Emilio Estevez P

March/AprilMarch/April 2018 2018

THETHE MAGAZINE MAGAZINE OF OF THE THE AMERICAN AMERICAN LIBRARY LIBRARY ASSOCIATION ASSOCIATION

ININ AA VIRTUALVIRTUAL WORLDWORLD p. 26 Kickstart Library

SuccessNEWSMAKER: p. 42 Emilio Estevez p. 20 Midwinter Wrap-UpNational Libraryp. 52 Week Turns 60 p. 34 PLUS: UFO Library, author NathaliaPLUS: Tattoo Holt, andRA, whyData you Literacy shouldand Teens, follow Degree #ALA140 or Not Degree A breath of fresh air.

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American Libraries | Volume 49 #3/4 | ISSN 0002-9769

COVER STORY 26 In a Virtual World How school, academic, and public libraries are testing virtual reality in their communities BY Miguel Figueroa

34 FEATURES 34 “Wake Up and Read” to “Libraries Lead” The 60-year history of National Library Week 38 BY Greg Landgraf 38 Engaging Civic-Minded Teens Data literacy fosters YA participation and innovation BY Terra Dankowski 42 We’ve All Been There Conducting effective difficult conversations BY Catherine Soehner and Ann Darling

ON THE COVER: 42 Photos by ©nasa_gallery/ Adobe Stock (background) and ©nenetus/Adobe Stock (woman) 14 16 18

UP FRONT TRENDS PROFESSIONAL 3 From the 14 Inked RA DEVELOPMENT Editor Libraries recommend books IN PRACTICE Looking Ahead based on patron tattoos 46 We Can, but Should We? BY Sanhita SinhaRoy BY Phil Morehart BY Meredith Farkas

5 From Our 16 Community Fabric DISPATCHES Readers Libraries partner with clubs to create 47 Social Media Bots “fidget quilts” for patients with dementia BY Joanna M. Burkhardt BY Bailey Brewer ALA YOUTH MATTERS SPOTLIGHT 4 From the 48 To Preserve and Protect 18 Every Month Is Black History Month BY Amy Harpe President Richland Library uses programming Fight for School and dialogue to engage the African- JOBLIST Libraries American community year-round 49 Career Leads BY Jim Neal BY Quincy Pugh 8 Update LIBRARIAN’S LIBRARY NEWSMAKER What’s happening 50 Serving the Community 20 Emilio Estevez BY Karen Muller at ALA Actor and filmmaker tackles the 12 From the library response to homelessness SOLUTIONS Candidates PLUS 52 Embracing Diverse Campaign Narratives statements from 15 By the Numbers Improving your services the 2019–2020 19 Global Reach to minority populations ALA presidential 22 Noted & Quoted candidates PEOPLE BY Wanda Brown and OPINION Peter Hepburn ANOTHER STORY 54 Announcements 24 Degree or Not Degree BY Joseph Janes THE BOOKEND

ON MY MIND 56 A Friend to the Fishes 25 What Is Access without Equity? BY Nicole Umayam

Address: 50 E. Huron St., Chicago, IL 60611 Website: americanlibrariesmagazine.org Looking Ahead Email: [email protected] Phone: 800-545-2433 plus extension Career Ads: JobLIST.ala.org ur cover story on virtual reality (p. 26) has me INTERIM EDITOR AND PUBLISHER Where Sanhita SinhaRoy Hogwa rts looking to the future. And it has me wonder- would you go [email protected] | x4219 ing: What will my kids think of this growing in a virtual SENIOR EDITORS technology, and how will they make use of world? Amy Carlton David O [email protected] | x5105 Bowie’s it as they get older? Fortunately, librarians are already The George M. Eberhart closet, exploring similar questions for their patrons. As Miguel Museum [email protected] | x4212 circa 1972 of Human Figueroa, director of ALA’s Center for the Future of Misery ASSOCIATE EDITORS Libraries, writes in his intro to the story, whether through gift shop Terra Dankowski Boston [email protected] | x5282 Te a Pa rt y classroom use, lending programs, or a commitment to Mos Eisley Phil Morehart equitable access, libraries are once again thinking ahead cantina [email protected] | x4218 Sanhita SinhaRoy and adapting to new innovations and user needs. EDITORIAL AND ADVERTISING ASSISTANT Carrie Smith And speaking of the future, this column is an introduc- [email protected] | x4216 tion of sorts. Many of you may know that I’m not a new Microscopic EDITOR-AT-LARGE To India, face to American Libraries or the Association; I’ve worked pla ces, Anne Ford in hopes of Magic School petting tigers at ALA for nearly seven years, recently hanging up my hat Bus–style [email protected] | x2157 as managing editor to assume the role of interim editor ART DIRECTOR Rebecca Lomax Skydiving and publisher following Laurie D. Borman’s retirement. Outer [email protected] | x4217 space For the past 17 years, I’ve been a professional editor and ADVERTISING journalist at several publications, including magazines Michael Stack [email protected] | 847-367-7120 Acceptance of advertising does not constitute endorse- like In These Times that are committed to social justice. ment. ALA reserves the right to refuse advertising. That’s why the topic of Emilio Estevez’s new movie PUBLISHING DEPARTMENT The Public intrigued me. Filmed in the Public Library Mary Mackay, Associate Executive Director Mary Jo Bolduc, Rights, Permissions, Reprints | x5416 of Cincinnati and Hamilton County, the movie puts a

MEMBERSHIP spotlight on homelessness. Estevez spoke with Associate Ron Jankowski, Director Editor Phil Morehart about the moral imperative to Libraries ADVISORY COMMITTEE help those in need (p. 20). Read the full interview at Joseph M. Eagan (Chair), Lee A. Cummings, Christine americanlibrariesmagazine.org. and Korytnyk Dulaney, Mary L. Hastler, Ben Allen Hunter, Also online is our Midwinter Meeting Wrap-Up, high- Jasmina Jusic, Susan H. Polos. Intern: Lisa Anne Romano librarians Editorial policy: ALA Policy Manual, section A.8.2 lighting speakers and sessions from the conference. INDEXED With Preservation Week at the end of April, there are again Available full text from ProQuest, EBSCO Publishing, are two commentaries on the topic that are well worth H. W. Wilson, LexisNexis, Information Access, JSTOR. a read: school librarian Amy Harpe’s guest column on thinking SUBSCRIBE preserving endangered cultures and traditions through Libraries and other institutions: $74/year, 6 issues, US, ahead and Canada, and Mexico; foreign: $84. Subscription price for story (p. 48) and Nicole Umayam of the Arizona State individuals included in ALA membership dues. 800-545- Library, Archives, and Public Records, who writes about 2433 x5108, email [email protected], or visit ala.org. adapting Claim missing issues: ALA Member and Customer Service. digital preservation of endangered languages (p. 25). Allow six weeks. Single issues $7.50, with 30% discount American Libraries has been gathering your feedback to new for five or more; contact Carrie Smith, 800-545-2433 x4216 or [email protected] through online surveys this year, with one more arriving later this spring. We’ll delve into the results in the coming innovations PUBLISHED American Libraries (ISSN 0002-9769) is published 6 times months to see how we’re doing and what we can do and user yearly with occasional supplements by the American better. But no need to wait for a survey; we invite feed- Library Association (ALA). Printed in USA. Periodicals postage paid at Chicago, Illinois, and additional mailing back anytime, anywhere. Just not via virtual reality—yet. needs. offices. POSTMASTER: Personal members: Send address changes to American Libraries, c/o Membership Records, ALA, 50 E. Huron St., Chicago, IL 60611. ©2018 American Library Association. All rights reserved. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced or republished without written permission from the publisher.

americanlibrariesmagazine.org | March/April 2018 3 from the PRESIDENT

Fight for School Libraries Student success depends on them

ibraries constitute an ecology of learners. Students view libraries as a positive and educational, research, and community essential part of their lives. services. In this environment of inter- The American Library Association’s American dependency, we, as a family of libraries, Association of School Librarians (AASL) National must embrace advocacy for school School Library Standards for Learners, School Llibraries as foundational to the success of our Librarians, and School Libraries provides inte- collective work for students who love to read, as grated frameworks essential to these and other we prepare them for college, career, and life. core competencies. The Common Beliefs are: We must all fight the closing of school 1. The school library is a unique and essential libraries, the reductions in professional staffing, part of a learning community. Jim Neal the erosion of budgets for resources and tech- 2. Qualified school librarians lead effective nology, and the consequent weakening of the school libraries. librarian–teacher partnership in the classroom. 3. Learners should be prepared for college, We must advocate for the federal funding that career, and life. supports network access in schools. We must con- 4. Reading is the core of personal and academic tinue to document and demonstrate the powerful competency. link between student success, educational enrich- 5. Intellectual freedom is every learner’s right. ment, and well-supported school libraries. 6. Information technologies must be appropri- We all want students who know how to look ately integrated and equitably available. for information, evaluate sources, organize Steven Yates, 2017–2018 AASL president, in research results, present ideas and conclusions, his January/February column for AASL’s journal and document their work. These are lifelong Knowledge Quest, calls for expanded and robust skills. They strengthen communities and promote collaboration to advance and enrich the work civic engagement. They enrich lives. They trans- of school libraries, including strengthening The form learning. They enable public libraries and relationships with other ALA divisions that work academic libraries to be more effective. with children and youth, as well as working more success School libraries are about reading and under- closely with the ALA Washington Office. As Yates of all standing, about critical thinking and problem writes, “these partnerships are built on the belief solving. They are about research and writing, the that we can change the world every day.” libraries ability to evaluate sources, and the exploration of I propose to convene a meeting in Chicago of diverse perspectives and experiences. representatives from across the school, public, and will School libraries are about active learning, the academic library communities, as well as teachers, depend ability to analyze, synthesize, and work collabo- school administrators, and students. The focus ratively. They are about information skills in con- will be on the state of school libraries, the work to on the text and about a shared information vocabulary. demonstrate value and impact, and an outline to They are about working online, using technology expand strategy that builds community-wide artic- essential appropriately, and making good choices. ulation, investment, and advocacy. School libraries are about innovative tech- I am interested in your comments. Contact me work of nologies and creative spaces. Through school at [email protected]. school libraries, students understand issues like privacy, confidentiality, intellectual freedom, open access, JIM NEAL is university librarian emeritus at Columbia libraries. fair use, and how these relate to their work as University in New York.

4 March/April 2018 | americanlibrariesmagazine.org from our READERS

I might have Our Cover Story for $500, Alex gasped when I’m guessing I’m not the only I saw this cover person perturbed by the word in my mailbox on the cover (“The Badass yesterday. Librarians of Jeopardy!,” Nov./ Dec., p. 32). While in the context #librarylife of a book title, say about Tim- #jeopardy buktu [The Bad-Ass Librarians #myfavoritethings of Timbuktu: And Their Race to @LEANN_NR in Save the World’s Most Precious response to “The Manuscripts], it is a bit less in Badass Librarians your face. of Jeopardy!” I’m showing my age, I know, (Nov./Dec., p. 32) but I’m not comfortable having a word which, in the days of the Alexandrian library, was looked profiling!” or “Who does Alex Two of my on with disfavor. In the magazine, Trebek think he is?” Necessary Self-Care passions, art and sure. In a book title, if it works the David K. Phillips Great observations, Meredith libraries, in one McDade, Texas best. Not trumpeted out on the (“Less Is Not More,” Nov./Dec., article! Love this front cover. p. 56). Compassion for oneself Arthur LaRue I was on Jeopardy! My episode is foundational in order to have so much. Boonsboro, Maryland aired May 24, 2007. It was so compassion for others. Self-care @LIBCLARIAN in much fun, but it was also a little is a political act—and easier to do response to “Saving My wife, a retired school librarian disconcerting that the show if you are in a union. Our Murals” (Nov./ of 39 years’ service, and I, a actively recruits librarians. A book chapter on this same Dec., p. 18) retired salesman of books to col- After I’d forgotten about topic that might be of interest leges and libraries for 35 years, taking the test and being one to the profession is “Avoiding were watching Jeopardy! when of the finalists, I got a call seven Autoethnography: Writing Margaret Miles appeared. I months later letting me know I Toward Burnout” by Benja- nearly went through the screen had made the cut. One month min Harris (from a book that I when Alex Trebek remarked after that, I found myself at Sony coedited, The Self as Subject: that she had the demeanor of a Pictures Studios in Culver City, Autoethnographic Research into librarian. Canadians used to be California, spending the day with Identity, Culture, and Academic considered genteel. It begs the 20 really nice people from all Librarianship). One of the rea- question, what does a librarian over the country. Anyhow, what a sons for writing this book was to “look like”? trip to see your cover story! show that the autoethnographic I wish that [the writer] Ms. Let me add: My goals for being method is one that can uncover Ford had addressed that sexist on the show were to tell a good problems that seem to be hidden and stereotypical moment personal story (check!) and make in most LIS curricula, and to with Ms. Miles. It would have it to “Final Jeopardy!” (check!). inspire others to use it. We need been a golden opportunity Pauline Harris to learn about the real and lived for your magazine to cry “Job San Francisco experiences of librarians, and this

FOLLOW US: @amlibraries facebook.com/amlibraries pinterest.com/amlibraries WRITE US: The editors welcome comments about recent content, online stories, and matters of professional interest. Submissions should be limited to 300 words and are subject to editing for clarity, style, and length. Send to [email protected] or American Libraries, From Our Readers, 50 E. Huron St., Chicago, IL 60611-2795.

americanlibrariesmagazine.org | March/April 2018 5 Boon. Love method seems to surface a lot of be informative on a basic level, I seeing people these issues. have to comment on the use of Bob Schroeder the word please when respond- exchange books Portland, Oregon ing to sexual harassment. informally. Employees should feel @EINTERVIEW in A Step Backward empowered to claim their right response to “The Thank you for writing this, Michael to be spoken to with respect. Question of Little Free (“UNESCO Withdrawal Will Slow Using the word please gives Libraries” (Jan./Feb., Progress on Global Library Initia- back some of this power to the p. 32), and whether the tives,” The Scoop, Oct. 18, 2017). harasser and implies that there boxes are a boon or The administration’s decision is a choice. No one should be bane to communities to pull the US out of UNESCO is penalized for appearing “rude” in certainly a step backward and the face of harassment. another disappointing move Brooke Boyst toward isolationism. Ypsilanti, Michigan profanity-laced rants on Twit- Sam Boss ter are not a sign of a healthy, Lyndonville, Vermont Angry Twitter Rant vibrant profession. The recent “bout of Twitter While calling Andre Walker a Empower Employees fame” for the self-proclaimed “jackalope” or a “neanderthal” While I found the article on Angriest Librarian, Alex Halp- on Twitter may be cathartic, the stopping sexual harassment ern, raises a number of serious emphasis librarians place on (“Stop Sexual Harassment in Your issues (“Noted & Quoted,” Jan./ social media hasn’t exactly cre- Library,” Nov./Dec., p. 16) to Feb., p. 25). Sometimes angry, ated a wellspring of new library

6 March/April 2018 | americanlibrariesmagazine.org work. To that end, there may be and partisanship. As someone Laurel branch was mistakenly This is totally a grain of truth to Walker’s mus- who is more “right of center” captioned as the Ringling Col- ings about the future of libraries. than the average vocal librarian, lege of Art and Design (“Show a real thing and Halpern can quickly amass I have experienced some of Us Your Beautiful New Library,” a great article. thousands of followers who crave that unwillingness “to listen to, Jan./Feb., p. 16). The photo @CZROSTLIK in response ad hominem attacks, while a respect, and encourage a wide should have been credited to to “Stop Sexual Harass- true Twitter maestro like Donald range of viewpoints.” Janes suc- Sam Kittner. ment in Your Library” Trump has gathered millions of cinctly articulated one of the root (Nov./Dec., p. 16) followers. That being said, there conflicts facing our profession, In “The Question of Little Free are certain challenges facing and my colleagues and I have lots Libraries” (Jan./Feb., p. 32), our country and profession that of questions to consider. Kim Kozlowski was misiden- calling a columnist a neanderthal In the November/December tified as a reporter for the simply cannot fix. issue of American Libraries, I Detroit Free Press and Detroit Curt Friehs noticed a negative response News. She reports only for the Oyster Bay, New York to his column, so I thought I’d Detroit News. reach out and applaud him. I look A Variety of Viewpoints forward to the next one! The place of employment listed I want to thank Joseph Janes Sharon Bolger for Danielle D. Valenzano was for his column “Using Our Belmont, North Carolina incorrect (“People,” Jan./Feb., Words” (Sept./Oct., p. 24). It p. 70). She serves as a library is so refreshing to hear some- CORRECTIONS assistant in the children’s depart- one acknowledge the collision A photo of Prince George’s ment at the Milford (Conn.) between professional neutrality County (Md.) Library System’s Public Library.

americanlibrariesmagazine.org | March/April 2018 7 ALA Appoints Mary Ghikas as Executive Director through January 2020 he American Library Asso- period of transition as she leads critical work in infrastructure, ciation (ALA) Executive organizational development, and technology for ALA.” TBoard has appointed Mary The search process for the executive director will resume in Ghikas as executive director spring 2019 after the position description requirements have through January 2020, effective been finalized pursuant to the spring 2018 membership vote. January 25. Ghikas has been The ALA Executive Board plans to name a new executive serving as interim executive director after the fall board meeting in October 2019. The new director since August 1, 2017, executive director will officially start at the 2020 Midwinter after the retirement of Keith Meeting & Exhibits in Philadelphia, and Ghikas will support Michael Fiels. She was most the orientation and transition process through the 2020 recently senior associate exec- Annual Conference and Exhibition in Chicago. utive director of member pro- Ghikas, who started with ALA in 1995, has her MLS and BA grams and services. Mary Ghikas from UCLA and is a certified association executive recognized “Mary has done an excellent job as interim executive by the American Society of Association Executives. Through- director, and we are pleased to officially name her executive out her career, she has served in numerous library systems director through January 2020,” said ALA President Jim Neal including Chicago Public Library, Los Angeles Public Library, in a January 25 statement. “Mary provides knowledge, expe- Western New York Library Resources Council, and the US rience, and stability to the Association during this important Book Exchange in Washington, D.C. •

