Idaho Commission for Libraries Blog http://libraries.idaho.gov/feed en Changes Coming to School Library Access Mini-Grants! http://libraries.idaho.gov/blogs/jeanniestandal/changes-coming-to-school-library-access-mini-grants <p><span style="font-size: 14px;"><strong>Big change #1:</strong> Schools that have received the Elementary School Library Access Mini-Grant will be able to apply again if it has been three years or more since you received any SLA Mini-Grant from ICfL. We are calling this one the Elementary School Library Access Mini-Grant – Round 2.&nbsp; There will be additional grant requirements for a Round 2 Grant.</span></p> <p><strong>Big change #2:</strong>&nbsp; There will not be an Elementary School Library Summer Access Mini-Grant this time.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>No change:</strong> The Elementary School Library Access Mini-Grant will remain the same and any publicly funded elementary school that serves students in kindergarten and grade 1 that has not received a Mini-Grant is eligible to apply. Eligible schools must have a library that is managed by a paid, contracted staff member.</p> <p>The application window will open by the last week of <strong>November, 2017</strong>.&nbsp; Stay tuned!</p> School Libraries Thu, 09 Nov 2017 02:07:54 +0000 Jeannie.Standal 11198 at http://libraries.idaho.gov Read to Me Rendezvous 2017: Idaho Libraries Rocked! http://libraries.idaho.gov/blogs/stacishaw/read-to-me-rendezvous-2017-idaho-libraries-rocked <p>Approximately 80 public and school library staff attended the Read to Me Rendezvous on November 2 – 3, 2017 in Boise. Because there are so many new faces in the Idaho library community, the Read to Me staff wanted to create an agenda that would benefit the wide-range of experience currently existing among those who serve children, especially pre- and beginning readers. We also wanted to bring public and school librarians together to find more ways to strengthen local partnerships which help advance third-grade reading proficiency.</p> <p>This year's Rendezvous was particularly special, because Read to Me is celebrating its 20th Anniversary. Created in 1997 by Idaho Commission for Library staff members Stephanie Bailey-White and Peggy McClendon, the goal of the Read to Me program was to support library staff in their efforts to help ensure more parents and caregivers acquire the skills and resources needed to help their children be ready to read. Much has been accomplished over the past twenty years, and ICfL staff took this opportunity to celebrate the success that has come from the hard work of many Idaho library staff and volunteers.</p> <p>Rendezvous Highlights:</p> <ul> <li><strong>First Lady Lori Otter</strong> welcomed attendees, and shared her long-time love of libraries and literacy. She praised the work being done in Idaho libraries to advance reading proficiency, and spoke about the impact Read to Me programs have made with Idaho families. We have been so fortunate to have her support over the years!</li> <li><strong>Rod Gramer</strong>, Executive Director of <strong>Idaho Business for Education</strong>, welcomed attendees on Day 2, and provided an update on the Early Learning legislation that has been drafted. Stay tuned for news of whether that bill is introduced this year, and if passed, how libraries will be impacted.</li> <li>Several sessions were offered throughout the two days. Presentation slides and handouts can be accessed at the link at the bottom of this blog. <ul> <li><strong>Julie Patricia</strong> from the Ada Community Library presented a session on <strong>baby storytimes,</strong> or "lapsit" programs. Julie also graciously shared her actual storytime slides, containing hundreds of songs, rhymes, fingerplays and other activities that Idaho library staff can customize for their own storytimes. See link below for both.</li> <li><strong>Travis Porter and Brady Kissel</strong> from the Silverstone branch of the Meridian Library District presented a session on <strong>serving homeschooled children</strong> and families. Their great ideas are included at the link below.</li> <li><strong>Patrick Bodily</strong> from ICfL, and <strong>Megan Egbert</strong> from the Meridian Library District, demonstrated the importance of <strong>evaluating library programs and measuring outcomes</strong>. This is an area with which all libraries should become more familiar and comfortable. And ICfL's <strong>Kristina Taylor</strong> shared some great tips for <strong>writing grants</strong>, from basic ICfL applications to larger competitive grants. All three presentations can be accessed at the link below.