in equal rights for everyone, that's tough cookies for you. Religious holidays, on the other hand, are tricky. I used to work in retail, and the couple of stores I worked in approached the holidays in very different ways. One had about 20 different religious institutions represented. It was more of an educational display than a holiday display (cool but a ton of work!). The other store I worked in avoided all references to all religions. They did a different color scheme every year and then we did lights, tinsel, and snowflakes. We actually had people complain about both (no one is ever happy in retail), but we just said 1. this is an acknowledgement of all traditions associated with this time of year or 2. This is an acknowledgement that this is a special time to different people in different ways. Personally, the all religions display is a lot of work, but it's something that's pretty fun if you can swing it. The no holidays display is just an easy fall back. I've also seen displays of pine trees that were decorated with different religions (the Meijer Gardens has a great holiday tree display). That's a nice way to have a tree without having it be a purely Christian icon. ______________________________________________________________________ I think it would be a mistake to equate a Pride month display, which speaks to issues of civil rights, with displays of religious observances. A library, as a public institution, has the responsibility to reflect all its users. In as much as we are public, we should also be cognizant of the historical separation of church and state and be wary of aligning ourselves with a specific religious tradition Don, The ALA Intellectual Freedom Committee created an interpretation of the Library Bill of Rights on that topic fairly recently. Here's a link if you haven't seen it. [ http://www.ala.org/advocacy/intfreedom/librarybill/interpretations/religion | http://www.ala.org/advocacy/intfreedom/librarybill/interpretations/religion ] [ http://www.ala.org/advocacy/intfreedom/librarybill/interpretations/religion | Religion in American Libraries | Advocacy, Legislation & Issues ] [ http://www.ala.org/ | www.ala.org ] The First Amendment guarantees the right of individuals to believe and practice their religion or practice no religion at all and prohibits government from establishing or endorsing a religion or religions. Thus the freedom of, for and from religion, are similarly guaranteed. There is also a Q & A on the topic. [ http://www.ala.org/advocacy/intfreedom/religionfaq | http://www.ala.org/advocacy/intfreedom/religionfaq ] From my brief reading of it and memory of the creation, if it's an outside group putting up the display, you need to offer the same opportunity to other groups. If they choose not to take advantage of that opportunity, that's fine, as long as it's available. [ http://www.ala.org/advocacy/intfreedom/religionfaq | Religion in American Libraries: Questions and Answers | Advocacy, Legislation & Issues ] [ http://www.ala.org/ | www.ala.org ] Religion, American Libraries, This Q & A provides guidance to libraries and librarians in protecting First Amendment rights to five freedoms: freedom of the press, speech, petition, assembly and religion. Courts have consistently held that for freedom of the press and speech to be meaningful, people must have the right to receive information: that is, to read, view, hear or access what they choose. In addition, the freedom of (and for) religion has been understood to include both the right of individuals to believe and practice their religion and the right of individuals and the state to be free from religion. Hope that helps! The nativity scene and the tree may very well be illegal, as we still have separation of church and state in this country. For a time, at least. Pride month is not a religious celebration and is completely appropriate. Below is a link to a very informative article on the subject. Yes, it probably leans towards my particular opinion, but it is an excellent discussion. [ https://americanlibrariesmagazine.org/2016/11/01/tis-the-season-holiday-pro… | https://americanlibrariesmagazine.org/2016/11/01/tis-the-season-holiday-pro… ] Don, I suggest getting some advice from your lawyer. Based on the responses you have received so far most people are giving opinions that may or may not be based on fact. In cases like these there is quite a bit of misunderstanding, in particular regarding the separation of church and state. Best to get guidance from a professional to help know how to set policy. These types of battles seem to be getting more common so it would not be a waste of time or money. Of course, that is only my opinion. ______________________________________________________________________ Hi Don, We used to have Christmas themed programs & displays in my old library - but it was a very homogeneous community so no one complained. Thinking back, I would do things differently. If the majority of a community is one religion, that is a great reason for a library to explore and share info about the other religious customs. I wouldn't put up a nativity without also having equal space and prominence for a Judaic display, along with one for Kwanzaa, Islam, Hindu, Buddhim, Gaia, etc. Best to stop all religious displays or have one the celebrates the