STAFF

Coeditors Cy Dillon Ferrum College Virginia P.O. Box 1000 Ferrum, Virginia 24088 (540) 365-4428 [email protected] Libraries January/February/March, 2008, Vol. 54, No. 1 Lyn C. A. Gardner Hampton Public Library 4207 Victoria Blvd. Hampton, Virginia 23669 (757) 727-1218 COLUMNS (757) 727-1151 (fax) Lyn C. A. Gardner 3 Openers: Literacy: The Long View [email protected] Donna Cote 9 President’s Column Sara B. Bearss, Ed. 43 Virginia Reviews

Editorial Board Lydia C. Williams Longwood University Library Farmville, Virginia 23909 FEATURES (434) 395-2432 [email protected] Lydia Williams 11 An Interview with Virginia Author Extraordinaire David Baldacci Ed Lener 17 2007 VLA Annual Conference College Librarian for the Sciences Virginia Tech University Libraries Michelle L. Young 37 Faculty-Librarian Collaborations Facilitate P.O. Box 90001 Information Literacy Competence in the Blacksburg, Virginia 24062-9001 Large Classroom Setting (540) 231-9249 Ruth Smith, Brittany Horn, 40 A Partnership between a Public High [email protected] and Shelley Chitwood School’s Health Sciences Academy and an Academic Health Sciences Library Karen Dillon Manager, Library Services Carilion Health System P.O. Box 13367 Roanoke, Virginia 24033 (540) 981-7258 Virginia Libraries is a quarterly journal published by the Virginia Library Association whose (540) 981-8666 (fax) purpose is to develop, promote, and improve library and information services and the profes- sion of librarianship in order to advance literacy and learning and to ensure access to infor- [email protected] mation in the Commonwealth of Virginia. The journal, distributed to the membership, is used as a vehicle for members to exchange information, ideas, and solutions to mutual problems in professional articles on current top- ics in the library and information field. Views expressed inVirginia Libraries are not necessarily Editor, Virginia Books endorsed by the editors or editorial board. The Virginia Library Association (VLA) holds the copyright on all articles published in Sara B. Bearss Virginia Libraries whether the articles appear in print or electronic format. Material may be Senior Editor, Dictionary of ­ reproduced for informational, educational, or recreational purposes provided the source of Virginia Biography the material is cited. The print version of Virginia Libraries is designed by Lamp-Post Publicity The Library of Virginia in Meherrin, Virginia. The electronic version of Virginia Libraries is created by Virginia Tech’s Digital Library and Archives and is available at http://scholar.lib.vt.edu/ejournals/VALib or as 800 E. Broad Street a link from the Virginia Library Association website (http://www.vla.org) and the Directory Richmond, VA 23219-8000 of Open Access Journals (http://www.doaj.org/). Virginia Libraries is indexed in Library Litera- [email protected] ture, a database produced by the H.W. Wilson Company. Items for publication and editorial inquiries should be addressed to the editors. Inquiries regarding membership, subscriptions, advertising, or claims should be directed to VLA, P.O. Box 8277, Norfolk, VA 23503-0277. All personnel happenings and announcements should On the cover: Conference attendees be sent to the VLA Newsletter, Kevin Tapp, Box 7024 Radford University, Radford, VA 24142, enjoy The Homestead in Hot Springs [email protected]. The guidelines for submissions to Virginia Libraries are found on page 7. Designed With Students in Mind

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OPENERS Literacy: The Long View

by Lyn C. A. Gardner

re the rates of reading fall- ing the profound personal insights opment in the span of human ing, or are the methods we treasure in literature. Indeed, a history; and as technology fosters of reading changing? The startlingly high percentage of films ever-faster changes in human soci- Ajury’s still out. While the NEA’s are still being adapted from nov- ety, one might expect our arts to Reading at Risk delineates a valid els and short stories — frequently fluctuate as well. The problem for cause for alarm, some have criti- without viewers even realizing the libraries, of course, is that whether cized it for failing to make adequate source. or not books should continue to allowance for the types of read- Since we have become aware of be privileged over other sources ing going on during Internet use, different learning styles, one might of information and entertain- perusal of graphic novels, and even ment, the fact is that they’re slip- gaming. Then there’s the migration ping in the polls. No matter how of fiction to other forms of media. much “new” media and technol- Audiobooks may make “reading” … the book … no longer ogy we add to aid circulation and easier by eliminating the need for draw people to the library, it’s not literacy and providing additional reigns supreme even going to alter the fact that the way color, with character voices and among avid readers people read — most notably in the narrative inflections often adding younger generations — truly seems to one’s enjoyment while enforc- as a source for either to be changing. ing the reader’s interpretation of While it’s clear that the book is the text; still, the imaginative act entertainment or not going to disappear — not yet, involved in absorbing and engag- information. at least — it’s just as clear that it no ing with the story is quite similar to longer reigns supreme even among that required by the printed word. avid readers as a source for either Many audiobook listeners still refer entertainment or information. to this act as “reading” — should even applaud the greater wealth During the recent Writers Guild of we? Learning is definitely going of learning available through this America strike, I had hoped that on, with nonfiction as well as fic- variety of media that provide audi- the paucity of television offerings tion providing the benefits we tra- tory, visual, and even tactile means would inspire many to return to ditionally expect of them; if there’s of absorbing knowledge. Yet while reading. But complaints of library less exposure to spelling and punc- many are coming to recognize the staff over television boredom did tuation, this is balanced by the cultural and educational value not seem to lead to more time to benefit of improving one’s feel for of media such as comics, games, read. The comments I heard seemed the flow of narrative through the and the Internet (none of which unfortunately typical, though spoken word. There are similar are actually “new” media at this perhaps understandable: after a non-verbal lessons to be learned point, though their growing, but long day of work often followed from other “replacement” media: still sometimes problematic, accep- by housework or childcare, many story is still at the heart of graphic tance by those in education-related didn’t have the energy to read very novels, films, television, and the fields may make them seem so), much. The anecdotal evidence sug- more elaborate role-playing com- do we really consider them to be a gested that even among library puter games, all of which offer a fair substitute for the sorts of “lit- staff, reruns and reality shows were more visual take on the construc- erary pleasure reading” that the still often preferred over reading, tion of story, but still balance NEA seeks to measure? And if not, providing light or background character development, plot, and should we? The novel in Western entertainment. (I challenge you theme while sometimes provid- literature is a fairly recent devel- to make a weekly log of your per- PAGE 4 VIRGINIA LIBRARIES JANUARY–MARCH, 2008

sonal time that details hours spent part-time jobs, other types of pro- year, I read scores of stories that watching TV, including movies fessional writing and editing, or felt ... not quite dead on the page, I and shows, and using the Internet, the earnings of other family mem- won’t go that far, but airless, some- including email, versus time spent bers. Some may hold the belief how, and self-referring[,] […] writ- reading printed literary materi- that art should exist for its own ten for editors and teachers rather als. You might be surprised at the sake; but if nothing else, payment than for readers. […] It’s tough for results.) is an indicator of the state of the writers to write (and editors to edit) There’s a lot of concern among audience in a free-market society, when faced with a shrinking audi- writers as well as libraries about showing whether the author is still ence. […] [Is the] American short the falling numbers of fiction read- connecting with readers. The abil- story well? Sorry, no, can’t say so. ers. It’s not just the increasingly ity to live by one’s art also means Current condition stable, but apt high price of paper that has book that the artist has the best oppor- to deteriorate in the years ahead.”3 sales and readership in a continu- tunity to focus intensely and delve King urges people to reinvigorate ing downward spiral; the interests deeply into that art. Without this their love for the short story by of the audience, even avid readers, ability, less fiction — and possibly reading some of the best and most have spread out, when they haven’t passionate tales to be found in the changed altogether. In the second field, collected in this anthology. I introduction to Killer Year, M. J. agree: yet our three copies, housed Rose says, “With margins low, dis- … for the most part, at separate branch libraries, have tribution costs rocketing, limited I could have completed circulated a grand total of seven- or no marketing budgets for all but teen times since being added to the the top 15 percent of titles, and lit- my studies without collection in August 2007. tle major media interest in all but Perhaps as both a writer and the biggest authors, book sales drop ever setting foot in a a librarian, I’m more depressed a little more every year and fewer physical library. about this situation than I should and fewer authors can live off their be. But I have to wonder: as printed fiction efforts. […] [I]f you look books diminish in importance, at the statistics, the average ‘avid’ will libraries continue to be neces- reader only buys 2.5 books a year fiction of lesser quality — will be sary? While studying for my MLIS … [Ours is] an industry losing read- produced for us to enjoy. online through Florida State Uni- ers to video games, movies, digital Story with a capital S has been versity, I had remote access to the cable, blogs, and a creeping apathy with humanity from the begin- library’s ample collection of elec- about books.”1 A recent interview ning, and will doubtless survive tronic journals, electronic books, of readers by the Mystery Writers in one form or another. But some- and e-reserves. Though I occasion- of America for their “Murder Must time in the coming decades, the ally had recourse to more local Air” program revealed that reading novel might find itself relegated university libraries, for the most one to four books a month was still to academia and amateurs, much part, I could have completed my considered a respectable number.2 as poetry increasingly was by the studies without ever setting foot Perhaps so, what with work com- final decades of the twentieth cen- in a physical library. For all I knew, mitments and family responsibili- tury. Indeed, the short story may FSU’s library could have been a sin- ties. But during that same month, have already moved a long way gle, part-time librarian in a closet how many television shows and toward this state. In “What Ails with a server and a budget for elec- movies have those readers con- the Short Story,” Stephen King tronic publications. If the library’s sumed? Those who practice their reflects on his experiences as edi- chief use in many communities is art in the printed word are finding tor of the latest Best American Short now to provide computer access an ever-shrinking audience that Stories, pondering “What happens and community space, the same not only denies them their pur- when [a writer] […] realizes that purpose could be served by city- pose (communicating their art to his or her audience is shrinking run Internet cafes and meeting others), but threatens to eliminate almost daily? […] [W]riters write rooms. Though we know how valu- their very ability to pursue their for whatever audience is left. In able a skilled reference librarian’s calling. Fewer fiction writers than too many cases, that audience hap- input can be, how many patrons ever can support themselves solely pens to consist of other writers and are bothering to ask, what with the through their craft in the United would-be writers who are reading ready availability of information States; often, they rely on income […] not to be entertained but to online? And how many librarians, from other full-time careers or get an idea of what sells [...]. Last faced with computer sign-ups and JANUARY–MARCH, 2008 VIRGINIA LIBRARIES PAGE 5

printer troubles, have the time to a program, one source for contact- hot dog cart and laptop and taking answer? ing authors is the database hosted the library on the road to a student Leaving aside the questions of by the Virginia Commission for the center across campus, and even tak- what constitutes “reading,” the Arts (http://www.arts.state.va.us/ ing the library to sea. In “Faculty­- comparative value of media types, directories/writers/search.asp). You Librarian Collaborations Facilitate and the changing definition of the might attend local literary festivals Information Literacy Competence library itself, I think we need to to find potential authors; the Vir- in the Large Classroom Setting” consider strongly whether “liter- ginia Literary Awards Celebration (page 37), Michelle L. Young ary pleasure reading” is something at the Library of Virginia offers the describes a means of improving that libraries should actively strive opportunity to meet some of the both the library’s relevance and to save. I’m not advocating down- finest (http://www.lva.lib.va.us/ the students’ skills in using it. In playing the importance or rel- whatwedo/awards/). The Library “A Partnership between a Pub- evance of other media. Rather, I’m of Virginia also offers Researching lic High School’s Health Sciences suggesting that by getting people Virginia Authors (www.lva.lib.va.us/ Academy and an Academic Health excited about reading again, we’ll whatwehave/notes/VaAuthorsBib. Sciences Library” (page 40), Ruth not only be helping the authors Smith, Brittany Horn, and Shelley who create the content we exist to Chitwood document a means by provide, but also directly increas- which career-minded high school ing our relevance to our communi- … the physical presence students became involved with ties. Let’s face it: one of the reasons of a live author a library highly relevant to their public library visitation is fall- interests. These articles suggest ing off is that when people want still has significant that libraries can improve their new entertainment — movies, TV visibility by finding places where shows, music, the Internet, video drawing power. people congregate and catering to games, comics — the library is not their interests and location. I’d also the first place they think about as a recommend finding those who are source. Patrons who know do come pdf), which should prove useful passionate about fictional worlds around: but a lot of them found out not only for finding the names of and making use of their energy. because they came here for books current Virginia authors, but orga- Libraries could benefit by sponsor- in the first place. Sure, we can nizing activities that focus on Vir- ing appropriately themed booths spread the word — and we have. ginia writers both past and present. at local conventions for mystery or The library is changing, there’s Another source for information science fiction fans or for enthusi- no doubt about that. But in this about literary events and how to asts of boating or history; in addi- changing world, I still believe that host them is the Virginia Center tion to spreading the word about a greater emphasis on reaching out for the Book (http://www.virginia the library, staff may find that with literary programs can help to humanities.org/bookcenter/). attendees who are local residents bolster library visitation. Musicians The articles and conference ses- will check material out on the have pointed the way: with fall- sions you’ll encounter in this issue spot. Further, libraries could agree ing record sales, many musicians of Virginia Libraries offer some food to host or sponsor such conven- these days rely on giving concerts for thought. One way of increas- tions themselves. Then there are as a means to survive. Even when ing the library’s presence caters the perennial library favorites like people borrow more albums than to the modern thirst for conve- reading groups and reader’s advi- they buy, the energy and wonder nience, presence, and immediacy: sory programs; in “New Trends in of a live performance continues to take the library to the people. In Fiction” (VLA conference session, attract a paying audience. While “Las Vegas Lessons” (VLA confer- page 35), Neil Hollands, Penelope authors might not be as flashy, the ence session, page 36), Barbie Selby Hamblin, and Jessica Zellers offer physical presence of a live author describes innovative marketing several suggestions about exciting still has significant drawing power. tools for capturing the fleeting new genres that are drawing a lot Programs that involve authors attention of communities bom- of readers. reading and discussing their work, barded by options, as well as sev- But promoting reading is also connecting with their audience, eral ways in which libraries visit about literacy, not just attracting and personally signing books after- their patrons — joining classrooms the literate. There’s another means ward can help both the author and to teach information literacy, by which to gain more readers: the library that hosts them. If your bringing books to the lunchroom make sure more of the populace is library is interested in offering such for students to check out, buying a equipped with the skills and inter- PAGE 6 VIRGINIA LIBRARIES JANUARY–MARCH, 2008

est they need in order to engage in his interview with Lydia Wil- come at any time; however, the with books. Literacy for all ages liams, “I think people who live in deadline for the themed issue is has long been a concern of librar- better areas of the country with August 1 (for the October/Novem- ies, who offer both children’s and a population of better-educated ber/December issue). As we hope adult learning and ESL programs. citizens would be stunned to learn this theme will generate a lot of In “Changing Lives through Litera- that there are many states where interest, we are planning to pub- ture” (VLA conference session, page about half of the population live in lish a double issue to allow space 27), Katherine Strotman shows us homes where there are no books. for additional content. The themed how to take this to a meaningful And there are not just a few states issue will thus appear as Vol. 54, new level with a program that helps with this problem, but many.” If No. 3 & 4. We are still seeking gen- to rehabilitate frequent offenders your library does not already have eral articles and interviews for Vol. by inspiring a love for reading. In an adult literacy program in place, 54, No. 2; the extended deadline is both his keynote speech (“Open- consider visiting the National Insti- May 1. ing Session,” VLA conference cov- Be sure to query first with your erage, page 18) and his interview ideas or with the name of a pro- with VLA’s Lydia Williams (page spective interview candidate. 11), David Baldacci stresses the … we plan to devote While we welcome all submissions, importance of helping our commu- a special issue of please remember that acceptance nities by increasing adult literacy, depends upon the full article and a cause he promotes through his Virginia Libraries to the is not guaranteed. Full submission Wish You Well Foundation (http:// guidelines can be found on page www.wishyouwellfoundation­. theme of literacy 7. (Please note our new deadlines.) org/). Baldacci’s position as a best- and pleasure reading. Thanks in advance for your inter- selling author gives him not only est and support. a stake but also a voice in combat- ing a problem that affects us all. As described in the article “Illit- tute for Literacy (http://www.nifl. Notes eracy in the Workplace” in the gov/) for more information about Encyclopedia of Business, functional the problem and how to combat it. 1. Killer Year, M. J. Rose, “The illiteracy — reading below the In light of all this, we plan to Class of Co-opetition,” in Killer sixth-grade level — not only affects devote a special issue of Virginia Year (New York: St. Martin’s Mino- workplace safety and productivity Libraries to the theme of literacy taur, 2008), xv–xvii. but also eliminates many poten- and pleasure reading. We want to 2. L. C. Hayden, interview with tial pleasure-readers. The article get communities excited about five readers, Murder Must Air, Mys- asserts that “According to a United libraries by reawakening the love tery Writers of America, August 14, Nations survey of worldwide adult of books of all types and genres. To 20 07. literacy, of the 158 participating that end, we’d love to see articles 3. Stephen King, “What Ails nations, the United States ranks about some of the many liter- the Short Story?,” New York Times 49th. […] Since a high school level ary events and programs being Sunday Book Review, September of literacy is usually necessary in sponsored by libraries, as well as 30, 2007, http://www.nytimes. order to read newspapers and mag- interviews with Virginia authors. com/2007/09/30/books/review/ azines fluently, some experts insist The partnerships between authors King2-t.html. that anyone who reads and writes and libraries continue to be fruit- 4. “Illiteracy in the Work- below secondary school level is ful, with benefits for libraries, the place,” Encyclopedia of Business, functionally illiterate. … [A]s many communities they serve, and the 2nd ed. ([Farmington Hills, MI as 72 million adults are affected authors themselves. Please help us ?]: Thomson Gale, 2006), http:// […]. Perhaps most alarming is celebrate and encourage our liter- www.referenceforbusiness.com/­ the fact that the highest levels of ary heritage by sharing your expe- encyclopedia/Gov-Inc/Illiteracy- functional illiteracy can be found riences and ideas, and introducing in-the-Workplace.html. VL among the young, specifically in us all to more Virginia authors the eighteen- to thirty-year-old age through insightful interviews. bracket.”4 As David Baldacci says Articles and interviews are wel- JANUARY–MARCH, 2008 VIRGINIA LIBRARIES PAGE 7

For the Love of Reading: Call for Submissions to Virginia Libraries

Virginia Libraries is pleased to devote a special issue however, the deadline for the themed issue is August to the theme of literacy and reading for the fun of it. 1 (for the October/November/December issue). As we We want to help get communities excited about our hope this theme will generate a lot of interest, we are libraries by reawakening the love of books of all types planning to publish a double issue to allow space for and genres. To that end, we’d love to see articles about additional content. The themed issue will thus appear some of the many literary events and programs being as Vol. 54, No. 3 & 4. We are still seeking general arti- sponsored by libraries, as well as interviews with cles and interviews for Vol. 54, No. 2; the extended Virginia authors. The partnerships between authors deadline is May 1. and libraries continue to be fruitful, with benefits for Be sure to query first with your ideas or with the libraries, the communities they serve, and the authors name of a prospective interview candidate. While we themselves. Please help us celebrate and encourage welcome all submissions, please remember that accep- our literary heritage by sharing your experiences and tance depends upon the full article and is not guaran- ideas, and introducing us all to more Virginia authors teed. Full submission guidelines can be found below. through insightful interviews. (Please note our new deadlines.) Thanks in advance Articles and interviews are welcome at any time; for your interest and support.

