JUNE 2004 CON·NECTICUT APublicalion of the Conneclirut library LIBRARIESAss ocia tion Periodicals Department Hilton C. Buley Library Southern CT State Universi1y Excellence in Library Sil as Bronson had won a New Haven, CT 06515 $2. 125 million fed eral Service Awards award from the Institute of Museum and Library Service to bring its na­ Fo ur Co nnecticut libraries were scent technological capa­ honored with the 2004 Excellence in bilities up to current stan­ Public Library Services Awards be­ dard s. With the awa rd, stowed at the CLA Conference in $500,000 from the April. Ly me Public Library and Bronson Library endow­ Ro ckvill e Public Library received ment, and about $100,000 Silas Bronson Library's their awards for overall service in a In/ormation Tech nolog), Center Team from the Bill and Melinda small and large library, respectivel y. G ates Fo undatio n in The awards for a specific service in hand, the library initiated construc­ funds coming from the municipal a small and a large library went to ti on o f an Information Technology budget, its fin ancial conditio n re­ Woodbury Public Library and Center (ITC) in Bronson's east wing. flected the relative poverty of the city Waterbury's Silas Bronso n Library. The Sil as Bronson Library, named itself. Aside from a short period in Here are their stories. for a local merchant and philanthro­ the early 1960s, support consistently pist whose legacy called for the es­ lagged behind that of the average Con­ tablishment of a city library, was not necticut public Library. used to major strokes o f good for­ The year 2001 was about as bad a tune. With most of its operating year as the library ever had . A suc­ Urban libraries like W ater­ cession o f fiscally inept admin­ bury's Sil as Bronson Library is trations had forced Waterbury typicall y face a gamut o f prob­ hnp:llcla.uco nn. edU in to " bankruptcy," with its fi­ lems, from under-funding to nances overseen by a state over­ populati o ns with high rates o f sight board. Compounding a illiteracy. In 2001, the library drastic reductio n in the library also served a city struggling with budget was a quarter-milli o n­ chro nically high unemploy­ No Envelope, Please! ...... 2 dollar error made by the over­ ment and suffering the collective Looking At Books : sight board . The library'S fund­ angst associated with a series of Bruce Springsteen's America: The ing fell precipitously- 24% from municipal adminis tratio ns People listening, A Poet Singing .... 2 the previous year-and Silas plagued by scandal and charged Good Budget News ...... 3 From the President ...... 3 Bronson became the state's most with wro ng doing o f one sort Technology: a .WebJunction.org poorl y supported municipal li­ or another. Coming in June ...... 4 bra ry. Cuts in staff and service In this pai nful period fo r the Heritage: Acton Public Library, hours were so severe that the li­ city, its 131 -year-old public li­ Old Saybrook ...... 5 brary had to do its own brary was celebrating some as­ The Gra phic Novel ...... 7 fund raising in ord er to operate. to nishingly good news. Due Nevertheless, work on build­ largely to the efforts of then­ ing the Information Technology Congressman J ames Maloney, Con/inNed on p age 8 bestowed its first Librarian of the were not honored with the award received an Year, now called Outstanding appreciation in writing from the association­ No Librarian, award in 1981 to Virginia DoweU, then something which, given our small profession director of the N ew Britain Library. This year, and the fact that many of us are personal fri ends Envelope, as well as colleagues, is a very smart idea. Sharon Brettschneider joined a distinguished list c of library workers as th e 2004 recipient. This year's ceremony had some of the fl as h Please! tc Cong ratulations, Sharon! and dash o f a night with Oscar. Odd summaries as That said, I question the new process used to of the accomplishments of the three nominees v( by Bill Uricchio announce the outstanding librarian. In past years, were presented b y some BiUy Crystal wannabes. th the Awards Committee's conclusion was made None of the nominees had been told in advance c( known to the winner, w ho the n showed up at of the outcome of the decision making process the ceremony with his or he r personal ento urage and two s howed up wi th family a nd oth er es to receive the honor. The person presenting the supporters in tow. The hall was hus hed as the d­ award read snippets from suppOrt letters received name of the winner was read out. From one group th by the committee. These letters, derivi ng from a a cheer, applause, and hugs. From the other, a w number of sources, often contained interesting friendly acknowledgement but also some very insights, a humorous anecdote or two, and a large lo ng faces. measure of love- and there's no better word for In my opinion, our association's leadership of the tone of m ost of them. It was a very homey ancient days approached the issuance of its "gold and personal a ffair with the "losers" remaining medal" in a more professional manner. The key known only to their sponsors and the committee. term is "professional. " We are not people thrown I understand that in recent years nominees who into the public's eye by virtue of the fact that we Continlied on page 6 w Bruce Springsteen's America: w The People Listening, A Poet Singing by Robert Coles (Random House, 2003) C

Tecton listened Intently as the storyteller approached the to bring people together to discuss literature, atask not easy end of his song. The teenager felt the nudge of astrong hand even for Oprah Winfrey. Bruce Sprillgsteen assembles on his back. Teeton turned his head to meet his father's smile audiences numbering in the thousands night after night to hear and then looked down at his younger brother, asleep and his stories. Granted, "The Boss" is a rock star. However, resting on his shoulder. Poor Phylas! He had been so excited author Coles shows us that Springsteen's music is laden with about joining the men of the village this evening that he had narrative, with emotion, and with meaning. Agood portion of been unable to sleep all last night. Teeton remembered evenings, America listens to Springsteen and relates to what he has to not many years ago, when he, like Phylas, dozed off, dreaming say. They recognize his themes as solidly American. of the warrior heroes-of-old and of brave sailors challenging Affeetion for America and its people comes through loud the treacherous, wine-dark sea. leeton still thrilled to the blind and clear. But the love Springsteen sings of is neither blind nor poet's tales of adventure, but, at fifteen, he saw that Homer uncritical. Like John Steinbeck and Woody Guthrie, Springsteen sang of duty and responsibility, too. Teeton honored the gods, sees injustice, prejudice, and poverty. He does not look away, respeeted his elders, and treated guests with generosity. He nor does he let us. Still, Springsteen sees America as aland of would fiercely defend his polis and his neighbors against any hope, as do his listeners. He wrote "The Promised Land" over enemy. He understood that battles were won with both wisdom twenty-five years ago and includes it in his concerts today. No lOOllNG AT and strength of arms. doubt, listeners relate to the angry youth who "gets up every Those of us who enjoy the written word of Western culture morning and goes to work each day" at some unsatisfyingjob, ( sometimes forget that we owe our black and white heritage to but still believes in the "promised land:' o an earlier oral tradition. The poems we attribute to Homer Even people who would not attend a Springsteen concert l[ were heard I'ong before the Greeks could read them. Homer find themselves studying 'his lyrics, trying to better understand S and others like him told great stories, stories that carried what the poet and storyteller is saying through his songs. meaning. They educated the young and linked the people of Coles introduces us to several. Many who disagree wit'h The [) autonomous City-states to the common values of Greek history Boss' point of view find themselves going over his wording d p and culture. Hundreds of years later, in the middle ages, and phraseology again and again, wringing out as much meaning F troubadours crisscrossed an illiterate and disunited Europe. as they can . A business consultant who regularly travels across 4 They entertained with song and story, but also propagated art the country may not sound like a member of Springsteen's B and culture. target audience, but he is. Unlike many who have never listened Reading Robert Coles' book, Bruce Springsteen's America, carefully to the words of the popular hit, "Born in the U.s.A.,' C is a good reminder of how powerful the oral story-telling this listener has gone over the lyrics many times. He is angry F medium remains .It takes agreat deal of work for us librarians elJIIlilllled 0 11 p",ge 6

