ALA Colorado Chapter Councilor

ALA Chapter Councilor News is Moving to Colorado Libraries

2010-01-14T07:48:00.004-07:00

Hi all -

The ALA Colorado Chapter Councilor blog is moving! Posts will now be part of the Colorado Libraries blog. We look forward to helping make that site the "one stop shop" for news and information of interest to those using and working in Colorado libraries.

In the meantime, if you have any questions or concerns about what is happening in ALA Council, please contact me at erosenfeld@highplains.us.

Welcome to Elena Rosenfeld

2009-11-06T12:32:00.000-07:00

We are so lucky to have Elena Rosenfeld from High Plains Library district as our new Chapter Councilor. Look for continued information on this blog re ALA and Colorado libraries.

Bundled Registration to ALA ends September 30

2009-09-18T14:40:00.002-06:00

Well, I've reached my 150th blog. That seems like a milestone as I get prepared to hand over the responsibilities to Colorado's new chapter councilor, Elena Rosenfeld from High Plains. Although the elections haven't taken place, there is no opposition, so I can say this with a high degree of certainty! At any rate, just wanted to let you folks know that September 30th is the last day for bundled registration for both Midwinter 2010 and Annual 2010. You can go to:

http://tinyurl.com/mqgdao

Midwinter Bundled Registration Opens Sept. 1

2009-09-02T16:18:00.001-06:00

Once again ALA is offering a special bundled price on the Midwinter Meeting and the Annual Conference if you register for both events during September. You can save 20% over the advance registration price you would pay if you bought each event separately. Included in your registration are the ALA President’s Program, the Author Forum, exhibits, discussion groups, committee meetings, the Opening Reception, the Technology Showcase, the Arthur Curley Memorial Lecture, and the Sunrise Speaker Series. See the registration page for more information.
http://www.ala.org/ala/conferencesevents/upcoming/midwinter/2010/index.cfm

Camila Alire Takes the Helm

2009-07-17T11:28:00.002-06:00

It's been a really busy month for me - can't believe my last post was in early June. ALA Annual in Chicago was the biggest ever - with over 28,000 attendees. The Presidential gavel was passed on to our own Camila Alire, Monte Vista native. A wonderful article in the Pueblo Chieftain about Alire can be found at: http://tinyurl.com/m8snk4

I am just finishing up my report to the Association on the Council activities. One of my fellow councilors, James Casey always writes a detailed report and rather than duplicating efforts, I have taken his report (blanket permission granted on the ALA listserv) and edited it to focus on information relevant for Coloradoans. That will be posted on the CAL listserv along with ALA's Executive Director's report, which is most informative.

I will continue with this blog as relevant ALA information comes forward but there will be a fall election to vote on the new Chapter Councilor, which I will not be running for. It's been a wonderful experience but I have made commitments in other committees in ALA and need to focus on those for the next few years. If you have any interest in running for Chapter Councilor please contact me and let's talk about it! swalchak@gmail.com

Basketball Star Candace Parker, Chair Library Card Sign up Month

2009-06-01T11:46:00.000-06:00

Olympic gold medalist and 2008 WNBA Rookie of the Year Candace Parker will let Americans know that a library card is the “smartest card” in every wallet.
As Honorary Chair of Library Card Sign up Month in September, Parker will be featured in print and radio public service announcements (PSAs). The American Library Association (ALA) will place the PSAs in magazines and on radio stations across the country.
PSAs are available for free download to libraries looking to promote Library Card Sign-up Month locally. In addition to the PSAs, librarians can download sample media materials and Web badges. All resources can be downloaded at www.ala.org/librarycardsignup.

ALSC Kids! Campaign

2009-06-01T09:53:00.002-06:00

Phase two of the ALSC Kids! @ your library public awareness campaign, which officially launches July 12, focuses on tools to help librarians promote library services to kids in Grades 5–8. All campaign resources are free and available for download at http://www.ala.org/kids

ALSC is the world's largest organization dedicated to the support and enhancement of library service to children. With a network of more than 4,300 children's and youth librarians, literature experts, publishers and educational faculty, ALSC is committed to creating a better future for all children by creating better opportunities. To learn more about ALSC, visit its Web site at www.ala.org/alsc.

Program Proposal for ALA Annual 2010 - PLA

2009-05-22T11:23:00.000-06:00

Deadline Approaching: Submit a Program Proposal for ALA Annual Conference 2010 by June 1
PLA is accepting program proposals for the 2010 ALA Annual Conference. The program proposal form is currently available as a downloadable word document from the PLA website. www.pla.org Communities of Practice are encouraged to work with their groups on PLAspace to put together program proposals. Proposals are due June 1.

ALA Election Results - 2009

2009-05-18T16:21:00.000-06:00

The results for the ALA election are in. President-Elect is Roberta Stevens.

Colorado folks elected to positions in ALA include:

Sharon Morris, President Elect of CLENE Roundtable
Sandra Smith, Board Member, CLENE Roundtable
Diana Reese, ASCLA, Vice-Chair, Chair-Elect
Valerie Horton, ASCLA_ICANS, Vice-Chair, Chair-Elect
Jennie Bowers, ACRL_AFAS, Member-at Large
Paul Moeller, ALCTS_SS, Vice Chair, Chair-Elect

Thanks for your support of Colorado candidates.

ACRL Invites Proposals for 2010 Programs

2009-04-26T21:15:00.000-06:00

ACRL invites proposal submissions for half- or full-day professional development programs to be held prior to the 2010 ALA Midwinter Meeting or the 2010 ALA Annual Conference. ACRL workshops at Midwinter will be held in Boston January 15. Preconferences at the Annual Conference will be held in Washington, D.C., June 25. Submissions will be accepted through May 4.
http://tinyurl.com/d2h6ne

ALA Connect Debuts

2009-04-26T20:58:00.000-06:00

ALA is now providing its members a common virtual space to engage in ALA business and network with other members around issues and interests relevant to the profession. In the first phase of ALA Connect, every ALA group will have the ability to utilize posts, online docs, a group calendar, surveys, polls, chat rooms, and discussion forums. Members can log in using their regular ALA website username and password. Their records are automatically synchronized with the ALA membership database, so affiliations with committees, divisions, events, round tables, and sections are displayed. Project Manager Jenny Levine offers an overview of the site and writes: “I feel a little like Doctor Frankenstein—it’s aliiiiiive—but so far the patient is doing quite well.”...
http://connect.ala.org/

Promote School Library Media Month!

2009-04-26T20:01:00.001-06:00

As spokesperson for School Library Media Month (SLMM), best-selling author James Patterson is the voice behind public service announcements (PSAs) promoting the work of school library media specialists in schools across the country. The PSAs can be downloaded at http://www.ala.org/aasl/slmm.
The PSAs are available in lengths of 10, 15 and 20 seconds and are available for download in mp3 format. Listeners are invited by Patterson to "Discover how worlds connect" at their school libraries by celebrating SLMM. "Worlds connect @ your library" is the theme of this year's SLMM, and also of National Library Week, which was celebrated from April 12 to 18. School library media specialists are encouraged to use the PSAs on their schools' broadcasting and local radio stations. AASL is pleased to have James Patterson as spokesperson for SLMM. He will also make a special appearance at AASL's 14th National Conference & Exhibition in Charlotte, N.C.
School library media specialists will find the PSAs, links to valuable sites and other resources on the AASL Web site to help observe SLMM. "AASL wanted to give its members a complete set of tools to convey the importance of school library media programs. James Patterson's PSAs are the perfect addition to promoting School Library Media Month," said SLMM Task Force Chair Melissa Johnston.
School Library Media Month, www.ala.org/aasl/slmm, is the annual celebration of school library media specialists and their programs. First observed in 1985, the month long celebration takes place every April.
The American Association of School Librarians, www.aasl.org, a division of the American Library Association (ALA), promotes the improvement and extension of library media services in elementary and secondary schools as a means of strengthening the total education program. Its mission is to advocate excellence, facilitate change and develop leaders in the school library media field.

YALSA Announces Teens' Top Ten Nominations

2009-04-26T19:56:00.001-06:00

Nominations for the annual Teens’ Top Ten are now available at www.ala.org/teenstopten announced the Young Adult Library Services Association (YALSA), a division of the American Library Association (ALA). YALSA encourages teens to read the 25 nominees before the national Teens’ Top Ten vote, which will take place during Teen Read WeekÔ, October 18-24 — 25 weeks from now.
The Teens' Top Ten is a teen choice list, in which teens nominate and choose their favorite books of the previous year. Nominators are members of the YA Galley Group — teen book groups in 15 school and public libraries around the country. Teen book groups for YA Galley are chosen every two years; applications will be accepted in spring 2010.
Nominations are posted on Support Teen Literature Day during National Library Week. The 10 nominations that receive the most votes during Teen Read Week will be named the official Teens' Top Ten. Nominated titles were published between January 2008 and March 15, 2009.
“The Teens’ Top Ten is the only YALSA list that is created entirely by teen input,” said Sarah Cornish Debraski, YALSA president. “Every vote for these titles counts and teens can make a difference in seeing their favorite book become a Top Ten book. Libraries can plan book groups around the nominations or incorporate them into their summer reading programs!”

Judith Krug, Founder of Banned Books Week Dies

2009-04-13T09:20:00.000-06:00

EVANSTON, Ill. (AP) -- Judith Krug, a director of the Chicago-based American Library Association and founder of its Banned Books Week, has died. She was 69.
Judith Platt, president of the ALA's Freedom to Read Foundation, says Krug (KROOG) died late Saturday at Evanston Hospital in suburban Chicago following a battle with stomach cancer.
Platt says Krug had been ill for more than a year.
Krug had been head of the ALA's Office for Intellectual Freedom since 1967.
Banned Books Weeks has been observed since 1982 during the last week of September. ALA officials say the event celebrates intellectual freedom.
Krug is survived by her husband Herbert, son Steven, daughter Michelle, five grandchildren, two brothers and a sister.

More News (Better) about CPSIA Regulation

2009-03-25T21:29:00.000-06:00

ALA supports legislation introduced by U.S. Rep. Jeff Fortenberry (R-Nebr.) March 24 to amend the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act to exempt ordinary books from the lead limit within the act. In August 2008, Congress passed the law to protect children from the real dangers of toys made with lead-based paint; however, the Consumer Product Safety Commission misinterpreted it to apply to ordinary books for children 12 years of age or younger. This is a welcome step toward ensuring libraries will not be adversely affected by the law.

ALA Elections - Support Colorado Candidates!

2009-03-19T23:51:00.000-06:00

If you are an ALA member you should have received an email ballot last week allowing you to vote in the 2009 ALA Elections. There are several folks from Colorado that I encourage you to support. The more representation we have from Colorado, the better chance we have to influence policy on a national basis. In addition, this is just a great group of people who deserve your support. Thanks for your consideration!

Best regards,
Shelley Walchak, ALA Chapter Councilor/ Colorado
swalchak@gmail.com

Reese Evenson, Officers/Council, Councilor-at-large
Jody Howard, Officers/Council, Councilor-at-large
Jenny Bowers, ACRL_AFAS, Member-at-large
Gregory Heald, ACRL_LES, Member-at-large
Charlene Kellsey, ACRL_WESS, Vice-Chair, Chair-Elect
Diana Reese, ASCLA, Vice-Chair, Chair-Elect
Valerie Horton, ASCLA_ICANS, Vice-Chair, Chair-Elect
Sharon Morris, CLENE, Vice President, President-Elect
Jennie Gerke, GODORT, State and Local Documents Task Force Assistant Coordinator/ Coordinator-Elect
Sylvia Hall-Ellis, LRRT, Member-at Large
Pam Sandlian Smith, ALSC, 2011 Caldecott Committee
Paul Donald Moeller, ALCTS_SS, Vice Chair, Chair-Elect
Sandra Smith, CLENE, Board

This is the list that has been sent to me by ALA. If you are running for election and are not listed above, please contact me and I will be glad to send out another email.

Please find further information about the ALA elections below. The long url at the end is a pdf. Make sure you copy and paste the entire url into your browser when trying to use that link.
The full ballot calendar is published on the ALA Web site at http://www.ala.org/ala/aboutala/governance/alaelection/index.cfm
Broadcast emails announcing that the election polls are open will be sent beginning at 9:00 a.m. on March 17, 2009, with the last emails to be sent at 9:00 a.m. on March 19, 2009, to ensure compliance with ALA Bylaws, Article III, Section 4b. Completed ballots must be received by April 24 at 11: 59 p.m. CST. The election results will be published May 1. http://www.ala.org/ala/aboutala/governance/alaelection/2009/questions_about_the_2009_ala_election.pdf

Early Bird Registration ends on Friday for ALA Annual

2009-03-02T12:14:00.001-07:00

The Early Bird Registration deadline for ALA Annual in Chicago is this Friday, March 6th. After Friday, rates go up to the 'Advanced' prices.

http://tinyurl.com/98vtjw
Also, the Group Rate for 4 or more non-ALA members at Member Libraries is going well. If you want to get the best price (an extra 15% off the non-member rate), please register before Friday as well.

Gaming and Literacy Grants

2009-02-25T14:45:00.000-07:00

The American Library Association (ALA) Office for Literacy and Outreach Services is seeking applications from public, school and academic libraries interested in developing and implementing innovative literacy gaming services for youth ages 10-18.

This program is part of ALA's Libraries, Literacy and Gaming initiative funded by Verizon.

Ten $5,000.00 grants will be awarded to libraries clearly demonstrating creativity, capacity, sustainability and a strong commitment to literacy-related gaming services. In addition, the winning libraries will receive ongoing support and technical assistance from a team of nationally recognized library gaming experts. Winners will be announced during National Library Week, April 12-18. The grant application is available online at http://librarygamingtoolkit.org/rfp . All applications must be submitted by 11:59 pm, Friday, March 20.

ALA Election Coming Soon!

2009-02-24T14:45:00.002-07:00

This year the ALA election will be held online. This means it is important for voters to check with their library information technology personnel or Internet Service Providers to make sure that spam filters will not prefent ALA from emailing the ballot forms. Those who are without computers or are homebound may contact ALA customer service to receive a paper ballot.

