VOLUME 68, NO. 1 SPRING 2004 Page 1 Vol. 68, No. 1, Spring 2004 Mississippi Libraries
Mississippi Library Association P.O. Box 20448 • Jackson, MS 39289-1448 PHONE: 601-352-3917 • FAX: 601-352-4240 Office Hours: 9-1 M, T, Th, F Email: [email protected] Executive Secretary: Mary Julia Anderson MLA Web site: http://www.misslib.org Web Master: Molly Signs
A Quarterly Publication of the ISSN 0194-388X Mississippi Library Association ©2004
EDITORIAL STAFF Contents CO-EDITORS...... Kathryn R. Davis Box 5128, USMGC Library President’s Page ...... 1 The University of Southern Mississippi, Gulf Coast Long Beach, MS 39560-2699 (W) 228-867-8760 One Jackson One Book FAX: 228-867-2650 Ward Sumner...... 3 email: [email protected]
Donnelle Scott ANNUAL EVENTS: Keeping the Library in the Public Eye Box 5128, USMGC Library Prima Plauché...... 6 The University of Southern Mississippi, Gulf Coast Long Beach, MS 39560-2699 (W) 228-867-8767 Seeking A New Measure of Service with LibQUAL+™ FAX: 228-867-2650 Kay L. Wall...... 8 email: [email protected]
COPY EDITOR...... Kathleen L. Wells MLA Legislative Day 2004 ...... 11 The University of Southern Mississippi email: [email protected] The MLA Public Relations Awards...... 12 A Look at Legislative Day 2004 ...... 13 MLA 2004 Officer Nominees...... 14 ADVERTISING EDITOR ...... Kaylene Behm The University of Southern Mississippi Call for Poster Sessions ...... 16 email: [email protected] The Web in Review ...... 17 MLA 2004 Conference Preview...... 19
REPORTER...... Allisa Beck News Briefs ...... 20 The University of Southern Mississippi, Gulf Coast About Books...... 21 email: [email protected] 2004 MLA Conference Committees ...... 22 About Children’s Books...... 23 COLUMN EDITORS...... Rick Torgerson MLA Executive Board Minutes ...... 24 Delta State University email: [email protected]
1 1 On the Cover: The cover artwork is “reader,” 14 ⁄2" x 11 ⁄4" acrylic on paper, by Hattiesburg artist Amy Giust. Peggy Price In the collection of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Mullins. Ms. Giust’s work will be featured on the covers of Missis- The University of Southern Mississippi sippi Libraries for Volume 68. email: [email protected]
Steven Turner The University of Southern Mississippi email: [email protected]
BOOK REVIEW EDITOR...... Tracy Englert The University of Southern Mississippi email: [email protected]
CHILDREN’S BOOK REVIEW EDITOR...... Rosemary Chance Mississippi Libraries is a publication of the Mississippi Library Association, and is indexed in Library Litera- The University of Southern Mississippi ture. The articles, reports and features herein represent the viewpoints of their respective authors and are not email: [email protected] necessarily the official opinions of the Association. Printed with soy ink on recycled paper. Subscription Rate: $16.00 per year ($4.00 per issue), $24.00 per year outside the U.S., free to MLA mem- MLA PUBLICITY bers. Back issues available from University Microfilms International. Advertising rates on request to Advertising COMMITTEE, CHAIR...... Mary Perkins Editor. Deadline for advertising copy is the tenth of the month preceding month of publication. Hancock County Library System Email: [email protected] Manuscripts must be typescripts produced as a computer file document, Times New Roman font, 12 pt., in MSWord 95 or greater, WordPerfect or ASCII text. Send file as an attachment or submit the file on a floppy disk via surface mail. Manuscripts must be received by the editor by the following deadlines: Spring, February INDEXER...... Shirlene Stogner 2nd; Summer, May 2nd; Fall, August 2nd; and Winter, November 2nd. Photographs must be black and The University of Southern Mississippi white, glossy finish. email: [email protected] NOTICE: Dues must be paid by March 1 in order to vote in election of officers and to receive the Spring issue of Mississippi Libraries. Page 3 Vol. 68, No. 1, Spring 2004 Mississippi Libraries One Jackson One Book By Ward Sumner sible to even more residents: in book President, Jackson Friends of the Library form, in unabridged audiocassettes, in an For the Jackson/Hinds Library System HBO movie version, and as a play. In [email protected] addition, there was a short story by Mr. Gaines, “The Sky is Gray,” which also Editors’ Note: The Jackson Friends of had the theme of how to become a man the Library was the recipient of the 2004 and was appropriate for middle school MLA Golden Book Award for the ONE students. The library system incorporated JACKSON ONE BOOK Program. The this story into its Summer Reading Pro- Golden Book Award recognizes the most gram in June and July. outstanding volunteer effort by an indi- vidual or group deemed to have con- OJOB PROJECT tributed most to library awareness in the DEVELOPMENT past or present. A diverse and representative 80+ member Steering Committee was recruit- The Jackson Friends of the Library ed, composed of educational, govern- (JFOL), the volunteer support group for mental, service, cultural, religious, and the eight city branches of the Jackson/ business volunteers from all areas of the Hinds Library System, initiated a city-wide city. The Steering Committee members reading project in 2003 called ONE divided into twelve working committees JACKSON ONE BOOK. It encouraged which developed and implemented all the Jackson area students and adults to read ONE JACKSON ONE BOOK Banner at the corner plans and programs for ONE JACKSON the same book at the same time during a of Pearl & State Streets in downtown Jackson lists ONE BOOK. The members worked fall activities. six-month period, April through October, closely with the city administration, the to share this common experience by concept on the Internet, brought it before library system, public and private schools coming together and discussing it, and the full Board in the fall of 2002, and the and colleges, bookstores, churches, etc. then to have the opportunity to hear a Board directed a committee of seven to to insure widespread community support. noted author. investigate further. After three months, Over two-thirds of the Jackson Friends This was an ambitious effort, and we this “core committee” recommended that Board members served on the Steering are proud that this project met its goals of the Board initiate such a project for Jack- Committee, and the President served as promoting reading/literacy and use of the son, develop a Steering Committee that Co-Chair for the project. Jackson/Hinds Library system; bringing could plan and implement this project, the community together by providing and serve as treasurer and one of the OJOB PROJECT PROGRAMMING forums for candid discussions of issues of sponsors for ONE JACKSON ONE In order to make A Lesson Before common interest among diverse groups BOOK. Dying easily accessible, the ONE JACK- of Jackson citizens; involving volunteer The core group also recommended SON ONE BOOK project purchased for leaders representative of the community the book selection for 2003, an award- the eight city library branches 240 copies in the planning, development and imple- winning novel A Lesson Before Dying by of the book, 40 unabridged audio tapes, mentation of the project; and bringing a internationally acclaimed African-Ameri- and 40 HBO movie video tapes, and the renowned author to meet with and speak can author Ernest J. Gaines. This particu- J/HLS purchased additional copies of the to area students and adults. lar book had been a popular choice for book, video, and audio for the county citywide reading projects across the U.S. branches. One of the working committees OJOB BACKGROUND because it has themes of universal interest developed and had printed a “Tool Kit’ to The ONE JACKSON ONE BOOK and concern: how to become a man; the help individuals and groups understand project was the first of its type for Jackson importance of family and faith, and of and discuss the book. Tool Kits were and for Mississippi. A program started in education and ethics; the role of strong given to library patrons who checked out Seattle in 1998, “If All of Seattle Read women; and problems of discrimination the book, audio or video from any the Same Book,” was the model, and this and mental retardation related to capital branch; and were also given to those who initial project has been successfully intro- punishment and the criminal justice sys- purchased the book from three of the duced in over 165 communities in 45 tem. large Jackson bookstores. All information other states. This novel was also an excellent on the OJOB project as well as the Tool A member of the Board of Directors choice because it was available in a vari- Kit could be found and downloaded from of the Jackson Friends discovered this ety of formats, which made it more acces- the J/HLS Web site, www.jhlibrary.com. Mississippi Libraries Vol. 68, No. 1, Spring 2004 Page 4
Two other working committees devel- and the Old Capitol oped volunteer rosters of 25 speakers Museum. In addition, and 12 experienced discussion group there were numerous leaders whose services were available to discussion groups held club and church groups, civic organiza- by local community tions, etc. upon request (form in back of clubs, homeowners’ the Tool Kit and on the Web site). associations, book In order to further promote the book clubs, and church and area residents’ exposure to it from groups. mid-summer into the fall, the eight library Ernest J. Gaines vis- branches hosted informal weekly “listen- ited Jackson to culmi- ing sessions” to the audiotapes on Tues- nate the ONE JACK- days, and “viewing sessions” of the video- SON ONE BOOK pro- tapes on Thursdays. ject on October 30-31. Prior to Mr. Gaines’ appearance in The adult component of late October, OJOB working committees the project featured two planned a series of public events related evening events for to the book for the Jackson community. metro area residents All programs were open to the public at from young people no charge, and were followed by Q & A through senior citizens. ONE JACKSON ONE BOOK Co-Chairwoman, Ruth Campbell; Co- sessions. On Thursday in the Chairwoman & Jackson Friends of the Library President, Ward Sumner, On September 10 City Councilman Concert Hall at Bel- and Honorary Chairwoman, Kathy Johnson, wife of Jackson Mayor, Har- vey Johnson. Dr. Leslie McLemore spoke at the Annual haven College Center Membership Meeting of the Jackson for the Arts, he read from and discussed Friends of the Library about the novel and his novel, A Lesson Before Dying. On the importance of the ONE JACKSON Friday evening at St. Andrew’s Cathedral, ONE BOOK project to the community. he spoke about his writing, discussed Millsaps College presented six profession- influences that directed his career as an al Readers Theatre performances of the author, and answered questions from a play version from September 17 through panel of writers and teachers. Over 300 21, and made the novel required reading adults attended these two events, and the for all entering freshmen. facilities were donated by Belhaven Col- The OJOB project sponsored a series lege and the Cathedral. of five weekly public discussions on con- Mr. Gaines spent the other half of his secutive Thursdays at Welty Library. On time in Jackson meeting with middle and September 18, a Creole Tasting was high school students at two morning held, followed by the first discussion, events held at Thalia Mara Auditorium. ONE BOOK Many Stories panel: Monique Guillory, “Setting the Scene.” On the following On Thursday he met with approximately Assoc. Prof. of English, JSU; Rabbi Debra Kassoff, Thursdays, discussion programs included 650 middle schoolers who had read, Institute of Southern Jewish Life; Eric Stringfellow, Clarion-Ledger; Frank Garrison, Attorney; modera- a professional reading from the book on been taught and discussed in the class- tor, Donna Ladd, editor, Jackson Free Press. The Sept. 25; “Matriarchs and Mentors: The room the short story “The Sky Is Gray.” panel presented reminiscences and viewpoints Role of Women” on Oct. 2; “Issues of On Friday he met with over 1200 area from various lives from different backgrounds at Religion and Ethics” on Oct. 9; and “One high school students who had likewise one of the OJOB events. Book, Many Stories” on Oct. 16. On studied the novel A Lesson Before Dying. October 23, the Hinds County Bar Asso- The City of Jackson donated use of the own experiences, Mr. Gaines understands ciation conducted a public panel discus- auditorium at no charge for these two problems of under-education and the sion on the criminal justice system and events. opportunities that a good education and capital punishment issues at a Town The OJOB Steering committee felt lifelong learning can provide. Until the Meeting at the Old Capitol Museum that this educational component of the age of 15, he was raised in a Louisiana House Chamber. Approximately 370 project was of utmost importance, and parish where there was no high school Jackson area residents attended these six that Mr. Gaines is an impressive role that he could attend, and where African- public events, and facilities were con- model that area students could be Americans were not allowed by law to use tributed at no charge by the library system inspired by and identify with. From his the public libraries. Page 5 Vol. 68, No. 1, Spring 2004 Mississippi Libraries
OJOB PROJECT the novel. Participation by area residents COMMUNITY IMPACT in the public discussion events was repre- FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ON CITY & STATE BOOK PROJECTS SEE: The ONE JACKSON ONE BOOK sentative of the diversity of our city, and project’s efforts resulted in widespread the discussions were enthusiastic and can- • Cole, J. Y. (June 2002). Communities community interest in the 2003 book did. And the project brought a noted Reading Together: State Centers for the selection and definitely promoted reading author to visit in Jackson and to meet Book Idea Exchange. The Library of and literacy. The 80+ member Steering with and discuss his works with over 300 Congress Information Bulletin, 61(6). Retrieved February 26, 2004, from Committee involved very disparate adults, 650 middle school students, and http://www.loc.gov/loc/lcib/0206/ groups working together for this commu- 1200 high school students. stateideas.html. nity effort. Holding five public events and The Jackson Friends of the Library is hosting “listening” and “viewing” ses- proud to have initiated and participated so • The Center for the Book, Library of sions for the book at library branches actively in this worthwhile community Congress. “One Book Reading Promotion Projects.” Retrieved February 26, 2004, increased use and awareness of the effort. We believe that the ONE JACK- from the Library of Congress Center for the library system’s programs and facilities, SON ONE BOOK project helped to unify Book Web site: http://www.loc.gov/ and from April through October, the sys- our community by promoting better com- loc/cfbook/one-book.html. tem reported an astonishing 2,631 munication among Jackson citizens while checkouts (book, audio and video ver- sharing our common experiences and • The Seattle Public Library. (2004). “Seattle Reads.” Retrieved February 26, 2004, from sions) from its branches. Area bookstores, interests. We are optimistic that this will the Seattle Public Library Web site: which were very supportive of the project, be reflected in an increased respect for http://www.spl.lib.wa.us/default.asp?page benefited from community interest and one another and a willingness to work ID=about_leaders_washingtoncenter_ from involvement of area schools: they together for the benefit of our city and for seattlereads. reported sales of over 1,600 copies of all the citizens of the Jackson metro area.
