From plib2 at webjunction.org Fri Nov 6 07:14:53 1998 From: plib2 at webjunction.org (PUBLIB) Date: Wed May 18 10:01:25 2005 Subject: [PUBLIB] Validly public library archival records (fwd) Message-ID: Sender: Don Saklad Subject: Validly public library archival records 1. What kinds of urban public library departments' archival records of the municipal library institution itself; of our urban public libraries vital contributions, achievements and accomplishments over generations to the life of constituent communities are considered validly public? 2. How about current validly public institutional archival records such as municipal public library departments' long range planning reports and related information like open meetings of our municipal public library boards. 3. If librarianship involves removing obstacles to access information or finding alternative sources for information, how can resisting, delays and denials for validly public information be reconciled? 4. If librarianship involves some degree of being nonjudgemental or a degree of discretion, where is the threshold before refusing the best quality services to public library users/customers/consumers, novice library personnel or library union collective bargaining labor relations advocates? From plib2 at webjunction.org Fri Nov 6 19:44:52 1998 From: plib2 at webjunction.org (PUBLIB) Date: Wed May 18 10:01:25 2005 Subject: [PUBLIB] Privacy of patron records (fwd) Message-ID: Sender: "Karen G. Schneider" Subject: Privacy of patron records There has been discussion on PubLib about patron confidentiality. A number of posters have commented that patron confidentiality is protected by many state statutes. Library students and others reading this list should also know that patron confidentiality is also a professional value. In addition to the values expressed in the Library Bill of Rights, patron confidentiality is also supported in several key ALA policies, including "Policy Concerning Confidentiality of Personally Identifiable Information About Library Users" and "Policy on Confidentiality of Patron Records." There is also a suggested procedure for dealing with requests for patron information. These resources are on the web at: http://www.ala.org/alaorg/oif/policies.html And be sure to see the main IF page, at http://www.ala.org/oif.html . If you haven't seen the ALA intellectual-freedom archive lately, it clearly shows the hand of current president Ann Symons, who is a strong IF advocate. There are many new resources, including an archive of state IF statements, links to First Amendment resources, and more. The other day I was talking to a reporter at a local paper about intellectual freedom (he had given very good coverage to our Banned Books Week display and Read-Aloud) and he volunteered that he was familiar with the ALA IF resources on the web and found them useful as he prepared his BBW article. That may be the best compliment of all! _________________________________________________________ Karen G. Schneider | kgs@bluehighways.com http://www.bluehighways.com Author: A Practical Guide to Internet Filters, Neal Schuman, 1997 Director, Garfield Library of Brunswick, NY garfield@crisny.org Garfield on the Web: http://www.crisny.org/not-for-profit/garfield Information is hard work ------------------------------------------------------------ From plib2 at webjunction.org Fri Nov 6 19:45:14 1998 From: plib2 at webjunction.org (PUBLIB) Date: Wed May 18 10:01:25 2005 Subject: [PUBLIB] Re: User studies: lack of awareness (fwd) Message-ID: Sender: "GraceAnne A. DeCandido" Subject: Re: User studies: lack of awareness Dear Danielle- Last year I wrote, for the Association of Research Libraries, one in the Transforming Libraries series called "After the User Survey, What Then?" It was a followup to a number of user surveys done by universities, and although it concerns academic rather than public libraries, contains some very intriguing information. The single key comment is the following: "The eight libraries whose staff agreed to be interviewed at some length here revealed a uniformity of survey results that is striking and, in one key aspect, profoundly disturbing. First, always, and most crucially, there is a persistent and widespread lack of knowledge among faculty and students alike as to programs and services the libraries already offer." Further information can be found at http://www.arl.org/transform/us/ The document is in ARL's Transforming Libraries Series. SPEC Kit 226, September 1997, After the User Survey, What Then? Hope this helps. GraceAnne DeCandido (sig file way below) 0000,0000,FF00> > I am a Master's student at the University of Tennessee, and I am working > on my thesis, which has to do with the degree of awareness that the > community has of the information and services provided by public > libraries. I was wondering if anyone out there has addressed this issue > in their user or community surveys, or knows of published research on the > subject. If you can share your survey questionnaire or a summary of > your findings I would greatly appreciate it. Also, any similar material > aimed specifically at non-users would be helpful too. Thanks in advance > for your help. > > One last thing: Please publish! Your hard work should be recognized, and > others practicing in the library community will benefit from hearing about > it. I'll get off my soapbox now. > > Danielle Green > School of Information Sciences > University of Tennessee, Knoxville > dgreen2@utk.edu > > > GraceAnne A. DeCandido Blue Roses Editorial & Web Consulting, New York City ladyhawk@well.com http://www.well.com/user/ladyhawk/gadhome.html What's Ladyhawk reading now? http://www.well.com/user/ladyhawk/books.html Wizards do not lie; words are their tool and currency, which they dare not devalue. Diane Duane from The Book of Night with Moon From plib2 at webjunction.org Fri Nov 6 19:45:51 1998 From: plib2 at webjunction.org (PUBLIB) Date: Wed May 18 10:01:25 2005 Subject: [PUBLIB] Re: EBSCO Gift Reading Service (fwd) Message-ID: Sender: Andrea Johnson Subject: Re: EBSCO Gift Reading Service (fwd) We had a few problems with this service as well. We didn't really argue while we were getting the gift subscriptions, as we are a small library and this really helped us beef up our periodicals section. The labels on the folders were pretty obnoxious, but our patrons didn't seem to mind. What was a problem was renewal; this year our gift subscription came up for renewal and some of the magazines we had counted on having were no longer being carried by EBSCO's gift service. However, when we suggested swapping them for some other titles on the "gift list" to which we were already subscribing (in other words, paying for the ones that no longer were available, and receiving some titles as gifts for which we'd previously been paying), that wasn't possible either, as our renewal for our regular subscriptions, which came up at the same time, had already been processed. EBSCO justifies changes like this by saying that the gift subscriptions aren't really supposed to be part of our core collection, but a way to give a chance to titles we might not otherwise have chosen. All fine and good, but once we've started receiving a title that our patrons like, we'd really like to be able to continue providing it, and we can't really afford to just add it to our collection out of our own budget. The whole problem went away when our donor backed out; seems that he realized there was a library in his own town that he ought to be donating to instead. :) Anyway, my point is that we had problems as well. It was nice to have the subscriptions while we could, but it's not a flawless operation. Andrea At 06:38 PM 11/5/98 -0800, Laurel Toole MWL (978) 658-2967 wrote: >Nancy-- > >We are in the processing of getting rid of oour EBSCO gift >subscriptions. We have had nothing but trouble with them. We had two >local organizations giving us magazines through this service. EBSCO was >informed (at least our EBSCO gift rep) that we would not be using the >folders because they didn't fit on our periodical shelves. We had stamps >made up and we put stickers underneath the barcodes on the back covers. >Originally, the parties involved said that was okay. Then EBSCO came >back and tried to get tough with us and say we had to use the folders. >So we said, "Fine--take back the subscriptions." At that point, EBSCO >backed down and we continued to use the stickers. >Another problem was that EBSCO picked the subscriptions and then let us >know we were getting them. They never bothered to look at our main EBSCO >list to check for duplicates. Twice we had to tell them to choose >another title. >Also, claiming missing issues is almost impossible. >Our experience? Extremely negative. We have switched our periodical >contract to EVA, and are getting our gift subscriptions through EVA--the >local organizations give us the donation, then we order the titles. Much >more satisfying. They still get the sticker on the back notifying that >this is a gift subscription. This is working out well for us. > >Laurel Toole >Wilmington Memorial Library, Wilmington, MA > Andrea Johnson, Library Director andreaj@alpha1.rpls.lib.il.us Forsyth Public Library P.O. Box 20 Forsyth, IL 62535 From plib2 at webjunction.org Fri Nov 6 19:46:08 1998 From: plib2 at webjunction.org (PUBLIB) Date: Wed May 18 10:01:25 2005 Subject: [PUBLIB] Re:OFF-SITE BOOK DROP (fwd) Message-ID: Sender: fayfl@juno.com (ann l moore) Subject: Re:OFF-SITE BOOK DROP We have an off-site book drop - in the parking lot of the bank up the street. It is emptied every morning by our custodian. We purchased canvas bags in a color different from the bags that our system uses for intrasystem delivery so we can tell which returns are from the drop. Our custodian uses his own vehicle. I would suggest that, if the proposed drop is outside, that sorting the books there would be risky because of the chances of inclement weather. We have never had any problems. Don't make it any more complicated than is absolutely necessary. Ann L. Moore, Director Fayetteville Free Library Fayetteville, NY ___________________________________________________________________ You don't need to buy Internet access to use free Internet e-mail. Get completely free e-mail from Juno at http://www.juno.com/getjuno.html or call Juno at (800) 654-JUNO [654-5866] From plib2 at webjunction.org Fri Nov 6 19:46:22 1998 From: plib2 at webjunction.org (PUBLIB) Date: Wed May 18 10:01:25 2005 Subject: [PUBLIB] Laser People/Customer 'Counters' (fwd) Message-ID: Sender: Jonelle Prether Darr Subject: Laser People/Customer 'Counters' Can anyone recommend a laser people (or customer) counter that can be installed at doors to count the number of people entering a library building? -- Jonelle Prether Darr Cumberland County Library System 158 West High Street, Carlisle PA 17013 (717) 240-6175, phone, (717) 240-7770, fax Email: ccls @epix.net Remember: The 'E' in E-Mail doesn't mean Emergency! From plib2 at webjunction.org Fri Nov 6 19:46:39 1998 From: plib2 at webjunction.org (PUBLIB) Date: Wed May 18 10:01:25 2005 Subject: [PUBLIB] Electronic reference recommendations? (fwd) Message-ID: Sender: Cameron Johnson Subject: Electronic reference recommendations? Our reference department is replacing IAC's Infotrac with a lower-cost alternative, freeing up a fairly large chunk of money. Some of the money we will use to buy more and better access to the products we have, but we would also like to add some up-to-date electronic products--either web-based or on cd-rom--that are broad-based and credible, well supported, and at a resonable price. Is anyone out there really enthusiastic about a product? We'd appreciate hearing from you. It could be legal, medical, business, literature--anything that would appeal to large segments of a diverse public-library audience. Thanks in advance for all suggestions. "Give us the tools, and we will finish the job."-- Churchill to Roosevelt in a 1941 radio broadcast. Thanks. Cameron A. Johnson From plib2 at webjunction.org Fri Nov 6 19:47:19 1998 From: plib2 at webjunction.org (PUBLIB) Date: Wed May 18 10:01:25 2005 Subject: [PUBLIB] Re: Filtering Facts Seeks Library Records (fwd) Message-ID: Sender: "Gordon Riley" Subject: Re: Filtering Facts Seeks Library Records Dear Mr. Burt, Regarding your request, we here at (your library here) would be glad to help you with your request, if you are in fact willing to pay for the cost of gathering the information you desire. However, we feel we would be remiss if we only provided you with information about people who complained. We are certain that you would also require information about those who are happy with the service we provide and the way in which we provide the service. We estimate the cost of gathering and collating the complete information at X,000,000. Please send a certified check. Sincerely, ............. From plib2 at webjunction.org Fri Nov 6 19:47:47 1998 From: plib2 at webjunction.org (PUBLIB) Date: Wed May 18 10:01:25 2005 Subject: [PUBLIB] Jenner & Block Memos to FTRF Regarding Internet and (fwd) Message-ID: Sender: "Don Wood" Subject: Jenner & Block Memos to FTRF Regarding Internet and At the 1998 Annual Conference, the FTRF Board discussed four memoranda prepared by Jenner & Block. Jenner & Block must caution that these memoranda are merely general discussions of these issues, and are not opinion letters. Because laws differ from state to state, these memoranda necessarily cannot serve as the bases for legal judgments for any library. Additionally, the law related to Internet use and filtering is changing rapidly as new legislation is adopted and new court challenges are filed. A library that offers Internet access should seek legal advice for an analysis of its own particular situation and the current laws of its own state and jurisdiction. These memoranda can be found from the Freedom to Read Foundation home page at http://www.ala.org/alaorg/oif/ftrf_home.html Application of "Community Standards" Component of Legal Obscenity Text to Librarians' Internet Communications http://www.ala.org/alaorg/oif/app_jb.html Civil and Criminal Liabilities For Libraries Related to Using or Failing to Use Internet Filtering Software or Other Content Screening Mechanisms http://www.ala.org/alaorg/oif/civil_jb.html Civil Liability for an alleged hostile work environment related to patron or employee Internet use http://www.ala.org/alaorg/oif/work_jb.html Minors' Right to Receive Information Under the First Amendment http://www.ala.org/alaorg/oif/minor_jb.html ________________________ Don Wood American Library Association Office for Intellectual Freedom 50 East Huron Street Chicago, IL 60611 800-545-2433, ext. 4225 Fax: 312-280-4227 dwood@ala.org From plib2 at webjunction.org Fri Nov 6 19:47:58 1998 From: plib2 at webjunction.org (PUBLIB) Date: Wed May 18 10:01:25 2005 Subject: [PUBLIB] Friday humor -- Fwd: Microsoft press release (fwd) Message-ID: Sender: Joe Schallan Subject: Friday humor -- Fwd: Microsoft press release Well, I guess this had to happen sooner or later . . . . J. ===========Begin forwarded message=========== FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Lucia Ashton, Public Information Officer, Microsoft, (206) 774-3766 REDMOND, Wash. (November 6, 1998) -- Microsoft Corporation today announced licensing and technology-sharing agreements with 23 biomedical research institutions and biotechnology companies participating in the Human Genome Project, the ongoing effort to entirely map the structure of the human genetic mechanism. In exchange for cash and stock totalling $24 billion, the 23 institutions and firms will grant Microsoft copyright and exclusive licensing rights to the human genome. According to Arthur Bucklaw, Microsoft's Corporate Counsel for Intellectual Property, Microsoft will begin to grant one-time licenses to all individuals engaging in a performance of the human genome -- i.e., "living" -- as soon as the US Registrar of Copyrights approves the copyright application. Microsoft will also seek to enforce its copyright of the human genome worldwide through cooperation with the United Nations' World Intellectual Property Organization, to which it will award a $6-billion grant-in-aid, according to Bucklaw. "We will aggressively enforce our intellectual property rights," Bucklaw stated, "and will protect our shareholders' interests by vigorously prosecuting individuals performing the human genome -- that is, "living" -- without having first obtained the necessary license from Microsoft. They will be asked to cease and desist until they pay the appropriate fee." Microsoft Vice-President for New Technology Edgar Ravenswood emphasized that Microsoft licensing fees will be quite reasonable. "We anticipate that we will be able to grant each individual a lifetime license to perform the genome for well under $300." He also noted that "the considerable revenue stream we expect to generate from these licenses will not only greatly increase the value of Microsoft shareholders' stake in the company, and thus benefit the US and world economies at large, but will enable the company to make intensive investments in genetic engineering." "We fully expect to be able to offer significant upgrades to the human genome to all its registered users," Ravenswood asserted. "We already have a product we will market as Microsoft Pulmonary System 1.0 in beta test," he noted. "Any registered user of the human genome who suffers from one or more of seven genetically transmitted disorders of the lung will be able to license this upgrade -- again at reasonable cost -- and have it installed via implantation of a harmless strain of E. coli genetically engineered to carry the upgraded human DNA." Both Bucklaw and Ravenswood emphasized that humans worldwide, simply by licensing the human genome from Microsoft at reasonable cost, will have ready and relatively inexpensive access to what will eventually be a large library of cures for genetic disorders. "Microsoft's aim has always been to be a company that improves the human situation as well as one that produces high return on investment," Ravenswood noted. From plib2 at webjunction.org Fri Nov 6 19:48:52 1998 From: plib2 at webjunction.org (PUBLIB) Date: Wed May 18 10:01:25 2005 Subject: [PUBLIB] Re: David Burt and public records (fwd) Message-ID: Sender: Filtering Facts Subject: Re: David Burt and public records Susan Gegenhuber wrote: > Hi, >Why not just ignore him? He's looking for ways to support his own >argument, and let him go out and find them himself. If he hasn't brought >you to court and subpoenaed your records officially, then there is >absolutely no reason to respond. >IMHO - only. >Susan Gegenhuber >Principal Librarian, Community Services >Pasadena Public Library Based on my reading of Califorina law, I believe that you are both a "local agency" and that complaints are "public records", and I do not need a "subpoenae" to obtain your records, but we will see. So I'll add Pasadena PL to my list, and this will be a learning experience for both of us. ;-> http://www.leginfo.ca.gov/cgi-bin/waisgate?WAISdocID=942709063+0+0+0&WAISact ion=retrieve CALIFORNIA CODES GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION 6250-6270 6250. In enacting this chapter, the Legislature, mindful of the right of individuals to privacy, finds and declares that access to information concerning the conduct of the people's business is a fundamental and necessary right of every person in this state. 6251. This chapter shall be known and may be cited as the California Public Records Act. (b) "Local agency" includes a county; city, whether general law or chartered; city and county; school district; municipal corporation; district; political subdivision; or any board, commission or agency thereof; other local public agency; or nonprofit organizations of local governmental agencies and officials which are supported solely by public funds. (d) "Public records" includes any writing containing information relating to the conduct of the public's business prepared, owned, used, or retained by any state or local agency regardless of physical form or characteristics. "Public records" in the custody of, or maintained by, the Governor's office means any writing prepared on or after January 6, 1975. *Under the exceptions are "(c) Personnel, medical, or similar files, the disclosure of which would constitute an unwarranted invasion of personal privacy." So redact the personal info, and send 'em to me. ***************************************************************************** David Burt President, Filtering Facts Website: http://www.filteringfacts.org E-Mail: David_Burt@filteringfacts.org Phone/Fax: 503 635-7048 From plib2 at webjunction.org Fri Nov 6 19:54:55 1998 From: plib2 at webjunction.org (PUBLIB) Date: Wed May 18 10:01:25 2005 Subject: [PUBLIB] Services to the disadvantaged (fwd) Message-ID: Sender: Mary Torgeson Subject: Services to the disadvantaged Our library system is looking to providing services to the disadvantaged, which is being defined mainly as low income, as the big umbrella. We have done a search through standard professional journals, but that probably does not cover everything that is happening out there in public libraries. My question: what traditional services (or non-traditional outreach) is being done in or out of the library? While many of us have computer labs in our libraries, or provide access, are there libraries that are providing any special technology services, either alone or in partnership with other agencies? < From plib2 at webjunction.org Mon Nov 9 09:46:39 1998 From: plib2 at webjunction.org (PUBLIB) Date: Wed May 18 10:01:25 2005 Subject: [PUBLIB] Sick leave (fwd) Message-ID: Sender: "Judy J. Atwood" Subject: Sick leave What incentives does your library use to encourage staff to conserve their sick leave? Judy J. Atwood Material Services Coordinator Athens-Clarke County Library 2025 Baxter St Athens, GA 30606 (706) 613-3650 atwoodj@mail.clarke.public.lib.ga.us From plib2 at webjunction.org Mon Nov 9 09:46:52 1998 From: plib2 at webjunction.org (PUBLIB) Date: Wed May 18 10:01:25 2005 Subject: [PUBLIB] Public Libraries in the Year 2004 (fwd) Message-ID: Sender: Wolinsky Subject: Public Libraries in the Year 2004 Our library board is working on the library's five year plan. Each department head has been asked to come up with a description of how we envision our department in the year 2004. We were asked to be creative, but not detailed. We don't have to say how we'll achieve our vision. My view for the reference department includes things like routine Interent reference service, laptops for in-house use in library study carrels that are wired for the network (and Internet), e-books, and our reference staff routinely including web sites in their collection development areas of specialization. Doing this exercise made me wonder what you envision. Any thoughts? Judi ===================================================================== Judi Wolinsky Reference/Technology Director 17917 Dixie Highway Homewood Public Library District Homewood, IL 60430 wolinsky@interaccess.com v: 708-798-0121 x 230 http://homepage.interaccess.com/~homewood fax: 708-798-0662 From plib2 at webjunction.org Mon Nov 9 09:47:22 1998 From: plib2 at webjunction.org (PUBLIB) Date: Wed May 18 10:01:25 2005 Subject: [PUBLIB] EBSCO gift magazine program (fwd) Message-ID: Sender: MARLA@orion.mtgr.mtlib.org Subject: EBSCO gift magazine program My library tried this about 8 years ago and it was nothing but trouble. Even tho' the gift rep assured me that no duplicates would be chosen (I went through the list with him and picked alternate titles to the ones we already had), we got allthe duplicates anyway. Claiming was a joke; they ignored any correspondance. When the "regular" EBSCO reps. came through, I let them know how disappointed I was was with the program. I can remember one of the reps. saying that he has nothing to do with the gift program and he has passed on the complaints to the "powers that be" and they didn't seem to care either. So, I guess, it's buyer/donee beware. You might pick up something you didn't have before, but there are strings attached. (We still have the folders but have since razored the advertisement protion out so we can use them for other titles.) I would be VERY cautious before signing up for this program again. BYE! Marla/Great Falls Public Library/Acquisitions 301 2nd Ave N Great Falls, MT 59401-2593 marla@orion.mtgr.mtlib.org From plib2 at webjunction.org Mon Nov 9 09:48:10 1998 From: plib2 at webjunction.org (PUBLIB) Date: Wed May 18 10:01:25 2005 Subject: [PUBLIB] Scents in the library (fwd) Message-ID: Sender: Elizabeth Urbanik Subject: Scents in the library Greetings, I have a problem I'd like your comments on. Two of our staff members are allergic to the entire planet, almost. About three years ago, the entire staff both here and at all branches, was told not to wear perfumes, scented soaps, or to use heavily scented shampoos, conditioners, hair sprays, deodorants, etc. Except for the usual instance of someone trying a new product and then being told it was too scented, we've done okay. The two members are, on occasion, reluctant to tell other staff that they are smelling something, because at one point it was beginning to get harrassing, to everyone. Well, it's started again, but this time just one staff member is being questioned -- me. One of these two women now works out of her home, but the other one, who is not as allergic to substances as the other, has been questioning me for a week on what I've been wearing. I narrowed it down to two possibilities -- a new blush and a new deodorant. It wasn't the blush, but the deo, which I no longer use at work. However, she still insists that I'm wearing something which is causing her reaction -- mostly an itchy face, but today a stuffy nose. My question is, how far can staff be asked to go in changing their lives to fit the problems of another? I would add that this woman's husband smokes heavily and she lives on a farm, so she is exposed to a lot of allergens both here and at home. We can't stop our patrons from coming in with perfumes, but we have said that staff cannot wear them, and we haven't. How have other libraries dealt with this? I'm at the point where my sympathy is beginning to plummet. Except for face makeup, I've been using the same products for months or years, with no complaint, and as for the face makeup, there is another staff member who wears the same stuff, and she's not been questioned, so I'm assuming it's not that. Thank you, Elizabeth Urbanik Pittsylvania County Library Chatham, VA -- From plib2 at webjunction.org Mon Nov 9 23:50:42 1998 From: plib2 at webjunction.org (PUBLIB) Date: Wed May 18 10:01:25 2005 Subject: [PUBLIB] Anyone using I-Gear filter software? (fwd) Message-ID: Sender: Peter Bromberg Subject: Anyone using I-Gear filter software? Hi, Anyone using I-Gear filtering software willing to share your experience with it? Many thanks, -pete -- Peter Bromberg, Head of Reference Camden County Library, Voorhees, NJ peter@camden.lib.nj.us http://www.camden.lib.nj.us "There has been an alarming increase lately in the number of things about which I know absolutely nothing" -Terence McKenna (paraphrasing Ashleigh Brilliant?) From plib2 at webjunction.org Mon Nov 9 23:50:54 1998 From: plib2 at webjunction.org (PUBLIB) Date: Wed May 18 10:01:25 2005 Subject: [PUBLIB] scheduling software (fwd) Message-ID: Sender: "McCabe, Deborah" Subject: scheduling software We're now in need of a software program for staff scheduling. I think I've seen a thread here on this subject, so if someone could tell me how to look at the archives, I'd appreciate it. Or, if you want to reply directly, that would be nice, too. Thanks, **************************************************************************** ****** Deborah M. McCabe, Public Services Librarian Portage County Public Library, 1001 Main St., Stevens Point, WI 54481 715-346-1296; fax 715-346-1239 **************************************************************************** ****** From plib2 at webjunction.org Mon Nov 9 23:51:21 1998 From: plib2 at webjunction.org (PUBLIB) Date: Wed May 18 10:01:25 2005 Subject: [PUBLIB] Re: Sick leave (fwd) Message-ID: Sender: Nann Blaine Hilyard Subject: Re: Sick leave > What incentives does your library use to encourage staff to conserve their sick leave? Well, if an employee claims sick leave, isn't sick, and gets caught then s/he may be fired. I haven't had to deal with that. Generally the libraries where I've worked have been so short staffed that the problem is making staff stay home when they're sick. Or, they're saving their sick leave for maternity leave (five babies were born to staff members in the four years I was at my previous library, and two of those staff are pregnant now). Nann **************************** Nann Blaine Hilyard Lake Villa District Library Lake Villa, Illinois **************************** From plib2 at webjunction.org Mon Nov 9 23:51:34 1998 From: plib2 at webjunction.org (PUBLIB) Date: Wed May 18 10:01:25 2005 Subject: [PUBLIB] Re: Newspapers (fwd) Message-ID: Sender: Ellen Bell Subject: Re: Newspapers We keep our newspapers lying flat on shelves. We have had to remove the help wanted sections from all the papers and keep them behind the reference desk. Otherwise, they walk off. -- O:-D Ellen Bell, Blue Ridge Regional Library P.O. Box 5264, Martinsville, VA 24115 Phone: 540/632-7125 x 224 FAX: 540/632-1660 From plib2 at webjunction.org Mon Nov 9 23:51:50 1998 From: plib2 at webjunction.org (PUBLIB) Date: Wed May 18 10:01:25 2005 Subject: [PUBLIB] Union Meetings (fwd) Message-ID: Sender: Malverne Public Library Subject: Union Meetings Hi I would like to know if anyone has a procedure in place with regard to staff and union meetings held in the library. On staff time, or not on staff time. Pay for meetings on