Information needed to "White List" the election material email:
From: ALA Election Coordinator
Email Address: 2009election@alavote.org
Subject: ALA 2009 Election

If you need to update your email address, please go to: www.ala.org/membership.

Polls will open 8:00 a.m. MST on March 17, 2009.

Help Shape ALA's Strategic Plan

2009-02-18T22:10:00.002-07:00

Members can help strengthen and improve the programs and services that ALA provides by participating in a survey from February 23 through March 15. Log in using your seven-digit ALA member number found on your membership card and on the American Libraries mailing label. The survey takes approximately 15 minutes to complete. It will help ALA conduct a five-year evaluation of its programs and services as it creates a strategic plan for the future.

ALA Midwinter Denver Highlights

2009-02-11T10:58:00.002-07:00

ALA Midwinter meeting primarily focuses on ALA’s division and Roundtable business as opposed to training opportunities. As the host chapter, CAL was able to participate in a very active way holding a preconference, which over 70 people attended, sponsoring a booth, and holding a reception for upcoming ALA President Camila Alire at the Blair Caldwell Branch of the Denver Public Library. Although much of the Council business was routine, there was a great deal of discussion as newer librarians advocated for electronic participation and free Internet access.

Some specific areas of concern: (Thanks to Jonathan Betz-Zatz from the State of Washington.)

Intellectual Freedom:
The Freedom to Read Foundation reported some notable victories: The Child Online Protection Act was overturned after 10 years of effort; a National Security Letters case on gag orders without judicial review put burden of proof on government before enforcing them; and a Harmful to Minors literature sellers registration requirement in Indiana was struck down as too vague. Another harmful to minors case--Powell's books in Oregon—is still underway. FTRF says that the state law makes no provision for judging value of content, as federal law does. FTRF has joined the Valerie Plame Wilson case challenging redaction, saying that the government must demonstrate harm of information that is already in the public domain.
FTRF is monitoring two other important cases: the Miami_Dade School Board case on removing a book from classrooms and the North Central Regional Library District case on mandatory, non removable filtering. The last is an ACLU case; the Freedom to Read Foundation and ALA are not participating.
Intellectual Freedom Committee has published a festschrift for Gordon Conable and added a casebook on privacy and copyright issues to its annual series. They are planning to publish a new edition of the IF manual in 2010. They are also publicizing a national conversation on privacy called "Privacy Revolution" with door hangers and a website: www.privacyrevolution.org
Banned Books Week 2009 will be held Sept 27-October 4. Information: www.ala.org/bbooks.
Council adopted three revisions to the Intellectual Freedom Manual on “Challenged Material”, “Restricted Access to Library Materials” and “Services to Persons with Disabilities”.

National Legislation:
The Committee on Legislation encourages librarian participation in the legislative process through links on ALA’s website and through attending Library Legislative Day May 11-12. ALA’s Legislative Assembly is a good place for ALA units to be represented (for example, the Government Documents Round Table). Most importantly for CAL, they encourage chapters to involve themselves more deeply in legislation.
Council agreed to increase the committee membership to handle its expanded workload, encouraged ALA members to distribute listserv messages to other listservs, commended President Obama for his prompt action on Open Government, and supported reauthorization of the Library Services and Technology Act.
Meanwhile the Washington Office coordinated a massive effort to convince the Consumer Product Safety Commission to exempt libraries from having to examine all of their children’s materials for lead and other toxic substances. By the end of conference it was clear that both of the commissioners had heard from large numbers of concerned people and that favorable action could be expected soon. The WO also reported that the new stimulus programs will likely produce little sudden change at the local level. It’s very important for libraries to stay on the “radar screens” of their legislators—tell them what we are doing to serve their communities and create a better economy. Stimulus funding will probably go through the States in an effort to shore up major programs such as Medicare and rebuilding the crumbling infrastructure.

ALA also held a special members meeting to allow librarians to make statements that they wanted President Obama to hear and consider. The following notes by Councilor Jim Casey describe it well: “This extraordinary Membership Meeting, opened to all ALA Members and with a free access microphone, was hosted by ALA President Jim Rettig and the COL Chair Kendall Wiggin. The objective was to gather as many cogent ideas as possible to present before the new Obama Administration for improvement of service to patrons and to advance the cause of lifetime learning. Ken reminded us that most of the stimulus money will probably go to the states and to existing programs. He urged that we drive a connection in our own local media efforts between jobs and the work of libraries. ----- Dozens of members came forward to speak out; there were many excellent contributions to bring forward based upon what, for many, was a lifetime of labor in the field of serving our public. The link to my full report is available on the CAL Web site http://www.cal-webs.org

ALA Members Can Submit Questions Via YouTube for ALA Pres

2008-12-30T10:10:00.000-07:00

Do you have a question you’re dying to ask the candidates for ALA President? If you can’t attend the Presidential Candidates’ Forum at Midwinter, why not submit a question on YouTube? It’s fun, it’s easy, it’s the new ALA way!

• Questions should be submitted as videos and posted to YouTube
• Maximum running time is 90 seconds
• ALA members or groups of members may submit questions using your true name(s) (anonymous submissions will not be considered)
• Video submissions must be tagged as ALAelection09 in order to be identified as questions for the ALA Presidential Candidates
• Submissions accepted from Dec. 8 through Jan. 16

Six questions will be selected by a jury of past ALA presidents and presented to the candidates. Candidates’ responses will be posted to YouTube and AL Focus prior to the opening of the ALA Election on Mar. 17. The candidates for ALA President for the 2009 election are Kent Oliver and Roberta Stevens. Questions will also be posed to any petition candidates.
For more details, go to http://www.ala.org/ala/aboutala/governance/alaelection/index.cfm
This opportunity is brought to you as one of ALA President Jim Rettig’s "Creating Connections" initiatives. For further information about Jim Rettig and his initiatives, visit http://jimrettig.org/

YALSA Offers 20 Mini Grants for Teen Tech Week

2008-12-24T12:01:00.001-07:00

Through funding from Verizon Communications, Inc., the Young Adult Library Services Association (YALSA), a division of ALA, will award up to 20 mini grants, consisting of $450 in cash and a Teen Tech Week prize pack, to members offering inventive activities, resources and programming for Teen Tech Week, March 8-14, 2009.

Visit http://www.ala.org/ala/mgrps/divs/yalsa/teentechweek/ttw09/home.cfm to read the official rules and download the application form. This contest is open only to YALSA members. Applicants for the TTW Mini Grants must submit the official application form to the YALSA office at yalsa@ala.org by January 19, 2009. Winners will be notified the week of February 9, 2008. In addition to $450 cash for the winners’ TTW plans, they’ll receive a prize pack featuring Teen Tech Week items.

Video on Traditional Cultural Expression.

2008-12-24T10:52:00.001-07:00

In November 2008 OITP hosted a conference in Washington, D.C. titled "Cultural Heritage and Living Culture: Defining The U.S. Library Position on Access and Protection of Traditional Cultural Expression." The video is posted on District Dispatch's website:
http://www.wo.ala.org/districtdispatch/?p=1134

Attention: Friends Organizations - Grant Opportunity

2008-12-24T10:33:00.001-07:00

Books for Babies Matching Grants - Stay tuned - Grant application available in January!
NEWSFLASH: Nordstrom is supporting a second year of grants! Please scroll down for the 2008 winners.
In partnership with Nordstrom, FOLUSA will be granting 20 grants for $500 each to match $1,000 raised by selected Friends groups, women's groups, libraries, and other non-profit organizations for purchasing Books for Babies kits from FOLUSA. Grant recipients do not need to be members of FOLUSA. Grant recipients do not need to be members of FOLUSA. The 2009 application will be available January 1, 2009.
Here's how it works. Applicants agree to order a minimum of $1,500 worth of Books for Babies kits, of which FOLUSA will pay $500. Therefore, the minimum commitment from applicants is $1,000. Grants will be awarded in two cycles:
Cycle 1: Applications are due April 1, 2009. Recipients will be notified by April 15, and kits must be ordered by June 1, 2009.
Cycle 2: Applications are due October 1, 2009. Recipients will be notified by October 15, and kits must be ordered by December 1, 2009.
Applicants not awarded grants in the first cycle may amend their applications and be reconsidered for the second grant cycle. Only one grant per organization.
Grants will be awarded to organizations that currently have a Books for Babies program in place as well as organizations starting a new Books for Babies program. Grant applications will be considered based on the following criteria:
Effective kit distribution plan.
Effective use of the kits to connect new parents with their local library.
Involvement of the local library.
Effective publicity plan for their Books for Babies program.
The 2009 application will be available January 1, 2009.

Need Financial Assistance for LIS Studies?

2008-12-24T10:07:00.003-07:00

The 2009 Financial Assistance for Library and Information Studies Directory is an annual directory of awards from state library agencies, national and state library associations, local libraries, academic institutions, and foundations that give some form of financial assistance for undergraduate and/or graduate LIS programs. The directory is available online. http://www.ala.org/ala/educationcareers/education/financialassistance/2009%20FALIS%20Booklet.pdf

ALA Presidential Candidates

2008-12-24T09:08:00.001-07:00

The 2010–2011 candidates for ALA President—Kenton L. Oliver and Roberta Stevens—have launched websites that describe their platforms and qualifications. Oliver is the executive director of the Stark County (Ohio) District Library, and Stevens is outreach projects and partnerships officer at the Library of Congress and project manager for the National Book Festival.

Change in date for Registration for ALA Annual

2008-12-24T09:02:00.004-07:00

The first day of registration for the 2009 ALA Annual Conference has been moved from Friday, Jan. 2 to Monday, Jan. 5. Registration for the Conference, to be held in Chicago. July 9 through July 15, will open at 8 a.m. CST on Jan. 5.

The change was made to accommodate the closing of the ALA office for the day of Jan. 2.
Beginning Jan. 5, participants can register online through the ALA Web site, by fax or by mail. Hotel reservations can also be made at this time. With the new reservation system, attendees must be registered before they can make a hotel reservation. Also that day, participants can sign up for the pre-conferences and special events. If you registered for the “Bundle,” you can go back into the system and make housing reservations, as well as sign-up for the pre-conferences and special events.

Registering early with Early Bird Registration, available until March 6, will ensure the lowest rates. Advance Registration rates are available until May 22. Limited registration is available onsite, beginning June 26. For rates listed in detail, visit
http://www.ala.org/ala/conferencesevents/upcoming/annual/2009/registration.cfm

ALA Midwinter Coming Soon!

2008-12-24T08:56:00.002-07:00

If you haven't signed up for "the premier preconference" sponsored by CAL, there's still time left - in fact, you can sign up until the day of the conference on January 23rd. Look for additional information coming out on Libnet of contact me (Shelley @ walchak_s@cde.state.co.us ) The preconference will allow discussion on the all-important OCLC study, "From Awareness to Funding."

The Event Planner is now ready to use (http://tinyurl.com/9rhyll) and includes dates, times and locations of all events. The Planner is only available to fully registered attendees. To log in, use the email address you provided when you registered, and the generic password "ala." You will be able to reset your password using the "My Profile" feature once you are logged in. If you do not remember your email or you are having trouble accessing the event planner please contact Karee Williams at kwilliams@ala.org. Fully registered attendees can create a personalized agenda and search for meeting, programs and events.

If you have an Exhibits Only or Exhibits Supreme registration, you cannot log in and create an agenda. However, you can view and search exhibitor listings and information by clicking on product locator.

National Library Legislative Day - 2009

2008-12-24T08:46:00.002-07:00

The 2009 National Library Legislative Day (NLLD) is quickly approaching and will be held on Monday, May 11th and Tuesday, May 12th at the Liaison Hotel in Washington, D.C. Please think about joining up with fellow Colorado library advocates to go to Washington and talk with our legislators about the importance of libraries. Please contact me if you have questions about NLLD. (Shelley) walchak_s@cde.state.co.us. For more information from ALA, please go here: http://tinyurl.com/95owqx

ALA Submits Report to Obama-Biden Transition Team

2008-12-24T08:24:00.002-07:00

The ALA Washington Office prepared a report on the library community’s key issues and concerns, Opening the “Window to a Larger World”: Libraries’ Role in Changing America and submitted it to the Obama-Biden Transition Team on December 17. The Washington Office hopes to continue this open dialogue with the administration over the next four years. You can link to the full report at this url:
http://www.wo.ala.org/districtdispatch/?p=1191

ALA Annual in Chicago - July 9 - 15

2008-12-17T13:55:00.002-07:00

Although Midwinter is not yet here, it's already time to start thinking about ALA Annual - this year in Chicago, and rather late - from July 9th - 15th.

Here's the information:
New- Registration Opens January 5, 2009, 8:00 am CT
ALA Annual Conference 2009
http://www.ala.org/ala/conferencesevents/upcoming/annual/index.cfm
The 2009 Annual Conference will take place in Chicago, IL July 9- July 15, 2009 at McCormick Place West located at 2301 S. Lake Shore Drive Chicago, IL 60616.
Committee and business meetings take place July 9-15, 2009 and Council Meetings run to July 15. Education programs take place primarily July 10-13, 2009. The Exhibits will be held July 11-14, 2009 at McCormick Place West. Programs and meetings will also take place at McCormick Place West and nearby hotels.
Thinking about attending conference and want to find out more about Chicago check here-City of Chicago and ALA Site

Want to be involved in Poster Sessions at ALA Annual

2008-12-01T08:47:00.004-07:00

The ALA Poster Session Committee is currently seeking volunteeers! Members are needed to shape the future of the poster sessions and participate in committee activities. Volunteers with leadership interest and potential are eagerly sought. If you are interested, please email Jody Fagan, faganjc@jmu.edu the following information:
statment of interest: why are you interested?
previous experience / participation in the ALA poster sessions and/or other organizational poster sessions
your resume/ CV
The 2009 ALA Annual Poster Sessions will be held at the ALA Annual Conference in Chicago, IL on July 11, 12, and 13, 2009 at McCormick Place West (Saturday, Sunday, and Monday of the conference).
Proposals for the 2009 Annual Conference are due on or before January 31st, 2009.
The web form, http://www.lib.jmu.edu/org/ala/form.asp is now available. Please click "How to Apply" for more details.
Authors will be notified of acceptance on or before March 31, 2009.