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A CERTIFIED LIBRARY BINDERY Mississippi Libraries Vol. 68, No. 1, Spring 2004 Page 6 ANNUAL EVENTS: Keeping the Library in the Public Eye
By Prima Plauché Library System Director Hancock County Library System [email protected]
Editors’ Note: The Kiln Public Library, Hancock County Library System, received the MLA 2004 Public Relations Award for their annual community tree lighting. The award recognized the best effort by an individual library to publicize library ser- vices around a single theme or event. A Colonial Christmas is portrayed by the Hancock County Home School Association on Candy Cane Annual events keep a public library in Lane. the public eye. They bring awareness to library services and position the library as a focal point in the community. Howev- er, annual events are the most difficult programs to implement and maintain. To be successful, an annual event must fill a need in a community that will draw a large audience year after year. Success Local businessman Gary Knoblock donates his depends on selecting the right day and time and equipment to pick up the tree on his time, finding the right theme, developing flatbed truck and decorate it. partners and soliciting volunteers to assist with the many details of the function. library’s service area to develop an annual Moreover, the best annual events have event theme. Located on Highway 603, Santa, Mrs. Claus and the elves visit with each “spectacle” appeal. the north/south corridor of Hancock child and hear their wish list. Each library in the Hancock County County, Kiln Library serves twenty unin- Library System (HCLS) holds an annual corporated communities. COMMUNITY RESPONSE event during the Christmas season. The Although the Kiln Library’s service This rather simple idea drew 1,800 Bay St. Louis Library hosts a two-day area is diverse, studies indicate that fami- people the first year, leading a local news- event around a holiday tree gala with an lies with children heavily populate each of paper to proclaim: “Tree Lighting Causes exhibit of seventy trees decorated by local the communities served. They choose to Traffic Jam in Kiln!” Now in its fourth businesses, organizations and schools. live in the area because of the school sys- year, the library event is a focal point in Waveland Library hosts an open house tem, easy access to an interstate highway bringing the community together during during the city’s Festival of Lights. for work and shopping, the rural setting the holiday season and increasing library Pearlington Library, a joint school/public and the feeling of community. use during November and December. In library, hosts a gingerbread house-deco- A community tree lighting seemed just the weeks leading up to the tree lighting, rating contest. These events involve the the event that would bring people togeth- the Library Foundation of Hancock Coun- community and draw people into the er. The idea expanded to include school ty provides pre-packaged ornament kits library during an historically slow period, choirs for entertainment, an indoor tree for library staff to distribute. Families pick the holiday season between Thanksgiving decorated by the children of the commu- up the ornament packets to make at and New Year’s. nity, refreshments and a visit from Santa home and return to put the finished orna- Claus. Representatives of the library’s ments on an indoor tree. Thus, circula- AN EVENT TO FIT funding authorities participate with their tion of library materials and library visits THE COMMUNITY families, and scores of volunteers con- during this period has increased from When the Kiln Public Library opened tribute their time to the event. year to year. in 2000, HCLS staff looked at the Page 7 Vol. 68, No. 1, Spring 2004 Mississippi Libraries
THE EVENT manpower to the The second Tuesday of December at event, which costs 6 p.m. is the annual date and time for the the library very lit- event. The ceremony takes place on the tle. The County front plaza of the library. As people gath- Sheriff adds extra er on the grounds of the library, the high manpower to direct school choir sings carols. The program traffic and parking. begins with a welcome by the library To make the director and a holiday blessing from a long wait to see local minister. The high school JROTC Santa more fun, raises the flag and leads the crowd in the the Hancock Coun- pledge of allegiance. A choir member ty Home School Hundreds wait outside on the plaza for the tree lighting program to begin. sings the national anthem. The president Association of the Board of Supervisors, joined by his designed a “candy-cane lane” through Each year more and more people family, gives holiday greetings. which the children walk. Along the lane, attend the Community Tree Lighting, As the choir sings “Oh, Christmas the home schoolers depict scenes from thus exposing new users to the library Tree,” county supervisors and their fami- Christmas past. Songs and readings from and its services. Area newspapers, radio lies come forward to light the tree. Christmas stories entertain children in line. stations and the local ABC affiliate televi- Excitement builds as the choir sings The library’s mascot Louie the Alligator sion station cover the event. The tree “Here Comes Santa Claus.” The sirens and his friend Boomer the Dog perform lighting has become a community event of the fire truck carrying Santa Claus antics to the delight of the children. Hare that everyone looks forward to each year. become louder as it makes it way down Krishna Food for Life volunteers prepare Adding new features each year keeps the the highway. With lights flashing and the five hundred cookies made from wheat event fresh. Involving the entire commu- crowd cheering, the vehicle pulls into the grown and milled in Hancock County. A nity gives it “spectacle” appeal. The library parking lot and the doors to the local businessman donates his time, his annual tree lighting keeps the library in library open. Inside, the children form a employees and his equipment to transport the public eye, brings awareness to library line that weaves throughout the library, a fifty-foot tree to the site and decorate it. services, and positions the library as a ending at the entrance to the children’s The volunteer fire department prepares focal point in the community throughout room where Santa awaits to hear each bags with small toys and candy for Santa’s the year. child’s wish. Parents and grandparents Cub Scout elves to give each child. can enjoy the local elementary school choir performing in the library’s meeting room and a variety of donated refresh- SUGGESTED READING ments. Coordinating a large annual event • Allen, Judy. Event Planning: The Ultimate Guide to Successful Meetings, takes the time and effort of many library Corporate Events, Fundraising Galas, Conferences, Conventions, Incentives staff members and volunteers. The staff and Other Special Events. Etobicoke, Ontario: John Wiley & Sons Canada now has a five-page checklist of details and Limited, 2000. assignments for the event implementation. This includes meeting a few days after the • Edsall, Marian S. Library Public Relations, Promotions, and tree lighting to note changes recommend- Communications. Phoenix, Arizona: The Oryx Press, 1980. ed for the next year and to write thank you letters to the many volunteers and spon- • Liebold, Louise Condak. Fireworks, Brass Bands, and Elephants: Promotion- sors who make the event possible. al Events with Flair for Libraries and Other Nonprofit Organizations. Phoenix, Arizona: The Oryx Press, 1986. GENEROUS COMMUNITY SUPPORT • Wolfe, Lisa. Library Public Relations, Promotions, and Communications. In all, twenty-three businesses and New York: Neal Schuman Publishers, Inc., 1997. organizations donate goods, services and Mississippi Libraries Vol. 68, No. 1, Spring 2004 Page 8 Seeking A New Measure of Service with LibQUAL+™
The LibQUAL+ instrument, as part of SURVEY USEFULNESS By Kay L. Wall the New Measures Initiative, is the result Many survey instruments provide University Librarian of developing a useful measure of out- respondents the opportunity to rate the The University of Southern Mississippi comes for patron satisfaction and service performance, service, and resources of [email protected] expectation. Previous ARL measures libraries. The interesting difference in the have been based upon quantitative infor- LibQUAL+ instrument is that the respon- In the fall of 2002, The University of mation such as the number of volumes dent’s rating is placed in the context of the Southern Mississippi Libraries elected to held, the number of questions answered, respondent’s expectations for minimum participate in the 2003 national library gate counts, and budgets. LibQUAL+ and maximum service levels. These levels survey known as LibQUAL+. The pri- seeks to ask those surveyed what their represent the respondent’s zone of toler- mary focus of LibQUAL+ is to assess the minimum and maximum expectations are ance. The question regarding the respon- quality of service in libraries. Since the and how their own library relates to these dent’s actual library experience is analyzed survey is conducted nationwide, each two expectations. relative to the zone of tolerance. question has been carefully worded to ask For example, using the LibQUAL+ common questions about library services HOW IT WORKS survey instrument, the respondent indi- in the most specific way possible. The The LibQUAL+ survey is a Web- cates that his minimum expectation for questions asked in 2003 were crafted based survey, and each participating insti- library hours is 7.8. In the second por- from two previous survey questionnaires. tution invites its community to complete tion of the question, the respondent indi- the survey within a specified period of cates his maximum service expectation is HISTORY time. The results are collected on a serv- 9.5. In the final portion of the question, The development of the LibQUAL+ er dedicated at Texas A&M University. the respondent rates his library’s hours as survey instrument began as a collaborative The Web-based survey allows libraries to a 7. From this example, the library is effort with the Association of Research invite participants from desired con- clearly not meeting the respondent’s Libraries (ARL) New Measures Initiative stituencies to complete the form at any expectations. When using a simple scale and Texas A&M University. The effort time. Aggregate data is shared with par- of 1-9 to rate library hours, a score of 7 received a three-year Fund for the Improve- ticipating institutions and provides useful appears to be satisfactory. When the rat- ment of Post-Secondary Education (FIPSE) comparison information. ing is placed in the context of respondent grant from the U.S. Department of Educa- The questions are designed to provide expectations, the gap in service adequacy tion that ended in September of 2003. feedback in four areas of library service. is evident. The 2002-2003 survey period was the The Access to Information category cov- third iteration of the survey instrument, with ers library print and non-print resources, OPEN-ENDED QUESTIONS two hundred institutions participating. Over library hours, and document delivery. In addition to the twenty-two questions 400 institutions have used the LibQUAL+ Affect of Service questions cover courte- for rating, each respondent has an oppor- instrument since its inception. ousness, approachability, dependability tunity to respond to open-ended ques- and knowledge of library employees. tions specifically provided for the partici- GOALS The Library as Place questions focus on pating institution. This part of the survey The LibQUAL+ Web site (http:// library facilities for study, research and provides feedback about collections, per- www.libqual.org/) indicates that the goals group learning. Personal Control ques- sonnel, services, and the instrument itself of the LibQUAL+ are to: tions include accessibility for independent that the respondent may feel is not fully • Establish a library service quality work, Web site usability, and remote addressed by the original questions. assessment program at ARL; access of library resources. Each of the twenty-five survey ques- SURVEY RESULTS • Develop Web-based tools for assess- tions are asked in three ways: Respondents completed 364 online ing library service quality; 1) What is my minimum service/ surveys from March 17 to April 5, 2003. • Develop mechanisms and protocols resource expectation on a scale of 1-9? The largest group responding was under- for evaluating libraries; 2) What is my desired service/resource graduate students (36.54%), followed by expectation on a scale of 1-9? faculty (29.67%), graduates (17.86%) • Identify best practices in providing 3) Where does my library score based on and staff (11.54%). The summary infor- library service. these expectations? mation from the survey is shown in the Page 9 Vol. 68, No. 1, Spring 2004 Mississippi Libraries
LIBQUAL SUMMARY CHART Minimum service expectation 6.95 University Libraries 7.36 Affect of Service Access to Information Desired service expectation 8.34