CONNECTICUT LIBRARIES· JUNE 2004 • PAGE 2 ~ n Good Budget News

)n :l s he Legislature passed the bonding package that included $3.5 millio n for Public Library ;h Construction grants. This fund ing was allocated to the normal State Library grant program, no t ~s A Tale of Two Cabbies as separate items for speci fic libraries. T his is ~s L eJ KozerOlllitz s. very good news. It is a significant increase over :e th e usual $2.5 millio n for th e program and, o f I visited Washington DC In early Mayas part of etA's delegation to the 30lh annual ,s course, a big increase over the zero funding we National Library Legislative Day. My calls on the offices of Senators Dodd and Liebennan had this year! Please thank your legislators and and Representative Shays were most interesting and instructive. I had no illusions of ~r meeting with the principals and was prepared to talk with Ihe high school student interns Ie especially Re presentative Be tty Boukus, chair of the G eneral Bonding Subcommittee of that these elected off.icials have on their staffs. Our first contact, in fact, was with ayoung p the Finance and Revenue Committee. woman I estimated to be no older than 16. She handed us her card, which identified her as a the holder of aPhD. That shut me up, although with Bridgeport PL Director Michael Golrick www.cga.state.ct.us/hdoI HD0 022.asp. y as my companion, speaking was not really an option. More good news came from the appropriations I learned a lot during these visits, but perhaps my most important lessons occurred ,f sid e of the budget. The Connecticut Library while riding in the back seats of taxicabs. After dinner with the delegation on our first d Consortium received an increase of $150,000 for evening in the capitol. CLA President Elect Christine Bradley and I dec·ided to viSit the new a total of $300,000. Again , time to thank your World War II Memorial. The memorial was most impressive on that balmy, moonlit night, Y leg islators, especia ll y the c hairs of the and there were few visitors, so we were able to take it in with a modicum of privacy. rl Elementary Educ ation and Secondary Education We hailed a cab for the trip back to the hotel. Our driver was in his early 30's, a new e immigrant and clearly of modest means. As we stopped for a light near our hotel, a 6 Subcommi t tee, Se nato r Ma ry Ann H andley www. sena tedems .state .ct.u s/ Ha ndley. h tm l homeless man knocked on the window, soliCiting money. The cabbie rolled down his window, and I was positive that he was going to shoo the man away, perhaps with a and Rep resen ta ti ve Shawn Johnston reprimand. Instead, he reached into his night's earnings, pulled out two dollar bills and www.cga.state.ct. us/hdo/HD0051.asp. handed them to the man. Although on amuch smaller scale than at the memorial, it was the Other bu dge t ite m s (iCONN, reQues t, second time that night that I was moved by the selfiess and generous nature of others. CCard, State Aid) we re level funded .• The next day, after our legis'lative visits, Chris dragged me along to the FDR Memorial. 5 haroll BrettJtiJl1eider, Co II 11 ect"/(lJt State Libral]1 In business clothes on awarm Washington day, we walked over three miles to get there . The memorial exceeded my expectations. I know of FDR from history books and my parents ' recollections, but to be reminded in such a stunning, visual way of what a great man and inspirational leader he was, made the entire trip worthwhile. Ihighly recommend avisit. Thank you, Chris. On the way back, blistersin full bloom, we opted for another cab ride.This time, ablack man in his mid to late 70s picked us up, and for the next twenty minutes we were treated The Department of Infonnation and Library to a fabulous tour of the city. I asked him if he had visited all the sites, museums, and Science at Southern Connecticut State buildings he was pointing out. "Of course I have'" he said, in atone reserved for ignorant University will convene its First Annual people who ask perfectly ridiculous questions. "I don't know why people would rather sit at home and watch TV when they have access to all this great history. And it's all free'" Graduates Gathering on October 2, 2004. Apparently I was confusing him with archetypical New Yorkers, like me, who lived there Plans are underway to have works~lops plus for 25 years and never once visited the Statue of Liberty. a luncheon with an author speaker. Details Chastened on anumber of counts, I returned to Connecticut secure in the knowledge that to come. Istill haven't learned to not judge others, and with the fervent hope that some day soon we will have aPresident deserving of amemorial like the one that honors FDR. And now, I bid you adieu. At long last Iam relieved of the burden of having to open avein once amonth to let acolumn bleed out. I appreCiate having had the opportunity to use this "bully pulpit" for the past year and I doubly appreciate the comments I've go~ten . Iassumed Connecticut Libraries solicits articl es, news, no one would read my columns and opinions, and p hotographs abo ut matte rs of was greatly surprised to find that inte res t to the state's library communit y. Send co ntributio ns to: many have. Iwas beginning to feel like ahotshot but was brought down David Kapp, Editor to earth ·in a conversation with my [email protected] successor. When I referred to my Phone: (860)647-0697 previous month's piece. assuming Fax: (860)647-7826 Chris would get the reference, she CO llI/ ed/mi·... ddeg(ltio l1 to tiN 30th 4 llynwood Drive said, "Oh, no offense, but I never tlllll/tal !\iational LibraJ] Legidatiol1 D(~J' Bolton. CT 06043 read your column '" Thanks, Chris. I iI/ M(~)' ill c/ll ded: (I-I) Cbri.r B)'(/d/~)'} Kel1 will be reading yours . With a Deadlille: Second U/'iggil/} Mar), _E llgelf, Mit'bml Golrick, magnifying glass and astyle manual Frida y of the momh. ,14m)' E tter, .J oe E ttl'!; and Le.f Ko zerrlllJitz close at hand' Contact Les at [email protected].