diversity of beliefs around the world. Keep the separation of Church and State clear. An LGBTQIA exhibit/display is more of a civil liberty/freedom issue. We libraries have always tried to educate people about and support civil liberties. If his religion is opposed to homosexuality, that is his business and he need not check out those materials; but he is not allowed to infringe on the rights of others to exist or to be represented in the community. There are those who used to feel similarly about African Americans, and other groups. I had a complaint this year that we were "overdoing" our Black history displays (and our community is 77% AA)! I agree with Phillip and Kate. We wouldn't hesitate to celebrate Black History month, or Women's history month and I believe that Gay pride fits in this category as opposed to religious observances. You might argue a Christmas tree isn't religious but they only come out at Christmas time and you'll rarely see them in a University Library (at least in my humble experience). If Nativities were to suddenly disappear, would references to Ramadan and Passover also disappear? What about the increasingly popular Color Runs, which are an appropriation of the Hindu festival of Holi? It seems to me that by removing any references to religious festivals such as these, we are missing an opportunity to become more informed about others who may not be "like us". We do not need to prioritize one religion over another, that's a personal choice, and not what librarians are about. Also, all religions are protected by law in this country. But we can help provide information, and hopefully help as many as possible to feel included, not excluded. Just as we try to do with Black History Month, Gay Pride, etc. Again, just my opinion. ______________________________________________________________________ You know, personally I would just steer clear of pointing out in display, program or otherwise religions or religious holidays. Purchasing library materials—books and media—is certainly a way of providing the information about such to one’s patron’s. Don, I’m sure you directed your patron to whomever is involved in the Nativity display. There are many municipalities around Michigan who still display one during the Christmas holiday. Freedom of speech and expression is the rule, but imo libraries have many, many more neutral options when it comes to promotions. Just my 2 cents ;-) Don, you’ve clearly asked a great question. A lot of interesting discussion happening on this. I will join with those whose comments have stemmed from a patron-based approach. That has never failed to lead me well, whereas the more intellectual/philosophical approach has. Frequently. Certainly we are, as librarians, concerned with ethical discussions and exploration of philosophical issues; however, it is important to remember that we are here, most basically, to simply be people serving other people. Distinctions between religion and culture are murky, at best. I would posit that for anyone who is deeply religious, the two are all but inseparable. This is true for any religion. I would ask these questions: What reflects your community? Is the Nativity important to some members of your community? Is the Pride Month display a source of encouragement or acceptance for even one of your patrons? If you don’t know the answer, find out. If the answer is no, get rid of them. If the answer is yes, keep them. Then add a few more questions to your arsenal: ask the man who complains whether he believes his neighbors should be compelled to believe as he does. I’ve asked patrons this, and once they understand the library is here for everyone, it generally takes care of the complaint very well. Ask him what is most important to him, and how the library can positively affirm those values. We are here to celebrate and build up our communities, we are not here to engage in cultural censorship. We don’t get to decide what is worth celebrating and what is not: that is for our patrons to guide us. My two cents, with maybe just a little change alongside. J Have you asked this patron to be involved by suggesting displays, programs, books to add to the collection? Many of our more needy patrons just want to be heard. I believe it is all in how you present it to him. He is wanting to impose his beliefs as well, by rejecting someone else's. I would ensure that your displays meet as many of the area as possible for sex, religion, race, age, etc.which I am sure is written somewhere in your policies. Respectful, diverse education of our communities in my mind, is part of our job and one that I do not take lightly. I am fortunate enough to be at a college campus where my monthly displays have not been challenged. I have a display for Christmas , Kwanzaa, and Hanukkah. I currently have a Pride month display. I had a Chinese New Year, and point out all the countries that celebrate it besides China, etc, etc. Good luck to you. ______________________________________________________________________ Many years ago as a Director in another state my library board unexpectedly banned Christmas at their November meeting. Really. Decorations were limited to greenery (no Christmas trees), poinsettias and red ribbons and no holiday specific programs. It did not sit well with our community or our