January 2019 - Michlib-l

Interior Drop Box Bin Available!
by Barbara Beaton 11 Jan '19

11 Jan '19

We have a solid oak bin receptacle for incoming drop box items for which we no longer have a use. The measurements are: 22" deep x 30" wide x 30" tall. Pictures are attached. Free to good home, but you must pick it up! Barbara Beaton Assistant Director/Reference Librarian Milan Public Library Milan, MI 48160 734-439-1240 www.milanlibrary.org<http://www.milanlibrary.org>

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MeL Minute: Check, and Then Check Again… Evaluating Sources
by Norris, Sonya (MDE) 11 Jan '19

11 Jan '19

[A close up of text on a white background Description automatically generated]It is powerful to have free access to publications from all over the world. Imagine keeping track of every new article, in every magazine or newspaper, published every day. This would be a daunting task for anyone because of the thousands upon thousands of new pieces of content fed into MeL daily. Guiding our patrons to ask questions and teaching them how to check articles, websites, and authors is essential. Even with MeL’s robust offering of reliable resources, evaluating content remains important. Recently we received a patron question about Poetry & Short Story Reference Center. This person searched for the poem "I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings" and received a mix of results. The searcher was only interested in the poem by Maya Angelou and there was only one search result that included the poem. At first glance, it appeared to be a full reprint of the poem. Upon closer inspection, it turns out the poem was missing some words and punctuation. It was also re-printed as a side bar in an article about caged birds. The full article appeared in the Australian publication Animals Today. While most of the poem was intact, Animals Today is not an authoritative poetry source and not reliable for this patron’s needs. Using search limiters also achieves better results and is something patrons often overlook. Without limiters, results can include content that doesn’t even come close to what patrons may need. Selecting peer reviewed content or reference books as limiters is a great way to increase the authority of results. Had the “Caged Bird” searcher utilized these limiters, the results would have been different. MeL.org offers access to some great tools to help patrons learn about reliable sources. Start by accessing quick-reference handouts in our Downloadable Promotional Materials<https://mel.org/library-staff/marketing-resources/downloadablepromos> area. You will find the “Accessing Trustworthy Resources” flyer with useful questions to help patrons evaluate information resources. What is the date of the article? Is it unbiased? Who is the intended audience? Is the article from an authoritative publication? MeL is a powerful tool for searching. For those of us who guide others through the steps of electronic research, we must be mindful to not only check and double check these robust resources, we must also teach them to be mindful as well. Brought to you by Ann Kaskinen and Liz Breed of the MeL Team. Supporting Michigan Libraries by Putting You First. Want more information on MeL? Stay tuned for the next MeL Minute available on many Michigan library listservs, 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. MeL databases are available to Michigan residents or for Michigan library or school access only. #IMLSGrant Sonya Schryer Norris Library Consultant Library of Michigan 702 W. Kalamazoo St. Lansing, MI 48909 517-335-1498 MY NUMBER HAS CHANGED TO 517-335-1498 https://michigan.gov/libraryofmichigan http://mel.org<http://mel.org/> http://michlibrary.org<http://michlibrary.org/>

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Program Suggestion
by Kate Brown 10 Jan '19

10 Jan '19

Hello, Last month we hosted Joe Grimm, author of The Faygo Book. He discussed the history of Faygo and the development of various flavors. Pop was sampled. We had a great turn out and the audience enjoyed the program very much. At one point Joe had everyone singing "Remember when you were a kid," the song from a 1970's Faygo ad. Joe would be happy to speak at other libraries. His email address is joe.grimm(a)gmail.com Kate Brown Clinton-Macomb Public Library

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New marijuana laws and drug free workplace
by Margaret Bentley 10 Jan '19

10 Jan '19

There was an article on the front page of the* Lansing State Journal* last week regarding issues with the legalization of marijuana in Michigan and possible conflicts with drug-free workplace policies, especially if an employee has a medical marijuana card or a patron bringing in or using marijuana. Have any libraries addressed these issues yet? If so, would you be willing to share with the list how you plan to handle this? I am willing to compile responses. Margaret Bentley Adult Services Librarian Shiawassee District Library--Owosso 502 W. Main Street Owosso, Michigan 48867 989-725-5134

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Seeking Star Wars Cosplayer(s)
by Erin Schmandt 10 Jan '19

10 Jan '19

We are seeking a Star Wars Cosplayer for something we are working on for summer reading. Any recommendations or sources? Erin Schmändt Director Caro Area District Library 840 W. Frank Street Caro, MI 48723 (989) 673-4329 ext. 102 FAX (989) 673-4777 [Signature SizeCaro-Area-District-Library-Logo]

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free bags
by Loretta Sherfield 10 Jan '19

10 Jan '19

Hi: Green tote full of bubble bags for the first responder! Here we go................. -- Loretta Sherfield Branch District Library Interlibrary Loan Department

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Craft Group Supplies and Suggestions
by Melissa Adkins 10 Jan '19