CONNECTICUT LIBRARIES • JUNE 2004 • PAGE 3 ImagIne a web site where Connecticut library workers content on the national WebJundion site. Divisional staff will can find a wide range of up-to-date professional resources­ manage content on the Connedicut web site and will be able to lSTA grant information, CIPA explanations, sample library create new resources as well as take advantage of those policies, online courses on everything from Microsoft Word to offered by WebJundion and the other state library WebJundion Linux, directories to continuing education classes in ConnediQJt, sites. WebJundion is a partnership where all parties share CT.Web guidelines for securing public access computers, message board content, thereby encouraging resource sharing and avoiding discussions on issues of concern to the library community in redundancy.OCle's WebJundion staff will contribute the deSign Jundion.org Connedicut and the nation, reviews of computer hardware and technical skills required to make the site work. and software products, and more. Such aweb site would have For Connedicut, this means having aweb site with the look, Coming in amix of resources from both local and national sources. feel, and content of the current WebJundion but with all the June cr.webJundion.org, coming online in late June, is that web additional Connedicut information that the OLD can add to it. ; site. The developers of the original WebJunction site­ Divisional staff will take advantage of the superior web­ WebJundion.org-and five state libraries, including Connedirut's, designing tools of WebJundion to improve existing content and I

~) I Tom N elVlJ/(1I1 have been working together to create similar sites specific to to add new content as it is created . At the same time, OLD each state's library community. staff will be able to seled content from other state library II WebJundion.org, ajoint projed of OClC, the Colorado State WebJundion Sites and organize it in away that brings national c Library, the Benton Foundation, Isoph, and TechSoup, is aweb and state materials together. II portal projed that continues the work of the Bill and Melinda WebJundion .org will continue to exist. cr.webJundion.org l Gates Foundation Library Program. (See CL, June 2003, page looks only slightly different and shares the same overall r The developers 8, for an article on WebJundion.) This program provided architedure as the national site, with the exception of aseparate h computers and Internet access along with ongoing tecllnology sedion devoted to specific services provided by the OlD to of the original h marlagement and training support to more than 10,000 libraries Connecticut's libraries, e.g., Connecticar, Library Service Centers, Web1unction across North America. WebJundion began as a means of etc. local and national content is organized side by side in the v supporting the work of the Gates Foundation by making online following broad subjed areas: site and five o resources and adiscussion forum available to libraries providing PolicIes and Practices addresses important national and II state libraries, public access computing services. Since its start in the spring regional issues and suggests ideas for improving service. d of 2003, WebJundion 's range of content has increased to Included :sample policies and job descriptions from Connedicut have been V cover more general library topics, such as library policies, libraries, Internet use policies, technology planning assistance, c ]}Jorking to­ marketing, and continuing education. minimum standards, best pradices in adult and children's b gether to create With this broadening perspedive, WebJundion began to services, building projed assistance, and marketing advice look for partners in a pilot projed that would combine the Technology Resources assists libraries in providing state­ similar sites professional development services of the national WebJundion of-the-art library services. Included: recommendations about projed with those available to libraries locally.The state libraries the latest technological tools, where to find the best computer specific to each y of ConnediQJt, Colorado, New Mexico, Iowa, and Washington support, how to choose the best hardware and software, how tl state's library agreed to join in the "WebJundion Community Partner Program," to maintain equipment, how to provide optimum Internet community. with the understanding that this new "WebJundion II" projed services, how to set up and maintain computer networks, how would launch in late spring of 2004. to maintain effedive seuJrity, and how to address accessibility WebJundion II gives CSL's Division of Library Development issues in the use of library technology (OLD) the opportunity to offer a one-stop-shopping approach Buying and Funding discusses money issues, helping to professional resources for Connedicut library workers. The libraries spend wisely and attrad more funding. Included : current OLD web pages on the state library site­ hardware and software reviews, information on discount www.cslib.org-already provide development resources and programs, LSTA and other CSl administered grant information, an explanation of the division's services. cr.webJundion.org fundraising opportunities, purchasing contracts available in integrates all the content on the OLD web pages with the Connecticut Learning Center is the continuing education go-to place for library personnel. Included : a calendar of continuing education classes in Connedicut, downloads of course material for staff and patrons, information on computer training labs in Connedicut, COlllil/lled 011 page 6

CONNECTICUT LIBRARIES • JUNE 2004 • PAGE 4 In April 1997 the Acton library Board reported to the Old Saybrook Board of Selectmen that "the current library viII facility no longer meets the needs of the community" and !to Ise awarded a contract for a feasibility study to Tuthill and Wells of Avon . The study determined that it was indeed IOn Adon possible to add approximately 14,000 sf to the existing 1re 7,820 sf building. In February 1999 the town voted to Public ng approve $2.4 million to expand and renovate the library. gn A$500,000 State Construction Grant was sought and Library, awarded . Amajor boost to fundraising was provided by lk, Old a $1,000,000 challenge grant donated by residents he William and Ruby Tucker, which matched every private Saybrook it. donation and reduced the burden on local taxpayers. ~b­ This, along with a close working partnership with the ld b] JO l1et M. Cro zi. er Friends, raised the remainder of the funds needed for _0 the expansion. Tuttle and Wells were awarded the design ry In 1854, forty women of the town of Old Saybrook contract, and Encon Construction was awarded the lal Director Janet M. Crozier contributed one dollar toward a book-purchasing fund and general construction contract. Architect formed areading room, adopting the name "ladies Circulating The biggest hurdle faced by the board and the staff was rg Tuthill and Wells, Avon library:' The operation was placed in charge of a Miss keeping the library open on site throughout construction. For 111 General Contractor Hotchkiss, the librarian . By 1865 there were almost five fourteen months our existing operating space was reduced by te Encon Construction, hundred books in the collections, and these were moved to the 3,000 sf but supplemented by one doublewide trailer for to Branford. home of librarian Harriet Willard on Pennywise lane. administration and one regular trailer for the non-fiction "5, Total Cost $3.8 million In 1870, the collection, grown to eight hundred volumes, collection. The temporary discomfort of cramped quarters was le Town Bond $2.4 million was moved to the building now known as the Masonic Temple, soon forgotten when the addition/renovation was completed. State Grant $500,000.00 owned by Thomas Adon .ln 1872, having outgrown the Temple, Amajor highlight of the library is the 25' long and 5' high Id Dedication April 6, 2003 the library was moved to 40 Old Boston Post Road, abuilding ceramic tile mural, "Tides of Time", that depicts the history of e. Size 21,400 sq. ft. deeded to the town by Mr. Acton. Books were loaned for two Old Saybrook. Town residents donated this wall in celebration 1t Collection 65,000 weeks, to both residents and non-residents, for a fee of six of their community heritage e, Population 10,000 cents per volume. In 1904, the town agreed to underwrite The library has become abeautiful cultural resource center 's book fees and expenses, and Acton Public library became for Old Saybrook, drawing even more patrons to the children's l_ "free to the inhabitants of Old Saybrook, under proper library and to community programs, and increasing circulation regulations:' substantially. Patrons now enjoy aseparate children's library, It The library remained at 40 Old Post Road for eighty-nine areading room, ayoung adult section, and dedicated technology 'r years. With each passing year, Old Saybrook grew and use of space-all located on the first level. Program rooms, a small v the library grew with it. Between 1950 and 1960, the town conference room, storage, and administrative space are located !t experienced drastic changes as a result of an increase in on the second level. The beautiful surroundings graced by population from 3,500 to 5,000. Since then the population has wonderful pieces of art are the result of atown-wide effort to increased to 10,000, with an estimated 20,000 to 25,000 support the library. residents during the summer months. This growth has taxed alilown facilities, including Ihe library. larger quarters were desperately needed, including expanded, separate reading rooms for adult browsers, eager children, and students engaged in research. This need was Acton Public Library accommodated in 1967 with the opening of a new library building located at 60 Old Boston Post Road. Just ten years Old Saybrook later the Acton Public library Board of Directors commissioned Thursday, August 12, 10-12:30 Nolan lushington to do a building needs study. He recommended an addition, but no action was taken. These People involved with the Acton Library project plans were discussed periodically until a new space needs will be on hand to cliscuss it. analysis was done in 1995. This analysis led to the development of a building program by the Board of Directors.

