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From owner-pubyac@nysernet.org Wed Feb 18 19:00:54 1998
From: Edmonds Library Reference Dept <edmref@sno-isle.org>
Subject: thanks: children's lib'n at adult reference desk
I just wanted to say "Thank You" to all the supportive people who
replied to my post about relocating children's services to the adult
reference desk. Although the actual distance of the move is only about
six feet, it does represent the loss of a special service point that
children can think of as "theirs". Oh, well.
Most of the respondents suggested that I be sure that the new desk is
low enough to be sure that children can see over it without straining.
They also emphasized the importance of child-friendly attitudes on the
part of all public service staff. Specific suggestions included putting
a fishbowl on the desk, wearing funny costume items, and announcing the
transition with signs carefully worded to make clear our continuing
commitment to children's services. Again, I'm most grateful for your
support.
Jonathan Betz-Zall, Children's Librarian, Edmonds Library, Wash.
edmref@sno-isle.org
---------------------
From owner-pubyac@nysernet.org Wed Feb 18 19:01:07 1998
From: Enid Costley <ecostley@arrowhead.lib.mn.us>
ubject: Re: sign language interpreter
I would like to add to the comments of M. Carlisle regarding providing a
sign language interpreter for story time. A qualified sign language
interpreter is needed at library programs if one is requested. I talked to
our Center for Independent Living and our area Interpreter Referral
Services about ADA and interpreter for library programs.
First an "invitation" or announcement that services will be provided
are
required. The invitation or announcement needs to be provided in a form
that is understood by a person with hearing problems. A news release is
fine a radio announcement is not. The wording we use is "A sign language
interpreter will be provided if one is requested two weeks in advance." We
are some what remote location and there are not many sign language
interpreter in our area, so the Interpreter Referral Services requests a
two week advance notice. If two weeks notice is not given we do the best
we can in trying to get a sign language interpreter for the program.
The Interpreter Referral Service tries to provide names of Sign Language
Interpreter who fit the level and needs of the situation. For example a
person interpreting for preschool program, may not interpreter well in a
meeting with a lawyer or doctor and visa versa. Often the Sign Language
Interpreter will request a copy of the story in advance. I would suggest
talking to the Interpreter Services for tips on using a Sign Language
Interpreter. One of the tips is to look and talk to the person who is
hearing impaired not the sign language interpreter.
The average cost of the Sign Language Interpreter in our area is about
$45.00 per hour, but it is negotiable, some will give breaks for several
assignments vs a one time assignment. Travel is sometimes included in the
time/cost.
If a library has one person who uses a sign language interpreter it
certainly is appropriate to insist the person contact the library if they
will be attending the program and/or call if they will not be attend. This
will allow the library to arrange or cancell the services of the sign
language interpreter.
In small towns it is sometime more important that the services are
provided. For people talk...Their kids all go to the same school and most
of all this child's problem is not going to disappear. It is important for
the child to learn how to interact with child his or her age and to feel
welcome in the hearing and the hearing impaired world. It is also
important for others to learn how to work with him or her.
I suggest that you do not try to get around this. But this is not a
discussion to make on your own. Your library board and/or city board has a
vestige interest in this. It is a matter of law.
Stories that work well with hearing impaired children are the same that
work well with most preschool children. Cumulative stories, in which the
same words are used more them once. Like folktale; the three billy goats
gruff, three bears, keys to the kingdom, gingerbread man or the stinky
cheese man, or The favorites in our area... If you give a mouse a cookie,
If you give a moose a muffin and the new one If you give a pig a pancake.
High visual stories like It looked like spilt milk, work well. Finger
plays are easy to used in a mixed hearing and hard of hearing group...have
the kids learn the finger play in sign language. This is where the right
sign language interpreter would be very important.
Yet everything seems to comeback to funding. Play chicken with you funding
source. I think the library will win. Or look for soft money Or take it
out of current funds. It depend in part on if the library board is
supportive, support in your community, possible bad press, and possible law
suite.
Enid Costley
Hibbing Public Library
ecostley@arrowhead.lib.mn.us
---------------------
From owner-pubyac@nysernet.org Wed Feb 18 19:01:09 1998
From: Jacquelyn Axness <jacq@vanlib.fvrl.org>
Subject: library/trade binding
I don't know if this topic has been discussed before but here goes..
What is the general consensus of trade versus library binding? Is it
worth the extra dollars and little or no discount to purchase library
binding? Does your library have a policy regarding the binding.
Thanks for your input I will post a general comment in a couple of weeks.
---------------------
From owner-pubyac@nysernet.org Wed Feb 18 18:59:38 1998
From: Sue Becker <beckersu@oplin.lib.oh.us>
Subject: Kids Connect
Is anyone else planning programs for National Library Week based on the
Kids Connect theme? Just curious
as to what you are planning??? I would welcome any ideas and will post
all to the list. I am especially interested
in programs that combine adults and children.......using the internet??
Thanks!!!
Sue Becker
beckersu@oplin.lib.oh.us
---------------------
From owner-pubyac@nysernet.org Wed Feb 18 18:59:48 1998
From: "Candice Morris" <cmorris@mtlib.org>
ubject: Good Idea
My nephew's teacher in Minnesota read "Flat Stanley" by Jeff Brown to
her class.
In the book, Stanley gets squished flat and has all sorts of adventures. The
students then made a flat version of themselves and sent them off to
relatives and friends to explore the world.