ACCESS TO INFORMATION Overall, the Access to Information component revealed minimal satisfaction with library resources. Access to informa- tion includes library materials, service hours, and timely document delivery. In the summary radar chart, University Libraries did not meet the minimum expectations for the following statements: • “Print and/or electronic journal collec- tions I require for my work.” • “The printed library materials I need for my work.” For the entire group of questions in this category, the result means indicate the following: Minimum service expectation 6.93 University Libraries 6.99 Desired service expectation 8.37
Personal Control When the access to information sur- Library as Place vey responses are further analyzed according to the demographics of under- graduate students, graduate students, and radar chart above. The four dimensions of service adequacy is less than indicated faculty, the negative adequacy gap for assessed are defined, and the differences in the previous aspect, the perceived ser- access to information is more clearly por- in a respondent’s minimum expectation vice falls well within the respondents’ trayed. The means for each group are and the University Libraries’ rating are zone of tolerance. The Affect of Service shown in the chart below. graphically represented. component also indicates that the library The most important factor to note is is more than meeting minimum expecta- that while The University of Southern LIBRARY AS PLACE tions. In this category, the summary data Mississippi’s information resources avail- As the summary radar chart indicates, means are: able may be somewhat adequate for for all surveyed the Library as Place most Minimum service expectation 6.84 undergraduate students, the information markedly exceeds the respondent’s mini- University Libraries 7.33 needs for faculty and graduate students mum expectations. The relationship Desired service expectation 8.18 are not being minimally addressed. between the minimum expectation and the perceived rating of the University PERSONAL CONTROL THE SOLUTION Libraries is greater than the maximum Survey questions in the Personal Con- An influx of funds for library materials expectation and the perceived rating. trol component concern convenience, would appear to be the simple solution. The large shaded area indicates service Web site usability, and independent learn- For over fifteen years, flat and reduced adequacy in this category. These results ing. In this component, the library is library materials funding, coupled with an indicate that the library is a facility con- exceeding minimum expectations and annual serials inflation of near ten per- ducive for study, learning, and research. within the zones of tolerance, but to a cent, has greatly diminished purchasing The mean summaries are as follows: lesser degree than in previously men- power. Within the past ten years, library Minimum service expectation 6.64 tioned categories. budgets have been significantly impacted University Libraries 7.63 Desired service expectation 7.94 Undergraduate Graduate Faculty Total Minimum service expectation 6.71 7.06 7.04 6.93 AFFECT OF SERVICE Questions in this category focus on University Libraries 7.23 6.66 6.80 6.99 courteous, dependable, knowledgeable Desired service expectation 8.01 8.52 8.44 8.37 library employees. Although the degree Mississippi Libraries Vol. 68, No. 1, Spring 2004 Page 10 by the cost of electronic resources. While other demographic information, including information, while demands for increased electronic resources provide a greater the respondent’s discipline. information continue to be a major issue number of access points, these resources Even with the abundance of data provid- for academic libraries. Information gather- are expensive. ed by the LibQUAL+ survey, the local data ing and analysis of data from those we New funding resources need to be sub- indicates that The University of Southern serve provides leverage for increased stantial, sustained, and incrementally Mississippi Libraries’ greatest deficit is in the funding. Reports to university administra- increased for the library to meet the needs area of library materials support. In particu- tors from surveys such as LibQUAL+ are of its faculty and students. Funding sources lar, print, non-print and electronic resources evidence of our constituencies’ beliefs, may include state funded support through provided by the University Libraries are not and serve as useful benchmarks regarding the University E&G budget or external adequately meeting the needs of those who library service. Meaningful improvement funding through endowments and grants. responded to the survey. of library services is not easily gained with- Another consideration is more com- On the national level, aggregate data out gathering feedback from library users. plex. Close scrutiny of the existing for the survey is provided to each partici- The best way to gain this knowledge is to resource use must be addressed as well. pating institution. Assessment of our ser- listen, analyze what is said, and then cre- Simply put, are we buying the right vice marks relative to all other participants ate a strategy based on this information. things? Are the resources currently avail- is possible and yields some interesting Whether it be surveys, focus groups, elec- able no longer appropriate for the collec- insights. The summary data indicates that tronic suggestion boxes, or public forums, tion? Is there a need to discontinue some other colleges and universities are facing new ways of listening give new perspec- resources and use funds to purchase similar situations in the aspect of access to tives on the library and its mission. items more germane to the teaching, learning and research needs of the facul- ty? Analysis of current expenditures is an important aspect to maximizing resources. Such analysis includes the study of database use, journal use, collec- tion development policy revision for aca- demic departments, increased awareness of and redirected support for document delivery, and careful assessment of the University’s mission relative to the infor- mation support offered via the library. Other areas for evaluating existing resources may also include continued innovation, decisions to delay purchases, cooperative collection development, and taking advantage of publishers’ resource bundling for greater purchasing power.
SUMMARY The summary information above only scratches the surface of the eighty-three page LibQUAL+ survey report for The University of Southern Mississippi. Partic- ipating in the ARL LibQUAL+ survey provided an excellent opportunity for The University of Southern Mississippi Libraries to utilize a Web-based instrument designed to assess library services and resources for our faculty, staff, and stu- dents. In addition, a file of more than 125 open-ended responses was provided through the Web survey that addressed more specific Southern Miss library resources. Data provided in the full report includes analysis for each question by Page 11 Vol. 68, No. 1, Spring 2004 Mississippi Libraries
LEGISLATIVE DAY 2004: Mississippi’s Future @ Your Library
By Rebecca Holland the only research tool many children Technical Services have.” Speaking from his years of experi- Lamar County Library System ence in economic development, Morris [email protected] stressed, “the library is a vital organ in the make up of the community” – a commu- A gathering of 216 Mississippi librari- nity that industries and businesses evalu- ans, trustees, and Friends attended this ate when deciding where to locate. Mor- year’s Library Legislative Day held Febru- ris urged, “Don’t sell yourself short.” ary 3 at the Agricultural Museum and Representative Morris continued with Eudora Welty Library in Jackson. information on the process that a bill must The speaker for the morning session go through in order to become a law, Legislative Day participants browse materials on was Phoebe D. Smith-Porter, a represen- important facts to know before approach- the Glory of Baroque Dresden exhibit. tative of the upcoming exhibition, “The ing a legislator, and different methods for Glory of Baroque Dresden.” Ms. Porter approaching legislators regarding funding entertained the audience with a Power and other issues. Acknowledging the Point presentation highlighting the mag- value of public libraries as a library user, nificent jewels, armor, artifacts, paintings, Morris said, “The library serves as a place and many other items that make up this of solace for me.” impressive collection. The afternoon program continued The items included in “The Glory of with the presentation of the 2004 MLA Baroque Dresden” exhibition miraculous- Public Relations Awards. The afternoon ly escaped the 1945 firebombing, which program concluded with a legislative devastated the city. The collection was update session by Frances Coleman, First Regional Library Director Jim Anderson and removed from this historic city and hid- member of the MLA Legislative Commit- First Regional Library Asst. Director Catherine den in outlying areas. The majority of the tee and Dean of Libraries at Mississippi Nathan talk with Legislative Day Speaker Repre- sentative Leonard Morris. collection was later discovered by Soviet State University. Coleman emphasized troops and taken to Russia. In 1958 the the significance of 42 new members in Soviet government returned the collection the legislature and a new governor. At to the city of Dresden. The actual exhibi- this point much is unknown. How do the tion will be held March 1 - September 6, new members and new governor view 2004, at the Mississippi Arts Pavilion in libraries? To what extent they will sup- Jackson. port us? Coleman also stressed that all of MLA President Juanita Flanders the state’s one-time money is gone. Edu- opened the afternoon session by recog- cation will not be the first to be funded nizing MLA Executive Secretary Mary this year; rather education is likely to be Julia Anderson for her work on behalf of last. MLA this past year. Librarians, trustees, and Friends gath- Representative Leonard Morris, Chair ered again that evening at the Eudora of the House Medicaid Committee, was Welty Library to welcome legislators to Pamela Pridgen, Director of The Library of Hatties- the afternoon keynote speaker. Selected the annual legislative reception. Over burg, Petal, and Forrest County (r) speaking with as the “2003 Friend of Education,” Mor- 100 legislators and officials attended this Phoebe D. Porter, guest speaker representing the ris stated that the “library is sometimes year’s reception. Glory of Baroque Dresden exhibit. Mississippi Libraries Vol. 68, No. 1, Spring 2004 Page 12
MISSISSIPPI LIBRARY ASSOCIATION The MLA 2004 LEGISLATIVE GOALS
Increase public awareness of the role Public Relations Awards of all types of libraries in the educa- GOLDEN BOOK AWARD tional, informational and economic Jackson Friends of the Library development of the state. Most outstanding volunteer effort by an individual or group deemed to have contributed most to library awareness in the Secure increased funding for such past or present. (Accepting the award are (l. to r.) Ellen statewide library cooperative efforts as McLean, Steering Committee; Carol McCallum, Exec. Direc- MAGNOLIA, which provides Missis- tor, Jackson-Hinds Library System; and Ruth Davis, Youth Services Supervisor.) sippians with access to electronic informational databases through all PUBLIC RELATIONS AWARDS publicly-supported libraries. Mid-Mississippi Regional Library System Best year-round coordinated effort by a group of libraries to Secure legislative and executive branch publicize library services in general. (Accepting the award support of full funding for the Mississip- are (l. to r.) Betty Hathcock, Durant Public Librarian; May pi Library Commission’s budget, includ- Ellen Ellis, Carthage Public Librarian; Linda Bounds, Wal- ing direct state aid for public libraries. nut Grove Public Librarian; Yvonne Clark, Tchula Public Librarian; Linda Milner, Assistant Director; Laura Lawson, Lexington Public Librarian; Angie Burrell; West Public Secure legislative and executive branch Librarian; Carolyn Pilgrim, Attala County librarian; and support for bond funding for capital Richard O. Greene, System Director.) improvement needs in public libraries.
Strengthen K-12 library programs PUBLIC RELATIONS AWARDS through legislative efforts and relation- Eudora Welty Library (Jackson-Hinds Library System) ships with State Department of Educa- Best year-round effort by an individual library to publicize library tion officials. services in general. (Accepting the award are Karen Henderson, Youth Services Assistant and Ruth Davis, Youth Services Supervisor.) Secure legislative and executive branch support for funding for library programs in Mississippi’s community colleges and institutions of higher learning. PUBLIC RELATIONS AWARDS First Regional Library Advance library issues through devel- Best coordinated effort of several libraries to publicize library opment of relationships with county services around a single theme or event. (Accepting the award is and municipal associations. Jim Anderson, Director of First Regional Library System.)
Identify and monitor any legislative ini- tiatives that pertain to or impact the PUBLIC RELATIONS AWARDS delivery of library services to Mississip- Kiln Public Library (Hancock pians, including issues related to fund- County Library System) ing, library governance, intellectual Best effort by an individual library to freedom, access to information, and publicize library services around a single theme or event. (Accepting the award is confidentiality in the use of library Prima Plauché, Director of Hancock materials and services. County Library System.)