staff. I even ended up on local talk radio. This community had a good sized Muslim/Somalian refugee community, which was a big part of what spurred the board member who initiated it. If your board is thinking of doing something like this it might work better if they at least post the agenda item ahead of time. It turned out to be very bad PR. That's unfortunate that you received a complaint! I would certainly leave the pride display up because it's a civil and social issue. Personally, the nativity scene is fine. Just like others have said, as long as you're (potentially) open to other groups putting their paraphernalia up. I see what others are saying about separation of church and state, that seems to make it a bigger issue. In reality, a bunch of people (no statistics here) celebrate Christmas each year, but wouldn't consider themselves "religious" or a part of a religion. Just like people who celebrate Halloween aren't actually celebrating witchcraft (again, majority of people). It's ultimately up to your discretion what you do, but since the library is a public space, if the person finds offense, he can go elsewhere, or if he has something he wants represented, then perhaps you can work together. It probably also depends on your city. For instance, with Flat Rock, the Beautification Committee goes all out with Christmas decorations during the holidays. I grew up in a Jewish/Christian home in NYC, so I notice the lack of other religious representations, but it certainly represents the community of Flat Rock itself (which has multiple churches within blocks of each other). I hope this helps somewhat. And that whatever you decide, it's a peaceful resolution! ______________________________________________________________________ My thoughts exactly, Connie! If I (and my board) were to ban Christmas at the library in this small, very religious town, it would be an enormous black-mark against the library! We do not push the religious aspect of Christmas, but we put up a tree, decorate the railing, have snowflakes falling from the ceiling, and there is a Christmas Open House. We have had different themes over the years, sometimes with Santa, once with a nationally known children's author who lives nearby. She read her Christmas books to the children through the evening. Naturally, there are crafts for the kids; reindeer antlers, gingerbread men, etc. It was wonderful and we got lots of positive feedback and new people signing up for cards. ______________________________________________________________________ Not an expert here, but I am going to suggest that there is an important difference between a cultural display (Pride Month) and a religious display (nativity). Religious displays run the risk of violating separation of church and state as required by the First Amendment to the US Constitution, while cultural displays do not. ALA's website ( [ http://www.ala.org/advocacy/intfreedom/librarybill/interpretations/religion | http://www.ala.org/advocacy/intfreedom/librarybill/interpretations/religion ] ) seems concerned only with the availability of religious materials in the library's collection, but not with religious displays on library property. But maybe a closer reading would reveal more. This site gives arguments on both sides: [ https://aclu.procon.org/view.answers.php?questionID=000691. | https://aclu.procon.org/view.answers.php?questionID=000691. ] The debate centers on whether or not a religious display on public property amounts to favoring one religion over another, which would violate the Constitution. Not sure if this helped or not, but now you have more to think about! Hi Don, I saw your discussion on Michlib and thought I'd add my two cents. I think it's best to be neutral in these matters, but we sometimes think of neutrality in the wrong way. A lot of people believe that a complete ban on religious displays is the most neutral response. I disagree. I think that banning religious displays gives (tacit) support to atheism. Why? Because it projects an atheist environment. If the state "religion" was atheism, we'd see no religious displays. If you ban religious displays, you get the same result. Like all religions, atheism makes metaphysical truth claims. Supporting it above all others, even tacitly, is not neutral. I think the most inclusive response is to allow members in the community to create displays that reflect their own belief systems (including atheism). If people ask, "Why don't you have a display for such-and-such religion," invite them to make one. If they say they don't have the time or inclination, give them your card and tell them the door is always open. Furthermore, you could post a small sign near every display that says something along the lines of, "Want your own display? Call (XXX) XXX-XXXX to make it happen". Finally, if you're worried about display-overload, create a policy that limits how long a display can be up and create a system for reserving spots. In the end, you'll still get complaints, but honestly, you'll get complaints no matter what way you go. I think the most important thing is to strive to be fair, and I think this is the way to do it. I hope you've found some benefit to my thoughts! If you want to include this (or not) in your response to everyone, I'm totally fine with it. Have a great weekend!