</li> <li>ICfL Youth Services Consultants <strong>Tammy Hawley-House and Staci Shaw</strong> facilitated an <strong>overview of early literacy</strong> and how to support the development of skills through library programming and storytimes. This presentation was a comprehensive overview, and if you're new to the library profession you should check out the presentation slides below.</li> <li><strong>Jane Zink</strong> from the Idaho Association for the<br /> Education of Young Children and <strong>Roger Sherman</strong> from the Idaho Children's Trust Fund led attendees through <strong><a href="https://dev.thebrainarchitecturegame.com/">The Brain Architecture Game</a></strong>, a hands-on way to learn how both positive and traumatic experiences in early childhood affect the ability to learn and grow and develop resiliency. We received a lot of great feedback about how valuable this session was for the attendees!</li> <li>Sesha Hammond, an Idaho librarian, closed out the day with an interactive session showing how early STEAM activities support beginning readers. Complete with centers, read-alouds, games, and demonstrations, Sesha shared ideas that can be used in the public library, the school library, and for out-of-school time programs.</li> </ul> </li> <li>There were two panel discussions featuring community partners. Each is listed at the link below, along with their contact information. Each one encouraged library staff to contact them about questions and partnership opportunities. <ul> <li><strong>Serving Diverse Families: Johanna Jones</strong>, from the State<br /> Department of Education's Office of Indian Education; <strong>Asmaa Albukaie</strong>, from the Agency<br /> for New Americans; and <strong>Sam Byrd,</strong> from the Centro de Comunidad y Justicia (Community Justice Center) spoke about ways in which libraries can reach out to tribal families, New Americans, and the Latino community. This was a topic we wish we had alloted more time for, and we'll keep it in the forefront to explore further.</li> <li>Summer and Out-of-School Partnerships: <strong>Angela Kraft</strong> from the State<br /> Department of Education's Child Nutrition Program, and Marie Hattaway from the Idaho<br /> Out-of-School Network spoke of ways to "Fuel the body, and fuel the mind" during out-of-school time. If your library is interested in offering meals or snacks (at no total cost to the library) please contact Angela. And be sure to check out the <a href="http://idahoafterschool.org/">Idaho Out-of-School Network's website</a> for great resources and partnership ideas.</li> </ul> </li> <li>Finally, attendees from <strong>public libraries and school libraries</strong> had some great discussions about ways to <strong>partner more effectively for summer reading</strong>. We hope to highlight these in more detail after the first of the new year, and perhaps host an online discussion to continue building those relationships. For the time-being, consider applying for the Bright Futures Outreach program "Strengthening School Partnerships." Applications open soon, and are <strong>due by March 21</strong>.</li> </ul> <p>It was wonderful to see so many new faces, as well as welcome back many familiar ones. We covered A LOT of topics in a very short time, and our goal was to make every hour worthwhile for those who took time away from work and families to join us. Personally, I think one of the best components of the Read to Me Rendezvous was the opportunity to talk and work with so many fellow library people, and to glean new ideas to take back and try. </p> <p>And the pot roast, of course.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Find presentations, handouts, contact information and more at <strong><a href="http://libraries.idaho.gov/page/read-to-me-rendezvous-2017">http://libraries.idaho.gov/page/read-to-me-rendezvous-2017</a></strong>. (To be complete by November 15)</p> Events Read to Me School Libraries Summer Reading Thu, 09 Nov 2017 00:18:07 +0000 staci.shaw 11196 at http://libraries.idaho.gov SPLAT Wants You! http://libraries.idaho.gov/blogs/dylan-baker/splat-wants-you <div class="field field-type-filefield field-field-blog-image"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <div class="filefield-file"><img class="filefield-icon field-icon-image-jpeg" alt="image/jpeg icon" src="http://libraries.idaho.gov/sites/all/modules/contrib/filefield/icons/image-x-generic.png" /><a href="http://libraries.idaho.gov/files/images/99837055.jpeg" type="image/jpeg; length=19111">99837055.jpeg</a></div> </div> </div> </div> <p>The Special Projects Library Action Team (SPLAT), sponsored by the Idaho Commission for Libraries (ICfL), has several openings to fill at the end of 2017. ICfL is currently soliciting applications from individuals working in the Idaho library community to serve a three-year term on SPLAT. We need representatives from all types of libraries, especially school libraries, from throughout the state.