Friday, May 01, 2015

CIL 2015

Computers in Libraries 2015

Writing for the Modern Web with David Lee King

  • slides online here (PDF)
  • the modern web is more than just words...images and videos are vip
  • you have 8 seconds to capture someone's attention
  • know your audience:  look at your FB insights, and website analytics
  • ask people what they're interested in from you on your website
  • your WORDS are a PRODUCT
Process:
  • titles:  put keywords in titles /  front-load content...aim for 5-6 words per titles (Check out BBC.com for good titles...don't be cute)
  • think like a reporter:
  • simplify
  • remember that many people use your site on mobile devices, so short and concise is always better
  • check out hemmingwayapp.com :  makes your writing bold, clear and readable -- very cool
  • say NO to weird formats (like Word, Excel and even PDFs)...can be issues with mobile (TODO:  check WW1 stuff / chat with Jesse about this)...if you do use PDF warn people before they click so they are aware WHY if it doesn't work
  • use conversational writing...type like you talk:  write, then read outloud...to check 
  • speak TO users, not about them
  • use keywords and hashtags
  • re-use content:  website / Facebook / twitter / print newsletter
Where to start:
  • content audit (google it)
  • look at analytics / re-write / re-structure if nesc
  • I did this in Jan...but good to re-do periodically


Learning From IT Mistakes! with:  

Matthew HamiltonIT ManagerDenver Public LibraryKevin SmithSenior Library Manager for TechnologyWake County Public LibrariesErica ReynoldsFormer IT Manager, Current Director of Library Partnership DevelopmentBiblioCommons Inc.

  • *communication* is key
  • IT needs to be at ALL tables
  • Erica:  "If you don't know how to make small talk, have a kid!"
  • Kevin's library has a "Policy and Documentation Manager"!  Have emailed for a copy of the job description....overall coordinator / overseer and documenter...sees big picture...ensures everything is in sync 
  • IT is a public service


Creating a New Nostalgia

Digital life is transforming the public’s expectations of libraries and archives. Is the internet making these institutions irrelevant? The “perfect storm” of reduced budgets, unprecedented increases in the amount and cost of information available, and the multiplicity of platforms at play call for new strategies for the future of libraries and archives. A lively glimpse into the crystal ball!

Presenters David Ferriero, Archivist of the United States (aotus)
John Palfrey, Head of School, Phillips Academy

  • check out AOTUS blog
  • biblioTECH book by John Palfrey:  why we still need libs + more than ever...audience is non-librarians
  • re digital divide:  more significant now is the "digital literacy" divide...peeps have the technology but not the skills / knowledge to navigate / manage etc.
  • information architects are as important as traditional architects
  • we need a magical physical space that combines physical and virtual
  • libraries should inform, engage and delight
  • the National Archives were created so Americans can learn from the past / hold their government accountable

Make your Website UX Rock:  David Lee King

Construction:
  • build your digital branch
  • mobile is a requirement:  we are on the right track! :)
  • a responsive website is greater than an app as it makes for a better UX on all devices
  • apps are better for a single use / game / thing
  • measure:  look at sims analytics re mobile use / time on site / connect measurement to lib's goals
  • read "Don't make me think!" by Steve Krug...make it easy
Content:
  • (see "Writing for the Modern Web" above)
  • talk about the BENEFITS of things, not the FEATURES of things...why should I care?  What am I supposed to do here?
  • kill the clutter
  • make it easy to share
Customers:
  • consider creating personas for your target audience...can start with strat plan...if you make it easy for targeted groups, will be easier for all
  • know your users...most visitors are repeat...don't have to explain everything
  • user feedback:  what's clunky?  what's missing?
  • Make it rock!

Mobile 23 Things
Jan Holmquist, Assistant Library Director, Guldborgsund Public Library


This session explores the potential of mobile tools for delivering library services. It uses the 23 things framework for structuring a learning experience for library staff and customers or members. Learn how to create your own community learning experience, delve into the mobile library world, share experiences with your colleagues and be energized to try new learning methods in your community.
  • grandchild of 23 Things
  • libs all over the world have the same challenges, but due to cultural differences etc we all have different solutions...Global Librarianship rocks b/c of this
  • unlearn...hack...learn...repeat
  • mobile:  allows for location awareness
  • provided all staff with iPad minis for the proejct
  • check out 23mobilethings.net
  • janholmquist.net
  • working on "for the peeps" concept...like iHelp...bring your own device so assume basic level of tech literacy
  • TODO:  chat with Jesse re working HistoryPIN in to WW1 project to engage mobile users...great place for the pix / local stories

Social Media & Community Engagement

Moderator: Alexandra Radocchia Zealand, Web Editor, New Media Developer and Video Producer, Web Team, Arlington Public Library PLA, VLA, ALA, LLAMA
Joyce V. Garczynski, Communications & Development Librarian, Towson University
Rudy Leon, Outreach & Instruction Librarian, University of Nevada, Reno
Amy Wainwright, Outreach and Student Engagement Librarian, John Carroll University
Katy Kelly, Communications and Outreach Librarian/Assistant Professor, University of Dayton
Kevin Smith, Senior Library Manager for Technology, Wake County Public Libraries
Lisa Waite Bunker, Social Media Librarian, Pima County Public Library
Victoria DaFreese, M.L.S. student & Office of Information Technology, University of Tennessee
Brian Pichman, Director of Strategic Innovation, Evolve Project

A strong online community can help strengthen a library’s in-person community and contribute to community resilience in times of stress. But how do you develop this? The answer is as varied as there are kinds of libraries. This panel of experienced social media folks, from a variety of academic and public libraries, shares how they develop, run, and troubleshoot their libraries’ online communities.