First ALA Policy Corps “The past year has brought sweep- merged into a new unit in December: the Members Named ing changes and challenges to policies Library and Research Center (LARC). Twelve library and information profes- that ALA has advocated for, from net Kathy Rosa, former ORE director, will sionals have been selected to participate neutrality to federal library funding to serve as director of LARC. in the inaugural ALA Policy Corps, privacy protections,” said Neal in a Jan- LARC will combine the services of which aims to develop a cadre of experts uary 4 statement. “It is imperative that ORE and the Library, eliminating over- with deep and sustained knowledge information professionals have a voice, laps. Research center staff will continue of national public policies in areas key not only in defending, but in shaping to do original research about the status to ALA’s strategic goals. In addition to national policies that impact our patrons, of libraries and librarians and continue cultivating issue expertise, the cohort our profession, and our nation. This first to partner with federal agencies and will receive training in public speaking, cohort exemplifies diversity from across other research groups to improve access media engagement, and other skills library types and geography, as well as a to data about libraries and librarians. needed to be effective library advocates. breadth of policy expertise and passion The library will continue to assist staff, ALA President Jim Neal launched the that represents our profession.” librarians, and others in locating a program in October 2017 as an extension Read more about the inaugural cohort variety of needed information. During of the Libraries Transform/Libraries Lead at bit.ly/2018PolicyCorps. More informa- the transition, both ORE and ALA Library campaign. The corps is grounded in the tion on ALA Policy Corps is available at general email inboxes will remain active. Libraries American National Policy Agenda for Libraries that bit.ly/ALAPolicyCorps. emerged out of the Policy Revolution OIF Expands Selection Initiative (bit.ly/ALAPolicyRev) and is ORE and ALA Library Merge Policy Toolkit designed to build on other ALA profes- The ALA Library and the Office for The Office for Intellectual Freedom (OIF) sional development programs. Research and Evaluation (ORE) were has expanded and updated its selection Photo: Rebecca Lomax/ Rebecca Photo:

8 March/April 2018 | americanlibrariesmagazine.org MAR. 4–10 Teen Tech Week ALA Members to Vote on teentechweek.ning.com MAR. 11–17 Executive Director Qualifications Sunshine Week sunshineweek.org ssociation members will decide on a resolution—to be included in the 2018 general election ballot, opening March 12 and closing April 4—to MAR. 20–24 Adetermine whether the Association’s executive director should be Public Library Association required to hold an ALA-accredited master’s degree or a Council for the Accred- Conference | Philadelphia itation of Educator Preparation (CAEP)–accredited master’s degree with a spe- placonference.org cialty in school library media. APR. The resolution will be added to the ballot as a result of a successful member- School Library Month led petition, which seeks to overturn a November Council vote of 115 to 34 (with ala.org/aasl/slm two abstaining) to make an ALA- or CAEP-accredited master’s degree pre- APR. 8–14 ferred rather than required for the position. This vote reversed a January 2017 National Library Week Council resolution. bit.ly/ALAnatlibweek To overturn a Council action, 25% of ALA’s voting membership must cast a vote, and a simple majority will determine the outcome. Members in good APR. 10 National Library standing as of January 31 will be eligible to vote. Results will be announced on Workers Day Wednesday, April 11. ala-apa.org/nlwd The November Council vote was undertaken on the recommendation of the ALA Executive Director Search Committee and Executive Board after the initial APR. 11 search concluded unsuccessfully, with no viable candidate among the 17 quali- National Bookmobile Day fied applicants. The change was endorsed by 10 of the 11 ALA divisions. bit.ly/ALABookmobileDay Documents and discussion related to the previous council votes are available APR. 21–28 at connect.ala.org/council. • Money Smart Week bit.ly/ALAmoneysmartweek

APR. 22–28 Preservation Week policy toolkit, which helps libraries National School Library Standards. Three ala.org/preservationweek ensure that they have essential policies in grants of $2,500 each will be awarded APR. 30 place to protect against censorship when annually to AASL affiliate organizations El día de los niños/ materials are challenged. for the planning and execution of an El día de los libros “Selection and Reconsideration Policy event, initiative, or activity focused on the dia.ala.org Toolkit for Public, School, and Academic implementation of the new AASL National MAY 1–7 Libraries” is designed for libraries of all School Library Standards. Choose Privacy Week types and sizes and offers practical guid- Two 2018 grants, sponsored by Roger chooseprivacyweek.org ance and resources on responsibility for and Susan D. Ballard, will be awarded to selection, selecting controversial materi- affiliates in honor of AASL Past Presidents MAY 7–8 als, and reconsideration requests. Judy King and Ruth Toor, and the third National Library Legislative Day The toolkit is available online at bit.ly/ grant, sponsored by Cassandra Barnett, ala.org/advocacy/advleg/nlld OIFselectiontoolkit. will be awarded to an affiliate in honor of JUNE AASL Past President Barbara Stripling. GLBT Book Month AASL Introduces Standards Applications for the inaugural grants ala.org/glbtbookmonth

Implementation Grants will open March 5 with a deadline of JUNE 21–26 The American Association of School April 18. Recipients will be notified by ALA Annual Conference and Librarians (AASL) has launched the May 1. More information will be posted Exhibition | New Orleans AASL Past-Presidents Planning Grant for at ala.org/aasl/awards. alaannual.org

americanlibrariesmagazine.org | March/April 2018 9 UPDATE

Misty Copeland Chairs 60th National Library Week

uthor and American Ballet Theatre Principal Dancer Misty Copeland is this year’s National Library Week honorary chair. AShe is the author of two bestselling adult books, and coauthor, with Christopher Meyers, of Firebird, the 2015 Coretta Scott King Illustrator Book Award winner. (Read her February 1 interview with American Libraries at bit.ly/ALCopeland.) National Library Week (April 8–14) will mark its 60th anniversary this year with the theme “Libraries Transform: Libraries Lead,” remind- ing the public that libraries of all types serve as community compasses that lead users to endless opportunities for community engagement, enrichment, and development (see our feature on page 34). Celebrate the week with Copeland’s new READ poster (right), as well as a limited edition poster honoring the themes of all 60 National Library Weeks so far, available from the ALA Store (alastore.ala.org). •

2018 Leadership Institute Best Practices for Librarians,” starting on undertaken between July 1, 2018, and Applications Close Soon Monday, March 12. Library consultant June 30, 2019. Applications for the 2018 ALA Lead- and mobile technology expert Nicole The Diversity Research Grant consists ership Institute (August 6–9 in Itasca, Hennig will highlight some of the best of a one-time, $2,500 award for orig- Illinois) are open through March 9. The technologies to protect your security and inal research. A jury of ALA members four-day immersive leadership develop- privacy, and guide participants through will evaluate proposals and select up ment program for midcareer librarians the process of creating a security and to three awards, and grant recipients will be led by ALA Past-President Mau- privacy plan. The course will cover: will be announced ahead of the 2018 reen Sullivan and library and leadership ■ protecting your data Annual Conference and Exhibition in consultant Kathryn Deiss. ■ authentication New Orleans. Researchers are invited to Now in its sixth year, the institute ■ breaches and identity theft present interim findings at the News You helps future library leaders develop and ■ privacy Can Use Diversity Research Grant Update practice their leadership skills in areas ■ looking to the future and making a held at each Midwinter Meeting & Exhib- critical to the future of the libraries they security plan its and are asked to publish findings in a serve. It offers participants an opportu- Register through the ALA Store publication of their choosing within one nity to delve into leadership practices, (alastore.ala.org). Participants will need year of completing their project. concepts, and frameworks, and to shape regular access to a computer with an Proposals are due by midnight Central their own sustainable vision while build- internet connection. time on April 15. For a complete list of ing a learning community and network. criteria and proposal instructions, visit Details, guidelines, and the applica- Apply for a Diversity ala.org/research/larks/diversity. tion are at bit.ly/ALALeadershipInst. Research Grant Participation includes a free one-year The Office for Diversity, Literacy, and Dawn Abron to Head YALSA’s membership in the Library Leadership Outreach Services is seeking propos- Teen Programming HQ and Management Association (LLAMA). als for the Diversity Research Grant The Young Adult Library Services program. Applications should focus on Association (YALSA) has selected Dawn New Online Privacy E-Course research projects that address critical Abron, creative space/teen services coor- ALA Publishing eLearning Solutions gaps in the knowledge of diversity, dinator at the Zion-Benton (Ill.) Public will offer a new, five-week facilitated equity, and outreach issues within library Library, as the new member manager e-course, “Online Privacy and Security: and information science and that will be for its teen programming database, Teen

10 March/April 2018 | americanlibrariesmagazine.org UPDATE

Programming HQ. Abron will serve a one-year term through January 2019. The mission of Teen Programming HQ Petition Candidates for Council is to provide a one-stop shop for finding and sharing information about library he following individuals have filed petitions for positions on the ALA Council programs of all kinds for and with teens. Tfor the 2018 ALA Election: It also promotes best practices by featur- Shannon DeSantis Eboni M. Henry Lisa Richland ing user-submitted programs and enables School Library Media Branch Manager Director members and the library community Specialist District of Columbia Floyd Memorial Library to connect with one another to support Peoples Academy Public Library Greenport, New York and display their efforts to continuously Middle Level and Julius C. Jefferson Jr. Alexandra P. Rivera improve teen programs. High School Section Head Student Success To learn more about Teen Program- Morrisville, Vermont Library of Congress and Community ming HQ and how to contribute content, Washington, D.C. Selina Gomez-Beloz Engagement visit hq.yalsa.net. Library Director Sam A. Leif Librarian Crown Point (Ind.) Assistant Director of University of Michigan Operations Sally Yates to Open Community Library Library, Ann Arbor PLA Conference University of Nevada, Las Vegas Former US Deputy Attorney General Rhonda K. Gould Donald Welch Executive Director Sally Yates will headline the Public Johana Orellana Manager, Learning Walla Walla (Wash.) Resource Center Library Association (PLA) 2018 Confer- Adult Services Librarian County Rural North Richland Hills (Tex.) Fortis College ence’s Opening Session on March 21. Library District Public Library Grand Prairie, Texas Yates served as Deputy Attorney Gen- The period for filing petitions ran from October 4–December 6, 2017. A eral in the US Depart- complete list of candidates for ALA Council can be found at ala.org/aboutala/ ment of Justice (DOJ) governance/alaelection. under President Obama Ballot mailing for the 2018 ALA election will begin on March 12 and will run from 2015 through through April 4, with the results being announced on April 11. Individuals must Sally Yates 2017, and then briefly be members in good standing as of January 31, 2018, in order to vote in the as Acting Attorney General under Presi- ALA election. • dent Trump. As Deputy Attorney General, Yates was responsible for overseeing all facets of the DOJ’s work, including pros- ecution, litigation, and national security recognize the best promotional materials library staffers serving small, midsized, components. During her tenure Yates produced by libraries in 2017. or rural communities to attend a free spearheaded changes at the DOJ focused Entries will be evaluated based on learning series to learn to lead produc- on reforming the criminal justice system. content, originality, and design by a team tive conversations in their communities. The PLA Conference, held biennially, of experts in marketing, public relations, Through Libraries Transforming will take place March 20–24 in Phil- graphic design, and communications. Communities: Models for Change, adelphia. Actor and comedian Hasan Each library may submit a maximum library professionals may participate in Minhaj, best known as a correspondent of five entries. Winning entries will be three online learning sessions and one on The Daily Show, and Elizabeth Gilbert, displayed during the PR Xchange Event in-person workshop, all free of charge, author of Eat Pray Love, will also speak at at the 2018 ALA Annual Conference and between February and June. the event. Exhibition in New Orleans. Registration for the three webinars Submission forms, guidelines, and is open at bit.ly/LTCsmall. Each session Submissions Open for answers to frequently asked questions will be archived for free on-demand PR Xchange Awards are available at bit.ly/PRXchangeAwards. viewing at programminglibrarian.org. The call for submissions for the 2018 PR Individuals who view all three webinars, Xchange Awards competition, sponsored Conversation Workshops live or recorded, will be invited to attend by the LLAMA Marketing and Communi- for Small Libraries a free preconference workshop at the cations Community of Practice, is open ALA, PLA, and the National Coalition for 2018 ALA Annual Conference in New through March 20. The competition will Dialogue and Deliberation invite public Orleans on June 22.

americanlibrariesmagazine.org | March/April 2018 11 from the CANDIDATES

Wanda Brown Director of library services, O’Kelly Library, Winston- Salem (N.C.) State University | wandaforala2019.com CANDIDATE FOR ALA PRESIDENT

he American Library success of others and to support life- profession and our citizenship. We Association’s (ALA) pres- long learning. We must take respon- should fight to eliminate producers idential election comes sibility for our role in educating and of fake news, to educate consumers at a challenging time for defining what teaching looks like— about the veracity of various news libraries, librarians, and including mentoring and coaching outlets, and to exhibit a strong ethical Tlibrary workers. Our libraries are new professionals on our values and approach to providing our stake- under fire. ideals—for all different learners. holders with useful and accurate Many of our funders and constitu- Inclusiveness. When we truly wel- information. ents do not understand the role of the come and value all the voices we bring Professional development. I value modern library and the tremendous to the table, we practice what should professionals who invest in their per- impact we have on the communities be at the very heart of our profession. sonal growth and the institutions that we serve. As members of a profession Inclusion should be seen to broadly support continual learning opportu- that has so much influence and shares encompass multiple characteristics nities. I appreciate a strong collabo- in the dissemination of information, from different perspectives to ensure rative approach to working with our librarians and library workers need to that social justice prevails. patrons, our community, and each demonstrate the value and relevance Intellectual freedom and infor- other. This is especially important for of libraries to our stakeholders. We mation literacy. A well-informed our membership. Our associations can do this by leaning on our member community of critical thinkers who are only as strong as those who serve associations on the national, state, are free to express their opinions is and give to them. It’s the real joy of and local levels. at the core of what we value in our belonging. It’s the sense of pride that Our ability to demonstrate value is we get when we give. essential to our survival. Educating If elected ALA’s 2019–2020 and teaching others how to advocate Our libraries are president, I will bring leadership for our patrons, our communities, and experience, a voice to represent our our profession is critical for future under ﬁre. It is profession in addressing current success. As a candidate for ALA pres- vital for ALA to issues, and the determination to ident, I am passionate about working promote the importance of libraries to bring about that change. I recog- demonstrate as successful contributors to our nize that our strength is our willing- society. As the professional organiza- ness to work together and to partner the importance tion representing America’s libraries, in building a stronger future. of our role in a it is vital for ALA to demonstrate the Here’s where I will concentrate my importance of our role in a complex efforts to ensure this future: complex world and dynamic world of information. Education. Libraries are built Our strength lies in numbers. Let’s around the desire to enable the of information. be a partner in a stronger future.

ALA ELECTION VOTE: March 12–April 4. More information at bit.ly/ALAelection18

12 March/April 2018 | americanlibrariesmagazine.org from the CANDIDATES

Peter Hepburn Head librarian, College of the Canyons, Santa Clarita, California | peterforala.org CANDIDATE FOR ALA PRESIDENT

e know from ALA’s ALA remains a large, complex A strong association is one that successful Libraries association, and the next executive fights for the needs of our users, our Transform cam- director will need an able partner communities, our institutions, and paign the ways in the role of president—one who ourselves. A healthy association is in which libraries understands the organization and one that promotes the core values of Wmake a difference in our lives. what will be needed for it to maintain our profession. A sustainable asso- Libraries also sustain individuals, stability and even achieve growth. ciation is one that has the financial communities, and institutions. We As your ALA president, my goals and organizational stability in place are champions of fact at a time when are to: to allow it to do its important work false information is readily commu- 1. support efforts to maintain and in the service of its members, on nicated. We are critical to bridging grow ALA’s membership base behalf of libraries. equity gaps in order to provide and finances In my time as a member of ALA, information to all users. Even through 2. facilitate the smooth transition I have been active at all levels, political and social turmoil, libraries of the next executive director from the ALA Executive Board and endure, and in so doing, enable our 3. ensure that valuable ongoing Council to the divisions and round diverse communities to do the same. initiatives—particularly the work tables. I have demonstrated a steady, To thrive, libraries and library of the Task Force on Equity, Diver- sustained commitment to our Asso- workers need a strong and healthy sity, and Inclusion and the Task ciation through my participation professional association that advo- Force on Sustainability—continue on numerous committees and task cates for us and for those who come toward completion forces. For more than 30 years I have to our facilities or who use our online 4. continue work started by current worked in various roles in academic resources, enabling them to benefit ALA leadership to examine and and public libraries, from shelving from the wide range of services we change the organizational books to chairing a library board to offer. Within our library community, structure of ALA managing a college library. we must have an association that is My experience gives me the itself sustainable. The very sustain- A healthy foundation to lead ALA as we work ability of ALA forms the center of my together to cement our shared candidacy for the ALA presidency. association legacy, ensure the Association’s sus- ALA is at a crossroads. Member- tainability, and magnify its impact ship is down, conference attendance is one that on our libraries, our communities has fallen off in recent years, and promotes the and institutions, our patrons, and Publishing has struggled to set and our colleagues working in libraries. reach budget targets. Most crucially, core values of I am keen to do this work on the search for a new executive direc- behalf of the profession. I ask for tor will begin again in 2019. our profession. your vote.