Monitor federal activities affecting libraries and encourage passage of PUBLIC RELATIONS AWARDS needed legislation. James Corley, Library Trustee and Artist Special recognition for artistic creation of the “Storytime” statue at Raise awareness of the need for pro- the Lucedale-George County Public Library branch of the fessional librarians and qualified staff Jackson-George Regional Library System. (Jim Corley with his in libraries. wife Nancy and granddaughter Isabell. Photo credit: Janet Smith.) Page 13 Vol. 68, No. 1, Spring 2004 Mississippi Libraries A Look at Legislative Day 2004
From the Oxford/Lafayette County Left to right: MLC Branch: Left to Right: Laura Beth Board Member Walker, Oxford Reference Librarian; Dr.Glenda Segars, Senator Gray Tollison; Mississippi Representative Library Commissioner Jolee Hussey; Steve Holland, and Representative Jack Gadd; Nora Representative Dalton, Lafayette County Library Jessica Sibley Trustee; Dorothy Fitts, Oxford Head Upshaw. Librarian; and Nancy Opalko, Oxford Children’s Librarian.
Representative Joey Filligane, Laurel-Jones Public Library Director Paulette Entrekin, Children’s Librarian Jan Johnson and Assistant Director Mary Louise Breland.
Dr. Glenda Segars, ICC and State Library Board Member, and Speaker of the House Billy McCoy.
Left to right: Cindy Jamerson, Itawamba County Branch of Lee Itawamba Library System; Rep. Jamie Franks; William McMullin, Northeast Regional Library System.
Representative Gary Staples and Rep. Bennie Turner and Mary Helen Waggoner, Hancock County Library System Bryan Library, West Point, Tombigbee Regional Director Prima Plauché. Library System.
Left to Right: Friends of Mississippi Libraries/Eastern Region Representative Elizabeith Aydelott, Mississippi Library Commission (MLC) Board of Commissioners Chair Jo Anne Reid, MLC Executive Director Sharman B. Smith, Hinds Community College Dean of Library Services Dr. Juanita Flanders, and Mississippi State University Dean of Library Services Frances Coleman.
Left to Right: Senator James Shannon Walley; Pearl Odom; Patsy Brewer, Director, Waynesboro-Wayne County Library; Representa- tive Joe Taylor; Rose Waller, Waynesboro-Wayne County Library; Representative Randy Pierce; Rebecca Campbell Holland, Lamar Library System. Mississippi Libraries Vol. 68, No. 1, Spring 2004 Page 14 MLA 2004 Officer Nominees
The following slate of nominees for MLA officers has been recommended by the Nominating Committee and was approved by the Executive Board at the February 3, 2004 meeting. On April 1, ballots were mailed by the Election Com- mittee to individual members whose dues are paid for 2004 or who hold life mem- berships. Ballots should be marked and returned to the Election Committee by May 1 in envelopes supplied by the com- mittee. Candidates and the Executive Board will notified of the results of the election by May 15. Look for the elec- Catherine A. Nathan Mary Helen Waggoner tion results in the summer issue of Missis- sippi Libraries. Note: Newly elected offi- University of Alabama in Huntsville Vice-President/President-Elect cers will take office on January 1, 2005. Library, 1979-1980; Reference Librari- an, Chatham-Effingham-Liberty Regional MARY HELEN WAGGONER Library headquartered in Savannah, GA, 1977-1979. Education: M.L.S., University of Alaba- Vice-President/President-Elect ma, 1980; B.S. Mississippi State College Professional Activities: ALA: Mem- for Women, 1967 in Library Science, ber, 1977 to present. PLA: Member. A.A. Wood Junior College, 1965. CATHERINE A. NATHAN MLA: Member, 1994 to present; Com- mittees: National Library Week. Served Professional Experience: Director, Education: M.S.L.S., The University of as Chair, Public Library Section. Mem- Tombigbee Regional Library System, Tennessee in Knoxville, 1977; B.A., ber, Steering Committee of the MAGNO- 1998 to present; Coordinator of Techni- Birmingham-Southern College, 1975. LIA Project. Currently serving as cal Services, Reference and Documents, Statewide Coordinator for Training and Mississippi University for Women, 1990- Professional Experience: Assistant Co-Chair, Publicity Committee. Other: 1998; Media Director, Division of Nurs- Director for Public Services, First Region- Vice President-President-elect, DeSoto ing, Mississippi University for Women, al Library, Hernando, MS, 1994 to pre- County Literacy Council; Board Member, 1984-1990; Assistant Director, Colum- sent. Branch Manager for the Bartlett, Tate County Literacy Council; President, bus–Lowndes Public Library System, Arlington, and Cossitt Branches, Assistant North Mississippi Literacy Alliance. Advi- 1967-1983. Director, Shelby State Community Col- sory Board for the School of Library and lege Branch, and Assistant Department Information Science, University of South- Professional Activities: ALA: Mem- Head, Literature, Philosophy and Reli- ern Mississippi: Member. Selected as a ber, 1998 to present. PLA: Member, gion Department, Main Library of the conferee from State of Tennessee to various years. MLA: 1990 to present and Memphis/Shelby County Public Library attend the ALA Intellectual Freedom other various years. and Information Center, Memphis, TN, Leadership Development Institute, Chica- 1982-1993. Reference and Interlibrary go, 1988. Play Santa Claus and Cat in Publications and Presentation: Library Loan Librarian, North Alabama Coopera- the Hat for children of all ages when information articles and columns in local tive Library System/Huntsville-Madison asked and most especially when bribed newspapers. “If We Can Do It, You Can County Public Library, Huntsville, AL, with cookies. Do It; Book Clubs at TRL,” presentation at 1980-1982; General Reference Librarian, 2003 MLA. Numerous presentations of book reviews and library talks to “Friends” Visit our Website: groups, Rotary Club, nursing homes, etc. Honors: Alpha Beta Alpha, Beta Phi www.misslib.org Mu, Red Rose Award from Alpha Iota Chapter, Delta Kappa Gamma. Page 15 Vol. 68, No. 1, Spring 2004 Mississippi Libraries
Paul C. Cartwright Linda Milner Carol D. Green
Secretary Secretary Treasurer
PAUL C. CARTWRIGHT LINDA MILNER CAROL D. GREEN
Education: M.L.S., University of South- Education: M.L.S., University of Alaba- Education: M.L.S., The University of ern Mississippi, 1988. B.A. in History, ma, 1977; B.S., Mississippi State Univer- Southern Mississippi, 1991; B.S., The Hendrix College, Conway, Ark., 1986. sity, 1974. University of Southern Mississippi, 1983.
Professional Experience: Director of Professional Experience: Assistant Professional Experience: Serials the B.S. Ricks Memorial Library in Yazoo Director, Mid-Mississippi Regional Library Librarian, The University of Southern City, 2003 to present; Director of Copi- System, Kosciusko, MS, 1987 to pre- Mississippi, 1992 to present; Library ah-Jefferson Library System 1993-2003; sent; Extension Librarian, MMRLS, Clerk II, The University of Southern Mis- Asst. Director of the Madison County 1978-1987; Collection Development sissippi, 1986-1992. Library System 1988-1993. Librarian, MMRLS, 1977; Attala County Librarian, 1975-1976; Bookmobile Professional Activities: ALA: Mem- Professional Activities: MLA: Public Librarian, MMRLS, 1974-1975. ber, 1990-1998; Committees: ALA- Library Section Chair; Archives and History NMRT Orientation. SELA: Member, Committee, Chair 1998; Conservation Professional Activities: MLA: 1994-1997. Piney Woods Regional Committee; Authors Awards Committee, Member, 1978 to present; Commit- Librarians’ Association: Charter member, late 1998; Scholarship Committee: Peggy tees: MLA Local Arrangement Conven- 1996-1999. North American Serials Mae Silent Auction Chair 2001-2004; tion Chairman 1991; Chairman, National Interest Group (NASIG): Member, MLA Legislative Committee 1993-1997, Library Week 1992; Awards Committee, 1993 to present. Committees: Awards 1999-2002; MPLAC President – 1994; member; Legislative Committee, mem- and Recognition, 2000 to present; MLA New Members Round Table Chair ber; Continuing Education, member; NASIG conference reporter, 1999 to pre- 1989-1990; Chair NLW Committee MLA Nominating Committee, member. sent; NASIG mentor, 2001 to present. 1993. Other: Currently active as a board MLA: Member, 1990 to present. Con- member of Yazoo County Chamber of Honors: Regional Delegate to the Gov- ference committees: Exhibits, co-chair, Commerce; Board member of Yazoo Main ernor’s Conference on Library and Infor- 2001-02, chair, 2003; Hospitality, chair, Street Committee; Chairman of Yazoo City mation Services, 1979; 1992 MLC 1999; Poster Sessions, chair, 2004; Historic Preservation Commission; Mem- Director’s Award for Outstanding Service Registration. Committees: Awards, chair, ber of Yazoo City Lions and Rotary Clubs, to the Mississippi Library Community; 2000; Fiscal Management; Handbook, Member of Advisory Board for the Services Coordinated and received 24 years of chair, 1996; Intellectual Freedom, chair, for the Blind and Physically Handicapped MLA Service Awards for “Best Year- 1999; Long Range Planning; Member- of the Mississippi 2003-2005. Round Coordinated Effort by a Group of ship, chair, 1998; National Library Libraries to Publicize Library Services in Week; Nominating; Publications; Silent Publications: “Director as Politician,” General” for the Mid-Mississippi Regional Auction, chair, 1999. New Members Mississippi Libraries, Vol. 58, No. 1, Library System. Round Table, chair, 1995-96. Advertis- Spring 1994. ing Editor for Mississippi Libraries, 1993-95. Other: Beta Phi Mu Interna- Honors: Community Service Award, tional Library Science Honor Society, Wesson Chamber Commerce, 2002. 1991 to present; Beta Psi Chapter, Sec- Mississippi Libraries Vol. 68, No. 1, Spring 2004 Page 16
Professional Experience: School Library Media Specialist, Quitman Upper Elementary Library, Quitman, MS, 1994- Present; Principal, Quitman Jr. High School, Quitman, MS, 1988-1994; Assistant Principal, Quitman Jr. High School, Quitman, MS, 1979-1988; Teacher (math, science, English, & social studies), Quitman Jr. High School, Quit- man, MS, 1974-1979.
Professional Activities: ALA: Mem- Chuck McClure ber, 1994-Present; Statistics Committee, 1999-2000. MLA: Member, 1994- Present; Vice Chair, School Libraries retary/Treasurer, 1993-94; President- Section, 1996; Chair, School Libraries Elect, 2000; President, 2001. USM Section, 1997; Committees: Hospitali- SLIS Alumni Association: Treasurer, ty, Mississippi Authors Awards, & Regis- 1997-98. University Libraries Internal tration. Other: Mississippi School Allocations Committee, 2002 to present. Library Standards Committee.
Presentations: “How to Improve Circu- lation in a School Library,” LAMP Tour, Treasurer Meridian, MS, 1995; “What Makes a Great Library,” Lamp Tour, Tupelo, CHUCK MCCLURE Grenada, Greenville, Jackson, & Meridi- an, 1996; “How Sweet It Is – The Use of Education: Library Certification, Liv- the AR Program in a School,” Mississippi ingston University, 1996; M. Ed., Missis- Reading Council, Biloxi, 1993. sippi State University, 1978; B.S., Texas A&I University, summa cum laude, Honors: Teacher of the Year, 1994- 1974; A.A., Del Mar College, 1972; 1995; Phi Delta Kappa, Educator Honor Other: Graduate, Community College of Society, 1991; Honor Student, U.S. Air the Air Force, 1994; Mississippi Air Force Historian Class, Maxwell AFB, AL, National Guard, 1984-2003; U.S. Air 1990; Phi Theta Kappa, Jr. College Force, 1966-1970. Honor Society, 1972.
CALL FOR POSTER SESSIONS Poster Session applications for the 2004 MLA Conference are now being accepted.