Flat Kyle is visiting me in Montana this week. Flat Kyle has already had his
picture taken at the Capitol and in front of the iron buffalo skull at the
Historical Society. He plans on seeing much more of this beautiful state and
Travel Montana is sending a packet to his classroom.
What a great way for third graders to learn about other areas. Actually,
this is the first time Kyle & Flat Kyle have been excited about a school
project. I was so impressed with this idea from Mrs. Stearns at Ramsey
Elementary School that I thought I'd share it with you all.
Candice Morris Lewis & Clark Library http://www.mth.mtlib.org/
Youth Services Librarian 120 S. Last Chance Gulch Helena, MT 59601
cmorris@mtlib.org 406 447-1690 ex.15 Fax 406 447-1687
---------------------
From owner-pubyac@nysernet.org Wed Feb 18 18:58:42 1998
From: torrie@ci.burlington.wa.us (Torrie Hodgson Children's Librarian)
ubject: Re: sign-language interpreters at programs
I have not run into this particular problem yet (cross fingers and
knock on wood), but one way I have gotten interpreters in the past is to
contact local signing teachers. Colleges, and even high schools often have
classes in sign and those students usually have to do some signing in the
community as a course requirement.
Another way may be to see if the child is in public school and has a
signing assistant---perhaps the school will let you borrow the child's
interpreter, or the interpreter may just want to try it.
Gallaudet (sp?) University has published some children's picture
books with the signs drawn in next to the text. Perhaps yourself or a
volunteer could learn the signs for some stories. This is probably not a
long term solution, but could fill in the gap until you can find a professional.
Also talk to the parents, if you can. Did they say if their child
needs a sign interpreter, or merely an amplified sound system, lip reading,
or something else? (Microphones and the like can often be borrowed from the
schools.) Let them know of your budget constraints. (Don't let them think
that not providing an interpreter is an option, though.) See if they know
of an interpreter that might work a regular weekly program at a reduced
price, or some other solution. I hope that they will appreciate the effort
to include their child in a worthwhile program.
Unfortunately, you may just have to grit your teeth and find the
money somewhere.
I hope some of these ideas are practicable. My sister did some sign
language volunteering in high school and college, so I do know that this is
a valid option. Good luck, and let us know how you fare!
Torrie Hodgson 8)
>Our Youth Services Department was approached this week by a parent who
>wishes to bring his hearing impaired child to some of our programs. I am
>aware of the American Disabilities Act, and know that by law we must
>provide an interpreter at the program if we get such a request. I also
>know that the fees of the interpreter are considerable. In our library,
>we are limping along after many years of level-funded budgets, and by now
>our program budget has been cut to zero. We now fundraise for most of our
>programs, and our Friends group helps out, too. Need I say that we have
>no funds in our budget for sign-language interpreters.
>
>I would love to know what experiences other libraries have had, and what
>plans you may have set up to handle these situations. Please post to
>Pubyac, as I think we all could learn something from your responses.
>
>
>Carol Scrimgeour
>Youth Services Librarian
>Fletcher Free Library
>Burlington, Vermont
>
>802 865-7216
>scrimgeo@lemming.uvm.edu
>
>
>
>
>
Torrie Hodgson, Children's Librarian, System Administrator, and everything else!
Burlington Public Library
900 East Fairhaven Ave
Burlington, WA 98233
Phone (360) 755-0760 Fax (360) 755-0717
torrie@ci.burlington.wa.us
---------------------
From owner-pubyac@nysernet.org Wed Feb 18 18:58:41 1998
From: schachtc@lcm.macomb.lib.mi.us
Subject: RE: children's lib'n at adult reference desk
PU>Hello,
PU>Walter Minkel wrote:----------
PU>You also might want to make some friendly signs...
How about "ALL AGES, ALL QUESTIONS; ASK HERE FOR SUGGESTIONS"
Chuck Schacht
Romeo District Library
Romeo, MI.
---------------------
From owner-pubyac@nysernet.org Wed Feb 18 19:01:40 1998
From: Bill and Kate McLean <mclean@peachnet.campus.mci.net>
Subject: when to read?
Dear all,
Its been so long since I've been "on" (we just got computers, hooray!)
=
and I wanted to answer about when I read. Except for the quick moments =
when choosing books for a storytime, I do not read at "the office." I
=
believe it sends a bad signal prompting those comments "Oh, it must be =
nice to have a job where you get to read all these books!" =20
I make a conscious effort to read award winners and professional =
materials (well some anyway) at home at night and on weekends although I =
can't say that I finish everything. Oh, someone asked about comp time. =
I can have comp time for hours I work at home, however I never seem to =
be able to take it. Oh well.=20
Kate McLean
mclean@peachnet.campus.mci.net
---------------------
From owner-pubyac@nysernet.org Wed Feb 18 19:00:14 1998
From: Vicky Schoenrock <vschoenr@nslsilus.org>
ubject: Re: Disable adults
Thanks to everyone who replied. I got a wide variety of responses - the
upshot was we (the director and I) decided it was outside our realm and
forwarded it to our Extension (Outreach) Dept.
It was interesting the number of people who expressed their desire to see
such a service - that adults (of all kinds) should be exposed to
literature in a storytelling or reaading aloud format. Is this something
adult services is willing to add to its services? Several people had
personal experiences with reading to disabled adults - mostly positive.