Guidelines for Submissions to Virginia Libraries

1. Virginia Libraries seeks to publish articles and 6. Illustrations are encouraged and should be submit- reviews of interest to the library community in ted whenever appropriate to accompany a manu- Virginia. Articles reporting research, library pro- script. Hard copy illustrations will be returned if grams and events, and opinion pieces are all con- requested in advance. Digital images should have a sidered for publication. Queries are encouraged. resolution of at least 300 dpi. Authors are respon- Brief announcements and press releases should be sible for securing legal permission to publish pho- directed to the VLA Newsletter. tographs and other illustrations.

2. Please submit manuscripts via email as attach- 7. Each contributor should provide a brief sketch of ments in Microsoft Word, rich text, or plain text professional accomplishments of no more than format. Articles should be double-spaced with any fifty words that includes current title, affiliation, bibliographic notes occurring at the end of the and email address. Unless specified otherwise, this article. Please avoid using the automatic note cre- information will be shared with readers of Virginia ation function provided by some word processing Libraries. Physical addresses should also be pro- programs. vided for the mailing of contributor’s copies.

3. Articles in Virginia Libraries conform to the latest 8. Articles should generally fall within the range of edition of the Chicago Manual of Style and Web- 750-3,000 words. Please query the editors before ster’s Third New International Dictionary, Unabridged. submitting any work of greater length. Accepted articles are subject to editing for style and clarity. Authors will be consulted on points of fact. 9. Email manuscripts and queries to Cy Dillon, ­cdillon @ferrum.edu, and Lyn C. A. Gardner, cgardner@ 4. All articles submitted for consideration are hampton.gov. Please be sure to copy both editors. reviewed by the editors and may be refereed by the editorial board. Articles that are not selected for 10. Virginia Libraries is published quarterly. The dead- publication will be returned within three months. lines for submission are: November 1 for Number 1, January/February/March; February 1 for Num- 5. VLA holds the copyright on all articles published ber 2, April/May/June; May 1 for Number 3, July/ in Virginia Libraries. Contributors of articles receive August/September; and August 1 for Number 4, two copies of the issue in which their work appears. October/November/December. The Freedom to Read Foundation is the only organization whose main purpose is to defend through the courts the right to access information in libraries. Whether you are a librarian or library supporter, and you value the access libraries provide for everyone in the community, you can’t afford not to be a member of the Freedom to Read Foundation.

Join today and start receiving all the benefits of membership, including the quarterly newsletter. Membership starts at $35 for individuals and $100 for libraries and other organizations. Freedom to Read Foundation www.ftrf.org JANUARY–MARCH, 2008 VIRGINIA LIBRARIES PAGE 9

President’s Column

by Donna Cote

new year offers a clean implementing online membership slate, and it’s with great renewal. Past President Pat Howe enthusiasm that I take will serve as the content manager upA my pen (okay, my keyboard) for the website this year and has and write about what the coming kindly agreed to chair an ad hoc year holds for VLA. Below you’ll committee that will address these find the top issues that the Execu- enhancements. tive Committee and I considered at As we look at ways to promote the January/February meeting of the interactivity of the site, we wel- the VLA Council. come your suggestions.

Advocacy If your actions inspire Advocacy for library support pro- vides opportunities for all of us others to dream more, network with peers, gain an inside to get involved. We’re all citizens learn more, do more, look into ALA structure, and have with elected officials who are and become more, an opportunity to serve the profes- potential library supporters; we sion in a leadership capacity. shouldn’t simply assume that they you are a leader. We want very much to include understand what a priority we are JOHN QUINCY ADAMS young people in the activities of for their constituents. We need to our association through mentoring tell them that we speak on behalf and appointment to committees. of the 4.2 million Virginians who If you’re new to the profession and Succession and Mentoring hold library cards. want to be involved in VLA, we’ll VLA is committed to provid- We must encourage and develop find a place for you. Let us hear ing leadership for legislative and the next generation of librarians from you about what you want to advocacy activities that support in our libraries, as well as provide see VLA offer for your growth. libraries and library staff in the meaningful opportunities for con- Those of us who have been commonwealth. To that end, tinuing education and leadership around for a while have much to we will support the work of the within our state association. We offer and should make the oppor- Legislative Committee, the 2008 applaud the wonderful initiative tunity to use these talents to help Legislative Agenda, and National shown by those who have estab- develop the young people in our Legislative Day. (Find details at the lished VLA’s Virginia Leadership libraries and in our association. VLA website: www.vla.org.) These Development Forum for middle efforts are especially important in managers. Archives a year when state government is In addition, Virginia has been feeling the effects of a downturn honored to have three very capable As we dedicate our energies to in the economy. young professionals chosen for present and future challenges, we ALA’s Emerging Leaders program: have also pledged to honor our Renée Di Pilato, Alexandria Public past. I will be appointing an ad Online Presence Library; Mary Hanlin, Tidewater hoc committee this year to develop The VLA website is an invaluable Community College; and Sally guidelines and procedures for iden- resource for the membership. In Ma, Jefferson-Madison Regional tifying and preserving the associa- the coming year we plan to make Library. The Emerging Leaders pro- tion’s history. the site even more convenient by gram enables newer librarians from In addition to documents such implementing online voting, post- across the country to participate as minutes, publications, and press ing our membership directory, and in problem-solving workgroups, releases, our history has been PAGE 10 VIRGINIA LIBRARIES JANUARY–MARCH, 2008

recorded for many years by pho- ent that we make the future hap- tographer Pierre Courtois from At most living memory pen. We are energized by our belief the Library of Virginia. Many of endures for a hundred years that libraries make a difference in us remember enjoying the VLA people’s lives. Daily, we witness slide show at the association’s hun- or so. Thereafter even the outcomes and hear stories about dredth anniversary in 2005 that barest outline of the past the impact that libraries have. We included some of these photos. is forgotten, unless it is are in a position to realize what a Making them digitally accessible difference we make. We must tell to our members will not just pre- recorded in writing. these stories to those who fund us. serve our heritage, but also build We must utilize energy, creativity, JOHN MORRIS, LONDINIUM: community. LONDON IN THE ROMAN EMPIRE and intellect to insure that we are As I look to the coming year, provided the support to fulfill our I’m reminded that it is through  vital mission. VL sustained hard work in the pres- Never, never, never give up.

SIR WINSTON CHURCHILL

SWING Benefits: Collective buying power for library materials Newsletters Library legislative lobby Continuing education opportunities Scholarship opportunities

SWING’s service area primarily encompasses Virginia, North Carolina and Tennessee, but all libraries are welcome. Membership is $150 annually.

For information contact: Cathy Hanshew, SWING Business Manager 511 Lark Dr. Atkins VA 24311 276.783.5342; [email protected] www.swinglibrary.org

Serving libraries since 1993 JANUARY–MARCH, 2008 VIRGINIA LIBRARIES PAGE 11

An Interview with Virginia Author Extraordinaire David Baldacci

by Lydia Williams

avid Baldacci is a what a legacy and heritage Vir- Virginia author who ginia has and how many won- possesses a talent derful writers are included in Dfor writing and an enthusiasm this heritage. It is a humbling for the written word that make feeling, and it is just nice to be him extraordinary in his field. mentioned in the same breath His love for writing, his passion with writers like these. for creating the ultimate in char- acters and plots, and his desire Would you please talk to give his readers more than VL about what influenced you they bargained for have made to begin writing? him an international best-­selling I am a writer because I author with fourteen novels DB began as a reader. My and two children’s books to his parents took us to the public credit. His most recent publica- library. It was a ritual for my tion, Stone Cold, is the third brother, my sister, and me to book in the Camel Club series. visit the library every weekend. His other publications include We had a secret arrangement Absolute Power, Total Con- with the librarian, who would trol, The Winner, The Simple let us check out as many books Truth, Saving Faith, Wish You as we wanted because we read so Well, Last Man Standing, The much and so quickly. We would Christmas Train, Split Second, take stacks of books home, read Hour Game, The Camel Club, them, and come back the next The Collectors, and Simple Genius. weekend for more. It was just the Titles in his young readers series are We had a secret feeling of seeing a brand new world Freddy and the French Fries: Fries without having to leave Richmond Alive! and Freddy and the French arrangement with that kept me going back for more. Fries: The Adventures of Silas Fin- the librarian…. I could open a book and be trans- klebean. Baldacci recently hosted an ported to another time and place. episode of Murder by the Book that The power of the words would mes- aired on Court TV in November. He merize me. I wanted to write books and his wife are cofounders of the Sharyn McCrumb. How does it feel that would impact other people in Wish You Well Foundation, a non- to be a part of Virginia’s rich heri- this same way. I would read a book profit organization with a mission to tage of talented writers? and think how much I would like support literacy across America. It is a great feeling. I first to write a book that would capture DB thought about this when I vis- my readers’ imaginations and draw Virginia has been home to ited the Virginia Authors Room at them into a different world. I set VL so many wonderful writers, the Library of Virginia. And obvi- including yesterday’s Thomas Nel- ously, I have read a lot of the Vir- son Page, Ellen Glasgow, and James ginia writers’ works. Lydia Williams is the archives and Branch Cabell, and today’s Rita When you see their works col- records manager at Greenwood Library Mae Dove, Patricia Cornwell, and lected in one place, you realize at Longwood University. PAGE 12 VIRGINIA LIBRARIES JANUARY–MARCH, 2008

out to learn all the things you need got cards back from editors saying what you are interested in know- to know as a writer — whether it is that what I had submitted was not ing about, and then go and learn a about narrative, character devel- right for their publication, but they lot about it. That is what I tend to opment, dialogue, or just putting liked my writing and asked that I do, and that is what motivates me. words together. I didn’t start out send them something else. I love It has to be more than just trying by writing stories. I began by writ- writing so much that this was all to sell books. I have sold enough ing thousands of pages of mate- the encouragement I needed: just a books; now it has to be about rial — pages of dialogue, descrip- little line here or there. So for peo- what sort of mark I want to leave tions of things I would see out ple who get frustrated when their behind and what I want my books in the world, attempts to create work is rejected, I tell them that it to accomplish. characters in a way that captured is not going to happen fast, and it one’s attention and seemed inter- shouldn’t. Part of learning how to You are a master at taking esting — just working to build a become a writer is learning how VL words and crafting them into craft. Because that’s what it really to live and experience life. The stories that we all love to read. How is — writing is a craft. things I wrote when I was seven- do you begin the process of writing teen weren’t very good; the things a story that evolves into a novel? Don’t you think that success- Every writer approaches the VL ful writers possess the gift of DB writing process in a differ- telling stories that people love to ent way. When I get an idea I let it read? So the old adage to germinate for a while. When I was My mom will tell you that write what you know younger I would have an idea for a DB I was pretty good at telling story and then rush to turn it into yarns. I usually told a lot of tall is not always true. a novel or screenplay. But then I tales, mostly to get myself out of would realize halfway down the trouble. It’s great to have ideas, road that it didn’t fit that genre at and you do need a vivid imagina- all. So I would have to throw the tion; but to execute upon all that I wrote when I was twenty-seven pages away and start all over again. involves a lot of sweat equity. And were better, and the things I am Now when I think I have an idea you have to really love doing it, writing now are, hopefully, better that might make a good novel, I because it is a very frustrating pro- than that. It is all part of knowing let the idea germinate in my mind fession. how to put words together and how for a while to see if it really has to take readers on an adventure, the substance it needs to justify I know that submitting the knowing they are going to follow writing a four-hundred-page book VL very first manuscript to a pub- you all the way through the story. about it. After a month I might lisher can be an agonizing experi- decide that the idea is much better ence. Would you share what you I realize that writing is some- suited to a screenplay, novella, or experienced with your first sub- VL thing you love to do, but we all short story. So I let the idea rumi- mission? know it takes a great deal of hard nate in my head, and I think about The first short stories that I work, time, and patience. So, con- it, allowing the idea to develop. I DB sent out were not published. sidering the task before you, what go through the process of thinking Unfortunately, there isn’t much of motivates you to take on the next of the potential for the story — who a market for short stories. There are project? the main characters will be, how very few places you can send them That is a great question. I have many subplots can be spun off for publication. I sent my first sto- DB to really be interested in the from the main plot, what charac- ries to Story Magazine and some subject matter before I begin a new ters will inhabit the periphery of regional publications. I even sent project. My mind has to really want the story, who will carry the nar- them to Playboy Magazine because to tell the story; otherwise, I don’t rative drive of the story, where do they do publish good fiction. I want to devote my time to it. Life I want to set it, what is the battle received rejections from all of them. is just too short. So I will look at plan for the research I will need to I would receive printed cards that an idea or question out in the real do — so there will be a real veneer read, “We hope your work will find world that intrigues me — one that of authority to the novel and read- a place somewhere, but rest assured I may not know a lot about — and ers will think, “This guy knows it will never be here,” and “We are then I begin the research process. what he’s talking about.” If you sorry we can’t take this, but we So the old adage to write what you do the research, people will trust only represent talent.” Sometimes I know is not always true. I say write you. Readers will trust you if the JANUARY–MARCH, 2008 VIRGINIA LIBRARIES PAGE 13

information sounds right and it tell my reader what the character ing a book like Wish You Well, the sounds like you know what you’re is supposed to be like. I prefer to characters stay with you. I lived talking about. Then the reader will let the readers see or imagine this with the souls of those characters be much more apt to say, “I am for themselves. I could say, “This long after the book was completed. going to put myself in this person’s Jackson is an evil mastermind who It was just one of those things for hands for the whole story.” Read- thinks he’s ahead of everyone,” but me where they seemed so real that ers can tell when writers haven’t I would prefer to show you how I wanted to talk with them. They done their research and when they he’s a mastermind, how the char- represented a lot of my heart and have fudged the stuff. To me this is acter is smarter than everyone else soul. The characters I create do stay a real turnoff, because I know that and can keep a step ahead of every- with me. research makes a story better. one else; and I do that through interactions with other characters Of all the characters you have The novels you write are filled within the plot. I prefer to build VL created for all of your novels, VL not only with lots of action, the character through interactions which one is your favorite? but also with complex characters and dialogue with other charac- I guess I would have to split who each have their own unique ters. If you want people to appear DB them out between the thrill- thoughts, motives, emotions, and ers and non-thrillers. On the reactions to all they encounter thriller side, I would have to throughout the story. How are choose Oliver Stone, who heads you able to bring each one of your You want to entice, up the Camel Club. He is such an characters to life so that they are you want to seduce, and interesting character. I have never both unique and believable? How been able to develop a character do you create a character? you want to tempt. like him before, nor had the luxury If you look at novels, a char- of developing a character through DB acter is a million little details a series of three books. I can tell cobbled together, and the quality you — from A to Z — what makes of your character depends on how smart, you show them doing smart this man tick. On the non-thriller good your glue is or on how well things and saying smart things side, Diamond Skinner from Wish you put these details together. I or outwitting other characters in You Well is my favorite. He repre- like to build a character slowly the novel. That’s the best way to sented wonderful things, and he and not reveal everything at once. develop a character, because then has always stuck with me. I am not My sister was a journalist for years the reader will come to know the sure I could ever do a Diamond and began writing novels later in character by using his or her own Skinner again. her career. She said that the hard- powers of reasoning. est task for her was to overcome The Christmas Train is so dif- her training to get all the facts out Do you get emotionally VL ferent from your other novels, as quickly as possible. As a fiction VL involved with your characters, because you leave the world of bad writer, this is the last thing you or are you able to get the charac- guy versus good guy and create a want to do. You want to entice, ters out of your thoughts when you totally different type of story. What you want to seduce, and you want take a break from writing? inspired you to write this story? to tempt. Then you turn the tap off I really do inhabit the charac- It was happenstance, really. and let the reader think about it for DB ters. Particularly in reoccur- DB I was finishing the book a little while. You go along with the ring characters such as the ones Last Man Standing, which was a story for a while before you turn in the Camel Club series. I like to testosterone­-driven, high-­powered, the tap back on and let them have think that I grow with these char- gadget- and hardware-filled novel a few more drops of the character’s acters as they are evolving. As they about the FBI’s hostage rescue blood. I like to begin by providing evolve from book to book, I like team. I needed three days by a little of the character’s physical to think that I am evolving as a myself with no interruptions to description to give the reader a tag writer. It is a joy to have the luxury finish this novel. I was scheduled to attach to the character — is the of writing character arcs in a series to give a speech for the California character young, old, strong, bril- of books. It gives the writer a lot of State Bar in just a few days. Nor- liant, short, tall, whatever — and space and latitude to build those mally I would just fly to L.A., give then begin to reveal the character characters, which allows them the speech, and fly back home, through some interactions with to evolve into ones that are more but train travel seemed like a bet- other characters. I don’t want to complex and interesting. In writ- ter option. I knew that Amtrak PAGE 14 VIRGINIA LIBRARIES JANUARY–MARCH, 2008