ALA ELECTION VOTE: March 12–April 4. More information at bit.ly/ALAelection18

americanlibrariesmagazine.org | March/April 2018 13 Librarians at Multnomah County (Oreg.) Library (MCL) recommended Shop Class as Soulcraft: An Inquiry into the Value of Work by Matthew B. Crawford for the owner of an anvil- and-flames tattoo.

brainstormed possible book matches, and logged the results in a shared document. The recommendations were then posted on social media by a point person. “It was a matter of looking at the tattoo, weighing its significance and what the requester has said about the design, and then using those themes to find something that seems right without spending an inordinate amount of time fret- ting over the answer,” says Kastner. The submissions and recommended books ranged from a stylish witch-head tattoo, which the staff paired with Young Woman in a Inked RA Garden, a collection of supernatural Libraries recommend books based on patron tattoos tales by Delia Sherman, to an iron anvil enveloped in flames, which staff paired with Shop Class as BY Phil eaders’ advisory is incredi- campaign, in which it asked Face- Soulcraft: An Inquiry into the Value Morehart bly personal. Finding books book users to tell the library things of Work by Matthew B. Crawford. R a patron may enjoy requires about themselves that could be Some of the submissions were librarians to mine a plethora of used for book recommendations. heartfelt. One patron submitted factors: patron reading habits; The willingness of patrons to share a photo of a tattoo of a butter- tastes in literature, pop culture, and personal stories online—and the fly with the phrase, “A Heart politics; family history; work sched- enthusiasm with which they did Never Forgotten,” which she said ule. Some libraries, however, have so—led Kastner and library assis- represents loved ones who have taken readers’ advisory to even tant Steve Roskoski to search for died. The staff recommended My deeper levels by recommending new ways to conduct specialized Grand father’s Blessings: Stories of books based on a patron’s tattoos. readers’ advisory on social media. Strength, Refuge, and Belonging by “Good readers’ advisory relies In summer 2016, the library Rachel Naomi Remen. on creating a personal connec- launched its tattoo readers’ advi- Hana Zittel, a librarian at Denver tion, and what’s more personal sory campaign, soliciting images of Public Library (DPL), found a simi- than a tattoo?” says Alison Kast- tattoos and the stories behind them lar trend among the tattoo submis- ner, reader services librarian from Twitter and Facebook follow- sions when her library conducted a at Multnomah County (Oreg.) ers. The recommendation process tattoo readers’ advisory campaign Library (MCL). was subjective but methodical. in July 2017 after being inspired by MCL began a tattoo readers’ When it received a tattoo photo and MCL’s program. advisory program as an offshoot story from a patron, a group of five “We had an influx of ones of a successful 2011 social media staffers reviewed the submission,

that had someone reflecting on (tattoos) Library (Oreg.) Multnomah County Courtesy Photos:

14 March/April 2018 | americanlibrariesmagazine.org someone they lost in their life, so we were recommending materials based on working through grief, moving on, and connecting Bookmobiles with that person,” she says. MCL paired a witch tattoo Like MCL, with Young Woman in a 11 DPL conducted Garden, a collection of Date in April that National Bookmobile its tattoo readers’ supernatural short stories Day—part of National Library Week—will advisory exclu- by Delia Sherman. be celebrated. sively on social media and used a team of librarians the library invited patrons to come who reviewed the tattoos, made into the building and show staffers 40 suggestions, and logged them into their tattoos to get recommenda- Length in feet of the bus that Bozeman a shared file that could be accessed tions in person. To help staffers (Mont.) Public Library uses for its bookmobile. by librarians working at multiple do readers’ advisory on the spot, branches. The imagery was import- the library created cheat sheets for ant to the recommendation process, books on love, music, mythology, 1905 Zittel says, but the stories behind relationships, and coming-of-age Year that the first bookmobile in the US was the tattoos had a greater impact. themed topics. introduced. The “library wagon” in Washington “We can certainly go with just “We had about 20 people come County, Maryland, was designed by librarian an image,” she says. “But what we in throughout the month,” says Mary Titcomb, had exterior shelves for books, found to be helpful and meaningful Library Director Sandy Irwin. The and was drawn by two horses. to help create connections between program garnered notice, locally us and the customers was hearing and across the country. Northeast Mississippi Daily Journal Mississippi Northeast the stories.” “We got a lot of national atten- 75 Durango (Colo.) Public Library tion from this,” Irwin says. “That Number of bookmobiles operating in Kentucky, took an altogether different was the strangest thing.” After the state with the highest number. approach for a tattoo readers’ advi- the Associated Press picked up sory program it conducted in Octo- a local newspaper article on the ber 2016. Instead of using social campaign, the library soon found 55,000 media to gather photos and stories, itself featured in USA Today, and Number of miles that Lee County (Miss.) Library’s Irwin was invited to discuss the bookmobile driver, librarian Barbara Carouthers, program on the Jay Thomas Show estimates she has logged since 2006. • “It was a nice way on Sirius XM radio. Patrons and press also embraced to reach other MCL’s and DPL’s tattoo programs. populations and More than 400 people submitted tattoos to MCL, with requests let them know the coming in from as far away as Brazil. The program was featured library is cool.” in local newspapers, Portland tele- TARA BANNON WILLIAMSON, senior vision news, and a segment on Min- librarian at Durango (Colo.) Public Library nesota Public Radio. DPL received

Illustration: Sharon Glick, courtesy of Bozeman (Mont.) Public Library; Photo: Thomas Wells/ Thomas Photo: Public (Mont.) Library; of Bozeman Glick, courtesy Sharon Illustration: Continued on page 17

americanlibrariesmagazine.org | March/April 2018 15 TRENDS

St. Charles (Ill.) Public Library provides local groups with fidget quilts, which are used to reduce anxiety in people with dementia.

Tales, travels, sewing Godinsky says her library’s fidget quilt project was born out of an outreach program called Tales and Travels (see American Libraries, Jan./Feb. 2015, p. 54, and bit.ly/ travtales). Led at the time by librarian Norma Copes, Tales and Travels engages seniors—many of whom are in assisted living or memory care facilities—by bringing several large picture books and fun facts about a specific country to share with residents. While talking about another country one day, Copes noticed that she seemed to be losing her audience: People were exhibiting restless hands and wandering minds. Copes had heard of fidget quilts, and because she knew how Community Fabric to sew, she and her sewing group made several such quilts to have Libraries partner with clubs to create “fidget quilts” available for those who wanted for patrons with dementia them during the program. When SCPL’s Kelsey heard about this charitable initiative, he was BY Bailey ou’ve heard of fidget create and donate them to patrons immediately on board. Brewer spinners. But what about with memory loss and other cogni- “I literally went back to work the Yfidget quilts? In 2015, David tive issues. next day and said, ‘We are doing Kelsey, outreach services librarian By 2050, as many as 16 million this,’ ” he says. at St. Charles (Ill.) Public Library Americans may be diagnosed with SCPL reaches about 250 seniors (SCPL), attended a Reaching Across Alzheimer’s disease. a month through its programming, Illinois Library System (RAILS) pro- Hadi Finerty, senior manager and thanks to several recent events gram where he heard a presenter of education and outreach at at which residents came together mention fidget quilts. These small the Joliet, Illinois, chapter of the lap quilts, which also sometimes Alzheimer’s Association, says fidget come in the form of a wearable quilts and aprons provide needed “One of the strengths apron, are affixed with zippers, but- distraction, especially during of a public library is tons, and other items that people “sundowning.” Finerty explains: can manipulate to help reduce “A lot of times when the sun goes making community nervous tension. The presenter was down, [people with dementia will] Glenna Godinsky, life enrichment get more anxious and start to ask, relationships.” liaison at Gail Borden Public Library ‘When am I going home? When am DAVID KELSEY, outreach services in Elgin, Illinois. I going home?’” When this hap- librarian at St. Charles (Ill.) Public Library Godinsky says her library part- pens, she says, “Fidget quilts redi- nered with an area quilting club to rect them to something different.”

16 March/April 2018 | americanlibrariesmagazine.org TRENDS

to create and stitch, about 50 fidget Godinsky says of her district, “The quilts have been donated to the key thing is that we saw the need to library since summer 2017 to pass meet our patrons where they are. along to those in need. We need to pop up in the commu- “You may not realize you have nity and be the library there.” made an impact with someone This kind of community with Alzheimer’s or dementia, but engagement streams in multiple you definitely have,” Kelsey says. directions, explains Finerty of “They might not engage, but you’re the Alzheimer’s Association. She definitely reaching them.” says that connecting with library leaders has boosted and deepened Using makerspaces her organization’s memory health Another library producing fidget education efforts. quilts is Lafayette (La.) Public “This relationship has opened Library. This past fall, several doors to libraries we’ve never sessions were held in one of its thought of going to,” she says. MCL paired a tattoo memorial- izing lost loved ones with the makerspaces, where visitors could Kelsey says he feels very lucky book My Grandfather’s Bless- assemble their own fidget quilts. that senior patrons welcome the ings: Stories of Strength, Refuge, As a result, a dozen original quilts library into their lives. He says and Belonging. were donated to area assisted-living he believes wholeheartedly that Continued from page 15 facilities. Additionally, the maker- stitching quilt blocks makes a tre- space’s 3D printers helped create mendous difference to the people more than 260 submissions and items such as keys and rings that around us. extensive press, which proved could be sewn onto quilts. “One of the strengths of a public taxing to DPL staff. The strain was Cara Chance, assistant man- library is making community worth it, according to DPL Senior ager of Lafayette’s South Regional relationships,” Kelsey says. “It just Librarian Tara Bannon Williamson. branch, says the events were so makes me feel so blessed and hon- “The news came in to do a popular that the library is doubling ored to do this.” segment on the program, and then its number of sewing machines it went viral,” she says. “We started available for use from six to 12. BAILEY BREWER is a freelance writer to receive submissions from around “It’s really interesting,” says based in California. the world. We then committed to Chance, “because a lot of people get them all done. We wouldn’t come in and they’re impressed by close the building with people still the laser cutter, impressed by the needing help. We did take breaks to 3D printer, but it surprised me how sleep and eat, but that was about it.” many people came in and said, ‘Oh All three libraries have plans look, they have sewing machines.’” to conduct more tattoo readers’ Chance and her 13-year-old advisory in the future. The pro- daughter Aria participated grams were fun for both staffers in a quilt-making session, and patrons, but they also served a practicing what Chance higher purpose. considers a long-lost skill. “Sometimes people with tattoos The two had an excellent can feel excluded or maybe feel experience, so much so that like they aren’t welcome,” says Wil- Aria has gone on to work on liamson. “It was a nice way to reach additional quilts. Aria Chance, other populations and let them “Quilting is like many 13, partici- know the library is cool. It’s not the forms of art,” Aria says. “If pated in a same place you got kicked out of as you just take the time to learn, quilt-making a teenager.” session with plan, and deal with bumps in her mother, the road, you can make some- who is a PHIL MOREHART is an associate thing great.” librarian. editor at American Libraries.

March/April 2018 17 T ENDS

Members of an African drum and dance ensemble lead patrons in a performance routine as part of Rich- land Library's day-long Black History Month Fair on January 28, 2017.

efforts—particularly during Black History Month. Although Richland Library had always offered quality programs, they had not always been a good fit for the audiences we were trying to reach. The African-American History and Cultural Events (AAHCE) committee, composed of four librarians and paraprofessionals of color, was formed. Our goal was to implement at least one program per quarter targeted to the black community. We also planned to supplement and enhance the cultural programming already in place at the main library Every Month Is and branch locations. We began observing Black His- tory Month in January, sometimes Black History Month in conjunction with the Martin Richland Library uses programming and dialogue to Luther King Jr. holiday. This shows that we are proactive. We always put engage the African-American community year-round together a brochure of programs so our efforts aren’t lost on customers. In spring we use National Poetry ichland Library in Columbia, South Carolina, needed a better way to reach its Month and Jazz Appreciation African-American community. Quincy Pugh, film and sound manager, explains Month as foundational themes. Rhow the decision to celebrate black history year-round and start “I Have a Prob- We recruited a local poet and jazz lem with That”—a series of panel discussions that address challenging social issues—has vocalist from Richland Library’s boosted program attendance and engagement among its target audience. literary residency program to help us develop poetry slams, jazz workshops, and live performances. We BY Quincy hen I was hired by opening and anniversary events also host performances with related Pugh Richland Library in 1989 seemed to overshadow much discussions in summer to mark W as its first film and sound of what was planned for Black Black Music Month in June. librarian, I set to work expanding History Month. People noticed and Perhaps our most participatory a nonprint collection for a growing expressed concern. We heard them: program has been our fall forums. system. The library was seeing an We should have been expanding We wanted to address social issues increase in visits and user requests. upon, rather than diminishing, relating to our community, so we During this time our service area efforts to reach the African- premiered “I Have a Problem with was becoming more racially diverse, American community. That: A Roundtable of African- and our library was attempting to Our deputy director asked me American Concerns” in 2004. Under reach more African Americans with to lead a committee to plan adult this umbrella, we have presented materials and programming. programs for African-American discussions on such topics as gang When our new main library patrons—with a focus on increasing violence, voting rights, the cradle- opened in February 1993, grand the attendance and equity of our to-prison pipeline, the Affordable Photo: Richland Library Photo:

18 March/April 2018 | americanlibrariesmagazine.org TRENDS

Care Act, state and federal budget cuts, racial profiling, and wrongful convictions. We have invited local media personalities, politicians, Game of Thrones and scholars to sit on these panels. Our forums have been successful Goes Postal beginning with the very first one, which brought in 120 people and UNITED KINGDOM Fantasy drama Game was aired on a local radio station. of Thrones is being celebrated in a new set of Royal The question posed to us after Mail stamps designed by studio GBH. The set of 15 most presentations is “When is first-class stamps, one of the biggest ever commis- your next one?” or “Where can we sioned by the Royal Mail, comprises 10 main stamps go from here?” and a mini-sheet of five. Key characters from all We depend heavily on the seven seasons are captured in the stamps, each as professionalism of our moderators part of an image that depicts their story arc from to keep discussions on track, but the show.—Design Week, Jan. 3. it’s important to allow ample time for audience members to express GAZA STRIP The girls of the Sokaina School opinions and ask questions of in Deir al-Balah city decided they wanted a library. our experts. Our topics can be Most schools in Gaza don’t have one, and those that emotional, but giving people an do usually have a limited range of books. The stu- opportunity to speak furthers a dents built shelves from wooden boxes and seats sense of healing. We may not have from old tires. UNICEF gave them seed funding of the answers to complicated social $300 US, but it was enough for only 30 books. Then problems, but the library sees a they sought help from nonprofit organizations, need to give voice to them. which donated another 500 books. Their library These programs are the core of opened in early 2017.—UNICEF, Dec. 18. AAHCE’s efforts. We also present targeted events in conjunction TURKEY Garbage collectors in Ankara have opened a public with area filmmakers, artists, and library made up entirely of books once destined for landfills. The storytellers as opportunities arise. library, located in the Çankaya district, was founded after sanita- Essentially, we celebrate black tion workers started collecting discarded books. As word of the history year-round. The committee collection spread, residents also began donating books directly. is able to accomplish big things on Initially, the books were only for employees and their families to a small budget because we are pas- borrow. As the collection grew and interest rose, the library opened sionate about our mission. In return, to the public in September.—CNN, Jan. 15. our community has shown its love through its attendance and support. COLOMBIA A smartphone game seeks to educate children As I prepare to leave Richland about their country’s endangered indigenous cultures. Some Library in June after 14 years as 3.4% of Colombia’s population belongs to 87 different indigenous the chair of AAHCE, our diverse groups that speak 71 languages. The games, known collectively 14-member committee has a as Ancient Wisdom and available for iOS and Android devices, waiting list for interested staff challenge players to learn the languages and cultures of the coun- members. Though the focus of our try’s indigenous groups, which vary from farming communities inclusivity efforts may evolve, I am in the northern Darién jungle to nomadic hunter-gatherers in the confident our library will continue Amazon.—The Guardian (UK), Jan. 5. to meet the programming needs of all we serve. AFGHANISTAN An initiative by the ministries of higher education and telecommunication will establish the country’s first QUINCY PUGH is film and sound man- electronic library to help university students easily access materi- ager at Richland Library in Columbia, als. Its first hub will be at Kabul University, with additional locations South Carolina. in rural provinces.—Afghanistan Times, Jan. 16. Photos: Royal Mail Royal Photos: •

americanlibrariesmagazine.org | March/April 2018 19 TRENDS

Emilio Estevez Actor and filmmaker tackles the library response to homelessness

milio Estevez is no stranger to the library world. Thirty-three years after portraying one of five teens sentenced to Saturday detention in a school library in the 1985 Eteen classic The Breakfast Club, Estevez steps behind the camera to write, direct, and star in The Public, about a group of homeless people who seek refuge in Cincinnati’s downtown public library during a bitterly cold Midwestern winter evening. A staunch library advocate, Estevez spoke with American Libraries about the film, its origin, and his connection to libraries.