Apply by July 30, 2004 E-mail an abstract of no more than 250 words to: Carol Green Email: [email protected] In a separate paragraph, please note any equipment or special set-up requirements. Page 17 Vol. 68, No. 1, Spring 2004 Mississippi Libraries
The Web in Review Edited by Steven Turner, The University of Southern Mississippi
WEB SITES FOR serials, to name a few. AcqWeb maintains sion groups. Web publication listings on COLLECTION its own e-mail list and provides a search a variety of acquisitions and collection DEVELOPMENT AND engine for those seeking specific topics. development topics are provided. A news subsection provides some updates on ACQUISITIONS ARL COLLECTIONS PROGRAM ALCTS and ALA activities and events, http://www.arl.org/collect/ and an online newsletter keeps subscribers By Malachi Martin Organized and maintained by the and members informed. The site is a Print Cataloging Specialist Association of Research Libraries (ARL), must-see for not only the acquisitions or The University of Southern Mississippi the Collections Program supports mem- collection development professional, but [email protected] ber libraries – university and non-universi- also those interested in collaboration and ty – by providing resources, coordinating in continuing education opportunities. Here are a few handy Web sites con- funding and support, and facilitating col- cerning collection development and acqui- laboration. The Web site maintains a vari- COLLECTION DEVELOPMENT sitions. While my overall concern here is ety of useful links, internal and external, TRAINING collection development and management, running the gamut from recent trends to http://www.dlapr.lib.az.us/ I recognize that it is intimately bound up general issues in user access and collec- cdt/index.htm with the acquisitions dimension of a library. tion development. An interesting list of This site offers a wealth of information. I’ve tried to keep that fact in mind through- recent publications offers a window onto While it is a sort of primer for librarians out each of my descriptive reviews. recent trends in the acquisition of materials needing to develop collection develop- and media in libraries overseas. A couple ment skills, it also has much to offer to ACQWEB of additional morsels, including informa- the seasoned librarian who has already http://acqweb.library. tion on a moderated collection develop- lived through the heat of battle. It is vanderbilt.edu/ ment e-mail list and internal and external geared towards public libraries, but much AcqWeb is an excellent resource on links to a variety of special collection sites, of the material is of potential value to acquisitions and collection development. may whet the librarian’s appetite. It other library settings as well. It is funded An internal link (/acqweb/cd_policy.html) should also be noted that ARL sponsors by Arizona State Library, Archives, and furnishes a listing of links to the collection “collection analysis projects” for individual Public Records (http://www.lib.az.us/), development policies and procedures of libraries, culminating in an in-depth ARL among others. The site offers an intro- numerous academic, public, school, task force analysis of the library collec- duction to basic concepts in collection state, and university libraries. Of interest tion’s strengths and weakness. As with development, a general overview, and is a news section that offers updates on most things in life, it costs money. Over- issues of policy development pertinent to AcqWeb developments and activities, all, I found this site to be fairly interesting community-specific needs. A page on sites under development, and other news and would recommend it. materials selection breaks down library items related to acquisitions and collec- media by format, subdivided further into tion development. One section offers a ASSOCIATION FOR LIBRARY lists of links, including a description and variety of links on in-print and out-of-print COLLECTIONS AND additional references. The books catego- items and their procurement. A useful TECHNICAL SERVICES ry, for example, expounds on selection listing of vendors and publishers is orga- http://www.ala.org/ala/ and evaluation criteria and tools. For the nized alphabetically, geographically, and alcts/alcts.htm researcher or librarian interested in other by e-mail and subject area (humanities, A branch of the American Library aspects of the acquisitions and collection law, social sciences, etc.). Another direc- Association (ALA), the Association for development cycle, highly enriching Web tory lists a wide array of organizations and Library Collections and Technical Services pages await. In addition to the acquisi- associations nationally and globally. (ALCTS) monitors the policies of libraries tions component, Web pages treat issues Librarians and researchers desiring gener- nationwide with respect to acquisitions, of intellectual freedom, weeding, and al information will also note that additional collection development, and cataloging. preservation. Without a doubt, this Web links are provided for specific areas of Its “Collections” internal link, for example, site is a rich and comprehensive resource special concern to acquisitions and collec- lists some books pertinent to the topic, for a fledgling or veteran collection devel- tion development, including gifts and and provides a few links to relevant discus- opment or acquisitions professional. exchanges as well as preservation and Mississippi Libraries Vol. 68, No. 1, Spring 2004 Page 18
COLLECTION DEVELOPMENT Collection Development” links lead to a WEB SITES FOR LIBRARY AND THE INTERNET list of external links, which are organized JOB SEEKERS http://lcweb.loc.gov/acq/ into at least a title and a description. colldev/handbook.html Users will find library policies and proce- By Nathan G. McArthur This site is an online handbook on dures, relevant newsgroups and e-mail Graduate Student collection development created by the lists, tools for collection development and School of Library and Information Sci- Library of Congress and linked from acquisitions librarians, and electronic jour- ence and Department of History its collection development page nals. The procurement of foreign materi- The University of Southern Mississippi (http://lcweb.loc.gov/acq/devpol/). als is also given consideration, with links [email protected] Although it is no longer updated, the site to appropriate vendors. Want to know still provides some general information on something about book exchange or the Many people think a computer can collection development and a few external licensing of electronic resources? Several provide anyone with anything. Can my links (some of which are reviewed here). external links are provided. Under “Ref- computer find me a job? Well, not exact- Information on e-mail lists, a brief litera- erence Tools,” topics can be explored ly, but a computer can find 500,000 Web ture review, and an extended section deal- either by utilizing the provided menu or sites that each promise to have informa- ing with recent issues in online catalog by exploiting the site’s search engine. I tion about the perfect job. Therefore, the usage are also given. would recommend this site for at least a question becomes, how can I best use my quick browse if not a prolonged perusal. computer to find a job? The Web sites COPING WITH CHALLENGES reviewed below are offered as examples of http://www.ala.org/alaorg/ broad categories of sites with job postings. oif/coping_inf.html Public and school libraries sometimes face challenges to, and criticism of, cer- tain items in their collections. Whatever the underlying motivation of these chal- lenges, they sometimes culminate in the removal of the item in question. Weeding as censorship has long been the sore thumb of both the American Library Association and many a professional. This Web page, maintained by ALA, explores all facets of the issue, offering strategies and tips for dealing with chal- lenges posed to a given library’s collec- tion. A useful Q&A underlies ALA’s philosophical perspective concerning col- lection development and diversity, and offers clarification on potentially contro- versial positions. Support groups are list- ed, as well as references to published materials on the topic. As with anything ALA has to say on the issue of intellectual freedom and the integrity of a library’s collection, this page is worth a perusal. See also ALA’s Diversity in Collection Development which clarifies ALA’s col- lection development philosophy, at www.ala.org/alaorg/oif/div_coll.html
INTERNET LIBRARY FOR LIBRARIANS http://www.itcompany.com/ inforetriever/acqsercd.htm Internet Library is a portal designed for general research by library users as well as librarians. “Acquisitions, Serials, and Page 19 Vol. 68, No. 1, Spring 2004 Mississippi Libraries
LIBRARY JOB POSTINGS ON The Wyoming Library Association’s institutions. This is an excellent site and THE INTERNET official Web site is an excellent example well worth a visit by the job seeker. http://www.libaryjobpostings.org of what many state library associations This Web site has over 400 links to offer job seekers. The quality of each LIBRARY SPOT job listings in a variety of library special- association’s Web site varies, but most http://www.LibrarySpot.com ties, and users can search by job location are worth an examination. This site pre- This is an amazing Web site. The or specialty. Clicking on almost any link sents lots of information in an uncluttered links to resources are listed down the left on the home page leads to a hodgepodge user-friendly format. The WLA’s vision, side of the main page. The remainder of listing of available jobs; this is the weak- mission, purpose, and beliefs are printed the screen presents only necessary infor- ness of the site. The listings are arranged in the middle of the page, and links are mation in a neat and user-friendly style, alphabetically, but organizing them by listed in columns on both sides of the and each link leads to high-quality infor- state or library system would be better. page. All of the links on the home page mation. Users can search ALA job list- Links may lead to a job posting, a Web work and lead to useful, well-organized ings, Library Journal classifieds, site or series of sites, a series of other information. To find a list of available LibraryJobs.com, employment services, links, or nowhere. Often, the final desti- jobs, click “WLA Job Board.” This leads or specialty libraries. The only problem nation is not worth the time it took to get directly to a detailed list of all library jobs with this Web site is pop-up ads and ban- there. This site appears friendly and easi- available within the Wyoming Library ners. However, the ad banners are inte- ly navigable, but don’t be fooled. I don’t Association. This is an excellent site. grated into the design of the site in a way recommend it. that poses little interference. Overall, I THE GRADUATE SCHOOL OF highly recommend this site. LISJOBS.COM – JOBS FOR LIBRARY AND INFORMATION LIBRARIANS AND INFORMATION SCIENCE UNIVERSITY LIBRARYSUPPORTSTAFF.COM PROFESSIONALS OF ILLINOIS AT http://www.LibrarySupportStaff.com http://www.Lisjobs.com URBANA-CHAMPAIGN An interesting and expansive site with Lisjobs is a useful and easy-to-use http://www.lis.uiuc.edu lots of information about the profession, Web site. Job listings are posted by date Here is an excellent example of the this site has information about “staff cre- and location, and even include “non-US” job placement assistance many library and ations, web publishing, citations, finding a offerings. Each link on the home page information science schools provide their job, reference sites, library journals, edu- leads to well-organized and useful infor- graduates. The home page is uncluttered cation4you sites, on the job help, sites for mation, and the design is uncluttered, and easily navigable. A wide array of staff,” and more. Each link leads to plen- with links on the left and text on the well-organized categories is available ty of information useful to both new grad- right. Lisjobs covers the same informa- under “Resources,” but the link most use- uates and veteran job seekers. The orga- tion as LibraryJobPostings.com, but in a ful to job searchers is “Employment Web nization of the links is poor and the font better format. Overall this is an excellent sites and Listservs.” “This is not an all on many pages is small, but these weak- Web site, and I highly recommend it. inclusive list to online resources for find- nesses are only a minor distraction. Most ing LIS-related jobs…, but rather a list of users will have no trouble finding useful WYOMING LIBRARY general sites that have collection of LIS information, and I recommend this Web ASSOCIATION job postings.” All of the links work and site to any job seeker. http://www.wyla.org/ many lead to the Web sites of well-known MLA 2004 Conference Preview The Mississippi Library Association annual conference will be held October 19 – 22 at the Natchez Convention Center. The theme for this year’s conference is “Explore History Embrace the Future @ your library.