staff time/not on staff time. Youi can reply tO Malverne@lilrc.org Thank You J.Kelleher, Director From plib2 at webjunction.org Mon Nov 9 23:52:26 1998 From: plib2 at webjunction.org (PUBLIB) Date: Wed May 18 10:01:25 2005 Subject: [PUBLIB] Re: Filtering Facts seeks library records responses (fwd) Message-ID: Sender: DAVE EWICK Subject: Re: Filtering Facts seeks library records responses Dear Publibbers: Below is one example of several responses published on this listserve that just prove David Burt's premise that censorship is relative, and is practiced by those very librarians who believe that they are non-censors. His request for information is appropriate, legitimate, and very useful to the profession if we truly want to look at this issue rationally. Yes, his position is not liked by many, but isn't that the very thing we espouse, that it doesn't matter who wants something, and it doesn't matter why they want it, and we don't have to like them? Why would you rather provide pornography to a teen than this info to Mr. Burt? Snide comments and evasions belittle the profession and the writer. If you truly believe in the first amendment, and that it applies to libraries, then you must present the information requested without editorial comment. I believe that libraries are a privilege, not a right. The internet is a boon to libraries and a nuisance. We have NO desire in our library to provide everything the internet offers. We limit use by time, by age, and by content through WebSense. Part of the limits stem from wanting to serve as many people as possible with limited resources, and requiring parents to sanction what their children are doing on it. We ahve the ability to unblock any site we are asked about that a patron feels was inappropriately blocked. We have unblocked several sites, and have added a few blocks. This is not a solution I would force on any other library, but it works for us. I know most of you disagree. That is your right. Our community has set it's standard, and we have had no complaints about it other than young teenage boys disappointed that they are not allowed to look up naked women & some satanic sites online. As an aside, many areas of Indiana have NO LIBRARY SERVICE, at the desire of those living there to keep tax rates low. I think they're misguided at best, but we must abide by their wishes until & unless state law changes. Hey, if you want to be able to call libraries like ours censors, then make sure your own library isn't guilty of it first. Put your money where your mouth is & send David Burt the info he requests at a reasonable rate in a reasonable timeframe without editorial comments degrading him or his organization. Dave Ewick Original post: Date: Fri, 6 Nov 1998 16:47:19 -0800 (PST) From: "Gordon Riley" ; To: publib ; Subject: Re: Filtering Facts Seeks Library Records Message-ID: ; Dear Mr. Burt, Regarding your request, we here at (your library here) would be glad to help you with your request, if you are in fact willing to pay for the cost of gathering the information you desire. However, we feel we would be remiss if we only provided you with information about people who complained. We are certain that you would also require information about those who are happy with the service we provide and the way in which we provide the service. We estimate the cost of gathering and collating the complete information at X,000,000. Please send a certified check. Sincerely, ............ Fulton County Public Library voice: 219-223-2713 320 West 7th Street fax: 219-223-5102 Rochester, IN 46975 http://fulco.lib.in.us mailto:dave.ewick@usa.net ____________________________________________________________________ Get free e-mail and a permanent address at http://www.netaddress.com/?N=1 From plib2 at webjunction.org Mon Nov 9 23:52:50 1998 From: plib2 at webjunction.org (PUBLIB) Date: Wed May 18 10:01:25 2005 Subject: [PUBLIB] Re: Sick leave (fwd) Message-ID: Sender: David Biek Subject: Re: Sick leave This could be a no-win situation if your library doesn't budget for payouts. If a person who conserved a lot of sick leave quits or retires, the cost of paying the cash value for the leave could prevent you from quickly refilling the position. David Biek Manager, Main Library Tacoma Public Library 1102 Tacoma Ave S Tacoma, WA 98467 253-565-5471 dbiek@tpl.lib.wa.us --- my opinions only --- On Mon, 9 Nov 1998, Judy J. Atwood wrote: > What incentives does your library use to encourage staff to conserve their > sick leave? > Judy J. Atwood > Material Services Coordinator > Athens-Clarke County Library > 2025 Baxter St > Athens, GA 30606 > (706) 613-3650 > atwoodj@mail.clarke.public.lib.ga.us > > > > From plib2 at webjunction.org Mon Nov 9 23:53:09 1998 From: plib2 at webjunction.org (PUBLIB) Date: Wed May 18 10:01:25 2005 Subject: [PUBLIB] Re: Laser People/Customer 'Counters' (fwd) Message-ID: Sender: Bryan Davis Subject: Re: Laser People/Customer 'Counters' We have recently purchased a unit from: Autotron PO Box 420 Danville, IL 61834-0420 800-637-2648 FAX 217-446-9676 Model A878R We haven't had it very long, but it looks industrial strength. It was about $578 as I recall which is more that we have paid in the past. But the ones we have used before have all broken down. This company seems to make this kind of thing for factories, so the engineering seems good. The man I talked with on the phone said this model is very popular with libraries. =bd= At 4:56 PM -0800 11/6/98, Jonelle Prether Darr wrote: >Can anyone recommend a laser people (or customer) counter that can >be installed at doors to count the number of people entering a library >building? >-- >Jonelle Prether Darr > Cumberland County Library System > 158 West High Street, Carlisle PA 17013 > (717) 240-6175, phone, (717) 240-7770, fax > Email: ccls @epix.net >Remember: The 'E' in E-Mail doesn't mean Emergency! ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Bryan Davis,Assistant Director & Boss Geek Cedar Rapids Public Library davis@crpl.cedar-rapids.lib.ia.us 500 First Street SE 319-398-5145 Ext. 223 Cedar Rapids, Iowa 52401 USA Fax 319-398-0476 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Always move forward. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ From plib2 at webjunction.org Mon Nov 9 23:53:18 1998 From: plib2 at webjunction.org (PUBLIB) Date: Wed May 18 10:01:25 2005 Subject: [PUBLIB] Job Posting (fwd) Message-ID: Sender: CARRICK Sandy M Subject: Job Posting Reference Librarian 1/11 (Part-time) Eugene Public Library $1,296-$1,793/mo The City of Eugene is seeking an energetic, motivated librarian to assist in providing reference services. Responsibilities include answering patron reference questions, providing bibliographic instruction,, collection development, and performing bibliographic searches using ULISYS, OCLC, DIALOG, and CD-ROM products. Requires a Master of Library Science from an ALA-accredited program, an Oregon driver's license, and some reference experience is desirable. CLOSING DATE: December 4, 1998. Obtain application packet from Human Resource and Risk Services, 777 Pearl Street, Room 101, Eugene, Oregon 97401. The City of Eugene values diversity in its work force and is committed to affirmative action. Out-of-area residents may request application packet by calling (541) 682-5061 or e-mailing at (application.requests@ci.eugene.or.us). From plib2 at webjunction.org Mon Nov 9 23:53:44 1998 From: plib2 at webjunction.org (PUBLIB) Date: Wed May 18 10:01:25 2005 Subject: [PUBLIB] Re: Scents in the library (fwd) Message-ID: Sender: gwgov@juno.com Subject: Re: Scents in the library I'm amazed that it's gone this far! Why would fellow employees (and presumably volunteers) be told to change the products that they use on their bodies at home? It's certainly not the same as smoking or applying perfume in the staff room or another public area. This woman's sensitivities have followed each and every staffer home. She's essentially along on every visit to the department store and the drug store, guiding which personal hygiene products are purchased. Not only that, but somehow, someone has given her the right to quiz fellow workers on these personal issues as well. This policy is unfair to other employees, especially as, by all appearances, management has sanctioned harassment. I believe it's fair to ask employees to refrain from using perfume sprays in the presence of someone who's allergic, but when employees are asked to alter their normal behavior off-site (eg, limiting their choices as consumers), the scales have tipped too far in the wrong direction. As someone who has allergies, I would dearly love to live and work in a protected environment - but it's an imperfect world. My allergies, their manifestation and treatment, are my problem, not the staff's. Gloria Goverman, Director ~ gwgov@juno.com Town of Pelham Public Library, Pelham, NY 914 738-1234 ~ fax 914 738-0809 ___________________________________________________________________ You don't need to buy Internet access to use free Internet e-mail. Get completely free e-mail from Juno at http://www.juno.com/getjuno.html or call Juno at (800) 654-JUNO [654-5866] From plib2 at webjunction.org Mon Nov 9 23:54:03 1998 From: plib2 at webjunction.org (PUBLIB) Date: Wed May 18 10:01:25 2005 Subject: [PUBLIB] RE: Sick leave (fwd) Message-ID: Sender: sgegenhuber@ci.pasadena.ca.us Subject: RE: Sick leave We have been in the practice of begging and pleading, but I recently learned that sick leave is an employee right (I think in FLSA) and the employer has no business limiting when it can be taken. If sick people are keeping you from providing service, than you have an understaffing problem. Susan Gegenhuber Principal Librarian, Community Services Pasadena Public Library 285 E. Walnut St. Pasadena, CA 91101 626-744-4069 sgegenhuber@ci.pasadena.ca.us > ---------- > From: Judy J. Atwood > Sent: Monday, November 09, 1998 6:47 AM > To: Multiple recipients of list > Subject: [PUBLIB] Sick leave > > What incentives does your library use to encourage staff to conserve their > sick leave? > Judy J. Atwood > Material Services Coordinator > Athens-Clarke County Library > 2025 Baxter St > Athens, GA 30606 > (706) 613-3650 > atwoodj@mail.clarke.public.lib.ga.us > > > From plib2 at webjunction.org Mon Nov 9 23:54:20 1998 From: plib2 at webjunction.org (PUBLIB) Date: Wed May 18 10:01:25 2005 Subject: [PUBLIB] scents in the library (fwd) Message-ID: Sender: sgegenhuber@ci.pasadena.ca.us Subject: scents in the library Hi, I wanted to respond, but accidentally deleted the original message. Here's an idea, I don't know if it will work. Consider her allergies as a disability. Have her doctor identify what they are, and request accomodation (via ADA) in the workplace. A long bout of expensive allergy testing may cure her. Or, have her file a Worker's Compensation claim, and let them find out just how much of her problem is work-related. - Susie G. Susan Gegenhuber Principal Librarian, Community Services Pasadena Public Library 285 E. Walnut St. Pasadena, CA 91101 626-744-4069 sgegenhuber@ci.pasadena.ca.us From plib2 at webjunction.org Mon Nov 9 23:54:53 1998 From: plib2 at webjunction.org (PUBLIB) Date: Wed May 18 10:01:25 2005 Subject: [PUBLIB] Re: David Burt and public records (fwd) Message-ID: Sender: sgegenhuber@ci.pasadena.ca.us Subject: Re: David Burt and public records Our City Attorney has approved our policy about patron confidentiality. First, just why exactly do you want our records and to disturb our business? Ken LaCorte just lost the race for State Assembly, he had a "censorhip" issue with the library and absolutely nobody responded to his plea for help. Secondly, we handled the two or three complaints we had according to our policy, and I don't believe we kept records. Once a patron issue is resolved, we let it go. Susan Gegenhuber Principal Librarian, Community Services Pasadena Public Library 285 E. Walnut St. Pasadena, CA 91101 626-744-4069 sgegenhuber@ci.pasadena.ca.us > ---------- > From: Filtering Facts > Sent: Friday, November 06, 1998 5:01 PM > To: Multiple recipients of list > Subject: [PUBLIB] Re: David Burt and public records > > Susan Gegenhuber wrote: > > Hi, > >Why not just ignore him? He's looking for ways to support his own > >argument, and let him go out and find them himself. If he hasn't brought > >you to court and subpoenaed your records officially, then there is > >absolutely no reason to respond. > > >IMHO - only. > >Susan Gegenhuber > >Principal Librarian, Community Services > >Pasadena Public Library > > Based on my reading of Califorina law, I believe that you are both a > "local > agency" and that complaints are "public records", and I do not need a > "subpoenae" to obtain your records, but we will see. So I'll add > Pasadena > PL to my list, and this will be a learning experience for both of us. ;-> > > http://www.leginfo.ca.gov/cgi-bin/waisgate?WAISdocID=942709063+0+0+0&WAISa > ct > ion=retrieve > > CALIFORNIA CODES > GOVERNMENT CODE > SECTION 6250-6270 > > 6250. In enacting this chapter, the Legislature, mindful of the > right of individuals to privacy, finds and declares that access to > information concerning the conduct of the people's business is a > fundamental and necessary right of every person in this state. > > 6251. This chapter shall be known and may be cited as the > California Public Records Act. > > (b) "Local agency" includes a county; city, whether general law or > chartered; city and county; school district; municipal corporation; > district; political subdivision; or any board, commission or agency > thereof; other local public agency; or nonprofit organizations of > local governmental agencies and officials which are supported solely > by public funds. > > (d) "Public records" includes any writing containing information > relating to the conduct of the public's business prepared, owned, > used, or retained by any state or local agency regardless of physical > form or characteristics. "Public records" in the custody of, or > maintained by, the Governor's office means any writing prepared on or > after January 6, 1975. > > *Under the exceptions are "(c) Personnel, medical, or similar files, the > disclosure of which would constitute an unwarranted invasion of personal > privacy." So redact the personal info, and send 'em to me. > > ************************************************************************** > *** > David Burt President, Filtering Facts > Website: http://www.filteringfacts.org > E-Mail: David_Burt@filteringfacts.org > Phone/Fax: 503 635-7048 > > From plib2 at webjunction.org Mon Nov 9 23:55:11 1998 From: plib2 at webjunction.org (PUBLIB) Date: Wed May 18 10:01:25 2005 Subject: [PUBLIB] Re: Laser People/Customer 'Counters' (fwd) Message-ID: Sender: Mark Rose Subject: Re: Laser People/Customer 'Counters' We have used Mark Walker people counters with good success. I have found the company to be responsive and helpful. Rather than sell me new equipment they have provided simple repair