What was the inspiration behind And that it’s the fault or shortcom- The Public? I was inspired by a ing of that individual; that he or she moving 2007 essay called “Written did not possess the desire to “pull Off” by Chip Ward, now-retired themselves up by their bootstraps.” assistant director of the Salt Lake Well, first off, you’ve got to have City Public Library System, pub- boots to begin with. I understand lished in part in the Los Angeles Times this is a figure of speech, but let’s (and in full at tomdispatch.com talk about shoes. under the title, “What They Didn’t You and I have shoes. Multiple Teach Us in Library School: The pairs. As do probably most of the Public Library as an Asylum for the people we associate with. We Homeless”). Ward’s essay was not also have computers, some of us hyperbole. We are in the midst of an more than one. A laptop, iPad, political divides who are seem- epidemic. I knew the world Ward and mobile phone, maybe? Now ingly heartless. They view public described: I completed the bulk of imagine that you don’t have any commons like libraries and issues the research for my film Bobby at of those communication devices. like net neutrality with contempt. Los Angeles Public Library’s Central You depend on the local library to Explain the end of net neutrality Library downtown, and Salt Lake access a computer where you can to the homeless person sitting in City Public Library was identical to sign on, usually with a time limit front of that library computer who what I witnessed there. I have car- of two hours depending on the watches his two-hour time limit get ried that section of the Los Angeles waiting list. You have two hours eaten up by slow internet service Times in a folder in my backpack to write emails to your friends, let because the underfunded institu- for the past 11 years, and I show your relatives know you’re still alive tion could not afford the premium it to anyone who asks where the and surviving the latest cold snap, service and extend it to patrons. inspiration for this story originally look for job openings, maybe catch came from. up on your Facebook feed, and read What was it like filming in a work- the news of the day. Two hours. ing library? As we began to prep What obligations do libraries and So, in the context of this ques- the film and meet with Kim Fender, other public spaces have to help tion I would substitute the word director of the Public Library of the homeless and other popula- obligation with moral imperative. It Cincinnati and Hamilton County tions in need? The word obligation is a moral imperative for libraries (PLCHC), library administrators, makes some people uncomfortable. and other public spaces to help the and personnel at PLCHC, it became There are many in this country who homeless and other populations in apparent to them that the library look at the homeless and consider need. If you possess a beating heart, building itself was going to be a their situation “regrettable but inev- that is as close to an inarguable main character in the film. Quite itable since some people are bound statement as you are likely to hear. rightly, they worried that giving us

to fail,” as Ward writes in his piece. Unfortunately, there are many along access could negatively impact the Alexanian David Photo:

20 March/April 2018 | americanlibrariesmagazine.org mission of the public library. I made the library now as an adult and not Zeta (A3) it very clear that my intention was be transported back to my youth. I not to impinge the public right to remember discovering the work of freely access the library, its infor- Edgar Allan Poe when I was 11 or mation, and its resources. It was 12 and digging into everything Poe ODS (A3+) UScan +HD important to convey how seriously I had written that was available at my take the work of librarians and how local library. Only now as an adult important I believe libraries are as do I look back and think Poe was a crucial and essential public com- an odd choice for a young boy. But mons. Fortunately, in the film, there then again, it was the Seventies. are few daylight scenes, as the bulk One dream I have for the film of our story takes place at night after and how we can support our local the library has closed. As the direc- libraries and encourage people to tor, writer, and producer of a crew of “occupy the library” again is to have Fast Scans. Quality Images. Easy Saves. more than 100 people, my challenge a percentage of the proceeds of n ILL compatible n Low maintenance was properly wrapping after a night every movie ticket sold go toward n Minimizes staﬀ time of shooting and making sure that we the public good in the community n Reduces wear on originals left no discernible footprint. where the tickets are purchased. If n High rate of return n Solutions for all budgets this were to be successfully imple- How did you prepare for the film mented, woefully underfunded with regard to learning the intri- branches as well as homelessness Call (240) 215-0224 cacies of the library world? Quite advocacy groups could benefit www.thecrowleycompany.com simply, I would visit libraries and from the success of the picture. quietly sit and observe behavior. There is perhaps no better place on the planet to observe human It is a moral imperative behavior than inside a public library. for libraries and Of course, as I made my intentions known that I would be making a film other public set inside a library, I was met with both suspicion and encouragement spaces to help the by library staff and administrators. homeless and other But ultimately, I was given access to the inner workings and a librarian’s populations in need. day-today routine. I learned quickly that what most librarians went to school to study and earn a degree in has very little practical application To do this will be no small feat. on the floor. A modern-day librarian It will require the help of outside is now a de facto social worker and organizations to create and manage first responder. It’s not unusual for a thoughtful strategy to make librarians to be trained in the use of sure institutions with the greatest Narcan, a nasal application used to need get the necessary support. treat opiate overdoses. And, well, I’m open to ideas and suggestions. What role did the library play in Oh, I almost forgot: I just your life as a youth? What role renewed my passport thanks to does it play today? As a boy, the the passport services provided by library always felt like a safe place PLCHC. Most folks I told about this for me. I could disappear for hours did not know about this service. and be surrounded by infinite possi- That alone makes the library one bilities. It’s impossible for me to visit very cool place, right?

americanlibrariesmagazine.org | March/April 2018 21 TRENDS

“The controversy isn’t that we allow censorship but that a book like The New Jim Crow that does not pose a threat to prison security can land on the restricted list. But the list is not permanent. Public pressure that comes from controversial restrictions will only encourage the reﬁnement of how prisons choose what materials to keep from inmates. “Prison librarians are still librarians. They have the responsibility to respectfully raise their concerns when it appears that an item has been wrongfully restricted. While keeping an open mind and being willing to hear the reasons why a material was restricted, librarians can be a helpful countercheck on the process.”

ANDREW HART, “Librarians Despise Censorship. How Can Prison Librarians Handle That? It’s Complicated,” The Washington Post, January 16.

“Libraries literally aren’t just a place to “The public library in our neighborhood was obtain books for free. They’re one of just across the street, and our father, for the few public spaces left in our society whom cultural education was essential, took where you’re allowed to exist without us there after meals. Each time we borrowed a stack of books and comics for the week. I the expectation of spending money.” believe it was at this time that I understood, AMANDA KILLIAN, @_Amanda_Killian, on Twitter, December 21. even unconsciously, that there are at least two distinct forms of poverty in our societies. The first one, of course, is financial poverty: “I understand there are some who will balk at It is the one preventing us from meeting our this experiment, wondering if the elimination of basic needs, such as housing, food, or clothing. fines poses a ‘moral hazard’? To be clear, I’m not The other one is more insidious because it advocating a system with zero accountability. undermines children’s development at the base. Patrons would need to return their items before It is also a cause of our high rates of school checking out new ones, and still pay for lost dropouts or functional illiteracy: cultural items. I’m advocating a system in which a family poverty. Fortunately for my brother and me, our does not need to choose between dinner and parents understood that the library is precisely using the public library. countering this kind of poverty.” “And so I must ask—what is truly the greater BOBBY A. AUBÉ, “I Am Proof Libraries Are Critical to Solving moral hazard? Having fines or not having fines? Cultural Poverty,” Guelph (Ont.) Mercury-Tribune, January 16. In my view, teaching kids that the library is not an option for the poorest among them is “MY MOTHER HAS GIVEN ME MANY absolutely unacceptable.” GIFTS. THE BEST? A LIBRARY CARD.” ANTHONY W. MARX, “The Case against Library Fines— According to the Head of the New York Public Library,” MEGAN STIELSTRA, The Wrong Way to Save Your Life Quartz, December 18. (Harper Perennial, 2017), page 26.

22 March/April 2018 | americanlibrariesmagazine.org NEW BOOKS from ALA Editions and ALA Neal-Schuman

alastore.ala.org OPINION

Degree or Not Degree The question of the MLIS

nless you’ve been hiding In teaching a history and foundations under a rock in a cave on of librarianship course earlier this year, I Mars with your fingers in asked students to write a paper that sug- your ears, you’ve heard a lot another gested replacing one of ALA’s existing core of discussion and angst about story values with a new one. I was struck by the Uthe search for the American Library Asso- BY Joseph Janes number who nominated “professional- ciation’s (ALA) new executive director. ism”—not objecting to the idea per se but Having just been part of two major lead- rather to the need to require the degree, ership searches, I know how difficult and Organizationally, I’m actually quite which some of them depicted as exclusion- tricky these can be; timing is important, as pleased that those apparatuses were put ary. It led to a stimulating discussion about are the nature of the candidate pool, the into operation; I don’t remember the last the evolution of our master’s degree (pace composition of the committee, the shoes time Council voted on a matter of this Charles Williamson, author of the 1921 you’re trying to fill, and 100 random importance other than at a regular meet- Carnegie Foundation report, Training for factors you might not even have known ing, let alone a grassroots effort to over- Library Service) and even whether it was existed when you started. turn it. It’s good to take these mechanisms worth considering a return to the good old Let me start then by expressing out for a spin now and then, and it’s also baccalaureate days. Mercy. profound gratitude to the members of nice to see a functioning democracy. Of course our master’s degree is import- the search committee. I know several of Operationally, though, this is now a ant. I’ve spent my entire adult life helping them—fine, clearheaded, and experi- mess. This discussion has come at a time people get one, which has rewarded me enced people all—and I also know they of much anxiety about the degree itself, beyond measure. Seeing the myriad and must have done yeoman’s work. These as libraries increasingly seek people with marvelous places my former students tasks are important, time-consuming, other backgrounds and credentials, or have gone in libraries and elsewhere, and and often with little reward other than reposition previously degreed profes- things they’ve done with those degrees, is self-satisfaction because you can’t tell sional work in other roles, not to men- a constant joy. anybody what’s going on. It’s particularly tion quite justifiable student concerns It is not, however, a golden ticket. It no fun when the search doesn’t yield a about the return-on-investment value of would have been (will be?) lovely if the viable result. their degrees. next ALA executive director held the MLIS And because it didn’t yield a viable as yet another example and expression of result, we are now faced squarely with the the breadth and reach of that degree. If question of the professional credential. Much ink and many not, it will demonstrate our respect for the Much ink and many pixels were spilled professional experience and credentials back in January 2017 debating whether pixels were spilled of those from other fields, as we rightly to make the MLIS a requirement for the debating whether demand for ourselves in turn. Assuming, ALA job; the discussion has now been that is, that we can find anybody still will- reopened. Council took up the issue in to make the MLIS ing to take the damn job given all that’s November and voted by a wide majority happened … but that’s another story. to relax the requirement to a preference. a requirement for Predictably, noses were put out of joint the ALA job; the JOSEPH JANES is associate professor at the by that, and a membership petition has Information School of the University of Wash- placed the issue before us all and, in the discussion has now ington in Seattle and author of Documents process, put the search on hold. So here That Changed the Way We Live (Rowman and we are again—what do we do? been reopened. Littlefield, 2017).

24 March/April 2018 | americanlibrariesmagazine.org OPINION

What Is Access without Equity? Addressing the digital divide in communities with endangered languages

unctionally, access involves the in language revitalization can look like preservation, management, and a lot of things, and to achieve accessibil- discoverability of records. But on my ity we need to think through the skills information professionals know development trajectories necessary to do that access does not necessarily mind the work—such as how to use a flatbed Fmean accessibility. BY Nicole Umayam scanner, post a video of a conversation For community-based or other partic- between two speakers to YouTube, or ipatory archive models, digital technolo- make language data machine readable. gies offer a way to meaningfully engage in today’s increasingly online world, they The same tribal populations facing with materials. Yet what good is a digital must exist digitally, and preservation rapid language loss are dispropor- archive if the community does not have and access are critical first steps. But to tionately affected by the broadband internet available? How can an individ- create a space where all stakeholders can divide. About 10% of Americans lack ual fully participate in using or shaping participate, libraries must take a com- access to the FCC’s service standard digital heritage resources if they do not prehensive approach to digital inclusion. of 25 Mbps/3 Mbps, and this disparity have the computer skills, or even the This means access to robust broadband increases to 41% for those living on computers? If the end goal of accessibility service, internet-capable devices, and tribal lands. Tribal libraries often pick is to support community-facing, culturally digital literacy skills. up the slack in providing broadband responsive, and diverse collections, we A few years ago I worked as a consul- access for the community, but they are must first address digital inequity. tant for a tribe that was starting a digital less equipped than mainstream public Many of the tribal libraries that I visit community language archive. With acces- libraries to deliver quality internet ser- in Arizona serve as “culture keepers” sibility as a priority, we collaborated on vice. National efforts to remove barriers of language and records. This role is a metadata schema that would meet the and increase E-Rate participation for crucial, as most of the 194 indigenous informational needs of users. I was taken tribal schools and libraries, such as the languages in North America today, aback, however, when I realized that Tribal Connect Act (bit.ly/2Dsd2ia), are a including many in the Southwest, are many of the elders were not comfortable welcome start. categorized as severely or critically using spreadsheets because of limited It’s no surprise that resource and endangered. There is urgent need for experience with computers. I didn’t financial capacity are major stressors a community-wide, multipronged realize that we needed to start by making for tribal libraries, and many librarians approach to language revitalization— sure individuals had the skills necessary on the ground face the same barriers as including linguistic documentation, to enter and review data. Engagement their patrons, such as limited technical language learning, expanding domains skills. If libraries are to be the spaces for of use, and increasing access through digital preservation and community- archiving and dissemination—and Collections are not based language work, we need strategic resources must be made accessible for a solutions to increase both the literal and wide variety of user types and outputs. merely materials but figurative bandwidth needed for true The abundance of digital technologies digital inclusion. makes this an exciting time for user- spaces for cultural centered and participatory action. In the NICOLE UMAYAM is technology outreach endangered language context, collections reclamation through specialist at the Arizona State Library, Archives, and Public Records in Phoenix. are not merely materials but spaces for engagement with In 2017, she was a member of the Digital cultural reclamation through engagement Inclusion Corps at the National Digital with the records. For languages to endure the records. Inclusion Alliance.

americanlibrariesmagazine.org | March/April 2018 25 IN A VIRTUAL WORLD How school, academic, and public libraries are testing

virtual reality in their communities /// BY Miguel Figueroa

n the past several years, virtual reality (VR) technology has finally begun to fulfill what had long been promised. Traditional VR, which creates environments that allow people to be “present” in an alternative environment, has been advanced by offerings from Oculus, Sony, Google, and Samsung. At the same time, products like Google Cardboard have led the growth of 360-degree video that captures an entire Iscene in which the viewer can look up, down, and around. Instead of just games and entertainment, VR is exploding with news, information, and educational content. Throughout this period of growth and expansion, libraries and librarians have once again demonstrated their adaptability to new information formats and user needs with projects that reflect the various directions VR has moved. Whether it is classroom use of Google Expeditions, new educational spaces and lending programs on academic campuses, or a demonstrated commitment to equitable access to this new technology in public libraries, librarians have taken on VR as a new way to engage their users. In the months and years ahead, library professionals will likely need to consider how VR and 360-degree video fit into their commitments to acquire and organize information, make the informational content of this technology available for reference and citation, and empower users to be both media consumers and creators. For now, through the examples shared by the participants in this interview and examples from across our profession, libraries and librarians are showing how they can innovate using this latest trend in media and information.

26 March/April 2018 | americanlibrariesmagazine.org

Photos: © nasa_gallery/Adobe Stock (background); © nenetus/Adobe Stock (woman) American Libraries talked with six librarians and the director of a VR business to hear about their experiences.

TANIA BARDYN Associate dean and director, Health Sciences Library, University of Washington

JANET COLES Assistant bureau chief, Library Devel- opment Services Bureau, California State Library

KRISTINA A. HOLZWEISS School library media specialist, Bay Shore (N.Y.) Middle School

SARA JONES Director of county library services, Marin County (Calif.) Free Library

JOHN MACLEOD Executive director, XRlibraries (formerly VARLibraries)

EMILY PATRIDGE Assistant director of clinical research and data services, Health Sciences Library, Uni- versity of Washington

ANTHONY SANCHEZ Assistant librarian, research and learning department, University of Arizona

27 Ryan James from Pear Medical demonstrates how to perform heart surgery in the Transla- tional Research and Information Lab in the Uni- versity of Washington Health Sciences Library.

SANCHEZ: The biggest indication that the library could What was the tipping point for getting your embark on providing VR services and equipment came library involved with virtual reality? Did you from the work that Bryan Carter in the University of see signs on your campus or in your commu- Arizona Africana studies department was doing with nity that helped you think more intentionally “The Virtual Harlem Project.” The project (which has gone about bringing VR into the library? through several iterations with Second Life and CAVE game structures) studies the Harlem Renaissance period through digital representations of Harlem, New York, in HOLZWEISS: When I first saw Google Cardboard, I was the 1920s–1930s. intrigued by the simple yet powerful technology. When I The latest version, which uses the Unity game develop- experienced Google Expeditions at an International Society ment platform, allowed the library to demonstrate his proj- for Technology in Education Conference, I knew that this ect using Oculus Developer Kit 2 headsets and get people opportunity could transform education. As a connected excited about the possibilities of VR. educator interested in technology, STEM, and the maker movement, I thought that Google Expeditions would be a JONES: We first became interested in VR in 2016. The wonderful complement to further develop student critical technology was new, but we could see how it would thinking, problem solving, and leadership skills. It could expand our reach in a variety of ways, such as changing also enhance Skype sessions and Flipgrid videos. the perception of public libraries as staid book ware- houses. We have great income and educational disparity BARDYN: In spring 2017, a research scientist booked the in our county. Our goal was to offer VR to our underserved Translational Research and Information Lab—located in the communities, where digital devices are not common and University of Washington (UW) Health Sciences Library—to opportunities to use a new technology like VR would use the data wall in conjunction with Pear Medical software. simply not be possible. He used VR to demonstrate to a medical team how to perform upcoming heart surgery. Our growth rate has been rapid, COLES: We got involved in virtual reality because California given that at least 32 researchers have been introduced to VR State Librarian Greg Lucas visited the Marin County (Calif.) in roughly six months and we’ve begun a VR user group on Free Library and heard about its plans for a VR project campus. Via the user group, the library hosts quarterly meet- targeting underserved communities. He offered funding, ings to demo VR technology from local upstarts and PhD can- which the library used to pilot the statewide project that we didates and faculty involved in VR research and development. have now. Photo: Molly Duttry Photo:

28 March/April 2018 | americanlibrariesmagazine.org through shared funding with outside departments and VR equipment varies by cost and manufac- housed in the library makerspace. My library colleague turer. What was your approach to investing Jennifer Nichols and I built on that funding model by in specific equipment? What factored most continuously getting small institutional grants to buy a significantly in your decision, and did you or couple headsets and computers. We definitely knew we your users test various systems before set- had to start off small, not knowing the exact demand from tling on a particular one? the students and faculty, so we could easily track usage and potential for further investment. Another key feature of seeking out local grant funding was that we were able HOLZWEISS: “Bring your own device” is often a cost- to secure buy-in from other campus entities, such as our effective alternative to schools purchasing hardware, but university IT services and student engagement offices, and some students don’t own smartphones. Since our library not have the perception of a boondoggle. was able to acquire a number of iPad Minis through Unfortunately we didn’t know anyone who could lend DonorsChoose, I explored ways of using them for VR. us a headset, and we didn’t have the ability to travel to Google Expeditions works very well on iPads, but Google demonstration stations, so we were unable to test equip- Cardboard and other viewers offer a more immersive ment before we purchased it. After a few months of offering virtual experience that I wanted for my students. I could the HTC Vive in our makerspace, we decided to dedicate a not see purchasing or fundraising for iPods to use with small room to VR activities and dubbed it our VR Studio. the viewers because the cost was comparable to the iPad This provided a secure place for the equipment, where Minis that we already had. But recently we have been able people could safely use it without bumping into furniture or to acquire a number of iPod Touches. After researching other people. We also purchased an Oculus Rift and set up I ultimately found a company that 3D prints VR viewers another VR station in the room so that users could compare for iPad Minis (yay3d.myshopify.com). I was able to fund the different headsets. these viewers, as well as a Ricoh Theta 360-degree camera, through DonorsChoose. These viewers have worked very COLES: Through the efforts of the state librarian and also nicely but they are large. John MacLeod at VARLibraries, we were able to obtain donations of computers and Oculus headgear from Face- BARDYN: We wanted to provide VR equipment equal to book 360 and Vive headgear from HTC. Both systems are or better than what our users would likely procure inde- used at Marin County. Each has its advantages, but both pendently or already have, which really narrowed down offer a robust virtual reality experience, and more educa- the selection to the best in class or near to it. Since the best tional VR “experiences” have been developed in performance comes at an exponential increase in price, using one or the other of these systems. our IT experts chose the next-to-the-top-level products. Two manufacturers of high-end headsets currently exist— Yay3D VR Viewer Oculus Rift and HTC Vive—and the software ecosystems for iPad Mini are not wholly cross-compatible, so for the sake of flexi- bility we purchased one of each. A dedicated laptop is the brains behind the VR headset with a high-end video card. The faster the video card is, the more complicated the models it can display fast enough to work convincingly in VR, and the models HTC Vive derived from medical imaging are pretty complex.