CONNECTICUT LIBRARIES· JUNE 2004 • PAGE 5 LOOKING AT BOOKS wh y sho uld we igno re that sensiti vity in how COlllililifa f rom page 2 we trea t th e seco nd most ho no red of individuals amo ng us? I urge th e associatio n to abandon its about what the Boss has to say. His brother fought in Vietnam . His brother was not a racist who went there to "kill the yellow fla s h and d as h a nd restore dig nity to the an man:' His brother survived. His brother did not come home to Outstanding Librarian process by informing the Cc a jobless, crime-filled existence. He wants to know how winner prior to the co nference, continuJJ1g to nc Springsteen could get things so wrong. Still, the listener is acknowledge o the r nominees In some re hooked. Despite his protests, he cannot ignore the Singer's meaning ful manner besides a public beheading, \V\ tale of Vietnam-era America. and letting us all hear a sampling of the pithy re A small-town policeman struggles to come to grips with words o f the end o rsers. We might even go so far fo Springsteen songs involving police. He quickly recognizes the as to so li cit a few re marks from the new Ie: people and situations in several songs. However, when he Outstancling Librarian at the awards ceremony­ comes to "American Skin;' asong written about the "forty-one provided the dance numbers don't run on too we shots " fired by New York City police officers into an unarmed long, of course .• black man named Amadou Diallo, he parts company with Bill U ricchlo, T ri-CampNs L ibraries Director, Springsteen. Still, the policeman-listener's complaints sound U nive rsit), of Co nnecticut "C almost like lyrics to a Springsteen song: "[He] forgets about a IS hell of alot of people, who also live in our American skin and Editor's Note Readers will find comments s tc who go about their lives ... trying to hold onto work, and make o n all no minees for the 2004 Outstanding s tc ends meet!" Librarian award in the Mar issue of CL, Tl One listener calls Springsteen, "a novelist who's out there pages 8-9. gr: holding up right and wrong:' In a high-tech and information­ In savvy world, whether novelist or poet, storyteller or rock star, Bruce Springsteen conveys messages and meaning to a TECHNOLOGY ne twenty-first century audience in ways that Homer would COlilinNed from page 4 an be appreciate. online tutorials provided by WebJunction (in partnership with Read more reviews by Vince Juliano at cla.uconn.edul Isoph www.isoph.com). links to other training resources on reviewsl lookbook.html. the web, tools for training trainers, and PowerPoint demonstrations from popular DLD workshops. Also, the DLD :tv! NO ENVELOPE, PLEASE! hopes to offer online tutorials addressing local training needs, fe Co nlitl Ned from page 2 e.g., how to apply for LSTA grants. Because of Connecticut's b ~ ,va nt their adulation or expect our devotees to participation in the WebJunction II project, all of the online ve fo rm fan clubs in our honor. Receiving our learning content will be free to Connecticut library workers. B, version o f the Oscar does not embellish our Community Center is a place to find out about the :tv! careers, raise our salaries, or put us on the cover Connecticut library community and to communicate with other 5; I urge the o f People. What wInners galD IS an library staff. Included: direclories of libraries, library :tv! association to acknowledgement from their colleagues that organizations and library personnel in Connecticut, recent library U their work has been va lued and that their views news items of interest to Connecticut, online message boards :tv! abandon its and effo rts are respected not only by their state on topiCS of both national and state interest, career information, pc flash and dash associatio n but also b y their profession in and information on library awards in Connecticut and A elsewhere. C and restore general. It is an award worthy of note and of care in its giving. This organization helps to conceptualize the content of e: CTWebJunction, but the practical value of the site lies in its dignity to the \'\fhen I was on CLA's Executive Board a few ad interconnections.Technology planning material in "Policies and ye ars ago, the topic dt/ moment was whether or pi Outstanding Procedures;' for example, links to relevant discussions in the not the association should continue running two 01 "Community Center" message boards, to NPower technology Librarian candidate s fo r the presidency or if it would be Sr planning tools (made possible off-site by WebJunction), to more suitable to nominate just one person. Two w process. sample technology plans in Connecticut, and in the future, to an re aso ns were given for our decision to run only D online tutorial on technology planning in the "Learning Center:' -Bill Uricchio to one candidate: it was increasingly difficult to CTWebJunction.org goes live in late June with enhancements find two people who were willing to make the added as the year continues. Most of DLD's web content will gl time commitment necessary for a three year be transferred to the new web site at the start-up, and anyone pc enli stment (president-elect, president, and past­ looking for development information at the current CSL web VI president), and it was painful for the "loser" to site will be redirected to the new site. People who are unfamiliar be defea ted by a vote of his or her peers. with WebJundion.org are encouraged to visit the web site The second rationale applies as well to the now, register, and take advantage of the many resources handling o f the Outstanding Librarian award currently available. G ceremo ny. If we have been rightly sensitive to Tom Newman, Assistant Director; Middletown Library ar the feelings of colleagues in our election process, Service Center, Connecticut State Library cc

CONNECTICUT LIBRARIES • JUNE 2004 • PAGE 6 w his article is based on the recent CEMA superhero was the primary genre in the 1960s. lis workshop presenred by Kat Kan, who writes Toda), almost any genre may be published in ts the column "Graphically Speaking" for VOYA the graphic novel format, including: super-hero/ Ie and reviews graphic novels for Diamond super-heroine, science fiction, fantasy, horror, The Graphic Ie Comics. Others well-known in the graphic adventure, detective/mystery, western, war/ Novel :0 novel field include Robin Brenner, who combat, real-life, historical fiction, funny animal, Ie review s graphic novels on her website, cartoon, humor/satire, romance, educational, by Frances AradeaN g, W'cvw.noflyingnotights.com; Steve Raiteri, who alternative/experimental, pin-up art, adult/ Iy reviews graphic novel s and writes a column erotic, and manga. U for L ibra!), journal; and Steve Miller, who IV leads the graphic novel li stserv, www.lists.topica.com/lists/GN LIB-L, and Manga is a generic o website, www.angelfire.com/comics/gnlib/. term that refers to Japanese comic books.