</p> <p>What are the criteria to serve?</p> <ol> <li>Employed by a publicly-funded library in Idaho.</li> <li>Willing to provide time to research trends and innovations in library services, as well as share that knowledge with the Idaho library community through a variety of venues.</li> <li>Have the support and approval of your supervisor, library, and/or Board of Directors.</li> <li><a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeE6OaiPrfB2Hq9zcTXq8UAZzqBGKoSLlFSW-BEWAx1diXKHQ/viewform">Complete the online application by November 30, 2017.</a></li> <li>Ability to meet 2-3 times during the year (ICfL will reimburse travel costs) – includes attending the annual Idaho Library Association meeting.</li> <li>Demonstrate a passion for librarianship, innovation, and change.</li> <li>View librarianship from a statewide perspective – the 25,000 foot level!</li> </ol> <p>The SPLAT team is composed of a diverse group of Idaho librarians. We are seeking to have representation from all geographic areas, all types of libraries, and all sizes of libraries, and individuals who are in differing stages of their career. This diversity brings strength to the group and allows the group to address the multitude of needs that are found within our highly diverse community.</p> <p>Thank you for considering this service opportunity! If you would like to discuss this opportunity further, please contact Dylan Baker by email at <a href="mailto:dylan.baker@libraries.idaho.gov">dylan.baker@libraries.idaho.gov</a> or call 208-639-4167 or 1-800-458-3271.</p> Fri, 13 Oct 2017 14:00:00 +0000 Dylan Baker 11186 at http://libraries.idaho.gov Notice of Board Meeting http://libraries.idaho.gov/blogs/dianscott/notice-board-meeting <p>A meeting of the Idaho Board of Library Commissioners will be held on Friday, October 20, 2017, at 9:00 am MT at Library! At Bown Crossing, 2153 E. Riverwalk Drive, Boise. Copies of agenda items are available from the office of the State Librarian or at <a href="http://libraries.idaho.gov/boarddoc" title="http://libraries.idaho.gov/boarddoc">http://libraries.idaho.gov/boarddoc</a>. </p> Thu, 12 Oct 2017 19:08:51 +0000 Dian.Scott 11178 at http://libraries.idaho.gov Do Overdue Fines Short-Change the Library? http://libraries.idaho.gov/blogs/jeanniestandal/do-overdue-fines-short-change-library <p>Who loves to collect overdue fines from students?&nbsp; Nobody.&nbsp; But fines are necessary, aren't they?&nbsp; And for some school libraries, aren't they a needed revenue stream?&nbsp; What if collecting the overdue fine costs more than the fine itself?&nbsp;</p> <p>In a recent conversation with a school librarian, the topic of overdue fines came up. She's done away wit them for these reasons:</p> <ul> <li>Collecting small overdue fines requires spending a lot of staff time, and using paper and toner - resulting in spending more on the administering the fine than the library would have collected.&nbsp; Of course, the largest share of the cost is staff time, and most librarians agree that they would rather be spending that time with students or on other tasks.</li> <li>Collecting fines does not encourage accountability, especially for younger students.&nbsp; Charging fines, and then suspending lending privileges because of fines owed, is, however, very effective at keeping studens away from the library.&nbsp; Paying for lost materials may be a seperate issue, but small fines for returning materials a few days late might not be the best path to accountability.&nbsp; After all, students don't come back and thank librarians for that fine that taught a crucial lesson in accountability.&nbsp; They just stop coming to the library.&nbsp; Got repeat offenders that lose most of what they check out?&nbsp; A possible solution could be an honor collection made up of donated materials that those kids can pick from.</li> <li>There is some discussion about whether charging fines is actually contrary to the mission of a library - proving access for all its patrons.&nbsp; Fines tend to negatively impact the very people we are trying the hardest to attract to the library, undoing months of effort in a single charge.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li> <li>It is an essential function of a school library to get books into the hands of kids, especially at the elementary level where students are learning to read. Those kids are mostly dependent on their parents to pay fees, and if the parents won't or can't pay, it's the kids who are penalized.