instructions. Many of the Library equipment catalog companies resell the Mark Walker product. While they do not have a WWW page, they can be reached at 765-644-2425. Mark A. Rose mrose@colosys.net Assistant Director 970-243-4783 Mesa County Public Library District FAX 243-4744 Grand Junction, Colorado From plib2 at webjunction.org Mon Nov 9 23:55:33 1998 From: plib2 at webjunction.org (PUBLIB) Date: Wed May 18 10:01:25 2005 Subject: [PUBLIB] NHLA Resolution: http://www.state.nh.us/nhla/filters.htm (fwd) Message-ID: Sender: "Don Wood" Subject: NHLA Resolution: http://www.state.nh.us/nhla/filters.htm The New Hampshire Library Association's resolution on filtering can be found at http://www.state.nh.us/nhla/filters.htm FYI ALA is in the process of converting its Web pages for a new look and more efficiency. Staff has been asked not to create or update pages for at least two weeks. ________________________ Don Wood American Library Association Office for Intellectual Freedom 50 East Huron Street Chicago, IL 60611 800-545-2433, ext. 4225 Fax: 312-280-4227 dwood@ala.org From plib2 at webjunction.org Mon Nov 9 23:55:49 1998 From: plib2 at webjunction.org (PUBLIB) Date: Wed May 18 10:01:25 2005 Subject: [PUBLIB] Video boxes "squeeze" type (fwd) Message-ID: Sender: Patricia Belcastro Subject: Video boxes "squeeze" type We recently switched to using "squeeze type" video cases (it is a clear plastic case; to release the video, you squeeze the bottom sides of the case and the video slides out). We like the case for its durability and attractiveness (patron can see the entire info on the video's cardboard case which slides into the clear video case). However, we are receiving complaints that the "squeezing motion" required to slide the video out is causing difficulty for people who are even slightly arthritic in the hands (comments are coming both from our Circ staff and older patrons). Has any other library using the squeeze type video case encountered similar comments? If yes, have you found a creative solution? Thanks in advance for your help. -- Patricia Belcastro Deputy Director, Rocky River Public Library 1600 Hampton Road Rocky River, OH 44116-2699 (440) 333-7610 voice ext. 216; 333-3219 tty; 333-4184 fax belcaspa@oplin.lib.oh.us http://www.rrpl.org From plib2 at webjunction.org Mon Nov 9 23:56:08 1998 From: plib2 at webjunction.org (PUBLIB) Date: Wed May 18 10:01:25 2005 Subject: [PUBLIB] Medical Information Provided by Public Libraries (fwd) Message-ID: Sender: MelBuck@aol.com Subject: Medical Information Provided by Public Libraries I am interested in collection development issues regarding health/medical resources in public libraries(ie. what types of materials are best to have on hand & what type of staff training is done to answer patrons' questions regarding these materials). Melanie Buckingham, MLIS student at UNC- Greensboro. From plib2 at webjunction.org Mon Nov 9 23:56:53 1998 From: plib2 at webjunction.org (PUBLIB) Date: Wed May 18 10:01:25 2005 Subject: [PUBLIB] Scents in the library (fwd) Message-ID: Sender: Terry Dawson Subject: Scents in the library Regardless of what ADA says about the technicality, the problem of hypersensitivity clearly seems to be a sort of disability issue, assuming it is backed by appropriate medical documentation. The doctrine of "reasonable accommodation" seems to come into play here. Is it reasonable to ask 100 people to change their clothes, makeup, lifestyle, detergent, etc? Most likely not. Is it reasonable to ask one or two? Perhaps, and a tough call for a supervisor, who should talk to the parties involved and find out what the options are. At our library, we were approached a couple of years ago by a parent who told me that their child could not come to the library as long as we had vinyl balloons present. Now, balloons are not an everyday thing, but people do get balloon bouquets and we occasionally decorate with balloons or give them as children's prizes. I was skeptical and felt the parent was likely overstating the case, but a bit of research demonstrated that such sensitivity is a serious and growing problem in society. We banned such balloons and have recently noticed that they are not allowed in local hospitals either. Mylar balloons are fine, though. Point being that things change, and things that may seem innocuous or taken for granted may be a bad idea. Heck, lots of us used to smoke in the office. Now *there* was a nasty fight ... smoking in the office was completely normal. And wrong. A lot of people suffered while we learned better. -- "Only |Terry Dawson, Director |tdawson@apl.org |"Information connect!" |Appleton Public Library|http://www.apl.org| WANTS to |225 North Oneida Street|920 832-6170 voice| be free." E.M.Forster|Appleton WI 54911 |920 832-6182 fax | S. Brand From plib2 at webjunction.org Mon Nov 9 23:57:44 1998 From: plib2 at webjunction.org (PUBLIB) Date: Wed May 18 10:01:25 2005 Subject: [PUBLIB] RE conserving sick leave (fwd) Message-ID: Sender: Elizabeth Urbanik Subject: RE conserving sick leave What timing :) Our Director is pretty lenient on sick leave, although I myself have gotten the occasional sour or disgusted look. Others have gotten the "mmmm" answer or a simple "okay." We do get some points on our annual evaluation for good attendance, but not enough to most of our thinking. Elizabeth Urbanik Pittsylvania County Library Chatham, VA -- From plib2 at webjunction.org Tue Nov 10 00:00:19 1998 From: plib2 at webjunction.org (PUBLIB) Date: Wed May 18 10:01:25 2005 Subject: [PUBLIB] Results of Scents in the library (fwd) Message-ID: Sender: Elizabeth Urbanik Subject: Results of Scents in the library Many thanks to those who have sent replies, both to me and to the lists. I knew I wasn't alone in this situation, but I didn't realize how pervasive a problem it is. By the way, I'm allergic to wheat products, m'self, but at least that's something I can handle on my own. Most of the replies showed that the staff here has gone way beyond what would normally have been expected. A couple were surprised to hear that such scent-free workplaces exist and wished they could work in one. I would say, make that attempt. The transition for us was painful because of the way it was done, which was basically by imperial edict, no discussion. The phrase "I personally don't need to wear perfume to feel feminine" was used. By the Director. Many of the replies also told me that I and the staff need to keep a high level of sympathy for these two women. I would like to think I do, except when I am badgered like I have been recently. In the past, whenever I have used something new, I've gone to the one who suffers the most (who now works at home) and asked her to tell me at any time if she smells anything from me or gets any kind of reaction. If she doesn't say anything, then I am free to assume that that product is okay. The ADA requirements are something I have no knowledge of and will check into. I don't know if the Director has any level of knowledge of them -- she may have investigated them three years ago when all of this first began. I've also been advised to go to a lawyer for a legal opinion, but one respondant has said the Director should be handling this situation, no me. If pushed, I will ask her what his opinion is, which might prompt her to ask him. I know I don't want to go over her head in this (or in anything else). A few have suggested that she get classified as disabled, and as a result either work at home, change jobs, or go on extended sick leave. For one thing, she's the circulation desk manager, so working out of her home isn't feasible. For the other woman it is, because she's the accountant and can take her stuff home. Whether or not she already is classed as disabled, I don't know. I don't know if she would want to be -- a pride issue. The accountant was at one point, so I assume she still is, but she has a host of other health problems, of which the allergic reactions are an offshoot. Changing jobs is something most of us at my library have contemplated often, but for most of the staff, it is not a great option. I myself am looking, but I am not going to up and quit (well, unless I win the Publishers Clearing House sweepstakes). A few have said that the problem is not the staff's to handle, rather it is her health problem. One said she should get a doctor's statement of her problem and give definite actions which we should take to accomodate her. I know she could get the statement of her problem, but I don't know about the list of actions. Her family is pretty well known in the county -- it might be possible for them to come up with such a list. Whether the Director would actually implement the actions is another thing. Yes, the mediator sounds good -- any suggestions on who would be a likely candidate? Certainly not the director. Possibly the county attorney or a doctor or nurse? A couple of respondants told me about a staff member, newly hired, who did not disclose her sensitivity to chemicals and smells. This person then caused upheaval as people were told not to wear scented things and policies were created to deal with the situation. The staffer then left the library involved, leaving in place policies which did not need to be applied to anyone then working. In my job interviews, I have made it a point to ask if there is such a restriction in place or if there is anyone on staff who is allergic to perfumes -- I don't want to work in this atmosphere again! No pun... However, I don't know if such a restriction would be a deciding factor if I were offered a job where it was in place. We do have a Hepa air filter going, and we have had the county maintenance guys changing the filters in the ducts often (but not regularly). We cannot spray for insects, so we are invaded by crickets, spiders, centipedes, and some bizarre thing about three inches long with feathery jointed legs that looks like a cross between a down feather and a centipede. We actually shut down the library one day so exterminators could come in to handle the termites which were eating into the library. I do not take responsibility for cleaning the filter on the Hepa, so the last time that I *know* it was cleaned was in the first quarter of this year, before the accountant went in for surgery. I thought bringing in plants would help clear the air, but no, they were allergic to the mold in the dirt. I asked both these women what deodorants they wore, and am going to smell them and mine the next time I'm in the store. One I know is more expensive than what I use, the other is probably the same price or close. If I am not disgusted by the smell of it, I will change, but not until I need to buy a new thing of deo. In the meanwhile, I have an addition to my original question: what about those staff members at your libraries who smoke a lot? We had a high school aide whose parents (or so she said ;) smoked and she would reek of it. The only thing we could do was tell her to hang her coat in the foyer. One respondant said that everyone was entitled to a place to work where they wouldn't get ill. Aside from the normal germs everyone is going to catch, how can you predict what's going to make someone ill? You can't force someone to quit smoking, although I suppose you could make it really difficult to remain a smoker, but then you might get slapped with a harassment suit yourself. Thank you all again for the replies, they were very helpful and insightful. If you have any further replies or questions on the subject, I'd appreciate your sending them to me so we don't bog down the list with this thread. Elizabeth Urbanik, *Cataloger, Automation librarian, and all-around gopher* Pittsylvania County Library Chatham, VA -- From plib2 at webjunction.org Tue Nov 10 00:00:29 1998 From: plib2 at webjunction.org (PUBLIB) Date: Wed May 18 10:01:25 2005 Subject: [PUBLIB] re: EBSCO gift reading service (fwd) Message-ID: Sender: Jennifer Baltes Subject: re: EBSCO gift reading service When working in a high school library, I was approached by the local community college for this program. The community college purchased 10 subscriptions for the high school. The magazines had to be covered with the plastic covers you speak of, but since it was advertising for an educational institution, I didn't mind. I would have felt differently if the cover advertised for the local Ford dealership or some such. Jenny -- Jennifer M. Baltes Librarian Mohave County Library District e-mail:baltej@mohave.lib.az.us Charles C. Royall Memorial Library phone:(520)453-0718 1787 McCulloch Blvd. fax: (520)453-0720 Lake Havasu City, AZ 86403 Too low they build, who build beneath the stars.--Edward Young From plib2 at webjunction.org Sun Nov 8 10:13:45 1998 From: plib2 at webjunction.org (PUBLIB) Date: Wed May 18 10:11:34 2005 Subject: [PUBLIB] EBSCO Gift Reader Searvice (fwd) Message-ID: Sender: Bruce Bumbalough Subject: EBSCO Gift Reader Searvice Nancy Z. Young wrote: > We just signed up for the EBSCO Gift Reading Service, which was a gift > from a local lawyer. Has anyone else done this lately? Based on > conversations with other local librarians, it sounded like a win-win > situation. My understanding was that the sponsor provided 9 (or so) > magazine subscriptions for two years and there was a small notice on the > front of the magazine folder saying that it had been donated by the > sponsor. What showed up was very different - the covers have a laminated > sign about 6"x6" with a very blatant advertisement for the sponsor. Not > at all what patrons and board had in mind. In fact, I get the impression > that it is actually negative advertising for the sponsor, as several > patrons have said they found it very tacky. What have other libraries > found? My EBSCO rep did not sound very concerned about the esthetics of > the situation, and just reminded me that we had signed up for two years. > I am going to call the main office today to voice my concerns. Any > feedback, or ideas, would be greatly appreciated. > Grapevine Public Library subscribed to the service a year or so back. The donor was a local investment firm. The ads are larger than I would like to see. The only negative comment voiced to me about them is a qustion from a patron who works for another local investment form. He expressed concern about the competition, but was satisfied when I explained the program to him. Bruce L. Bumbalough Grapevine Public Library Grapevine, TX The views are my own -- not those of my employer. From plib2 at webjunction.org Sun Nov 8 10:13:55 1998 From: plib2 at webjunction.org (PUBLIB) Date: Wed May 18 10:11:34 2005 Subject: [PUBLIB] Is There Anyone on Here from the Erie County New York PL? (fwd) Message-ID: Sender: "Mike Charton, Parsippany Public Lib" Subject: Is There Anyone on Here from the Erie County New York PL? Is there anyone on the list from the Erie County (NY) Public Library? I may need to make a trip up to Buffalo for a research project I am on. Thanks. Mike Mike Charton Parsippany Public Library From plib2 