Do You Want to Present at ALA Annual?

2008-11-19T11:33:00.002-07:00

Do you have a great idea for an Annual Conference program but don’t belong to a committee or other group that can plan and produce a program? As part of ALA President Jim Rettig’s “Creating Connections” initiatives, you are invited to submit a proposal for a program to take place at the 2009 ALA Annual Conference July 9-15 in Chicago.
The purpose of a Grassroots Program is:
· To expand opportunity for participation in ALA by giving members who do not belong to committees or boards within ALA an opportunity to plan and produce a program at the Annual Conference
· To provide programs at the Annual Conference that address very current issues by compressing to the greatest degree possible the program planning schedule
· To enrich the variety and quality of programs at the Annual Conference.
Proposals can be submitted by a single ALA personal member or by any group of ALA members who do not serve together on a committee or board within ALA. Proposals can address any topic of interest to ALA members. Proposals must be original; they cannot replicate a program previously presented at an ALA Annual Conference, Midwinter Meeting or national divisional conference. Proposals previously submitted to a committee, board or task force in ALA, one of its divisions or one of its round tables, cannot be resubmitted
Proposals will be judged on:
Relevance of the program’s topic to ALA members and the profession at large
Timelines
Knowledge of proposed speaker(s) on the topic
Originality – i.e., the degree to which the proposed program looks at a topic in a new and fresh way or treats a topic that has not received as much attention as it deserves, either because it is very new or due to some other factor
Proposals can address ALA’s key action areas:
Diversity
Equitable Access to Information and Library Services
Education and Lifelong Learning
Intellectual Freedom
Advocacy for Libraries and the Profession
Literacy
Organizational Excellence or other areas.
A jury will select up to 10 programs to take place during the conference. The jury will be made up of members of the student ALA chapters at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and UCLA as well as several members of Jim Rettig’s presidential initiatives advisory committee.
Each selected program will be listed in the program book for the 2009 ALA Annual Conference and will be noted as being part of the Grassroots Program Track as a juried program. You are also welcome to publicize your program by whatever means you would like, but please indicate that it is part of the “Grassroots Program Track.”
Each program will be allotted a $500 budget to cover speaker costs or other expenditures.
Additional information and a submission form can be found at
http://tinyurl.com/6ntadq
Deadline for submission is Feb. 6, 2009.

Don Wood
Program Officer
Chapter Relations Office
American Libraries Association
50 East Huron Street
Chicago, IL 60466
dwood@ala.org
1-800-545-2433, ext. 2429

Nominate A Colleague or Library for a PLA Award

2008-11-14T12:43:00.002-07:00

Submit an Award Application online by December 15!

PLA Awards honor excellence in public library service by recognizing libraries and individuals whose service to the community is extraordinary. Don't wait until the last minute to apply for a PLA Award! Many awards include cash prizes and are highly competitive.
The deadline for applications is Monday, December 15. All applications must be submitted online prior to the deadline in order to be considered. Apply Online: http://tinyurl.com/5mz8eg

PLA Service Awards:
Advancement of Literacy Award honors a publisher, bookseller, hardware and/or software dealer, foundation, or similar group for a significant contribution to the advancement of literacy. Sponsored by Library Journal.
Allie Beth Martin Award of $3,000 honors a public librarian who has extraordinary range and depth of knowledge about books and library materials and the distinguished ability to share that knowledge. Sponsored by Baker & Taylor.
Charlie Robinson Award of $1,000 honors a public library director who, over a period of seven years, was a risk-taker, innovator, and change agent in a public library. Sponsored by Baker & Taylor.
Ebsco Excellence in Small and/or Rural Public Library Service Award of $1,000 recognizes a public library serving a population of 10,000 or less that demonstrates excellence of service to its community as exemplified by an overall service program or a special program of significant accomplishment. Sponsored by EBSCO Information Services.
Gordon M. Conable Award of $1,500 honors a public library staff member, library trustee, or public library that has demonstrated a commitment to intellectual freedom and the Library Bill of Rights. Sponsored by LSSI.
Highsmith Library Innovation Award of $2,000 recognizes a public library for achievement in planning and implementing a creative community service program. Sponsored by Highsmith.
Polaris Innovation in Technology John Iliff Award of $1,000 and a bouquet of roses for the workplace recognizes the contributions of a library worker, librarian, or library that has used technology and innovative thinking as a tool to improve services to public library users. Sponsored by Polaris.

PLA Grant Opportunities:
Baker & Taylor Entertatinment Audio Music/Video Product Award Grant of $2,500 in audio/music-video products for a proposal that outlines the purpose, benefits, and plan for initiating or expanding a circulating audio music/video collection. Sponsored by Baker & Taylor.

Demco New Leaders Travel Grant of up to $1,500, serves to enhance the professional development and improve the expertise of public librarians new to the field by making possible their attendance at major professional development activities. Sponsored by DEMCO.
Visit the Awards Section of the PLA website http://tinyurl.com/6q9daj for full descriptions, application information, and to apply.
Deadline for applications is December 15!

Need Help with Going to ALA Annual - Read on!

2008-11-11T15:46:00.001-07:00

Are you looking for funds to help pay for your trip to ALA Annual
2009 in Chicago? Apply by December 15, 2008 for the Shirley Olofson Memorial Award and you may receive a $1000 check to help defray the cost of attendance!
Applicants must:
1. Be a member of ALA and NMRT
2. Be active in the library profession
3. Show promise or activity in the area of professional development 4. Have valid financial need 5. Have attended no more than five ALA annual conferences
To apply, please visit:
http://www.ala.org/ala/mgrps/rts/nmrt/oversightgroups/comm/awolofson/Shirley_Olofson_Award.cfm
***************************************************
Sara
Sara Holder
Education Liaison Librarian
McGill University
(514)398-2763

YALSA's MAE Award for Best Literature Programs for Teens

2008-11-10T13:08:00.002-07:00

This award honors a YALSA member for developing an outstanding reading or literature program for young adults. Winners receive $500 and an additional $500 for their libraries. Applications for the MAE Award, along with all of YALSA’s grants and awards, are due to the YALSA office by Dec. 1.
The MAE Award for Best Literature Program for Teens is sponsored by the Margaret A. Edwards Trust.
Edwards was a well-known and innovative young adult services librarian at Enoch Pratt Free Library in Baltimore, Md., for more than 30 years. Her trust has supported many initiatives from YALSA, including the Alex Awards for adult books with teen appeal and all five rounds of the Excellence in Library Service to Young Adults project.
Criteria
-The purpose of the reading or literature program must be to bring young adults and books together and to encourage the development of life-long reading habits.
-The program must be specifically designed for and targeted at reaching young adults.
-All or part of the program must have taken place in the twelve months preceding the award deadline date of December 1.
- The applicant must work directly with young adults and be a personal member of the Young Adult Library Services Association.
-Nonwinning entries may be resubmitted in subsequent years if the program is current and ongoing and if a new application that updates the documentation is submitted.
Guidelines
1. All entries must include the application form (PDF) provided by the Young Adult Library Services Association.
2. All applicants must be current personal members of ALA/YALSA at the time the application is submitted.
3. Entries should be models of clarity and completeness.
4. The application should be e-mailed to Nichole Gilbert at ngilbert@ala.org. Questions can be directed to Nichole at 1.800.545.2433 x 4387.
5. Applications must be received no later than December 1 of the current year.

Contact:
Monique A. le Conge
Director of Library & Cultural Services
and 2008 California Library Association President
Richmond Public Library
325 Civic Center Plaza
Richmond, CA 94804
ph (510) 620-6555
fx (510) 620-6850
monique_leconge@ci.richmond.ca.us

National Medal for Museum and Library Service Award

2008-10-24T17:04:00.000-06:00

Nominate your favorite museum or library for the National Medal for Museum and Library Service (formerly the National Award) for their significant and exceptional contributions to their communities. The medal includes a $10,000 award to each recipient and an awards ceremony in Washington, DC. Deadline for 2009: February 15, 2009. Read more

The Value of Libraries

2008-10-24T16:25:00.003-06:00

ALA is putting together an effort to publicize the value of libraries during these hard times, including national op-eds, requests for additional federal funding, and resources for libraries to help get attention of the media, public, and local government.

Here are some links to some good articles.

http://tinyurl.com/56py9v
http://tinyurl.com/6nwnts
http://tinyurl.com/6owz4p

Links are all working as of today!

American Libraries Online Current Issue Now Available to ALL

2008-10-24T16:19:00.002-06:00

Our weekly e-newsletter, American Libraries Direct, is now available to anyone who wants to sign up for it, not just ALA members. The sign-up form, as well as the FAQ, is at http://www.ala.org/ala/alonline/aldirect/aldirect.cfm and login is no longer required to view the current issue of the American Libraries print magazine online (in PDF format), or to view the archives, which date back to the January 2003 issue. Go directly to http://www.ala.org/ala/alonline/alonlineebrary/alonlineebrary.cfm . First-time viewers will need to install the ebrary reader to view issues. To download, go to http://site.ebrary.com/lib/ala/Download . Firefox 3 users installing the reader for the first time will need a workaround, http://www.ebrary.com/kb/users/ff3install.jsp , to make the ebrary reader work with their browser.

ALA Midwinter Preconferences

2008-10-03T21:01:00.003-06:00

What an opportunity to attend ALA in our own state! Midwinter Conference is January 23-27th and registration is now available. If you just want to attend a preconference or the exhibits, you can! The Colorado Association of Libraries is sponsoring their own preconference and it's going to be a good one. Here's the blurb:

"The Transformational Powers of the Library: Ensuring the Future of Your Library.
Colorado Association of Libraries"
Friday, January 23, 2009, 9:00 am – 4:30 pm
Information about public library funding is presented based on research from the latest OCLC report, From Awareness to Funding. The research shows that people who experience the library as a transformational force in their lives are more likely to support tax increases to fund libraries. Listen to a panel that will highlight ways in which they are working to position their organizations as transformational and leave with some creative take-aways on aligning your advocacy and marketing efforts from Barnhart Communications.
Speakers: Cathy De Rosa, Global Vice President of Marketing, OCLC; Jenny Johnson, Executive Director of Marketing and Branding, OCLC; Jamie LaRue, Director, Douglas County Libraries; Janine Reid Director, High Plains Library District; Barnhart Communications.
Tickets: Advance: ALA Member, $100; Non-Member, $125; Student, $75.
Event Code: CO1

If you want to sign up for this or one of the 17 other preconferences being offered, here's a link to check them out: http://tinyurl.com/3ku8qz

2008 Culturally Responsive Library Services Survey Deadline

2008-10-03T13:24:00.000-06:00

DEADLINE: OCTOBER 17, 2008

The ALA Office for Literacy and Outreach Services (OLOS), the American Indian Library Association (AILA), and the National Institutes of Tribal Archives, Libraries, and Museums are seeking information on multicultural services offered by all types of libraries.

The purposes of this survey are:
1) To identify the current status of culturally responsive services in libraries;
2) To identify and study issues and challenges confronting the development of culturally appropriate services to diverse audiences;
3) To collect and disseminate information on successful programs
4) To make recommendations on possible courses of action to facilitate increased multicultural library services.
This survey is intended to be a quick assessment of services, and so your IMMEDIATE response is appreciated.

The deadline for responses is October 17, 2008, so PLEASE COMPLETE THE SURVEY AT YOUR EARLIEST CONVENIENCE. The questions are designed for easy responses. Entries received after December 17th will not be calculated. The resulting data will be posted mid-December 2008 at www.ala.org/olos.

Here is the link to the survey: http://www.esurveyspro.com/Survey.aspx?id=a0f00830-0872-425f-ad5e-1684213cf3e2

It will also be available as a direct link from the OLOS home page at www.ala.org/olos

2008-10-03T08:10:00.002-06:00

ALA President Jim Rettig has announced initiatives: one in particular allows members to be more green by participating an ALA-wide virtual poster session.
The first of two poster sessions will debut this fall called “Community Central” - to share your experiences of making your library vital in your community.
The following details are from Rettig's Web page on these issues.
To be considered for inclusion in the poster session, please send a proposal in the form of a summary of your library’s efforts, making sure to address the following points:
1. Question or problem (need not be stated as hypotheses)
2. Environmental context of the question or problem (such as public libraries, academic libraries)
3. Organizational context of the question or problem (internal services, outreach, community analysis, etc.)
4. Approaches to address the question or problem (i.e., the specific ways the library and its staff have addressed the kinds of programs and activities mentioned in the Community Central description)
5. Outcomes (details on the effects of the approaches, including data, testimonials or other evidence of community involvement)
The summary must be no longer than three pages, double-spaced (one or more photos or images may be included as part of the three pages).
The deadline for submitting proposals is Nov. 15. Approximately 25 submissions will be selected and will be available for viewing during January 2009.
Send the proposals via e-mail to Dr. John M. Budd at BuddJ@missouri.edu

Public Library Survey - Please Participate!

2008-09-16T14:55:00.001-06:00

A national survey of public library funding and technology access was mailed to public libraries in early September 2008. The survey, part of the Public Library Funding & Technology Access Study, is funded by the American Library Association and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, and conducted by researchers from Florida State University's Information Use Management and Policy Institute and the University of Maryland’s Center for Library Innovation.

Findings from the study provide public libraries, state library agencies, the American Library Association, policymakers, and others with extremely important data regarding public library computer and Internet access issues, what it takes to sustain public access computer and Internet services in your library, and the impacts of such public access services on the communities your library serves.

Information from the most recent report was used in Congressional testimony over the last week and in media outreach around the country. More information on this and previous studies dating back to 1994 is available at http://www.ala.org/plinternetfunding. Additional survey findings are available at http://www.ii.fsu.edu/plinternet.

The 2008-2009 Web-based survey may be accessed at
http://www.plinternetsurvey.org/. It has a total of 21 questions that will take you about 40 minutes to complete. PLEASE COMPLETE THE SURVEY BY NOVEMBER 7, 2008.

Many thanks for participating in the survey. If you have any questions, or need further assistance, please e-mail support@plinternetsurvey.org.