had two trains that went across oldest sister was twenty-three Do you think you will ever the county. You can travel from years old when she was born. My VL write a sequel to Wish You Washington, D.C., to Chicago on grandmother had my mother later Well? the Capitol Limited, and then you in life — particularly for that era, If I could justify bringing can take the Southwest Chief from when children were not born in DB this type of story and these Chicago to Los Angeles, which is hospitals, but were delivered by a characters back, yes, I would. But a three-day trip. This was perfect. midwife in one’s home. My grand- I don’t want to do it just because So I get on the train, enter my little mother was forty-three when she it was a very popular story and a compartment, and begin hammer- had my mom. My mother and her sequel would do well. I don’t want ing out the end of Last Man Stand- next-youngest sister were often left to bring it back and throw the ing. But you can’t write twenty-four alone in the mountains (they were same stuff back out there just to hours a day, so you get up, go eat only six and seven years of age) sell books. I would love to write a meals, and visit the observation because of issues my grandparents sequel, and I hope that sometime car. People on trains will talk to had to deal with. My mom didn’t in my career I will go back to that you all the time. It is not like being talk about this much, nor did my type of storytelling. on a plane where people have their iPods or their headphones on and What role, if any, have librar- look at you as if they dare you to VL ies played in helping you with speak to them. So you don’t talk to People on trains will your research? people on planes. That is just the talk to you all the time. Libraries have helped enor- way travel on a plane is, but on a DB mously. I spend a lot of time train it is a whole different world. It is not like being in libraries. When I wrote The Col- People want to talk. Most of what lectors, which was set in the Library they say is all lies, tall tales, or on a plane …. of Congress, I spent a great deal of yarns, but it is fascinating stuff. So, time there. They gave me access to by the time I got to Los Angeles, I many of their archival and special had about fifty pages of notes I had grandmother, who lived with us collections materials. The librar- taken during the three-day train the last ten years of her life. But ians, archivists, and conservators trip. When I was flying back home, there was a lot of emotional dif- were wonderful. I spent a great deal I was thinking about what I wanted ficulty for them. If my mom had of time looking through the archi- to do for my next novel. I knew I to be candid about it, she would val collections, and I was allowed wanted to write a book that cen- probably say the tougher memories to view books housed in the rare tered around characters traveling outweigh the more pleasant mem- book vault. You can’t Google across country on a train. I decided ories, and this was a revelation for everything. Usually you have to to set it during the Christmas sea- me. I know it was a hard life. I went take what you find on Google with son — the season of redemption, of back to the homeplace for the first a grain of salt, because you don’t a second chance, the beginning of time when I was seven or eight. know who has posted the infor- a new year — and to make it sort of Just getting there is a demanding mation. When I wrote Wish You a romantic, screwball comedy with process — it’s a long drive through Well, I spent a great deal of time in some heart and soul added in. I the mountains, and then you have the archival section at the Library thought this would be a great story, to stop the car and walk in the rest of Virginia reading WPA reports and so this is how the idea for The of the way because there were no from the Depression era and hand- Christmas Train developed. roads into the farm. I know how written notes, letters, and diaries difficult it must have been for her, written by people who lived in In the information on the especially being left alone in such the mountains at that time. This VL dust jacket of Wish You Well, a harsh and lonely environment. allowed me to get into their hearts you refer to this as being the story This wasn’t what I was expecting and souls in order to learn what of your maternal grandmother’s to learn about my mother’s child- their views were regarding life in experiences. What was the most hood. But I can also see how my the mountains at that time. It was interesting thing you learned about mother survived this, because she essential for me to have access to your family while working on this is a very strong woman. Her spirit all the information the Library of project? is indomitable, and now I can see Virginia has in its collection. I feel My mother had a rough time why she is such a strong person. like libraries are very much the DB in the mountains. She was partners of novelists. the youngest of ten children. Her JANUARY–MARCH, 2008 VIRGINIA LIBRARIES PAGE 15

You have written two books everyone in my life know this won- villains have these nuances. What VL for young readers. What moti- derful news. It was stunning, but makes you want to keep watching vated you to begin writing books at the same time I also felt some Hannibal Lecter, who eats people? for children? trepidation. I wondered how they Well, there is more to it than that. When my children were would revise the story and how We want to know what has caused DB younger, I started telling them well the story would evolve into a him to become this kind of a char- bedtime stories about Freddy the film. At some point, you just have acter. This desire to know is what French Fry. It just popped into to let it go and realize they know draws you to them. I like creating my head one night, and every what they’re doing. You just need characters that have complexity. In night after that I would tell them to come to the realization that my world, everyone is gray; no one more stories about Freddy. I even filmmaking is just a different way is black and white. You can find recorded a story for them when I of telling a story. evil where you didn’t think you needed to be away. It was a funny would find evil, and you can find Freddy story that they could listen Your latest book, Stone Cold, good where you were absolutely to while I was gone. When my son VL will be released November 6, certain you would find no good was in the first grade, my wife had at all. For me, that is what makes the idea of doing an auction book a good character, and that is the to raise money for the school. I kind of character you will find in read the Freddy story to a group I spent about $500 Stone Cold. of first graders; they each received on the rail phoning a page from the manuscript, and I read on your website that you they each did an illustration based everyone I had ever VL are now involved in a project on their reading of that page and for television. Could you share what they thought the illustra- met in my life. details about this project and what tion should look like. We had the role you will play? book published, just like a real Court TV has a second season book, and auctioned it off. This is 2007. Can you share some details DB of a series called “Murder by how the Freddy and the French Fries about this novel? the Book,” and they have asked series began. Subsequently, it was My last book, The Collectors, best-selling, mystery/thriller/crime published for real by Little, Brown. DB ended with a big cliff-hanger. writers to host episodes. You can I did a couple of those, and it was In my newest book, Stone Cold, the pick what you want the episode a lot of fun. It’s all about making mystery is resolved. The main plot you will be hosting to be about. I children readers at an early age. If revolves around Oliver Stone — his picked the Georgetown Starbucks they don’t read books in these early past, present, and future. His past Murders, which took place about years, they probably won’t read has finally come back to haunt ten years ago in Washington, D.C. books when they become adults, him, and maybe to destroy him. I Georgetown is a posh area in D.C. so this is important. like taking on challenges. I don’t where crime is a rarity. It is where like writing books in the same way Supreme Court justices and own- We get stars in our eyes when everyone else writes them. If you ers of the Washington Post live. VL we think about Hollywood and look at most books that deal with But three people were slain in rubbing elbows with movie stars. the CIA, the thriller books are all this area, and it didn’t appear that What were your first thoughts written one way — the good guys these incidents involved robbery. when your received word that are all good, and the bad guys are What makes this interesting is that Absolute Power was to become a all bad. There is no complexity in the woman who was gunned down major motion picture? these characters. Their motives are had just taken a job at the White I was on a train coming back crystal clear. The outcome is always House as an intern with Monica DB from New York City when I the same — the good guys vanquish Lewinsky. Because it was during received the phone call. I spent the bad guys. Usually they are just the Monica Lewinsky scandal, all about $500 on the rail phoning mowed down in a Hollywood type the conspiracy theorists thought everyone I had ever met in my life. of scene. Lots of people can write the murder might be tied to the On the same day that I received that, but for me it’s all about the White House. But it turned out to word that Absolute Power would nuances of the characters and what be more than that. The producers become a motion picture, I also makes the good guys also bad guys. went back and interviewed every- learned that Clint Eastwood would Is there a glimmer of the positive in body involved in the investigation: star in the movie. I wanted to let the bad guys? The greatest screen the FBI, the homicide detectives, PAGE 16 VIRGINIA LIBRARIES JANUARY–MARCH, 2008

family members. During the show, I am very interested in literacy, children of all ages, but the bulk they take you to the scene of the because that is what I do — I write of what we do is for adults. There crime. It’s an hour-long show, and books and people read them. When are a lot of programs out there for throughout the episode I make you travel across the country and K-12, but there are virtually none twelve appearances. I come on are involved in lots of events, you for adult literacy. So we focus on periodically and give my take on begin to realize what a significant the programs that help adults learn what is going on with the case: need there is in our country for to read. We also have the Feeding my feel for what the city was going people who can’t read. We founded the Body & Mind Program, where through, my opinion on how the the Wish You Well Foundation to we partner with America’s Second police were handling the case, my help alleviate the problem of illiter- Harvest and many of our nation’s thoughts on how the crime might acy in the United States. There are food banks. We collect new and be solved, and my take on the used books during book signings, criminal behind it all. My office pay to have them shipped to food was turned into a movie studio for banks, and people who come in for a day. A big white wall was built … people who come food can also pick up books. We to enclose one room, and they put in for food can also have gotten lots of other writers, in railroad tracks with a dolly for publishers, and corporate spon- moving the camera up and down pick up books. sors involved. We hope ALA will the room. It was just a lot of fun. get involved and provide collec- You hit your marks, say your lines, tion centers for books. Our goal and ad-lib a little. You write differ- is to prevent books from being ent dialogue on the fly because you a lot of great programs out there to thrown away or destroyed. The think something sounds better. It help people learn how to read, but food banks’ response to us has was a nice collaborative process, they are woefully underfunded and been overwhelming. Nothing bad and I enjoyed it. My episode will understaffed for a variety of rea- ever happens from having a book be aired on November 12 at 10:00 sons. So what we do with the Wish in a home. I think people who live p.m. You Well Foundation is to fund in better areas of the country with programs with a focus on literacy. a population of better-educated Thank you for all that you do to We have a board of directors; we citizens would be stunned to learn VL help others. Could you please meet quarterly; we get hundreds that there are many states where talk about the foundation that you of applications in every quarter; about half of the population live in and your wife founded — the Wish we go through them methodically; homes where there are no books. You Well Foundation? and we fund the ones that really And there are not just a few states Throughout the years we have fit our mission. We have funded with this problem, but many. What DB given a lot of support to many literacy programs in twenty-one we are trying to do with these pro- different charities. But obviously states to help adults, teens, and grams is wipe out illiteracy. VL

WISH YOU WELL Foundation Supporting family literacy in the United States by fostering and promoting the development and expansion of new and existing literacy and educational programs. www.wishyouwellfoundation.org JANUARY–MARCH, 2008 VIRGINIA LIBRARIES PAGE 17

2007 VLA Annual Conference

Reflect, Retool, Recharge: Virginia Library Association & Virginia Association of Law Libraries Joint Conference, October 31–November 2, 2007

PHOTOGRAPHS BY PIERRE COURTOIS WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 31 1:00–4:00 p.m. Celebrate the Silver Anniversary of the Jefferson Cup Award (Preconference) Presenters: Authors Jim Murphy and Patricia Reilly Giff; Donna Hughes and the Jefferson Cup Committee

In 1983, members of VLA’s Chil- dren’s and Young Adult Round Table (CYART) decided to honor authors of exceptional historical children’s literature with the Jef- ferson Cup Award — so named for the existing cup chosen for the first winner. CYART felt that the award would be an important way for a state rich in history to encourage historical children’s literature, as well as providing a chance for librarians to meet authors at the annual conference. As CYART designed the award, the original focus on history and Presidents Pat Howe and Kevin Butterfield open the biography was soon expanded to joint conference exhibit hall Thursday morning. include historical fiction to ensure ample choices. Twenty-five years later, over two hundred specialists in youth and children’s literature Two past winners of the award, the background of such books as have contributed their talents to Patricia Reilly Giff and Jim Murphy, Nory Ryan’s Song, Maggie’s Door, and the selection process, and the com- attended the celebration to discuss Water Street, which chronicle the mittee reviews well over two hun- their experiences as writers of his- generational story of an Irish fam- dred books a year. torical literature. Giff spoke about ily who end up in Brooklyn while PAGE 18 VIRGINIA LIBRARIES JANUARY–MARCH, 2008

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 1 10:00–11:30 a.m. Opening Session Presidents Pat Howe and Kevin But- terfield opened the joint Virginia Library Association and Virginia Association of Law Libraries Con- ference at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, November 1, 2007. After the call to order and greeting, Kevin recog- nized the members of the Confer- ence Committee. Deputy Librarian Kip Campbell of the Library of Virginia brought greetings from Librarian of Vir- ginia Sandra G. Treadway, who was unable to attend because of her role in a regional historians’ conference. Her statement, read by Campbell, concluded with the Architect Richard Fitts, a perennial VLA supporter, reassurance that VLA members wishes he had remembered to duck. are encouraged to “Count on us, please. Call on us.” Libby Gleem and Lisa Brough- man, Conference Committee the bridge to Manhattan is under eral times for the same book. Mur- cochairs, introduced all the mem- construction. The books provide phy won the Jefferson Cup in 1994 bers of their committee. The audi- great scope both in history and for Across America on an Emigrant ence was generous with applause culture while drawing upon Giff’s Train, in 1996 for The Great Fire, for the work required to bring us all memories of her own family. Giff and again in 2001 for Blizzard: The to the Homestead in such delight- won the Jefferson Cup Award in Storm That Changed America. ful autumn weather. 2005 for A House of Tailors, which Concluding the session, Donna Lisa Broughman also served as portrays the life of a thirteen-year- Hughes, who organized the celebra- chair of the VLA Awards Commit- old girl who emigrates from Ger- tion, spoke about the history of the tee in 2007, and she stayed at the many to Brooklyn to escape the award and invited past and pres- podium to announce this year’s war with France. ent committee members to share recipients. Jim Murphy described the many their memories and experiences The George Mason Award went years of patient and painstaking from the award’s inception to the to Richard F. Andersen, who, in research and revision that go into present day. Handouts included a his position as vice president for his writing, such as the four years history of the award; a list of the information systems at Tidewater he put into creating The Boys’ War: 2007 committee members and Community College, proved him- Confederate and Union Soldiers Talk past chairs; and an invitation to self to be an advocate for excellent about the Civil War after encounter- obtain the new book, The Jefferson libraries through improved staffing ing a primary source, Private Elisha Cup Turns 25 by Donna J. Hughes and increased resources. Andersen Stockwell Jr. Sees the Civil War, at (Glen Allen: Foxhound Publish- advanced a unified library orga- the Newark Public Library purely ing, 2007), which chronicles the nization, promoted professional through serendipity. The vicissi- award’s history, complete with development for all levels of staff, tudes of this writer’s career have descriptions of award-winning and increased awareness of library included books that were orphaned titles, authors, honor books, and and information services at the or nearly lost within the publish- other noteworthy works. executive level of the college. ing machine when Murphy’s pub- — Lyn C. A. Gardner, Hampton The Trustee Award went to lishers changed owners or editorial Public Library Patricia Atherholt, whose involve- staff unexpectedly, sometimes sev- ment at the Goochland Branch JANUARY–MARCH, 2008 VIRGINIA LIBRARIES PAGE 19

Library began in 1990 when she became a library volunteer. Just one year later, she became the president of the Friends of the Goochland Branch Library, a posi- tion she still holds today. Atherholt was appointed to the Pamunkey Regional Library Board of Trustees in 1998, where she served as secre- tary, vice president, and president of the board. She holds member- ships to state and national library associations and was named the Outstanding Trustee of 2003 by the Virginia Public Library Direc- tor’s Association. Atherholt is an advocate for library funding on the local, state, and national levels; and it was through her leadership and

Above, VLA Awards Chair Lisa ­Broughman presents the Friends Award for 2007. Left, recognizing award winners like Richard F. Andersen is always an important part of the annual ­conference.

were chosen for the 2007 Friends Award. In the early 1980s, after decades of segregated services in Prince Edward County, two librar- ians at two separate libraries (the Farmville Reading Room and the Farmville Public Library) con- cluded that a single library would best serve all of the county’s citi- zens. After this announcement, a group of local citizens formed a friends group and incorporated in March 1984 as the Friends of the Farmville-Prince Edward Commu- nity Library. This group lobbied the local government to support efforts that the first public building Library was built and fully staffed. the creation of a public library, and to be built in Goochland County The library has become one of the through these efforts the library in decades (excepting schools) was focal points of life in Goochland, was dedicated in September 1987. constructed. Thanks to Atherholt’s thanks to Atherholt’s vision and In the twenty-three years since tireless work with the Goochland commitment. this friends group was formed, Board of Supervisors and state legis- The Friends of the Farmville- they have not faltered in their ded- lators, the new Goochland Branch Prince Edward Community Library ication and service to the library, PAGE 20 VIRGINIA LIBRARIES JANUARY–MARCH, 2008

proving that it does “take a village” to come together under strong leadership to make things happen. Finally, former Librarian of Vir- ginia Nolan Yelich was named a VLA Life Member. He began his Virginia library career in August 1968 as the director of public ser- vices at the College of William and Mary. In June 1973, he came to what was then the Virginia State Library serving in positions that included director of administrative services and deputy state librarian. In March 1995, Yelich was named state librarian in time to direct the once-in-a-lifetime move to the new Library of Virginia. Yelich retired in June 2007, having faithfully served libraries throughout the common- wealth for thirty-nine years. Yelich also served as president of the Vir- ginia Library Association in 1978. After these recognitions, Past President Ruth Arnold presented Pat Howe and Kevin Butterfield Keynote speaker David Baldacci is an advocate for literacy and philanthropist as well with gifts in appreciation of the as a best-selling author. At top, he connects with VLA members. Above, he stands work they did in preparation for with VLA President Pat Howe and Lydia Williams (left), who interviewed him for our joint conference. Virginia Libraries. (See page 9.) JANUARY–MARCH, 2008 VIRGINIA LIBRARIES PAGE 21

The Bowker booth was one of many popu- lar exhibits.