</li> </ul> <p>There is another side to this argument: many school libraries depend on fines and fees as a much-needed source of funding.&nbsp; Forgiving the cost of lost materials or abandoning fees may not be feasible.&nbsp; It's a good idea, though, to run a simple cost/benefit analysis of the library's fine policy.&nbsp; It might show a change in that policy might be better for the students, the librarian, and the bottom line, making everyone happier and providing more access for students.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> School Libraries Tue, 10 Oct 2017 22:06:35 +0000 Jeannie.Standal 11175 at http://libraries.idaho.gov Boundary County Library District Named the Best in the U.S. http://libraries.idaho.gov/blogs/annjoslin/boundary-county-library-district-named-best-us <p>The Boundary County Library District (BCLD), in Bonner’s Ferry, was named the best small library in America by Library Journal magazine, the premier publication for the industry.</p> <p>This coveted award showcases the exemplary work of libraries that serve populations of fewer than 25,000. And if you’re familiar with Boundary County, or by just checking out the top of the map, you know how remote and inaccessible (especially in the winter!) the area is. </p> <p>Because of that isolation, the BCLD’s former director, Sandy Ashworth, worked hard to make the library the place in the community where residents could come for all sorts of things, from traditional to innovative. </p> <p>Sandy knew that the area’s shrinking economy, which had been based on farming and timber, needed to expand in progressive ways. And she believed the library could be at the heart of that reinvigoration. So, Sandy repurposed the library space to accommodate the technical and hands-on resources that residents would need to transform Boundary County’s future into a vibrant one.</p> <p>The library has STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) offerings from sources such as NASA, which are brought to Bonners Ferry via a wide-screen monitor that is connected to the world through Polycom. The BCLD also boasts an MIT Fab Lab, which includes a 3D printer, vinyl cutter, and milling machine. According to Sandy, on the day the milling machine arrived, “every man in town” came to the library. </p> <p>And current Library Director Craig Anderson is continuing that forward-thinking approach. “I am the next generation of Sandy’s vision,” Craig said. “I let the board know that I share that vision to take the library far beyond a traditional library.” According to Craig, the Fab Lab fires up people’s imagination and has led to a whole new demographic discovering the library.</p> <p>Whether they are holding a community-wide, Hawaiian-themed book read in the middle of winter or fostering teen entrepreneurship through a business development program, the BCLD is educating, engaging, and empowering their community in ways that are worthy of emulation -- and honor.&nbsp; </p> <p>To read the Library Journal article, please visit:&nbsp; <a title="Best Small Library in America" href="http://lj.libraryjournal.com/2017/09/lj-in-print/bestsmalllibrary2017/#_" target="_blank">http://lj.libraryjournal.com/2017/09/lj-in-print/bestsmalllibrary2017/#_</a></p> best small library best small library award Boundary County Boundary County award Boundary County Library award Library Journal award Thu, 05 Oct 2017 12:55:13 +0000 ann.joslin 11174 at http://libraries.idaho.gov Welcome Allison Floyd, ICfL's LiLI Librarian http://libraries.idaho.gov/blogs/stephanie-bailey-white/welcome-allison-floyd-icfls-lili-librarian <div class="field field-type-filefield field-field-blog-image"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <div class="filefield-file"><img class="filefield-icon field-icon-image-jpeg" alt="image/jpeg icon" src="http://libraries.idaho.gov/sites/all/modules/contrib/filefield/icons/image-x-generic.png" /><a href="http://libraries.idaho.gov/files/images/Allison-web2.jpg" type="image/jpeg; length=64914">Allison-web2.jpg</a></div> </div> </div> </div> <p>Allison Floyd recently joined the staff of the Idaho Commission for Libraries (ICfL) as the LiLI librarian. Allison will manage the statewide Libraries Linking Idaho (LiLI) program, which includes the newly revamped ShareIdaho resource sharing service. </p> <p>Allison came to the ICfL after more than two years at Albertsons Library at Boise State University, where she had the opportunity to work in several different areas, such as acquisitions, the reference desk, and library outreach. Allison has worked in public libraries in California, Idaho, and Texas. She earned her MLS degree at the University of North Texas.