Election Year - Long Post

2008-09-05T17:58:00.000-06:00

Election Year
It’s everywhere. We are in the midst of an exciting and interesting election year. But, that means I must remind you to avoid any action that could give the impression that the American Library Association — rather than you as an individual private citizen — is engaging in “political speech” (”the support of or opposition to a candidate for public office”) or that ALA resources are being used for that purpose. ALA, because of its particular tax exempt status, is expressly, absolutely prohibited by the U.S. Internal Revenue Code from engaging in “political speech.”
What do I mean by that? “ALA resources” would include any use of ALA titles (like councilor, chair of…, president of...); ALA discussion lists, blogs or wikis (including those of ALA divisions, round tables and other groups that are part of ALA); stationery; publications or websites; headquarters or conference meeting rooms; or, staff time. And, what kinds of activities might be included in “political speech”? The law is broad — and the threshold for “political speech” is relatively low. “Political speech” includes activities such as soliciting or making campaign contributions, providing a forum for a candidate (in print or at a conference, for instance), expressing “support for or opposition to” a candidate or political party — even if that candidate is a librarian, even if that candidate is a member.
Finally, “political speech” happens within an election year — which starts January 1 of the year in which the election will be held. That’s why members often say to me, “but we had him/her speak just a few years ago.” True. Not this year, though.
The absolute prohibition on “political speech” by associations like ALA is serious — and the “zero tolerance” enforcement policy of the IRS has been upheld by the courts. It is important that the law be observed. It is also important, though, to understand that “political speech” is different from “lobbying,” which seeks to influence legislation or regulation. Even during an election year, ALA continues to lobby for legislation and regulation that will benefit libraries and the public. For instance, during recent months, you have received requests from the ALA Washington Office to contact legislators regarding appropriations, legislation in support of school libraries and other issues. There are regulations and limitations on lobbying by organizations like ALA, of course — and ALA works within the applicable laws.
Many ALA members may not be comfortable with these rules, may see them as infringements on their personal free speech. I understand that. ALA’s intent is not to limit what any individual may do personally in the public arena — but to be clear that the resources of an organization like ALA, an association tax exempt under section 501(c)(3) of the U.S. Internal Revenue Code, may not be used for that purpose. The consequence is revocation of tax exempt status. There are no “intermediate” or “warning” consequences.
Judith Krug, the long-time director of ALA’s Office for Intellectual Freedom, points out that the law imposes many restrictions on speech — and these laws are one example. We — ALA staff and members — are required to comply with these laws until such time as Congress may choose to change them. In doing so, we protect the interests of the American Library Association and its members, present and future, and ALA’s ability to advocate aggressively on behalf of libraries and the public.
Want more details? Over the past several years, a number of background documents have been developed to guide ALA leaders and staff through a complex legal environment. Four such documents are available here (PDFs): ALA Legal Framework, Election Year Rules, Election Year Rules - Additional Notes, and Lobbying and ALA: Fact Sheet.

Best Small Library in America Award

2008-08-18T13:21:00.000-06:00

Postmark deadline: November 3, 2008

Library Journal's annual award for the Best Small Library in America, cosponsored by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, was founded to encourage and showcase the exemplary work of these libraries. Now in its fifth year, the award honors the public library that most profoundly demonstrates outstanding service to populations of 25,000 or less (see attached for complete eligibility and submissions requirements).

The winning library will receive a $15,000 cash award, a feature story in the February 1, 2009, Library Journal, membership and conference costs for two library representatives to attend the Public Library Association Biannual Conference in 2010 in Portland, OR, and a gala reception at the conference. Starting with the 2009 award year, two finalist libraries will be awarded with membership and conference costs for two library representatives to attend the PLA conference and the gala reception in 2010, and they will be given special mention in Library Journal.

I Love My Librarian Award

2008-08-18T13:13:00.002-06:00

Carnegie Corporation of New York has awarded the American Library Association $489,000 to support the new Carnegie Corporation of New York/New York Times I Love My Librarian Award. Administered by the ALA's Public Information Office and Campaign for America's Libraries, the award will launch this year and will continue annually through 2013. The award encourages library users to recognize the accomplishments of librarians in public, school, college, community college and university libraries for their efforts to improve the lives of people in their community. Nominations for public librarians run from August 15 through October 1. Nominations for school and academic librarians begin September 2 and continue through October 15."In our democratic society, the library stands for hope, for learning, for progress, for literacy, for self-improvement and for civic engagement. The library is a symbol of opportunity, citizenship, equality, freedom of speech and freedom of thought, and hence, is a symbol for democracy itself," said Vartan Gregorian, president of Carnegie Corporation of New York."We're thrilled to be working with the Carnegie Corporation of New York and the American Library Association to honor librarians who play such a vital role in our communities," said Scott Heekin-Canedy, president of The New York Times. "What began as a local Times initiative in New York City seven years ago has grown to a national awards program and now we are proud to be co-presenting the award with the Carnegie Corporation of New York and the ALA.This award will continue to raise awareness of the valuable contributions of today's librarians and the ways they make a difference in people's lives and their communities, schools and campuses," said ALA President Jim Rettig. Up to 10 librarians in public, school and academic libraries will be selected each year and each will be honored at a ceremony and reception in New York at The Times Center, hosted by The New York Times. Each winner also will receive a $5,000 cash award, a plaque and a $500 travel stipend to attend the awards reception. In addition, a plaque will be given to each award winner's library. Nominees will be judged by a selection committee based on quality of service to library users, demonstrated knowledge of the library and its resources and commitment shown in helping library users. Each nominee must be a librarian with a master's degree from a program accredited by the ALA in library and information studies or a master's degree with a specialty in school library media from an educational unit accredited by the National Council for the Accreditation of Teacher Education. Nominees must be currently working in the United States in a public library, a library at an accredited two- or four-year college or university or at an accredited K-12 school.For more information, visit www.ilovelibraries.org/ilovemylibrarian.

Bundled (and therefore less expensive) Registration Coming!

2008-08-10T14:39:00.000-06:00

And just to get a bit of a jump on things, the bundled registration for the 2009 Midwinter Meeting and 2009 Summer Conference will be open September 1 - 30.
Go to http://www.ala.org/ala/eventsandconferencesb/midwinter/2009/home.cfm
for more information.

ALA Anaheim - A few More Photos

2008-08-10T14:25:00.003-06:00

Couldn't leave out CAL's infamous leader, Martin Garnar, as well as a bunch of the State Library Crew, who came to the celebration in droves. Thanks all!

ALA Anaheim - Fun Times

2008-08-10T14:20:00.002-06:00

I can hardly believe it's already been a month since annual. Annual was packed with lots of Council business, but we also managed to have some fun. Here are some photos of some of the folks who were able to make it to the Colorado get-together at the Council suite. Hope to see you in January in Denver. That will be here before we know it!

Picturing America

2008-08-10T14:19:00.000-06:00

The National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH), in cooperation with the ALA Public Programs Office, is now accepting applications for the second round of Picturing America. Online applications will be accepted through Oct. 31 at http://picturingamerica.neh.org.

Picturing America is a free educational resource that helps teach American history and culture by bringing some of our nation's greatest works of art directly to classrooms and libraries. At no cost, recipients will receive a set of high-quality reproductions of 40 pieces of great American art (each approximately 24 inches by 36 inches) and an illustrated teachers resource book with information about the artists and artwork and lesson ideas for all grade levels to facilitate the use of the reproductions in core subject areas. Delivery of these materials is scheduled for spring 2009. Additional educational resources are also available through the Picturing America Web site, http://picturingamerica.neh.gov. Resources to support public library programming will be added in the spring.

Council III

2008-07-02T09:21:00.005-06:00

The Constitution and Bylaws Committee brought forward some changes in the bylaws that were all passed. Included in the changes was the acceptance of the Association for Rural and Small Libraries and the Association of Bookmobile and Outreach Services as affiliates. The Intellectual Freedom Committee reported on the changes proposed to the newest edition of the IFC Manual. IFC submitted six revised policies including, "Access to Library Resources and Services Regardless of Sex, Gender Identity or Sexual Orientation," "Access to Resources and Services in the School Library Media Program," "Diversity in Collection Development," "Evaluating Library Collections," "Expurgation of Library Materials," "Free Access to Libraries for Minors." The International Relations Commitee made their report to Council and brought forth a resolution entitled, "Iraq Replacement Resolution," which passed. This is a replacement resolution for the one passed during Midwinter 2008 due to some inaccuracies in some of the whereas clauses. The Committee on Organization brought forth a revision in the composition of the committee, which was passed. The Committee on Legislation reported that they wanted representation from all the divisions and roundtables on the Legislative Assembly. Three resolutions were brought forward: A Resolution in Support of the National Agricultural Library, which was passed; a Resolution on the E-Governnment Reauthorization Act of 2007 (S. 2321) which urges Congress to re-emphasize it's commitment to support the role of libraries in the delivery of E-Government services; Resolution in Support of Preservation and Access to the Audio Heritage of the United States which resolves that ALA urge Members of the US Congress to charge the US Copyright Office to conduct a study on the desirability of bringing sound recordings before 2/15/72 under federal jurisdiction. All passed. A Resolution Adopting the Definitions of Digital Preservation and the Revised Preservation Policy for the ALA, which passed. Lastly, a Resolution on Expanding Council Transparency was brought forth. This Resolution asked for the Executive Director of ALA to explore methods of making Council proceedings more transparent to the ALA membership and report back to Council during midwinter. This also passed. The photo is of Jennifer Kutzik and me at a Council meeting. Jennifer is the LSSIRT (Library Support Staff Interests Roundtable) representative to Council and a long-time employee at CSU.

ALA Council I

2008-07-01T11:40:00.002-06:00

Council I included the following business:
(1) Midwinter Minutes approved (available on the ALA website.)
(2) Nominations for the Committee on Commitees and the 2008-09 Planning and Budget Assembly.
(3) Report from the Resolutions Committee.
(4) Report from ALA Executive Director including the Implementatin Report of the 2008 ALA Midwinter Meeting Council Actions
(5)The ALA Treasurer's Report.

ALA Annual Conference Council 2

2008-06-29T10:37:00.004-06:00

In Council 2 a number of motions for change in the ALA Policy Manual were presented and passed. The FY 09 budgetary ceiling was approved. A Resolution to support funding for cataloging and bibliographic control at the Library of Congress was presented and a motion was made to refer this to the Committee on Legislation, which was defeated. Opinions were strong in favor of making this forward in an expedient manner and not deferring. In the end, this resolution passed. The next Resolution introduced concerned ALA Policy Opposing Sweatshop Labor. Councilors questioned the definition of sweatshop and also whether or not this would be applied to the vendors at conferences. This resolution was passed.

Emerging Leaders Program Application Process

2008-06-04T22:23:00.000-06:00

2009 Emerging Leaders Application Process Now Open The American Library Association (ALA) is now accepting applications for the 2009 class of Emerging Leaders. Applications can be found at http://cs.ala.org/hrdr/emergingleaders/
The deadline to apply is July 31.
The program is designed to enable more than 100 new librarians to get on the fast track to ALA and professional leadership. Participants are given the opportunity to work on a variety of projects, network with peers and get an inside look into ALA structure and activities.
An ALA division, round table, ethnic affiliate, state chapter or AASL Affiliate will sponsor approximately one-third of the selected applicants. Each sponsor will contribute $1000 towards expenses ($500 for each conference). To be sponsored, apply directly to your division, chapter or round table on the application. A list of sponsoring units is included as part of the online application. You can also check with your state association and/or state chapter to find out how to apply for their sponsorship.
Sponsorship is not required for participation in the program. In order to be eligible for participation in the program, those selected must meet the following criteria:

Be under 35 years of age or be a new librarian of any age with fewer than 5 years post-MLS experience, and Have a recent MLS degree from an ALA or NCATE accredited program or be in an MLS program currently, and Be able to attend both ALA conferences and work virtually in between each, Be prepared to commit to serve on an ALA, Division, Chapter or Round Table committee, taskforce or workgroup upon completion of program, and Be an ALA member or join upon selection if not already a member.
Program information will be available and updated at: wikis.ala.org/emergingleaders. For questions or more information regarding the program, contact Beatrice Calvin at bcalvin@ala.org.

National Library Legislative Day

2008-05-27T14:53:00.004-06:00

A team of 11 Coloradoans visited the capital to lobby for libraries on May 13-14 for National Library Legislative Day. We were able to meet with representatives from the offices of all our legislators and personally with both Senator Ken Salazar and Representative John Salazar. Pictured here from left to right are Camila Alire, incoming ALA President, Carolyn Coulter and Dee Vazquez from Pikes Peak Library District, Stevan Strain (Board member) and Rochelle Logan from Douglas County Libraries, Senator Ken Salazar, Gene Hainer, Colorado State Library Director, Shelley Walchak, Colorado Chapter Councilor, Jody Howard, incoming CAL President, John Wilkinson, City of Aspen Mayor and Library Board member, Elena Rosenfeld, High Plains Library District, and Paul Mascarenas, Adams State College. (Nancy Bolt is missing from this photo.) Please contact me if you have any interest in getting involved in lobbying for libraries in your districts.

swalchak@clicweb.org

ALA 2009 Nominating Committee seeks candidates for 2009 election

2008-05-27T14:51:00.000-06:00

The American Library Association (ALA) 2009 Nominating Committee is soliciting nominees to run on the 2009 spring ballot for the offices of ALA President-elect and Councilor-at-large.
The Nominating Committee will select two candidates to run for President-elect and no fewer than 50 candidates for the 33 at-large Council seats to be filled in the 2009 spring election.
The President-elect will serve a three-year term: as President-elect in 2009-2010, as President in 2010-2011 and as Immediate Past President in 2011-2012.
The Councilors-at-large will serve three-year terms, beginning after the 2009 ALA Annual Conference and ending at the adjournment of the 2012 Annual Conference.
The ALA President and Councilors also serve in corresponding roles in the ALA-Allied Professional Association [ALA-APA]. Individuals considering ALA-APA office are encouraged to consult with their employer regarding any restrictions regarding lobbying activities or service on the governing body of a 501(c)6 organization.
ALA members who wish to make nominations should submit the following information: nominee name; present position; institution; address; telephone; fax; and e-mail address. All potential nominees must complete the Potential Candidate Biographical Form available at https://cs.ala.org/potentialcandidates . The database will be available June 2, 2008. Nominations and forms must be received no later than Sept. 1, 2008. Self-nominations are encouraged.
Nominations also may be sent to any member of the 2009 Nominating Committee. Committee members are: Susan S. DiMattia, chair, consultant, DiMattia Associates, Stamford, Conn., sdimattia@optonline.net; Rose T. Dawson, acting director, Alexandria (Va.) Library, rdawson@alexandria.lib.va.us; Timothy P. Grimes, manager, Community Relations and Marketing, Ann Arbor (Mich.) District Library, grimest@aadl.org; Susan Hildreth, state librarian, California State Library, Sacramento, Calif., shhildreth@comcast.net; Corinne M. Hill, collection development manager, Denton (Texas) Public Library; cmhill@cityofdenton.com; Pamela Spencer Holley, writer, consultant, Hallwood, Va., pamsholley@aol.com; Jo Ellen Priest Misakian, interim dean/School of Education, Fresno Pacific University, Fresno, Cailf., jmisakian@fresno.edu; Daniel O. O'Connor, professor, Rutgers University School of Communication Information & Library Studies, New Brunswick, N.J.; oconnor@scils.rutgers.edu ; and Thomas C. Wilson, associate dean, Library Technology, University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, tcwilson@ua.edu.