Gloria Reisinger then announced advocate, and donor. As always, Pat Howe ended the session with that Lisa Carbone had won the his presentation was insightful announcements and an invitation 2007 Jefferson Cup for her book and laced with good humor as he to attend the VLA/VALL Confer- Blood on the River: James Town 1607. discussed his experiences related ence Social. Carbone’s many awards include to becoming a successful writer — Cy Dillon, Ferrum College the 2002 Jefferson Cup for Storm “overnight” after years of work and Warriors. Blood on the River was numerous rejections. He also dis- also named the School Library Jour- cussed the research he undertakes 1:15–2:00 p.m. nal Best Book of the Year for 2006. to be sure his novels are accurate, Bridging the Gap: Serving Reisinger read a passage from the and recounted some amusing inci- Reentry Students in Public and book that clearly indicated the dents that occurred during his Academic Libraries quality of Carbone’s writing. travels. Our keynote speaker for the The author’s description of his Presenters: Jessica Schwab, Prince opening session was novelist David work promoting literacy with the William County Public Library; Baldacci, who has produced thir- Wish You Well Foundation and Heather Groves Hannan, George teen consecutive New York Times his support of Feed a Body and Mason University; and Bill Flem- best sellers and has over fifty mil- Mind — the program that gives ing, Northern Virginia Commu- lion copies of his books in print. books to children of low-income nity College We were especially fortunate that families — convinced the attendees his new novel, Stone Cold, was of his passion for using his suc- Students reentering the university available to VLA members after the cess to help society. Then Baldacci after a prolonged absence often face session five days ahead of its offi- concluded with more humor and a a complex set of challenges. Librar- cial publication date. description of how he was drawn to ies can help facilitate their informa- Baldacci’s talk began with his write the adventures of Freddy and tion seeking and can make a lasting declaration that he has been proud the French Fries to please his own impact by becoming more aware to have been closely associated with children. The author was rewarded of their needs. Presenters Jessica the libraries of Virginia; and it is with sincere applause as well as a Schwab of Prince William County certain that he has been most sup- long line at the table where he later Public Library and Heather Groves portive and generous as a speaker, signed copies of his new book. Hannan of George Mason Univer- PAGE 22 VIRGINIA LIBRARIES JANUARY–MARCH, 2008

sity collaborated with Bill Fleming resource funded by the Virginia of Northern Virginia Community Foundation for the Humanities. College in a study of adult learners. Encyclopedia Virginia is not yet To get a better picture of the issues, launched, but according to the they combined a literature review information currently available in with a survey of public librarians; its website (http://www.virginia they also interviewed public library foundation.org/encyclopedia/ directors and students. encyclopedia.html), “The purpose Librarians report that each year, of EV is to become the first point of they serve an average of forty-five reference for all users interested in adult students each. The students Virginia and to provide authorita- use public libraries because of tive and accessible information for convenience, because they have students, teachers, scholars, and prior experience with them, or business, industry, and govern- to supplement their institutional ment when they have a question libraries. Students are not always about Virginia’s history and cul- aware of the resources offered: 55 ture.” Another goal of the project percent of librarians surveyed said is to become an online textbook many do not know that public for Virginia geography. libraries offer electronic databases EV was begun in response to a similar to those of their universi- grant from the National Endow- ties. Public libraries could do more ment for the Humanities to start to market resources, such as creat- state encyclopedias in fifteen states. ing handouts specifically for adult So far, Georgia and Texas have students. online encyclopedias up and run- Nicole McGee of Virginia Beach dis- Interviews also revealed student ning. If all goes well — and there is cusses using computer gaming in a characteristics: they are engaged some question — EV will go online public library setting. and motivated, yet also very busy live in the fall of 2008. with jobs and lives. They often According to Wikander, EV is enjoy working in self-directed envi- being developed using carefully ronments and prefer assignments whether this falls within the pub- structured metadata and indexing based on real-life situations. From lic library’s mission. There are with an eye to making the user’s the instructors’ perspective, adult also concerns about staffing and experience with the site positive. students tend to be focused and resources. Services for adult learn- Proven software such as Chronilist attentive, and better at separating ers do not fit the profile of tradi- for creating timelines and Google personal difficulties and studies. tional library services, which may Maps for designing travel plans But there can be a significant tech- make fundraising difficult. Over- will be incorporated in the design. nology threshold for those who all, however, those surveyed and As opposed to Wikipedia, EV have not encountered new tech- interviewed seemed to agree that contributors are selected by the nologies in the workplace. more should be done to address staff, though there is not yet a plan Institutional and public librar- the needs of this little-known and for soliciting additional contribu- ies have an opportunity to create growing population. tors as the project grows. partnerships. Online universities — Maryke Barber, Wyndham Rob- While this session created more should work with local institutions ertson Library at Hollins University questions than it answered, it is to arrange for services; public librar- clear that VFH has an excellent ies will also benefit from liaisons at track record. Librarians should Encyclopedia Virginia: nearby universities. For their part, monitor the progress of EV and be Bridging Digital Libraries universities can assist public librar- ready to introduce our readers to it and Public History ies with reference or offer work- when it becomes available. shops such as evening sessions on Presenter: Karen Wikander — Cy Dillon, Ferrum College database research. There is also the possibility of collaborating with In the absence of Matthew Gibson, community groups. Karen Wikander undertook the Some raise questions about introduction of a new web-based JANUARY–MARCH, 2008 VIRGINIA LIBRARIES PAGE 23

Right, Elaina Norlin from CAPCON discussed using statistics and other data for making budget decisions.

Below, Heather Blicher makes a point about gaming.

M-Learning: What Is Driving Mobility and How Does It Impact Our Libraries? Presenter: W. Gardner Campbell, University of Mary Washington

Mobile devices are transforming our culture. The session looked at demand and explored how librar- ies might tap into the intimacy and ubiquity of these devices. W. Gardner Campbell pointed out that mobility means the individual moves and connects; the device should be considered secondary to the mobile user. Mobility enhances work, political, and social pro- cesses and has the potential to enhance learning experiences in and out of the library. Within two years, activities such as two- to ten- ­minute downloads (“snack TV”) will allow use where and when the user desires. Signaling and stream- ing video will be improved, and the higher speeds will be transfor- mative. Library roles might include podcasting; online reading, writ- ing, and reflection; and improved portals to physical content. Two downsides to mobility are oversharing and citizen jour- nalism. The speaker observed that library vendors continue to focus on a stable and secure mode that does not take advantage of mobility. He pointed out that mobility is considered by some to PAGE 24 VIRGINIA LIBRARIES JANUARY–MARCH, 2008

be disruptive to the learning envi- communications focused on hand. Transcripts saved by the IM ronment, as it is not formal and e-books — including a new “Vir- software can be valuable tools for not located in one place. For the tual Reading Room” added to the evaluation, but be aware that using future, the speaker offered some library webpages. Finally, the plan and archiving them creates the thoughts centered on the aspects called for gathering statistics on need for privacy policies. of intimacy, extension of self, rela- electronic book use. Both institutions offer IM ser- tionship between microcosms and The presenters then solicited vices at the same hours as refer- macrocosm, the transformative comments and suggestions from ence desk service — the later the synergy created by mobility, and the audience, leading to an inter- better, according to user feedback. the unpredictability of technology. esting discussion of e-book use at a The same reference librarians and — Karen Dillon, Carilion Health variety of colleges and universities. paraprofessionals that work the System The topic was clearly timely and of desk also handle IM queries. These interest to VLA members. are usually point-of-need: reference — Cy Dillon, Ferrum College questions, citation problems. If a 2:15–3:00 p.m. staff member needs a moment to step away, a customizable “away” Faculty Perception of Electronic IM Reference: Fast, Cheap, message notifies users. Both insti- Books for Their Use and and in Control tutions have worked hard on cre- Curriculum Support Presenters: Candice Benjes-Small, ating staff buy-in: setting a work- Presenters: Barbara Siller and Mar- Radford University; and Olivia able schedule, providing training cia Dursi, Marymount University Reinauer, University of Richmond and practice time, and alleviating common concerns. Staff need to Barbara Siller and Marcia Dursi of Instant messaging has become know, for example, that students Marymount University reported extremely popular. Over 90 percent are multitasking and do not mind on a faculty survey and a resulting of teenagers use IM. Statistics like if response is not immediate. library action plan to foster the use these have made academic libraries The new services have been of electronic titles in the Mary- take notice of a simple and virtually announced in instruction sessions mount University collection. After free way to deliver reference ser- and campus messages; they’ve been asking attendees for definitions vices. Candice Benjes-Small of Rad- featured on stickers on library com- of electronic books, they reported ford University and Olivia Reinauer puters, handouts, home pages, and that theirs for the project in ques- of the University of Richmond gave blogs. The number of IM questions tion was simply digitized content a presentation that covered plan- received has surpassed email refer- that was cataloged and available ning, implementation, marketing, ence at both institutions, and the for users to read. and assessment of RULibSpot (Rad- University of Richmond receives Siller and Dursey explained that ford’s IM service since spring 2007) more IM than telephone questions. before the project, they assumed and boatwrightinfo (Richmond’s Both institutions plan on using that electronic books were under- since spring 2005). MeeboMe to embed chat windows used, and that their survey revealed Benjes-Small and Reinauer directly into their websites. this to be the case. Responses from shared experiences with com- — Maryke Barber, Wyndham Rob- 31 of 144 faculty members indi- mercial products, including the ertson Library at Hollins University cated that there was some confu- downsides: firewall issues, high sion about the availability of the costs, and insufficient vendor sup- To 2.0 or Not to 2.0: texts and a general lack of under- port. Some required users to fill in That Is the Question standing of how these items could a form, which led to low use. Freely be used to support class work, available IM, already used by many Presenters: Dora Rowe, James though new faculty seemed more patrons, offered fewer technical L. Hamner Public Library; and comfortable with e-books than vet- and usability issues. Rebecca A. Russell, Association for eran teachers. While most users are on AIM, Healthcare Philanthropy Based on these outcomes, the the recent availability of aggrega- library developed a plan to inform tors (Trillian, Meebo) allows one Small libraries face obstacles con- faculty about what was available, to get messages from multiple ser- necting with their patrons. This concentrating on reference titles. vices. The presenters noted that session showed how small librar- Increased emphasis on electronic scripts for standard responses are ies with limited time, small bud- titles was added to bibliographic useful, although they are used less gets, and few staff can implement instruction sessions, and library once staff develop their own short- aspects of Web 2.0 technology. Web JANUARY–MARCH, 2008 VIRGINIA LIBRARIES PAGE 25

“Hands-on” is always a hit with VLA members.

2.0 allows users to consume and index.html); the Osage City Public services, Campbell guided the also create. Web 2.0 is user-centered Library in Kansas (http://skyways. audience through ways to discover and socially rich, and no one is lib.ks.us/library/osagecity/); the information such as the value and in charge. The infrastructure is Caestecker Public Library of Green layout of homes, the standing of cheap, devices are ubiquitous, and Lake and the Town of Brooklyn, medical professionals, the location interactive behavior is the norm. Wisconsin (http://www.greenlake of sex offenders (including where Applications such as iGoogle, AIM, library.org/); the Dolores Public they work and what the offense PeanutButterWiki (PBwiki), Meebo, Library of Colorado (http://www. was), court records, death records, MySpace, Flickr, Glogger, YouTube, doloreslibrary.org/); the Haines and military records. While some WordPress, and phpBB allow the Borough Public Library of Alaska sources are available only to legal user to make changes or comments (http://www.haineslibrary.org/ and law-enforcement personnel, on websites. Some applications are default.htm); and the Richmond an amazing amount of informa- free, while others require a higher Public Library of Kansas (http:// tion about individuals is acces- level of technical expertise. A richmond.mykansaslibrary.org/). sible to the public. In addition to demonstration of how very small — Karen Dillon, Carilion Health various Internet phone/address libraries are using Web 2.0 appli- System directories, some key sites include cations showed how blogs, instant the Virginia Department of Health messaging, forums, photos, social Professions (http://www.dhp. You Can Run But You Can’t Hide bookmarking, and social calendars state.va.us/), the Virginia State Bar have been creatively incorporated Presenter: Evelyn M. Campbell, (http://www.vsb.org/), the Virginia into library websites; some good Hunton & Williams LLP State Police Sex Offender Regis- examples are the sites of the James try Search (http://sex-offender. L. Hamner Public Library in Ame- Evelyn M. Campbell presented vsp.virginia.gov/sor/html/search. lia, Virginia (http://www.hamner attendees with a wide array of htm), Virginia’s Judicial System library.org/); the Tonganoxie Public resources that librarians and the Case Information (http://www. Library in Kansas (http://www.ton public can use to track down indi- courts.state.va.us/caseinfo/home. ganoxielibrary.org/); the Waterboro viduals, whether for legal or genea- html), the Social Security Death Public Library in Maine (http:// logical research. Armed with a Index (http://ssdi.rootsweb.com/), www.waterborolibrary.org/oldsite/ handout of free sites and fee-based the Library of Virginia (http:// PAGE 26 VIRGINIA LIBRARIES JANUARY–MARCH, 2008

Denise Morgan and Irene Oster- man looked at bringing humor to the library.

The crowned heads of VLA in the humor session. JANUARY–MARCH, 2008 VIRGINIA LIBRARIES PAGE 27

www.lva.lib.va.us/), the Genealo- thought of the story, what the group should start slowly, includ- gists/Family Historians page of the reading experience was like, why ing reading passages aloud. Some National Archives (http://www. characters made certain choices in suggested works include A Death in archives.gov/­genealogy/), and the the book, whether it’s possible for the Family by James Agee, The Sweet National WWII Memorial (http:// a person to change, and why it’s Hereafter by Russell Banks, Iron- www.wwiimemorial.com/). so difficult to discuss one’s feel- man by Chris Crutcher, “A Dream — Lyn C. A. Gardner, Hampton ings. All students were required to Deferred” by Langston Hughes, Public Library participate actively, and while they The Things They Carried by Tim were allowed to disagree, none O’Brien, The Autobiography of Mal- could disrespect another’s opin- colm X, and Black and Blue by Anna 4:00–4:45 p.m. ion: each voice was important. Quindlen. Ideally, classes should After twelve weeks, students had contain students of the same sex, Changing Lives through Literature learned to listen differently and to with the instructor of the same Presenter: Katherine (Katie) Strot- feel that their opinions mattered. gender as participants. Class size man, Fairfax County Public Library Many began to read to their chil- should be kept small — about eight dren and reconnect with family to twelve participants — to allow In this inspirational session, Katie members, and some even started all to fully engage in the discus- Strotman described a program college classes. In 1992, a women’s sions. The offenders need to be implemented by Fairfax County group began. By the summer of screened to make sure that they that truly reaffirms the social value 1993, forty men had been through have the motivation to take part of literature. In 1991, Robert Wax- the program, providing a basis and are willing to try; they should ler, a Massachusetts English profes- for a statistical evaluation, which also be free of alcohol and drugs sor, and his friend, Judge Robert showed that 45 percent of the con- and have transportation to meet- Kane, created a pioneering pro- trol group had been reconvicted, ings. If possible, it’s best to buy gram, Changing Lives through Lit- while only 18.75 percent of those books that the students can keep; erature (CLTL), which they hoped who’d gone CLTL had been — with however, the program can be done would help alter the prevalence crimes that tended to be against without funding, if the facilitator of “turnstile justice” that brings property rather than people. donates the time and the students the same offenders back to court Since then, the program has use materials from the library. again and again. Probation Officer been replicated in eleven states Fairfax County Public Library Wayne St. Pierre, who loves books and England. Strotman provided a hosted four groups in 2007: three and literature, assisted them in number of motivating statistics: in juvenile sessions (two with girls developing guidelines and screen- 2006, there were 36,000 men and and one with boys) and one adult ing for potential students among women imprisoned in Virginia, session (women). At the conclu- those convicted. Students would at a cost of $22,000 per prisoner, sion of the program, students attend a mandatory twelve-week with a recidivism rate of 29 to 51 take part in a ceremony in which literature course on the Dartmouth percent. Strotman described practi- they receive library cards and cer- campus in exchange for a reduced cal ways to implement the program tificates of completion. If you’re sentence. The first group of eight in your own community. The par- interested in starting your own men had 148 convictions among ticipation of allies is essential. Part- program, check out the Changing them; many had never graduated ners need to include members of Lives through Literature website from high school. The only crimes the justice system (at least a judge (http://dev.cltl.umassd.edu/Home- not represented were murder and and probation officer) as well as a HTML.cfm). rape; the students suffered from facilitator or librarian with a love — Lyn C. A. Gardner, Hampton low self-esteem, poverty, drug of literature who’s willing to let the Public Library abuse, and family problems. Wax- text speak directly to the students ler selected works such as James and is good at extemporaneous Going Mobile: Keeping the Baldwin’s “Sonny’s Blues,” James thought. Location is important: it Library and Patrons Together Dickey’s Deliverance, and Jack helps participants to enter an envi- London’s The Sea Wolf that he felt ronment different from the normal Presenters: Lydia Patrick and Bob would speak to their experiences, routine that constantly reminds Bowie, Fairfax County Public including issues of male identity, them that they’re offenders. While Library authority, violence, power, and they should ideally have a reading family problems. Discussion ques- level of eighth grade or above, their Lydia Patrick started the session tions included what participants reading skills may be rusty, so the by asking everyone to keep their PAGE 28 VIRGINIA LIBRARIES JANUARY–MARCH, 2008

Fairfax County Public Library sponsors a pro- gram using literature to turn around the lives of lawbreakers.

phones as mobile phones, Patrick away from ILS, database searching, reminded everyone that “mobile lengthy forms, and social network- refers to the user, not the device,” ing — unless you have a lot of time as pointed out by Barbara Ballard on your hands. For instance, data- in Designing the Mobile User Experi- base searching on a mobile device ence (Chichester: Wiley, 2007). would require at least three steps: Bowie shared his current chal- first an authentication process, lenge: “How do you shrink a then keying in the search terms, webpage to be useful on a mobile and finally retrieving the results on device?” In an attempt to meet this a screen about a tenth the monitor challenge, he asked himself, “What size of a personal computer. Some do they want from me?” Bowie has things are better left to the desk- mobile devices on! Sharing cur- come up with six basic answers that top, in Bowie’s opinion. rent usage and trend statistics, she FCPL mobile patrons want: contact Patrick and Bowie embrace what explained how beta experiments information and phone numbers, they see FCPL’s mobile patrons become success stories within the directions to FCPL locations, item doing. Their task has been to bring Fairfax County Public Library Sys- availability, renewal access and what is outside of the library into tem (FCPL). A crowd of interested information, program registra- the library in a useful way, so librarians listened as the presenters tion, and access to what is avail- library services are integrated with gave an overview of FCPL efforts able to hear or watch. Of course, mobile device functionality. to keep up with their mobile cus- mobile patrons don’t just want to — Heather Groves Hannan, Mercer tomers. In particular, Patrick called find the contact information and Library @ George Mason University’s attention to her observations of phone number; they want to be Prince William Campus human behavior. When she finds able to highlight the number and herself stuck in Northern Virginia instantly have their devices call it. Researching Virginia Laws and traffic, she watches people and However, that requires special cod- Public Records on the Internet observes what those in the next car ing that may or may not work with are doing with their cell phones, each device’s browser. Presenters: Rae Ellen Best and Femi MP3 players, PDAs, etc. In 2006, In trying to keep life simple, Cadmus, George Mason University there were 2.6 billion cell phone Bowie’s work focuses on three key Law Library subscribers worldwide, and nearly points: ensure speedy response, 20 percent owned more than use CSS & XHTML, and go verti- So much information was packed one phone. Though most of the cal with composition whenever into this presentation that I believe audience might refer to their cell possible. He suggested staying it could have easily been two sepa- JANUARY–MARCH, 2008 VIRGINIA LIBRARIES PAGE 29

Members enjoy the Thursday evening Social.