10 Jan '19

Hello Everybody, Romulus is looking to start up a knitting/crochet/craft group in the spring, and while I expect patrons to bring their own projects, I want to be able to encourage newcomers to attend by providing a few supplies so they can learn. If you have such a group and have any extra yarn, knitting needles, crochet hooks, etc., that you would be willing to send our way, it would be greatly appreciated. I'm also interested in any tips you might have for starting a craft group, particularly if you've had success maintaining one for awhile. Thanks! -- Melissa Adkins Adult Services Librarian Romulus Public Library 11121 Wayne Road Romulus, MI 48174 (734) 955- 4518 Serving Romulus and Huron Township Residents "You want weapons? We're in a library. Books are the best weapon in the world. This room's the greatest arsenal we could have. Arm yourself!" - The Doctor

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Michigan Uniform Chart of Accounts
by Kat Boyer 10 Jan '19

10 Jan '19

Hello all, I was wondering if any of you have experience with implementing the new Uniform Chart of Accounts. We ran into some issues dealing with that with our last audit. Thanks, Kat Boyer Director Benton Harbor Public Library 213 E Wall St. Benton Harbor, MI 49022

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Book Recommendations from MLA Adult Readers' Advisory Group
by Brian Johnston 09 Jan '19

09 Jan '19

Self-Published: Ballpoint Penitentiary by Brandon Diehl Diehl is widely published in literary journals online, and Ballpoint Penitentiary is his second collection of poetry. The publisher is Philosophical Idiot, which is an online literary journal and publisher of books run by Diehl and his partner Kat Giordano, who also released a collection of poetry through Philosophical Idiot. Ballpoint Penitentiary is a collection of confessional, funny, and self-deprecating poems, which is typical (in tone) of the online small press, but Diehl has a skill with words unlike most online poets. The Poet Confronts Bukowski's Ghost by Kat Giordano The Poet Confronts Bukowski's Ghost is the second collection of poetry published by Philosophical Idiot, Diehl and Giordano's online journal and small press. This is Giordano's debut collection of poetry, but she is widely published online and in print literary journals. This collection has some of the similar themes of contemporary confessional poetry, but the basis for this book is that Giordano is taking to task the legacy of notorious poet Charles Bukowski, and other drunk, womanizing writers and "bro-ets" that have emerged in his wake. This is smart, sharp poetry with a timely message. Motor City is Burning and Other Rock & Roll Poems by Mark James Andrews A former factory worker and jail librarian, Andrews is a staple of the Metroit Detroit small press and poetry scene, and Motor City is Burning is his latest collection of rock and roll infused poetry, released in time for the 50th anniversary of the MC5's Kick Out the Jams. Each poem in this book is inspired by and a dedicated to a different song, and while not all of the songs referenced in the book are by Detroit musicians, the stories that take place within the poems mostly take place within Detroit during the 1960s and 70s. This is quality poetry, made in Michigan. Fiction: An American Marriage by Tayari Jones A haunting and moving story centered upon a wrongful conviction that wreaks havoc on two Southern newlyweds, Roy and Celestial. Roy, a young professional in Atlanta, is sentenced to a 12-year prisoner sentence for a crime he didn't commit, during which, both he and his wife struggle to cope with their extraordinary circumstances. Celestial becomes an entrepreneur during this time, and develops a closer relationship with her childhood friend, Andre. When Roy's conviction is overturned after five years, he returns to Atlanta ready to pick up where he left off, but putting the pieces back together is more difficult than any of them anticipated. Cherry by Nico Walker Cherry is being described as the "first great novel of the opioid edpidemic," but the focus on the novel isn't on opioids. It's about a college student who enjoys partying more than his classes, joins the military, serves in Iraq, becomes addicted to heroin, and starts robbing banks. The novel reads like transgressive fiction like Trainspotting and Requiem for a Dream and other "drug" books of the past. The story is familiar, and you know the characters are doomed from the start, but the writing itself is strong enough to keep you reading. This is a gritty, profane, and cinematic book. When the Men Were Gone by Majorie Herrera Lewis Based on a true story. During WWII, a high school teacher and administrator in Texas becomes the first female football coach in Texas. Outstanding!!! Year One by Nora Roberts A real departure for Roberts; this story is told about the end of the world bascially, but in an innovative way. Book one of 3 planned. Nonfiction: Call Me American: A Memoir by Abdi Nor Iftin The story of Abdi, who grew up in war-torn Somalia, and his journey to becoming an American citizen. As a child, he was fascinated by American culture and learned to speak English while watching movies and listening to pop music, despite the danger these posed after the Islamic group al-Shabaab rose to power. Through a gigantic stroke of luck, he won a shot at US citizenry through an annual visa lottery, and after much struggle and effort, eventually found his path to citizenship and now resides in Maine. Sad Laughter by Brian Alan Ellis Brian Alan Ellis is a prolific writer and social media personality with mutliple collections of short stories, works of poetry, and novellas under his belt. He has a sharp, self-deprecating style, and is often critical of the small press and online writing community, even if he is a frequent contributing member of said community, and Sad Laughter is his "demotivational" guide to writing, publishing, and surviving in the age of social media. Much of the writing in this collection takes the form of humorous tweets and facebook status updates, but this book isn't a novelty. Sad Laughter contains real heart and wisdom, and if you're in any way interested or involved in creative writing in the digital age, this book should be of interest. Betty Ford: First Lady, Women's Advocate, Survivor, Trailblazer by Lisa McCubbin An insightful biography of Betty Ford, detailing her childhood growing up in Grand Rapids, marriage to Gerald Ford, path to the White House, and struggles with addiction to prescription pills and alcohol - leading to the opening of the Betty Ford Center. Betty is portrayed honestly, as told by family, friends, and colleagues closest to her. Becoming by Michelle Obama Michelle Obama's biography. Easy to read and full of information about Michelle's life journey so far. There is so much we don't know about Mrs. Obama and the places she has worked to make a difference. Loved this book! The audio version is read by Mrs. Obama her self, which is wonderful. Brian R. Johnston Head of Public Services Lincoln Township Public Library 2099 W. John Beers Road Stevensville, MI 49127 (269) 429-9575 bjohnston(a)lincolnlib.org