But that idea that the experience of hearing language aloud was
important to everyone. And I
agree. I love listening to public radio - a series that reads adult short
stories, even though I am really a print person.
Part of our wrestling with this request, was where do we draw the line
between "Outreach" and free entertainment? And I am still
wrestling.....
Vicky Schoenrock, Youth Services Manager
Waukegan Public Library, 128 N. County St. Waukegan IL 60085
Phone: 847-623-2041 Fax:847-623-2092
vschoenr@nslsilus.org
***My opinions are my own, of course**
"remain calm and share your bananas." - Anne Lamott
---------------------
From owner-pubyac@nysernet.org Wed Feb 18 19:00:43 1998
From: ILefkowitz@aol.com
Subject: outside reading
Hi! Like many other YA Librarians, I became a YA Librarian because I love to
read and specifically love to read YA literature. I do get some off desk time
during each day. We are lucky enough to have a full reference staff so that
we only work 2 - 4 hours on the desk a day. While that sounds like it leaves
plenty of room for reading at your desk, it doesn't. Between reviewing
journals and book ordering, planning programs and attending meetings, there is
scarecly any time left over for reading. On the rare occassion that is slow
at the desk, I might take a book out to leaf through but you can never really
read a book at the reference desk. I take a fair number of books home with
me. Many I end up just skimming or reading a little bit from and others I
devour from page to page. It depends. I don't get paid for any of the
reading I do on my own time, but I enjoy it. Hope this helps!
Ilene Lefkowitz
YA Librarian
Englewood Public Library (NJ)
ILefkowitz@aol.com
---------------------
From owner-pubyac@nysernet.org Wed Feb 18 18:58:39 1998
From: Becky Tatar <bltata@aurora.lib.il.us>
ubject: Re: Service to Disabled Adults
At 12:25 PM 2/10/98 -0600, you wrote:
>We (Youth services) have had a request to go to an Adult Day care and read
>stories and poems to adults with dementia.
Sorry this is so late; I have been off sick. For a long time at our
library, we used to go to various nursing homes and read aloud for about a
half hour. We also still go to these nursing homes and show travel videos
with public performance rights. We stopped the reading aloud due to lack of
interest, and staffing problems at the time. You may not want to do this on
a regular basis, but every once in a while. It is very difficult for these
organizations to get programming; they usually have little or no money, and
most entertainment costs. If you have the staff and time, go for it. Also,
this might sound obvious, but try to make sure that the person who does the
program can work with this type of group. Not everyone can. Good Luck!
>
-----------------------------------
Becky Tatar
Unit Head, Periodicals/Audio-Visual
Aurora Public Library
1 E. Benton Street
Aurora, IL 60505
Phone: 630/264-4100, x4116
FAX: 630/896-3209
e-mail: bltata@aurora.lib.il.us
Opinions are my own.
---------------------
From owner-pubyac@nysernet.org Wed Feb 18 18:59:03 1998
From: CV Childrens <cvjuve@oplin.lib.oh.us>
ubject: SRC Theme
We are using a mystery theme this year for our summer reading club, and we
are unable to agree on a slogan/name for our club for children (up to 4th
grade). We are looking for something really catchy. We would appreciate any
suggestions! Thanks in advance!
Marsha Rakestraw, YA Specialist
Washington-Centerville Public Library
Centerville, OH 45458
cvjuve@oplin.lib.oh.us
or
rakestma@oplin.lib.oh.us
---------------------
From owner-pubyac@nysernet.org Wed Feb 18 18:58:39 1998
From: karen wendt <kmwendt@scls.lib.wi.us>
ubject: Centerpieces
Someone asked for ideas for centerpieces for a business meeting.
How about putting newspaper and magazine pages into clear glass vases
(mason jars) or wrapped with bright ribbons on the outside so the vases
could actually be filled with flowers if there is money (something simple,
like daisies) or
if you have volunteers they could make flowers that are topped with
pictures of books (we made large petals and glued cut out pictures of book
covers from book catalogs.
Or, do you have a collection of magazines/newspapers that are going to be
tossed? We always do around January February. Pile them up in the center of
the tables, tied with contrasting textured ribbon. Top off with one fake
flower resting over the top of them.
Do you get free laminating from anyone? Laminate stips of newsprint or
strips from old business magazines and stripe them widthwise or lengthwise
down the tables. Make newspaper hats for centerpieces. Stick a rectangle
shape like a feather in the hat made out of the titles of business magazines.
Balloons could be used instead of flowers in any of the above.
Hope you find something. You are bound to get lots of ideas from pubyac.
Karen
kmwendt@scls.lib.wi.us
Karen M. Wendt, Children's and Young Adult Coordinator
Monona Public Library
1000 Nichols Road, Monona WI 53716
608-222-6127
---------------------
From owner-pubyac@nysernet.org Wed Feb 18 19:01:27 1998
From: druthgo@sonic.net (Dr. Ruth I. Gordon)
ubject: Taking back our profession
PUBBERS: I think we, as those in service to children and young adults
(a.k.a., "young people") should be interested in what Saint Dorothy
has to
say. Recall, if you will, my posting of a few weeks ago about Spectrum and
Univ. Cal. Berkeley and you'll understand to what St. Dorothy refers.