  • thoughts about how social media fits with the "Community Led" model
  • give your peeps a chance to learn the value of your library
  • build community 
  • delight your users
  • reach online-only users
  • tell smaller stories than traditional "marketing" does not do
  • gateway to the library
  • continue the conversation with #cilsm
  • make relevant comments as your library on related/local/significant community sites
  • make friends / connections with other big local sites


Diy library metrics

Ian Reid, Counting Opinions
Kimberly Silk, Canadian Research Knowledge Network

  • Long term data collection to develop a long term view
  • Stories need to b supported by good data, and vice versa
  • Stakeholders are different -- some need stories and some need data
  • "Getting started w evaluation" book
  • Strategic plan "compass" slide
  • Evidence based management:  base decisions on best available evidence
  • Tpl economic impact study very unique due to political situation. Had some data over time but lots of sporadic stuff. And inconsistent over 100 branches. Wanted system wide data.
  • Start with what story you want to tell.  Then back it up with data.
  •  Measurement model slide w eggs
  •  Kim challenges all public libs to do an economic impact study. Sure we r all lean, mean machines.

Technology & Libraries: Now & Into the Future

Mary Augusta Thomas, Deputy Director, Smithsonian Libraries

As part of the Smithsonian libraries for more than 30 years, Thomas currently directs the operation of twenty libraries located in each of the Smithsonian’s museums and research institutes. In this talk, she reflects on the changes over those years and shares some of the future strategies for libraries.

Technology and libs: now and into the future
20 libs within smithsonian, she oversees them all
Mary Augusta Thomas
  • Strategic planning and history go together
  • Smithsonian has huge history and still does what it has always done, but also always changing
  • Why do we have so much stuff?  Need to collect, catalogue, preserve in order to identify new species / ideas / things.
  • History is essential....social relevance, etc
  • You need to have the history of ur institution in your grasp...need to understand it
  • What works now, what worked in the past, and what will work in the future
  • Digital curation
  • Helping scholars network, preserve, research
  • Creating profiles of researchers
  • Do a lot of curiosity driven research, lots of overlap, need to understand themselves
  • Have a lot of stuff, including in notebooks, paper files etc
  • "The mission of libraries will not change, the mission statement and the way libraries accomplish their mission will change. "
  • Were "embedded librarians" before that was a thing
  • Future librarians will have highly developed skills to collaborate and cooperate
  • ...worked fine when u knew your users...need to learn how to tap into uses u don't know (eg online only)
  • Knowledge of the community and its history is key
  • Library print collections are moving from books on shelves to special collections
  • The act of discovery is not tied to local collections, so what do we do with them?
  • Still need to ask basic reference questions
  • Librarians need to listen
  • Library as place will change
  • Awesome whale bones on the new mountain road to telescope site story

Keys to Success With Assessment & Evaluation

Frank Cervone, Director of Information Technology and CISO, School of Public Health, University of Illinois at Chicago Lecturer, School of Information, San Jose State University
Libraries and information agencies are under increasing pressure to demonstrate value. The key to demonstrating actual value is good data on services and programs. Cervone reviews the key considerations in an effective assessment and evaluation program and provides ideas and tools for your own assessment and evaluation efforts.
  • Teaches at San Jose state uni on this topic
  • Link to his slides
  • U need to work w the politics
  • Lib staff need to know data analysis / methods
  • Don't just toss up a survey...need to understand results
  • Build a culture of assessment by doing it
  • Research quality slide
  • Evidence based librarianship:  scientific principles
  • Hierarchy of evidence (pyramid slide)
  • Systems thinking: look at the big picture
  • Think about why a problem exists
  • How to get useful feedback?
  • What should b evaluated and assessed?
  • ....what difference are u making
  • ...what are you doing for people
  • Questionnaires
  • Need to select a sample of your population...that is representative of your population
  • Idea: for next survey, use patron database to select relevant peeps, who have an email addy / random sample?  Use mail chimp?  Start w list, then take every nth person
  • Can combine survey w questionnaire
  • Pre-test your survey
  • "The voice of the customer" concept from marketing
  • See slide "understanding your customers"
  • Look into San Jose state uni frank's course on this topic

Friday, February 07, 2014

OLA SuperConference 2014

Overview

It was a unique experience attending SC as OPLA President, due to having a number of meetings and other official duties to which to attend.  I didn't go to as many sessions as I typically would have, but feel the experience was as valuable (if not more) in different ways.  I feel like I did more networking than usual, and felt more open to chat with people.


Videos, ppts, interviews and more are available on the SC14 Web page here.  I have included direct links to relevant session material below.