,~ In addition to con­ "Graphic" refers to the pictorial presenration. It taining casual nudity, is the use of sequenrial visual images to tell a violence, and bath­ story. Usually, graphic novels are self-conrained room humor, these stories or a collection of issues from comic books. titles are read right to Thus, the definitio n by Michael Lavin, "/\ left, I.e., back-to graphic novel is a book-length, original story told front, requiring some in comic book format." The term "graphic adjustmcot by Ameri­ novel" was first used by Will Eisner, an artist can readers. In Japan, and cartoonist who was a pioneer in comic manga are published books. weekly, contaIn a compilation of stories, and are similar in size and paper quality to our phonebooks. Many graphic novels Popular manga titles include Astro Boy by feature super-heroes Osamu Tezuk a, Dragonbal/ Z by Akira based on the comic Toriyama, Ranma 1 /2 by Rumiko Takahashi, verslOn such as and Cardcaptor Sakura by artistic group Clamp. Graphic novels Batman by Frank Many American girls are attracted to shojo Mill er, Ultimate manga because the), fearure romance and fantasy are a format, Spider-Man by Brian­ advenrure series such as Mars by Fuyumi Soryo, not a genre ... Sailor Moon by Naoko Takeuchi, Paradise Kiss Michael Bendis, or The superhero Ultim ate X-Men by by Ai Yazawa, and Pearh Girl by Miwa Ueda. Mark Miller. Other Closel), connected with manga is anime­ was the primary popular senes are animated cartoons. Many anime series have genre in the Akiko by Mark been adapted to manga and vice-versa. American Crilley, fea turing the students are familiar with many manga titles 1960s. Today extraterrestrial though anime shown on television. almost any advenrures of a fourth-grader who travels to the planet Smoo; AstroCity by Kurt Busiek, a story genre may be of superheroes who fight crime; Bone by Jeff Graphic " novels " contain both fiction and published in the nonfiction. A special Pulitzer Prize was awarded Smith, the epic adventures of the Bone family, graphic novel who are exiled in the desert; Sp)'BOJ' by Peter in 1992 to Art Spielgelman, author of the graphic David, in which a teen learns he has super talents novel, }\IIaus: A SlmJivor's Tale. Spielgelman based format. to deal with common problems of homework, this book on his parents and their life during the girls and bullies; Young justice by Peter David, Holocaust in World War II. pOrtraYIng six teenage superheroes fighting Barefoot Gell by Keiji Nakazawa, published in villains. the 1970's, tells of a yo ung boy, Gen, and his family during the World War II bombing of Hiroshima. Another war stor), is Fax from Saraje!Jo by Joe Kubert, who relates an escape Graphic novels are a format, not a genre. Marvel from Bosnia during the Serbian occupation. and DC Comics dominate the publishing of Raymond Briggs, author of the well- known comics. They are followed by Image. The Continued 011 page 8

CONNECTICUT LIBRARIES • JUNE 2004 • PAGE 7 THE GRAPHIC NOVEL EXCELLENCE IN LIBRARY SERVICE AWARDS ContiJ7ued ji-Olll page 7 children's book The Snowman, also wrote a Center that Bronson Library Director Leo N. Flanagan had envisioned in nonfiction graphic novel entitled E thel & E rnest his application to the IMLS began with the hiring of J ack Oxton as project that chronicles his parent's life in Britain before, manager. There's no such trung as easy money, and there's no such trung during, and after Wo rld War II. as an easy major construction job inside a pubuc facility. Flanagan was wa: Nonfiction titles also address social issues. Ollr fuU of doubts. His staff had been cut in half. He was tempted to return the on Cancer Year by J oyce Brabner relates fighting money and forget the project. The Library Board o f Agents, however, tak cancer to th e conflict in th e Middle East. Judd wanted to move ahead, and so we did. wh Winick wrote Pedro and Me: Friendship, Loss and The ITC team, library staff and patrons plunged into the inevitable rna What 1 Learned to share the me mory of Pedro chaos of construction with Flanagan determined to maintain a long 1 Zamora, who was his friend and roommate on tradition of keeping the building open to the public no matter what. The In} th e MTV show " Real World" and who died from patience of patrons was challenged by the di sorgani za tio n, but the promise Lit AJDS. of what was to come helped to ease their aggravation. Thousands of the library's 260,000 volumes had to be moved-not just the business and art books housed in th e area now claimed by the lTC, but by domino effect, almost every book in the library. Staging areas were SOl Graphic novels appeal to reluctant readers, set up where some books could sit while others were moved closer to res seco nd language readers, and may be the only what might be their final position. Parts of the collection had to be moved Sll~ b ooks th a t some boys will select. The several times, turning the job of keeping the inve ntory in some sort of of illus tratio ns provide valuable co ntext clues to order into a Chinese puzzle. to assist in deco ding the tex t. The art attracts In a dramatic illusu·ation of the speed of technolOgical change, construction to creative kid s. The subject matter of superheroes that included raising the floor in the ITC so that wi.ring and cables could be W( and contemporary adolescent problems appeals installed and hidden away would not be necessary in today's wireless to young adults. The Tale oj One Bad Rat by environment. Indeed, a truly wireless system would have spared the ITC alrt Bryan Talbot po rtrays a teenager escaping sexual team many of the electrical headaches that the aging building posed. loc abuse by running away with a pet rat and a In the fall of 2002, during a p eri od o f upheaval for the library, ITC shi collection o f Beatrix Potter books. ROtlte 666 Project Manager Oxton left and was succeeded by Bill Bender, an existing di.r Voilime One: HighuJay of Horror by Tony Bedard ITC employee, a software expert, and the chief developer and instructor mc is the first in a new horror series. A normal gi.rl of the free computer courses the ITC was beginning to offer to the public. Pal discovers she has the power to zap things and Bender was not interested in project manager as a permanent assignment, pal people with electricity in E lectric Girl by however, and in the spring of 2003, M. Tolga Demirci was rured for the me Michael Bre nn a n. EIfQllest, a fantasy classic job. An electrical engineer with experience in the construction industry, pal from the 1970s that was one of the first series to Demirci brought the expertise that solved the electrical problems with the move from comic boo kstores to libraries, is the installation of the new system. tru being republished. Authored by Wendy and The library now has a state-of-the-art technology center with more than sql Richard Pini, EIfQnest combines European, 100 computers for public use and two classroom s with 13 terminals each eXI Norse, and Native American m ythologies wrule for offering free computer instruction to residents. In fact, the ITC has hie telling the stor y of elves searching for a met its mission in a way that has won recognition statewide as a model for to home land. other pubuc libraries. In March 2004, it won an award for excellence for hie bringing computer instruction to all segments of the community. The ITC employs nine people: three tec hnicians, a marketing associate, G o rman, Michele (2003). Gettillg graphic!: Usillg an administrator, three instructors, and a project manager. Outreach into graphic novels to promote literal)' JIJith preteens the community has added to class attendees those who otherwise might and teens. Worthington, OH: Linworth. not ha\Te come into the library. City workers, including offtce staff and Lavin, Michael R. (Summer 98). Comic books police officers, have trained in ITC computer classes. Special hardware and graphic novels: What to buy. Serials and software makes computer technology accessible to many disabled RevienJ. 24(2), 31-46. pau·ons, and special classes are offered to those who are bund and or have Weiner, Stephen (2003). Faster than a speeding low vision. btillet: The rise of the graphic novel. New York: Today, the ITC offers courses almOSt daily, in English and Spanish, in NBM. the computer programs used most widely by individuals and businesses. Weine r, Stephen (2001 ). The 101 best graphic About 275 residents a month-or 3,276 a year-take advantage o f the lTC's novels. New York: NBM.• free courses. About 95 people a day-o r 27,170 a year-come into the library to use a computer. Frances Nadeau) Head, Curriculum Lab, Central With the lTC, the Bronson Library has increased the value of its services Connectimt State University to the citizens of Waterbury tremendously . "This is ...a resource that will Continued 011 page 9