The Oral History Initiative: A rate sessions. Rae Best gave a good the project has recorded more than Community Project overview of Virginia legislative seventy interviews since its incep- and administrative law online Presenters: Alicia Sell and Carla tion in 2006. resources. Working from the Vir- Lewis, Roanoke Public Libraries Community organizations ginia Legislative Information are natural partners in this ven- System website (http://leg1.state. Alicia Sell and Carla Lewis pre- ture: RPL has worked with nurs- va.us/), Best demonstrated searches sented the Oral History Initiative, ing homes, schools, churches, for current legislation and the vari- a project of the Roanoke Public and neighborhood associations ety of other information available. Libraries (RPL). This project aims to find subjects and volunteers. Cadmus discussed the differ- to record the stories and memories Grant funding for equipment was ence between “publicly available of Roanoke’s neighborhoods as obtained from the city; to con- information” (provided volun- recounted by ordinary citizens, and vince library administration of tarily) and “public records” (filed make them available for research, your needs, Sell noted that it helps with the government and available education, and preservation. The to provide information about how for inspection). She then reviewed project initially focused on the his- equipment may be used in the a number of sites providing both toric African-American neighbor- future. RPL purchased a laptop, kinds of information: www. hood of Gainsboro, then expanded software, external microphone, brbpub­.com, http://www.indorgs. when it became clear that many scanner, and CD-ROMs; in addi- virginia.edu/portico/, www.zillow. were enthusiastic about the pros- tion, several portable digital record- com, and more. pect of preserving local history ers were purchased for homebound — Barbie Selby, University of Vir- in this way. RPL also joined the interviews. ginia Library of Congress’s Veterans His- The recorders, bagged with tory Project to preserve the recol- instructions and transcription lections of wartime veterans. With equipment, can be checked out the help of community volunteers, with a library card. After a fifteen- PAGE 30 VIRGINIA LIBRARIES JANUARY–MARCH, 2008

minute training session, a vol- you received an agenda in advance Two books, Sharon Lippincott’s unteer interviewer is ready to go. of the meeting, the meeting started Meetings: Do’s, Don’ts, and Donuts: Those who are uncomfortable with on time, the right people/decision- The Complete Handbook for Success- interviews can still help by tran- makers were in the room, and the ful Meetings, 2nd ed. (Pittsburgh: scribing or creating finding aids. right tools were available. By the Lighthouse Point Press, 1999), and While perfect for this work, volun- end of Holcomb’s questions all but Grace McGartland’s Thunderbolt teers also provide some challenges; one attendee were seated. Thinking: Transform Your Insights providing adequate training and Holcomb encouraged the audi- and Options into Powerful Business guidelines is crucial. ence to consider using meeting Results (Austin: Bard, 1994), were The Oral History Initiative also opportunities to make “meeting highlighted for future reading. includes images: photographs magic.” In her opinion, to create — Heather Groves Hannan, Mercer taken at the time of the interview meeting magic, one must create a Library @ George Mason University’s and scans of materials lent by inter- commonsense approach to meet- Prince William Campus viewees. Sell recommended stor- ing management to keep the proj- ing files in multiple formats — for ect process moving forward, pro- Our Jefferson Cup Overfloweth example, RPL is keeping sound files vide staff with training to ensure in WAV and MP3 — and planning successful meetings, and monitor Presenters: 2007 Jefferson Cup for format migration. meeting effectiveness. A lack of Committee Current access to the collec- participation from each meeting tion is by a visit to RPL’s Virginia attendee or no follow-up on action Members of the 2007 Jefferson Cup Room. Eventually materials will be items at the end of a meeting can Committee took turns present- made available to schools, along undo the “spell” of a productive ing some of their favorite books with standards-based lesson plans. meeting. of the 2006 publishing year. This Finding aids will be accessible via It’s also a good idea for the year’s committee gave the award to the Virginia Heritage database, library manager or director to assess Blood on the River: James Town 1607 and project plans include a website the library’s meeting IQ, according by Elisa Carbone; recognized Dark with images and digital samples. to Holcomb. Steps to assess a meet- Water Rising by Marian Hale and — Maryke Barber, Wyndham Rob- ing’s IQ include identifying who 5,000 Miles to Freedom: Ellen and ertson Library at Hollins University owns the decision-making process William Craft’s Flight from Slavery in your library, determining what by Judith Bloom Fradin and Den- role meetings play as part of the nis Brindell Fradin as honor books; library’s decision-making process, and highlighted The 9/11 Report: A FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 2 conducting a meeting “audit” to Graphic Adaptation by Sid Jacobson 9:30–10:15 a.m. determine the effectiveness of the and Ernie Colon and the National meeting process, and developing a Geographic Photobiography Series Lost That Whistle-While-You- plan to implement a meeting cul- as a book and a series worthy of Work Feeling? Staff Meeting ture for your library based on the note (for more information about Management Strategies for findings of your audit. Holcomb these works, visit http://www. Library Directors and Managers reminded the audience that every vla.org/cyart/jefferson_cup/2007. Presenter: Jean M. Holcomb, retired meeting has a cost. Calculating htm). director of the King County Law the cost of a one-hour meeting in However, with over two hun- Library (Westfield, North Carolina) her former library (King County dred and fifty books to consider for Law Library in Westfield, North only one winner, there were also At the beginning of the presenta- Carolina), Holcomb was surprised many other worthy titles that the tion, Holcomb polled the audience to realize an hour meeting cost committee would like to bring to of librarians and found the follow- $16,000. She considered what she our attention. Attendees enjoyed ing: a third of the attendees worked would have told her Library Board learning about the following nota- in public libraries, a third worked of Trustees if they had ever asked ble books of 2006 via booktalks in academic libraries, a handful what they got for their money. and handouts: The Adventurous worked in law libraries, and three Holcomb closed by highlight- Life of Myles Standish and the Amaz- worked in special libraries. Hol- ing helpful resources for meeting ing but True Survival Story of Plym- comb then had the capacity crowd management information. One outh Colony by Cheryl Harness; stand up. She asked attendees to sit resource, www.effectivemeetings. The Aliens Are Coming by Meghan down if one of the following had com, includes the option to sub- McCarthy; Ask Me No Questions not occurred at a recent meeting: scribe to an electronic newsletter. by Marina Budhos; The Astonish- JANUARY–MARCH, 2008 VIRGINIA LIBRARIES PAGE 31

ing Adventures of Octavian Nothing, Poems and Art by Diane Siebert; Creating a posting is a flex- Traitor to the Nation. Volume I, The The Unresolved by T. K. Welsh; Up ible process accomplished in a few Pox Party by M. T. Anderson; Black Before Daybreak: Cotton and People clicks. PennTags users (posting is Duck by Janet Taylor Lisle; Blue by in America by Deborah Hopkinson; restricted to the Penn Community) Joyce Moyer Hostetter; Bread and Water Street by Patricia Reilly Giff; can post items while browsing the Roses, Too by Katherine Paterson; and Wild Lives: A History of the Peo- online catalog, or they may use a Children of Alcatraz: Growing Up ple and Animals of the Bronx Zoo by browser toolbar. RSS capability on the Rock by Claire Rudolf Mur- Kathleen Weidner Zoehfeld. allows users to subscribe to a feed phy; Copper Sun by Sharon Draper; — Lyn C. A. Gardner, Hampton that will notify them of new post- Crossing Box Chitto: A Choctaw Tale Public Library ings added to any project, tag, or of Friendship and Freedom by Tim user account. Technical advantages Tingle; The Deep Cut by Susan Ros- include a stable URL structure, PennTags — When Card Catalogs son Spain; Dinosaur Bone War: Cope which allows easy sharing. Penn- Meet Tags in Libraries and Marsh’s Fossil Feud by Elizabeth Tags also adds value to the library Cody Kimmel; Dizzy by Jonah Presenter: Melanie E. Cedrone, catalog. Tags and annotations Winter; Escape! The Story of the University of Pennsylvania from PennTags are displayed in Great Houdini by Sid Fleischman; the OPAC, giving searchers access Everybody’s Revolution by Thomas The libraries at the University of to the metadata created by fellow Fleming; Finding Day’s Bottom by Pennsylvania have developed a new patrons. Candice Ransom; Freedom Riders: and innovative tool for students, Behind all this capacity are an John Lewis and Jim Zwerg on the Front faculty, and librarians: PennTags Oracle database, PERL script, and Lines of the Civil Rights Movement by (http://tags.library.upenn.edu/) AJAX. Cedrone noted that the sys- Ann Bausum; Freedom Walkers: The applies the power of social tagging tem is lightweight and has plenty Story of the Montgomery Bus Boycott to library resources. Based on the of room for future functional- by Russell Freedman; Georgie’s Moon Web 2.0 principle of collaboration, ity. Currently the database only by Chris Woodworth; Geronimo by PennTags is similar to free online searches the title and tags of each Joseph Bruchac; Good Fortune: My resources such as Del.icio.us, but posting, but future plans include Journey to Gold Mountain by Li Keng offers features specifically for the searchable annotations. Develop- Wong; The Green Glass Sea: A Novel university environment. Users ers also plan to make PennTags by Ellen Klages; Hattie Big Sky by can discover, organize, and share accounts exportable to such appli- Kirby Larson; Here Lies the Librarian online content, and do it all in one cations as Microsoft Word and by Richard Peck; Heroes of Baseball: place. RefWorks. Finally, they are looking The Men Who Made It America’s Presenter Melanie Cedrone gave at the issue of inheritance, which Favorite Game by Robert Lipsyte; the following example: a profes- would allow for user accounts to be House of the Red Fish by Graham sor might create a bibliography of taken over when the original cre- Salisbury; John, Paul, George & Ben resources for her class and invite ator leaves the university. by Lane Smith; The Loud Silence of students and librarians to add post- — Maryke Barber, Wyndham Rob- Francine Green by Karen Cushman; ings to her project. Postings may be ertson Library at Hollins University Marvelous Mattie: How Margaret E. websites, catalog records, journal Knight Became an Inventor by Emily articles, or entire databases. Penn- Where’s the Nonfiction Section? Arnold McCully; Moses: When Har- Tags pulls all the resources together Transitioning Freshmen from riet Tubman Led Her People to Free- and allows the user to annotate a High School to an Academic dom by Carole Boston Weatherford; them with tags and longer text. Library Night Boat to Freedom by Margot The projects and postings can be Theis Raven; Now & Ben: The Mod- shared or kept private. This flexibil- Presenters: Carolyn Meier and ern Inventions of Benjamin Franklin ity has faculty using PennTags to Connie Stovall, Virginia Tech by Gene Barretta; A Pickpocket’s create assignments and collaborate Tale by Karen Schwabach; Saving with colleagues, while students cre- Carolyn Meier and Connie Stoval the Buffalo by Albert Marrin; Search ate projects of their research mate- presented this informative and and Destroy by Dean Hughes; Tales rials. Librarians also use PennTags detailed program on Virginia of Young Americans Series (Sleeping to promote resources, build path- Tech’s efforts to create instruction Bear Press/Gale); Team Moon: How finders, and supplement reference sessions and learning objects to 4,000 People Landed Apollo 11 on appointments. PennTags currently help their 5,100 freshmen learn the Moon by Catherine Thimmesh; contains over 13,000 postings with to assess information in a large Tour America: A Journey through some 11,000 unique tags. academic library. They began PAGE 32 VIRGINIA LIBRARIES JANUARY–MARCH, 2008

Left, Past President Ruth Arnold announced the 2008 officers.

Below, Alex Reczkowski is one of three scholarship winners.

by explaining that Tech’s biblio- rate of 8 percent, the results clearly improvements in their transitional graphic instruction efforts tradi- indicated a low level of freshman program. They identified gaps in tionally reached about 65 percent understanding of how to use the their instruction and responded of freshmen through sessions for library and a severe lack of experi- with tactics such as designing post- composition and communications ence with writing research papers ers to identify areas of the library classes, but that there was little in high school. In fact, 23 percent with the resources available there documentation for this approach. of the freshmen surveyed indi- and creating a Blackboard site that In order to determine the start- cated that they had never written a combined all information for fresh- ing point for frosh, the Tech library research paper, and 48 percent had men in one place and included staff used the campus course man- fewer than two experiences with announcements and promotions as agement system to deliver a survey using research databases. well as a staff directory. New eve- on information literacy as well as The Tech staff responded by ning tours geared to subject areas an assessment instrument for the using the Association of College were offered, and a target group traditional library introduction and Research Libraries’ informa- of frosh was identified for pretest- program. In spite of a response tion literacy standards to construct ing, instruction, and assessment. JANUARY–MARCH, 2008 VIRGINIA LIBRARIES PAGE 33

2007 also saw an increase in the activity of the Leadership Develop- ment Forum; and, as always, the VLA Paraprofessional Forum held a very successful conference. Howe thanked the VLA Executive Com- mittee and Council for their work during the year, and pronounced the finances of our association in good order. Upon the conclusion of Howe’s remarks, Ruth Arnold, past presi- dent and chair of the Nomina- tions Committee, announced the election of the following officers for 2008: Matt Todd, treasurer; Caryl Gray, second vice president; and Robin Benke, vice president/­ president-elect. The Scholarship Committee then presented three scholarships to outstanding VLA members pur- suing graduate degrees in library Roy Tennant held our attention Friday morning. and information science. Alex Reczkowski is employed in the technical services depart- The library also began more active who were not present for the open- ment at Hampden-Sydney College, participation in summer orienta- ing session, and a dynamic talk and is earning his MLIS from the tion sessions, using them to make by Roy Tennant, senior program University of Illinois. He is active one-on-one contact with incoming manager for OCLC Programs and in local civic groups, including students. Research. being a board member of the R. R. There are a variety of additional After approval of last year’s min- Moton Museum in Farmville and efforts such as web tutorials, vir- utes, Pat Howe began the meet- participating in community live tual tours, and a posttest in the ing with a state of the association arts in Charlottesville. He has been planning stage. address in which she declared the a member of VLA since 2006. Recz- The presenters offered to pro- VLA Agenda for 2007 had been kowski is also active in the VLAPF, vide interested attendees with cop- met. Howe reported that the Leg- and became a member of the ies of the pre- and posttests, and islative Committee, under Jerry board in June 2006, serving as the concluded with a lively question- McKenna, has been as effective as recording secretary. Winner of the and-answer session that drew par- possible, given the momentum for 2007 Clara Stanley VLAPF Schol- ticipation from library staff from a a filtering bill going into the 2007 arship, he says: “With knowledge, wide variety of institutions. General Assembly session. She also experience, and enthusiasm, I will — Cy Dillon, Ferrum College recounted that American Library continue to make a difference for Association Legislative Day had Virginia, its libraries, and its com- been a success, with all the region munities.” 10:30 a.m.–12:00 p.m. chairs attending. In addition, Lee Criscuolo of Spotsylvania the VLA website was redesigned; is employed as a reference assis- Second General Session and a blog for the VLA Council was tant at the Central Rappahannock Business Meeting added; and the various VLA list- Regional Library in Fredericksburg. Speaker: Roy Tennant servs were quite active. Last year’s A member of VLA since 2006, she Membership Committee fulfilled is earning her MLIS from the Texas This session combined the VLA its charge; VLA had good repre- Woman’s University. In addition to Annual Business Meeting with the sentation at ALA events; and Uni- working at the library and pursu- presentation of VLA Scholarships, versity of Richmond librarian Jim ing her degree, Criscuolo has been recognition of some award-winners Rettig was elected ALA President. active in several community orga- PAGE 34 VIRGINIA LIBRARIES JANUARY–MARCH, 2008