Provincial Inter-Ministerial Public Library Discussion Forum (organized by AMPLO)

  • Ministry (health, aboriginal affairs, culture, citizenship and immigration, training/colleges/univs) staff talked about the vast array of work they do -- many of their goals align with TBPL's strategic goals
  • Ministry staff were made aware that public libraries need support (financial / training for eg) when asked to "do things" for them
  • met the CEO/Chief Lib. from Six Nations Public Library -- learned TBPL is somewhat unique in extending services to FWFN
  • some things to consider:
    • collaboration with Youth Employment Centres for things like employment programs, economic development, innovation centres, maker spaces, tech hubs
    • check out the "Ontario Online Institute" which has been developed in response to trend to online learning of all kinds

Nina Simon opening plenary

  • from Santa Cruz Museum of Art and History
  • "the outcome depends on the invitation"...(eg. square white paper w. golf pencil vs. octagonal coloured paper with full pencil)
  • re the haters:  "bless and release"
  • incredible revolution wrt interactive art/history
  • I ordered her book for TBPL
  • see interview with Nina Simon online here

John's Session on Community Led Libs

  • see interview with JP online here
  • "proportionate universalism" -- some peeps need more services than others
  • "not an easy road to travel -- but revolution never is"
  • equity is more important than excellence...we need to let go of the feeling / notion / idea of upholding *good* Culture...similar idea to Nina Simon re the museum
  • the purpose of the PL is SOCIAL CHANGE

Collection HQ User Group Meeting

  • good to meet other users face to face
  • interesting presentations about how other peeps are using
  • talk of a listserv / more regular meetings

Jennifer Keesmaat, TO City Planner

Royal Society of Canada Expert Panel:  The Status and Future of Canada's Archives and Libraries

  • was part of presentation with OLA Board

Public Library Awards

  • presented the following awards:
    • OPLA James Bain Medallion:  Public Library Board Member of the Year to   Joyce Cunningham, Fort Frances Public Library Board
    • OPLA Lifetime Achievement Award to Anne Bailey, Toronto Public Library
    • Special Recognition Award, Rudi Denham, long-service HoOPLA Editor
  • met the Ontario Minister of Culture

David Usher Plenary

  • focus was on creativity
  • can't wait for perfect conditions to "be creative" b/c there's no such thing
  • collect ideas from outside your comfort zone
  • creative collision will occur...I have felt that!!!  (when mulling over a problem for a while, then the solution comes to you...)
  • light bulb moment is only the beginning
  • ideas are important but they need structural support -- who is your "structure" / team?
  • creative thinking is a tool you can use in all areas of your life and work
  • interview

OLA Board Governance Committee Meeting

  • am part of a working group looking at how the organization is governed
  • ties in with OPLA's work on TofR this past year
  • will be relevant wrt TBPL's systems review

OPLA AGM

  • chaired the Annual General Meeting of OPLA

Copyright Update

  • ppt is online here
  • I have been to Margaret Ann Wilkinson's sessions in the past, and as usually she blew me away with her intricate knowledge of copyright (both Canadian and International) and how it applies to Libraries
  • TPM = technological protection measures (similar to DRM)...aka "digital lock"
  • for licensed databases your contract with the vendor takes precedence...so you must negotiate with the vendor what you want to see...maybe we need more work on this, so we know what our contracts say about copyright

Library as Startup

  • slides online here
  • nice tie-in / parallel with Logic Model we are using at TPBL
  • kind of like the scientific method applied to business...or your library
  • "Customer Development" 
  • Key concepts:
    • Value Proposition
      • how a product or service creates value
      • what problem are you trying to solve and what is the result / impact?
      • may be different value for different peeps / segments of peeps
      • what problem are you solving for whom?
      • libs are good at describing/listing services but not at communicating their value
      • eg. not "we have 20,000 Fiction Books" -- but..."we have CHOICE!"..."we save you $"..."we can help you find your next fave book"
    • Build / Measure / Learn
      • feedback loop
      • *read "The Lean Startup" (ordered for TBPL)
      • constant adjustments / learn and tweek from experience
      • idea...build...product...measure...data...learn and start again
      • need to move quickly through the loop
    • MVP:  Minimal Viable Product
      • doesn't have to be perfect to be rolled out
      • try it / tweak it / improve
      • eg. of "lemonaide stand" vs traditional reference desk
    • Pivot
      • like in bbal...when you can't move anymore, change direction (based on what you know...and keep one foot planted
      • might need more than one pivot
  • best ideas come from nothing
  • you have to get outside your building
  • build smart, but build
  • MJ and Helen (presenters) are holding a "Startup Weekend:  Library Edition" in Toronto at the end of March.
  • worked on a "Maker Space" scenario and discussed how to approach as a startup (have handout with questions to consider)

Misc notes:




Friday, July 20, 2012

ALAVC12 Part 2

  • FOSS4Lib:  Free/Open Source Software for Libraries
    • includes a survey re if you're lib is inclined to oss
  • One-Stop Center
    • Pew Report results...not really a good presentation subject...go read the report...
    • good chart on page 17 illustrating extensive community / civic engagement
  • "Way We Serve Statement" with Steven Bell
    • excellent presenter with lots of audience interaction
    • focus on User Experience (aka UX)
    • need to get to the WHY of the lib...staff know the WHAT we do and HOW to do it, but the core is the WHY (aka Core Values)...tbpl needs to do this (next strat plan?)...then all "work plan" stuff gets tested against the WHY
    • used Pike Place Fish Market example:  "Treat People as if they are World Famous"
    • see Designing Better Libraries blog
  • Making Our Future
    • more maker culture stuff
    • check out tekventure.org (cool chain reaction challenge)
    • is anything like this going on in TBay?  Would be a cool use for Marina Park buildings...
    • shared tools (similar to shared lib resources)
    • possible partnership with LU/ConColl engineering?
    • again makes me wonder WHY...