Help Create a Cultural Communities Fund

2008-05-18T18:53:00.000-06:00

ALA is currently in the final stages of raising funds for a matching grant from the National Endowment for the Humanities. This grant would be used by the ALA Public Programs Office (PPO) to create the Cultural Communities Fund, which would be the nation's first and only endowment to support libraries in establishing and expanding cultural programs. This would allow the PPO to have a dependable source of support for their initiatives. In the past 5 years, the PPO has provided more than $6 million in direct support to libraries across the country, including libraries in Colorado Springs (Regis University), Littleton (Chatfield HS), and Mancos (Mancos Public Library). As a state, we have already benefitted from their work, and now is our chance to secure this support for the future.

According to the terms of the NEH grant, ALA must meet a goal of $1.4 million in pledges and contributions by July 31st, 2008. They have already raised over $1 million, but need an additional $310,000 to make the goal. On behalf of ALA, I'm asking you to make a donation or pledge today. Pledges may be paid through December 31st, 2008, so if your wallet's light right now, you can still support this worthy cause by signing up now and paying later. You could even consider donating your stimulus check -- what better way to use this windfall than to support libraries! For every three dollars raised by ALA, the NEH will contribute another dollar, so we can maximize our dollars if we meet this deadline.

Unlike other pledge drives, ALA can't give you a coffee mug, and librarians already have enough tote bags (I have 12 in my office alone). However, with your support, ALA's Cultural Community Fund will be giving back to libraries for years to come. To read more about this initiative, and to pledge online, please visit http://www.ala.org/ccf.

Last Call for ALA Advanced Registration

2008-05-13T19:58:00.000-06:00

This Friday, May 16 is the deadline for the ALA Annual Conference in Anaheim (June 26-July 2)

If you haven't registered yet, make sure you don't miss out on the advanced registration rates
http://www.ala.org/ala/eventsandconferencesb/annual/2008a/home.cfm

Colorado Candidates are Elected to ALA

2008-05-03T08:37:00.004-06:00

Congratulations to Camila Alire on being elected to be ALA President!

Other Colorado Candidates elected include:
Nancy Allen, Councilor-at-Large
Brenda Bailey-Hainer, Vice-Chair/Chair Elect ASCLA
Liz Bishoff, Vice-Chair/Chair Elect ASCLA Interlibrary Cooperation and Networking Section
Merinda McLure, ACRL, IS, Secretary
Paula Miller, Vice-Chairperson, Chairperson Elect, LAMA, Fundraising and Financial Dev.
Kathy Knox, PLA, Library Development Cluster Steering Committee
Diana Reese, ASLCA, LSSPS Rep to ASCLA Board
Laura Summers, AASL, ELMSS Chair-Elect
Diane Walden, ASCLA, LSSPS, Library Service to Prisons Forum
Shelley Walchak, CLENE Board

ebrary Honors National Library Week

2008-04-09T17:40:00.000-06:00

One year, complimentary Access to Library Science E-books !

In support of National Library Week, April 13 to 19, 2008, ebrary®, a leading provider of e-content services and technology, today announced that it will provide librarians as well as students and faculty in library science and related programs with complimentary access to its Library Center for one year.

Subsidized by ebrary, the Library Center includes more than 85 full-text e-books covering topics such as digital library development, general collection development, and the history of libraries and librarianship, as well as illustrated guides from the Library of Congress. Contributing publishers include Emerald Group Publishing Limited, Idea Group, Inc., Greenwood Publishing Group, Library of Congress, and MIT Press.

To receive complimentary access, students, faculty, and librarians may register at http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=iLchAc260S528_2botn4tcig_3d_3d.
“ebrary is dedicated to serving the needs of the library community, including the next generation of librarians,” said Christopher Warnock, CEO of ebrary. “We are pleased to participate in National Library Week by providing access to a selection of relevant e-books that we hope will provide additional knowledge that students, faculty, and librarians can use today as well as in the future.”

Outreach Toolkit for the Truth About Cancer

2008-04-09T10:00:00.000-06:00

American Library Association is pleased to announce that it is working with WGBH Boston on the upcoming national outreach campaign for the film The Truth About Cancer, which will premiere on PBS April 16th at 9 p.m. (check local listings). The 90-minute documentary film, followed by a 30-minute expert panel, will be the launching pad for events and projects across the country focused on creating community conversations around cancer survivorship.

ALA and WGBH encourage libraries to reach out to their local PBS stations to collaborate with them on events surrounding this film. In addition, we hope libraries will reach out to WGBH’s national outreach partners on this project including the National Coalition for Cancer Survivorship (NCCS), Susan G. Komen for the Cure, the John Wayne Cancer Foundation, Lance Armstrong Foundation, YMCA of the USA and the Coalition of Cancer Cooperative Groups. These collaborations will provide an excellent opportunity for libraries to develop new—or strengthen existing—community partnerships, while offering a valuable service to their communities.

To assist in these outreach efforts WGBH will offer extensive online resources, including downloadable handouts are available on www.pbs.org/takeonestep. In addition, we are making available a limited number of free Outreach Toolkits including two event posters and a DVD Screener that will include 30 minutes of the film and the full expert panel to libraries that request them.

To order your Outreach Toolkit, please go to: http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/takeonestep/request.html

ACRL To Host Online Section 108 Chat

2008-04-08T18:00:00.003-06:00

The ALA Washington Office has followed developments in Section 108 for several years. Below is a notice from the Association of College and Research Libraries (ACRL) for one important venue to learn more and discuss the implications of the recently released Section 108 Report:
http://section108.gov/

Join us Tuesday, April 29, 2008 (11 a.m. Pacific 12:00 p.m. Mountain 1:00 p.m. Central 2:00 p.m. Eastern), to discuss the recently released Section 108 Study Group Report, an independent report sponsored by the U.S. Copyright Office and the National Digital Information Infrastructure and Preservation Program of the Library of Congress. ACRL OnPoint is a live series of informal monthly chat sessions that provide the opportunity to connect with colleagues and experts to discuss an issue of the day in academic and research librarianship.
Conveners: Becky Albitz, electronic resources and copyright librarian at Penn State and ACRL Copyright Committee chair; and Jim Neal, vice president for information services and university librarian at Columbia University and a member of the Section 108 Study Group.
Copyright continues to be a core interest of the higher education and academic library communities. Discuss the implications of the recommendations and findings of the Section 108 Study Group Report, released March 31, on copyright exceptions and limitations for libraries and archives. Discuss the advocacy and educational roles and responsibilities of librarians as changes to Section 108 are considered.

How does your library:
become a knowledgeable resource for your community of accurate and current information about copyright?
document the impact of changes in the copyright laws on the ability to serve users?
advocate through the political process for the public interest, as legislation arises?

Suggested background reading:
The Section 108 Study Group Report: http://section108.gov/
Ala Washington Office Section 108 Web site: http://tinyurl.com/5ssgro
“Section 108 Study Group Releases Long-Awaitied Report," LJ Academic Newswire,
April 1, 2008: http://tinyurl.com/56ldg3

NOTE: All ACRL OnPoint chats are free and open to the public. Sessions are unmoderated, 30 to 45 minutes long, and take place in a Meebo chat room. All chat sessions begin at 1 p.m. (CDT). While no registration is necessary to participate, ACRL recommends creating a quick and easy Meebo account for the best experience while participating in ACRL OnPoint discussions. Full details are available on the ACRL Web site: http://tinyurl.com/5vq5ch

National Library Week and the IRS!

2008-04-07T21:41:00.002-06:00

National Library Week is just around the corner (April 13-19)… and so is tax time! To mark these occasions, along with National Small Business Week, view an ALA podcast with the IRS’ own Kathy Petronchak, who tells listeners all about the important relationship between libraries and the IRS, the Tax Forms Outlet Program, and, in her role as SB/SE Commissioner, the strong relationship between the library and small business communities.
Key Links:
www.irs.gov/smallbiz
www.ala.org/ala/pio/natlibraryweek/nlw.cfm
www.nationalsmallbusinessweek.com
Program Length9 minutes, 57 seconds

To listen to the podcast, go to:
www.wo.ala.org/districtdispatch/?p=430
Send any feedback or questions you have to: podcast@alawash.org.

About the Music:The music in the District Dispatch Podcast is “Night Walk (Passeio Noturno),” mixed by Prof. m.Stereo and available on ccMixter. The music is used under a Creative Commons Attribution 2.5 license.

National Library Week is coming soon!

2008-04-07T19:40:00.000-06:00

ALA’s National Library Week website has resources for promoting you library including press releases, Julie Andrew’s videos, etc. Please go to:
www.ala.org/ala/pio/natlibraryweek/nlw.htm

As part of National Library Week, National Library Workers Day (April 15, 2008) is for library staff, users, administrators, and Friends groups to recognize the valuable contributions made by all library workers:
www.ala-apa.org/about/nlwd.html

Attention New ALA Annual Attendees

2008-04-02T12:58:00.001-06:00

The New Members Round Table (NMRT) Mentoring Committee is pleased to announce that they are accepting applications for their Conference Mentoring Program for the ALA Annual Conference in June!

Attending your first ALA Conference?

Overwhelmed by all the programs and events available at Annual?

Sign up for a Conference Mentor today!

The Conference Mentoring Program is open to all ALA members and is designed to connect a first time conference attendee with a 'seasoned professional' who can help them navigate the ALA Annual Conference.

If you are on your way to becoming a librarian, or are new to the profession, this program is for you!
Read about one of our NMRT Conference Mentoring success stories:
http://louisville.edu/~tlholt02/nmrt/Footnotes/august2004/genX.htm

Interested in having a Conference Mentor? For the guidelines and an online application form please visit http://www.ala.org/ala/nmrt/comm/mentoringcommittee.htm

The application deadline is May 1, 2008.

Applicants will be matched with a Conference Mentor in May and communicate via email or telephone prior to the conference and then meet
during the conference.

If you have questions, please contact the NMRT Mentoring Committee at nmrt_mentoring@yahoo.com Please feel free to share this invitation with your colleagues.

Please note that this mentoring program is not structured to provide career guidance, it is focused on issues related to the ALA Annual Conference. NMRT also offers a Career Mentoring program that will begin taking applications at the end of the summer. Please watch your email for an announcement regarding Career Mentoring later this year.

Thank you,
Veronica L. C. Stevenson-Moudamane
NMRT Mentoring Committee, Co-Chair
http://www.ala.org/nmrt

Colorado Candidates for ALA positions

2008-03-28T14:32:00.002-06:00

Please vote for Colorado Candidates in ALA! Voting is open until April 24th. Mailing of the ballot or the online voting instructions started on March 17 and will be completed March 24. If you have not received your ballot by March 31, 2008, please call ALA Membership and Customer Service at 800-545-2433 (press 5) or send an e-mail to membership@ala.org. They will confirm your voting eligibility and send you a ballot.

Camila Alire
PRESIDENT-ELECT

Nancy H. Allen
COUNCILORS-AT-LARGE

Pam Sandlian Smith
COUNCILORS-AT-LARGE

Hainer, Eugene (GENE)
AASL - PRESIDENT-ELECT

Howard, Jody K.
AASL - DIRECTOR-ELECT REGION IX

Summers, Laura L.
AASL_ELMSS ELMSS Chair-ELECt

McLure, Merinda
ACRL_IS - SECRETARY

Kellsey, Charlene
ACRL_WESS - MEMBER-AT-LARGE

Hall-Ellis, Sylvia D.
ALCTS_CCS - CHAIR (2008-2009)

Bailey-Hainer, Brenda K.
ASCLA. - VICE-CHAIR/CHAIR-ELECT

Bishoff, Liz (Lizbeth)
ASCLA_ICANS - VICE-CHAIR/CHAIR-ELECT

Reese, Diana
ASCLA_LSSPS - LSSPS REP TO ASCLA BOARD

Walden, Diane
ASCLA_LSSPS - Library Service to Prisoners ForumVICE-CHAIR/CHAIR-ELECT

Miller, Paula
LAMA_FRFDS - VICE-CHAIRPERSON/CHAIRPERSON-ELECT

Knox, Kathy
PLA. - LIBRARY DEVELOPMENT CLUSTER STEERING COMMITTEE MEMBER

Walchak, Shelley
CLENE - BOARD

Hager, Samantha
GODORT - STATE AND LOCAL DOCUMENTS TASK FORCE – SECRETARY

Sweeney, Stephen V.
IFRT - SECRETARY

EPA's Report to Congress on Libraries

2008-03-27T13:31:00.000-06:00

EPA’s Report to Congress on Libraries
Yesterday, the Environmental Protection Agency submitted its report to Congress on the state of the EPA National Library Network. The main points in the report are:
The five libraries that were closed will be reopened on or before September 30, 2008; Region 5 in Chicago, Region 6 in Dallas, Region 7 in Kansas City, the EPA Headquarters Repository and the Chemical Library in Washington, DC.
All libraries will have a librarian, appropriate staff, reference and book collections, electronic services, intelibrary loan and public access.
The Federal Library and Information Center Committee (FLICC) has formed an advisory board that is working with EPA staff, advising on strategic direction library procedures.
$1 million in appropriations will be used to reestablish libraries, collections and equipment, and for a needs assessment.
The EPA has said that it will continue to be in contact with affected stakeholders as the library plans are finalized. The Headquarters Repository and the Chemical Library in Washington, DC, will be jointly managed by the Office of Environmental Information and the Office of Prevention, Pesticides and Toxic Substances (OPPTS).