at webjunction.org Sun Nov 8 10:14:19 1998 From: plib2 at webjunction.org (PUBLIB) Date: Wed May 18 10:11:34 2005 Subject: [PUBLIB] Re: Filtering Facts Seeks Library Records (fwd) Message-ID: Sender: David Biek Subject: Re: Filtering Facts Seeks Library Records I think some responses to David Burt's notice to the list that he is requesting certain records have been more emotional than thoughtful. His follow-up post, citing California public records law, should show that this is not a matter to be waved off. Washington, for example, has provisions in state law that provide for public access to government records. Were a request, such as the one he faxed to a number of libraries to be received at the Tacoma Public Library, we would investigate to determine whether the records he sought existed, whether they met the legal definition of disclosable public records, and the extent of the records. If the request were unclear, we would write back to ask for clarification of the request. Once the scope of the request was known, we would reply with the cost of duplicating the requested records (we are allowed by law to recover actual costs of such duplication but not costs for the labor involved). The material would be produced once payment was in hand. Counsel would advise us whether names or other personal information in the records could be redacted. I don't believe that these complaints would be considered confidential patron records. In any case, a subpoena is not required to make a public records request in Washington. I may not think that David's reply to Pasadena PL was well-considered, but I do know that public records requests are something that public libraries have to take seriously. David Biek Manager, Main Library Tacoma Public Library dbiek@tpl.lib.wa.us *** new home page *** - my opinions only - On Tue, 3 Nov 1998, Filtering Facts wrote: > Today I sent the following fax to 25 large library systems: > > This is a formal request for the release of library records. I am > interested in obtaining copies of any patron and staff complaints about > patrons accessing inappropriate material on public Internet terminals. I am > willing to pay any reasonable costs associated with obtaining the records. > Faxed copies are fine. > I know that my organization is a controversial one within the library > profession, so this is an excellent opportunity for your library to > demonstrate its commitment to the practices as well as the principles of > intellectual freedom. > > If you decide not to release the records, please send me a response letter > explaining your reasons why. > > Thank you for your consideration. > > Sincerely, > > David Burt, President > Filtering Facts > > The libraries I sent it to are: > Albuquerque Public Library, NM, Atlanta-Fulton County Public Library, GA, > Brooklyn Public Library, NY, Chicago Public Library, IL, Cleveland Public > Library, OH, Denver Public Library, CO, Detroit Public Library, MI, Enoch > Pratt Library of Baltimore, MD, Free Public Library of Philadelphia, PA, > Kansas City Public Library, MO, King County Public Library, WA, Las > Vegas-Clark County Public Library, NV, Los Angeles Public Library, CA, > Milwaukee Public Library, WI > Minneapolis Public Library, MN, New York Public Library, NY, Oklahoma City > Public Library, OK, Phoenix Public Library, AZ, Queens Public Library, NY > St. Louis Public Library, MO, San Antonio, TX, San Diego Public Library, CA > San Jose Public Library, CA, San Francisco Public Library, CA, and Seattle > Public Library, WA > > > It will be interesting to see how much these libraries "practice what they > preach" regarding free access to information. I'll keep you guys posted! > > ***************************************************************************** > David Burt President, Filtering Facts > Website: http://www.filteringfacts.org > E-Mail: David_Burt@filteringfacts.org > Phone/Fax: 503 635-7048 > > > From plib2 at webjunction.org Sun Nov 8 10:14:31 1998 From: plib2 at webjunction.org (PUBLIB) Date: Wed May 18 10:11:34 2005 Subject: [PUBLIB] Pasadena Public Library (fwd) Message-ID: Sender: Filtering Facts Subject: Pasadena Public Library Several people asked me off list if I was serious about asking Pasadena Public Library for their records. I wasn't, it was meant as joke. I don't have any reason to believe that PPL has a large number of complaints on file about internet access, so I don't see any reason to waste my time filing a request with them. ***************************************************************************** David Burt President, Filtering Facts Website: http://www.filteringfacts.org E-Mail: David_Burt@filteringfacts.org Phone/Fax: 503 635-7048 From plib2 at webjunction.org Sun Nov 8 10:14:42 1998 From: plib2 at webjunction.org (PUBLIB) Date: Wed May 18 10:11:34 2005 Subject: [PUBLIB] Re: PUBLIB digest 670 (fwd) Message-ID: Sender: "Laura McCaffery" Subject: Re: PUBLIB digest 670 > Date: Fri, 6 Nov 1998 15:08:10 -0800 (PST) > Reply-to: publib@webjunction.org > From: publib@webjunction.org > To: Multiple recipients of list > Subject: [PUBLIB] PUBLIB digest 670 > by PUBLIB > We , at one time, had this service. We dropped it. the advertising was really obtrusive and was more hassle than it was worth. Our rep was not responsive and did not follow up well on our preferred subscriptions out of the less than wanted titles that were available on the the list. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Laura Hibbets McCaffery Readers Services Allen County Public Library Fort Wayne, Indiana "All opinions are mine alone. Others are free to agree..or disagree." "...all things are to to be examined and called into question. There are no limits set to thought." Edith Hamilton, THE GREEK WAY. From plib2 at webjunction.org Sun Nov 8 10:14:56 1998 From: plib2 at webjunction.org (PUBLIB) Date: Wed May 18 10:11:34 2005 Subject: [PUBLIB] IFAN: What Is It? How Do You Join? (fwd) Message-ID: Sender: "Don Wood" Subject: IFAN: What Is It? How Do You Join? The ALA Office for Intellectual Freedom has developed the Intellectual Freedom Action Network (IFAN). Those who join--and joining is free!--are asked to act as "eyes" and "ears" for intellectual freedom. IFAN members are expected to do one or more of the following: Read the newspaper and watch your local TV programs for incidents of censorship, and report them to OIF. (You can report to OIF by e-mail, fax, phone, or U.S. mail.) Send us any information you come across. Monitor lists and computer bulletin boards looking for incidents of censorship and information on pressure groups that are forming in your area. Report this information to OIF. Attend library board, school board, and local government meetings. On average, more than two-thirds of the materials challenged were in school libraries or school curricula. Don't wait for a controversy to erupt; make your views known before this happens. Be willing to lend your support to someone who is facing a challenge and to respond to requests for support from OIF on controversies in your area. Tell others about the Intellectual Freedom Action Network. If you would like to join the Intellectual Freedom Action Network, send your Name, Address, City/State/Zip, Phone, Fax, and Email to: Intellectual Freedom Action Network American Library Association Office for Intellectual Freedom 50 East Huron Street Chicago, IL 60611 IFAN members receive the Intellectual Freedom Action News free. (Issues of this publication are available online at http://www.ala.org/alaorg/oif/ifan_pub.html.) IFAN members also are subscribed to the IFACTION list and receive up-to-the-minute news, action alerts, and other information from OIF. ________________________ Don Wood American Library Association Office for Intellectual Freedom 50 East Huron Street Chicago, IL 60611 800-545-2433, ext. 4225 Fax: 312-280-4227 dwood@ala.org From plib2 at webjunction.org Sun Nov 8 19:25:09 1998 From: plib2 at webjunction.org (PUBLIB) Date: Wed May 18 10:11:34 2005 Subject: [PUBLIB] weeding CD's (fwd) Message-ID: Sender: David Waring Subject: weeding CD's Is anyone aware of any formal criteria/standards for weeding compact discs from a circulating collection? I'm particularly interested in number of circs as one possible index of "weedability". Our Library relies on our patrons to inform us of discs that skip or won't play at all, but I'm a little leery of such a passive approach; especially as our collection ages. If you send any responses directly to me, I'll be glad to summarize for the List. Thanks in advance. ***************************************************** David Waring E-mail: dwaring@ct1.nai.net 201 Valley Rd. Home Phone (203) 869-5581 Cos Cob, CT 06807 Work Phone (203) 622-7917 ***************************************************** From plib2 at webjunction.org Tue Nov 10 09:35:06 1998 From: plib2 at webjunction.org (PUBLIB) Date: Wed May 18 10:11:35 2005 Subject: [PUBLIB] Re: EBSCO thread (fwd) Message-ID: Sender: Elsa Pendleton Subject: Re: EBSCO thread At the risk of veering off-topic, I'd like to publicly compliment our subscription agency, Faxon. Our Faxon rep has been extremely helpful, courteous and patient while dealing with all of the bureaucratic nuisances produced by the Federal government. It's possible that y ou'll find, as we did, that Faxon and Ebsco can submit bids which are competitive enough for interested libraries to sample a non-Ebsco service. (we're a small library whose periodicals are quite mainstream, which makes it easier for others, like Faxon, to compete). Elsa Pendleton, China Lake, California From plib2 at webjunction.org Tue Nov 10 09:35:59 1998 From: plib2 at webjunction.org (PUBLIB) Date: Wed May 18 10:11:35 2005 Subject: [PUBLIB] Electronic Subscriptions (fwd) Message-ID: Sender: "Christine Lind Hage" Subject: Electronic Subscriptions Several states, including Michigan, have started offering libraries free access to full text electronic databases like IAC, FirstSearch, etc. I believe this is a great use of public money. Many small libraries just can't afford the site license fees for the major electronic resources. Many libraries don't have the technical staff to wade through the stuff you need to do to make the resources available to the public. There are benefits for larger libraries as well. We were able to free up about $20,000 because we no longer have to individually subscribe to Search Bank. What did we do with that money? We bought other IAC products that are great, but which we couldn't afford before. I encourage all of you to talk to your state library about a statewide contract to some of the big electronic resources. The per capita cost is very low on a statewide basis and it really goes a long way toward equal access to information for all residents of our country! Christine Lind Hage President, Public Library Association Director, Rochester Hills Public Library 500 Olde Towne Road Rochester, MI 48307-2043 Voice: 248/650-7122 Fax: 248/650-7121 Email: hagec@metronet.lib.mi.us http://metronet.lib.mi.us/ROCH/ch.html From plib2 at webjunction.org Tue Nov 10 09:36:15 1998 From: plib2 at webjunction.org (PUBLIB) Date: Wed May 18 10:11:35 2005 Subject: [PUBLIB] Sick Leave (fwd) Message-ID: Sender: "Christine Lind Hage" Subject: Sick Leave Our full time employees get 12 sick days a year. Part timers who work three days a week or more get pro-rated sick time. We allow people to bank up to 30 days of sick time and then once a year we give them half pay for any unused sick time over the 30-day bank. This check comes at the end of November and is just in time for holiday shopping. Christine Lind Hage President, Public Library Association Director, Rochester Hills Public Library 500 Olde Towne Road Rochester, MI 48307-2043 Voice: 248/650-7122 Fax: 248/650-7121 Email: hagec@metronet.lib.mi.us http://metronet.lib.mi.us/ROCH/ch.html From plib2 at webjunction.org Tue Nov 10 09:36:26 1998 From: plib2 at webjunction.org (PUBLIB) Date: Wed May 18 10:11:35 2005 Subject: [PUBLIB] Re: Sick leave (fwd) Message-ID: Sender: Mimi Hershenson Subject: Re: Sick leave Here at the Broward County Library, our county has a bonus day incentive for conserving use of sick leave. If no sick time has been used during any 6 month period, the employee earns one bonus day which is added to their annual leave bank. Mimi Hershenson Regional Branch Supervisor Broward County Library 100 South Andrews Avenue Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33301 954-357-7335 954-357-7399 (fax) z600390a@bc.seflin.org On Mon, 9 Nov 1998, Judy J. Atwood wrote: > What incentives does your library use to encourage staff to conserve their > sick leave? > Judy J. Atwood > Material Services Coordinator > Athens-Clarke County Library > 2025 Baxter St > Athens, GA 30606 > (706) 613-3650 > atwoodj@mail.clarke.public.lib.ga.us > > > From plib2 at webjunction.org Tue Nov 10 09:36:39 1998 From: plib2 at webjunction.org (PUBLIB) Date: Wed May 18 10:11:35 2005 Subject: [PUBLIB] Re: Video boxes "squeeze" type (fwd) Message-ID: Sender: Leila Shapiro Subject: Re: Video boxes "squeeze" type We have used the squeeze cases for years and have no or few complaints. As you say they are attractive because they are clear and really easy to use. I am not sure that if the right pressure or squeeze is applied, this movement is so different from many others that arthritic people use in the course of the day. It doesn't have to be a hard grip . Our poplulation is quite elderly and we don't have those problems. On Mon, 9 Nov 1998, Patricia Belcastro wrote: > We recently switched to using "squeeze type" video cases (it is a clear > plastic case; to release the video, you squeeze the bottom sides of the > case and the video slides out). We like the case for its durability and > attractiveness (patron can see the entire info on the video's cardboard > case which slides into the clear video case). > > However, we are receiving complaints that the "squeezing motion" > required to slide the video out is causing difficulty for people who are > even slightly arthritic in the hands (comments are coming both from our > Circ staff and older patrons). > > Has any other library using the squeeze type video case encountered > similar comments? > If yes, have you found a creative solution? > > Thanks in advance for your help. > -- > Patricia Belcastro > Deputy Director, Rocky River Public Library > 1600 Hampton Road > Rocky River, OH 44116-2699 > > (440) 333-7610 voice ext. 216; 333-3219 tty; 333-4184 fax > > belcaspa@oplin.lib.oh.us http://www.rrpl.org > > > ///\\\ Leila Shapiro ///\\\ Bethesda Regional Library lshapiro@capaccess.org //\\ standard disclaimer //\\ From plib2 at webjunction.org Tue Nov 10 09:36:47 1998 From: plib2 at webjunction.org (PUBLIB) Date: Wed May 18 10:11:35 2005 Subject: [PUBLIB] Job Posting - Branch Manager (fwd) Message-ID: Sender: Jerry Buck Subject: Job Posting - Branch Manager BRANCH MANAGER. The Dayton and Montgomery County Public Library seeks a librarian with supervisory experience to manage a busy branch (annual circulation - 400,000+). Responsible for supervision of 35 full and part-time employees, collection maintenance and development and programming for a growing suburban community with many young, professional residents. The branch was expanded and remodeled in the last year. Ohio's public libraries are among the best funded in the country, and the Dayton & Montgomery County Public Library system enjoys strong local support. Qualifications: ALA accredited MLS, supervisory experience in public libraries. Starting salary $42,544 with excellent fringe benefits including a choice of health insurance plans, 22 days vacation, 15 days sick leave, and 12 paid holidays annually. Send letter of application and resume with references to Jeremy R. Buck, Deputy Director, Dayton and Montgomery County Public Library, 215 E. 3rd St., Dayton, OH 45402 by November 27, 1998. AA/EOE/ADA Employer. From plib2 at webjunction.org Tue Nov 10 09:37:00 1998 From: plib2 at webjunction.org (PUBLIB) Date: Wed May 18 10:11:35 2005 Subject: [PUBLIB] Re: Results of Scents in the library (fwd) Message-ID: Sender: Nann Blaine Hilyard Subject: Re: Results of Scents in the library This thread would be a good topic--yea, even a scentsible one!