ALA Virtual Conference 2012

Some thoughts and highlights:

  • lots of talk about "Maker Spaces" and maker culture etc...I feel kind of cynical about this...feels trendy, like "scrapbooking" (but then, libraries can use "trends" to draw people in...we have done scrapbooking programs!)...people have been "making" stuff for a long time...but now with new tech / instant communication etc they are getting together to share resources (like super expensive 3D printers, and laser cutteres etc).  Some libraries have partnered with local Maker Spaces ...interesting fit ... check out http://www.columbusideafoundry.com/ ...philosophy of sharing / collaboration / open source 
  • Danish Librarian talking about new "Urban Mediaspace" in Aarhus...see http://www.urbanmediaspace.dk/en   Similar project to Danish lib who spoke @ SC12, but this one is newer ...introduced concept of planning using "last responsible minute",which involves mega inclusion / participation / cooperation...open yourself up to knowledge, new ideas, input before making decisions ...they also used Personas in planning   ...also mentioned T!NG which is a national scale initiative all about the digital society
  •  "Thinking Entrepreneurialy"...heavily based on "The Lean Startup" by Eric Ries..."pivot towards success"...adjust while things are in motion...constant beta (blah blah blah...)
  • interesting talk from Sacramnento Public Library about the I Street Press.  The Library BOUGHT an expensive print on demand printer and has become a publisher for local (and other) authors.  Unique take on community engagement / working with local authors...also offering writing classes (using volunteer teachers)
  • Moving Upstream:  super progressive public lib which built its own ebook platform (Jamie LaRue, from Douglas County (Colorado) Libraries)  Look at :  http://evoke.cvlsites.org/  open source ebook platform software
  • George and Joan on Post-Print Libraries:  
    • people who get content instantly think it's *better*
    • non-text searching eovloving
    • ownership>access
    • libs need to focus on a SMALL number of things to be EXCELLENT at (we need to give up trying to be all things to all people)
    • role for Libs wrt user-managed portfolios (like Flickr, Pinterest, LibraryThing, Delicious)...encourage (and teach) people to manage their own info

Friday, March 23, 2012

Steal These Ideas: 11 Free Marketing Strategies to Try Today

Lindsay Sarin, Andrea Snyder and Julie Strange
  • all from Maryland
  • Julie blogs at strangelibrarian.com
  • marketing is something we all do: not big and scary
  • #STIMcil
  • marketing is about how you want to present yourself
  • need to build your marketing strategy from the ground up (need a good foundation, like a house)
  • know where you stand: assess
  • start with your staff: have an honest conversation and listen
  • look at your numbers...need to know starting point
  • ask the user
  • i am not my users: i am an information professional...remember the peeps don't think like us
  • focus groups are great: but have a third-party moderator
  • sometimes the truth hurts
  • find out what you need to assess
  • create a blueprint: with clear goals
  • clear the decks
  • be aware of how many messages you are putting out at once
  • too many bookmarks are not good!!!
  • ditto w posters
  • choose the essential and eliminate everything else
  • examine the things you like from others' and figure out the elements of their success. replicate
  • create your message: what do you want to convey?
  • keep the message simple: eg EPL: Spread the words.
  • good idea to generate slogan ideas: tweet your lib peeps
  • have an idea with staff: get prizes and treats for my MGS brainstorm session: also everyone put 20 ideas on postits and stick them on the wall...make it fun and make it happen
  • collect ideas from outside the lib world: get outside the bubble
  • right person, right place, right time
  • need to keep your current customers happy: word of mouth is fab
  • reduce pain-causing stuff: work like a patron...pay attention to how people are using your space, resources etc.
  • ask patrons what bugs them about your space / materials / virtual services
  • listen, pay attention and fix it
  • use your library like a customer and pay attention to little things you can change to make a big difference
  • renovate when necessary
  • be brave
  • "get carded" campaign with giant lib card and local celebs: new pic released each week
  • did during lib week/month
  • good idea! share with ppp
  • stuffed animals sleepover: evening story time, bring your stuffie, stuffie sleeps over, staff takes pics of what stuffies do at night (Teddy Bears photocopied their bear bottoms!) Picked up next day.
  • ideas:
  • ask patrons to take pix of their lib books on vacation with them
  • flat stanley + lib card
  • brain storming is fab :)
  • give people something to do
  • phrase things in active language "Like us on FB"
  • tell peeps why your stuff is applicable to them (...this is why you need MGS...)
  • *review this pre-mgs brain storming session!*
  • immerse yourself in something outside your comfort zone and pay attention while you're there
  • get into the community: shameless library promotion
  • be a real person, not a building
  • create elevator speeches
  • keep your librarian brain on at all times
  • ifttt.com
  • like hootsuite...check it out...can link w google calendar
  • assess the results
  • debrief after everything: talk to staff and patrons about what worked and what didn't...and learn from that (schedule to do re mgs tag line...six months?...a year?...also wrt ebook help + iHelp and any other initiatives)
  • tool kit: decide what you want in your tool kit and build it (ideas etc...)
  • stealtheseideasmarketing.tumblr.com
  • tips and todos and slides, also resource list: check it out!
  • also area to submit your own ideas!!! Fab!