nizations. About completing her have to learn to cultivate the good Managing the Clash of Veterans, degree, Criscuolo says, “I believe librarians and weed out the poor Boomers, Xers, and Nexters in Your gaining experience in different performers. He summed up the Workplace by Ron Zemke, Claire departments of the library will traits of a good librarian: a desire to Raines, and Bob Filipczak (New enhance my abilities as a librar- learn, the ability to work indepen- York: AMACOM, 2000) as an over- ian and my ability to benefit the dently, flexibility, a willingness to view of core values and genera- library in the future.” take risks, a public service perspec- tional personalities (the original Cheryl Duncan of Dayton is tive, eagerness to work in groups, source cited, “Generations at Work: employed as head of acquisitions and skill at fostering change. A Candid Snapshot of the Gen- at the James Madison University Our speaker closed with an erations … and Their Differences,” Libraries. She is earning her MLIS appeal that we always keep in 2007, http://www.amanet.org, from Texas Woman’s University. A mind “what will be best for library is no longer available). Another member of VLA since early 2007, users.” title, Getting Things Done When You Duncan is excited about the future Pat Howe then returned to the Are Not in Charge by Geoffrey M. of libraries and states, “This is an lectern to thank the Conference Bellman (San Francisco: Berrett- exciting time to work in libraries. Committee and the 2007 officers ­Koehler Publishers, 2001), focuses I look forward to collaborating before passing the gavel to Donna on how to successfully interact with my colleagues throughout Cote, president for 2008. Cote with diverse styles. The speakers academia to create innovative solu- thanked Howe for her service and referenced www.mycvbuilder.com tions to answer the challenges of called on VLA members to “speak for a list of negative attitudes and libraries.” up” on key legislative issues this fixes, such as the suggestion to Morel Frye, from the VLA Foun- year. She announced that the 2008 organize low-energy tasks for times dation Board, then announced Annual Conference will be held when work energy is low. The ses- that the foundation’s fundraising from October 23–24, 2008, at the sion concluded with a reminder would focus on scholarships. The Williamsburg Marriott in beautiful from Fish! Tales: Real-Life Stories foundation has raised over forty Williamsburg. to Help You Transform Your Work- thousand dollars, and continues to After closing remarks from VALL place and Your Life by Stephen C. seek donations from VLA members President Kevin Butterfield, the ses- Lundin, John Christensen, Harry and friends. sion ended, to be followed by a full Paul, and Philip Strand: “People Pat Howe then introduced Roy afternoon of concurrent sessions. who take themselves less seriously Tennant, who delivered a wide- — Cy Dillon, Ferrum College are far more pleasant to associate ranging and quite engaging dis- with.” Go fish! cussion of the roles of librarians — Karen Dillon, Carilion Health and libraries in an age more and 1:45–2:30 p.m. System more dominated by rapid techno- Fishing for the Right Attitude: logical change. He described the Don’t Miss the Boat! New Trends in Fiction characteristics of library users, urg- ing us to focus on their needs and Presenters: Amy W. Boykin and Presenters: Neil Hollands, Penel- expectations rather than our own; Alicia Willson-Metzger, Christo- ope Hamblin, and Jessica Zellers, reminded us that we are in a time pher Newport University Williamsburg Regional Library of transition, when our systems do not exactly match user needs; and Did you know that peppermint Williamsburg Regional Library pre- dispensed some advice on dealing candy increases alertness, energy, sented another engaging session with the situation. Tennant sug- and a positive attitude? This light- on genre — this time on a number gested that we try to understand hearted session began with a bowl of new trends that are drawing a and serve our clientele, learn new of candy, a discussion about prob- lot of readers, but may not be on technologies ahead of the curve, lem attitudes in the workplace, the map yet for some reader’s advi- connect our users to that technol- and a list of web-based tools to sory programs. The handouts alone ogy, make access as easy and con- help assess your attitude (www. provided a wealth of information, venient as possible, constantly mar- humanmetrics.com). The session giving an overview of each genre, ket our resources, and be resolved provided an excellent bibliogra- its audience, trendsetters, recom- to never stop changing. phy (a slideshow is also available mended authors and titles, and After describing some of the cur- at http://library.cnu.edu/vla2007/ summaries of some representative rent problems with library technol- Fishing.ppt). Speakers highly rec- books. The handouts included ogy, Tennant emphasized that we ommended Generations at Work: “International Literary Fiction”; JANUARY–MARCH, 2008 VIRGINIA LIBRARIES PAGE 35

new emphasis on tropes of the fantastic and science fiction and the revival of gothic romance as a part of the paranormal romance genre (one example is Eve Silver’s gothic romance, Dark Prince), and the mainstreaming of erotica. There’s even some crossover with manga, with Harlequin Pink reis- suing old titles as manga, and some print books such as Liz Maverick’s Wired (a blend of romance, science fiction, and cyberpunk) taking advantage of the appeal of manga in the cover art and the fast-paced narrative structure. Dark Hunger by Christine Feehan (a vampire romance) is an original romance issued in manga format. Science fiction, in an effort to regain falling readership, has returned to some of the basics that originally helped the genre take off, with a greater emphasis on action and adventure; social commentary and satire are as much in force as they were during science fiction’s golden age. In addition, today’s The traditional passing of the gavel to the new president. science fiction heroes appeal to a wider variety of readers, with more women and older protagonists. “Romance: The Morphing of the Flower and the Secret Fan by Lisa Some recommended titles include Genre”; “Nonfiction Graphic See. With so many global events Rollback by Robert J. Sawyer, The ­Novels”; “Back to Basics Science in the news, many readers want to Skinner by Neal Asher, In War Times Fiction”; “Literary Historical Fic- find ways to make them personal; by Kathleen Ann Goonan, and Old tion Set in the Twentieth Century”; further, globalization has been Man’s War by John Scalzi. “Slipstream, aka Literary Fantastic, making more of these works avail- Nonfiction graphic novels are aka New Weird”; “Fiction Graphic able in translation. Many deal with applying literary and artistic sen- Novels”; “Not the Usual Suspects: important world issues, couched in sibilities to stories of high inter- Recommended Recent Thrill- terms of the everyday lives of indi- est, many of them in the form of ers”; and “Complex and Gritty viduals surviving contemporary or memoirs, such as Alison Bechdel’s ­Fantasy.” historic events; the human story Fun Home: A Family Tragicomic, Presenters highlighted six of makes these works sympathetic about her father’s death and issues these nine genres, providing fur- across cultures. Some of the titles of sexual identity; Mom’s Cancer by ther insight into what defines highlighted in this genre include Brian Fies, which originated as a them and makes them appealing A Concise Chinese-English Dictionary web comic and won an Eisner; and and describing what types of read- for Lovers by Xiaolu Guo, Beasts of Joe Kubert’s Fax from Sarajevo: A ers might be interested in trying No Nation by Uzodinma Iweala, The Story of Survival, based on his corre- them out. For example, people Bastard of Istanbul by Elif Shafak, spondence with people in Sarajevo who like historical novels, travel, and The Septembers of Shiraz by during the Bosnian war. and exploring other cultures Dalia Sofer. In addition to the current popu- might enjoy international liter- Other genres are facing some larity of Tudor fiction and Jane ary fiction, which includes such exciting changes as well. Romance Austen “sequels,” historical fic- acclaimed titles as The Kite Run- has been revitalized through mix- tion has recently seen a number ner by Khaled Hosseini and Snow ing with other genres, such as the of great novels set in the twentieth PAGE 36 VIRGINIA LIBRARIES JANUARY–MARCH, 2008

century, focusing either on fiction- and visibility of government docu- it difficult to repurpose space to alized versions of real people or fic- ments in libraries, Selby looked accommodate electronic needs; tional characters set in real, tragic to some of her recent experiences for instance, UVA discovered that situations. Some of these notewor- with popular culture to discover a library building’s 1930s wiring thy titles include Loving Frank by lessons that may help libraries of scheme couldn’t support students Nancy Horan (about Frank Lloyd all types improve their PR with plugging in laptops. Wright); The Last Summer of the the communities they serve. The Know your audience. We may World by Emily Mitchell (about presentation was illustrated with think we know our audience, but photographer Edward Steichen); striking pictures of the venues we may not be as good at sharing Signed, Mata Hari by Yannick Mur- and artists from whom Selby took knowledge of our new systems phy; Dreamers of the Day by Mary inspiration. or getting community input. It’s Doria Russell (about T. E. Lawrence, Do what you’re good at. Be important to be where people are; Winston Churchill, and Gertrude involved in new technology, but public libraries in shopping centers Bell); and The Pirate’s Daughter by remember also what we do well. are often successful at this. Margaret Cezair-Thompson (about Use new technology and ways of Get to know famous people. (And Errol Flynn). communicating to improve tradi- get your picture taken with them.) Finally, slipstream, also known tional library services. One of the This helps both with fundraising as the “New Weird” or the literary things libraries do well is commu- and publicity. And be sure to stay fantastic, is “science fiction and fan- nicating face to face, a value which abreast of hot topics and financial tasy gone respectable.” These sto- is often overlooked. Libraries can issues — Timing is critical in making ries use the fantastic to shed light also be very good at offering nice an impact. on the human condition in a man- community spaces in the Internet Be flexible. In times of change, ner sometimes compared to magi- age. be sure you know who your users cal realism. Neither straight sci- Reinvent yourself. Exploit vari- are — and who they might be. What ence fiction or fantasy, nor straight ous media to reach out; be avail- might libraries offer to get people literature, these books consider able in all kinds of formats. There in the door that we don’t think of real-life situations through the lens are many creative ways to engage as traditional library programs? of wonder, appealing to literary as the community, such as putting Consider ways to creatively reuse well as genre readers. One excellent local people on READ posters, cre- space or offer new programs. Some example is The Double, written by ating YouTube videos, or provid- libraries have shown movies to José Saramago, who won the Nobel ing a book blog. Provide different attract patrons. George Mason’s Prize for Literature. Another recom- and interesting giveaways and library bought a hot dog cart and a mended title is Kelly Link’s Magic handouts, such as temporary tat- laptop with wireless and provided for Beginners, with magical stories toos with the Chinese symbol for reference services from the cart that frequently take experimental “answer” and the reference depart- at the Student Center across cam- narrative risks that have previously ment email address, or chocolate pus. When a big flood destroyed been more at home in literature, bars with library information on the University of Hawaii regional particularly the avant-garde. the wrapper. federal depository library, they — Lyn C. A. Gardner, Hampton Go on the road. Beyond the replaced their collections with Public Library bookmobile, libraries can also microfilm and digital copies. bring programs to the commu- You can’t always get what you nity. UVA Special Collections vis- want. But, as the Rolling Stones 2:45–3:30 p.m. its classrooms to teach; the library say, trying may bring what you brings books to the lunchroom for need. While you may not find the Las Vegas Lessons manual checkout. Selby even ran a answers in one place, libraries can Presenter: Barbie Selby, University shipboard library for the Semester cobble together support from sev- of Virginia at Sea program. eral places; through cultivating Get a good slogan. But also make donors and canny public relations, The session’s subtitle says it all: sure it truly represents you. Stick UVA was able to construct a new “What Libraries Can Learn from around. Remember that Infrastruc- library building to better serve the Vegas, Disney, ABBA, Cirque du ture is critical, whether it be human needs of modern patrons. Soleil, and the Stones.” As one who or architectural. With changing — Lyn C. A. Gardner, Hampton works to promote the presence times, some libraries may find Public Library VL JANUARY–MARCH, 2008 VIRGINIA LIBRARIES PAGE 37

Faculty-Librarian Collaborations Facilitate Information Literacy Competence in the Large Classroom Setting

by Michelle L. Young

Abstract the courses. The knowledge is prehension of the course content, obtained through popular litera- the author and Dr. Kee Jeong Kim, he Information Literacy ture and mass media rather than assistant professor in the Depart- Collaboration Grants ini- research-based evidentiary materi- ment of Human Development at tiative at Virginia Tech als. Students seem to have a prob- Virginia Tech, developed a collab- Toffered to assist faculty in inte- lem distinguishing the difference orative information literacy grant grating information literacy skills between popular literature, trade project to determine if a collabora- into their courses while working publications, and peer-reviewed tive effort and new course content in collaboration with a college would impact the information lit- librarian. Utilizing a pre- and post- eracy of her students in this large ­survey method and integrated classroom setting. class instruction with a tradition- … this disconnect ally large class size and less than often reinforces The Project ideal teaching conditions, the author and her collaborator were false information or In an attempt to address student nonetheless able to promote and and faculty needs, the Informa- measure intellectual growth in the public myths …. tion Literacy Collaboration Grants classroom. This article will discuss initiative, a joint pilot project the project, the process, and the sponsored by the College of Liberal outcomes. research literature. In addition, Arts and Human Sciences and the this disconnect often reinforces Virginia Tech University Libraries, false information or public myths offered $5,000 to assist faculty in Introduction rather than leading to scientifi- integrating information literacy Introduction to Human Development cally proven evidence in the field. skills into their courses. The goal is a course offered yearly to 150 Alison Hine and her colleagues was to enhance an existing course undergraduate students at Virginia explain that “information literacy by integrating information literacy Tech. Nearly 55 percent of enrolled is essential to the study of any dis- concepts into the curriculum while students are human development cipline.”1 Teaching faculty alone or psychology majors. The pri- cannot easily cover both course mary goal of the course is to exam- topics and information literacy due Michelle L. Young ([email protected]) is ine major theories and empirical to time constraints, resources, and currently an assistant professor and col- research in biological, social, and a traditionally large class size. This lege librarian for the College of Liberal personality development from has been a recognized and growing Arts & Human Sciences at Virginia Tech. infancy through adolescence. concern among faculty and librar- She primarily works with the Graduate One challenge faced by faculty ians. Librarians and faculty tend to School of Education, Human Develop- teaching introductory psychology see unresponsiveness and indiffer- ment, and Communication Studies. Her or human development courses is ence in their students.2 professional interests involve technology that students come to class with In response to the need for integration, library clientele issues and a general knowledge of a variety improving students’ literacy skills instruction, leadership development, of topics that will be covered in in this course, along with com- and the future of the profession. PAGE 38 VIRGINIA LIBRARIES JANUARY–MARCH, 2008

working in collaboration with a dents were not graded on these sur- concrete understanding of cita- college librarian. veys, but given attendance credit tion components and the need for After being awarded the grant, for being present in class and tak- succinct formatting in a research the collaborative work began with a ing the assessments. They were not paper. class of 144 undergraduate students informed of the surveys as part of Finally, with such a large class (104 females and 40 males). Work- the curriculum so as to keep any number, Kim felt that having stu- ing in a traditional, auditorium­- additional stress or formal prepara- dents write a research paper would style classroom setting rather than tion related to the surveys out of be prohibitive in that grading all of the library, the team utilized a the purview of this research. the assignments would be almost pre- and post-information literacy impossible. Therefore, students survey to assess the initial compe- were required to submit an anno- Assignments tencies of the group and the final tated bibliography based on arti- competency outcomes of the class. Several assignments were distrib- cles they found using EBSCOhost’s Throughout the semester, three uted throughout the semester to Psych Info. This would allow Kim class sessions were presented by the increase the students’ engagement to see their skills with relation to librarian (author) to complement with the course content. Those the search, citations, and finally, the instructor’s course. The topics the choices they would make rela- covered at the library sessions were tive to their research. concept mapping (focusing on the … the collaborators Each assignment builds on the need for more terminology and suc- other, making learning possible. cinct structure of thought), citation were able to show a There was interconnection and flu- style (focusing on American Psy- idity throughout the course’s infor- chological Association [APA] cita- clear indication of mation literacy component. Thus, tion style), plagiarism, copyright, growth in the students’ the hope is to measure growth in a discussion of literature types, the student’s skill set by using an and advanced database search- information literacy identical post-survey instrument at ing focusing on peer-reviewed the end of the semester. literature (using EBSCO Publish- competence …. ing’s Psych Info database). It is also Findings noteworthy that the students were not moved to a computer­-filled related to information literacy By the close of the semester, the classroom while being instructed competencies were a concept table collaborators were able to show by the librarian and that the size exercise, a citation quiz, and an a clear indication of growth in was considerably larger than that annotated bibliography assign- the students’ information literacy of a traditional library research ment. competence based on a compari- class setting, which tends to be The concept table exercise was son of the pre- and post-survey under thirty students per session. created to assist the students in results as well as the overall quality understanding the relationship of library-related assignments and between terms and to help them course work submitted. These stan- The Assessment Survey expand their thought processes dards were measuring one’s ability The pre- and post-information lit- when thinking about a research to “recognize when information eracy survey consisted of ten mul- topic. The instruction on how to is needed and have the ability to tiple choice questions. These ques- achieve success in this assignment locate, evaluate, and use effec- tions were designed to measure the used an innocuous research term tively the needed information,” as students’ ability to identify and outside of the area of human devel- defined in the Information Literacy evaluate appropriate resources. opment so as to not lead students Competency Standards for Higher The goal of the pre-survey was to on the absolute path for topics in Education by the Association of obtain a baseline and then be able their field (which was their job). College and Research Libraries in to respond to the students’ literacy When students read citations, 2000.3 needs throughout the semester. they are often confused at the indi- When comparing pre- and post- The post-survey was used to gauge vidual components throughout. survey scores, we found that there the overall success of the informa- Therefore, a session was done on were areas where a significant lit- tion literacy component of the APA citation format. Then a quiz eracy growth was demonstrated. course. It is important to note that was administered as a take-home More than half of the class during the two surveys were identical. Stu- assignment to help form a better the pre-survey indicated a clear dis- JANUARY–MARCH, 2008 VIRGINIA LIBRARIES PAGE 39

connect between the differences of to previous years’ classes. She noted matic change in students’ profi- literature types. The same question, that the collaborative instruction ciency is shown. when asked on the post-­survey, was useful and that it would be showed that 93 percent of the stu- appropriate for future classes to Notes dents clearly understood the dif- continue a trend of higher infor- ferences. Another interesting point mation literacy competencies in 1. Alison Hine, Sandra Gollin, to note is the open-ended question the student body. Anita Ozols, Frank Hill, and about copyright and plagiarism. Michele Scoufis, “Embedding In the post-survey, students were Information Literacy in a Univer- Conclusion more likely to use the words, “pla- sity Subject through Collaborative giarism, copyright, and reference When utilizing the standards of Partnerships,” Psychology Learning list.” The connection seems to be information literacy as a guide, the and Teaching 2.2 (2002): 102–107. made through the coursework and students have shown, through the 2. Larkin, Judith E. and Harvey discussions about these issues and use of a pre- and post-survey assess- A. Pines, “Developing Informa- the related research project. When ment tool, the potential to acceler- tion Literacy and Research Skills in asked about which thesis statement ate when these concepts are intro- Introductory Psychology: A Case was best out of a selection of four, duced and integrated within the Study,” The Journal of Academic the students clearly showed that course. The collaboration between Librarianship 31.1 (2004): 40–45. they did not fully understand the teaching faculty and librarian was 3. The Association of College question or how to deal with its a success and offered students a and Research Libraries, Information topic. It is interesting to note that robust foundation in information Literacy Competency Standards for this area of work was not covered literacy competencies. The author Higher Education (Chicago: Ameri- in the course content. This sug- submits the notion that if students can Library Association, 2000). gests that the learning piece in carry forward these skills to the 4. Bruce, Christine S., “Informa- this research was the necessity of next level of coursework, similar tion Literacy as a Catalyst for Edu- exposure to content within the collaborations between teaching cational Change: A Background classroom setting. It is an indica- faculty and librarians would help Paper,” in Lifelong Learning: Whose tor that students are teachable. Had students attain a fluent level of Responsibility and What Is Your Con- there been coursework in this area, information literacy skills no mat- tribution?: Refereed Papers from the the assumption by the researchers ter the class size. As Christine S. 3rd International Lifelong Learning is that growth and/or understand- Bruce asserts, information literacy Conference, Yeppoon, Central Queen- ing would have been evident. Kim is essential for twenty-first century sland, Australia, 13–16 June 2004, reported a significant change in the living.4 The need for collaborative ed. Patrick A. Danaher (Rockhamp- quality of the overall coursework by work to achieve lifelong skills is ton, Qld.: Central Queensland Uni- this class of students as compared clearly evident when such a dra- versity Press, 2004), 8–19. VL