--Big Grandma
>Date: Mon, 16 Feb 1998 13:55:53 -0600
>Reply-To: member-forum@ala.org
>Sender: owner-member-forum@ala.org
>From: dorthybr@cadvantage.com (Dorothy M. Broderick)
>To: member-forum@ala1.ala.org
>Subject: Taking back our profession
>Mime-Version: 1.0
>X-Sender: dorthybr@cadvantage.com (Unverified)
>
> A small, but hopefully growing, group of us are developing a
>resolution for presentation at Council in DC (one will be ready for
>membership should a quorum be established) that would mandate that COA
>SHALL NOT consider accrediting any program that does not have a stream of
>courses that will prepare graduates to work in the public sector. We do not
>forbid a stream of courses for work in the corporate sector, only that the
>streams be equal. That means fulltime tenure track faculty with a vote on
>decisions, not just bringing in a lot of adjuncts to pretend the school is
>meeting the criteria.
> Being good librarians, we provide first some references you may
>want to look at for background information. See: Would You Look at This?
>Lillian Gerhardt's SLJ editorial in the January 1998 issue; John Berry's
>editorial in LJ, Feb. 1, 1998 issue; and view the content of Berkeley's
>School of Information Management at
>www.sims.berkeley,edu.programs/coursecat.html.
> We would like to have addressed by ALA members the following
>talking points.
> 1) At its January 1998 meeting, the Association for Library and
>Information Education (ALISE) prepared for the ultimate dropping of library
>from its name. Tabulating fulltime faculty from the current ALISE directory
>of accredited library programs, we find that there are approximately 661
>fulltime faculty, of which 331 are members of ALISE. Is it reasonable that
>an organization of 57,000 members would allow 331 faculty members to
>eliminate the concept of libraries as viable institutions of society?
> 2) ALISE, in planning to drop library from its name is operating on
>an assumption that because it no longer wishes to educate public sector
>librarians it can eliminate the need for librarians by pretending that
>libraries will magically become something other than what they are. A truly
>faulty assumption since the public using libraries has a clear idea in mind
>as to what it expects and wants from the institution.
> 3) From the beginning, library educators have made accommodation
>for the changing needs of the marketplace. When it became clear that
>librarians were needed in medical, law, science, etc., libraries, courses
>were added to the curriculum to meet these needs. We are asking current
>educators to recognize their responsibility to meet public sector needs
>while not denying them the freedom to prepare other types of information
>providers.
> 4) Libraries have always been responsive to changes in the formats
>of entertainment/information. We have moved from collecting 78rpms to CDs;
>from 8mm to 16mm to video; from basically print oriented institutions to
>providing photocopy machines, word processors, and now the Internet.
>Librarianship has a long history of being additive and there is no reason
>to believe it will be otherwise in the future.
> 5) It is irrational to ask a library association to expend funds to
>accredit programs that deny its reason for existence.
> 6) Public sector libraries are the only vehicle that can help
>bridge the gap between the economically well off and the economically
>impoverished, an essential if society is not to self-destruct.
> 7) In the coming decade we will have more K-12 young people than at
>any time history. Both schools and public libraries will need educated
>youth specialists to serve this huge population and educated must mean more
>than an ability to create a home page or surf the web and make links.
> We would welcome any reactions and additions to the above talking
>points. This is a genuine call for a dialogue.
>Dorothy M. Broderick
>
>Dorothy M. Broderick
>2025 Prairie Lane
>Emporia, KS 66801
>(316) 342-9277
>(316) 342-6391 (also fax)
>
==================
"You may not be able to change the world, but at least you can embarrass
the guilty." Jessica Mitford (1917-1996)
---------------------
From owner-pubyac@nysernet.org Wed Feb 18 18:59:51 1998
From: Gail Roberts <groberts@sailsinc.org>
Subject: Re: Outside hours reading
Jennifer:
I have always said that it is important for children's librarians to read
children's books, as the kids don't know what to look for, unlike adults
who search for a certain author, genre, or subject. I also consider it
part of my job to read kid's books. BUT, I don't have time to read on the
job, except during breaks and lunch. I read every new picture book and
juv. fiction book that comes in, and at least scan through the
non-fiction. I also do this to remind myself why I purchased the book in
the first place. I read A LOT, even while walking in the halls, and once
while riding a bike (I was 12, and it ended in disaster). Journals and
reveiws get read while on the desk because I need my computer near me,
and, if I bring them home, the members of my household leave notes in the
margins ("Mom, buy this one!"), and otherwise stick oars in my book
purchasing. I do bring books home to read, but find they wander through
the house, ending up with my husband or my daughter, or under a cat. (You
know the book The Library by Stewart? That's my house.) I do not get
time at work to read, and used to get disparaging remarks from the staff
when caught reading until I told them I considered it part of my job to
read these books, as I am the only children's librarian in a five branch
system, and the only staff member that reads children's books. Reading
the books is so very very important, it's worth squeezing in whenever
possible. When I got my new assistant, I handed her a four-page list of
titles and told her to "start reading". Fortunately, she is glad to do
so. (Also, the kids see you, and you set a good example. Kids see me
reading, and ask about the book. Oftentimes, I don't get to finish it -
it goes out right off my desk.)
"It's hard to make things foolproof, because fools are so ingenious."
(Don't know who said it, but it's my favorite saying.)