Graduate Library Science Education Programs

2008-03-27T09:49:00.002-06:00

Here is some information taken from the Colorado State Library page on Graduate Library Education. http://www.cde.state.co.us/cdelib/slinstate.htm

Contact these institutions directly for information on their scholarships and financial aid.

Approved Programs for Library Media Endorsement in Colorado

University of Colorado at Denver Health Sciences Center
School of Education & Human Development
Campus Box 106
P.O. Box 173364
Denver, CO 80217-3364
Contact: Laura L. Summers, Ph.D., School Library Program Manager
(303) 556-4911
Fax (303) 556-4479 E-mail: laura.summers@cudenver.edu
UCD Website: www.cudenver.edu

This program prepares candidates for either teacher librarian or school librarian endorsement. Teacher librarian candidates will achieve an MA in Education through the Information and Learning Technologies program.

University of Northern Colorado
Greeley, CO 80639
Contact: Dr. Kay Persichitti
McKee Hall 513
(970) 351-2913
Fax (970) 351-1622
UNC Information at www.unco.edu/coe/edtech/ orLinda Lohr, Ed.D.Assistant Professor of Educational TechnologyUniversity of Northern ColoradoGreeley, Colorado 80639 Voice: 970-351-2513Fax: 970-351-1622McKee Hall 501linda.lohr@unco.edu

Approved Programs for Library Media Endorsement in Colorado and Master of Library Science (MLS) Colorado

Emporia State University / Emporia of the Rockies
School of Library and Information Management
Lowry Campus Building #849
Health Education Center
1070 Yosemite
Denver, CO 80230
Contact:
Kelly Visnak
Director, Colorado Distance Education
School of Library and Information Management (SLIM)
303-981-0238
E-mail: kvisnak@emporia.edu

Information can be found at slim.emporia.edu/. Emporia State University Program takes approx. 2 yrs, 8 months to complete. Meets in Denver 16 weekends per year, 14 hrs per weekend, three weeks between class sessions.

University of Denver Library and Information Science Program
College of Education
2135 East Wesley Avenue
Denver, CO 80208
Contact:
Deb Grealy, Director
E-mail: dgrealy@du.edu
Information at: http://www.du.edu/LIS/

The University of Denver Library and Information Science Programs, was granted ALA Accreditation status in June 2004. The program offers a Master's Degree and Certification Programs, including an approved School Library Media Endorsement program. Classes are offered evenings and weekends. For more information call (303) 871-2747 or visit http://www.du.edu/LIS.

Information from the ALA Public Programs Office

2008-03-13T21:50:00.000-06:00

The National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) and the ALA Public Programs Office (PPO) are now accepting applications for two new traveling exhibitions.

Pride and Passion: The African American Baseball Experience
Based on a permanent exhibition at the National Baseball Hall of Fame, “Pride and Passion” tells the story of black baseball players in the U.S. over the past century and a half. Baseball is one of America’s central institutions, and it has long reflected the complicated and painful history of race in the United States. Through a cultural timeline of American history which will be part of the “Pride and Passion” exhibit, visitors will be able to place the African American baseball story into the larger context of American history. Application information can found at http://www.neh.gov/grants/guidelines/SGL_PrideAndPassion.html

John Adams UnboundThis traveling exhibition is made possible by a grant from the NEH to the Boston Public Library. “John Adams Unbound” explores Adams’s personal library – a collection of 3,500 books willed by Adams to the people of Massachusetts and deposited in the Boston Public Library in 1894. Through photo-reproductions of these annotated volumes, viewers will witness one of our Founding Fathers wrestling with intellectual and political ideas at every stage in his long life – as a boy, university student, Boston lawyer, revolutionary, diplomat, President and citizen of the early American republic. Application information can found at http://www.neh.gov/grants/guidelines/SGL_JohnAdams.html.

Librarians applying to host either of these exhibitions in their public, academic or special library must first register their institution at Grants.gov. All applications must be completed by April 4, 2008. For more information, visit www.ala.org/publicprograms.

Now accepting applications for Picturing America℠
In order to enhance the teaching, study, and understanding of American history and culture, Picturing America℠ brings some of the nation’s greatest works of art into school classrooms and public libraries. Successful applicants will receive a set of forty high-quality reproductions of American masterpieces, a teachers’ resource book and additional educational resources available at http://PicturingAmerica.neh.gov.

Applications are now being accepted for Picturing America, a project of the National Endowment for the Humanities, conducted in cooperation with the American Library Association. Applications may be submitted online at http://picturingamerica.ala.org through April 15, 2008.

Public, private, parochial, and charter schools and home school consortia (K-12), as well as public library systems and school districts, are invited to apply. Awards will be announced in May 2008 and distributed in September 2008 for display during the 2008-2009 school year and beyond. For more information about Picturing America, including a list of the artwork featured, grant guidelines, and the online application, visit http://picturingamerica.ala.org.
Grants available for “Let’s Talk About It: Love & Forgiveness”
The Public Programs Office, in collaboration with the Fetzer Institute’s Campaign for Love & Forgiveness, is now accepting applications for Let’s Talk About It: Love & Forgiveness, a theme-based reading and discussion program. Complete application information, including program guidelines and reading lists, can be found at www.ala.org/letstalk.
Let’s Talk About It: Love and Forgiveness will follow the well-established ALA reading and discussion series format “Let’s Talk About It,” using classic and contemporary literature to explore stimulating and relevant themes, including: Love and Forgiveness in the Presence of the Enemy; Love and Forgiveness in the Light of Death; and Love, Forgiveness and Wisdom. Thirty public libraries will be selected to each receive $2,500 program grants and supporting program materials. Applications are due July 15, 2008, and selected libraries will be announced in August 2008.

****************
ALA Public Programs Office
www.ala.org/publicprograms

ALA Annual Conference - Early Bird deadline on Friday March 7

2008-03-05T12:08:00.000-07:00

ALA Annual Conference in Anaheim Early Bird Deadline This Friday, March 7

Sign up by Friday to get the best discount on ALA's Annual Conference in Anaheim, California
http://www.ala.org/ala/eventsandconferencesb/annual/2008a/home.htm

Soak up the sun, and the Southern California Culture this June 26-July 2 while connecting with, and learning from
colleagues and experts from across country, and around the world.

In addition to great programs, speakers include Sally Ride, Diahann Carroll, Dean Koontz, Jamie Lee Curtis.

Spend a day volunteering for 'Libraries Build Communities'

Southern California Librarians invite you to Anaheim
http://alfocus.ala.org/videos/welcome-anaheim-ala-annual-conference-2008-preview

Being an Advocate

2008-02-29T14:23:00.000-07:00

To help ALA advocates “speak up” about the library message, the ALA Washington Office is offering a series of new resources in the coming months, including webinars, podcasts, online classes and materials to make your federal grassroots lobbying experience as easy and painless as possible. Join us for our first “Speaking Up!” webinar on Thursday March 6th at 4:00pm eastern. You can learn more and register at https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/442300631.

Why get involved?

Well, did you know that the ALA Washington Office monitors or actively lobbies for hundreds of bills that could impact the day-to-day work of all types of libraries around the country?

Or how about this: as of Feb. 18th, 2008 over 275 bills mentioning the word "library" have been introduced in this session of the U.S.
Congress?

Or, perhaps most important, that the most common question in any Member of Congress' office is, "how does this impact my district?"

Your ALA Washington Office is comprised of experienced professionals who understand the legislative process as well as the potential impact of proposed bills on the library community. They know the difference between a conference committee and a markup, a Suspension bill and a Senator, or a concurrent resolution and a special order.

But with all their knowledge, they often lack one important ingredient for success, the answer to the most important question of all, "how do proposed federal policies impact individual congressional districts and states?"

In fact, that question can best be answered by you: the individual members of ALA. We need your stories, your local expertise and your active participation to influence federal policy.

At the same time, we understand that the modern librarian plays a number of
roles: business person, advisor, community developer-even baby sitter!
Believe
it or not, learning the ins and outs of effective advocacy will make each and every one of these roles easier to manage. Whether you have five minutes, one hour or three days to devote to advocacy, you'll see its positive impact in all the work you do.

The good news is that the ALA Washington Office stands ready to assist.
Following are the top 10 things you can do to be an effective grassroots advocate – if we can help you implement any of these ideas, let us know!

1. Sign up for Library Legislative Day (more information at:
www.ala.org/nlld

2. If you can't come to DC, sign up for Virtual Library Legislative Day (more information at:
http://www.ala.org/ala/washoff/washevents/nlld/virtuallibrarylegislativeday/vlld.cfm)

Before Library Legislative Day, participate in one of our webinars (or download the recording after):

March 6th: Advocacy and the Modern Librarian: ALA Resources and Events to Help YOU Go Forth and Advocate (register at
https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/442300631)
April 16th: Preparing for Leg Day: Whether In DC or At Home, You too can be an Effective Advocate

4. Goto our online action center at http://www.capwiz.com/ala and respond to an action alert. It takes FIVE minutes!
If you aren't sure how, attend our March 6th session or download the post-session recording.

5. Take our online advocacy class at http://www.ala.org/ala/washoff/gettinginvolved/onlineadvocacy/OnlineAdvocacy.cfm

6. If you haven't already, join FLLAN, the Federal Library Legislative and Advocacy Network. More information at http://www.ala.org/fllan

7. Sign up to receive notices from the District Dispatch or ALAWON Newsletter at http://www.ala.org/ala/washoff/washnews/news.cfm.
If you prefer podcasts, have no fear-there will be plenty of them coming your way!

8. Join us after Legislative Day for more webinars on topics ranging from Building Long Term Relationships with Elected Officials to Creating Local Advocacy Campaigns to Arranging Library Tours and Visits.

9. Identify opportunities for your library to get involved in the elections-from President to your local city council there will likely be some changes. Wouldn't it be great to have library friendly folks in office? Get started by encouraging friends, trustees and board members to register to vote at www.rockthevote.org

10. Check out the resources and materials at ALA's own "Advocacy Institute." More information at http://www.ala.org/ala/issues/issuesadvocacy.htm

Why you? Only you can help Members of Congress understand that the crazy things they do in Washington,DC, directly and sometimes negatively impact local libraries.

Why now? Changes in the makeup of the U.S. Congress offer both opportunities and challenges for libraries. We will reap the benefits of opportunities (and minimize the challenges) if we all speak up-not tomorrow, not next week, not next year but now.

So what are you waiting for-get out there and advocate for libraries! You'll be glad you did.

PLEASE FEEL FREE TO FORWARD THIS EMAIL WIDELY.

Host Sunshine Week Webcast @ your library

2008-02-28T13:04:00.001-07:00

For the past several years, ALA has participated in a national Sunshine Week dialogue and webcast on access to government information, organized byOpenTheGovernment.org. This year’s webcast - Government Secrecy: CensoringYour Right to Know – will take place on Wednesday, March 19, 2008, 1:00 -2:30pm (EDT), and features a panel on privacy in the Executive Branch and a panel on how citizens can find the information they need.
To view this post in its entirety, please follow the link below: http://www.wo.ala.org/districtdispatch/?p=379

National Library Legislative Day

2008-02-20T20:33:00.000-07:00

Interested in speaking up for libraries? Why not go the extra mile for libraries and participate in National Library Legislative Day ?

What is National Library Legislative Day?
NLLD is a two-day event, held in Washington, DC, during which people who care about libraries participate in advocacy and issue training sessions, interact with Capitol Hill insiders, and visit with their Senators and Representatives to ask them to pass legislation that supports libraries.

When is National Library Legislative Day?
National Library Legislative Day (NLLD) 2008 is approaching fast; it’s May 13 and 14! (There’s also a pre-conference entitled, “Introduction to National Library Legislative Day: Why Your Participation Is Important; What to Do and How to Do it”)

Who to Contact if You Want More Information or Want to Get Involved?
Please contact:
Shelley Walchak, Colorado Chapter Councilor
swalchak@gmail.com 970-375-2510

There is financial support available for attendees.

2008 Financial Assistance for Library Studies

2008-02-16T19:52:00.000-07:00

Need additional financial assistance? The 2008 Financial Assistance for Library and Information Studies Directory is an annual directory of awards from state library agencies, national and state library associations, local libraries, academic institutions and foundations that give some form of financial assistance for undergraduate and/or graduate education programs in library and information studies. The directory is available online at http://www.ala.org/Template.cfm?Section=Scholarships&template=/ContentManagement/ContentDisplay.cfm&ContentID=167618.For information on Scholarships available through ALA, visit www.ala.org/scholarships or call the ALA Scholarship Clearinghouse at (800) 545-2433, ext. 4279.

PLA Virtual Conference - March 27-28

2008-02-16T19:07:00.000-07:00

The Public Library Association will hold its first-ever Virtual Conference March 27-28 during the association's 12th National Conference in Minneapolis. The Virtual Conference will provide public librarians and public library workers who can't make the trip an opportunity to participate in all the excitement surrounding a PLA Conference.The Virtual Conference will include many familiar elements of the live conference, including high-quality educational programming, poster sessions and networking opportunities with colleagues. Each day will feature five live programs - the same programs available to in-person conference attendees. In addition, it will feature special events, such as "A Conversation with Nancy Pearl," an interactive question-and-answer session with the living model for the librarian action figure, and "Inside the Author's Studio," a daily chat with well-known authors.Registration for the Virtual Conference is now open. Individuals who register to attend PLA 2008 in Minneapolis will automatically receive access to the Virtual Conference as part of their registration. Register for the PLA 2008 Virtual Conference at www.placonference.org.