™” Where better to meet and greet fellow professionals than the place where the state’s history began, Natchez? The Isle of Capri Casino Hotel will serve as the conference hotel; the Ramada Inn, as well as downtown Bed and Breakfasts, will also be available for any necessary additional rooms. It is not too late to complete a Committee preference form, or to volunteer in some way. If you don’t see your name listed among the 2004 Conference Committees’ members and you submitted a form, please forgive the omission. Correspondence may be sent to [email protected]. Mississippi Libraries Vol. 68, No. 1, Spring 2004 Page 20 News Briefs SELA WORKSHOP it brings the latest, most up-to-date CENTER FOR THE BOOK Coming to Orlando for the 2004 ALA research literally to their desktops.” ANNOUNCES STATEWIDE Annual Conference? Plan on attending Called DigiTop – or Digital Desktop – READING INITIATIVE “Assessment in Libraries: Practical the service now being demonstrated at The Mississippi Library Commission - approaches for creating a continuous Mitchell Memorial Library on the MSU Mississippi Center for the Book is pleased assessment environment” on Friday, June campus provides full-text electronic to announce “Mississippi Reads,” a 25, 2004, sponsored by SELA and access to resources in the agricultural sci- statewide reading initiative. Scheduled to FACRL. ences, as well as reference and article begin April 1, this project is designed to This popular one-day workshop devel- delivery services. The project also is test- encourage Mississippians to read and dis- ops the concepts of creating workable ing the feasibility, costs and effectiveness cuss the same book during 2004. Book assessment plans based upon national of the system, with the goal of potentially discussions, programs, and other theme- standards and an institution’s individual expanding to other universities. “Missis- related activities will be held in public mission statement. The presenters will be sippi State was selected because of its sig- libraries around the state. Dr. Bill Nelson, Library Director at Augus- nificant agricultural instructional and Susan Vreeland’s Girl in Hyacinth ta State University and Dr. Bob Fernekes, research programs,” Young said. MSU Blue was selected to complement the Information Services Librarian at Georgia Dean of Libraries Frances N. Coleman “Glory of Baroque Dresden” exhibition Southern University. They have served said DigiTop “will greatly enhance our currently on display in Jackson. Girl on the ACRL College Libraries Section ability to support instructional, research shares the same historical theme and peri- (CLS) Standards Committee, which Dr. and extension programs by electronically od as the exhibition. The book offers read- Nelson currently chairs. Both have been linking us with NAL, the principal U.S. ers of all ages many opportunities for appointed to the new ACRL College and source for information about food, agri- learning through history, art, and litera- Research Libraries Standards Task Force, culture and natural resources.” For MSU ture. Vreeland presents a beautiful and where the CLS, ULS, and CJCLS sec- agricultural researchers spread among haunting story centering on a Dutch paint- tions are working together for a common Mississippi’s 82 counties, the project will ing of a young girl, possibly an undiscov- set of standards for all academic libraries. mean easy access to thousands of current ered Vermeer. Nelson and Fernekes have also co- journals and newspapers, said Vance Ms. Vreeland will visit Mississippi on: authored a text on the subject, titled Stan- Watson, MSU vice president for agricul- ■ Tuesday, March 23, 7:00 p.m. – dards and Assessment for Academic ture, forestry and veterinary medicine. Oxford Public Library, Oxford Libraries: a Workbook (ACRL, 2002). “Electronic access through DigiTop will ■ Wednesday, March 24, 7:00 p.m. – As details about the workshop become improve research productivity of MSU Arts Pavilion, Jackson available, they will be posted on the SELA agricultural researchers and will ultimately ■ Thursday, March 25, 11:30 a.m. – Web site http://sela.lib.ucf.edu/. Look benefit all Mississippians,” Watson added. The Library of Hattiesburg, Petal & for complete information in the spring The MSU Libraries already partici- Forrest County, Hattiesburg issue of The Southeastern Librarian. pates in the NAL’s Agricultural Online “Mississippi Reads” is a partnership of Access, or AGRICOLA, which contains the Mississippi Humanities Council, the MISSISSIPPI STATE UNIVERSITY bibliographic records of materials Mississippi Commission for International AND THE NATIONAL acquired by NAL and cooperating institu- Cultural Exchange, Inc., and Friends of AGRICULTURAL LIBRARY tions in agricultural and related sciences. Mississippi Libraries, Inc. A unique collaboration between Missis- The National Agricultural Library The Mississippi Center for the Book is a sippi State and the Maryland-based (http://www.nal.usda.gov) is part of the division of the Mississippi Library Commis- National Agricultural Library is allowing Agricultural Research Service, the U.S. sion and an affiliate of the Library of Mississippi researchers easier and faster Department of Agriculture’s primary agen- Congress Center for the Book program. access to the most recent science-based cy for scientific study. For more informa- The mission of the Center for the Book is to agricultural information available. In a tion, contact Frances N. Coleman at (662) celebrate Mississippi’s rich literary heritage recent campus ceremony, University Pres- 325-7661; Vance H. Watson, at 325- through reading, writing and the book arts. ident Charles Lee and NAL director Peter 3005; or Len Carrey, at (302) 504-6778. R. Young officially inaugurated the first-of- its-kind partnership between the Bethesda First Regional Library System’s Camera Brigade, facility – the world’s leading repository of pictured left to right: Catherine Nathan (FRL Head- agricultural materials – and MSU. “This quarters), Millee Wrenn (Tunica), Stewart Carpen- demonstration project will provide MSU ter (Walls), Tenise Faulkner (Coldwater), Barbara Evans (Batesville), Marty Coleman (FRL Headquar- faculty members, researchers and students ters), Charlene Bradford (Sardis) and Linda Jowers the ability to access leading resources (Southaven). FRL received a grant that provided electronically,” Lee said. “Through NAL, digital cameras for each branch. Page 21 Vol. 68, No. 1, Spring 2004 Mississippi Libraries About Books
Mary Stanton. Freedom Walk: Missis- in a society which distrusted all three.” Barnett to Waller, the changes in the sippi or Bust. Jackson, MS: University She traces his mental trips that led him to Sovereignty Commission’s activities and Press of Mississippi, 2003. 254 pp. venture into a freedom walk in the days focus under Director Erle K. Johnston $28.00 hardcover. when white activism was not only unfash- provide insight into the Civil Rights ionable but outright dangerous. Through Movement. Mary Stanton’s the experience of Shirah, she explores the This work is an important reference Freedom Walk is ironic impact of white activism and the tool for Mississippi history, and its foot- a well-researched struggle within the movement itself. This notes and index are extensive. The Mis- and well-written book helps to clarify some distortions and sissippi State Sovereignty Commission book that brings oversimplifications that can obscure our brings life to what could have otherwise heroic and almost understanding of this turbulent time. been dry historical documentation, but forgotten events in This well-documented historical Katagiri’s descriptions are not sensational- the early part of account is a fine addition to the history of ized. The Commission’s operational Civil Rights Move- the Civil Rights Movement and to the his- details provide the perspective of the Civil ment back to our tory of the South. It is highly recom- Rights Movement from an angle seldom memory. The mended to all readers who are interested seen. For example, on the subject of book consists of two parts. The first part, in the Civil Rights Movement and South- black informants, the focus is on their The Postman’s Walk, is about Bill ern history. activities rather than the information they Moore, a white postman, who set out gathered. This approach keeps the read- from Chattanooga, Tennessee on April Daisy Cheng er focused on the historical context and 21, 1963, and intended to walk along Catalog Librarian significance of the Commission and how US Highway 11 through Georgia, Alaba- University of Mississippi it operated. ma, and on to Jackson, Mississippi, to Recommended for all public libraries deliver a letter appealing for racial toler- and academic libraries as an important ance to Governor Ross Barnett. Three Katagiri, Yasuhiro. The Mississippi chronicle of Mississippi’s history. Anoth- days into his walk, he was shot dead on State Sovereignty Commission: Civil er title covering some of this era is Neil R. Highway 11 outside Attala, Alabama. Rights and States’ Rights. Jackson: Uni- McMillen’s The Citizens’ Council: Orga- Floyd Simpson, a white Alabama grocer versity Press of Mississippi, 2001. 348 nized Resistance to the Second Recon- and a Klansman, was charged with pp. $42.00. struction, 1954-1964. Moore’s murder. Simpson was eventual- ly acquitted. The second part of the Yasuhiro Kata- Kay L. Wall book, The Freedom Walk, is about a giri’s work is an University Librarian white college student, Sam Shirah, who information-rich The University of Southern Mississippi upon hearing the news of Moore’s mur- account of the der, led five black and four white activists years following the from the Student Nonviolent Coordinat- 1954 Brown v. Lee, Joe. On the Record. Mississippi: ing Committee and Congress of Racial the Board of Edu- Dogwood Press, 2002. 271 pp. $19.95. Equality into Alabama to finish Moore’s cation decision hardcover walk. They were badly beaten and jailed that precipitated outside Gadsden, Alabama. Four subse- the establishment At the age of quent attempts to complete the postman’s of the Mississippi 34, Maureen Lewis march were unsuccessful. Sovereignty Commission in 1956 until its has worked her The book is more than a plain story dissolution in 1973. The Sovereignty way up through about these events. Through the journal Commission’s roles as watchdog agency the ranks to that Bill Moore kept during the Walk, and promoter of segregation are carefully become the Con- along with interviews and extensive news- documented by Katagiri. By using the sumer Protection paper and newsreel reports, Mary Stanton only existing records of such a state agen- Director for the has documents this overlooked civil rights cy (similar agency records from other Mississippi Attor- freedom walk as seen through the eyes of Southern states were destroyed), Katagiri ney General’s Moore, Shirah, and Simpson. She exam- provides an accurate recount of Mississip- Office. When her ines the complicated life of Moore as “an pi’s darkest historical period. Spanning Consumer Protection Act is signed into economic failure, a loner, and an atheist gubernatorial reigns from Coleman to law, allowing her department to take Mississippi Libraries Vol. 68, No. 1, Spring 2004 Page 22
2004 MLA Conference stronger actions toward fighting con artists and deceptive business practices Committees within the state, she investigates a large car dealership as her first target. Enjoy this year’s conference by working with colleagues from around the Unknown to Maureen, the operator of state on a conference committee. It’s not too late to volunteer, just send an E-mail this particular dealership is involved in an with your contact information to MLA Vice President Susan S. Cassagne at embezzling scheme with members of the [email protected]. Attorney General’s office. EXHIBITS LOCAL ARRANGEMENTS (cont.) Pulled off the dealership case, Mau- ■ Kaylene Behm* ■ Molly Signs reen becomes angry and suspicious USM/Hattiesburg Millsaps College enough to begin a secret investigation of ■ Jerrie Hall* ■ Beth Rogers her own. This however, leads to her USM/Gulf Coast Natchez Convention &Visitors removal from the position of Consumer ■ Carol Green ■ Stratton Hall Protection Director to a position of lesser USM/Hattiesburg Natchez Convention & Visitors importance and power. Suspecting that ■ Molly Signs ■ Wendy Cartwright she has been set up, she resigns her Millsaps College position and takes her case to the media ■ Barton Spenser POSTER SESSIONS through her friend Janine May, Jackson USM/Hattiesburg ■ Carol Green* Times staff writer. Her actions start the ■ Laura Simpson USM/Hattiesburg ball rolling toward the ending of careers USM/Hattiesburg ■ Daisy Cheng in many high offices, including that of her ■ Miao Jin University of MS previous employer, Attorney General USM/Hattiesburg ■ Lona Hoover Frank Cash. Maureen also finds herself ■ Allisa Beck MS State University and two of her dear friends in danger. USM/Gulf Coast ■ Margaret Jane Stauble Lee’s development of the character of Hinds Community Coll. Maureen Lewis, an honest, hard-working GENERAL VOLUNTEER ■ Sheila Cork young woman, creates a very likeable ■ Daisy Cheng Hancock Cty. Lib. System heroine. On the Record is Joe Lee’s first University of MS ■ Robert Fowler novel, and readers will agree it should not ■ Lynn Shurden MS State University be his last. Lee develops well thought- MS Library Commission out plots and circumstances for his char- ■ Missie Craig REGISTRATION acters, and pits good against evil with Carnegie Pub. Lib. of Clarksdale ■ Kaileen Thieling* excellent results. ■ Molly Signs Central MS Regional Lib. Sys. ■ This book is highly recommended for Millsaps College Carol Green ■ all