Gail E. Roberts
Coordinator of Youth Services
New Bedford Free Public Library
New Bedford, MA
groberts@sailsinc.org
groberts@capecod.net
---------------------
From owner-pubyac@nysernet.org Wed Feb 18 19:00:29 1998
From: Pam Koehler <pkoehler@wcic.org>
Subject: Re: Outside hours reading
I find I can read picture books at work, they don't take long. I can do it when
I'm at the front desk or the adult reference desk. We have books called
"Young
Hoosiers". 60 books are nominated every year, 20 picture books, 20 for
grades
4-6, and 20 for grades 6-8. I try to read as many as I can. These are the books
that seem to be the newest and sometimes the most controversial. I like to know
what they are so I can recommend them with confidence. I also try to read a
variety of the adult best sellers, especially the ones we have long reserve
lists
on. Some of them are not in my area of interest, so if we have them I listen to
them on tape. I have done this with _Into Thin Air_ and _The Perfect Storm_ and
_Angela's Ashes._ I tend to read lighter books for enjoyment, but like the fact
I
know these books and can talk intelligently to a patron about them.
Pam
West Lafayette Indiana Public Library
---------------------
From owner-pubyac@nysernet.org Wed Feb 18 19:07:20 1998
From: Hope Baugh <hopeb@iquest.net>
ubject: summary: part- vs. fulltime management
Dear Pubyac-ers,
Forgive the length, but I have tried to summarize the overwhelming
response I got, plus my own thoughts. I promise I'll shut up after this!
I received 24 responses, on- and off-list (and then I stopped
counting!) Only 2 were convinced that a parttime (PT) dept. head (DH) could
serve the library and its patrons as well as a fulltime (FT) one. 20 said
the DH should be FT. One wasn't sure. One didn't answer my question but
did give me good advice about managing stress.
Of the 20 that said the DH should be FT, most were sympathetic
towards people who want to both spend more time with their children and keep
their management jobs. (And IMO this is not just a "women's problem"
nor a
"women-who-have-children's problem.") 5 suggested job-sharing.
NO ONE wrote to say that they worked for a PT or job-shared manager
and liked it. One person told me the Head of the Circ. Dept. at her library
had been job-shared for a while, but that they'd had to go back to 1 FT
person. Another person told me the Head of the Children's Dept. in her
library is job-shared, but only the job-sharers think it is working. I
think managerial job-sharers might be kidding themselves, but I don't really
know. I do know from observation that job-sharing NON-supervisory positions
can work well for all concerned.
But my question was what I should have said when my Director (Dir.)
asked me to help her come up with positive reasons why the DH should be a FT
position. There was money in the budget for it. As you know, I've left
that library, but thanks to your comments, if she ever asks me again, I will
be able to say:
1. The Children's Room information desk can be staffed more
effectively.
Our library was open 60 hours a week. I worked 37.5 hours a week
and my boss (the Head of the Children's Dept.) worked 20, officially. Even
if our schedules had never overlapped, it meant a professional children's
librarian was available to the public only 57.5 hours a week. But of
course, our schedules had to overlap some. And neither of us was in the
library all the time. I visited several daycares every month, and often
visited local elementary schools. My boss wanted this outreach service to
increase, so I would have been spending less and less time available to
"walk-in" patrons. Her 20 hours were often spent in meetings, or in
using
up vacation time before the end of the year, or in doing work before the
library opened. We both were encouraged by the Dir. to attend workshops and
conferences, which I loved, but which also meant less time actually
available to the public.
The two (1.5 FTE) paraprofessionals in our dept. were excellent, but
even with their good service the dept. was often left with only a high
school page or a sign on the desk that said, "Back soon." At night,
when we
were busiest, there was often only one staff member. With a new building,
we would only get busier.
2. Staff and patrons get the full benefit of the DH's skills and
experience.
One Pubyac-er wrote, "As a new librarian you deserved the help and
guidance of an available staff person, not a hit or miss one." This was a
big part of the problem for me. Yes, I can work independently, and yes, I
had had five years' experience, and yes, I'm a "hot shot" (good at
what I
do) but if I had wanted to be the only professional in the dept. I would
have looked for that kind of job. The few times I did get to observe my
boss doing programs or interacting with patrons, and the few times we did
get to chat about book selection and other library issues just made me
resent the fact that I wasn't getting more of those good opportunities.
I also felt sorry for the other staff and for our patrons. One
Pubyac-er wrote, "People with too much to do seldom have time to stay
abreast philosophically. Does she (the PT DH) travel to ALA, etc.? Does
she read listservs? Has she tried out Internet filters and followed that
debate? Does she read the articles in the professional journals, or only
the reviews? Does she have time to formulate a vision for her dept., or is
she just managing to keep treading water?" Actually, my boss did a very
good job of doing all this, but she was rarely there to share what she'd
learned with the staff or the public.
3. The Assistant Children's Librarian (me) can throw herself
joyfully into her work without feeling dumped on or taken advantage of.
One Pubyac-er wrote, "I would look at the job description for the
children's room DH, and then check off all the tasks you yourself ended up
having to do because the DH was only PT." This is a good suggestion, except
that we had no real job descriptions, nor annual reviews.
The first time I threw up on the way to work, I was almost there, so
I went on in to clean up a little and to tell my boss that I was going home
to change. I was laughing, because physically I felt fine. I had been just
driving along, thinking about the school visits I had that day, and all of a
sudden, "Bleaack!" My lap was full of vomit. I'm laughing about it
again,
remembering. But later I said to my boss that both my desk and my job felt
like dumping grounds and I wanted to talk with her about my
responsibilities. This took great courage for me, since I've never been
very good at saying no or setting limits, but I figured my body was shouting
at me and I'd better listen.