CONNECTICUT LIBRARIES • JUNE 2004 • PAGE B EXCELLENCE IN LIBRARY SERVICE AWARDS them with enthusiasm. The state u'ooper who joined us, Sergeant Hufcut, COIl/illller! from p age 8 even chose a story to read to the children himself. We offered four story times every Friday morning, and provided Library affect the future o f Waterbury," said Mary Engels services to well over 300 area children. The beauty of the program is its of the State Library and the CLA Public Library simplicity. The only preparation required was to organize which vehicle Awards Committee when Waterbury's award would arrive for each story time and then to select appropriate boo ks and was announced. The three-year IMLS grant ends hope for good weather. We chose to have the starring vehicle be a surprise on September 30, and the city is scheduled to each week so if we had a change there would be no di sappointed faces in take over maintenance of the computer resources the crowd. while library staff take over the teaching and "Stories That Go Vrrooom" was a wonderful commuDiry event. Parents management functions of the ITC. and children loved the program. It gave them a chance to interact with Louise Axelson, M arketillg Associate, and praise the staff behind the snowplows and pavers, the volunteers who Tn/or17lalion Techllology Center, S/Ias Bronsoll man the Fire Department, and the police who keep our town safe. L ibral)!, IVate rbu1)! Marla M artin, Assistant Chiidren'J L ibrarian, Woodbury Public Libra!]!

The Lyme Public Library has an FY04 budget of $134,944 and serves a Sometimes, the smallest ideas yield the biggest population o f just over 2000. The library is open 40 hours per week with results. "Stories That Go Vrrooom" began as a a staff of two fuU-time and four part-time employees. Each iss ue of our suggestion to our director, Pat Lunn. The wife newsletter, mailed bi-monthly to aU town residents, features a top-ten list. of Woodbury's director of public works had been Over the last eight years, it has become one of the most popular features to an Open Cockpit Day that allowed children of the newsletter and has proved a very versatile and useful tool for to look in side large r vehicles. She wondered if promoting the library'S programs and services. The li st has been used to Woodbury could offer a day like that. highlight special collections, promote interest in lesser-used parts of th e Ann Bumstead, children's librarian, and I had collection, to highlight periodical titles, audio-visual collections, and to already established an outdoor story time at our emphasize materials on specific themes or subjects. In addition, it has local park, and with it a solid working relation­ been very useful as a public relations tool during budget season and ship with the \,(/o odbury parks and recreation National Library Week for reminding patrons how important the Library director, so we knew immediately that we would is to the community and how cost-effective library services are. When incorporate the large vehicles into our Hollow preparing our portfolio for the Public Library Service Award, it seemed Park Story Times. The Parks and Recreation De­ appropriate to present it in the form of a top-ten list. Here it is. partment gave us use o f the pavilion and refresh­ ments for the children, the Public Works D e­ 10) Our Furry Librarian, Emma the Cat Emma was adopted from a partment provided a backhoe and a payloader, local animal shelter in February 2003 and wa s immediately embraced by the Volunteer Fire D epartment provided a fire the communiry and became the talk of the town. Patrons bring her treats truck, and the re sident state trooper provided a and toys, stop by to vi sit her (often checking out a book or video while squad car. The children were able to climb in , they happen to be at the Library), and bring explore, touch, and ask questions about the ve­ friends and relatives visiting fro m out of hicles. The adults, who really enjoyed being able town to vi si t her too. She makes patrons to share information about their work, their ve­ fe el welcome and at home and she helps hicles, and what tbey do for the community, met strengthen the connections between staff and patrons. Emma has been use ful in mak­ ing patro ns, especially children, feel that tbe library is a fun and happy place through the library's " Name the Cat" contest and E milia, L)'me Public her fust anniversary party. E mma al so has Libral), 's fu rry Friend her own Link on the library's web site and delights her benefactors by sending thank you notes that she signs with a paw print. E mma's favorite place is the stool at the circulation desk where she holds court and gets lots of hugs and stroking. 9) A Display Case Highlighting Our Patrons' Interests The library's displa y space is limited to a Plexigla s case approximately 36"w X 18" deep X 24" high. We encourage re sidents to di splay personal collections of intere st to the community, to exhibit the work of local authors, and to present information abo ut co mmunity o rganizations . The library especially encourages children to display items in th e case. In addition to COIl/iI1Ner! on page 10