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Michlib-l best practices guidelines
by Norris, Sonya (MDE) 28 Jun '18

28 Jun '18

Greetings Michigan Library Community, This is a best practices update for posting to Michlib-l. We welcome your participation on Michlib-l. There are a few guidelines that help improve the experience for everyone: 1. If you ask for group input on a topic, offer to collect the responses and then re-post them to the list so everyone can benefit. Be sure to embed those responses in the body of your message. 2. Please keep in mind when composing your messages that attachments are removed from posts for digest subscribers and in the archives. For maximum reach, embed the text you wish readers to see in the body of your message. If an attachment is especially important for its images, formatting or other reasons, upload it to your website and then link to it in your message to Michlib-l. 3. Do not post replies that are meant for one person to the entire list. You can accomplish this by using the "Reply" feature and not "Reply All." And, of course, a little patience goes a long way. We've all accidentally posted something to a list that was only meant for one person so gentleness with each other is helpful as well. Have a fabulous day in Library Land, Sonya Sonya Schryer Norris Library Consultant Library of Michigan 702 W. Kalamazoo St. Lansing, MI 48909 517-373-4457 https://michigan.gov/libraryofmichigan http://mel.org<http://mel.org/> http://michlibrary.org<http://michlibrary.org/> Our collective efforts can help make Michigan a Top 10 education state in 10 years! Here are the goals and strategies: http://mi.gov/top10in10/ [cid:image002.png@01D20444.B08921B0]

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MeL Minute: Libraries Rock with MeL
by Norris, Sonya (MDE) 28 Jun '18