My boss said she would always be giving me more to do, because as
soon as I mastered one task or activity I'd be able to handle more, and that
we would never get to sit around and read magazines. I felt hurt and
frustrated by that conversation. Who said anything about sitting around and
reading magazines?!
After the "post-vomit" conversation, my boss did take away one of my
professional responsibilities - I had been pre-cataloging new books before
they went to our cataloguer - but she didn't take this on herself. Nor did
she try to work things out with the cataloguer. She decided it didn't need
a professional after all, and delegated it to one of the paraprofessionals,
who, in turn, was also very good at not taking on too much at once, and was
very happy to do less shelving. But this meant the other paraprofessional
now felt SHE was being dumped on, having to do all the shelving herself on
the days we didn't have a page. I struggled not to feel guilty.
One Pubyac-er wrote, "I hope you talked to the PT DH and Dir. about
the stress this (throwing up on the way to work) caused you and gave them an
opportunity to resolve these problems while you were there. I know it's
easy for me to Monday morning quarterback the game that has already been
played but we have been discussing how hard it is to fix what people don't
present as problems." I talked to the Dir. more than once, about this and
other concerns, and she was always a great listener. She agreed with
everything I said, and encouraged me to come back anytime I "needed to
talk." I often left her office feeling heard and comforted. But as the
months went by and my situation hadn't changed, I began to realize that I
didn't just need someone to talk to. I didn't need or want the Dir. to be
my friend. I needed the Dir. to take action. If I had it to do over, I'd
spend more time hashing things out with my friends and writing in my
journal, so that when I went to the Dir. I could be more specific, more
solution-oriented in my requests for help.
4. In this particular situation, having a FT DH can help staff feel
better.
A year or two after my boss was allowed to go PT, another DH asked
to go PT and was refused. She quit and found another job. This was before
I got there, so I don't know all the details, but I do know that many of the
staff resent what they see as the Dir. playing favorites. I resented that
the library was doing wonderful things only because I and other staff were
picking up the slack with no power to set limits.
A Pubyac-er wrote, "With the DH available only, say, a third of open
hours, who is likely to be dealing with irate patrons or deciding whether or
not a particular child should be granted an exception to rule x? The other
staff, who get less pay, less recognition, and less material for their
resumes. If, instead, everything is waiting for her to make a decisison,
then neither patrons nor staff are getting prompt attention."
Someone else wrote, "Responsibilities for children's library roles
can often be split fairly easily - programming vs. collection development,
e.g.) but - and this is the big but - the salary/benefits/prestige need to
be split too."
From another Pubyac-er: "It isn't fair to have the title without
putting in the requisit time and effort."
And another: "Maybe you had too many things to do, maybe you were
being forced to face situations for which you had no authority and no
decision-making power...??" Yes, I and the other people in the dept.
5. The community can believe that children's services are
important, and that the library is committed to supporting them.
One Pubyac-er wrote, "The library does not show the community how
important optimal service to its children is when the DH is PT...In a
library which garners much of its community image from services to children
(as mine does, and it seems to me yours does too!) it is too important a
role to have only PT coverage. The community and other staff infer that
this is not something worthy of serious attention and its services get
marginalized rather than being a central point of pride and service."
I believe PT workers can be as committed to excellence as any FT
worker, but I do not believe that a library that has a PT DH is as committed
to serving children, parents, and teachers as one with a FT DH. I just
don't. And I think that no matter how good the PT person is, no matter how
much tweaking is done to try to make the situation work, the message sent to
everyone - the board, other DH's, community leaders - is that children's
services just aren't that important.
When I first posted to Pubyac, I was still feling resentful and
frustrated. Someone else wrote, "Responsibilities, policies, chain of
command, would have to be clearly outlined. And the right person hired."
They weren't, and I wasn't. BUT, now that some time has gone by (and now
that my situation has changed for the better!), I wouldn't trade my year in
that job for anything. I learned a lot about myself - my professional
beliefs, my optimal work environments, my strengths and weaknesses. I
learned some things about communication and about setting limits. I got to
do a lot of things that now look great on my resume. I got to go to LOTS of
conferences and workshops. I got to do a lot of storytelling and was
reminded of how much I like it. I got to see what it's like to work in a
medium-sized, "small town" public library. (I had worked in a large,
urban
public library system, and a small special/academic library overseas.) Most
importantly, perhaps, I got to ease back into the library profession after
being away for 6 years; I got to learn about the Internet and CD-ROMS and
listservs and other things that weren't part of my life before. I am
returning now to a large, urban system much better prepared, much more
confident, than if I had returned right away.
At the risk of sounding callous, I still think the Dept. Head should
be fulltime, but it is no longer my problem. Yes, it "takes a village"
but
I am not the only member of the village, and there are many places in the
village where I can serve and still take good care of myself..
Anyway...thank you very, very much for listening and responding.
Hope Baugh
hopeb@iquest.net
---------------------
From owner-pubyac@nysernet.org Wed Feb 18 19:13:07 1998
From: Carol Parkinson <cparkins@connect.bedlib.org>
Subject: Thanks
Many thanks to all those who responded about the video version of
"Hatchet". The video is called "A Cry in the Wild" (MGM).