SANCHEZ: Students working on VR projects in the library had been using the Oculus developer kits for a few years by 2016. Those Google particular headsets Cardboard were purchased Oculus Rift

americanlibrariesmagazine.org | March/April 2018 29 Did you and your team set up any specific or assumed goals for introducing VR into your library? How are you evaluating the benefits of having this technology among the library’s offerings?

HOLZWEISS: We are still very much in the exploration stage in our library using VR. Social studies classes have visited ancient historical landmarks, and students have coded virtual worlds through CoSpaces. As teachers learn more about how to integrate VR into their activities, I anticipate more formulated goals and assessments.

Students at Bay Shore (N.Y.) Middle School BARDYN: An important component of health sciences work participating in a CoSpaces Hour of Code is to connect the information and technology needs of activity are able to drag and drop blocks to National Institutes of Health–funded researchers, but the write their code and see it performed in VR. only way to accomplish this big-picture goal is to focus on smaller areas of innovation that need growth support. Our goal in the health sciences library is to adopt a growth mindset, testing and adopting tools and technologies based on what staff had created a platform called the Oklahoma Virtual researchers are bringing into Academic Laboratory (OVAL), which allowed networked the library to use in our Transla- users to view and annotate 3D assets. This was really “Sessions with tional Research and Information exciting because our library could market this as a teach- Lab. Although we make some ing and collaboration tool to students and faculty, which special-needs equipment available—like a is how we framed it when we went for local grants. Early students saw data wall, Amazon Echo, 360- on, our primary goal was to have some kind of impact on degree camera—we also encour- course curriculum and teaching through VR offerings, and dramatic age users to bring in their own OVAL was an early demonstrator of that. Another goal was technology and devices. This to stress the utility of VR as a creativity tool for things like increases 800-square-foot room acts like painting, drawing, animation, or games, but not the end-all, a collaboration and innovation be-all of technology. in focus and lab that helps researchers—who Our ability to provide curricular outreach grew along work with other professionals— with exposure: through tying assignments to VR software, retention.” solve problems by using tech- supporting class projects, and teaching various VR develop- nology and expertise to improve ment skills through workshops. Assessment has been tricky JOHN MACLEOD health care. so far, particularly since we’ve been so focused on getting Executive director, XRlibraries In the UW Health Sciences the word out and developing our own skill sets. I’ve been Library we are working closely working with another librarian colleague of mine, Niamh with campus partners to design, Wallace, on getting qualitative feedback from students and build, and evaluate spaces and faculty on their experiences with using VR in the classroom. services that accelerate healthcare. These new spaces are frequently needed for access to technology JONES: A specific goal was for our community to get and other expertise, not to mention learning about local experiences it would not get on its own. The equipment and startups and how to obtain funding dollars. We’ve never content is expensive and is mainly purchased by tech-savvy been afraid to sit at the table with those who are different consumers. Our project made it accessible to multiple ages from us, even when commonality seems elusive. and in multiple venues. We have done it in libraries; in outreach at schools, fairs, and with our bookmobile; and even SANCHEZ: One of our early partners in exploring VR was in a fire evacuation center this fall. Matt Cook, head of emerging technologies at the University We need to look at formal evaluations, but it absolutely of Oklahoma Libraries. His team of student developers and cannot be discounted that VR users are amazed, delighted, Photo: Kristina A. Holzweiss Kristina Photo:

30 March/April 2018 | americanlibrariesmagazine.org and awed with the technology, so that in itself is a better where they can explore enrichment activities with their outcome than many services we put significantly more effort students. I also tested with our students during the Hour and funding into providing. of Code event, as well as my student Techsperts and other students who visit the library during their free periods. COLES: The goal for the statewide project was to offer public libraries representing a range of types and geographies PATRIDGE: The test groups brought in their equipment a chance to test this relatively new technology with their and gave us feedback on the space they were using. Once patrons. We are issuing another grant to fund continuance we had an established group using the library space, we of this project and will require participating libraries to then added VR as an interest on our online reservation collect and submit statistics, which we will use to evaluate form. VR is our second-most-requested reason for using demand for these technologies and how they are being used. the space, so our test group is spreading the news by This data will help determine possible future directions and word of mouth. Here at UW, word of mouth and bulletin support for VR projects and programs in public libraries. boards are the most effective ways of advertising.

SANCHEZ: The library hosted a VR symposium in 2017, How did you test or introduce VR to your bringing together faculty, students, and local industry users? Was a specific group the test group? people to demonstrate their VR projects and partici- Was any special outreach extended to com- pate in discussion forums for two days. There wasn’t a munity members? particular test group we were targeting, but our goal was to establish a learning community of enthusiasts, artists, developers, or anyone curious to learn about VR. HOLZWEISS: I began testing with the 6th-grade teachers since I have a good collaborative relationship with MACLEOD: First up to test in most libraries were the youth, them. They have an extra class period during the day while adults and seniors sat on the sidelines. As their

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americanlibrariesmagazine.org | March/April 2018 31 curiosity grew, adults edged out the youth. Youth favored BARDYN: You can increase the effectiveness of your data more interactive content, and adults steered toward expe- wall by having good room-darkening shades or investing riences of being underwater with whales, soaring through in new shades to minimize sun glare. We heard that a table space, or visiting Venice. Special screening sessions for would be helpful in simulating surgery and that the tem- adults in the morning, visits to retirement homes, or ses- perature in the room needs to be adjustable in order to make sions with special-needs students saw dramatic increases it cooler for group use. in focus and retention. SANCHEZ: We came to the conclusion that we needed a dedicated space through trial and error. The original installation It’s easy to think about VR as just a technology, of our first HTC Vive headset was awkward and didn’t allow but what about space considerations (room to enough space or privacy for users. Moving the headsets and set up the equipment, space for users to move computers into a studio space opened up many possibilities, around and react to the technology)? How did like hosting small classes, managing group work activities, you and your colleagues think about creating a and having fixed demos ready to go. We were fortunate VR space in your library? enough to have an underutilized study room next to the makerspace that we could convert into a space with chroma key green walls for mixed reality or multimedia effects, HOLZWEISS: Over the summer, bookcases and furniture VR headsets, and computers. It also indicated to our users were removed from our library to install new carpeting. that the technology was here to stay, and that the library It was a large undertaking to pack up, label, and organize was serious about supporting the services and technology the books as well as reshelve them. I learned, however, surrounding VR. that sometimes “breaking down” offers an opportunity to build up even better. Our library has a makerspace, MACLEOD: Space is a consideration. Libraries had to find a computing space, a classroom teaching area, and a five-by-five-foot clear areas for display and provide a ded- reading lounge. We have wide-open spaces and movable icated staff person to monitor usage. Teens have stepped furniture to accommodate students walking around up in many libraries to become the VR support team. Being enjoying VR technology. Because of our technology’s able to project two-dimensional images of the experience portability, it can be easily stored. enhanced audience appreciation. There was almost always a line and audience for VR screenings. Putting the VR system on a cart provided mobility and adaptability.

How have you trained library colleagues to support users’ interest in VR? Have staff responded in surprising or unexpected ways to this new offering?

HOLZWEISS: Unfortunately, I have only one part-time paraprofessional to assist with the managerial aspects of maintaining a school library. I have a crew of student Techsperts who assist with the makerspace and technology resources in the library. They are adept at teaching others about Google Expeditions and CoSpaces. Teachers appreciate that I have extra hands to assist during lessons, and Students, faculty, and community students are more open members experience VR at the to learning because University of Arizona iSpace during the Tucson Festival of Books. they see what their peers can do. Photos: Travis Teetor Travis Photos:

32 March/April 2018 | americanlibrariesmagazine.org pleasantly surprised at the various ages and technology backgrounds of staff willing to learn. The online community in California supports everyone very effectively. Ulti- mately it’s crowdsourcing VR in libraries so all can participate and contribute that makes it better for all libraries. We were very lucky that our experience took down nearly all the barriers that would have A teen collaborates with others using made this a tough adoption to do all by Facebook Spaces in a virtual design studio ourselves. at San José (Calif.) Public Library’s TeenHQ. COLES: VARLibraries held a series of webinars, and we have worked to publicize PATRIDGE: Even though we are in our beginning phase, it the community of practice. Most people, seems several staffers are quite comfortable with VR and including library staff, find VR an amazing experience know how to use it. By asking these staff members and our and have been eager to incorporate it into their libraries’ test group to help, we can offer training sessions so other programming. We also had an amazing response to our librarians will learn what it is like in the goggles. Right now, application process—much more than we expected. with the way our space is set up, we do require one of our tech people to set up the goggles to make sure they display MIGUEL FIGUEROA is director of ALA’s Center on our six-panel data wall correctly. for the Future of Libraries.

BARDYN: Library systems staff have introduced library colleagues to the headsets and their features and limita- tions. User interest in VR seems to be high. According to our IT staff, hands-on interaction with the Rift and Oculus headsets commonly generates a lot of enthusiasm and leads to brainstorming sessions about how this technology can be used in medicine. It is a pleasant contrast, in what can sometimes be a high-stress profession, to have an offering generate such spontaneous excitement.

SANCHEZ: All of our staff and student employees who work in the makerspace get basic training on the hardware and software for setting up, using, and troubleshooting VR applications. We also host workshops that are open to anyone in the local and university community, staff included. It’s been difficult at times to get everyone on board with the technology, and that’s understandable. The technology is still a little too niche for some groups, and it’s cumber- some to set up and wear on your head for long periods of time. I’m hoping that with more mobile headsets coming, you’ll see people acclimate to the devices at a faster pace, much like smartphones. Some people have become total enthusiasts though, given the cool applications and tools that are out there right now. I just hope that we inspire The Space Report 2017 people to create something thoughtful and creative with VR Download Available! tools, and not confine the VR industry to mindless entertainment or escapism.

JONES: We have had success with using paid students in a technology program called WEBstars, but I have been Photo: XRlibraries Photo:

americanlibrariesmagazine.org | March/April 2018 33 Artwork from the 1958 National Library Week campaign.

hile it’s never been particularly difficult to lament the “ Wake Up decline of reading in Ameri- W can society, the 1950s were a time when literary pessimists found plenty to and Read” be concerned about. A Gallup poll in 1955 found that almost two-thirds of adults had not read to any book apart from the Bible in the previous year. A 1957 survey found that only 17% of “ Libraries Americans were currently reading a book. And spending on books was decreasing, as more of the country’s entertainment dollars went to tele- Lead” visions, radios, and even musical instruments. The American Library Association (ALA) and The 60-year history of the American Book Publishers Council formed the National Book Committee (NBC) in 1954 to National Library Week fight these trends. One of their ideas: a National

BY Greg Landgraf Library Week (NLW).

34 March/April 2018 | americanlibrariesmagazine.org The concept wasn’t new. As Larry T. Nix’s Library History ■ Dozens of cities formed Friends of the Library groups. Buff blog notes (libraryhistorybuff.com/libraryweek.htm), ■ Local libraries in Brooklyn, New York; North Providence, at the 1922 ALA Annual Conference ALA’s Publicity Com- Rhode Island; Omaha, Nebraska; and Portage, Ohio, mittee had proposed a weeklong celebration of libraries. used NLW to start fundraising campaigns to purchase “We should lose no opportunity to spread the gospel of materials or restore bookmobile service. library service in the fight against ignorance, indifference, ■ The library in Bladensburg, Maryland, presented a illiteracy, and inefficiency,” ALA Publicity Committee Chair program with a US Navy rocket expert the day NASA Willis H. Kerr argued that year. Several librarians also launched its Vanguard rocket. testified about the success of state or local library weeks, ■ Headquarters received “enthusiastic wires from state dating back at least as far as Toledo, Ohio’s Library Week in committee heads,” such as “in Mississippi, enlisting March 1916. enthusiastic participation from many outstanding lead- It took more than 35 years for the idea to go national, ers formerly passive theoretical supporters of library.” however. The NBC drew up plans for the first NLW to be Robling also highlighted unusual NLW efforts, such as held March 16–22, 1958. the election of library queens in Arizona and Arkansas or To build support, NLW Director John S. Robling prom- leaflets delivered by milkmen making the rounds in South ised that the event “offers an outstanding opportunity to Carolina. And, he noted, “One tiny library in Kentucky is reach nonreaders and make present readers more active going to get a telephone.” readers,” but warned that librarians had to work to make NLW’s early years also spawned efforts that went beyond the week meaningful to their communities. publicity. The Knapp School Libraries Demonstration The nation responded. The first NLW, with its “Wake Up Project provided a $1.13 million and Read” theme, attracted more than 11,000 newspaper grant to advertise the importance of stories that celebrated libraries, articles in 22 national mag- reading and offer a toolkit to advise azines, 14 national TV and radio stories, and at least 1,500 parents on how to ensure their local TV and radio shows. More than 5,000 communities children had good school libraries. participated, and the US Post Office even included the NLW An estimated 200,000 of these kits theme on its metered postage. were distributed. Robling’s roundup of results in the June 1958 ALA Bulle- Libraries enthusiastically tin reported reactions big and small. For example: reported their activities as the ■ The “favorable climate” created by NLW helped New Jer- program continued to spread in sey’s State Senate to pass a $1.6 million library appropri- the early years. Brooklyn College ation, and New York’s legislature approved a $700,000 Library’s celebration of the first increase in library aid. NLW included a Freedom to

The state committee executive directors for National Library Week

Photos: ALA Archives ALA Photos: at a workshop in Chicago.

americanlibrariesmagazine.org | March/April 2018 35 36 March/April 2018 reduce costs. world addedpressure and to that increase profitability AAP board ofdirectors was substantially diluted.” the for goals,less valueinNBC’s NBCwithin and“support new AAPsaw inthe textbook publishers 1975that in April in ofNBC,asserted executive chairman (AAP).JohnC. Frantz, Publishers aformer American InstitutePublishers in1970to Associationof create the Educational American Councilmerged the Publishers with Book American the after NBC found itselfonshakyground will follow infanticideinto along-forgotten past.” ofintellectual altar barbarism vestals onthe ofthe sacrifice way, it.Either ituporscrub overtones, scrub andeither this emotional andwithout itcritically examine NLWstrip veneer, ofitspseudocultural would ALA of libraries.“We the wishthat NLW emphasized expense reading atthe 1966 Library ScienceinCleveland, argued ina of Western University’s Reserve of School dean The always then JesseShera, irascible However, NLW’s successattracted detractors. Challenges and reinvention last dayfor ofNLW itonthe in1962. Melville opening WhalingRoomthe andheldagrand atown astrong whalinghistory,served with created 1959. New Bedford (Mass.)Free PublicLibrary, which in station train for commuters atthe branch temporary Westport inBrazil. burning (Conn.)Libraryopeneda Read display aBiblerecovered featuring from abook- Frantz publishing ofmergers alsoblamedarash inthe It wasn’t librarianswhonearly took down NLW, however.