Celebrate Teen Tech Week - March 2 - 8

2008-02-16T18:59:00.002-07:00

The Young Adult Library Services Association (YALSA), the fastest-growing division of the American Library Association (ALA), has given grant money to two Coloradoans to help during their celebration of Teen Tech Week:

Gigi Yang, Mamie Doud Eisenhower Public Library, Broomfield, Colo.
Julie Richards, Eagle Valley Library District, Gypsum, Colo.

For more information on Teen Tech Week, please visit:

http://wikis.ala.org/yalsa/index.php/Teen_Tech_Week

"Let's Talk About It" Grant Program

2008-02-16T17:01:00.000-07:00

The ALA Public Programs Office, in collaboration with the Fetzer Institute's Campaign for Love & Forgiveness, is now accepting applications for "Let's Talk About It: Love & Forgiveness," a theme-based reading and discussion program. Complete application information, including program guidelines and reading lists, can be found at www.ala.org/letstalk. The deadline for applications is July 15.

"Let's Talk About It: Love and Forgiveness" will follow the well-established ALA reading and discussion series format "Let's Talk About It," using classic and contemporary literature to explore stimulating and relevant themes. Project themes and books were chosen by national project scholar Betty Sue Flowers, Ph.D., director of the Lyndon Baines Johnson Library and Museum and former Kelleher professor of English at the University of Texas at Austin.

Following a competitive application process, 30 public libraries will be selected to receive:

* A grant of $2,500, to be used to support program costs and scholar honoraria.
* Program materials, which include introductory literature and essays on each of the themes, selections for additional reading and template promotional materials.
* Training for the library project director at a national workshop, where they will hear from the project scholar, expert librarians and organizers and receive a program planning guide, materials and ideas.

Successful applicants will be notified of their status by the end of August. For more information on "Let's Talk About It: Love & Forgiveness," visit www.ala.org/letstalk or www.loveandforgive.org.

**********************************
ALA Public Programs Office
www.ala.org/publicprograms
publicprograms@ala.org
800/545-2433, extension 5045

ACRL Explores the Future of Academic Libraries

2008-02-02T19:40:00.000-07:00

ACRL's 2007 environmental scan explores the current atmosphere in the world of academic and research libraries, along with trends that will define the future of the profession and the research environment. The report is available online (PDF file).

Newbery and Caldecott

2008-02-02T19:19:00.000-07:00

In case you missed it!
Newbery and Caldecott winners Laura Amy Schlitz, librarian at the Park School in Baltimore and author of Good Masters! Sweet Ladies! Voices from a Medieval Village, and Brian Selznick, illustrator of The Invention of Hugo Cabret, are the 2008 winners of the John Newbery and Randolph Caldecott Medals.

Post Conference Info From Midwinter 2008

2008-02-02T18:32:00.000-07:00

From ALA Direct...
"Now that we’re all recovering from Midwinter 2008, hopefully we’re also building an archive of materials from the event. We’ve started a page on the wiki for Handouts, Podcasts, and other Post Midwinter Information where you can post handouts, presentations, notes, minutes, and whatever else your committee, unit, group, etc. distributed during your meetings."
For More information:
http://discuss.ala.org/marginalia/2008/01/16/post-conference-info-from-midwinter-2008/

Congrats to Joan Light-Kraft at Montrose Library!

2008-02-02T18:28:00.000-07:00

YALSA named the winners of BWI/YALSA Collection Development Grant including Joan Light-Kraft of the Montrose Regional Library District of Montrose, Colo. This grant is administered by the Young Adult Library Services Association, the fastest-growing division of the American Library Association (ALA). Joan receives a grant of $1,000, donated by BWI, for collection development. The grant is awarded to YALSA members who represent a public library and work directly with young adults ages 12-18.

Grassroots Effort in Spokane to Support School Libraries

2008-02-01T19:12:00.000-07:00

There is a story in American Libraries about a grassroots effort in Washington State to support school libraries. It's a"grassroots movement launched last spring by three Spokane women whose determination to strengthen school libraries statewide began by combating their school board's decision to close part of a $10.8-million deficit by halving the hours of the 10 full-time K-8 teacher-librarians still employed by Washington's second-largest district." The women contacted the AASL staff who have been assisting them with information. This is the kind of vital support from parents that needs to happen. These parents get it! They understand that libraries are important and that our children need school libraries and library media specialists. I urge all of you to read the article.
http://tinyurl.com/ysshmb

Council III

2008-01-16T06:13:00.000-07:00

Three new members of the executive board were elected - a school, academic, and public librarian. They will serve a three year term starting at Annual Conference in June.

The treasurer, Rodney Hersberger gave his report, and he highlighted 4 of the programmatic priorities this year, which include (1) school library advocacy statistics inititative. (2) Diversity (3) advocacy for rural and for tribal libraries. (4) State/Chapter online network - provides 25 chapters with capwiz an online program that allows ala and the chapters to work together and mobilize grassroots support.

COO reported and introduced three motions.

(1) Establish a Council committee to work with the Advocacy office

(2) Have the president-elect report to council some demographics on the make-up of the committee on committees

(3)Restrain candidates from participating on a committee or board that could advance or appear to advance his or her candidacy.

The committee has also inititiated two groups: one on Library Assessment and and one on Gaming.

The Constitution and Bylaws Committee put forth a resolution that ALA accept the Seminar on the Acquisition of Latin American Library Materials as an affiliate, which passed. The second resolution that passed indicates that ALA accept the On-Line Audiovisual Catalogers as an affiliate. The third resolution called for an amendment to the constitution, which would allow the executive board to be charged with appointing a new officer should the elected officer not be able to serve. The fourth resolution that passed changed the constitution so that all officers and elected members of the board shall serve until the adjournment of Annual Conference.

The Intellectual Freedom committee had no action items. Trends that were reported included:

(1) NSL - 43 states have confirmed that.

(2) Censorship and Book Challenges - Alms for Jihad - an example of "libel" tourism. Settlement was out of court. The press called on libraries to pull their copies of this title. OIF put out the call that we have no obligation to do this, and most academic libraries did not do this.

(3) The Golden Compass. It reared its ugly head because of the movie. The Catholic League protested this. There was a large increase in the censorship of this book. ALA President made a timely and strong response and prevented a lot from happening.

(4)The Use of Obscenity Laws to censor literature. Teachers can be charged in court for providing "obscene" literature to their children. Parents are going to legal outlets to get charges against the teacher, and the teacher will lose their job.

(5)A Festschrigt to honor Gordon M. Conable.

New Projects

(1) They are planning a national conference on privacy as an American value.

(2)A revision of the Intellectual Freedom Manual

(3) Banned Books week was a huge success. OIF has moved into Web 2.0 through Faceback, MySpace and Flickr.

(4)The Intellectual Freedom Manual is putting together a three part series that address intellectual freedom.

(5) Lawyers for Libraries has been very successful. Over 400 lawyers trained. Colorado held this workshop in November as a pre-conference at CAL.

Committee on Legislation asked Council to pass six resolutions including one to commending the FBI "whistleblower," Bassem Youssef, for exposing abuses in the use of exigent national security letters. They were all supported. Others included a resolution to have accessible workstations available at conferences (voted for); a Resolution to end the violence in Kenya (abstained); a Resolution on the Confiscation of Iraqi Documents (voted for.)

This is the conclusion of my second Mid-winter conference, and it is truly an honor to be a part of ALA. I would encourage you to be a member and get involved. Please contact me if I can be of assistance.

ALA Council II

2008-01-15T07:20:00.000-07:00

A report from the President of the Freedom to Read foundation was given. The Freedom to Read foundation marks its 40th anniversary celebration in Chicago. A new category of membership has been established - membership now brings in $40,000 into the treasury.

The Executive Board needs to develop guidelines concerning the endorsement of ALA Presidential candidates by divisions, round tables, and other units of ALA.

BARC is studying the feasibility of shortening Council sessions so that they can end on Tuesday instead of Wednesday. Although most Councilors would like this, there are problems with other committees getting their reports to Council on time as well as already established contracts with conference venues.

Policy Monitoring Committee Report: 4 action items were passed on wording changes for the previously passed resolution, Resolution on Principles for Digital Content. This resolution can be found at http://www.ala.org/ala/washoff/oitp/digtask.cfm#prin

Recruiting Councilors: Joseph Eagan spoke to various means that would encourage more members to run as councilor including a podcast and website with FAQs. A motion was made to conclude all council business by Tuesday.

Presidential Task Force on the Graduated Dues Study. This task force identified 5 components to study this topic : survey, trends (now being done through an LSTA grant with UPENN), Due modeling, stakeholder review, and revenue impact analysis.) The full cost of all the tasks would have topped $500,000 so it was decided that they would recommend only the first step of the process, which included an in-depth membership survey. Executive Director, Keith Fiels indicated he would find the money within the current budget to accomplish the current component.

Committee on Professional Ethics. A motion to make the proposed changes on the statement of ethics was discussed. These changes are mostly grammatical, with the exception of one paragraph. (I will include a link here to the document.)

ALA/APA Council Meeting - Monday morning

2008-01-14T08:25:00.000-07:00

This is a brief 30 minute meeting. The Treasurer's report was given. APA is now paying back its loan to ALA starting with $25,000/year. The report from the Committee on Organization was given. Their first Certified Public library Administrator Program person was introduced. She was the first person in 5 years. They are going to extend the providers, do more marketing. She spoke highly of the program CPLA. Please spread the word. Lot's of work with PLA but ASLCA and LAMA need to step up on this. Committee on Salaries and Status of Library Workers. There is work going on to start a program for para-professionals (Nancy Bolt is working on this through an LSTA grant.)

The ALA store sells buttons "Libraries Work Because We Do". APA is working with AFL-CIO to open a lot of doors. National Library Workers Days is Tuesday April 15, 2008.

ALA COO (Committee on Organization): The ALA Office for Advocacy is headed by Marci Merola. Marci came to CAL Annual and held a pre-conference on Advocacy. COO voted to recommend the formation of an ALA Advocacy Committee consisting of 13 members. Separately, it was reported that the new website redesign has been placed on the web for comments with the hope that it will be released in June 2008. Starting at Midwinter 2009 (in Denver!!) ALA will require that members seeking ALA assistance in finding hotel accommodations have already registered.

ALA Council 1

2008-01-13T08:55:00.000-07:00

This meeting approved minutes from the ALA Annual in Washington. Nominations for the Council Executive Board and the Tellers Committee were announced. The final vote will be tallied and announced at ALA Council 3.

BARC (Budget analysis and Review Committee) reported that the Association finished another year in the "black". A report from the Presidential Task Force on Graduated Dues Structure (GDS) revealed that the thorough study required for assessing the implementation of GDS would cost over $500,000. There were several portions to the study. One will go forward - $45,000 for survey of members.

Reports from ALA President, Loriene Roy, President-Elect, Jim Rettig, Executive Director's Report, Keith Michael Fiels including a review of executive board actions since the 2007 Annual Conference, and implementation of the 2007 ALA annual Conference Council Actions. Any of these documents are available from me in hard copy or electronic copy.

Keith highlighted:

The graphic design for the new website is available to be reviewed, and they are looking for feedback. There is a new web usability office to help members find information, and rollout will be at annual.

They just received a Verizon literacy and gaming grant. There is a real value in promoting literacy through gaming.

ALA got a lot of press on the Patriot Act.

Highlights of Executive Board Actions

Approval of funds from the future fund to the Spectrum Scholarship Funds.

Board approved office space for Choice Magazine in Meddletown, CT. This would save the Assocation money.

There are exploring a change in the hours that vendors are here. The conference is shifting from Tuesday to Friday.

A policy concerning fairness in campaigning in regards to the costs of running for the president.

Annual Conference Document Updates. Highlights include:

Follow through of council resolutions will be more transparent.

An establishment of a taskforce on member participation

New Business:

A Resolution on member access to electronic lists of the ALA was supported in principle by most Councilors. Discussion on whether appropriate closed lists (like awards) are addressed in this resolution. The Chair of the Resolutions committee agreed with the writing of the resolution. However, the resolutation was referred for clarification. Melora Ranney Norman was the author of this resolution.

PLA Early Bird Registration is Closing Jan. 18!

2007-12-27T19:31:00.000-07:00

PLA MEMBERS: The Early Bird Deadline for PLA 2008 is Approaching!Register for the Conference Now and Save!Register by January 18, 2008 and receive special early bird pricing! Only PLA and Minnesota Library Association members can take advantage of our lowest registration fee--$180, compared to ALA members who pay $260 and non-members who pay $315.
Register for PLA 2008.

Historic Philadelphia Trolley-Loop Video

2007-12-23T16:48:00.000-07:00

For those of you going to Midwinter Conference in Philadelphia, here's a link describing the various attractions via the trolley.

Historic Philadelphia Trolley-Loop Video

Congress Directs EPA to Re-Open its Libraries

2007-12-22T15:50:00.000-07:00

Public Employees for Environmental Responsibility (PEER)
Subject: PRESS RELEASE: Congress Directs EPA to Re-Open its Libraries

For Immediate Release: Friday, December 21, 2007
Contact: Jeff Ruch (202) 265-7337 Omnibus Appropriations Bill Earmarks Money for Restoration of Library Services

Buried within the omnibus appropriations bill Congress sent this week to President Bush is a Christmas present for the beleaguered library network of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Congress ordered EPA to restore library services across the country and earmarked $3 million for that purpose, according to Public Employees for Environmental Responsibility (PEER).

Beginning in early 2006, without public announcement or congressional approval, EPA began dismantling its network of technical and research libraries. Altogether EPA has closed regional libraries serving 23 states and its headquarters library in Washington, D.C. It has also reduced services and hours in libraries covering another 14 states. In addition, EPA has shuttered several of its specialized, technical libraries, such as its unique library dedicated to the effects of pesticides and new chemicals.