28 Jun '18

Greetings Michigan Library Community, Summer is here and Michigan Libraries Rock! To help support the Collaborative Summer Library Program (CSLP) and your summer reading program, be sure to check out the Michigan eLibrary (http://www.mel.org/) Here are a few suggestions: * NoveList K8+<http://galesupport.com/migeoipcheck/migeoipcheck-ebsco.php?database=NOVEL>: Search "Libraries Rock" and click on the Lists and Articles tab for multiple reading lists related to this year's Libraries Rock theme. * BookFLIX<http://galesupport.com/migeoipcheck/migeoipcheck-scholastic.php>: There is a Music and Rhyme theme book that contains 25 pairs of fiction/nonfiction books in this database. Don't miss out on the great fiction and nonfiction book pairs for some of Michigan's youngest readers! * Britannica School<http://www.galesupport.com/migeoipcheck/migeoipcheck-brit.php?database=BRHI…>: Researchers of all ages can check out this database to learn about musician biographies and the history of music. Use "Explore Biographies" and look in "Known For" to find Arts, Visual (dance), Entertainment (instrumentalists; musical composers; radio; singing), and Technology (instrument making). You may also conduct a general search for "music" to find articles on different types of music, plus take a look at the tabs on the left of the search for images, videos, and even magazine articles related to music. * Early World of Learning<https://worldbookonline.com/ewol/home?subacct=O6106>: Give the frog a kiss and change him into a prince by clicking on "Classics" from the main page in this database. Once you are in this fairytale land, you can access classic children's songs such as The Alphabet Song, Eensy Weensy Spider, This Old Man, and Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star. * eBooks<http://galesupport.com/migeoipcheck/migeoipcheck-ebsco.php?database=EBOOK>: A general search for "music" in the main eBooks collection yields over 5,000 books to browse throughout the summer for both kids and adults. * Gale Virtual Reference Library<http://www.galesupport.com/migeoipcheck/migeoipcheck-gale.php?database=GVRL>: You'll definitely want to check out the title Bowling, Beatniks, and Bell-Bottoms : Pop Culture of 20th- and 21st-Century America for music history by decade. Also available is the St. James Encyclopedia of Popular Culture reference book that details the different types of music such as folk, soul, and pop. Finally, Computer Sciences highlights how computers have impacted all aspects of the music industry. * Opposing Viewpoints in Context<http://www.galesupport.com/migeoipcheck/migeoipcheck-gale.php?database=OVIC>: Maybe adults would like to look into some controversial issues related to music. This database contains topic pages on Censoring Music Lyrics, Online Music Trading, and Rap (Music). But did you know....you can conduct a general search for music, then scroll down the page to the Topic Finder located on the bottom right. Using the Topic Finder, you will see many related topics such as Music Industry, Music Awards, and Classical Music, and each of these subtopics will yield related articles. And of course, don't forget to check MeLCat<http://mel.org> for books and material related to music. Maybe you can even find books on how to make your own homemade musical instrument! Brought to you by the MeL Team. MeL databases are available to Michigan residents or Michigan library access only. Want more information on MeL? Stay tuned for the next MeL Minute available on many Michigan library listservs, email us at contact(a)mel.org<mailto:contact@mel.org>, visit http://mel.org<http://mel.org/>, or sign up for the MeL Minute and other Library of Michigan e-mail lists via GovDelivery<https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/MILOM/subscriber/new>. We encourage you to share MeL Minutes with your colleagues and networks. #IMLSGrant Sonya Schryer Norris Library Consultant Library of Michigan 702 W. Kalamazoo St. Lansing, MI 48909 517-373-4457 https://michigan.gov/libraryofmichigan http://mel.org<http://mel.org/> http://michlibrary.org<http://michlibrary.org/> Our collective efforts can help make Michigan a Top 10 education state in 10 years! Here are the goals and strategies: http://mi.gov/top10in10/ [cid:image002.png@01D20444.B08921B0]

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Opioids in Communities: Libraries in Response, an OHIO workshop
by Lancaster, Cathy (MDE) 28 Jun '18

28 Jun '18

Please excuse any cross-posting. A colleague in Ohio asked that I share this workshop series out, in light of Michigan's coverage of the opioid crisis<http://michiganradio.org/post/libraries-find-themselves-front-lines-michiga…>. Libraries play a central role in the health and well-being of the communities they serve. But, as we consider how to respond to the challenges we see, remember that we don't have to go it alone. During the "Resources in Your Backyard" session, attendees at any of the upcoming Opioids in Communities, Libraries in Response<https://www.ohionet.org/librariesinresponse> events will have the chance to hear from local representatives of Project DAWN<https://www.odh.ohio.gov/health/vipp/drug/ProjectDAWN.aspx>, a community-based overdose education and naloxone distribution program. Staff from Project DAWN will share information about local and regional resources as well as how to spot the signs of an opioid overdose. For additional information, and to register ($45), click here: https://www.ohionet.org/librariesinresponse. Follow the events on Facebook and Twitter via #LibrariesRespond. These programs are made possible thanks to an LSTA grant from the federal Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), awarded by the State Library of Ohio. Cathy Lancaster Youth Services Coordinator Library of Michigan 702 W. Kalamazoo St. Lansing, MI 48915 LancasterC5(a)michigan.gov<mailto:LancasterC5@michigan.gov> | 517-335-8129 | www.mi.gov/libraryofmichigan<http://www.mi.gov/libraryofmichigan> Follow us: Facebook<https://www.facebook.com/libraryofmichigan/> | Twitter<https://twitter.com/libraryofmich> | Instagram<https://www.instagram.com/libraryofmichigan/>

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Pew Research Center Presentation: Skill Requirements For Future Jobs: 10 Facts
by Jim Flury 28 Jun '18