--for A. J. Anderson's "How Do You Manage?" column in LJ. (John Berry, are you listening this morning?) [Yes, I know A. J. is retiring, but the latest LJ said that a staffer will continue the feature.] Nann ************************** Nann Blaine Hilyard Lake Villa District Library Lake Villa, Illinois ************************** From plib2 at webjunction.org Tue Nov 10 09:37:13 1998 From: plib2 at webjunction.org (PUBLIB) Date: Wed May 18 10:11:35 2005 Subject: [PUBLIB] Re: Union Meetings (fwd) Message-ID: Sender: Sue Kamm Subject: Re: Union Meetings I think there's a difference between staff meetings, normally held to discuss various library-related issues, and union meetings. Staff meetings should be on library time. Union meetings should not be. The organizations concerned with collective bargaining on wages, hours, and working condtions with which I am familiar meet at lunchtime (small units) or at night or on weekends. HTH! Your friendly CyberGoddess and ALA Councilor, Sue Kamm email: suekamm@class.org "There were flags all over the place. Wait and see what happens; we don't know who won the game. There are flags on the field. We have to see whether or not the flags are against Stanford or Cal. The Bears may have made some illegal laterals. It could be that it won't count. The Bears, believe it or not, took it all the way into the end zone. If the penalty is against Stanford, California would win the game. If it is not, the game is over and Stanford has won. We've heard no decision yet. Everybody is milling around on the FIELD!!! AND THE BEARS!!! THE BEARS HAVE WON!!! THE BEARS HAVE WON!!! Oh my God, the most amazing, sensational, traumatic heart-rending...exciting, thrilling finish in the history of college football! California has won...the Big Game...over Stanford. Oh, excuse me for my voice I have never, never seen anything like it in the history of... I have ever seen a game in my life! The Bears have won it! There will be no extra point!" --Joe Starkey's call of the 1982 Big Game. (The Cal Bears returned the ball 57 yards, thanks to six laterals and the Stanford band. The image of Kevin Moen crashing into a Stanford band member in the end zone is a justly famous capper to this incredibel game. Final score: Cal 25, Stanford 20.) From plib2 at sunsite.Berkeley.EDU Tue Nov 10 10:33:00 1998 From: plib2 at sunsite.Berkeley.EDU (PUBLIB) Date: Wed May 18 10:11:35 2005 Subject: [PUBLIB] Paperback circulation (fwd) Message-ID: Sender: Manitowoc Public Library Subject: Paperback circulation I need some ideas to help increase our circulation in our paperback section. We currently have the following paperback sections: 2 spinners for romance, one spinner for western, one general spinner, and two "Favorites" spinners. Favorites are our most popular authors (Crichton, Andrews, etc). Each author in Favorites is given their own row with their name on it. We used to have a sci fi spinner but circ was so low we integrated them into the general spinner. We don't put any genre stickers on the general paperbacks but we do on the romance and western. I do buy new pbks each month from Hot Picks, etc. Does anyone have any ideas or has anyone found something useful in the past? Our circ is getting so low that I need to do something ... Thanks! Connie Jenkin Manitowoc Public Library Manitowoc, WI From plib2 at sunsite.Berkeley.EDU Tue Nov 10 10:33:09 1998 From: plib2 at sunsite.Berkeley.EDU (PUBLIB) Date: Wed May 18 10:11:35 2005 Subject: [PUBLIB] Favorite vendor stories (fwd) Message-ID: Sender: "Karen G. Schneider" Subject: Favorite vendor stories Comments about magazine vendors brought to mind what is so far my all-time favorite vendor story... long before I got there, our library board made the library name an action item on the library's strategic plan. So several months after my arrival I innocently raised it again. After all, I have to buy library cards and more barcodes (we're in the process of automating) and didn't want to plunk down all that money if we were going to change the name. Cards are much cheaper if you buy them in bulk, etc. etc. etc. Little did I know this would be spark a series of board meetings where our 12 trustees would twist in agony over this decision... should they or should they not change the name from the Garfield Library of Brunswick to something, well, easier to find in the phone book and less confusing? (There are good reasons why the name was an issue to begin with; the connection to Garfield is tenuous at best, the name is confusing to newcomers, and the library is only ten years old, but there is the sentimental factor that the name was picked by the now-dead founder.) Oh the stress! Oh the angst! The deadlock began to affect our automation plans... no name decision meant no new cards meant no new patron registration for the online system. Plus with the name-change absorbing light and heat, other minor topics (such policies and fundraising) began to slide off the agenda entirely. I cursed the day I raised this issue! Meanwhile, every month Bruce from Wingfoot (a company that makes library cards, recommended by other libraries in our area) would call to ask me "how's it going with that library name change." I would share the grim news. Finally, Bruce offered to make several mock-ups of cards with the proposed name changes on them. He faxed me this sheet, I copied it and mailed it out with my report prior to the meeting, and the next meeting they picked a new name (which I will share with you after the state Regents vote on it). If there's a vendor of the year award, I nominate Bruce. As for business with our library--you betcha! _________________________________________________________ Karen G. Schneider | kgs@bluehighways.com http://www.bluehighways.com Author: A Practical Guide to Internet Filters, Neal Schuman, 1997 Director, Garfield Library of Brunswick, NY garfield@crisny.org Garfield on the Web: http://www.crisny.org/not-for-profit/garfield Information is hard work ------------------------------------------------------------ From plib2 at webjunction.org Tue Nov 10 13:36:11 1998 From: plib2 at webjunction.org (PUBLIB) Date: Wed May 18 10:11:35 2005 Subject: [PUBLIB] 100 year celebration ideas needed (fwd) Message-ID: Sender: MARIEN@ALCON.ALC.ORG Subject: 100 year celebration ideas needed We are fast approaching the centennial of library services in our city and would like to make it a memorable event. Any ideas for events or programs will be welcomed. (At this point, the sky's the limit. We are in the brainstorming phase.) Please answer directly. Thanks! ========================================================================== Marie Noe (915) 676-6067 Librarian II Abilene Public Library Abilene, TX marie.noe@alcon.alc.org ========================================================================== From plib2 at webjunction.org Tue Nov 10 13:37:03 1998 From: plib2 at webjunction.org (PUBLIB) Date: Wed May 18 10:11:35 2005 Subject: [PUBLIB] Re: Anyone using I-Gear censorware? (fwd) Message-ID: Sender: "Michael Sims" Subject: Re: Anyone using I-Gear censorware? Peter Bromberg wrote: > Anyone using I-Gear filtering software willing to share your > experience with it? See http://peacefire.org/censorware/I-Gear/ for some good information about the product. AIDS resources, gay rights, CDA materials, Jane Eyre, all banned by I-Gear. Do you normally prohibit patrons from reading about AIDS? -- Michael Sims The Censorware Project http://censorware.org Fabriacate diem. From plib2 at webjunction.org Tue Nov 10 13:40:36 1998 From: plib2 at webjunction.org (PUBLIB) Date: Wed May 18 10:11:35 2005 Subject: [PUBLIB] Re: Filtering Facts seeks library records responses (fwd) Message-ID: Sender: "Michael Sims" Subject: Re: Filtering Facts seeks library records responses Dave Ewick wrote: > Dear Publibbers: > > Below is one example of several responses published on this > listserve that just prove David Burt's premise that censorship is > relative, and is practiced by those very librarians who believe that > they are non-censors. David Burt had a good defense on another list. He wrote: "Librarians are supposed to provide information if they are asked for it, regardless of whether they approve of the viewpoint of the information seeker, and what the seeker might potentially use the information for." when defending this request on another list. I was amazed - David Burt demanding that librarians provide information without restrictions? I thought he'd had a stroke or something. Although I pointed out the apparent contradictions, he never replied to my point. I eventually decided that it was a "flag of convenience" -- that he (and you, Mr. Ewick) would fly under the flag of "free access to information" when it was convenient for you, and when it became inconvenient, you'd dump it like a hot potato. So I think you'd be the one who needs to avoid phrases "if you truly believe in the first amendment", because A) providing information to citizens about their government has nothing to do with the First Amendment and B) it makes you sound like the ultimate in hypocrites to stand on a moral soap box without practicing what you preach. Public libraries *should* provide information about the complaints they've received, rendered in such a fashion as to preserve patron privacy. They should also provide information about the praise they've received, and the level of patron satisfaction in their library. Why? Because the citizenry has a right to be informed of what their government is doing, not because a censor preaches about the First Amendment (apparently without having read it). -- Michael Sims The Censorware Project http://censorware.org And when I reached my sixteenth year, I signed my life away... From plib2 at webjunction.org Tue Nov 10 13:41:21 1998 From: plib2 at webjunction.org (PUBLIB) Date: Wed May 18 10:11:35 2005 Subject: [PUBLIB] Re: Sick Leave (fwd) Message-ID: Sender: Ellen Bell Subject: Re: Sick Leave About 15 years ago, at another library, we decided to offer sick leave in 1/4 hour increments, instead of the 1/2 day increments in place at the time. The result was that people used a great deal less sick time because when a doctor's appointment was over, for example, they returned to work rather than lose any of the time they had in the sick leave "bank." I don't think that library paid anything for unused sick leave, either. The change was so successful that I got it implemented here, too. At this library, retirees get paid for a portion of their sick leave, so there is sometimes a cost for the library. But they only get paid for something like 1/4 of the unused time -- and more employees leave for other reasons than for retirement. So we haven't had to spend nearly as much as we would have had to spend if we'd had to hire more staff. -- O:-D Ellen Bell, Blue Ridge Regional Library P.O. Box 5264, Martinsville, VA 24115 Phone: 540/632-7125 x 224 FAX: 540/632-1660 From plib2 at webjunction.org Tue Nov 10 14:57:15 1998 From: plib2 at webjunction.org (PUBLIB) Date: Wed May 18 10:11:35 2005 Subject: [PUBLIB] Re: IFAN: What Is It? How Do You Join? (fwd) Message-ID: Sender: Kirsten Edwards Subject: Re: IFAN: What Is It? How Do You Join? On Sat, 7 Nov 1998, Don Wood wrote: > IFAN members are expected to do one or more of the following: > > Read the newspaper and watch your local TV programs for incidents of > censorship, and report them to OIF. (You can report to OIF by e-mail, > fax, phone, or U.S. mail.) Send us any information you come across. > Watch my local TV programs? Isn't that rather above and beyond the call of duty? :-) Kirsten Edwards kirstedw@kcls.org From plib2 at webjunction.org Tue Nov 10 14:58:33 1998 From: plib2 at webjunction.org (PUBLIB) Date: Wed May 18 10:11:35 2005 Subject: [PUBLIB] (fwd) Message-ID: Sender: "Hamilton, Peggie" Subject: In defense of David Burt, one subscriber wrote: "Snide comments and evasions belittle the profession and the writer. If you truly believe in the first amendment, and that it applies to libraries, then you must present the information requested without editorial comment." Perhaps then Mr. Burt could refrain from making snide comments as well, such as "I'll add you to my list". In this constant bickering between Burt and various other readers, it has been the other readers who have advocated tolerance, patient encouragement, and when all else fails, polite ignoring of posts that we find offensive. Mr. Burt has not been so kind or encouraging. It's not even Mr. Burt's position that I dislike. I agree with him in principle. I dislike his belligerent and condescending writing style. I might agree with him more if he stopped saying things that sound like he's the only advocate of First Amendment rights simply because of his stand on filtering software in libraries. No one is blameless, but some people are less blameless than others. Peggie Hamilton Roseville Public Library From plib2 at webjunction.org Tue Nov 10 21:38:18 1998 From: plib2 at webjunction.org (PUBLIB) Date: Wed May 18 10:11:35 2005 Subject: [PUBLIB] UNION MEETINGS (fwd) Message-ID: Sender: Peg Bredeson Subject: UNION MEETINGS Our AFSCME contract has two sentences that cause some fuzziness. One speaks to the right of an employee to have the steward present at time of discipline, discharge or investigation. If one of your employees also happens to be a steward, he/she could be called out at any time to witness such a meeting. Secondly, it refers to union members being able to conduct business with a rep of the Union for a "reasonable time" during the working day. Yikes! Fortunately, I have not seen abuses in either case here - yet. -- Peg Bredeson Beloit Public Library 409 Pleasant Street Beloit, WI 53511 (608)364-2917 bredeson@als.lib.wi.us From plib2 at webjunction.org Tue Nov 10 21:38:42 1998 From: plib2 at webjunction.org (PUBLIB) Date: Wed May 18 10:11:35 2005 Subject: [PUBLIB] Laser/People counters (fwd) Message-ID: Sender: "Nancy Hunt" Subject: Laser/People counters We purchased 2 People Counters several years ago to circulate among our 54 public library members. (They need gate counts to estimate the number of walk-ins for the state-required annual report.) We have been very happy with them. We bought them from Laser Electronics in Blytheville Arkansas (800/441-BOOK). A/C powered models are priced at $249.00; battery powered at $349.00. (We bought the battery powered because of the variety of locations in which they'd be used.) ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Nancy Hunt, New Technologies Coordinator Indianhead Federated Library System 1538 Truax Boulevard, Eau Claire, WI 54703-1569 voice: 715/839-5082 fax: 715/839-5151 e-mail: hunt@ifls.lib.wi.us ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ From plib2 at webjunction.org Tue Nov 10 21:38:51 1998 From: plib2 at webjunction.org (PUBLIB) Date: Wed May 18 10:11:35 2005 Subject: [PUBLIB] re: Sick Leave Incentives (fwd) Message-ID: Sender: SUSAN WOLF NEILSON Subject: re: Sick Leave Incentives At a library I previously worked at we had what I thought was a great system: For every 90 day period you don't use sick leave you get a bonus day. So you could conceivibly get an additional 4 days of paid leave each year. This gave incentives for staff to stay well. Your bonus days were not part of vacation leave and were subject to different time limits for use (I can't quite remember off hand). When you were out sick, your 90 days started all over again when you returned to work. This incentive program was very popular by the staff. It sent a positive note, I believe, to staff, letting them know that the administration appreciated their good health. And most people took pains to attain those extra days. Susan Neilson Business Reference Librarian Charleston County Public Library Charleston, South Carolina 29401 neilsons@ccpl.org From plib2 at webjunction.org Tue Nov 10 21:38:59 1998 From: plib2 at webjunction.org (PUBLIB) Date: Wed May 18 10:11:35 2005 Subject: [PUBLIB] Position Announcement (fwd) Message-ID: Sender: Donna Gaab Subject: Position Announcement The City of Douglas, Arizona announces an opening for City Librarian, to plan and administer all library services at the Douglas Public Library. Salary Range: $38,774 - $48,695. Minimum qualifications: Master of Library and Information Science degree. Open until filled (first review date: 11/17/98). For job description and application form, call Ana Urquijo, City of Douglas Personnel Director, 520-364-7501, ext. 485. From plib2 at webjunction.org Tue Nov 10 21:40:33 1998 From: plib2 at webjunction.org (PUBLIB) Date: Wed May 18 10:11:35 2005 Subject: [PUBLIB] Filtering facts (fwd) Message-ID: Sender: Terry Dawson Subject: Filtering facts On Mon, 9 Nov 1998, DAVE EWICK wrote: >...David Burt's premise that censorship is relative, and is practiced >by those very librarians who believe that they are non-censors. This is debatable and might depend on whose ox is being gored... >His request >for information is appropriate, legitimate, and very useful to the profession >if we truly want to look at this issue rationally. Once again, a debatable contention. >Yes, his position is not liked by many, but isn't that the very thing we >espouse, that it doesn't matter who wants something, and it doesn't matter why >they want it, and we don't have to like them? Yes, for sure, but this is not the question. It does matter *what* they want. Or are you arguing that anyone should be able to look at anything they wish? Anyone who argues for filters seems to believe that certain types of material should not be shared. >Why would you rather provide >pornography to a teen than this info to Mr. Burt? This seems snide, and I have also heard it from Mr. Burt. Just because a library does not filter does not mean it provides porn, and to presuppose that such libraries would RATHER provide porn is a very negative judgement with no evidence. You have no basis to judge other people's motivation. In fact, I believe that our library provides less porn than many libraries who use filters. I would rather we provide none, but there's no foolproof system yet devised. Our staff can be gotten around and so can filtering software. Its much preferable to err on the side of free access. I trust our staff better than any filter manufacturers to make the calls if our patrons need reminding of our policies. >Snide comments and evasions >belittle the profession and the writer. No argument. We would all do well to try to keep the discussion elevated. But let's not try to bait or trap one another, as in the specious "Hustler" magazine offer made by Mr. Burt. This leads to snide comments, of which there have probably been enough on all sides. But it can be hard to draw the line between sarcasm and good humor. Sometimes you gotta laugh at it -- hopefully we can laugh at ourselves. >If you truly believe in the first >amendment, and that it applies to libraries, then you must present the >information requested without editorial comment. Sorry, this just doesn't logically follow. I don't mind summarizing complaints we've received or discussing any specific concerns or issues. But copies of patron records or personnel records are not necessarily a first amendment issue. Copies of Library Board minutes, policies, etc., are of course public. But some information is not for everyone in every context, like porn distributed in libraries or confidential info distributed to Filtering Facts. -- "Only |Terry Dawson, Director |tdawson@apl.org |"Information connect!" |Appleton Public Library|http://www.apl.org| WANTS to |225 North Oneida Street|920 832-6170 voice| be free." E.M.Forster|Appleton WI 54911 |920 832-6182 fax | S. Brand From plib2 at sunsite.Berkeley.EDU Tue Nov 10 22:54:07 1998 From: plib2 at sunsite.Berkeley.EDU (PUBLIB) Date: Wed May 18 10:11:35 2005 Subject: [PUBLIB] Sick leave (fwd) Message-ID: Sender: Bruce Bumbalough Subject: Sick leave Judy J. Atwood asked "What incentives does your library use to encourage staff to conserve their sick leave?" Ther City of Grapevine, Texas, offers a sick-leave buy-back plan in which full time employees working the complete year and having 160 or more hours of sick leave are able to sell back 40 hours of sick leave at the beginning of December each year. The year runs from November 1 to October 31. It is good in that it makes for a nice Christmas bonus and encourages people to be stringent on the use of sick time. Because a full-time employee earns more than the 40 hours sold, the net result is a gain in the accumulated sick hours. For example, I earned 120 hours last year, used 28, sold 40 and still was able to add 52 hours to my total. Hope this helps. Bruce Bumbalough Reference Librarian Grapevine Public Library Grapevine, Texas The views are my own -- not those of the City of Grapevine. From plib2 at sunsite.Berkeley.EDU Tue Nov 10 23:00:55 1998 From: plib2 at sunsite.Berkeley.EDU (PUBLIB) Date: Wed May 18 10:11:35 2005 Subject: Net as ref tool Message-ID: Colleague Lynne Olver just finished analysis of Oct ref questions... databases used: CD-ROMs, online subscriptions, online catalog, 52% of questions Dialog 2.5% OCLC 4% Internet 45% (but!) Internet provided answer, 17% ------------- Sara Weissman Morris County Library http://www.gti.net/mocolib1/MCL.html From plib2 at webjunction.org Sun Nov 1 13:02:41 1998 From: plib2 at webjunction.org (PUBLIB) Date: Wed May 18 10:21:45 2005 Subject: [PUBLIB] Page Performance Evaluation (fwd) Message-ID: Sender: Ruthann Swanson Subject: Page Performance Evaluation This is a multi-part message in MIME format. --------------B46F0F7C762427EE246A5ED7 Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii Content-Transfer-Encoding: 7bit Content-Transfer-Encoding: 7bit I'm searching for a performance evaluation form that's good for library pages. Any suggestions? Ruthann Swanson Alsip-Merrionette Park Public Library 11960 S. Pulaski Rd. Alsip, IL 60803 Fax: 708-371-5672 --------------B46F0F7C762427EE246A5ED7 Content-Type: text/x-vcard; charset=us-ascii; name="vcard.vcf" Content-Transfer-Encoding: 7bit Content-Description: Card for Ruthann Swanson Content-Disposition: attachment; filename="vcard.vcf" begin: vcard fn: Ruthann Swanson n: Swanson;Ruthann org: Alsip-Merrionette Park Public Library District adr: 11960 S. Pulaski Road;;;Alsip;Illinois;60803-1197; email;internet: rswanson@sslic.net title: Adult Services Director tel;work: (708) 371-5666 tel;fax: (708) 371-5672 x-mozilla-cpt: ;0 x-mozilla-html: FALSE end: vcard --------------B46F0F7C762427EE246A5ED7-- From plib2 at webjunction.org Sun Nov 1 13:03:04 1998 From: plib2 at webjunction.org (PUBLIB) Date: Wed May 18 10:21:45 2005 Subject: [PUBLIB] Library cards w/out ID (fwd) Message-ID: Sender: ash966 Subject: Library cards w/out ID At Saint Paul Public Library, if a child comes in without a parent or guardian, they can fill out a postcard with their name & address. We mail it to them, then they bring it back to us postmarked. This proves that the address is correct & lets the parents know the child is getting a card. A patron who resides in a shelter or some form of transitional housing can bring in a statement of residence, on paper with the letterhead of the institution & signed by a staff member. ******************************************************************************** Andrea Herman email: ash966@bitstream.net ******************************************************************************* "Oh don't the days seem lank and long When all goes right and nothing goes wrong And isn't your life extremely flat When you've nothing whatever to grumble at?" --W.S. Gilbert From plib2 at webjunction.org Sun Nov 1 13:03:23 1998 From: plib2 at webjunction.org (PUBLIB) Date: Wed May 18 10:21:45 2005 Subject: [PUBLIB] Proctoring (fwd) Message-ID: Sender: Bruce Bumbalough Subject: Proctoring Dan Hubbs asked about library procedures for proctoring exams. Grapevine Public Library charges each patron $5 for proctoring an exam. We have a small but steady demand from patrons. We do not plan to limit the activity to local card holders at this time. Bruce Bumbalough Grapevine Public Library Grapevine, TX If you have ever flown into Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport, you have been to Grapevine. We are sorry we missed seeing you. From plib2 at webjunction.org Sun Nov 1 13:04:33 1998 From: plib2 at webjunction.org (PUBLIB) Date: Wed May 18 10:21:45 2005 Subject: [PUBLIB] Re: Proctoring (fwd) Message-ID: Sender: Miriam Bobkoff Subject: Re: Proctoring A number of us proctor exams. It's an arrangement made directly between the proctor and the proctoree, and everyone knows who to refer the enquiries to. Whichever of us is in sight or in the building, for starters. We don't have a closed room outside whose door we sit, just park the person in our quietest place and check on them visually from time to time (no, they haven't pulled a crib sheet out of their sleeve, no, a consortium of helpers has not gathered around them.) If this were not formal enough for a given school, the student would have to make arrangements elsewhere. But I don't think that's ever happened (once the letter that came with the exam was very fierce about what controlled conditions I had to attest to; I called the school, and they ok-ed it.) I myself finished my bachelor's degree by correspondence, and since the Public Library was also my workplace, I couldn't use us for proctors at exam time. It was hard finding an alternative, sometimes. At the end I was being proctored at the community college but only by special arrangement --my boss talking to their boss--because the CC had stopped offering the service to non-students. So I always say yes when asked. Miriam Bobkoff personal: mbobkoff@rt66.com Santa Fe Public Library work: mbobkoff@ci.santa-fe.nm.us Santa Fe Poetry Broadside http://www.rt66.com/~sfpoetry/ From plib2 at webjunction.org Sun Nov 1 13:04:48 1998 From: plib2 at webjunction.org (PUBLIB) Date: Wed May 18 10:21:45 2005 Subject: [PUBLIB] YA job announcement MCLS (fwd) Message-ID: Sender: richard scott Subject: YA job announcement MCLS Dear Libbers, This is a repost of our job opening for a YA librarian. We are looking forward to hearing from librarians who love teens and want to live and work in our warm and wonderful oceanside community. > Job Posting... > > Deadline: Open until filled > > Position Title: Librarian I, Young Adult > > Position Description: > Seeking a dynamic and enthusiastic Young Adult Librarian for > a forward-thinking and expanding public library system in > SE Florida. The professional selected will work with library > patrons of all ages, especially teenagers, and cooperate with > youth agencies in the county to create programs for teens. > > The YA librarian is part of the reference department team and > time is flexibly divided among teen activities, homework > assistance, and reference desk assignments. YA is headquartered > at the new multi-million dollar central library in Stuart, opening > in January 1999. The YA librarian will also travel to four > branches and work with staff to increase YA use of library resources. > Evening and weekend work is expected. YA librarian will be respons- > ible for selection of YA materials, which requires knowledge of > YA literature, teen psychology, and middle/high school curriculum. > Job requires cooperation with other youth service staff. > > Education and Experience Required: > MLS from an ALA approved graduate library program. Experience using > computers for internet access, library databases, and > applications such as word processing. Demonstrate ability to teach > classes on library and computer resources with individuals and > groups, as well as successful programming with teenagers. Recent > experience working with teens required. > > Professional selected must work comfortably in a team environment > and have the ability to accomplish long and short range planning > both alone and with others. > > Salary Range: > $25,796 - $37,572 annually. Benefits include 2 week vacation > health insurance, pension plan. > > Send apps/resumes to: > Martin County BOCC Job Center > 2401 SE Monterey Rd. > Stuart, FL 34996 > > Fax: (561) 223-4812 > Jobline: (561) 288-5437 > Web: www.martin.fl.us/GOVT > > EOE/DFWP/Vet's Pref. > > ------------------------------ > > End of PUBLIB Digest 631 > ************************ > From plib2 at webjunction.org Tue Nov 3 00:07:29 1998 From: plib2 at webjunction.org (PUBLIB) Date: Wed May 18 10:21:46 2005 Subject: [PUBLIB] YA author visit help thank you (fwd) Message-ID: Sender: "karin boughey" Subject: YA author visit help thank you Thank you to all publibbers, michlibbers and yaackers out there who answered by questions about YA author visits. What a