Mississippi libraries, especially those Yvonne Stanford USM/Hattiesburg ■ with a large demand for a good mystery. Coahoma Community Coll. Chuck McClure Quitman Upper Elem. School ■ Donna P. Fite HOSPITALITY Daisy Cheng ■ Molly Signs* University of MS Purvis Branch Manager ■ Lamar County Library System Millsaps College Jacqueline Quinn ■ Chuck McClure Hinds Community Coll. — ❖ — Quitman Upper Elem. School ■ June Garner MS State LOCAL ARRANGEMENTS ■ Kathleen Wells Editors’ Correction: The review ■ Nancy McLemore* USM/Hattiesburg of Christmas Stories from Mis- Copiah Lincoln Comm. Coll. ■ Margaret Jane Stauble sissippi which appeared in the ■ Casey Hughes Hinds Community Coll. Winter 2003 issue was written Natchez Adams Wilk. Cty. Lib. ■ Missie Craig by Donna Phelps Fite, Purvis ■ Jennifer Smith Carnegie Pub. Lib., Clarksdale Branch Manager, Lamar County Warren Cty. Vicksburg Public ■ Molly Signs Library System, not Tracy ■ Kathy Buntin Millsaps College Englert. MS Library Commission Page 23 Vol. 68, No. 1, Spring 2004 Mississippi Libraries About Children’s Books MICHAEL L. PRINTZ AWARDS, 2004 to good-looking but dull Ralph Loomis, her obnoxious. Almost immediately, Troy is The Michael L. Printz Award honors a friendship with Weaver, and the mystery of given a fantasy opportunity to become a high school librarian in Topeka, Kansas a young woman’s death. Donnelly sets drummer for genius guitarist Curt McCrae, who enthusiastically promoted quality Mattie’s story in the midst of a true tragedy, who stopped Troy from committing suicide. books for young adults. Each year the the drowning of pregnant Grace Brown by The last time Troy played the drums, he was award is given to a book that exemplifies her lover. While working during the sum- in seventh grade. Troy figures the offer is literary excellence in young adult literature, mer at a nearby resort, Mattie is surprised to too good to be true. Curt is homeless, a published in English in the previous year. have a bundle of letters suddenly thrust into product of a dysfunctional family, and a In 2000 the Young Adult Library Services her hands by Grace, who has been staying druggie, but he sees a genuine quality in Association, a division of the American there with a man. Grace’s love letters are Troy that appeals to him. This is more than Library Association, gave the first award to the catalyst that propels Mattie away from a story about an overweight teen. Although Monster by Walter Dean Myers. the farm to seek her dream. Already Mattie Troy and Curt are unlikely friends, they has been accepted to Barnard College. learn from each other and gain self-respect. Johnson, Angela. The First Part Last. This is a complex tale skillfully weaving sev- Despite the surreal, coincidental aspects of New York: Simon and Schuster Books for eral seemingly unrelated lives into an the story, the unusual characters and the Young Readers, 2003. 131pp. $15.95. understandable pattern. Based on the true punk rock scene will fascinate readers. On his sixteenth birthday Bobby’s girl- story that inspired Theodore Dreiser to friend, Nia, tells him she’s pregnant with his write An American Tragedy, the novel will Mackler, Carolyn. The Earth, My child. After the birth of their baby girl, Feath- appeal to fans of historical fiction as well as Butt, and Other Big Round Things. er, Bobby refuses to give her up for adop- readers who appreciate the tensions and tri- Cambridge, Mass.: Candlewick Press, tion, leaving him a single parent with much umphs of ordinary people. 2003. 246pp. $15.99. to learn about parenthood. Bobby’s fascina- At first this novel seems like another sad tion with his baby and his devotion to her is Frost, Helen. Keesha’s House. story about an unhappy, misunderstood, clear. “Her hands are translucent and warm. Frances Foster Books/Farrar, Straus and overweight girl wallowing in her misery. Baby hands. Warm, sweet-smelling baby Giroux, 2003. 116pp. $16.00. Her best friend, Shannon, has moved to hands. And all I can do is kiss them and pull This novel in verse follows the lives of Seattle temporarily, and Froggy Welsh man- her closer so she won’t see my face and how seven teens who find a safe house to live aged a few kisses and some awkward grop- scared I am.” In alternating chapters readers in. The house in an inner-city neighbor- ing that ended after one month. Virginia experience Bobby’s life as a teenage father hood belongs to Joe, but once Keesha Shreves, fifteen years old, alternately resents with flashbacks to his life leading up to his stays there, escaping a drunken father, and admires her thin, good-looking family. daughter’s birth. The Printz Award Commit- she begins to gather others in need: Ste- She admires her older brother the most until tee comments, “Bobby’s voice comes strong phie, who’s pregnant; Jason, Stephie’s he’s accused of date rape at Columbia and and poignant, pulling readers into the boyfriend; Dontay, running from foster is suspended from classes for a semester. heartache, confusion, and insecurity.” With care; Carmen, arrested on a DUI charge; Virginia attends a private Manhattan school spare language and no sentimentality, John- Harris, gay and disowned by his father; where the girls are thin, which adds to her son shows readers the male viewpoint of and Katie, escaping an abusive stepfather. self-pity and poor self-image. Briefly, she is teen pregnancy and child care. Keesha’s words: “I go to school, I work, driven to mild forms of self-mutilation. I eat okay and get to bed/on time. I Gradually, Virginia begins to examine her MICHAEL L. PRINTZ thought Child Welfare might ask ques- life and the lives of those around her with HONOR BOOKS tions,/but as long as they don’t pay atten- the dawning realization that even popular Donnelly, Jennifer. A Northern Light. tion, I can stay.” In sonnets and sestinas, students and successful parents have prob- Orlando, Fla.: Harcourt, Inc., 2003. Frost captures each teen’s voice and lets lems. This novel is a lengthier version of 389pp. $17.00. them speak about their fears and dreams. Paula Danziger’s Dinky Hocker Shoots Fractious, somniferous, obstreperous, Smack, complete with a mother who works furtive. Mattie Gokey learns a new word Going, K. L. Fat Kid Rules the World. with teens and their problems while remain- every day. Her dream is to attend college New York: G. P. Putnam’s Sons, 2003. ing oblivious to her own daughter’s true and become a writer, not easy for a young 183pp. $17.99. nature. woman in 1906, growing up in poverty on Going throws readers into the miserable a farm in the Adirondacks. There are other world of Troy, a 6' 1", 296-pound, seven- Rosemary Chance compelling elements in Mattie’s life: her teen-year-old high school senior. His moth- Assistant Professor, SLIS mother’s death, her father’s unhappiness, er is dead, his father is a rigid ex-military The University of Southern Mississippi the needs of her three sisters, her attraction man, and his little brother is athletic and [email protected] Mississippi Libraries Vol. 68, No. 1, Spring 2004 Page 24 MLA Executive Board Meeting Minutes
DECEMBER 12, 2003 conference with the North Carolina Library Associ- Vice-President/President elect. B. Beal seconded. ation meeting in Charlotte. The meeting will be The motion passed unanimously. BOARD MEMBERS ATTENDING from November 9th through 13th. She also B. Action Item: Appointment of Susan Cas- Prima Plauché, President announced that SELA would be hosting, “Assess- sagne as 2004 Vice-president/President Helen J. Flanders, Vice-President/President-elect ment in Libraries: Practical Approaches for Creat- Elect – P. Plauché deferred to B. Beal, MLA Jennifer Smith, Treasurer ing a Continuous Assessment Environment,” a pre- Parliamentarian concerning the replacement of an Sara Morris, Secretary conference at ALA. More information about the open officer position. B. Beal reported that Billy Beal, ALA Councilor program can be found on the SELA website. according to Article 1, Section B, of the MLA By- Glenda Segars, SELA Councilor H. Executive Secretary – No Report laws that for any unfilled office, except for Presi- Terry Latour, Past President I. ML Co-Editors – P. Plauché reported that the dent, the Executive Board can appoint an individu- Sandy Hayes, Special Libraries Chair editors are in the final stages of preparing the win- al to fill the vacancy. G. Segars moved to appoint Gretchen Cook, ACRL Chair ter issue. It will be mailed during the first week of Susan Cassagne Vice-President/President-Elect by Randy Sherard, Trustee Chair January. the provisions made in Article 1, Section B of the Mississippi Library Association By-laws. S. Hayes Others in Attendance II. SECTION REPORTS seconded. The motion passed unanimously. S. Mary Julia Anderson, Executive Secretary A. ACRL – G. Cook announced that the new Presi- Cassagne who was present accepted her new posi- Linda McKay, Financial Management Committee dent of ACRL is Peggy Price. The new Vice tion. Freda Hartness, State Friends Chair/ Chair Elect is Jana Hudson Breeden. The C. Action Item: EBSCO proposal for rights Allison Mays, MS Authors Award new Secretary/Treasure is Stephen Turner. and permissions for ML to be included in Jane Webster, Special Libraries Section B. Public Libraries – No Report. P. Plauché EBSCO databases – P. Plauché asked Randy Molly Signs, Web Committee reported that Deborah Lundy is the new chair of Sherard for his comments concerning the docu- Peggy Price, ACRL Section the Public Libraries Section. ment from EBSCO. R. Sherard commented that Susan Cassagne C. School Libraries – No Report paragraphs 5.2 and 5.3 state that MLA indemnifies Bettie Cox, School Library Section D. Special Libraries – Sandy Hayes reported that EBSCO Publishing, however MLA does not have the section had a small business meeting at confer- those resources. R. Sherard suggests that we ask President Plauché called the meeting to order at 10:07 ence. Anne Lipscomb Webster is the new Chair. for the removal of these paragraphs. Paragraph a.m. A quorum was declared and the agenda presented. Clara Joorfetz is Vice Chair. Secretary is Ann Bel- 6.1 on page four has a line missing. This needs to President Plauché asked for a motion to amend the agenda lenger. be corrected. On the final page the document to include under New Business section D, Accept LSTA E. Trustees – No Report needs to read the “laws of Mississippi” not those of Grant for National Library Week; Authorize Vice-President “Massachusetts.” R. Sherard recommended that Flanders to sign grant agreement. T. Latour moved to III. OLD BUSINESS ML obtain a waver or release from all authors to accept the change to the agenda. J. Smith seconded. The A. Action Item: Resignation of Kaileen Thiel- grant permissions dealing with copyright and motion passed unanimously. ing, 2004 Vice-President/President Elect database inclusion. T. Latour commented that at – P. Plauché announced to the board that Kaileen one point ML did have a form and should reinstate I. OFFICERS’ AND STAFF REPORTS Theiling had submitted her resignation as the this policy. P. Plauché thanked R. Sherard for his A. Secretary – Minutes of the previous Board 2004 Vice-President/President Elect. P. Plauché comments. The issue of royalty was raised by a meeting were distributed and reviewed. J. Smith read the following to the Board: number of different individuals. T. Latour ques- moved to accept the minutes. G. Segars second- 12/8/03 tioned what “royalties will be equal to twenty per- ed. The motion passed unanimously. It is with great regret that I tender my resigna- cent (20%) of the net revenue collection for inclu- B. Treasurer – Treasurer Smith submitted the Mis- tion as Vice President/President-Elect of the Mis- sion of Content from the Publications on Products sissippi Library Association Balance Sheet as of sissippi Library Association for 2004. When I sold.” R. Sherard suggested that EBSCO include November 30, 2003. The sheet showed agreed to run for office in January of 2003 and in the final contract an appendix with an example $110,571.66 as liabilities and equity with a net when I was elected in April 2003, my life was vast- of how this would work. J. Smith commented that income for the year of $37,685.68. This sheet ly different. in 2003 MLA had received $384 in subscription does not reflect reimbursement for the speakers’ In October 2003, my eighty-four year old fees. B. Beal made a motion to adopt a resolution grant – MLA should get $6,403.81 before the end mother fell. She cracked a rib and fractured a ver- requesting the 2004 board to seek clarification in of the year. These totals do not reflect all expenses tebra. We have spent hours visiting doctors and both language and contractual issues in the license for the conference. There will be some profit from having tests done. She is currently in physical agreement and than consider its adoption. R. the conference. J. Smith commented that Com- therapy three days a week. However, we are not Sherard seconded. The motion passed unani- mittee Chairs are updating their accounts as they optimistic that this is going to help. As the only mously. work on their annual reports. J. Smith also report- child and caregiver, her care and treatment must be D. Action Item: Amend Natchez Convention ed that MLA has 649 members. S. Morris moved my top priority. Site Contract – P. Plauché recommended that to accept the treasurer’s report. J. Flanders sec- After much deliberation and prayer, I know the Natchez Convention Site contract be modified onded. The motion passed unanimously. that at this point, I cannot give the Mississippi from a block of 200 rooms to 300 rooms. In the C. President – P. Plauché reported that her activi- Library Association the time and energy that is past few years the MLA conference has required ties are reflected in other areas of the agenda. She required to provide a convention that is second to more rooms than 200. T. Latour asked which has been working with J. Flanders to make the none. I apologize to all those who placed their hotels MLA is using. The main hotel will be the transition in leadership. faith in me by according me this honor. I would Isle of Capri with The Comfort Inn and the Ramada D. Vice President – J. Flanders reported that strongly recommend that Susan Cassagne be taking in the overflow. Discussion ensued con- there were 600 individuals in attendance at this appointed to replace me. Susan has already done cerning the ability to cancel rooms if they are not year’s MLA conference. 