2008 VLA Annual Conference

“Libraries: Champions of Democracy” October 23–24, 2008 Williamsburg Marriott, Williamsburg, Virginia

Be sure to hold October 23–24 open for the 2008 VLA Conference. We’re anticipating some wonderful speakers and programs and lots of fun events. We look forward to the opportunity to share information and visit with our colleagues and friends. It should be an exciting time, and Williamsburg is always a wonderful place for the conference. See you there! PAGE 40 VIRGINIA LIBRARIES JANUARY–MARCH, 2008

A Partnership between a Public High School’s Health Sciences Academy and an Academic Health Sciences Library

by Ruth Smith, Brittany Horn, and Shelley Chitwood

The medical librarians have devel- ing, and cataloging. This article nity as the eastern region of Vir- oped and implemented a comprehen- will discuss the partnership with ginia known as Hampton Roads sive clinical rotation experience for BHSHSA, the development of the that includes the cities of Norfolk, the juniors and seniors of our acad- Clinical Rotation Program (CRP) Virginia Beach, Chesapeake, Ports- emy program. Their enthusiasm for at the EVMS Library, challenges mouth, Hampton, Newport News, their job and for the medical library encountered, long-term goals, and and Suffolk. EVMS remains an has instilled a new appreciation and the benefits and outcomes of this integral part of Hampton Roads respect for library science. unique program. with a deep dedication to the — Bayside High School Health health of the community. Through

Sciences Academy Coordinator1 the library’s Outreach Initiative, The Partnership EVMS librarians have provided the Established in 2001, BHSHA is a region’s public librarians and the ayside High School’s learning environment that offers public with free training on how to Health Sciences Academy an experience-rich curriculum to access health information. In the (BHSHSA) in Virginia 386 Virginia Beach students con- past five years, 3,000 people have BBeach, Virginia, and the Eastern sidering future careers in the medi- attended EVMS classes at Hampton Virginia Medical School (EVMS) cal sciences. According to the pro- Roads public libraries, senior cen- Edward E. Brickell Medical Sciences gram website, “[a] major learning ters, and health fairs on how to Library in Norfolk, Virginia, have component of the program is the find health information. been partners in a clinical rotation opportunity for students to attain program since 2005. BHSHSA pub- practical experience in the worksite lic school students have expressed as well as in academic settings.”2 Ruth Smith is the outreach services an interest in pursuing careers in The academy coordinator assigns coordinator at Eastern Virginia Medical the health field. Their curriculum the juniors and seniors three clini- School’s Edward E. Brickell Medical Sci- includes a clinical rotation com- cal rotations at various regional ences Library, Norfolk, Virginia. She can ponent in which they learn on site businesses, offices, hospitals, and be reached at [email protected]. The about potential career paths. At the academic institutions, including authors wish to thank their colleagues EVMS Library, groups of students the EVMS Brickell Library.3 “The at the EVMS Library, Bayside Health spend an afternoon observing goals for the clinical rotations are Sciences Academy students, and Luisa what librarians do, improving their for the students to see firsthand Zirkle, coordinator of the Health Sci- health literacy, and exploring the what a particular practice of inter- ences Academy. option of a career in librarianship. est involves.”4 Recruiting to a given Brittany Horn participated in this proj- Shadowing an EVMS librarian profession is not a stated goal of the ect while working as a reference and heightens students’ awareness of clinical rotation program. In 1973, clinical librarian at EVMS. She can be what services medical librarians EVMS was established in Norfolk, reached at [email protected]. provide. The students learn about Virginia. The mission statement the graduate level educational for the school is “improv[ing] the Shelley Chitwood participated in this requirements and diverse aspects of health of the community through project while working as a reference the job, such as literature searches, education, research, and patient and clinical librarian at EVMS. She can information management, teach- care.”5 EVMS defines the commu- be reached at [email protected]. JANUARY–MARCH, 2008 VIRGINIA LIBRARIES PAGE 41

Since 2005, 101 students have topics. The librarians’ first objec- dents, and community. Following participated in a clinical rotation at tive was to develop an agenda to the tour, the students received the EVMS Library. This rotation, a guide the content of the sessions. hands-on training in the use of first for the majority of students, is The librarians discussed their the library’s databases and online assigned based on academic stand- unique interests. The goal of this resources. At the request of the ing, teacher recommendations, planning phase was to give the BHSHSA Coordinator, the librar- and a record of positive behavior students a comparable experience, ians developed scenarios that dem- with no discipline issues. A clini- regardless of the librarian lead- onstrated the types of questions cal rotation at the EVMS Library ing the CRP. The librarians also received at the reference desk and allows students to familiarize devised a survey and a standard set allowed the students to solve hypo- themselves with library research of handouts, including brochures thetical cases. The skills required and apply new skills immediately on becoming medical librarians for these exercises included identi- to their school work. Students are and guides for evaluating online fying the information need, select- exposed to medical librarianship information resources. ing an appropriate resource, and as a potential career choice and Throughout the development using the resource to answer the gain an understanding of how phase of the project, the outreach question. The librarians used the librarians are a part of the health exercises to address plagiarism and care team. copyright issues. At the end of the session stu- Students are exposed dents and librarians exchanged Development of the Program to medical librarianship surveys. At the request of BHSHSA, The BHSHSA Coordinator con- librarians surveyed each student tacted the EVMS Library Outreach as a potential career regarding promptness, appropri- Coordinator in 2005 to invite ateness of attire, and participation librarians to host clinical rotations. choice …. in discussions. The librarians sent The Library Management team completed surveys to the BHSHSA viewed rotations as an opportu- Coordinator. The students com- nity both to further the mission of coordinator maintained an open pleted an anonymous survey devel- EVMS by partnering with a com- dialogue with the academy coordi- oped by EVMS librarians. Students munity institution and to impact nator to answer any questions that were surveyed about their percep- the students’ health literacy, influ- came up during the development tion of the CRP, including how the ence preconceived ideas of what meetings. Face-to-face meetings experience impacted their percep- being a librarian is and what a and a partnership agreement fos- tion of the field of librarianship, librarian’s job duties and educa- tered the relationship between the whether they would consider tional background are, impact two institutions. The partnership librarianship as a potential career the long-term use of libraries, and agreement clarified each institu- choice, and the impact of the CRP recruit future librarians. tion’s role and provided a method on their ability to find health- There were no official guide- for accountability. Issues addressed related information. lines in the beginning of the included coordinating schedules library’s participation in the CRP. and providing prompt responses Benefits and Outcomes The EVMS Library Outreach Coor- to questions. The Brickell Library dinator met with students for a and BHSHSA had to determine The purpose of the project was tour of the library, discussion of procedures to handle unexpected to further the mission of EVMS librarianship, and brief instruc- absences and tardiness. Open com- by partnering with a community tion session on health information munication between the librarians institution, improving health lit- resources. After a year of working and BHSHSA remains the key to eracy and student use of libraries, with the students, the outreach success for the program. influencing preconceived notions coordinator saw the opportunity to The clinical rotation involved of librarians and libraries, and formalize the program and expand each librarian meeting with two to recruiting future librarians. Stu- it to include other librarians. Two six students at a time. The session dent survey responses indicate that reference librarians along with the usually began with a tour of the their perception of librarianship outreach coordinator began meet- library, during which the librarian changed for the positive (97%). ing with the goal of creating a discussed facts about the medical When asked in the survey, “After structured and inclusive two-hour school and the library’s purpose today’s experience, do you con- program covering many complex in serving the faculty, staff, stu- sider the field of librarianship as a PAGE 42 VIRGINIA LIBRARIES JANUARY–MARCH, 2008

potential career choice?,” 53.125% ing with librarians could benefit Bayside High School Health Sci- said maybe, a substantial increase them. While 34% of the students ences Academy and the EVMS from 3.125% before the experi- rated as excellent their ability to Library serves as an example for ence. When asked about the most find information to meet school others wishing to develop a similar important thing learned during the and personal needs, a resounding program to increase health literacy library rotation, the students were majority, 97%, felt their ability to among high school students and struck by the ubiquity of informa- find health-related information bolster the relationship between tion, the significant role librarians increased after the training they the library and the community. play in providing medical informa- tion to health care professionals, and the new knowledge of the edu- Notes cational requirements and range of “Though I had my job duties required in librarianship. doubts about going to 1. Luisa Zirkle, email message to One student responded, “Though I author, February 20, 2007. had my doubts about going to the the library, it was the 2. Virginia Beach City Public library, it was the total opposite Schools, “Bayside’s Health Sciences of what I expected. I learned so total opposite of Academy,” Welcome to Bayside much about [the librarian’s] job what I expected.” High School, “Home of the Marlins,” and about helpful ways to research http://www.baysidehs.vbschools. health topics and how to access/ com/openingpage.htm. use the library from home as well 3. Eastern Virginia Medical as when I’m there. I now have a received from the librarians. Of School, “Edward E. Brickell Medi- different look on librarians…. This the 101 students who have expe- cal Sciences Library,” Eastern Vir- was a unique experience and I rienced a clinical rotation at the ginia Medical School official site, really appreciate [being given] the EVMS Library, two are considering http://www.evms.edu/evmslib/ opportunity.” careers in librarianship. BHSHSA index.html. All students expressed the feel- will conduct a long-term follow-up 4. Bonnie Alder, email message ing that their ability to find health and will report the students’ career to author, January 19, 2005. information had improved and choices and the impact of the CRP 5. Eastern Virginia Medical their perceptions of librarianship experience on their future library School, “Masthead,” Eastern Virginia had changed for the better. The and information resource use. The Medical School home page, http:// students learned how work- successful partnership between www.evms.edu/index.html. VL

PARAPROFESSIONAL 16th Annual FORUM Conference Founded in 1979 The Many Faces of Libraries: Fearlessly Evolving to Meet User Needs

Sunday, May 18, 2008 – Tuesday, May 20, 2008 Holiday Inn Select/Koger South Conference Center, Richmond, Virginia JANUARY–MARCH, 2008 VIRGINIA LIBRARIES PAGE 43

Virginia Reviews

Reviews prepared by staff members of the Library of Virginia Sara B. Bearss, Editor

Woody Holton. Unruly government. When the document Americans and the Origins was presented to the democratic of the Constitution. New masses, they exerted their influ- York: Hill and Wang, a ence one more time to pressure the Division of Farrar, Straus and newly created United States gov- Giroux, 2007. xi + 370 pp. ernment to include a bill of rights ISBN 0-8090-8061-3. $27.00 that would protect the rights of (hardcover). individuals from federal interfer- In 1913, Charles Beard pub- … the Founders hoped ence. lished An Economic Interpretation of In Unruly Americans, Holton the Constitution, which contended to reverse what they again demonstrates (as he did in that the federal constitutional con- his previous work, Forced Found- vention was not an experiment perceived as a dangerous ers: Indians, Debtors, Slaves, and in forming a republican govern- slide into democracy. the Making of the American Revolu- ment but rather that the Founding tion in Virginia [1999]) that history Fathers intended to design a gov- HOLTON REVIEW is not merely the great deeds of ernment that would protect their great men. Men and women, often economic interests. Over the sub- lumped under the term of “the sequent ninety years, Beard’s thesis masses” or “middling and lower has often been disputed. Consen- ers) wanted debts paid, and this classes,” could and did have a great sus and republican-school histo- desire often resulted in the raising effect on events, in this case the rians have presented a portrait of of taxes. Small farmers and debtors formation of the Constitution and the Founders as men motivated by preferred debt relief in the form the Bill of Rights. an altruistic desire to form a good of lower taxes and paper money. — reviewed by Trenton E. Hizer, government. In Unruly Americans These people demonstrated (at senior finding aids archivist and the Origins of the Constitution times violently) in order to force (a finalist for the National Book state legislatures to adopt measures Award in nonfiction), Woody to provide relief. Elites feared that Jon Kukla. Mr. Jefferson’s Holton revisits and revises Beard’s if unchecked, these democratic Women. New York: Alfred theory and adds the twist that the movements would damage the eco- A. Knopf, 2007. 279 pp. Founders hoped to reverse what nomic growth of the nation. ISBN-13: 978-1-4000-4324-8. they perceived as a dangerous slide Therefore the men who met in $26.95 (hardcover). into democracy. Philadelphia in 1787 designed a The volumes dedicated to the To oversimplify and understate federal government that would life of Thomas Jefferson fill librar- Holton’s thesis is a necessary evil provide a measure of protection ies around the world. Yet little has in a short review. After the Revolu- against vacillating state legisla- been written about the man who tion, the American economy was tures and ultimately the people of wrote “all men are created equal” in a mess. Many states and the the United States. In a gesture of and his attitudes about women. In national government had issued conciliation, the new Constitution bonds to raise money to pay for provided some debt and tax relief the war. Bondholders, creditors, for the common man; however, Sara B. Bearss is senior editor of the and those people considered the it limited the ability of the com- Dictionary of Virginia Biography, pub- elite (including most of the Found- mon man to influence the federal lished by the Library of Virginia. PAGE 44 VIRGINIA LIBRARIES JANUARY–MARCH, 2008