eBook Issues and Challenges Debrief

Chad Mairn, Chief Technology Officer, Novare Lib Services
  • ebooks are not new but the devices have recently swelled in popularity
  • libraries are about community, not books
  • 3rd party ebook vendors are expensive: lots of *stuff* involved...licensing, drm etc...worrisome that these vendors might move to direct to peeps model (like netflicks)
  • Douglas County Library has a home-grown system...shows big players that libs *can* do this on their own
  • over 50% of peeps purchase books due to being introduced to authors at the library
  • big training piece: um, yeah! Role of library staff to train users how to get the ebooks on their devices
  • libs need to understand econtent privacy issues, and how to explain to users
  • will tweet link to document about privacy...check it out
  • new advances: colour e-ink
  • libraries need to advocate for open access
  • most authors not motivated by money (esp text book authors)
Ken Roberts (Chief Lib: Hamilton PL)
  • desire for a discovery layer, to integrate material from a variety of sources in to the lib's opac: people just want the info
  • we don't organize hard copy material by publisher, so why should we organize e-stuff by publisher?! (don't have all the Simon and Schuster books together on the shelf!)
  • libs need to understand publishers needs (why they provide certain models)...libs need to present our evidence much better, and so do the vendors
  • check out mediasurfer...allows peeps to check out ipads and other devices (they are wiped / cleaned when returned)...nifty
  • need to think about what the ebook will become: graphic novels / apps / and more...need to plan for that
  • information is beautiful WOW! super cool! visual interpretations of data / info...appeals to visual learners (show it to G!)...and share with others (link on FB)...very nifty
Buffy Hamilton, Creekview High School
  • The Unquiet Librarian
  • k-12 perspective
  • (fabulous southern accent!)
  • experience with school kids: ereaders removed stumbling block of "wow that book is HUGE I could never read that!"
  • school administrators want to see data-driven results ...evidence-based is pervasive!
  • easy management of content is needed
  • there is no "one size fits all" solution
Matt Barnes, VP Marketing at eBrary
  • "questions I hear a lot"
  • ebooks at the intersection of people, business and tech
  • people: the human factor...how ebooks are used
  • money: the business factor...how ebooks are being bought/solc
  • progress: the tech factor

Benchmaark Study: Library Spending and Priorities 2012

Results presented from Unisphere's 2012 b"enchmark study of funding trends in academic, public and special libraries.

Panel:
  • H. Frank Dervone, Purdue Univ
  • David Lee King, Topeka and Shawnee County PL
  • Mike Diaz, ProQuest
  • Dick Kaser, Info Today
  • Joseph McKendrick, Unisphere Research
"The digital squeeze: Libraries at the Crossroads"

  • think BIG, start small, move fast
  • Library Resource Guide benchmark study
  • over 700 libs responded to the study
  • books have maintained their budget share (from 2011 to 2012)
  • public libs more optimistic than academic and special wrt next year's budget
  • public libs in general don't do a good job of arguing for what they need: I need to do that for my dept...argue for what I need to improve virtual services...and do it at the right time for budget!
  • libs are increasing investment in: ebooks, support for cloud-based solutions
  • cloud based computing will grow, esp for smaller libs
  • some ils systems are moving to the cloud (really?!...hmmm)
  • David Lee King's lib had an MBA holding business librarian who helps peeps with business plans etc.
  • cloud computing by libs is up from last year
  • libs priorities for coming year: patrons are key
  • shift to community-based services (irl or virtually)
  • complete report online here...can also email info@dbta.com for a complimentary copy...would be interesting to see how tbpl stacks up esp wrt ebooks
  • sector reports will be available over the next ten days -- public, academic and special libs reported on by size of institution

What About eBook Readers?

#cildc #a302
  • Chad Mairn, Chief Technology Officer, Novare Library Services
  • doing a usability study on eReaders wrt text books
  • open forum / audience discussion
  • question about what % of budget allocated to ebook format...should it be part of "fiction"...does the content matter?
  • also b/c ebooks aren't "bought" (w OD) it's more like a subscription, more like a database than a format...or are they "bought" w Advantage?
  • need to be mindful that not ALL patrons have eBook readers
  • someone mentioned we were having these conversations when audiobooks came out!