</p> <p>Allison said she was attracted to the role at the ICfL because, “I love the idea that I don’t work for a library, but that I work for all libraries in Idaho.” Allison added, “And this position allows me to utilize my electronic resources and cataloging experience.”</p> <p>The ceramic cup positioned next to Allison’s keyboard tells you all you need to know about who her favorite critters are . . . it proclaims her as “Cat Crazy.” Allison shares her home with Meeps, a female cat, and Spartacus, who is rumored to be afraid of his own shadow.</p> Tue, 03 Oct 2017 18:24:12 +0000 Stephanie Bailey-White 11173 at http://libraries.idaho.gov Idaho Libraries as Network Partners in American Job Centers Idaho http://libraries.idaho.gov/blogs/shirley-biladeau/idaho-libraries-network-partners-american-job-centers-idaho <p><strong>Idaho Libraries as Partners with the<br /> American Job Center</strong></p> <p>Lizard Butte Library District Idaho has taken the first step toward being a network partner the Idaho American Job Center. Recently, Janna Streibel, Director of Lizard Butte Library District, gathered four community members who met with representatives from the Idaho Department of Labor to explore opportunities to bring workforce and economic development opportunities to the Lizard Butte Library District and the community of Marsing. Through this conversation, next steps were developed and will be pursued working together with state agencies to bring services to the residents of this rural Idaho community. </p> <p>This action comes from the changes mandated by the Workforce Innovation Opportunity Act. The State of Idaho is reorganizing its delivery mechanism to increase access to workforce and economic development services for the residents of rural Idaho. This includes a wide range of services for adults, youth, dislocated workers, adult education and literacy, unemployment, and vocational rehabilitation. The Idaho Commission for Libraries is serving as a connector between libraries and the umbrella of services provided. If you would like more information on how your library might be involved in this workforce development resource, please contact Shirley Biladeau at <a href="mailto:shirley.biladeau@libraries.idaho.gov">shirley.biladeau@libraries.idaho.gov</a> or 208-639-4149. </p> Mon, 18 Sep 2017 20:14:00 +0000 Shirley Biladeau 11170 at http://libraries.idaho.gov Leadership To Make A Difference Institute - Boise http://libraries.idaho.gov/blogs/shirley-biladeau/leadership-to-make-difference-institute-boise <p>The Library Leadership Advisory Committee (LiLAC), a collaborative effort between the Idaho Commission for Libraries and the Idaho Library Association, will be hosting the second University of Idaho Extension Service Leadership To Make A Difference Institute in Boise on November 9 and 10. The two-day event will be facilitated by Kathee Tifft and Mary Schmidt. This is a beginning class focusing on<br /> leadership basics for library staff and trustees. During the two-day session, we will explore communication techniques, ideas for team building, best practices for leading effective meetings, and tools for leadership development. Past participants report developing new-found confidence to take those initial steps in their personal leadership development journey. While this session has already been filled, the plan is to host another session next spring in either Eastern or South-Central Idaho.</p> Continuing Ed leadership Mon, 18 Sep 2017 19:09:02 +0000 Shirley Biladeau 11169 at http://libraries.idaho.gov Live Better Idaho http://libraries.idaho.gov/blogs/shirley-biladeau/live-better-idaho <p>Live Better Idaho is a collaborative effort among multiple groups, including government agencies, non-profits, faith-based organizations, and other community services creating online access to available services to all Idahoans.&nbsp; Initiated by the Idaho State Department of Health and Welfare, it provides an avenue for government and non-profit organizations to provide online access to services. As a local library offering specific services for your community, explore the option of having your services listed on the site.</p> <p>Alternatively, library staff can use this web site to guide members of their community to needed services provided by local and state agencies. There are available resources for family services, education, workforce development and education, just to name a few. Go to Live Better Idaho and explore, then determine the best use of this tool for your community: <a href="https://www.livebetteridaho.org">https://www.livebetteridaho.org</a> </p> Mon, 18 Sep 2017 18:59:45 +0000 Shirley Biladeau 11168 at http://libraries.idaho.gov
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