98 of these 600 were first a great deal of work as local arrangements chair- booked. T. Latour moved to amend the Natchez time attendees. She thanked the Mississippi person. The CMRLS staff and I will do all that we contract from 200 to 300 rooms if the contract can Library Commission for the speakers’ grant that can to assist her. also be modified to contain language that allows for made it possible to get some excellent speakers. Sincerely, the cancellation of rooms without obligation by a P. Plauché also thanked everyone for their hard Kaileen R. Thieling specified date. J. Smith seconded. The motion work on making the conference a success. Director passed unanimously. J. Smith moved to approve E. Past President – No Report Central MS Regional Library System the following as the official 2004 conference F. ALA Councilor – No Report hotels: Isle of Capri, Comfort Inn, and Ramada G. SELA Representative – G. Segars reminded J. Smith moved to accept Kaileen Theiling’s Inn. R. Sherard seconded. The motion passed everyone that the 2004 SELA conference is a joint resignation as 2004 Mississippi Library Association unanimously. Page 25 Vol. 68, No. 1, Spring 2004 Mississippi Libraries
IV. NEW BUSINESS In a brief summary of the legislative activities IX. OTHER BUSINESS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS A. Action Item: Approve submitting request for the year, S. Smith commented that this year P. Plauché thanked everyone for their support and for quotations for 2004 conference even there are many unknown factors. There are new commitment during her presidency. She and MJ insurance – P. Plauché announced that the individuals in statewide offices as well as the legisla- Anderson presented those leaving the board plaques Natchez Convention Center does not provide an ture. MLA Legislative day will be on February 3rd. recognizing their contributions to MLA. event insurance rider. The Insurance Committee Morning and afternoon activities will take place at investigated obtaining event insurance and identi- the Agriculture and Forestry Museum. The day is X. ADJOURNMENT fied the following companies as possible insurers: scheduled to start at 10:00 a.m. with an opportuni- There being no further business by the board, a motion RVNuccio & Associates, Sporting Insurance, and ty for committees to meet or for individuals to was duly made, seconded and unanimously passed to Galescreek Insurance. Estimated cost is approxi- attend a program on an art exhibit that is coming to adjourn. The board adjourned at 11:48 a.m. mately $300 and the Fiscal Management Commit- Jackson. At 11:00 a.m. the Legislative Committee tee is aware of this cost. R. Sherard suggested that will meet. At 1:30 p.m., the MLA President will Respectfully submitted, MLA obtain quotes from all three. This way we speak. Awards will be given at 1:45 p.m. Forty- Sara E. Morris, Secretary will be able to compare costs and build a relation- five minutes later the invited speaker will give his ship with a company in case we need this type of talk. A speaker has not been confirmed as yet. coverage in the future. T. Latour moved to request After a 3:30 p.m. break, the legislative update will DECEMBER 12, 2003 a quotation from all three companies for the liability be given at 4:00 p.m. The reception at the Eudora insurance for the 2004 conference. S. Hayes sec- Wetly will be from 6 to 8:00 p.m. The theme this BOARD MEMBERS ATTENDING: onded. The motion passed unanimously. year is Mississippi’s future @ your library. Material Juanita Flanders, President B. Action Item: Authorize J. Flanders to sign about this event will be going out in December. Susan Cassagne, Vice President/President Elect contracts with the Vicksburg Convention The committee is also planning district legisla- Jennifer Smith, Treasurer Center and select hotels – P. Plauché stated tive days. Librarians from different areas of the state Allison Mays, Secretary that the MLA handbook Chapter 1, Vice Presi- will be invited to attend legislative sessions through- Prima Plauché, Immediate Past President dent/President-Elect Conference Duties II. F2, out the entire session. This will keep libraries and Mary Beth Applin, SELA Councilor grants permission for contracts to be signed by the librarians on the minds of the legislators. More Peggy Price, ACRL Chair incoming president. In reviewing the Vicksburg information about this new program is forthcoming. Bettie Cox, School Libraries Chair contract R. Sherard recommended that we modify E. National Library Week Grant – R. Sherard Randy Sherard, Trustee Section Chair the paragraph concerning insurance. Also the state- moved that J. Flanders be authorized to sign the Anne Lipscomb Webster, Special Libraries Chair ments about security need to be examined. MLA $8,500 National Library Week from the Mississip- [not present: Robert Lipscomb, Deborah Lundy] does not need to be tied into having a certain num- pi Library Commission if it is awarded. B. Beal ber of security officers per person. He feels it is seconded. The motion passed unanimously. Others in attendance: possible to talk to the convention sales representa- Fred Hartness, FML tives and get this modified. B. Beal suggested that Molly Signs, Web Committee these issues be taken care of by the 2004 Board. V. COMMITTEE REPORTS Nancy Tenhet R. Sherard moved to authorize signing of the con- A. Archives & History – No Report Mary Julia Anderson, Executive Secretary tract contingent on further review by legal council B. MLA Awards – No Report Terry Latour, Delta State University and with better contract language. G. Segars sec- C. Conservation – No Report Linda McKay, Fiscal Management onded. The motion passed unanimously. D. Constitution, By-Laws & Organizational C. 2003 Fiscal Management Committee Annu- Review – No Report President Flanders called the meeting to order at 11:55. al Report – L. McKay, Chair, Fiscal Manage- E. Continuing Education – No Report The agenda was presented and a quorum was declared. ment Committee reported that the Fiscal Manage- F. Copyright – No Report ment Committee met on December 11, 2003 at G. Election – No Report I. INTRODUCTIONS the Eudora Welty library. Twelve MLA members H. Handbook – No Report The following persons were introduced: were present. Missy Lee, MLA bookkeeper, pre- I. Insurance – No Report A. New Board Members sented a financial report through December 8, J. Membership – No Report B. Round-Table Chairpersons 2003. L. McKay and the committee reviewed the K. Intellectual Freedom – No Report C. Committee Chairpersons 2003 budget and adopted a proposed 2004 bud- L. Information Literacy – No Report D. Nancy Tenhet, as the new Parliamentarian, non-vot- get. A motion came from the standing committee M. Credentials – No Report ing member of the Board to accept the budget as presented. R. Sherard sec- N. Mississippi Authors Award – A. Mays onded. The motion passed unanimously. L. announced that the committee had received the II. OFFICER AND STAFF REPORTS Mckay also recommended that P. Plauché, J. Flan- two video copies of the awards dinner. One will be None given at this time. ders, and J. Smith go to the bank after the meeting archived by MLA and the other added to the collec- to change the signature cards on the checking tion at MLC. III. COMMITTEE REPORTS account. These cards would be held until the first O. MLA Children’s/Young Adult Awards – A. Legislative Day Activities Report – Since this of the year as the 2003 board in office until No Report was covered in the previous board meeting, it was December 31, 2003. S. Morris seconded. The P. Publications – No Report not discussed at this time. motion passed unanimously. L. McKay also Q. Publicity – P. Plauché announced that Mary announced that the Fiscal Management Committee Perkins is working on the next electronic newslet- IV. OLD BUSINESS will examine MLA’s CD investments at their next ter. Please submit any information to be included. None discussed. quarterly meeting as low interest rates have resulted R. Scholarship – No Report in lower than expected income.” S. Web Page – No Report. V. NEW BUSINESS D. MLC Report – S. Smith gave a brief report con- None discussed cerning MLC activities. In recent weeks, worm VIII.ROUND TABLE REPORTS virus issues in the MissIn Network that affected A. Black Caucus – No Report VI. ANNOUNCEMENTS public libraries. Technicians have been working to B. ECTRT – No Report J. Flanders will send out the dates of the future board clean and repair all affected systems. S. Smith C. Friends/MS Libraries – F. Hartness reported meetings via email. announced she would recommend that the MLC that the Friends are prepared to help with the board grant two different grants to MLA. The first events of Legislative Day. She also reported that VII. ADJOURNMENT is for $8,500 to support MLA Legislative Day pro- the Friends conference programs were very suc- There being no further business by the board, a motion gramming and National Library Week public rela- cessful. was duly made, seconded and unanimously passed to tions material. The second is a $10,000 speakers D. GODORT – No Report adjourn. The board adjourned at 12:05. grant for the MLA conference. MLC is conducting E. LIRT – No Report numerous continuing education programs through- F. NMRT – No Report Respectfully submitted, out the state. During January there will be a series G. TSRT – No Report Allison P. Mays, Secretary on how libraries can measure their contribution to H. SPRT – No Report the community. S. Smith also announced that the I. 2YCRT – No Report new building is coming along and they hope to J. YPSRT – No Report move in during the fall of 2004. MISSISSIPPI LIBRARY B. SECTIONS Enter “FREE” for one section membership. (Enter $6.00 for ASSOCIATION additional sections.) Academic (ACRL) $______MEMBERSHIP FORM Public $______School $______MEMBERSHIP YEAR Special $______Trustee $______ 2004 (January-December 2004) B. SECTIONS SUBTOTAL $______
Name ______C. ROUNDTABLES Library ______Join one or more roundtables for opportunities in professional Position______growth $3.00 EACH. Mailing address ______ANRT $______City______State ______(Automation and Networking) Zip______BLACK CAUCUS $______Home Phone ______ECTRT $______Business Phone ______(Educational Communication and Tech) Fax ______GODORT $______E-mail ______(Government Documents) Type of Library______LIRT $______(Library Instruction) New Membership Renewal NMRT $______(New Members) A. MEMBERSHIP TYPES SCRT $______Membership (Any person currently working in a library or (Special Collections) information center or those who provide support for its many TSRT $______services. Mark by salary range or current library affiliation) (Technical Services) 2YCRT $______$0 to $9,999 $15 per year $______(2 Year College) $10,000 to $19,999 $25 per year $______YPSRT $______$20,000 to $29,999 $35 per year $______(Young People’s Services) $30,000 to $39,999 $45 per year $______C. ROUNDTABLES SUBTOTAL $______$40,000 to $49,999 $50 per year $______$50,000 to $59,999 $55 per year $______D. SCHOLARSHIP $60,000 or above $60 per year $______Donation to Peggy May Scholarship $______Student Full or Part-time Donation to Virgia Brock-Shedd Scholarship $______(2 Year Limit) $10 per year $______D. SCHOLARSHIP SUBTOTAL $______Retired $15 per year $______Trustee $15 per year $______GRAND MLA TOTAL Friend of Library $15 per year $______(DUES GRAND TOTAL (A+B+C) AND Institutional Membership $45 per year $______SCHOLARSHIP D) $______Vendor $40 per year $______Lifetime membership Check enclosed (Make payable to Mississippi Library Associa- One-time payment $1000 $______tion) and mail to MLA, P.O. Box 20448, Jackson MS 39289- Installment Plan 1448. All dues include subscription to Mississippi Payable up to 5 years $1250-$250/year $______Libraries. Please charge my MLA dues to my: A. MEMBERSHIP TYPES SUBTOTAL $______ VISA MasterCard Account Number ______Expiration Date______Signature______Dues must be paid by January 15 in order to receive the March issue of Mississippi Libraries and for annual election of officers. http://www.misslib.org/ MLA may at times supply its membership list to professional organizations or 601.352.3917 Fax 601.352.4240 library vendors. Check the box if you do not want your name included. Mississippi Library Association NON-PROFIT Post Office Box 20448 ORGANIZATION U. S. POSTAGE Jackson, Mississippi 39289-1448 P A I D PERMIT NO. 312 HATTIESBURG, MISSISSIPPI