Leveraging Your Social Media to Gain Friends and Influence People

  • Julie Theado, Social Media Manager, Columbus Metropolitan Library
  • jtheado@columbuslibrary.org
  • @columbuslibrary
  • Columbus OH...big budget cuts in 2010...needed to tell story and focus social media presence
  • big need to be consistent in their message
  • needed to gain support for a levy
  • Julie is happy to share their social media policy (email her for a copy)
  • need to know your customers
  • monitor, measure and respond (if nesc)
  • used editorial calendars: scheduled messages (what they would say and when they would say it...all planned, not random)
  • did FB, twitter, blogger outreach, youtube
  • scheduled FB chats...including author chats w local authors (can you chat as your page?...hmm...look in to that)
  • "Who Knew Wednesdays": weekly feature to promote...posted interesting questions that staff have answered
  • also did FB ads
  • Twitter: @LibraryJennifer @PatLosinski (executive director)
  • followed media, legislators and customers
  • held tweetup as part of the levy outreach: allows people to meet...twtvite is a twitter invitation tool
  • blogger relations: did a blogger event, just before summer reading club kick off...invited local bloggers to attend in person, and then they all blogged about it...interesting idea...I should get to know TBay bloggers...they invited Mommy bloggers + did special story time for their kids
  • bloggers have their own audiences which you can leverage
  • lessons learned: know who you are trying to reach / know your audience
  • write punchy and conversational: too much copy is difficult
  • approach staff involvement with a strategy
  • measure and monitor
  • creating quality experiences with your customers in social media is more important than the number
  • monitor what is being said about you online: Facebook Insights, Google Alerts, NetVibes.com, Twilert.com
  • tools they use: hootsuite, google alterts, twilert, netvibes, issuu (check them out)
  • what's next: pinterest
  • if it doesn't create results, they stop doing it
  • social media from destination to driver (ie driving traffic to web site)
  • question about pinterest and copyright...take a look at pinterest...one thing this lib is doing is posting book covers and linking to their opac...similar to what I do with flirck display pix...take a look at it and explore...can you tell how many TBay peeps are using pinterest?
  • need to read the pinterest policy (non-profit rules)
  • think about following back those who follow us on Twitter...prob will make them more engaged

Creating Inspiring Services: Going Boldly Into the Present

  • Michael Edson, Director, Web Strategy and New Media, Office of the CIO, Smithsonian Institution
  • slides on slideshare
  • "strategy is language that does work"
  • the future is going to get stranger and stranger so we need to figure out how to deal with it
  • the tool we use to span the gap to the future = strategy
  • lots of good books cited ...check 'em out
  • "the penguins are real": check out flying penguins video on youtube
  • "the present if farm more interesting than people have noticed"
  • so what do we do differently to take advantage of this?...
  • old learning model: one teacher lots of students...new learning model: learning together...all teachers + students
  • think of yourself as an extraterrestirial space auditor! ...compares the stated mission of your org with your collective actions...
  • do your ACTIONS match your MISSION?
  • on ramps and loading docks: "most of the smart people work for someone else"...you need to let them on board / open the doors for a free flow of ideas / engage with your customers...how can you get stuff OUT and IN of your org
  • edge to core: "innovation at the edges: a commons in the middle" commons of shared resources
  • focus on mission: clearly understand the impact you want to have
  • place the bet: what world am I living in...what impact does my country/city/org want to have in that world?...what should I DO today?
  • think big...start small...move fast

Thursday, March 22, 2012

eBook Issues

with LiB and two others (fill in later!)
  • with all the e-STUFF...why are eBooks such a contentious issue?
  • is it about sharing?
  • sharing will always win: major cultural and social head start! Our monkey brains are built around it. Have to share to survive
  • sharing is already happening
  • "The notions of copyright and intellectual property rights are quaint and adorable." lol!
  • This guy is really good...reading his notes but super articulate.
  • show the reader you value them by giving up rights to them
  • if you treat a book like a book, people will act and respect it accordingly
  • libs need to embrace and carry forward the cultural importance of a book into the digital age
Sarah H-J the LiB
  • likes stirring stuff up
  • lies that lib ebook vendors told:
  • ...they're broke
  • ...300% is as bad as it's going to get
  • ...(will get worse)
  • ...how high does it have to go before we have riots in the streets?
  • ...publishers are forcing vendors to prevent libraries from owning...not true...publishers don't care as long as they get paid
  • lies librarians tell ourselves:
  • ...everyone reads ebooks (not everyone likes them)...generally around 5 to 10 % of circs (check ours...I should know the %!)
  • ...we read our contracts and negotiate hard (we need to understand the terms, and take classes on negotiation)
  • ...without eBooks libs will die...so not true...we are SO much more than that
  • we need to take what society has created and equalize it
  • "Don't mess with the Librarians, we will take you down!"
Michael Porter
  • slides on slideshare at LibraryMan (link)
  • what made libs work?
  • ...some things that worked in the past don't work anymore
  • ...technology makes libs more relevant and useful
  • communities needs libs to thrive
  • libs need new solutions. Substantial highly functional practical solutions...also sustainable.
  • the role we fulfill in our communities is precious, meaningful and beautiful
  • libraries = content + community
  • format evoution requires new infrastructure
  • what are the real costs? Why mark-ups? What are the mark-ups used for?
  • a group of libs have formed a non-profit...Michael is a rep...to work out this stuff: there are enough libs in the USA to GAIN / take power...we do have control in our hands
  • libraries control the infrastructure: sophisticated new models
  • Library Renewal
  • we need to come together, use this non-profit as a tool to change things: take some ation
  • Library Renewal has been doing a lot of research, building relationships and partnerships and working on solutions
  • currently seeking funding to build the infrastructure
  • bottom line: more money for rights holders and publishers, and huge savings for libraries

Tales from the North (ROFL really SOUTH!) eBook Publishers and Libraries: Win-win solutions




Ken Roberts, Chief Librarians and Michael Ciccone, Director of Collections, Hamilton Public Library