CONNECTICUT LIBRARIES· JUNE 2004 • PAGE 9 Connecticut library EXCELLENCE IN LIBRARY SERVICE AWARDS Combined with the Library's collection of videos Association Conl/nued from page 9 and DVDs, there are over 1000 film titles OFFICERS the loca l Cub Scout and Brownie troops, available to patrons. lit President Les Kozerowitz individual children have ex hibited their When Tucky Jewett, a master ga rdener who co [email protected] collections of Beanie Babies, baseball cards, and lived in Lyme, died several years ago, her family P ast President Karen ['vIc Nuiry homemade craft items. They are th ri lled to see donated her personal collection of a \ kmcn ul [email protected] approximate ly 500 b ooks on gardening, VP/President Elect their collections publicly displayed and know inl Chris Bradley that the), are contributing to their community. landscaping, horticulture, anel b o tany to the WI [email protected] 8) Creative and Innovative Floral library. m( Treasurer Elect Jan fisher Arrangements The Lyme Gard en Club The library's Permanent Art Collectio n re­ of j fish [email protected] provid es a fre sh floral arrangement or plant for flects the Lyme/ Old L)'me area's artistic heritage. an Treasurer Veronica Stevenson The site of the former Connecticut Impressionist tr; [email protected] the circulation desk each week. These original ALA Representative and colorful creations help keep the librar), Colony, the Florence Griswold l'vIuseum, and the oc Susan Herzog bright and cheery, especiall), during dreary Lyme Academy fri [email protected] winter months. The Garden Club also helps to of Fine Arts, the pr NELA Representative maintain the library grounds throug ho ut the region has been ha Kris Jacobi year, tends to seasonal flowers in the o utdoor home to many be Jacobikr@eastern·ct. edu Region 1 Representative planters, and decorates o ur doors with swags and talented artists Mar\' Lou \'(Ii"lev wreaths during the holiday season. whose paint­ mlwigle y@ norf~lkl i brary ~ rg 7) Free Magazine and Book Swap We have ings have been pr Region 2 Representative a very limited periodicals budge t, so several donated to the Tony Bernardo years ago we bega n asking patrons to bring in libraf)' over the o direeto [email protected] Landscape painting by George magazines that they subscribe to and no longer years. Included sa. Region 3 Representative Bruestle, part of Lyme PL's are works from Peter Ciparelli wan t. To these, we added issues that were being art collectiotl. th [email protected] withdrawn from the library, and the result was a father and son fe: Region 4 Representative very popular magazine exchange with a high painters George and Bertram Bruestle, George "1 Bernadette Baldino turnover. A t about the same time, Children's Volkert, and Margaret Cooper. The paintings a [email protected] beautifully capture the agricultural heritage of Region 5 Representative Services Coordinator Barbara Carlson, along Bl Charles Getchell with Jan Dennis, media specialist from Lym e Lyme as well as the beaut)' of the local land­ Pl [email protected] Consolidated School, ins titu ted a book swap for scape. th Region 6 Representative National Library Week. Students at the school 5) Special Programming for All Ages The 21 Theresa Conle v (grades K-5) were asked to bring books they no library offers a range of programs to patrons from M [email protected] longer wanted to school or to the library. They preschool through adult. Since we are located In CONNECTICUT LIBRARIES were given a voucher, redeemable for another next to the Lyme Consolidated School, students H The newsletter is published book, for each book donated. The swap proved can walk to the library to attend after school K­ fe eleven times each year. 5 programs in the arts and sciences. The library Subscriptions: S35 in North so p o pular that i t has become an o ngoing Ja I\merica; S40 elsewhere program. It's a great way to encourage reading hosts a \\felcome to Kinderga rten program for Sr ISSN 0010-616X. and provid es students with books that are new children and th eir parents in conjunction with E- Editor David Kapp to them at no charge. the school's kindergarten orientation. After cc [email protected] 6) Special Collections The library is the orientation at the school, participants walk to VI Book Review Editor fortunate recipient of several large and important the library to hear a st0f)' about beginning lif Vince Juliano school. C hildren are given co pies of Donald [email protected] donations. J\mo ng them are the Dominick Technology Columnist Dunne Video Collection, the T ucky Jewe tt Crews' Scbool13m, and the staff talks with parents Isabel Danforth Garden Book Collection, and the Permanent Art about the role the library can and should play in w [email protected] Collection. their children's education. Editorial Comm. Chair Dominick Dunne, author, celebrity trial The library also h os ts adult programs on Barbara Bailey [email protected] commentator, and former screenwriter, owns a h ealth, nature, history and current events, arc, STAFF home in Lyme and is a m ember of the Academy and literature. After the passage of the Patriot Administrative Assistant of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. As such, Act, the library hosted a program titled Karen Zoller he receives videos of movies being considered " Natio nal Security vs. Civil Liberties: Is the Bill [email protected] (phone) 860-465-5006 for Academy Award nominations. In 2001 he of Rights in Jeopardy?" A college professor who (fax) 860-465-5004 donated his collection of over 500 videotapes to specializes in constitutional issues presented the Webmaster Judy Smith the library, and it has become one o f the most program. Afterwards, she instituted a new course c( [email protected] popular and heavily used parts of our collection. at her college dealing with the balance between Ii Dunne continued to donate new titles each year national security and personal freedom. H er fI INE until the academy is sued a prohibition against decision is a good example of the ways in which p I , the tapes leaving th e possession o f its members. Contillued 011 page 11 n