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activities such as: activities such present budget.” “constraints ofthe the fall within wouldpromotional that available materials and aprogram foron nationalexposure alimited libraries,” of variety with emphasis willbe “for 1975primary that meeting warned however. onALA’s Fall Areport 1974Executive Board process, hesaid. inthe tion Office [NLW] ALA’s new PublicInforma- andfinance profitable” Nixonfrom the administration. “Iknew we couldmake robust PR program torobust facechallenges PRprogram to libraryfunding ■ Arnold Palmer.Arnold Gene Shalitandgolfer critic like film from celebrities ithadbeensoliciting for twoommendations that years displayedDouglas book rec County(Oreg.) Library In many ways, NLW 1975’s was like any other, including littletimefor NLW, planning1975’s closureNBC’s left worth told worth American Libraries American Director Wedge- Robert itinhouse. decided to bring lossofNBC,asALA the NLWOf course, survived NLW powers on late the followinglate the year. committee folded and the of NBCinDecember1973, cut in1971. hadbeenseverely staff the for several years andthat lems hadbeenbuilding prob- financial NBC’s that 1980 Then-ALA Executive Then-ALA AAP withdrew its support itssupport AAP withdrew that ALA neededamore ALA that - ever produced. Power!” “Information ered the best NLW to bethe program amajority ofrespondents found consid- 550 members that 9,000orders for NLWmore than of Asurvey materials. a“bloodymiracle,” with Director efforts Peggy Barber’s Office member JohnLorenz calledPublicInformation Power!” an“Information posters andbuttons with theme. alsosoldpromotional like materials national media.ALA Valerie stars ( Harper spotsradio TV featuring produced 3,500newspapers, tolibrary stories more than was noeasyfeat, however. maileda“clipsheet” of ALA Carroll O’Connor( Carroll mation age in the 1990s, designing aninteractive 1990s, designing mation age website inthe infor itinto VJ the helpedbring Former MTV Adam Curry NLWSince then, hasgrown into anannualinstitution. Libraries lead the way ■ ■ ■ ■ Acting Librarian of Congress andExecutiveActing LibrarianofCongress Board NLWProducing anormal circumstances underthe bill. 1976educationappropriations the fundingin forhelped to increased library gain support representatives, congressional which speak to their Thirty-seven librariansdescendedonWashington to Waverly NLW Amnesty Days.” Time, OnceinaLifetime Fine-Free Overdue Wartburg Firstput onaposter) inSome Time, “The Last inaLong to Iowa difficult delightfully hosted named(though the Wartburg andWaverly College Library in PublicLibrary Family.Library a statewide competition New to Jersey selectthe Associationcoordinated The New Library Jersey onitsNLWby Hopiartists poster andbookmark. Associationusedpaintings StateArizona Library 1990 All inthe Family ), andplacedfeatures in Rhoda

) and 2000 - dom, increasing libraryfunding—remain. for NLW—improving literacy, intellectual free- supporting core reasonsspokespeople andsocialmediacampaigns, the and metered have postage designs beenreplaced by famous milkmen the owndevelop skills.Although their leadership role oflibrariesinhelpingpatrons communities andthe oflibrariesandlibraryworkers leadership the intheir is“LibrariesLead,” emphasizes which theme This year’s chair. ashonorary Misty Copelandserving selling author dancerandbest- Ballet Theatre principal American with likes andJudyBlume. ofNeilthe Gaiman,JohnGrisham, in2008,ledby actor JulieAndrewsstarting andfollowed by chairs ashonorary by serving support their formalized Action for LibrariesDay (introduced in2017).Celebrities National BookmobileDay (introduced in2010),andTake National LibraryWorkers Day (introduced in2003), from 1993to 1996. “LibrariesChange ineffect Lives” the to theme support stories their President andVice AlGore sharing Etheridge, Beverlyauthor Cleary, actor Alfre Woodard, singer Melissa David Brinkley, 50,includingjournalist more than with support— to lendtheir luminaries top-flight recruited ALA Internet Archive Waybackthe bit.ly/nlwcurry.) Machine: tono longer you available, canstill seeitthanks although LibraryDay.”a special“Log-on@the (Thewebsite issadly internet during publictoto the helplibrariesintroduce the In 2018,NLW April 8–14, anniversary celebrates its60th week to the expanded encompass 21st century In the americanlibrariesmagazine.org | American Libraries. GREG LANDGRAF

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March/April 2018 37 Engaging Civic-Minded Teens Data literacy fosters YA participation and innovation

By Terra Dankowski

38 March/April 2018 | americanlibrariesmagazine.org ake news. Alternative facts. Information literacy. To be a library professional in 2017 meant you were never far from Fthese terms. Many institutions addressed them head-on with awareness campaigns, continuing education, and programming. But what about data literacy? Did librarians tackle charts and graphs as much as headlines? And what about teens, who are often overlooked in the context of civic and voter preparedness? Increasingly, librarians are addressing these questions by bring- allowed for more inti- macy with the data,” ing statistical education and opportunities to young adults—and says Wilson. “And they’re a they’re using massive collections of open civic datasets to teach great way to disseminate information.” To familiarize students with differ- these lessons. American Libraries highlights a few libraries improv- ent types of qualitative and quantita- ing students’ comfort with infographics, supporting instructors, and tive data, each zine was required to have a visualization, map, and survey encouraging teens to become more engaged citizens. or interview. CLP partnered with local journalism organization PublicSource Teaching the basics to teach students data literacy con- “We didn’t start with a premise. We cepts and develop what Wilson calls left the topic up to them,” says Tess “a more critical mind-set.” Wilson, civic information services “The reporters came in and did intern in the digital strategies depart- some demonstrations [and] talked

Photos: Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh Carnegie Library Photos: ment at Carnegie Library of Pitts- to the kids about using databases,” burgh (CLP). Wilson says, noting that the Western Students enrolled in the week- Pennsylvania Regional Data Center long Civic Data Zine Camp at was a favorite local resource among CLP’s Squirrel Hill branch last project authors. PublicSource also summer produced narratives helped students understand the about UFO sightings, shark importance of consulting multiple reli- attacks, and US homicide rates. able sources and the concept of bias in “We had one teen investigate seemingly straightforward datasets. At Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh’s her neighborhood in Pitts- Civic Data Zine Camp, young adults “I think [data] gives teens another burgh,” Wilson says, “so it was learned data literacy concepts by pre- avenue for engagement within their a wide range [of topics].” senting statistical narratives and visu- communities,” says Wilson. “I think it The program, which grew alizations in a handmade zine format. prepares them to make change within out of a project that Wilson systems that rely on data, and that’s a developed while getting kids-teens/the-labs-clp)—funded by really important thing.” her MLIS at University of a grant from the Institute of Museum Though it’s not clear if the Civic Pittsburgh, was an effort of and Library Services (IMLS)—and Data Zine Camp will return as a lab, CLP and the city’s Beyond Data gave attendees a chance to investi- feedback from attendees was positive. Initiative to get young adults ages gate civic matters through research “A couple of them said they loved 12–18 to tell stories with data. The projects presented as zines. everything about the week,” Wilson course was part of The Labs @ CLP “We were really interested in the says. “Having the reporters there also curriculum (carnegielibrary.org/ handmade aspect of [zines]. I think it helped to validate that journey.”

americanlibrariesmagazine.org | March/April 2018 39 Tips for Teaching Teens Data Literacy

Don’t harp on technol- Use relevant or Form community part- Present the results. ogy. Data literacy isn’t localized data. nerships. “We relied It’s important to share about flashy tools. “We “One thing that on our community your teens’ research. found that learning I think is really partners to bring in the “One cool thing about concepts separate from useful to do is an technical knowledge and this particular intensive the technology is really environmental scan,” help us develop a plan,” says was that we were able helpful,” says Tess Wilson, says Kristin Fontichiaro, Christie Lassen, director of to highlight these zines civic information ser- clinical associate pro- communications and part- at Data Day, and they vices intern in the digital fessor at University of nership at Howard County now live permanently strategies department at Michigan’s School of (Md.) Library System. Orga- in the zine collection at Carnegie Library of Pitts- Information. “Where are nizations that helped with the main branch,” says burgh. The analog nature your students encoun- the library’s hackathons Wilson. She notes that of her zine camp meant tering data? What kind include the Howard Tech this can done on a small students drew maps and of data is in the local Council, Howard County scale, too. “We had a mini graphs themselves— newspaper? What kind Public School System, zine swap on the last day a powerful route of data is shown in the and the local chapter of [of the program] that was to skill building. textbooks that they Girls Who Code. The tech just internal.” • use?” she asks. She then community provided men- suggested meeting local tors and judges, allowing needs by using the types the library to focus on of datasets or visualiza- infrastructure, such as pro- tions that they encoun- viding the venue and pre- ter regularly. programmed laptops.

Building professional capacity Fontichiaro. With help from data Teacher-librarians are well positioned and curriculum experts at the Uni- to impart data literacy to teens, but versity of Michigan, Inter-University who’s giving instructors the resources Consortium for Political and Social and support that they need to do so? Research, and colleges across the empowered, Kristin Fontichiaro, clinical asso- country, she and Oehrli developed and our work- ciate professor at University of Mich- virtual conferences, handbooks, webi- shops show igan’s School of Information, and Jo nars, and discussion questions. that when Angela Oehrli, learning librarian at Materials cover strategies for librarians and educators University of Michigan Library, were introducing teens to data and its usage, know more, they do more.” Materials up for the task. As principal investi- visualizations, and privacy topics, such were designed to be high impact for gators of the two-year IMLS-funded as the implications of data collection by the school librarian who might not project “Supporting Librarians always-on devices like Fitbit or Amazon have time to teach a full lesson. in Adding Data Literacy Skills to Echo. Though the initiative formally The virtual conferences provided Information Literacy Instruction” wrapped in September 2017, all insight into who is interested in (datalit.sites.uofmhosting.net), they deliverables—including the two books, these resources. “The first year set out to design materials for high Creating Data Literate Students and we had over 80 different job titles school librarians looking to foster Data Literacy in the Real World: Case sign up, from folks who work at data and statistical literacy skills in Studies and Conversations—are avail- state departments of education or their students. able for free on the project website. government agencies to classroom “We were seeing on our own “It’s not enough to have open data. teachers,” says Fontichiaro. About campus that data was becoming a You have to have people navigate one-third of the audience consisted powerful mode of expression and that data, know it’s there, and know of high school librarians. wasn’t working in ways that infor- how to use it,” Fontichiaro says. “Our The information climate also mation literacy always works,” says real goal was for librarians to be affected people’s motivation for

40 March/April 2018 | americanlibrariesmagazine.org attending. “In 2016, we asked a registration question: ‘Why is it important for students to be data literate?’ And many people said, ‘Well, they need to make infographics.’ In 2017, the big answer was ‘to participate in elec- tions.’” By demand, a third virtual conference is planned for July. “I believe that an informed democracy makes better decisions, so I think this is a critical life skill,” Fontichiaro says, “especially in the era of artificial intelligence and algorithms.”

Inviting innovation How can we innovate with open data? Middle school students competing as the team “Website Trekkies” were challenged to create a cen- tralized community calendar at the 2017 Civility Hackathon at Howard County (Md.) Library System. Libraries and librarians have a simple answer: Encourage people to use it. Hackathons, well known in the conveyed their ideas in a Google Form, prize will be awarded to the best high academic library community, have and some suggestions were packaged school project. been cropping up more frequently as prompts asking students to build “The data challenge is an estab- at public libraries—and participa- resources that could, for instance, lished method of reaching software tion is skewing younger. In 2016, aggregate the needs of food banks and app developers who can bring Howard County (Md.) Library System and pantries in the area or connect data analysis and visualization skills (HCLS) decided to include the Civility someone unable to shovel snow with a to create new experiences with our Hackathon as part of its community’s neighbor willing to lend a hand. collections,” says Abbey Potter, acting Choose Civility program, where teams Challenges were then scaled to chief of LC’s National Digital Initia- of students in grades 6–12 and college specific age groups. “At every level tives. “Computer programming skills were assigned different civic prob- we had someone who was new to it,” are being taught at an early age, and lems to solve with technology. says Jessing. “The high schoolers and we want to give these young people “We appealed to our community— the college students created a more an opportunity to show what they can private offices, private businesses, in-depth project where they actually do while learning more about legisla- nonprofits—and said, ‘What are chal- used databases and APIs to create tive data and the legislative process.” lenges that you’re facing that could more functional websites.” Some data Drawing its inspiration from the possibly have a technical solution?’” sources used were APIs from Google, successful Congressional App and says Alli Jessing, events and seminars Twitter, and YouTube, as well as data- Chronicling America challenges, LC manager for HCLS. Organizations sets from Howard County Open Data expects to see submissions of visual- and calendars from the school district izations, mobile and desktop appli- and HCLS. cations, websites, and other digital “It’s not enough to “Whatever the outcome is, they widgets or tools, and hopes to feature own that product,” says Jessing, who projects at labs.loc.gov to inspire have open data. You notes that at least one team decided others to use the data. to continue working on its project “High schoolers, like everyone have to have people after the hackathon had ended. living in the United States, are Not too far from Howard County, affected by the legislation of our navigate that data, the Library of Congress is getting in country every day, and giving them an on the act with its Congressional Data inside and detailed look at lawmaking know it’s there, and Challenge (labs.loc.gov/experiments/ will only make them more informed,” congressionalchallenge), a competi- says Potter. “That is the bedrock of know how to use it.” tion inviting participants to develop a democracy.” digital projects that analyze, inter- KRISTIN FONTICHIARO, clinical pret, or share legislative data from TERRA DANKOWSKI is associate professor at University Congress.gov in user-friendly ways. an associate editor at American Libraries. of Michigan’s School of Information The challenge is accepting applica-

Photo: Dennis Wood/Howard County (Md.) Library System (Md.) Library County Dennis Wood/Howard Photo: tions through April 2, and a $1,000

americanlibrariesmagazine.org | March/April 2018 41 We’ve All Been

There Conducting effective difficult conversations

BY CATHERINE SOEHNER and ANN DARLING

This is an excerpt from Effective Difficult Conversations: A Step-by-Step Guide by Catherine Soehner and Ann Darling (ALA Editions, 2017).

42 March/April 2018 | americanlibrariesmagazine.org t some point in our work life, we all must con- front that most dreaded situation: the difficult conversation. There Aare numerous examples from all rungs of the organizational ladder. We might find people who are not fulfilling the requirements of their positions, who are regularly negative, who bully people, or who are frequently late for their shift. As a leader, you must have difficult conversations with these people to address, and hopefully remedy, these behaviors. The situation can be managed in a compassionate and direct manner to create an effective conversation and a working solution. To begin, we must define the difficult conversation. What is a difficult conversation? For a conflict-avoidant person, it is any conversation that produces anxiety, that worries you, or that you have put off, and in which you are certain the other person will not like what you are saying. For a straight shooter who is not afraid of confrontation, a difficult conversation may become one in which, after “telling it like it is,” the other person becomes hostile, combative, or worse.

Different kinds of difﬁcult conversations A difficult conversation entered without reflection can become a difficult situation, and it may only go downhill from there. But what is difficult is in the eye of the beholder—or rather, the mouth of the speaker. However, some generalizations and common examples are: Telling people they will not be retained or did not get a promotion. Hiring and promoting can be rewarding and even pleasurable conversations to have, and firing or denying promotions can be among the most difficult. Unfortunately, our jobs Photo: © deagreez/Adobe Stock © deagreez/Adobe Photo:

americanlibrariesmagazine.org | March/April 2018 43 are filled with the give-and-take of this cycle, and thinking Telling people you need them to do something they don’t about how to manage the less pleasurable conversations that want to do, or telling people you need them to stop doing arise throughout the workday is important. something that they like to do or feel entitled to do. These A leader might have to let someone go for many reasons, types of conversations may be less formal in terms of institu- such as when grant funding for a position ends and there are no tional norms, but they are no less difficult. In academic settings other funds to continue the position. Sometimes we have to let like libraries, most of us have benefited from the opportunity people go because they are not performing their job adequately. to “own” our jobs. This privilege can make work rewarding, but Often the decision happens after a long series of difficult sometimes we forget that the opportunity to create our own conversations. If you have not been consistent about having work is a privilege and not a right. All working situations change; frequent conversations and creating documentation, letting new tasks get assigned and new technologies demand that someone go can be a difficult process. old tasks be done in new ways. Redirecting people’s work is a Similarly, telling people that they did not get a promotion or common aspect of a leader’s job. This conversation is not likely to a position they applied for can also be difficult. Often people go well if not handled with some level of reflection and planning. who have applied for a promotion have worked with you for some time. The employee may have become a friend and trusted Components of a difﬁcult conversation colleague. In these instances, difficult conversations have an There are many reasons we might hesitate to have a difficult added layer of personal complication that must be considered. conversation. Telling people they are not performing adequately. In many The other person might react badly. People, being human, libraries and other academic units, we are expected to conduct react to information they don’t want to hear with a wide range performance reviews on an annual basis. We would like to of emotions. We’ve heard stories of managers who were loudly report that their regularity makes them easier, but that would cursed at by a colleague after the latter had learned that a not be true. For most of us, these tenure case received a negative conversations are especially difficult vote. And we’ve heard stories of precisely because of their regularity colleagues attempting to build and because we conduct them with coalitions against a supervisor people we may know well. when a merit review didn’t result Negative performance reviews It is unfair and in the raise they’d hoped for. It is are tricky because the task is to true that difficult conversations clearly identify behavior that needs unkind not to can result in heated emotions to be changed while also motivating expressed without restraint, but the employee to stay engaged and help the employee fears are often worse than realities. be willing to improve. Hiring new These reactions are awkward at employees is almost always more best and frightening at worst. expensive and time consuming than improve simply You might be rejected. Let’s be training and supporting current honest: No one likes to be rejected. employees. Finding a way to conduct because you want Risking rejection is something this conversation effectively is critical most of us avoid at all costs. It is to success as a leader. to avoid a difﬁcult also true, however, that being a These conversations can be leader means that occasionally you especially difficult if the other person conversation. will have to risk rejection. One of believes he or she is doing an excel- the most important things to learn lent job. However, avoiding telling as a leader is that you must regard people that they are not meeting your friendships differently. As a expectations is unproductive. How supervisor or as a coworker, you can anyone improve his or her perfor- still need to work with people with mance unless he or she knows that expectations are not being whom you will have to have difficult conversations. You may met? You can put off having the difficult conversation, wait need something from them in the future, or you may just not until the yearly review, and then surprise the employee with want them to shun you in day-to-day interactions. These are a poor performance review, but that would be discouraged by natural fears, and they must be managed. You will be called to any human resources department. It is unfair and unkind not to treat your friends as employees, even when that is very difficult. help the employee improve simply because you want to avoid You might do it badly and make things worse. Even for a difficult conversation. Furthermore, ignoring poor perfor- someone who is ready to enter conflict, this is a very real mance can affect the morale of those performing well. It can be concern. High stakes are involved in hosting a difficult con- demoralizing to work hard every day only to see others making versation, and the consequences and impact of an ineffective a minimal effort with no consequences. difficult conversation are very real, ranging from a lawsuit to