Mr. Jefferson’s Women, Jon Kukla, made Jefferson uncomfortable. son’s thoughts about women and former director of the Patrick Henry Abigail Adams challenged Jefferson their roles in society. Memorial Foundation, examines concerning women’s roles in the — reviewed by John G. Deal, editor, the Founding Father’s conceptions new American government, and Dictionary of Virginia Biography of women and their place in soci- the French noblewomen’s involve- ety by exploring significant rela- ment in revolutionary politics rein- tionships Jefferson had throughout forced his view that women should Richard R. Duncan. his life. Kukla concludes that Jeffer- not insert themselves in the public Beleaguered Winchester: son mistrusted and feared women sphere. A Virginia Community at but could also be predatory toward In sharp contrast, Sally Hem- War, 1861–1865. Baton them. He maintained a patriarchal ings did not possess autonomy. Rouge: Louisiana State University belief system in which women, as Kukla concludes that Jefferson Press, 2007. xix + 380 pp. ISBN well as children and slaves, were did, in fact, father Hemings’s six 0-8071-3217-9. $40.00 (hardcover). inferior beings. Confining their children, based on DNA evidence, Students of the Civil War in roles to motherhood and domes- the occasions Jefferson resided at Virginia know that Winchester, ticity, Jefferson saw no place for strategically situated in the lower women in the public sphere and Shenandoah Valley, was regarded did not seek to expand their educa- as a prize by both sides and fought tional opportunities or legal rights. This predatory nature over many times. It was won and Kukla divides the book into manifested itself in lost and won again by contesting chapters concerning important armies perhaps more than any women in Jefferson’s life. Rebecca Jefferson’s attempted other Southern community. Usu- Lewis Burwell was his first love, but ally the story is told within the she declined the nineteen-year-old seduction of Elizabeth context of the larger struggle for Jefferson’s marriage proposal. This Moore Walker …. dominance in the Valley of Vir- rejection began years of crippling ginia, and as the narrative unfolds headaches and, Kukla contends, KUKLA REVIEW we track the armies to and from hardened in Jefferson a misogynis- Winchester. We learn something tic and predatory attitude toward of the inhabitants along the way, women. This predatory nature Monticello related to the concep- but mostly focus on the fighting manifested itself in Jefferson’s tion of her children, the material men, following them to their fate attempted seduction of Elizabeth privileges the Hemings family on a hillside or by some stream. Moore Walker, the wife of a life- enjoyed, and the fact that all of her In Richard R. Duncan’s account, long friend. Jefferson’s marriage children attained their freedom. however, this Valley town is center in 1772 to the widowed Martha Because Hemings was by definition stage, and rightly so. Through four Wayles Skelton began the happiest under Jefferson’s control, fulfill- years of war, townspeople endured years of his life. She fulfilled the ing domestic duties and his sexual some seventy skirmishes and three duties of motherhood, domesticity, needs, this exploitative relationship major battles. The town was occu- and subordination, but her death was the most extreme example of pied dozens of times by alternat- in 1782 left Jefferson grief-stricken Jefferson’s attitude toward women. ing Union and Confederate forces. for weeks. He lamented this loss of Incorporating extensive primary Each newly established military self-control, which demonstrated sources such as diaries, correspon- regime appealed to or traumatized that even married women could be dence, and account books, Kukla a portion of the populace, depend- dangerous. makes his research accessible to a ing on their politics. Independent women were espe- wide audience by balancing his- Initially reluctant to leave the cially hazardous, however, as evi- torical analysis and storytelling. Union, most white townspeople denced by his relationship with He provides a short biographical later embraced Southern national- Maria Hadfield Cosway, a married sketch of each woman and details ism, but a small minority of con- Englishwoman sixteen years his the trajectory of her involvement ditional Unionists rejected radical junior. Traveling about Paris for a with Jefferson. Perceptively, Kukla secession. As elsewhere, the crisis brief time in 1786, they enjoyed also places these relationships in divided friends and families. Thus what Kukla surmises was a flir- the cultural contexts of patriarchy, the instability created by frequent tatious friendship rather than a honor, self-control, and mascu- occupation and reoccupation romantic affair. Even in platonic linity, all of which are critically constituted over time a peculiar situations, women of autonomy important in understanding Jeffer- problem for the 4,400 souls who JANUARY–MARCH, 2008 VIRGINIA LIBRARIES PAGE 45

lived in Winchester, of whom campaign relieved Winchester for embarked on a war of devastation. about 1,400 were free and enslaved a time, but the Confederacy’s grip He enjoyed a series of victories African-Americans. A guarded on the area did not last. Begin- over his Confederate opponents, tolerance developed among the ning in January 1863, Winchester beginning with the Third Battle of white people, especially among the came under the control of Major Winchester in September, which men, including a disinclination to General Robert H. Milroy, whose effectively ended Confederate pres- parade one’s loyalties in public and attitude toward townspeople was ence in the Valley. a discreet reserve about boasting of revealed in a letter to his wife in Duncan’s study relates an victory or bewailing defeat, for who which he stated, “I feel a strong intriguing story of growing Fed- knew whether the next command- disposition to play the tyrent [sic] eral repression and intimidation ing officer would be wearing blue among these traitors.” His regime, toward ordinary citizens while or gray? Such public displays could harsh and confrontational, lasted at the same time describing the fuel hostility and lead to arrest and five months, during which time he arrogant pride exhibited by seces- imprisonment. White women, on earned the undying animosity of sionists that, in the end, aided and the other hand, were provocative many townspeople. abetted the harsh measures taken and quick to show their disdain for against them. It is a portrait of ter- everything “Yankee.” rible destruction: at war’s end, an During the first year the glam- estimated two hundred homes in our of war faded as Winchester’s To the very end, the and around the town had been facilities were overwhelmed, first town was a microcosm demolished or burned, and along by the sick and dying from the Main Street another one hundred First Battle of Manassas and later of the national clash of were uninhabitable, having been by the casualties from Thomas J. used as stables or slaughterhouses. “Stonewall” Jackson’s operations ideas and arms. It is also a portrait of the town’s during the winter of 1861–1862, lively Unionist faction, which sur- DUNCAN REVIEW which ended with Jackson’s evacu- vived to celebrate the surrender ation of the town. The stage was at Appomattox Court House and then set for humiliation. Federals mourn the death of Abraham Lin- descended on Winchester, creat- Beginning in 1864, as the war coln. To the very end, the town ing anxiety among secessionists, in Virginia concentrated along the was a microcosm of the national who would soon have their first Rapidan-Rappahannock line, mili- clash of ideas and arms. It is a taste of martial law, but delight- tary operations in the Valley were remarkable story well told, admira- ing white loyalists and blacks who reduced to cavalry raids and gue- bly researched, and deserving of a welcomed the Union flag flying rilla activities. Brief occupations of wide readership. once again above the courthouse. Winchester by both sides became — reviewed by Donald W. Gunter, Angry outbursts erupted between more frequent. As elsewhere, scar- editor, Dictionary of Virginia Biog- a divided citizenry and between city, inflation, and devalued Con- raphy residents and the occupying army. federate currency increased the The streets were filled with soldiers burden everyone felt. By spring crowding local folk off the path- the Shenandoah Valley was once Gordon C. Rhea. In the ways, and a wave of pillaging fur- again a focal point of Federal strat- Footsteps of Grant and Lee: ther inflamed townspeople against egists. On May 1, Major General The Wilderness through their conquerors. Business slowed Franz Sigel arrived in Winchester Cold Harbor. Photography as townspeople stayed away. Slave at the head of his army. Unionists by Chris E. Heisey. Baton Rouge: owners deeply resented the protec- exulted; secessionists despaired. Louisiana State University Press, tive attitude of the army toward Their unhappiness deepened 2007. viii + 134 pp. ISBN-13: blacks; little or no effort was made when Major General David Hunter 978-0-8071-3269-2. $39.95 (hard- to prevent slaves from escaping replaced Sigel. Labeling civilians as cover). or to return them to their mas- spies, Hunter punished them for After the Confederates’ devas- ters. Most revolting for some was the actions of Southern partisans tating loss at Gettysburg, Pennsyl- the arrival of a regiment of black and made no distinction between vania, in July 1863, General Robert troops, an event that produced regular Confederate partisans, E. Lee and his Army of Northern “inexpressible horror” in one lady irregular units, and outlaws. Con- Virginia retreated to Virginia in of the town. ditions worsened when Major Gen- order for Lee to “nourish his army Jackson’s Shenandoah Valley eral Phil Sheridan took over and back to strength.” At the same PAGE 46 VIRGINIA LIBRARIES JANUARY–MARCH, 2008

time, Union Major General George around Petersburg. While Grant ower with seven children in 1857. G. Meade did not follow up his failed to end the war in May 1864, Their son, George, was born in victory at Gettysburg by destroy- he finally won it after he broke 1858, and Herbert followed in ing Lee’s army and capturing through Lee’s lines on April 2, 1861. She was pained to see the Richmond. With the war in the 1865, and accepted Lee’s surrender younger boys treating the war as western part of the Confederacy at Appomattox Court House seven a game. In January 1863 she wrote moving toward a United States vic- days later. in her diary that young George tory, President Abraham Lincoln — reviewed by Emily J. Salmon, was playing war every day. He decided to bring the successful senior copy editor conducted battles with Herbert western theater commander Lieu- in which he beat the Yankees and tenant General Ulysses S. Grant to captured prisoners, pretended his the east to command all the Union Stacey Jean Klein. Margaret rag dolls were wounded soldiers, armies and “work his magic” there. Junkin Preston, Poet of the and hobbled around pretending What followed was the Overland Confederacy: A Literary Life. that he had lost a leg. campaign between the Wilder- Columbia, S.C.: University Margaret had enjoyed a career ness in Orange County and Cold as a published author in magazines Harbor in Hanover County, which and newspapers before her mar- ultimately led to Lee’s surrender at riage, but her husband disapproved Appomattox Court House. He … pretended his rag of her literary pursuits. When John Author Gordon C. Rhea has dolls were wounded Preston urged her to pick up her made a careful, well-researched pen in the service of the Confeder- study of the Overland campaign soldiers, and hobbled acy, Margaret was willing to do so and published four well-received not only because Virginia was her monographs on each succeed- around pretending that adopted home, but also because it ing battle of the campaign, with he had lost a leg. gave her an opportunity to resume a fifth and final volume to follow. her dormant writing career. This His In the Footsteps of Grant and Lee KLEIN REVIEW book skillfully argues that Confed- distills the various battles fought erate nationalism unintentionally during the campaign into a highly allowed such women as Margaret readable narrative illustrated with Preston to expand their roles in the contemporaneous drawings and of South Carolina Press, 2007. xvi + public sphere, because the needs of images, battle maps, and beautiful 137 pp. ISBN-13: 978-1-57003-704-7. the new nation outweighed soci- modern photographs of the sites of $34.95 (hardcover). ety’s concerns about proper and battle as they appear today. Rhea Margaret Junkin Preston was appropriate gender roles. explains that Grant and Lee were overwhelmed. The Pennsylvania Despite her fame as the poet very well matched in planning native was living in Lexington, of the Confederacy, Margaret was for battle and in compensating Virginia, as the Civil War raged ambivalent about the war. She with new tactics when their plans around her. Her husband, Major feared the violence that came with went awry, and describes how each John Preston, a Latin professor at it; she worried about her relatives man maneuvered throughout the Virginia Military Institute, was a in the North; and she felt incapa- campaign to thwart the other’s staunch Confederate. Her sister, ble of shielding her children from goals. On the one hand, Lee can Eleanor, had married a math- want. One night, she could feed be said to have won the Overland ematics professor there, Thomas the boys only crackers for dinner, campaign in terms of defeating J. “Stonewall” Jackson, and died and she had to make them clothes Grant’s immediate aim of destroy- following childbirth. Margaret’s out of her old aprons. The one pos- ing Lee’s army and capturing Rich- life seemed at once to reflect the itive change the war brought into mond. On the other hand, Grant nation’s Civil War and the tre- her life was professional success. never stopped fighting as all of his mendous loss that accompanied it. Beechenbrook: A Rhyme of the War, predecessors had done after each One of her stepsons lost an arm in published in 1865 and successfully battle to regroup and resupply. He battle and another died at Second reprinted after the war, depicted pushed on instead from loss to loss Manassas. Meanwhile, Margaret’s the heroism of a Southern woman without ceasing and ultimately father, the Presbyterian minister whose husband dies fighting for succeeded in driving Lee from George Junkin, and her sister, Julia, the Confederacy. While Preston Orange and Spotsylvania Counties fled Virginia for Philadelphia. was devoted to the war effort in past Richmond and into siege lines Margaret had married a wid- public, in private she suffered torn JANUARY–MARCH, 2008 VIRGINIA LIBRARIES PAGE 47

loyalties and conflict about the useful and interesting addition to ing Southern boosters believed struggle. their collections. would supplant the Old South. This slim book reminds the — reviewed by Jennifer Davis Much like the explosively grow- reader just how hard it was for McDaid, deputy coordinator, State ing mining and cattle towns of Margaret Junkin Preston to write: Historical Records Advisory Board the West, Roanoke had to deal struggling with failing eyesight, with an unstable economy; filthy she often dictated her poetry to streets and streams; crime; broth- her stepdaughter, Elizabeth. She Rand Dotson. Roanoke, els; saloons; underpaid, hardwork- faced the disapproval of her hus- Virginia, 1882–1912: Magic ing laborers; and an ambitious, band, as well as his expectations City of the New South. upwardly mobile middle class and that she run a large house, fulfill Knoxville: University of social elite. Add volatile relations her duties as a mother, and do a Tennessee Press, 2007. xxi + 338 pp. between the races, and it is not considerable amount of house- ISBN-10: 1-57233-592-0. ISBN-13: surprising that the new city, char- work. Among the “thousand petty 978-1-57233-592-9. $42.00 (hard- acterized as magic because of its housewifely distractions” Margaret cover). speedy development, had lynch- listed in her diary were cooking ings and race riots, labor unrest, and cleaning, varnishing furni- severe unemployment during the ture, sewing, mending the carpets, depression of the 1890s, and a civic making pickles and preserves, and Roanoke appeared politics deeply divided by earnings entertaining guests. Despite these to signal the arrival disparities and between working- domestic cares, Margaret Junkin class people and those with bour- Preston successfully challenged the of the New South …. geois values. barriers against female authorship This fine study of Roanoke high- in the South by redefining woman- DOTSON REVIEW lights the effects on urban Virgin- hood and the purpose of her writ- ians of changing economic and ing. She made a calculated compro- social conditions during the final mise, perpetuating a housewifely After the little farming town years of the nineteenth century image while pursuing a publishing of Big Lick, Virginia, became a and the first years of the twentieth. career. bustling railroad center, its popu- Elite white urban reformers, like Preston’s letters, diaries, note- lation grew from about 1,000 their counterparts elsewhere in the books, scrapbooks, and sketchbooks people in 1882 to about 35,000 in country during the Progressive Era, tell the story of her life. Stacey Jean 1910 and about 50,000 in 1920. attempted to ameliorate the prob- Klein has done an admirable job of The city’s people struggled with lems of rapid urbanization — some- mining the sources, bringing the unplanned development of streets, times successfully, sometimes poet to life, and placing her in the inadequate city services, a ris- not. If the dramatic experience of context of recent scholarship in ing population of poor black and Roanoke was unique among Vir- women’s history. Margaret Junkin white people looking for work, the ginia cities as a consequence of Preston (1820–1897) was more than immigration of Northern business its remarkably rapid growth, the Stonewall Jackson’s sister-in-law. and industrial men looking for opportunities that the residents of Her poetry reflects her response opportunities, and the domina- Roanoke exploited and the prob- to the violently changing South, tion of the economy by a small lems that they faced were the same while her career as an author paved number of large manufacturing that residents of other Virginia cit- the way for Southern women who and railroad-related companies. ies experienced in less dramatic or followed. Libraries with collections Together with Birmingham, a con- in less immediately conspicuous in Southern literature, women’s temporary industrial boomtown, ways. history, and Civil War history will Roanoke appeared to signal the — reviewed by Brent Tarter, editor, find this illustrated volume to be a arrival of the New South that lead- Dictionary of Virginia Biography VL PAGE 48 VIRGINIA LIBRARIES JANUARY–MARCH, 2008

VLA Newsletter

Have some news you’d like to share? Please remember to pass it LISjobs.com an underserved niche, devoted entirely on to Editor Kevin Tapp (ktapp@ to career and professional develop- Launches Online ment issues for librarians and infor- radford.edu) for the VLA Newslet- mation professionals. The newsletter and column content are accessible at: ter. The newsletter is just the place Community http://www.lisjobs.com/career_trends/. Rachel Singer Gordon shares: “I’m so for information about what’s hap- LISjobs.com, the largest free library pleased to bring Kim on board, and career portal on the Internet, is pleased to watch the Library Career People pening in the library community to announce the launch of its new VLA column evolve in its new blog format. online community for librarians. I look forward to hearing others’ opin- in Virginia and the Southeast. Devoted entirely to career development ions across the LISjobs.com online Announcements of VLA events, Newsletter and job hunting, these forums provide a community.” space for librarians, LIS students, library LISjobs.com, launched in 1996, pro- news concerning VLA and its ISSN 0896-0720 workers, and information profession- vides free library-related job listings to VOLUME XXI, NUMBER 7 als to discuss professional development both employers and job seekers, as well units, and VLA business are all OCTOBER-NOVEMBER- issues: http://lisjobs.com/forum/. as related services from resume postings DECEMBER 2007 “I’m excited to be able to offer this to career development blogs. great material to share through space for collaboration and discussion,” LISjobs.com: http://www.lisjobs.com the newsletter. Be sure you get the says Rachel Singer Gordon, webmaster, Online community: http://www.lisjobs. LISjobs.com. “As librarians, we know com/forum word out to all who might be inter- that we work and learn best in commu- Info Career Trends newsletter: http:// nity — I look forward to watching the www.lisjobs.com/career_trends/ forums grow.” Current forum modera- ested! Send your submissions to VIRGINIA LIBRARY ASSOCIATION Contact: Rachel Singer Gordon, rachel@ tors include: [email protected] by the 15th of lisjobs.com Michael Stephens, LIS schools — Rachel Singer Gordon, Webmaster, the month preceding the month of Jess Bruckner, Jumpstart your career LISjobs.com Meredith Farkas, Professional the desired issue. Calendar development and participation VIRGINIA LIBRARY ASSOCIATION Susanne Markgren, Talking tenure Library of Virginia To sample past issues of the VLA ALA 2007 Midwinter Meeting Kim Dority, Professional writing Newsletter online, visit http://www. Seattle, WA Sophie Brookover, Work/life balance Board Meeting 1/19–1/24/2007 In recent related developments, Info vla.org/pubs.html#newsletter. Career Trends, LISjobs.com’s professional The quarterly meeting of the Library Remember that the editor reserves VLA Council Meeting development newsletter, has moved to of Virginia Board meeting was held on Feb 1, 2008 the Wordpress platform to better serve Monday, 5 November at the Library. the right to edit all material sub- JMRL Northside Branch, its subscribers. Its long-time career Q&A Following preliminary agenda items by Charlottesville columnists, Tiffany Allen and Susanne Board Chair Mary G. Haviland, Bette mitted except official statements Markgren, have moved to their own Dillehay, Chair of VLA’s Legislative PLA 2008 — PLA’s 12th National blog, and author/entrepreneur Kim Committee briefed Library of Virginia initiated and approved by the asso- Conference Dority joins in with her new monthly Board members on VLA’s legislative March 25, 2008 column on “Rethinking Information agenda for 2008 and discussed the ciation and its units. Signed articles Careers.” DVD provided by Gale, the partnership Talking (about) Books: Off the Info Career Trends continues to fill group, the grass “tops” initiative, and do not necessarily reflect approval Record of the association. Ultimate respon- Presented by: VLA Region V Committee. sibility for the contents of the VLA Thursday, April 3, 2008. 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Newsletter rests with the editor. Bull Run Regional Library; Manassas, VA Registration Fee: $15 (includes continental breakfast) Questions — contact jschwab@ pwcgov.org or karim.khan@ loudoun.gov

Tidewater area librarians pose with Ella Jenkins, the First Lady of Children’s Music and Grammy-winning artist, at the Norfolk Marriott.