There is also
a PBS version called "Lost in the Wilderness".
Thanks,
Carol Parkinson
cparkins@bedlib.org
---------------------
From owner-pubyac@nysernet.org Wed Feb 18 19:13:45 1998
From: "Michael Dennison" <msdennison@hotmail.com>
Subject: Re: electric library vs. world news cd-rom
In our high school media center we are currently running a free trial of
Electric Library. My partner and I both like it. You can search for
newspapers, periodicals, books, t.v. programs together or select the
type of media you wish to search from. Students have not used it much
but I feel the reason is because it is a new service. We also just got
the Internet at the same time. Our counter part in the middle school
does not like this service. I have talked to other media specialists
and they have it or recommend it. We are part of the Southern New
Jersey cooperative who is getting us a discount subscription if we
subscribe. The decision is on the administration, but I am recommending
Electric Library as a service for our patrons this September. Hope I
helped a bit. E-mail smcgowan@infonautics.com
She is the service rep. for us.
Michael Dennison
> >input needed: does anyone subscribe to either the online electric
>library or the "facts on file" world news cd-rom?
---------------------
From owner-pubyac@nysernet.org Wed Feb 18 19:14:58 1998
From: "Darlene Arnold" <darnold@Inet.educ.state.mn.us>
Subject: Baby/book carriages
I am a general reference librarian for a state library agency and have
recently been contacted by a public library whose friends group has
expressed an interest in purchasing baby/book carriages for the
library. They want to know first if they are safe or (if there are
several manufacturers) any recommendations. I would appreciate any
leads, comments , any help whatsoever. Thanks.
Darlene Arnold
Library Development & Services
MN Dept. of Children, Families & Learning
Darlene.Arnold@state.mn.us
---------------------
From owner-pubyac@nysernet.org Wed Feb 18 19:19:40 1998
From: "Brenda Megonegal" <btmeg@sjnetworks.com>
Subject: Stumper: Make Lemonade
I recently read Make Lemonade to my 9th grade English classes. They really
enjoyed it and I was able to get a lot of various reactions from them.
They were frustrated with the characters, and their lifestyles, but at the
same time were able to realize that many people so live under these
conditions. As one of my culminating activities, I had the students make a
collage about the story. They really got into it. What I was wondering
is, has anyone used this story in their classrooms, and if so, what were
some of the activities that you used? Thanks for your input!
Brenda Megonegal
btmeg@sjnetworks.com
---------------------
From owner-pubyac@nysernet.org Wed Feb 18 19:15:19 1998
From: Catherine Mau <cmau@bal.alibrary.com>
Subject: Stuffed animals
Does anyone know of a source for giant stuffed animals, other than FAO
Schwartz? If so, please respond directly to me and I'll post the information
to the list if there's interest. Thanks!
Catherine Mau
cmau@bal.alibrary.com
------------------------------------------------------
Catherine Mau
Head of Young People's Services
Barrington Area Library
505 N. Northwest Highway
Barrington, IL 60010-3399
Phone: 847.382.1300
FAX: 847.382.1261
cmau@bal.alibrary.com
---------------------
From owner-pubyac@nysernet.org Wed Feb 18 19:18:58 1998
From: druthgo@sonic.net (Dr. Ruth I. Gordon)
ubject: Reading
Dear PUBBERS: When I was in active service, I always read outside of work.
There was simply not enough time to read books at work. I believed--and
believe--that being a professional means that I honed my professional
skills and reading is essential to those skills and an ability to help a
person find a book or discuss one with him/her. Yes, it took time but I
don't think it rotted my brain too much. Now, of course, in retirement one
of my main businesses is reading and I still enjoy it (but there is so much
junque out there and that I don't enjoy--at all). As for a rotted
brain--well, better minds than mine must ascertain that.
--Big Grandma
==================
"You may not be able to change the world, but at least you can embarrass
the guilty." Jessica Mitford (1917-1996)
---------------------
From owner-pubyac@nysernet.org Wed Feb 18 19:19:34 1998
From: E Spicer <espicer@accn.org>
Subject: Re: microfiche/film recommendations?
The print quality on the microfiche/film readers at my library is poor.
Any recommendations for machines to purchase that receive heavy, daily
use (while printing good clean copies)? If cost isn't a consideration
(even though it obviously is) would your recommendation change?
---------------------
From owner-pubyac@nysernet.org Wed Feb 18 19:15:08 1998
From: Arlene Sandner <asandner@rcls.org>
Subject: Picture Book Chaos Query
Dear Pubyacers,
Thanks to all 27 of you who responded to my query on the organization
of a large picture book collection. Special thanks to Lu Benke, who
forwarded me all the responses she received (and SAVED!) from a similar
query she posted a few years ago.
Here is a summary of the results:
11 libraries use full alphabetical order (one with the addition
of colored tape, and another with the addition of a large black letter)
10 used 3 Cutter letters on the spine
2 used the first two letters
1 used 5 letters
3 used Picture Book Bins
and only one was very happy with one Cutter letter and colored tape.
I think we're going to go with 3 letters on the spine.