The report language attached to the omnibus appropriations bill for the remainder of the 2008 fiscal year directs EPA to use $3 million to "restore the network of EPA libraries recently closed or consolidated by the Administration…" and to report within 90 days on its plans to "restore publicly available libraries to provide environmental information and data to each EPA region…"

"The EPA libraries are not only important to the public but are invaluable tools for the agency's own scientists and specialists," stated PEER Associate Director Carol Goldberg, pointing to a petition signed by the representatives for more than half of all EPA scientists protesting the closures. "While the intervention of Congress is most welcome, it comes after several closures and much disruption, leaving the remaining EPA librarians with the task of putting Humpty Dumpty back together again."

Prior to the closures, the budget for the EPA library network was $2.5 million. By earmarking $3 million, Congress increased the total library budget, allowing the agency to absorb the expense of collecting dispersed collections and replacing jettisoned facilities. For example, EPA closed its largest regional library in Chicago and sold all of its fixtures, valued at more than $40,000, for less than $350.

The rationale for the library closures was never clearly spelled out by the agency, which maintained that it wanted to digitize all of its holdings. Its original claim of cost savings did not bear up under scrutiny and clashed with the enormous expense of digitizing hundreds of thousands of documents. In addition, the agency did not anticipated copyright restrictions, which barred many of its holdings from being digitized.

"We have already been contacted by EPA librarians who are concerned that the same officials who destroyed the libraries will be in charge of their restoration," added Goldberg. "We hope that Congress continues to closely oversee whether EPA fully restores the full range of library services it had provided."

While many congressional earmarks have drawn negative attention for funding what are called "pork" projects, other earmarks act as congressional checks on executive abuses. "This is one earmark that all Americans should applaud," Goldberg concluded.

Alamosa Needled by Golden Compass

2007-12-20T09:44:00.000-07:00

The debate raging in some Canadian school dioceses over the presence of Philip Pullman’s The Golden Compass on media center shelves has expanded from Canada to the United States, where a public school in Alamosa, Colorado, briefly removed the book in November and a Catholic school in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, is in the process of reconsidering it.
It was Alamosa’s Ortega Middle School librarian Mindy Wandling who pulled the book over concerns about its age-appropriateness in November, after consulting with principal Neil Seneff. Alamosa High School librarian Mark Skinner soon found out about the removal and protested to district Superintendent Henry Herrera, who convened a meeting with school principals and librarians on December 3. Within two days, The Golden Compass was back in the Ortega collection, according to the December 11 Alamosa Valley Courier.
“I have a hard time with anyone who wants to pull a book when they haven’t read it,” Skinner said at a December 10 Adams State College public forum prompted by the incident. Forum panelist Ed Wandling, husband of the Ortega school librarian, explained that Mindy became concerned after her research on Pullman turned up an interview in the Sydney Morning Herald December 13, 2003, in which Pullman—an avowed atheist—said, “My books are about killing God.” Ed Wandling (who said he was representing his wife because she was recovering from the shock of two area shootings December 8 and 9 targeting the New Life Church where the Wandlings are staff members) added that he was not challenging the book’s literary merit but its message because it conflicts with community standards. “The American Library Association thinks I, as a parent, am the only one who can restrict what my children read. I don’t agree with that.” (From AL Direct)

Improving Head Start for School Readiness Act Passes

2007-12-20T09:39:00.000-07:00

In a victory for libraries and the cause of literacy, President Bush December 12 signed the Improving Head Start for School Readiness Act of 2007. Since 1965, Head Start has provided comprehensive child-development services to millions of low-income children and their families to promote school readiness. The bill, which reauthorizes Head Start for another five years, had passed the House by a vote of 381–36 and the Senate by 95–0 November 14.
The American Library Association advocated for language to be included in the bill that provides opportunities for libraries to play a greater role in Head Start programs. That language was included. By recognizing the important role that public and school libraries play in improving literacy and school readiness, the new law authorizes libraries to aid Head Start in “conducting reading readiness programs; developing innovative programs to excite children about the world of books, including providing fresh books in the Head Start classroom; assisting in literacy training for Head Start teachers; [and] supporting parents and other caregivers in literacy efforts.” (From AL Direct)

ALA Midwinter is Coming Soon!

2007-11-27T20:30:00.000-07:00

Midwinter conference is in Philadelphia this year from Jan. 11 - 14 at the Pennsylvania Convention Center. Lots of great events are being planned including the keynote speaker at the ALA President’s Program who will be Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, the NBA’s all-time leading scorer and a prolific author. Here's a direct link to the ALA site, which will give you a lot more information:
http://www.ala.org/ala/eventsandconferencesb/midwinter/2008/home.htm

LSTA Money Request

2007-11-13T10:15:00.000-07:00

The following letter was sent to every conferee of the Labor-HHS-Education House and Senate Appropriations Committee. The conference report did have $171.5 million for LSTA's state plans. We are currently awaiting the President's veto of this legislation.

October 25, 2007

The Honorable Lamar Alexander
302 Hart Senate Office Building
Washington DC 20510

Dear Senator Alexander :

On behalf of the 67,000 members of the American Library Association (ALA), I request that you include $171,500,000 for the Grants to State Library Agencies program within the Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) in the fiscal year 2008 Labor, Health and Human Services, Education and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill.

LSTA, the only federal program solely devoted to aiding libraries, consolidates federal library programs, while expanding services for learning and access to information resources in all types of libraries (public, school, academic, research, etc.) for individuals of all ages. It is administered by the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) and is distributed through state library agencies to individual libraries via formula grants. There is a requirement for a state match, which helps stimulate approximately $3 to $4 for every federal dollar invested.

LSTA funds are used to offer training on résumé development; help on web searches of job banks; workshops on career information; links to essential educational and community services; assistive devices for people with disabilities; family literacy classes; homework help and mentoring programs; access to government information; a forum for enhanced civic engagement, and so much more.

LSTA funds also help libraries encourage business development. Libraries serve as important links to the business community, assisting with job creation and training programs, as well as assisting with business development initiatives. For many small businesses the library provides research resources and staff they could not otherwise afford.

The President requested and the Senate recommended $171,500,000 for Grants to State Library Agencies. This funding level will allow full implementation of a 2003 law to provide a more equitable distribution of state formula grants. At this funding level, TN would receive $3,376,532 in FY 2008. If Grants to State Library Agencies is funded at this level, Congress will provide library users nationwide with improved patron access to information and library services that can be targeted to people of diverse geographic, cultural, and socioeconomic backgrounds, to individuals with disabilities, and to people with limited literacy skills.

As conferees meet to reconcile the difference between the Senate and House bills, we ask that you please support $171,500,000 for Grants to State Library Agencies.

Please do not hesitate to contact the American Library Association or me should you need any additional assistance as the appropriations process moves forward.

Sincerely,
Emily Sheketoff
Executive Director
American Library Association Washington Office

Senate Okays Public Access to Medical Research

2007-10-31T21:34:00.001-06:00

The U.S. Senate approved October 23 a measure that mandates the deposit of peer-reviewed articles researched with the support of the National Institutes of Health to be deposited into the National Library of Medicine’s PubMed Central database for public availability within 12 months of publication.
The provision is part of the Senate’s $605.5-billion version of H.R. 3043, the FY2008 appropriation for the departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education. The American Library Association’s Washington Office reports that the Senate has recommended $171.5 million of that amount for grants under the Library Services and Technology Act, which is $5 million more than the House approved in July. The two chambers must reconcile the versions, along with six other spending bills passed by both houses, before sending them to the White House.
According to the October 24 CongressDaily online news, President Bush has threatened to veto H.R. 3043 because the discretionary spending portion is some 5% more than appropriated for FY2007, compared to the 2.5% cut proposed by the administration.
The passage by the Senate was hailed by Heather Joseph of the Scholarly Publishing and Academic Resources Coalition (SPARC) as “a milestone victory [that] sets the stage for researchers, patients, and the general public to benefit in new and important ways from our collective investment in the critical biomedical research conducted by the National Institutes of Health.” First proposed in 2004 by a House subcommittee, unfettered public access to peer-reviewed research has been opposed by the publishing industry. The initial compromise struck was the 2005 establishment of a voluntary deposit program, which has yielded open access to less than 5% of the eligible medical literature, according to the Alliance for Taxpayer Access.
SPARC and ALA are among 41 groups of educators and patient and health-policy advocates that formed the Alliance in 2004.

ALA 2008 Scholarship Online Application Now Available

2007-10-31T21:32:00.001-06:00

Scholarship money is available for future librarians! The American Library Association (ALA) has more than $300,000 for students who are studying library science or school library media at the master's degree level. Scholarships typically range from $2,500 to $6,500 per student per year. The application and instructions are available on-line at www.ala.org/scholarships. The application deadline is March 1.There are many types of scholarships available for the study of librarianship. These include scholarships for students who are interested in Children's Librarianship, School Librarianship, Youth Librarianship, Federal Librarianship, and Library Automation. In addition, there are also scholarships available for minorities, persons with disabilities and for people who are already employed in libraries but do not have an MLS.To be considered for one of these scholarships, applicants must attend a masters program in library and information science that has been accredited by the ALA. Applicants interested in school library media must attend a program that meets ALA curriculum guidelines for the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE).The scholarship process is open annually from October through March. For more information, visit www.ala.org/scholarships or call the ALA Scholarship Clearinghouse at 800-545-2433, ext. 4279.

Colorado Emerging Leaders

2007-10-23T22:29:00.000-06:00

Congratulations to Colorado's two new ALA Emerging Leaders, Bethany Sewell from the University of Denver, and Reese Evenson, from Jefferson County Public Library. An initiative of ALA Immediate Past President Leslie Burger, the EL program will enable 124 librarians from across the country to participate in problem-solving workgroups, network with peers, gain an inside look into ALA structure and have an opportunity to serve the profession in a leadership capacity.
Burger said, "I am delighted that ALA is continuing the Emerging Leaders program in 2008. Last year's experience demonstrated the need for an ongoing program of this type to ensure that the next generation of association leaders has the skills and confidence it needs to lead ALA and its chapters in the coming years."

PLA Awards Applications Now Available Online

2007-09-29T11:06:00.000-06:00

PLA is now accepting applications for the 2008 PLA Awards. Members can nominate their colleagues and libraries for PLA Awards through the PLA Web site, www.pla.org. The deadline for submitting an application is December 3, 2007. Only electronic applications will be accepted.
The PLA Awards are designed to highlight the best in public library service by honoring those whose vision and accomplishments are extraordinary and deserve recognition by their peers.
PLA Awards include:
Advancement of Literacy Award, honoring a publisher, bookseller, hardware and/or software dealer, foundation or similar group (i.e. not an individual) that has made a significant contribution to the advancement of adult literacy;
Allie Beth Martin Award, honoring a librarian who, in a public library setting, has demonstrated extraordinary range and depth of knowledge about books or other library materials and has distinguished ability to share that knowledge;
Baker & Taylor Entertainment Audio Music/Video Product Award, promotes the development of a circulating Audio Music/Video collection in a public library;
Charlie Robinson Award, honors a public library director who, over a period of seven years, has been a risk taker, an innovator and/or a change agent in a public library;
DEMCO New Leaders Travel Grant, serves to enhance the professional development of public librarians new to the field by making possible their attendance at major professional development activities;
EBSCO Excellence in Small and/or Rural Library Service Award, honors a public library serving a population of 10,000 or less that demonstrates excellence of service to its community;
Gordon M. Conable Award, recognizes a public library staff member, library trustee, or public library that has demonstrated a commitment to intellectual freedom and the Library Bill of Rights;
Grow Your Own @ your library Institutional Scholarship, reimburses nine public libraries' employees' course tuition costs at the undergraduate or graduate level;
Highsmith Library Innovation Award, recognizes a library's innovative and creative service program to the community.
An award jury appointed by the PLA President will review each nomination. The award juries will review the applications and select a recipient at the ALA 2008 Midwinter Meeting. Award winners will be announced in February 2008, and each award will be presented at the PLA President's Reception and Awards Presentation held during the ALA 2008 Annual Conference. For more information, visit the PLA Awards Web page.

Last Call for PLA Results Book Camp 3 Applications

2007-09-28T15:51:00.001-06:00

Applications are still being accepted now for PLA's intensive library management training, Results Boot Camp 3, to be held October 29-November 2, 2007, in Salt Lake City. This weeklong, interactive workshop will include both individual and group activities, and will focus on current library issues using case studies describing real library situations. By the end of the week, participants will have the skills necessary to develop and implement a strategic plan in their libraries.
Boot Camp 3 will be presented by Sandra Nelson and June Garcia, both of whom have written books in the PLA Results series of publications. Participation is limited to ensure an environment that fosters group interaction and active participation. Acceptance to the Results Boot Camp 3 is competitive. Applications must be mailed or faxed to the PLA office by October 1, and applicants will be notified of their status within two weeks of submitting an application. Questions about the application process can be directed to Linda Bostrom, PLA's manager of professional development, at lbostrom@ala.org.

PLA and 3M to Hold Leadership Institute at 2008 Conference

2007-09-28T15:49:00.000-06:00

PLA and 3M, a PLA Partner, will be offering a special daylong preconference focused on developing leaders and creating transformational change agents within the library profession. Participants will learn how to set a change strategy, how to handle various challenges, and what innovations can be most productive in implementing, driving and defining change. The preconference will be held on Tuesday, March 25, preceding PLA 2008, PLA's 12th National Conference in Minneapolis.
Costs to attend the Leadership Institute are covered by 3M, including registration fees for the day, conference supplies, transportation from the Minneapolis Convention Center to 3M's "Innovation Center," lunch, snacks, and an evening reception. PLA 2008 registration costs and travel expenses, such as airfare and hotel rooms, will not be covered by 3M and are the responsibility of the participant.
A limited number of participants will be selected to attend the Leadership Institute. Applicants must be PLA members registered for the 2008 National Conference, and have at least five years of experience at a supervisory and decision-making level within their organization. Participants must submit a 250-words-or-less essay on a substantial change to be made, their role as change agent, and the effect that this change would produce for their library. An online application form is available at www.pla.org.
The deadline for applications is November 1, 2007. Candidates will be selected by PLA leadership and are not the responsibility of the sponsor, 3M. Applicants will be notified by the end of November. For more information on PLA 2008, visit www.placonference.org.