28 Jun '18

Good Morning, Below is a link to a June 19, 2018 Pew Research Center presentation titled Skill Requirements For Future Jobs: 10 Facts. How will you position YOUR LIBRARY to be in the forefront when it comes to the skills and training patrons will need for these future jobs??!! http://www.pewinternet.org/2018/06/19/skill-requirements-for-future-jobs-10… Jim Jim Flury Technical Services Manager The Library Network 41365 Vincenti Court Novi, MI 48375 248-536-3100 x133 Fax 248-536-3098 jflury(a)tln.lib.mi.us

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ILS Administrator position re-opened-Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County (OH)
by Jobeth Bradbury 28 Jun '18

28 Jun '18

Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County (OH) - ILS Administrator Search Re-opened with New Salary Range! The Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County<https://www.libraryvisit.org/> (OH) seeks an experienced ILS Administrator to manage operation of the systemwide Integrated Library System (ILS) as well as applications related to data collection and analysis. PLYMC is a county-wide system serving 238,823 residents, governed by a 15-member Board, supported by a stellar staff of 169 FTE and a $15,540,797.84 annual operating budget. The ILS Administrator holds the primary responsibility of the day-to-day monitoring, maintenance and ongoing development of the Library's ILS platform, Sierra, and serves as the point of contact for data analytics products such as Innovative's Decision Center and OrangeBoy's Savannah. This includes supporting staff system wide to ensure accuracy, reliability and usability of the ILS and collaborating with other departments throughout the system to identify and coordinate resolution of issues in support of library services. The ILS Administrator works under the direction of the Technology Director but may be consulted directly by staff to advise and resolve difficult or unusual problems. For additional information on the Library and Mahoning County, see PLYMC Links<http://www.bradburymiller.com/PLYMCLinks2017.htm>. Responsibilities. Key responsibilities include (1) Managing the operation and maintaining the function of the ILS and associate software, services, equipment, processes, and vendors; (2) collaborating with departments throughout the system to ensure accuracy, reliability, and usability of the ILS; (3) proactively identifying and resolving problems of server application issues in support of library services; (4) maintaining contracts, ensuring software updates, coordinating planned maintenance, and arranging support calls for ILS-related systems; (5) generating statistical data and reports to provide timely data and analysis to appropriate decision maker; and (6) providing excellent and timely internal customer service responding to employee questions, concerns, and help requests. Please visit ILS Administrator<http://www.bradburymiller.com/ILSadmindesc.pdf> for the complete position description. Qualifications. Minimum qualifications include: (1) three years of experience in ILS administration, database administration, or administration of other business systems; (2) knowledge of and experience with ILS applications, SQL, Microsoft Windows and Microsoft Office application suite with an emphasis on Excel; (3) knowledge of principles and practices of public library operations, issues, and trends including circulation standard practices and procedures and other technology resources pertinent to library operations; (4) strong analytical and troubleshooting skills with the capacity to understand and interpret data; or (5) the equivalent combination of education and experience to perform the work required. A Bachelor's degree in library science, computer science or related field required; a Master's degree in library and information science, computer science or related field is strongly preferred. Experience with ILS systems preferred and experience with Sierra ILS strongly preferred. Compensation. The salary range is $50,00 - $70,000 (negotiable with experience) with an excellent fringe benefit package which includes pension plan with the Ohio Public Employees Retirement System (OPERS). For further information, contact Bradbury Miller Associates<http://www.bradburymiller.com/contactus.html>. Apply via email with a meaningful cover letter and your resume as Word or pdf attachments to Karen Miller<mailto:karenmiller@bradburymiller.com>. This position closes July 29, 2018. Jobeth Bradbury Bradbury Miller Associates<http://www.gossagesager.com/> 4545 Wornall Rd, Ste. 805 Kansas City, MO 64111 816-803-7087 (cell); 816-531-2468 (office) Sign up for our newsletter<http://visitor.r20.constantcontact.com/d.jsp?llr=myy6mkoab&p=oi&m=111489311…> to get the latest updates!

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