  • also guy from eBrary
  • working on agreements with publishers
  • beginning to see a willingness from "big 6" publishers to use Canada as a testing ground for eBook models / assumptions
  • Canadian Urban Library Council (CULC) is working on this
  • look at CULC web site re work on eBooks and Public Libraries...are working to make a lot of info public
  • Canadian Publishers' Council: the big six publishers
  • learned: cautiousness, concern about impact of perpetual access, worry about business model, interest in Canadian options
  • shared: alternate licensing models, discovery layer and repository concerns
  • Canadian laws protect indigenous publishing industry: BUT only applies to PRINT, not electronic...interesting
  • Canadian Pubs Council agreed that libs are important, are looking for a Canadian solution
  • Association of Canadian Publishers: formed eBound to support digital publishing...want to know how to sell more to libraries
  • talking to them about marketing to libs directly (b/c Content Reserve sucks)
  • had lots of frank and open discussions
  • very amenable to piloting different pricing models
  • issues to resolve: storage (Canadian), delivery, security, tracking, integrated discovery layer
  • bibliocommons has been working on eBook integration...does that just mean marc records?...or more?...other discovery layers will be able to do the same thing...does evergreen have a discovery layer?
  • what does the discovery layer have that our opac doesn't? Do we need to re-visit?
  • not a loan model: an access/licensing model
  • fear of publishers of loosing money
  • Hamilton proposed model: publishers tell lib what their average sales were for mid- and back- list sales in the city of Hamilton...and lib give them that amount of money, for complete access (simultaneous use) for ebook format for the library patrons...publishers said: well we won't loose money...sounds good...publishers agreed...for Random House. Need to work with other publishers. Amount is not that high. So how is HPL delivering the books? Easy model to expand to other communities.
  • same idea pitched to assoc of Canadian publishers...sounds good to them
  • agreed to review that figure after a year: it's a pilot
  • also agreed to BUY buttons on the lib's opac / bibliocommons...interesting
  • another win for publishers
  • do patrons still need to sign out the eBooks and have a limited loan period?
  • not actually live yet
eBrary guy: Matt Barnes, VP marketing eBrary
  • eBooks aren't print books
  • all at the table need to understand others' perspectives in order to come up with solutions
  • pioneered subscription ebook model
  • it actually costs more for a publisher to produce an ebook than a paper book
  • Patron Driven Access (PDA): cost effective way to expand access, purchase based on use (so patron gets a free 10 minute preview...if they want to use it then the lib buys it)...interesting...lib sets the parameters...generous triggers...expanded coverage for publishers
  • bit of an ILL replacement...kind of like what we're piloting at TBPL...interesting
  • all these models have worked together...mix and match roi max
  • can combine patron-driven, short term loan and purchase models
  • need more discussions to find the right model with which to move forward

Creating Innovative Libraries

with Susan Hildreth, Institute of Museum and Library Services
  • Institute of Mus and Lib Services (IMLS)
  • interested in VALUE of libraries
  • IMLS was created about 15 years ago: analyzes trends, share best practices, provides policy advice, partner w other fed agencies (interesting...take a look at their work wrt VALUE project of OLA)...they do research
  • primarily a grant-making agency: provide grants for libraries and museums
  • IMLS is very well funded by the Obama administration
  • link to her slides
  • (talked to a librarian who works with the Army Corps of Engineers, here in DC...when I told her where TBay is she mentioned The Edmond Fitzgerald! Big Gordon Lightfoot fan!)
  • 21st century users want to be involved + create their own content (move from living room to kitchen...again... :) )
  • we need to be EMBEDDED in our communities...we have to go to them...(including virtually)...technology is a means to an end
  • the mission of IMLS is to inspire libs and museums to advance innovation, learning and cultural and civic engagement. The provide leadership through research, policy development and grant-making.
  • what do we have in Canada that is similar?...probably a mish-mash of gov agencies and organizations: find out
  • helping to move libs from NICE TO HAVE to NEED TO HAVE
  • libs need to be relevant and meaningful to their users
  • check out free online assessment tools (and more at the IMLS Web site)
  • four cs: creativity, collaboration, critical thinking...and ?! (communication?) (move from the 3Rs)...find out the 4th c!
  • growing diy and maker culture
  • people want to learn by doing: great op for libs...KITCHEN! ...maker spaces and places
  • shifting physical needs from print to digital: space...to re-purpose / re-program...hmmmm...how can we make our newfound pace in to THE KITCHEN
  • check out Chicago Public Library's YOUmedia Center...nice model for a Maker Lab...has been very successful: building skills and engaging kids
  • promoting libs as strong community ANCHORS...nice! new buzz word!
  • community anchor also wrt virtual:...ANCHOR is not nesc place-based...also online
  • focus on how libs are impacting the workforce: "Opportunity for All" study about lib use (public access computers) to find jobs ..."career and employment needs"...four million peeps found work using a lib computer: major huge impact
  • has a partnership with Dept of Labour
  • "Connecting to Collections" report...focus on preserving and maintaining access to unique items
  • "Digging Into Data" challenge...wrg BIG DATA...working on international protocols for managing research (look in to how Canada is involved)
  • DPLA: Digital Public Library of America (look it up)
  • research reports: take a look and see if any models for OLA value of libs work
  • goal of "Public Management Excellence"...creating a culture of planning, evaluation and evidence-based practice...planning and evaluation vip to show what you're doing is making a difference
  • "prudent risk-taking"...libs need to just do it!...perpetual beta mind-set...but when dealing with public funds you have to be prudent...fine balance! Need to learn from failure if you're going to grow.
  • look at slide w flow chart of imls's Performance Improvement Model: develop, assess, inform, look at impact, reshape based on feedback
  • DPLA: digital public library of America...at proof of concept stage...a future for libs in a could computing world...broad public access to info on a "free to all" basis: a huge vision...imls is a partner. Addressing need for libs to incorporate many types of materials beyond text. Has been development more extensively in Europe. Project managed by the Berkman Centre for Internet and Society at Harvard. Take a closer look at it. Sounds like a huge, amazing project. Early stages at the mo'
  • What is the dpla? Collaborative effort...active online community of over 1,000 members. Anyone can sign up.
  • working on open source code, linking meta-data systems
  • frame of the DPLA is much larger than eBooks...more about wider e-content...boarder, longer-standing vision