44 March/April 2018 | americanlibrariesmagazine.org lost trust and maybe some banged-up furniture. Having a plan create supportive structures so that performance can meet to address a difficult conversation will reduce this particular expectations. There is much to be learned through a carefully concern whether you are conflict-avoidant or not. navigated difficult conversation. And the news gets even better. By having these conversations, The good news and the bad news you will gain confidence, strength, and integrity. A great irony No matter what you do to prepare, difficult conversations are of life as a manager is that avoiding difficult conversations never easy. There is a lot at stake in these types of conversations. makes work more difficult. Tasks don’t get completed on time Telling people that grant funds have expired and they will and at the right level of quality. People can be confused and not be rehired is tantamount to telling them that they will not unhappy, which can make for low morale. be able to pay their rent or feed their children. Telling people The difference between a minimally successful manager that they are not performing tasks adequately is often inter- and a truly successful one is the capacity for having effective preted as telling them they are inadequate human beings. You difficult conversations. You will be remembered and promoted should go into each difficult conversation assuming that the not because you manage your budget well and meet deadlines, stakes are even higher than evident on the surface. although these are very important, but because you help the Practical steps and learnable skills can be used to make people around you reach—and maybe exceed—their profes- difficult conversations go smoothly. Adequate preparation is sional potential. Having these conversations may never be easy, important, and careful follow-up can ensure that such conver- but if you follow key steps and develop needed communica- sations result in desirable behavioral change and accountabil- tion skills, you will become confident in your abilities and feel ity for both the employee and yourself. Communication skills satisfied that there is integrity in the way that you interact with like listening, nonverbal immediacy, and clear messaging can those under your supervision. go a long way toward making difficult conversations effective. The good news is that these conversations can be produc- CATHERINE SOEHNER is associate tive and yield important change. People we supervise, armed dean for research and user services with clear expectations and supported by compassionate at the J. Willard Marriott Library at the University of Utah. Coauthor messages, can transform into model employees. Through ANN DARLING is assistant vice difficult conversations, we might learn what is keeping an president of undergraduate studies and associate professor in the employee from performing adequately and might be able to Photo: © Viacheslav Iakobchuk/Adobe Stock Iakobchuk/Adobe © Viacheslav Photo: communication department at the University of Utah.

americanlibrariesmagazine.org | March/April 2018 45 PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

We Can, but Should We? When trends challenge our professional values

ibraries work hard to help the grading students based on their use of underserved in their communities. library resources. However, identifying and reaching Although some libraries collect user out to nonusers of our services is in data to demonstrate library value, so far often difficult. Imagine having practice the relationship between library use and Laccess to information about every one of BY Meredith Farkas student success has been shown to be only your community members and whether correlational. It is not clear that library and how they use the library. You could use causes better grades. Correlates of tailor your communications and target I wonder if students know what data student success include going to the gym those who might need services the most. their library is or isn’t collecting. How (bit.ly/algotogym), holding a part-time In K–12 and academic libraries, this many libraries require students to explic- job (bit.ly/alptjob), and living on campus is becoming increasingly possible with itly opt into data collection? Or do stu- (bit.ly/aldormlife). When it’s not clear learning analytics systems that aggregate dents tacitly agree to be tracked by using whether the association is causal, there’s student data to make trends visible. The the library’s resources? Some claim that no guarantee that changing one behavior systems also allow advisors, instructors, millennials don’t care about privacy, but will improve a student’s grade. and other stakeholders to use the trend preliminary research (bit.ly/aljrprivacy) At the 2016 Colorado Academic Library data to identify a student at risk based on by Jenica Rogers, director of libraries Association Conference, Megan Oakleaf, specific characteristics or behaviors. They at SUNY Potsdam, suggests that many an associate professor at Syracuse (N.Y.) allow educators to intervene, often before students are concerned, especially when University School of Information Studies a student exhibits any difficulties. their information is not fully anonymized who favors using library data in learning Some libraries have jumped on the and aggregated. analytics, stated, “We won’t know what learning analytics bandwagon, inspired by It’s not hard to imagine this data difference the library makes until we early work like the Association of College being used in ways we didn’t intend and collect data on individual library users.” and Research Libraries’ Value of Academic can’t control. Instructors can already see However, in her presentation at that con- Libraries report (bit.ly/allibvalue) and the student activity in the learning man- ference (bit.ly/alzoeprivacy), Zoe Fisher, Jisc Library Impact Data Project (bit.ly/ agement system (LMS). What if they assistant professor and pedagogy and alimpactdata). To demonstrate the value could also see how much time students assessment librarian at University of Col- of libraries, some institutions are inte- are spending doing library research? It orado Denver, described methods, such as grating library data—such as circulation wouldn’t be a leap to imagine instructors ethnography and phenomenography, that data, building visits, database usage, and libraries can use to investigate their value workshop attendance—into institutional and better understand patrons without learning analytics platforms. While the invading their privacy. While the possibilities of library data in possibilities of library Compromising our professional values learning analytics might be intriguing, the to chase a controversial education trend is privacy implications are immense. If these data in learning definitely not our only option to under- systems can identify students who don’t standing our impact on students. use the library, this means that individual analytics might be and transaction-level data is being kept MEREDITH FARKAS is a faculty librarian at intriguing, the Portland (Oreg.) Community College and and put into other institutional platforms. a lecturer at San José (Calif.) State Uni- It’s possible that a library collecting this privacy implications versity School of Information. She blogs data could end up responsible for a major at Information Wants to Be Free. Email: breach of patron privacy. are immense. [email protected]

46 March/April 2018 | americanlibrariesmagazine.org PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Social Media Bots How they spread misinformation

ots are automatic software pro- is complete, their accounts are eliminated. grams that perform repetitive Detecting bots before they can do any tasks to gather data from the harm is critical to shutting them down. internet. Bots can automate It is possible to watch for bots on social tedious and time-consuming dispatches networks. To protect ourselves from bots Bprocesses efficiently, but they can also be BY Joanna M. Burkhardt that spread misinformation, we can use deployed to mine users’ data or manipu- the following methods: late public opinion. The Imperva Incap- 1. Do not accept friend requests from sula security company’s Bot Traffic Report Technology to detect bots is in its accounts that lack a profile picture, 2016 (bit.ly/2kzZ6Nn) estimates that infancy, and digital security experts are have confused or misspelled handles, approximately 30% of internet traffic is working on approaches to recognize have low numbers of tweets or shares, produced by malicious bots. them automatically. Indiana University and follow more accounts than they In social media, bots collect informa- launched the Observatory on Social Media have followers. tion by crawling the internet for specific project (previously known as Truthy), 2. Report any bots that you’ve identified. keywords and hashtags and sharing them which compares suspected Twitter Social media sites provide links for on sites like Facebook and Twitter. Some accounts with the characteristics of known reporting misuse. social bots were developed to behave like bots collected in its database. 3. Rather than relying on a single hashtag, a human—using emojis in their posts, The Defense Advanced Research use a wide variety and change them on only posting at reasonable hours of the Projects Agency, an arm of the US Defense a regular basis. day, or limiting the amount of information Department, sponsored a competition 4. Check the number of followers for new they share. They have become increas- in 2015 to identify bots that simulate friends. If accounts you follow gain ingly sophisticated, making it difficult to human behavior and attempt to influ- large numbers of followers overnight, distinguish a bot-generated internet per- ence opinions. The project discovered bots are probably involved. sona from a live human. In 2014, Twitter that a semiautomated process combin- 5. Read before sharing. Many people share revealed in a Securities and Exchange ing inconsistency detection, behavioral articles without reading anything but Commission filing that approximately modeling, text analysis, network analysis, the headline, which may be misleading 8.5% of all its users were bots, and that and machine learning is the most effective or unrelated to the story it is attached to. number may have increased to as much as means of identifying malicious bots. 6. Be skeptical. Verify sources, and use 15% in 2017. A main difficulty in identifying some such fact-checking sites as Snopes People who are unaware that they bots is their short lifespan. Bots often are or PolitiFact. are interacting with a bot can easily be created for a specific task; once that task If our students and patrons are taught supplied with false information. Accord- to be skeptical about information sources, ing to research published in the Commu- Do not accept they are more likely to discern the truth. nications of the Association for Computing Helping individuals learn information Machinery in 2016, more than 20% of friend requests from literacy is one of the most important skills authentic Facebook users accept friend we can offer. requests indiscriminately. People with a accounts that lack large network of friends are more likely JOANNA M. BURKHARDT is director of the University of Rhode Island branch libraries in to accept requests from people they don’t a proﬁle picture or Providence and Narragansett. Adapted from know. This can make it relatively easy have confused or “Combating Fake News in the Digital Age,” for bots to infiltrate a network of social Library Technology Reports vol. 53, no. 8 media users. misspelled handles. (November/December 2017).

americanlibrariesmagazine.org | March/April 2018 47 PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

To Preserve and Protect Students learn stewardship by examining endangered cultural traditions

any schools teach about on seed preservation, we contacted endangered species and a nearby farm with a heritage apple humans’ effect on the environ- orchard. I contacted master gardeners ment, but they don’t always youth through our cooperative extension and look at other threatened matters asked them to come by and show the Maspects of our world. Culture and history BY Amy Harpe students how to graft trees. are disappearing every day, whether it is a 3. Line up primary sources. Partner language on the verge of extinction, a musi- with a public or academic library for cal instrument that no one plays anymore, They begin to think about the world primary-source photographs or ephem- or town history that no one remembers. around them and how they can contribute. era that could enhance your students’ As we observe Preservation Week I love to use vivid storytelling—whether study of local history. Consult the (April 22–26), keep in mind that even our I’m explaining how the Gullah people from resources of the Global Oneness Project, youngest students are eager to hear about the Georgia and South Carolina Lowcoun- Library of Congress, Smithsonian Folk- cultural and historic preservation from the try region used sweet grass to make bas- ways, and UNESCO to enhance lessons. people most invested in it. Our learners kets, or describing fires that destroyed our 4. Make it engaging. Plan activities or realize that everybody has a story and that town and led to the creation of the local other strategies to get students moving these stories make a difference. fire department—to galvanize students’ or interacting with the cultural tradi- My own preservation journey with compassion and understanding. tions or primary sources being studied. 3rd graders at Pilot Mountain (N.C.) Ele- Thinking about bringing cultural and 5. Take a field trip. We are lucky that our mentary School begins with Marie Wilcox. history preservation lessons to your library school is within walking distance of our She is the last known fluent speaker of the or classroom? Here are some ideas for small downtown area. I take students Wukchumni language, which is spoken by a successful programming. on a historic walking tour every year Native American tribe in California, and she 1. Contact local history groups. Mem- to talk about how the community has has dedicated the past decade to preserving bers of our county’s African American changed over time. it by creating a dictionary. My students are Historical and Genealogical Society There are so many compelling stories captivated by Wilcox and her mission. have spoken to students, and a historian that can teach our students about the won- We begin our discussion by talking visits our school each year to present derful diversity in our world and about about the importance of documenting the town’s history. why a variety of histories and cultural language. We also examine endangered 2. Use your resources. Is there a tradition traditions need to be preserved. If you are traditions such as forms of dance, musical your area is known for? Could some- excited about the Svalbard Global Seed instruments, and arts and crafts. The one come in and share it? For a lesson Vault in Norway, chances are they will be students are engaged not only by stories of too. Excited students share information people who endeavor to maintain cultural Even our youngest with their families and communities, and traditions, but by interacting with the they look at people for their stories, not tradition themselves—for instance, a quick students are eager their stereotypes. lesson on Irish step dancing or finger knit- ting. When I pull out a bag of spoons and to hear about tell students we are going to learn to play AMY HARPE is media coordinator at Pilot Mountain (N.C.) Elementary School. Her them, their expressions are joyful. preservation from “Everybody Has a Story” initiative was awarded By exploring cultural traditions and the people most the 2017 Sara Jaffarian School Library Program how individuals are protecting them, Award for Exemplary Humanities Programming students learn empathy and stewardship. invested in it. by the American Library Association.

48 March/April 2018 | americanlibrariesmagazine.org The award-winning source for jobs in Library joblist.ala.org and Information Science and Technology Your #1 source for job openings in Library and Information Science Where job seekers and and Technology employers get results. Seeking nationally certified TEACHER LIBRARIAN to manage five school libraries JOB SEEKERS EMPLOYERS in the beautiful Columbia River Gorge, Filter and sort Strengthen your assisted by a staff of eight. Job opens in March. www.nwasco.k12.or.us/Domain/51 hundreds of job candidate pool—ALA ads by position reaches the engaged CONTACT [email protected]; 800-545-2433; Carrie Smith, ext. 4216. Career Leads, type, employer, professionals and American Libraries, 50 E. Huron St., Chicago, IL 60611; fax 312-280-2520. location, job title, students you want and more. to hire.

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americanlibrariesmagazine.org | March/April 2018 49 PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Serving the Community New books on public librarianship

he public library is the face of A solid overview can provide a road map librarianship for many outside to establishing services, but sometimes the profession. It’s a ubiqui- detailed directions are needed. Creating tous space that serves not only librarian’s and Managing the Full-Service Homework as an information repository library Center, by Cindy Mediavilla, walks through Tbut also as a community resource. New BY Karen Muller the steps of creating such a center. She titles on public librarianship address its starts by pointing out the advantages of many facets and spheres of influence. homework centers—libraries are a safe to administer public libraries to make a place, working in a homework center does The afterword in difference in people’s lives. The first not connote remedial assistance, and evi- Introduction to chapters examine public library history, dence points to positive outcomes—then Public Librarianship, the push toward equity of access, finance, moves to community assessment, policies 3rd edition, by accountability, staffing, facilities, and needed, and ways to evaluate success. Kathleen de la Peña services to youth and adults. But libraries Establishing a center involves the com- McCook and Jenny do not work alone. The final chapters munity, whether for S. Bossaller, captures provide an overview of numerous funding partners, vol- the essence of public networks for local and international unteer resources, or librarianship. In it, collaboration. Some are longstanding, school collaboration. Katharine Phenix, adult services librarian such as sharing catalog records; others are Decisions must also at Anythink Libraries in Adams County, newer. Some are greatly enhanced by be made about space, Colorado, describes how her work makes technology, others less so. Intended as a locations, supplies, a difference: “Libraries will be there, textbook, its detailed research and hours, and policies collecting, organizing, and making exhaustive references make this a valuable on security and behavioral expectations. [materials] available to anyone who volume for new and seasoned librarians. Mediavilla provides talking points and comes in the door, or portal, or holo- ALA Neal-Schuman, 2018. 416 P. $72. PBK. examples throughout the book. ALA Editions, gram,” she writes. Chapters address how 978-0-8389-1506-6. 2018. 184 P. $54. PBK. 978-0-8389-1618-6.

THE BESTSELLERS LIST

TOP 3 IN PRINT 1 | National School 2 | The Complete 3 | Introduction to Library Standards Guide to Personal Public Librarianship, for Learners, School Digital Archiving 3rd edition by Kathleen Librarians, and School by Brianna H. Marshall de la Peña McCook and Libraries by American Featuring expert Jenny S. Bossaller, foreword Association of School Librarians contributors working in a variety of by Felton Thomas Jr. The new Standards enables school contexts, this resource will help you help De la Peña McCook teams up with librarians to influence and lead in their your patrons take charge of their per- Bossaller to update and expand her work, schools, districts, and states and to better sonal materials. incorporating the field’s renewed empha- plan for today’s educational landscape. sis on outcomes and transformation.

50 March/April 2018 | americanlibrariesmagazine.org PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Similarly, Ann Roberts Rights in 1939 to today’s broad definition evaluating its “leaves” to understand more in Designing Adult of the “freedom to read.” Downey reviews about the times and places in which our Services: Strategies for the types of materials that are challenged, ancestors lived. She covers the basics of Better Serving Your either for content or format; issues record types and their contents, along with Community starts surrounding inter- advanced topics like military and church with the need for net access; and tips records, international resources, and community assess- on how to respond reconciling conflicting information. The ment and evaluation to complaints. Also final chapter provides tips on collection of services. She walks useful are discussions development and training. ALA Editions, 2018. through possible services for different on the importance of 240 P. $59. PBK. 978-0-8389-1644-5. community demographics, including the understanding one’s emerging adult population ages 18–24 in community, overcom- Local history is closely one chapter and ages 25–30 in the next, ing personal biases in related to genealogy. recognizing the granularity of services selection, and balancing demand for pop- Part of the American that should be considered to be responsive ular and quality material. Libraries Unlimited, Library Association to every demographic need. Chapters on 2017. 203 P. $55. PBK. 978-1-4408-4964-0. (Also Guides for the Busy older adults address these patrons and available as an ebook.) Librarian series, Faye their caregivers. Stressing inclusivity, Phillips’s Creating a Roberts offers tips for serving new There are many Local History Archive immigrants, disabled patrons, and the reasons someone at Your Public Library incarcerated. She also includes forms, might turn to the begins with a brief review of local history specific collection development sugges- library for genealogi- in public library collections, followed by a tions, and a competencies checklist. cal assistance, a discussion of strategic decisions to ponder Libraries Unlimited, 2017. 177 P. $45. PBK. 978-1- specialized reference when considering one. The meat of the 4408-5254-1. (Also available as an ebook.) skill. With Helping book progresses through the steps of Patrons Find Their collection management: acquisition; Intellectual freedom is a core value of Roots: A Genealogy processing, accessioning, and description; librarianship. In Public Library Collections Handbook for Librarians, Janice Lindgren providing access; and care. ALA Editions, in the Balance: Censorship, Inclusivity, and Schultz, former manager of the Midwest 2018. 176 P. $57. PBK. 978-0-8389-1566-0. Truth, Jennifer Downey reviews the his- Genealogical Center in Independence, tory of censorship in US public libraries, Missouri, provides a guide for the KAREN MULLER was librarian and knowledge charting an evolution from the provision nonspecialists among us. She discusses management specialist for the ALA Library of “worthy” reading to the Library Bill of how to develop a family tree while also until her retirement in December 2017.