Arlene Sandner
New City Library
New City, New York
---------------------
From owner-pubyac@nysernet.org Wed Feb 18 19:15:15 1998
From: "Lorie J. O'Donnell" <odonnell@borg.com>
Subject: Re: sign-language interpreters at programs
Carol,
As I am the Children's Librarian for the public library in Rome, NY,
where the New York State School for the Deaf is located, I have a lot of
experience with sign interpreters. I am of the opinion that it is an
essential part of a budget. If not provided, oyu block library access
to the hearing impaired. This is not only bad for the child, but could
lead the parent to some action against the library's policy.
You may want to check with any local colleges or tech schools. MAny of
them have sign classes, and there may be students willing to do the
program for a small fee. Other than that, All I can suggest is get
some funding from somewhere, because the hearing impaired community is a
vital part of any library, and you don't want to lose it!
Lorie
--
**************************************************
Lorie J. O'Donnell
odonnell@borg.com
http://www.borg.com/~odonnell/index.html
"I hope we never lose sight of one thing.
That this was all started by a mouse" Walt Disney
---------------------
From owner-pubyac@nysernet.org Wed Feb 18 19:18:51 1998
From: Sherri Douglas <sherrid@muskox.alaska.edu>
Subject: Job Opening - Anchorage, AK - YOuth SErvices
This Youth Services position is open until filled.
Job No: 72 PCN No: 5373-0184
Youth Services Programming and Reference Librarian
Anchorage Municipal Libraries Anchorage, Alaska
Job Duties - Youth Services Programming & Reference Librarian is
responsible for the 1) provision of basic library reference service for
youth, parents and care providers, particularly specialized service in
pre-school collection development; 2) conducting library computer catalog
instruction to youth and adults, as needed; 3) coordination, promotion
and implementation of pre-school and school-age library programs,
includes outreach activites, such as the Born to Read Project; 4) design
and development of bibliographic aids.
Qualifications - Masters in Library Science with prior professional
library experience, which includes children's reference, pre-school
programming and public speaking experience is required. Direct working
experience with parents and young children preferred. Direct working
experience with various ethnic groups of all ages. An undergraduate
degree in childhood development or education and/or some specific work
experience or knowledge in the area of school-age library material
resources is desired. Familiarity with automated systems, online
searching, INTERNET searching, CD-ROM technology, use of Macintosh and/or
PC desktop publishing is required. Effective problem solving, decision
making, communication and presentations skills, and the ability to
exercise independent judgment are essential.
Work Schedule - Full-time, 40 hour week, 9:00 am - 6 pm, Tuesday - Saturday
Evenings and some Sundays possible
$16.78 per hour
To apply, please submit your resume and cover letter via one of the
following methods: deliver to the Employment Office in Anchorage at 632
W. 6th AVenue, Room 720; mail to Employment, Municipality of Anchorage,
PO Box 196650, Anchorage, AK 99519-6650; fax to 907-343-4511; or e-mail
to WWER@ci.anchorage.ak.us Recruiting is open until the position is
filled. If any questions, please call Steve Williams at 907-343-4510.
---------------------
From owner-pubyac@nysernet.org Wed Feb 18 19:15:22 1998
From: "Carole Fiore"<cfiore@mail.dos.state.fl.us>
Subject: Thanks -- for statistics use stories
Several months ago I requested information about how
children's and YA librarians used statistics to bolster
their budget requests. Many thanks to all who replied. I
was able to incorporate several of the success stories you
provided on how practitioners really use statistics with
positive results. My article on this topic is now completed
and is titled "The Numbers Game: How to Fatten Your Budget
Using Statistics." Look for it in the March issue of
_School Library Journal_. I would love to hear your
comments about it after you read it. Thanks again for all
your assistance!
Carole
*********************************************************
Carole D. Fiore
Library Program Specialist/Youth Services Consultant
State Library of Florida
R. A. Gray Building
Tallahassee, FL 32399-0250
PHONE: 850/487-2651 FAX: 850/488-2746 TDD: 850/922-4085
E-mail: CFIORE@mail.dos.state.fl.us
*********************************************************
---------------------
From owner-pubyac@nysernet.org Wed Feb 18 19:20:32 1998
From: Catherine Seay <seayc@mail.clayton.public.lib.ga.us>
ubject: Youth Services Position/Atlanta Area
This position, posted 11/97 has been filled.
---------------------
From owner-pubyac@nysernet.org Wed Feb 18 19:20:47 1998
From: "Bridgett Johnson" <bridgett@lewis-carnegie-library.org>
Subject: Re: Outside hours reading
I read all the easy picture books I receive at work, before they are
catalogued. But I read almost all the junior fiction and YA stuff at
home at night. Many times I have to force myself to read something
that I wouldn't normally choose myself so that I can book talk it to
the kids, I figure I can't tell a kid very much more about a book
than what is on the cover if I don't. I have been so pleasantly
surprised with books that I wouldn't have normally read that now its
much easier to do it (read out of my genre, that is). The kids are
impressed with the book talks, and the amount I read, I can't help
feel that it sets a good example. I always tell them when I haven't
read the book yet or if someone else has read it and recommended it.
My own children (4) end up reading some of them for me. A great con
to get them to read, they all have different tastes. I feel it is my
commitment to be the very best I can be .(even my boss is impressed,
it doesn't get me a raise but...)
Bridgett Johnson,Youth Services Librarian
Lewistown Public Library, 701 W. Main, Lewistown, Montana 59457
(406) 538 - 8559 bridgett@lewis-carnegie-lib.org
---------------------
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