Wednesday, March 21, 2012

Computers in Libraries 2012 (CIL)

  • check out the Conference Web site
  • and blog
  • and twitter hash tag #CILDC
  • lots of great ideas, slides and even streaming presentations
  • learned about this new search engine: blekko (no spam, privacy, no ads, user-generated slashtags)

Sunday, February 05, 2012

Images from SC12

Spinning Carr McLean's Wheel of Fortune...sadly we both *just* won tote bags (could have been a net book!)






Blingged-out name tag











Official introduction of the 2012 OLA Board








Waiting to go on stage for official intro





My sis's #whatidolibrary old skewl tweet


Library as Place: Tales from the Community Learning Commons

  • staff from Richmond Hill PL
  • (link to slides #1803)
  • RHPL is heavily used
  • used library space for trade show type events to showcase local businesses, artists, authors, crafts people
  • also did Extended Study Hall program where the lib was open two hours later than usual exclusively for the use of post-secondary students (also professionals...like people studying for CA exams) during exam times...staffed only by security guards...had in-house access to lib resources and computers...peeps had to be there when the library closed and re-admittance was not allowed
  • Technology Fair: invited vendor sales reps, did internet classes, drop-in tech help, invited staff from local tech stores and held a "Teen Technology Mosh Pit" in which teen volunteers helped peeps with their tech questions
  • also included adaptable technology
  • Health Fair: had a "fair"-like atmosphere, kept it local, building relationships with local health care providers (used previous room-bookings as leads)
  • interesting approach to the "library as place" mind set...don't have to squirrel programs away in meeting rooms, use the whole space

Copyright Update

  • with the amazingly articulate and incredibly smart Margaret Ann Wilkinson from UWO
  • IFLA has put library exemptions in to the international forum...librarians have put users' rights on the international agenda for the first time
  • (slides online)
  • "not pedagogically advisable" ...describing text-rich slides...*so* articulate!
  • "publication" is not defined in the copyright act...question arose around hyperlinks and if they are considered publishing (esp. if they are endorsed ...eg "staff suggested links")...the majority of the Supreme Court made this analogy about hyperlinking: it's like a reference in the publishing context: therefore hyperlinking is not considered publication
  • the Supreme Court is poised to do things we like
  • "fair dealing"...private study (one person) vs a whole class (simply "study")..another scenario is making copies for tests and exams
  • can visit Supreme Court of Canada Web site and put in file number for updates (file numbers noted on slides)
  • currently waiting for two Supreme Court judgments
  • in case law "publishing" = making copies for the public...but Supreme Court decision trumps all
Access Copyright:
  • 4 tariffs pending
  • sells the right to reproduction (wrt PRINT only)
  • contracts are for a limit amount of time
  • Universities are all separate legal entities...Bd of Governors have to deal with copyright: it's a legal decision and involves risk-assessment
  • Colleges are slightly different
  • Access Copyright is the adversary
  • some unis have decided to go with Access Copyright, so are not in infringement
  • THIS JUST HAPPENED LAST MONDAY: 3rd option: UWO and UofT signed a contractual arrangement with Access Copyright...it's interesting that AC would do it...as they have unis before the Copyright Board...this 3rd option has never happened before...amount in contact is $27.50 per student...amt before Board is $45...whacked that AC is basically under-bidding itself
  • UofT and UWO now have certainty re what they are going to pay
  • the Tariffs don't include indemnification (ie to pay cost of lawsuit/judgment) therefore protection for rights-holders not in AC
  • OLA and CLA made representation to the Copyright Board about this
  • the risk for UofT and UWO is that the Bd might decide on an even lower amount
  • from a copyright perspective UofT and UWO have showed a third way
  • todo: research how AC got started
  • the question if whether or not these new agreements are good for libraries in general or not...
  • how can we as a full community use this?...we need to work together and leverage our position...obviously there is something wrong with the new process if these peeps are making alternate arrangements
  • Bill C11 will prob pass as it is
  • CLA had brought forward points that OLA had raised wrt previous bill (as Govt would only hear "new" depositions)
  • gov't uses the term "education" but does not define it narrowly...therefore could include libraries (self-study, lifelong learning etc)
  • in some FAB news: CLA had ngo status at a huge World Intellectual Property Organization session (held Nov 21-23, 2011)...as did IFLA...and brought the need to consider libraries and archives to the world stage
  • this was an historic event in the history of librarianship
  • users rights moved from the UN to the trade side of the world stage
  • all the nations recognized libraries as trusted intermediaries
  • continuing to talk about an international statement or treaty about intellectual property...wow! stay tuned... all IFLA's text is on the table
  • take a look at "resources" ont he last slide