The Top-Selling Books from ALA Publishing (Since January 1, 2018)

TOP 3 IN EBOOKS 1 | Foundations of 2 | Teaching Informa- 3 | New on the Job: Library and Information tion Literacy Reframed: A School Librarian’s Science, 4th edition 50+ Framework-Based Guide to Success, by Richard E. Rubin, Exercises for Creating 2nd edition by Hilda K. foreword by Joseph Janes Information-Literate Weisburg and Ruth Toor This book illuminates the major facets of Learners by Joanna M. Burkhardt New school librarians as well as those library and information science for aspir- Burkhardt offers instructors guidance in already in the profession can set the tone ing professionals as well as those already teaching the six threshold concepts in the for a rewarding career with this one-stop, practicing in the field. Framework, helping them create their own hands-on guide. local information literacy programs.

americanlibrariesmagazine.org | March/April 2018 51 Living Language for Libraries provides access to online courses in more than 20 languages.

newcomers to the area. Libraries can also supplement their English- language learner programs with Living Language ESL courses tailored to a number of first languages, including Arabic, Chinese, and Spanish. Patrons access the courses online or through an iOS app, with no limit on the number of concurrent logins. Built-in reporting features provide information on how often patrons use the program and for how long, so libraries can assess Embracing Diverse which courses are being used. Books on Tape provides customer Narratives support services and marketing materials to help libraries promote Improving your services to minority populations their courses. Pricing is based on the population that a library serves and the ibraries strive to create a wel- flashcards and audio recordings as languages it chooses to offer—for coming space for all members well as games designed by native a quote and free trial code, visit of the public. Part of that pro- speakers and other learning tools bibliotheca.com. For more infor- Lcess involves engaging with that allow learners to tailor lessons mation, visit booksontape.com/ diverse communities and building to their individual learning style. living-language. understanding. The following ser- In addition to its in-depth vices will help you guide readers language courses, Living Language OurStory Pro toward materials that reflect their offers overview courses designed We Need Diverse Books, a nonprofit experiences and explore the experi- for travelers, businesspeople, law organization founded in 2014 to ences of others, and help you—and enforcement, health care workers, address a lack of representation in others—learn new languages and and librarians. These courses cover children’s literature, launched Our- incorporate multicultural concepts specialized vocabulary and specific Story in mid-2016. This book dis- into storytime. cultural notes as well as grammar covery app matches young readers and pronunciation. with books that examine a range of Living Language Librarian-specific language experiences—including LGBTQIA for Libraries courses in Spanish and American people, people of color, people with Living Language for Libraries, from Sign Language are free with Living disabilities, and other minorities. Books on Tape, provides access Language for Libraries subscrip- While kid and teen versions of to online courses for more than tions. The courses teach library- the app are free to the public, Our- 20 languages, teaching grammar, related vocabulary and provide Story Pro is designed specifically to vocabulary, and culture from begin- guides to common library interac- aid librarians and educators in read- ner to advanced levels. Courses tions like accessing digital resources ers’ advisory and to supplement include traditional tools such as and providing information to diversity-oriented programs and

52 March/April 2018 | americanlibrariesmagazine.org SUBMISSIONS To have a new product considered, contact Carrie Smith at [email protected].

Bilingual Birdies

How do you use Bilingual USER: Eve Simone Birdies’ professional devel- Doganges, senior opment courses? The Bilin- children’s librarian, gual Birdies professional New York Public Library development course covered Mott Haven branch ways to add movement, sing- PRODUCT: Bilingual Birdies ing, musical instruments, and wordplay into storytimes. DETAILS: Bilingual Birdies teaches lan- curricula. This paid version of the The OurStory app I enjoyed it immensely guage and cultural awareness through app includes booktalking kits, read- guides readers to because it was very the- live music and movement and offers ing guides, and printable graphics. diverse reading atrical and dramatic. My professional development courses to recommendations. Three pricing tiers grant access to International Fairy-Tale Hour help educators incorporate these ele- a range of We Need Diverse Books incorporates much of what ments into their own programs. materials, including exclusive Bilingual Birdies emphasizes. author and illustrator content. I often open my program by finding on a wall map where the fairy At the center of the OurStory tale is based. We also stop every now and then to discuss vocabulary discovery process is an interactive words, and children ask questions about culture, food, and dress. quiz that guides users as they seek Children get a geographic, linguistic, musical, cultural, and moral recommendations in various cate- lesson while having fun. They also learn how to express their ideas gories, from genre and reading level and become more eloquent in the process. to character types and experiences. The app then generates a list of How does Bilingual Birdies serve your library needs? Bilingual books that meet the criteria. Search Birdies is a wonderful way to introduce our little (and big) ones to results include book summaries, rhythm, music, and a new or familiar language. Multilingual and links to reviews, and a list of cat- multicultural storytelling is an excellent approach to early literacy egories that each book falls into, as it invites people from all cultures to participate in the program with searched terms highlighted. through music (a universal language) and the languages of the A “more like this” link directs world. Spanish is often a first language in our community, so we use readers to similar books. OurStory it as a fun and effective icebreaker and a warm, familiar, and wel- also offers book purchases directly coming way to invite Spanish-speaking parents in. through the app. Volunteer readers, What are the main benefits? Bilingual Birdies’ music including librarians, teachers, and and multicultural language play is yet another tool to educators, read these books before add to our early literacy arsenal, and cultural diver- they are selected for inclusion in the sity should be on the map of children’s awareness. app’s recommendation database. Besides introducing little ones to music and OurStory Pro is accessible language, it provides early exposure to different through any web browser and, cultures and promotes a heightened awareness, while a mobile app is available only openness, and tolerance of those differences. This for Android, more versions are cur- A Bilingual Birdies awareness boosts an appreciation for the beauty of variety while rently in development, including an professional embracing the common bond of humanity. expanded version of OurStory Pro development designed for public libraries. workshop. What would you like to see improved or added to the program? Subscriptions start at $5 per An expansion of the same kind of programming would be the main month, paid annually. For more improvement. More programs that emphasize multicultural songs, information, visit diversebooks.org/ stories, language, and music can reach a much wider audience, and ourstory. Photo: Mariliana Arvelo (workshop) Mariliana Arvelo Photo: with them bring a strong and joyful message of inclusion and unity. •

americanlibrariesmagazine.org | March/April 2018 53 Henderson Memorial Public Library ON THE MOVE in Jefferson, Ohio, promoted Beverly Follin to director in November. December 4 John S. Bracken became executive director of the Digital Public Sue Polanka, associate university In December, Kristy Sutorius Kilfoyle Library of America in Boston. librarian for public services at was promoted to director of libraries at Wright State University in Dayton, Canterbury School in Fort Myers, Florida. In November DeeAnna Culbertson became director of Madison (Ohio) Ohio, received the Jay Ladd Dis- Brandeis University in Waltham, Massa- Public Library. tinguished Service Award from the chusetts, promoted Matthew Sheehy to Academic Library Association of university librarian in November. Jeannie Dilger became Ohio October 27. executive director of Alexandria (Ohio) Public Library pro- Palatine (Ill.) Public Jean Weihs, retired director of moted Carrie Strong to director in Library January 8. the Library Techniques Program December. at Seneca College of Applied Arts The Public Library of Youngstown and and Technology in Toronto, was Mahoning County, Ohio, appointed appointed to the Order of Canada RETIREMENTS Aimee Fifarek as director in January. for her contributions to library Michael A. Christian retired in Decem- The Illinois Library Association named science, particularly the standard- ber as director of the National Society Diane Foote as executive director, ization of nonbook cataloging. of the Sons of the American Revolution effective November 14. Linda Zellmer, government infor- Genealogical Research Library in Louis- Ian Fowler joined New York Public mation and data services librarian ville, Kentucky. Library as geospatial librarian and map at Western Illinois University in In December, Bee Gallegos retired as curator at the Stephen A. Schwarzman Macomb, received the Geoscience education and history librarian at Ari- Building January 8. Information Society’s 2017 Mary zona State University’s Fletcher Library B. Ansari Distinguished Service December 4 Sarah Hoover in Glendale. Award. joined the University of • John Halliday retired as director of North Carolina’s Wilson Jefferson-Madison Regional Library in Special Collections Library Charlottesville, Virginia, in December. in Chapel Hill as special Case Western Reserve University in collections cataloger. Cleveland appointed Julia Teran as proj- Joyce Klingelsmith retired as director ect archivist, effective November 13. Sonya Huser became director of of Archbold (Ohio) Community Library Archbold (Ohio) Community Library in November. The University of Oregon Libraries in November 13. Eugene appointed Kate Thornhill as Waukegan (Ill.) Public Library Executive Regina Koury joined the Paul Robeson digital projects librarian in January. Director Richard Lee retired in January. Library at Rutgers University–Camden (N.J.) as director January 16. Holly Tomren was named head of Susan Odencrantz retired in January as director of Tacoma (Wash.) Public cataloging and metadata strategy at January 2 Kate Larsen joined Tacoma Library. Temple University Libraries in Philadel- (Wash.) Public Library as library director. phia in December. Tim Robson retired November 11 as associate director of academic engage- In January Stefanie Ramsay joined ment services at Case Western Reserve Temple University in Philadelphia as PROMOTIONS University in Cleveland. digital projects librarian. The Mount Vernon (Va.) Ladies’ Associ- Betty Waznis retired as director of Chula Lisa G. Rosenblum Vista (Calif.) Public Library January 4. ation promoted Library Director Doug joined King County (Wash.) Library Bradburn to president and chief exec- Ellenjoy Weber retired in December System as director utive officer of George Washington’s after 30 years as director of the Coro- January 16. Mount Vernon estate, effective January 1. nado (Calif.) Children’s Library.

54 March/April 2018 | americanlibrariesmagazine.org SUBMISSIONS Send notices and photographs to Amy Carlton, [email protected].

MORE ONLINE americanlibrariesmagazine.org/currents

Eugene Dickerson, 59, cataloging team leader at the November 11. Moulen had worked at the library for more than US Department of State’s Ralph J. Bunche Library in Wash- 20 years, starting as a student employee and becoming mono- ington, D.C., died December 16. Dickerson was a longtime graph acquisitions assistant after graduating in 1994. She was member of the Association for Library Collections and Tech- promoted to monograph acquisitions section head in 1996 and nical Services (ALCTS) who served on numerous Continuing library systems manager in 1997. Moulen received Ex Libris’s Resources Section and ALCTS division committees. He also Azriel Morag Award for Innovation in 2016 for her contribu- taught serials cataloging for the Serials Cataloging Coopera- tions to the Aleph library system, and she won MIT’s Infinite tive Training Program. Mile Award for significant accomplishments three times.

Wyman Jones, 87, Los Angeles city librarian from 1970– Eloise Pettus, 91, a life member of ALA and teacher of library 1990, died October 9. As director, he oversaw the recovery science, died April 20. Pettus taught at Sam Houston State after arson fires at the Central Library in 1986. Prior to joining University in Huntsville, Texas; the University of Southern Los Angeles Public Library, he served as director of Fort Worth Mississippi in Hattiesburg; the University of Arizona in (Tex.) Library. Tucson; and the University of Malaya in Kuala Lumpur, Malay- sia, at the request of ALA and the United States Information Lora Landers, 90, who retired as deputy director of Hennepin Agency. She had previously served as a librarian at Norton County (Minn.) Library in 1987, died November 29. Landers Park and Kenwood Elementary Schools in Cobb County, began her career at New York Public Library in 1949, worked Georgia. She was author of The Master Index to Summaries of for the Department of the Army 1954–1956, and for Minne- Children’s Books and its follow-up, The Master Index to More apolis Public Library 1957–1965. In 1987, she received the Summaries of Children’s Books. Minnesota Library Association’s President’s Award and the American Library Association’s (ALA) Margaret E. Monroe Lorraine Summers, 70, assistant state librarian of Florida Library Adult Services Award. until her 2001 retirement, died November 14. Summers served on ALA Council, as president of the Association of Mary Ann Mongan, 88, founding director of Kenton County Specialized and Cooperative Library Agencies and the South- (Ky.) Public Library, died November 12. Mongan served as eastern Library Association, and on the board of the Florida director of the library from 1967–1999. In 1958 she was hired Library Association. She started her career as extension direc- as director of the Covington (Ky.) Library, which became part tor at Gainesville (Fla.) Public Library before joining the State of the Kenton County system when it was formed. During Library of Florida as federal projects coordinator. her tenure, the library introduced bookmobile service to the Diana Vogelsong, 66, reference librarian and acting univer- county and constructed two library branches. The Kenton sity librarian at American University Library in Washington, County Public Library Foundation created a literary award in D.C., until her retirement in 2011, died June 23. Vogelsong her honor in 2009. was a volunteer at Sandy Spring Museum, cataloging and Christine Moulen, 44, library systems manager at the Massa- scanning pictures for its collections, and was an active chusetts Institute of Technology Libraries in Cambridge, died recorder of family genealogy. •

Brian Franklin joined the Public Library Karen Muller, director of the ALA AT ALA Association as program manager in Library and knowledge management December. specialist, retired in December. Ligia Barac became senior adminis- trative assistant for ALA Finance and Kristin Lahurd became assistant direc- Kathy Rosa has been promoted to direc- Accounting December 18. tor for literacy and continuing educator of the Library and Research Center, ALA Director of Staff Support Ron tion in the Office for Diversity, Literacy, which merges the Office for Research Bruzan left ALA November 6. and Outreach Services in November. and Evaluation and the ALA Library.

americanlibrariesmagazine.org | March/April 2018 55 to the Fishes the to Friend A 56 available insomeplaces they are visiting.” nized thanmost onlinematerials, andWi-Fimight notbe trips becausetheseprinted guidebooks are better orga- DeKock says that “staff members take themoutonfield insects, aquatic invertebrates, andmarinemammals. collection are thefieldguidesto various fish,plants, open to thepublic.The most popularmaterials inthe for aquariumstaff, interns, andvolunteers andisnot the information accurate, current, andconsistent. and ateam ofSheddcurators dotheresearch to keep new speciesare addedto oneofthehabitats, DeKock iPads located ineachexhibit for visitors to peruse. When keeps track ofamultitudefishy facts displayed onthe C BOOKEND The Shedd’s libraryofsome7,000 books isprimarily March/April 2018 Shedd’s librarianandarchivist, AlisunDeKock popular cultural attractions. Inherrole asthe hicago’s SheddAquarium isoneofthecity’s most the | americanlibrariesmagazine.org “I never get thesamequestion twice.” raptor perches. Eachrequest isasurprise,” shesays. giving afishanelectrocardiogram, andhow to design growth, details onwetlands restoration, methods for research requests, “such ashow LEDlights affect coral storage for preservation.” some, andnearlyallhave beentransferred to cold with filmsmadeonthosetrips.We have digitized dive tripsfrom the1960sthrough the1980s,along underwater cameras andwaterproof casingsusedon records. DeKock says ithasan“interesting variety of to [email protected]. work spaces. For consideration, pleasesendpress material THE BOOKEND DeKock alsohelpsoutwithawiderange of The aquarium’s archive includesmany photographic showcases librarians, theirwork, andtheir swim by. tambaqui fish South American habitat, astwo Amazon Rising Shedd Aquarium’s cation iPad inthe species identifi- stands besidethe Alisun DeKock

Photo: Rebecca Lomax/American Libraries RDA TODAY AND TOM ORROW

We are excited to introduce the initial rollout of 3R Project this June at the ALA Annual Conference. Don’t miss our pre-conference day-long event discussing all the new developments and updates!

THIS DAY-LONG EVENT WILL INCLUDE: • introduce the new RDA Toolkit RDA TOOLKIT • examine how the RDA Steering REDESIGN UPDATE Committee (RSC) has addressed key AND PREVIEW cataloguing issues Friday | June 22nd • hear about the latest developments including the implementation of the ALA ANNUAL CONFERENCE Library Reference Model • test out the new RDA Toolkit alongside experts

REGISTER AT http://2018.alaannual.org/registration/ticketed-events#ALA Progress and patience: Increasing female participation in technical conferences

by Karen Coombs

The Code4Lib Conference is an informal group of library technologists that attracts international participation. While it’s an awesome learning and professional community, it also has had the same gender diversity challenges and opportunities as many other technology events and groups. When the Code4Lib Conference first started in 2006, Around 40% of our community They offer four key suggestions identifies as female, and at the to increase gender diversity at 2017 conference, 43% of the your events: Going from roughly speakers were female. • Support caregivers of 6% to 40% in terms of I’m proud of the improvements all types. both attendance and we’ve made, and I think if we • Prepare and train women speakers represents continue to focus on a few now for future success. real progress. key activities, we’ll see even • Make sure credit is given more progress. What do my to women’s efforts. female co-workers at OCLC say I was one of five women out is helping them do so? • Spotlight diverse voices. of 80 attendees, and of the 17 presenters that year, only one was female.

Now the nearly 450 attendees More details and a description of the Women in at the event are much more Technology Scholarship award are available at equally divided by gender. oc.lc/female-tech.

Read the full article and subscribe to receive OCLC Next email updates at oclc.org/blog.

Learn more at oclc.org

Excerpted from a post on the OCLC Next blog from 20 December 2017.