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Announcing the 2019 lineup of History Skills Workshops from the Historical Society of Michigan
by Historical Society of Michigan 09 Jan '19

09 Jan '19

Announcing the 2019 lineup of History Skills Workshops from the Historical Society of Michigan These training opportunities help historical organizations and interested history advocates gain skills that can be applied in museums, organizations, and personal collections. <http://www.hsmichigan.org/programs/workshops/> Learn more and register on our website. See our 2019 lineup of workshops below! . January 25 - Preparing for the Worst: Disaster Planning for Historical Organizations . February 15 - Telling the Tale: Jump-Starting Your Historical Writing Project . March 8 - Archives 101 . March 29 - Taming the Chaos: Collections Management for Small Museums . April 12 - Putting the "Fun" in Fund-Raising . May 3 - Making the List: Nominating a Building to the State and/or National Register of Historic Places . May 17 - Oral History 201 . June 7 - Acting 101: Playing Your Part . June 21 - The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly: Portraying the Challenging Side of History . July 12 - Keeping It Organized: Collections Registration and Cataloging . July 26 - Archives 201 . August 16 - Start 'Em Early: Engaging Young Historians . September 6 - If These Walls Could Talk: Researching Your Historic House . September 20 - Museum Newbies--How Do I . . . ? . October 11 - Keeping Cemeteries Alive! Preserving Headstones and Monuments . October 25 - Putting It in Print: Publishing Your History Book . November 8 - Fading Photos II: Digitizing Your Visual Collections . November 22 - Renovation SOS: Respectful Rehabilitation of Your Old House . December 6 - Getting Seen and Being Heard: Marketing for Small Historical Organizations <http://www.hsmichigan.org/programs/workshops/> Visit our website for full descriptions of each workshop. _____ _____ The Historical Society of Michigan is our state's oldest cultural organization, founded in 1828 by territorial governor Lewis Cass and explorer Henry Schoolcraft. A nongovernmental nonprofit, the Society focuses on publications, conferences, education, awards and recognition programming, and support for local history organizations to preserve and promote Michigan's rich history. _____ For more information on the Historical Society of Michigan, please visit <http://www.hsmichigan.org/> www.hsmichigan.org or e-mail us at <mailto:hsm@hsmichigan.org> hsm(a)hsmichigan.org. _____ The Historical Society of Michigan 5815 Executive Dr. . Lansing, MI 48911 Phone: (517) 324-1828 . FAX: (517) 324-4370 19 on-site workshops for 2019! It's our biggest workshop schedule ever! Participants can "attend" remotely, if they prefer, through Zoom Video Communications and can interact with the speaker and other attendees.* <http://www.hsmichigan.org/programs/workshops/> Learn more and register on our website. . Workshops are held from 9 a.m. to noon at the Meijer Education Center at the Historical Society of Michigan, 5815 Executive Dr., Lansing, Michigan. . If you are a personal member of HSM or represent an organization that itself is a member of the Society, registration is $39. . Registration for non-members is $79 and includes a one-year HSM Household membership. . For in-person attendees, refreshments will be available. Lunch is on your own. . Materials are included with your registration. Any handouts from the presenter will be sent to remote attendees after the workshop. *For full interaction, microphone and webcam are required on your device. <http://www.hsmichigan.org/programs/workshops/> Visit our website for full descriptions of each workshop. This e-mail is sent to our members and friends to keep you updated on historical activities and opportunities to learn more about our state's history. To opt-out, please respond to this e-mail with "remove" in the subject line. If you received this e-mail as part of your participation in the Michlib-l mailing list (listserv), please follow their removal process.

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