CONNECTICUT LIBRARIES' JUNE 2004 • PAGE 10 oos EXCELLENCE IN LI BRARY SERVICE AWARDS instruction and email friend s and fam.ily, and anyone can escape the stress les Con/inNed from page 10 and hectic pace of modern life by finding a guiet corner to curl up with a library p rograms have ripple effects in tb e good book or magazine. The Lyme Library has something to o ffer almost ho community. everyone. lily 4) Dedicated Staff and Volunteers Lyme is 1) All of the Above Lyme Public Library is a small library with very of a very small town, and the library is a very casual, limited resources and staff. D espite that, we are proud of the range and 19, informal place. Staff are on a first-name basis level of services we provide to the community. With the future in mind, he with most patrons and try to go the extra mile to we are in the beginning stages of a building program so that the library meet their needs, lending them personal copies will continue to meet community needs in future generatio ns. :e­ o f books that are not in the collection, delivering Tberesa Coni!!)!, Direc/or, L)'177 B Plo/blic L ibra !]! ~e. and picking up material s, and providing 1St transporta tion to and from the library o n he occasion. Sometimes our p atro ns just need a ny friendly ear or some companionship; we try to Turning a disappointment into a challenge, Rockville Public Library be provide th at as well. The library is fortunate to improved library service to the town of Vernon by finding ways to do :o n have dedicated volunteers who work here, move business m ore effectivel)' despite the limitations of its structure. Involving 1y boo ks for our book sale, and provide handy man community groups in the project helped focus town-wide attentio n on th e ts se rvices. Childre n 's Services Coordinato r Ii braf)' . t­ Barbara Carlson instituted a student volunteer The library, designed by C harles Platt, is located in Rockville's hi storic on program, and they help with a variety of ta sks. di strict and will celebrate its 100,h anniversary on June 29. By the late le 3) Our Friends and Community SuppOrt 1990s, it was apparent that the adult department needed more space to le Our Friends group conducts the annual book accommodate its growing collection and techno logical resources. The :d sale, the library's primary fundraiser. As part of building's shabby, downtrodden appearance hinted at better days in the m that weekend, the Friends usually host a program distam past. Although an addition was considered, a $4.5 m.ilI.ion expansion -n featuring authors or books. In 2000 they presented was tabled because o f fmancial considerations in a declining economy. The ;e "Love, Murder, Mys tery and the Atomic Bomb," priva tely funded library is s uppo rted mainly from an endowme nt and ;s a panel discussion fe aturing Luanne Rice, Amy receives o nl y 18% of its annual budget ($5.06 per capita) from the town. )f Bloom, D o minick Dunne, David Handler and U ndaunted by the decision not to expand the building, the library 1­ Pulitze r Prize winner Richard Rhodes. In 2001 undertook a year- long space reorganization in 2002 with the goals of the Friends presented "The Mockingbird in the delivering 21" century service in a 1904 building and of increasing use of e 21 so Century," a discussion w ith Robert and interest in th e lib ra ry. A lthough the project cost a modest $130,000, it n Mulligan, director of T o Kill a Mockingbird, and recaptured the beauty of the building's historical features while providing d in 2003 they hosted "A Mystery in the Making: a comfortable and appealing place for patrons to visit. How Mystef)T Writers Create Their Stories," The first step was to assess available resources. To maximize available fe a turing four mystef)' writers Roberta Isleib, space, boo ks were shifted by a Boy Scout troop to a space previously used y Janice Law, Jessic a Speart, and Mary-Ann Tirone for storage. Aggressive weeding freed up shelf space for new books, and Smith. In 2001 the Friends also hosted "An the collection was refocused o n the purchase of materials that better met Evening w ith Dominic k Dunne," g iv ing th e the needs of the community. f\fter this project was completed, both community an opportunity to thank him for hi s circulation and libraf)' visi ts rose by 30%. video collecti on and to hear him talk about hi s Cleaning ou t a basement storeroom resulted in th e discovery of Ii fe and career. hi storical items, including a subscription book with library records from Other communit), groups support the librar)' 1811-48. The document was copied and the original rebound in a volume include the Lyme Land Conservation T rus t, that allows browsing without damaging the fragile paper. The Friends which donates books and periodicals , and the donated an attractive displ ay case to exhibit many of the treasures Lyme Public Hall Associati o n, which makes its discovered during the renovation. building available for the book sale and other The read ing room was rearranged, o ne side serving as a browsing area fund raisers. featuring new books, videos and magazines, and the o ther with computers 2) A Welcoming Place to Choose Your Next and resources for research and study. The furniture can be rearranged for Reading Selection, Email a Friend, Write a special events such as the concerts that are held there to take advantage of Paper, or See Your Neighbor The library is a the excellent acoustics. de/acto community center. Whethe r it's for The new configuration accommodates do uble the number of public rec rea tion, sc hoolwork, compute r use, or Internet computers and provides an area for patrons to plug in their laptops. companions hip, town reside nts gather at the The installation of DSL and new cabling has speeded up o nline access. A new libra q T. New mothers find support a nd security S)Tstem has made it possible to add music and books o n CD and friendship from other mothers at children's films on DVD to the collectlon. These are fea tured on attractive kiosks and programs, new town residents meet and make display racks atop face-out magazine shelving.

new friends, senior citizens receive computer COII/ilJll ed 011 page 12

CONNECTICUT LIBRARIES • JUNE 2004 • PAGE 11 EXCELLENCE IN LIBRARY SERVICE AWARDS musicians supplied the entertainment. One of the town's Contintted from page 11 representatives presented a citation from the Connecticut General Assembly recognizing the anniversary and the Another kiosk contains "Staff Picks," books that have project. proven popular with patrons. Staff members write short In September 2003, tbe library and the Rockville Downtown reviews of their selections, allowing patrons to benefit from Association co-sponsored a "Business After Hours" event reader's advisory services provided by a large number of for the Chamber of Commerce to showcase the renovation. staff with a broad range of interests. About 100 such books Sixty-five business people attended, and the library received are in circulation at any time, and new selections are added an economic development award from the Chamber of constantly. Commerce for the project. The rughlight of the renovation was the restoration of the During the summer of 2003, the children's department held original marble circulation desk, previously obscured by a 17 programs for the special anniversary kickoff year. large wooden fortress-like structure. It is now the focal point Programs for adults included a book discussion series and of the reading room. An unobstructed view of the magnificent senior outreach program on the theme, "When the Library marble arch was created by incorporating parts of the desk was Young," and another book discussion series entitled "A into the new circulation area. During construction, a beautiful N Town Like Ours," featuring works on small towns. The oak desk was discovered under the marble counter; this has centennial celebration will culminate with a concert in June Li also been incorporated into the modern, functional circulation 2004 by well-known Hartford area tenor Peter Harvey, by area. Other improvements included repainting areas of the featuring music from the 1904 era. building, installing new carpeting, adding new furniture in By renovating and rearranging space creatively, the library the adult department, and refurbishing oak reading tabIes has deferred the need for an addition for years into the future. original to the building. The library is meeting the challenge of providing cutting­ br Although circulation and library visitor statistics have edge service while preserving the integrity of its building, C( increased as a result of these changes, staff feel strongly that which has been called the "crown jewel" of Rockville's an the library must reach beyond tbe physical building. The historic district. Se adult programming librarian presents monthly programs at The library has also initiated a dialog with the mayor and te four housing facilities for seniors and brings a selection of town manager about creating a stronger partnership with the of books for them to borrow. The Friends offer book delivery town to increase support for the library. Officials have been at service for homebound patrons. impressed with the new look as well as increased use by w Various events have drawn attention to library residents, and they see the library as an integral part of the th improvements and attracted the community to the building. continuing restoration of the downtown. ac The Eagle Scout responsible for the book-shifting project was By partnering with local groups, Rockville Public Library cl honored with tbe privilege of raising a new flag at a ceremony is building a strong constituency to ensure its future and has p: in April 2003. Area legislators attended, including US revitalized its role in the community. Effective action to draw Representative Rob Simmons, who arranged for the flag to P( positive attention to the library and garner community be flown over the Capitol in Washington. b: support can be accomplished within fiscal constraints by In May 2003, the library kicked off its centennial observance di making the most of available resources. ]j( with a celebration that drew over 500 people. Local Denise Stankovics, Head of Reference, Adult Programming organizations such as the Vernon Junior Women's Club rc and Public Relations, Rockville Public Library helped provide food and children's activities. Local ta a( s<:

Connecticut Libraries PRSRTSTD F Volume 46, Number 6 U.s. POSTAGE o PAID CONNECTICUT UBRARY ASSOCIATION Hartford, CT o PO Box 85 Permit No. 945 r:: Willimantic, CT 06226-0085 F C v

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