wonderful profession this is where you can throw out a question blind and get warm, supportive responses. I feel much more prepared for this task! Will put out a message of most common responses soon to all the lists. Thanks again! Karin Boughey West Bloomfield Township Public Library West Bloomfield, MI ______________________________________________________ Get Your Private, Free Email at http://www.hotmail.com From plib2 at webjunction.org Tue Nov 3 00:07:44 1998 From: plib2 at webjunction.org (PUBLIB) Date: Wed May 18 10:21:46 2005 Subject: [PUBLIB] Re: GED, ASVAB, etc. (fwd) Message-ID: Sender: Nann Blaine Hilyard Subject: Re: GED, ASVAB, etc. There is a delightful book called _Anathema!: Medieval Scribes and the History of Book Curses_ by Marc Drogin (Allanheld & Schram, 1983). Some excerpts: Should anyone by craft or any device whatever abstract this book from this place may his soul suffer, in retri- bution for what he has done, and may his name be erased from the book of the living and not be recorded among the blessed. (Jumieges, France, 16th c.) This book is one And God's curse is another; They that take the one God give them the other. (15th c) wrote procure joys life supernal May he who this book the of steals endure pangs deal infernal. ...May grace be to the reader, indulgence to the benefactor, and a curse upon its thief. (825) Nann ******************************* Nann Blaine Hilyard Lake Villa District Library Lake Villa, Illinois ******************************* > We started using a special label on the front cover of the "high risk" > books this year. (witchcraft, astrology, voodoo, GED, etc.) The label > has a black candle and the words "Promptly return book or be cursed." > The labels are intended as a humorous way to remind people to return the > books, From plib2 at webjunction.org Tue Nov 3 00:07:59 1998 From: plib2 at webjunction.org (PUBLIB) Date: Wed May 18 10:21:46 2005 Subject: [PUBLIB] Children's Rooms (fwd) Message-ID: Sender: "Karen L. Byrne" Subject: Children's Rooms This question is posted on behalf of our Director, Nancy Hammeke. Please post replies to her as well as to the list if you wish: Nhammeke@mclinc.org We are working on remodeling our Children's room. Could we get response from librarians out there on the following questions: What is your favorite thing about your new chlldren's area? What is the worst thing about your existing children's area? What would you do over if you could? Thanks for your thoughts Karen Byrne From plib2 at webjunction.org Tue Nov 3 00:08:09 1998 From: plib2 at webjunction.org (PUBLIB) Date: Wed May 18 10:21:46 2005 Subject: [PUBLIB] The Gimmick - Dael Orlandersmith (fwd) Message-ID: Sender: Marjorie Freilich-Den Subject: The Gimmick - Dael Orlandersmith I was privileged to see "The Gimmick" by Dael Orlandersmith last night at Stage 2 at Long Wharf Theater in New Haven. This powerful one woman show features a librarian who makes a difference in the main character's life. I urge all librarians to see this and feel renewed in their choice of careers. It was superb theater. Marjorie Freilich-Den Westport Public Library Westport, CT - > >***************** > _________________________________________________________ DO YOU YAHOO!? Get your free @yahoo.com address at http://mail.yahoo.com From plib2 at webjunction.org Tue Nov 3 00:08:43 1998 From: plib2 at webjunction.org (PUBLIB) Date: Wed May 18 10:21:46 2005 Subject: [PUBLIB] Don't forget to VOTE! (fwd) Message-ID: Sender: "Karen G. Schneider" Subject: Don't forget to VOTE! Tuesday, November 3 is Election Day. PLEASE get to the polls and VOTE! Remember that political support of public libraries is essential, necessary, vital for our existence! There are always a few folks who will be thinking as they read this that their vote doesn't count, or that the candidates aren't good enough, or that they're too busy, or "the system" is corrupt. Or maybe they avoided registering because they didn't want to get called for jury duty (as if that was all it took). I just finished a wonderful (but daunting) book, From Selma to Sorrow : The Life and Death of Viola Liuzzo. Viola, a housewife from Michigan, was murdered by extremists (possibly Klansmen) after participating in a march on Selma in support of voting rights. Viola obviously disagreed with those folks who can't be bothered to vote, as did all the other Americans who gave up their lives so we could all share civil rights. If you think voting is an inconvenience, think of how your life would be inconvenienced if you didn't even have that choice. Voting is not only a right and a responsibility--it is a joy. When you vote, Viola and all the other martyrs of the right to vote stand with you, all patron saints of freedom. Get in there and pull those levers. See you at the polls! _________________________________________________________ Karen G. Schneider | kgs@bluehighways.com http://www.bluehighways.com Author: A Practical Guide to Internet Filters, Neal Schuman, 1997 Director, Garfield Library of Brunswick, NY garfield@crisny.org Garfield on the Web: http://www.crisny.org/not-for-profit/garfield Information is hard work ------------------------------------------------------------ From plib2 at webjunction.org Tue Nov 3 00:10:13 1998 From: plib2 at webjunction.org (PUBLIB) Date: Wed May 18 10:21:46 2005 Subject: [PUBLIB] Re: Troubling Teens (fwd) Message-ID: Sender: Mimi Morris Subject: Re: Troubling Teens All right, I admit this is a personal hot button for me. But...please don't equate kids with stay at home moms to angels. There are kids with guns in their baggies whose mothers are home making cookies, or more likely, having lunch with friends and volunteering for "good causes" while their kids cry for attention. As the mother of teens who took no more than minimum maternity leave in both cases, I'll attest to the fact that my kids are not gun toting criminals. (Though they certainly may drive ME crazy!). As long as we're talking about not stereotyping teenagers, let's talk about not categorizing families by race, income, marriage status or parental employment either. All of our patrons deserve our respect. Mimi Morris Assistant Director for Branch and Extension Services Dayton & Montgomery County Public Library All opinions are my own... From plib2 at webjunction.org Tue Nov 3 00:10:36 1998 From: plib2 at webjunction.org (PUBLIB) Date: Wed May 18 10:21:46 2005 Subject: [PUBLIB] Teens (fwd) Message-ID: Sender: Melora Ranney Subject: Teens I'd add to the list of patron "needs" that teens need unfiltered computers where they can explore the Internet, space where they can gather together and talk and giggle without disturbing or offending others, and caring, nonjudgemental adults with whom they can discuss their problems or concerns. I would love to establish a whole separate "teen center" within a community center/library that acknowledged the special needs of this group. Mostly, though, I think we struggle to control them--and lose them. James Casey wrote: >Pre-schoolers need to have special programs and storytimes >since they are unable to read (most often) and every step >of the program requires very careful preparation. >Senior citizens often require elevators, large print books, >quiet areas and more help with computers. ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ Melora Ranney, director Charles M. Bailey Public Library Bowdoin Street Winthrop, Maine 04364 (207) 377-8673/74 fax:(207) 377-4406 email: macbeth@saturn.caps.maine.edu ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ From plib2 at webjunction.org Tue Nov 3 00:10:59 1998 From: plib2 at webjunction.org (PUBLIB) Date: Wed May 18 10:21:46 2005 Subject: [PUBLIB] Internet Searcher's Handbook 2nd Edition (fwd) Message-ID: Sender: "GraceAnne A. DeCandido" Subject: Internet Searcher's Handbook 2nd Edition Dear net-buddies and colleagues, I am preparing (rather intensely, this month) the second edition of The Internet Searcher's Handbook: Locating Information, People, and Software from Neal Schuman. Some of the good folk who wrote sections for the first edition are revising their contributions; most are not, although everyone has been cooperating nicely. Besides updating, I need to add a bit about SGML and the Dublin Core, and probably a few other things I haven't resolved yet. This handbook is aimed at people who are just starting on the journey to net-comfort. I would be grateful if you have a) specific suggestions as to what you might want to find in a new edition b) pet ways of finding things on the net you want to share c) simple and obvious searching tricks that are only simple and obvious if you know them. I will acknowledge and credit anything I use, to the best of my ability. best, GraceAnne GraceAnne A. DeCandido Blue Roses Editorial and Web Consulting 350 E. 236th St. Bronx, NY 10470-2104 voice: 718/994-7794 * fax: 718/994-9851 E-mail ladyhawk@well.com http://www.well.com/user/ladyhawk/gadhome.html From plib2 at webjunction.org Tue Nov 3 00:11:27 1998 From: plib2 at webjunction.org (PUBLIB) Date: Wed May 18 10:21:46 2005 Subject: [PUBLIB] Proctoring (fwd) Message-ID: Sender: Andy Barnett Subject: Proctoring Proctoring is much worse than tax forms. We can hand out forms, find rare ones and even refer people with tax questions to appropriate tools, but no library has the staff to actaully proctor exams. You might still be capable of surprise at the number of people who will cheat on a test if they think they can get away with it. Taking an exam at a public library is an invitation to cheat. Librarians are distracted, will seat test takers in an out of the way area and know that this is not really part of the job. When we proctored, we caught several people cheating, even though we didn't try very hard. We pointed this out to the university that made the most use of us and they were very much unconcerned and wondered why we bothered. We now send them to a local tech school. They run an evening exam sesion once a week for their students and accomodated the distance students. They get actual proctoring there, with someone paid to watch them. Around here, most students are near either a tech school or a two year college, so there is no hardship involved. In short, this is something that is hard to do well at a public library, that is open to abuse and can usually be handled better elsewhere. Andrew Barnett, Assistant Director McMillan Memorial Library (715) 423-1040; Fax: (715) 423-2665 490 East Grand Avenue e-mail: abarnett@scls.lib.wi.us Wisconsin Rapids, WI 54494 Library website: www.scls.lib.wi.us/mcm Prospero: Me, poor man, my library was dukedom large enough. From plib2 at webjunction.org Tue Nov 3 00:11:46 1998 From: plib2 at webjunction.org (PUBLIB) Date: Wed May 18 10:21:46 2005 Subject: [PUBLIB] public library websites (fwd) Message-ID: Sender: Andy Barnett Subject: public library websites Acessibility is not only important for those whose computers require the use of a text browser like Lynx, it also matters for the visually handicapped, many of whom are active computer users. They rely on their computers being able to read the screen to them, so having maps and java is not just inconvenient, it blocks access completely. Making your site more attractive is laudable, but not if it cuts some users out. I use and recommend Bobby http://www.cast.org/bobby/ which checks your site and makes accesibility suggestions. Andrew Barnett, Assistant Director McMillan Memorial Library (715) 423-1040; Fax: (715) 423-2665 490 East Grand Avenue e-mail: abarnett@scls.lib.wi.us Wisconsin Rapids, WI 54494 Library website: www.scls.lib.wi.us/mcm Prospero: Me, poor man, my library was dukedom large enough. From plib2 at webjunction.org Tue Nov 3 00:11:55 1998 From: plib2 at webjunction.org (PUBLIB) Date: Wed May 18 10:21:46 2005 Subject: [PUBLIB] Position Announcement: PCL Executive Director, CT (fwd) Message-ID: Sender: "Amy Terlaga" Subject: Position Announcement: PCL Executive Director, CT Position Announcement Partnership of Connecticut Libraries EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Position Summary: Under the general direction of the PCL President and the Executive Committee of the PCL Board of Directors, the Executive Director is responsible for the planning, organization, operation and administration of the PCL within the guidelines and policies established by the Board of Directors, including planning, implementation, and monitoring the development and growth of PCL services. The Executive Director works with PCL members, PCL Board of Directors, PCL Committees and PCL staff to define goals, objectives and priorities. Manages projects, personnel, budget and long-range planning. Provides leadership and motivates staff. Monitors progress, evaluates needs, recommends changes. Complete job description is available on the PCL website. http://www.biblio.org/partner.htm This is a temporary one year position, with a mutually agreed upon option to extend. Anticipated starting date: January 4, 1999 Salary: $70,000.00, plus benefits Review of applications will begin on November 15, 1998 and continue until position is filled. Please send resume and names of three references to: Chairperson PCL Personnel Committee Partnership of Connecticut Libraries 123 Broad Street Middletown, CT 06457 PCL is an AA, EEO employer =+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+= Amy Terlaga BIBLIOMATION 555 Lordship Blvd. Stratford, CT 06615 www.biblio.org From plib2 at webjunction.org Tue Nov 3 00:12:17 1998 From: plib2 at webjunction.org (PUBLIB) Date: Wed May 18 10:21:46 2005 Subject: [PUBLIB] AD **History book entitled "Strength Through Struggle" ** AD (fwd) Message-ID: Sender: mspencer@co.new-hanover.nc.us Subject: AD **History book entitled "Strength Through Struggle" ** AD Dear Listserv Moderators: My director requested that I ask to post the following, if you feel it meets PUBLIB guidelines. TIA! Marie Spencer mspencer@co.new-hanover.nc.us AV/Reference Librarian New Hanover County Public Library 201 Chestnut Street, Wilmington, NC 28401 Phone: 910-341-4390 x225 Fax: 910-341-4357 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * The New Hanover County Public Library announces the publication of ? Strength Through Struggle?: The Chronological and Historical Record of the African-American Community in Wilmington, North Carolina, 1865-1950, written by Bill Reaves and edited by local history librarian Beverly Tetterton. Mr. Reaves spent thirty years compiling information on the history of Wilmington?s black community, drawing primarily from local newspapers, before donating his research to the library. The book is over 600 pages long, and is illustrated with 264 images. It includes chapters on social life, schools, churches, community affairs, military affairs, political affairs, business affairs (business, labor and agriculture), and 100 pages of biographical sketches. The book was funded by grants and donations from the North Carolina Department of Cultural Resources,