Keepsake Edition Literacy and Learning and to Ensure Access to Information in the Common- Wealth of Virginia

Virginia Libraries is a quarterly journal VLA CENTENNIAL published by the Virginia Library Asso- ciation whose purpose is to develop, promote, and improve library and information services and the profession of librarianship in order to advance Keepsake Edition literacy and learning and to ensure access to information in the Common- wealth of Virginia. The journal, distributed to the membership, is used as a vehicle for members to exchange information, ideas, and solutions to mutual prob- Virginia lems in professional articles on current topics in the library and information field. Views expressed inVirginia Librar- ies are not necessarily endorsed by the editor or editorial board. The Virginia Library Association (VLA) holds the copyright on all articles published in Virginia Libraries whether Libraries the articles appear in print or electronic July/August/September, 2005, Vol. 51, No. 3 format. Material may be reproduced for informational, educational, or rec- reational purposes provided the source Ruth E. Kifer 3 President’s Column of the material is cited. The print version of Virginia Libraries is designed by Lamp-Post Publicity in Meherrin, Virginia. The electronic version of Vir- Section 1: VLA in Perspective ginia Libraries is created by Virginia Alyssa Altshuler 5 The Virginia Library Association: Tech’s Digital Library and Archives and A Retrospective is available at http://scholar.lib.vt.edu/ Alyssa Altshuler 11 Officers of the Virginia Library Association ejournals/VALib or as a link from the Greg S. Grunow 15 A VLA Conference Retrospective Virginia Library Association web site at http://www.vla.org. Virginia Librar- ies is indexed in Library Literature, a database produced by the H.W. Wilson Section 2: Paraprofessionals and Partnerships Company. Donna Gant 21 The Paraprofessional Forum Sandra Gioia Treadway 29 A Century of Partnership: LVA and VLA Items for publication and edito- Jim Gwin 35 The Win, Win Machine: Dennis Robison rial inquiries should be addressed to Reflects on VIVA, Undergraduate Libraries, the editor. Inquiries regarding mem- and Library Instruction bership, subscriptions, advertising, or claims should be directed to VLA, P.O. Box 8277, Norfolk, VA 23503- 0277. All personnel happenings and Section 3: VLA Awards announcements should be sent to the Alyssa Altshuler 38 Virginia Library Association Awards VLA Newsletter, Audrey M. Kelly, 2320 Sandra Shell 42 VLA Scholarship Winners Park Avenue, Richmond, VA 23220, [email protected], 804-359- 1925. Virginia Libraries is available by subscription at $25 per year. Section 4: VLA Publications Alyssa Altshuler 46 Publications of the Virginia Library Association The editors and staff are listed on the Cy Dillon and 48 A Particular Perspective: Our Editors Speak inside back cover. C. A. Gardner

JULY–SEPTEMBER, 2005 VIRGINIA LIBRARIES PAGE

PRESIDENT’S COLUMN Our Libraries: The Second Hundred Years, A Vision

by Ruth E. Kifer

n 1905, leaders in the library means, including carriage and bi- profession would have had cycle. When the cost of manufac- little way of knowing that in turing automobiles was decreased Ione hundred years the library as an in Henry Ford’s assembly line fac- institution would serve the role that tories, ownership of this mode of it does presently, or that the library transportation came within reach as a physical entity would look as of the average American. That de- it does today. Libraries in the first velopment dramatically changed decade of the twentieth century the culture and society of the were scholarly, quiet, intimidating, United States in ways that those elite, restrictive institutions that early automobile makers would not served primarily as warehouses of have been able to predict. Similar- books. Over the past one hundred ly, information technology today years, libraries of all kinds have is changing at an ever-faster pace, become more accessible, inclusive, making the future of libraries and service-focused, dynamic, learning- learning difficult to foretell. How- centered, and format neutral; and … today’s students are ever, we need to be able to see the they have become less restrictive, not the people that our information technology corollaries stuffy, elitist, and prescriptive. To- to the national highway system, day’s libraries provide 24/7 access educational systems were the need for automobile registra- to digital resources, offer commu- tion, cars dependent upon com- nity programming, teach users to designed to teach. puter chips, or GPS automotive effectively retrieve and use infor- navigational devices. mation, serve as community and The number of individuals who campus gathering places, and give physical spaces survive? Will the have never known a world without access to the universe of informa- book as a relevant medium for con- computers continues to grow, and tion available via the World Wide veying information, knowledge, that population mass of consum- Web. Both public and academic learning, understanding, entertain- ers, learners, teachers, parents, leg- libraries include teaching library ment, and discourse exist outside islators, and other library constitu- users lifelong learning skills as a of museums? Are we in 2005 any ents think and behave differently crucial part of their missions; and better equipped than the founders than those who came of age in an all libraries hold sacred their com- of VLA to peer into the future and earlier time. Marc Prensky, author mitment to provide open, uncen- predict the state of libraries one and producer of video games, ex- sored access to information. hundred years hence? plains in his writings that today’s Questions about the future of What we do know is that li- students are not the people that the library abound in library litera- braries have developed and grown our educational systems were de- ture and in conversations taking over the past one hundred years signed to teach. He refers to those place within the profession. Will in response to the changes and ad- who have grown up in a digital libraries as we know them exist in vancements in our society at large. world as “digital natives” and those ten, twenty, fifty, or more years? In 1905, although automobiles who have moved to the digital Will librarianship as a profession were owned by wealthy individu- world later in life as “digital immi- remain viable? Will libraries as als, most people traveled by other grants.”1 Librarian Sarah Ann Long, PAGE VIRGINIA LIBRARIES JULY–SEPTEMBER, 2005

building upon Prensky’s premise, human portals. Librarians will not are about lifelong learning, about suggests in a recent article that not only teach library users to navigate relationships, about community, only must our schools change to the information technology ter- about place, and, most important, meet the needs of students whose rain, but also be an important part about people. brains have actually developed in of the design and development of As we commence upon the next ways different than those of “digi- information systems that are more one hundred years of the Virginia tal immigrants,” but libraries must intuitive to “digital natives” so Library Association, I challenge all also change in order to remain that information literacy skills in- Virginia librarians to look beyond relevant.2 If Prensky and Long are struction will be embedded in the the library as we know it; to look correct, and I believe that they information resources themselves. beyond the perceived differences are, then our libraries, academic There are enormous challenges between public, school, univer- and public, must make dramatic facing librarians as we make this sity, and college libraries; to look changes, and quickly. In his 2004 transformation. Librarians must beyond the divisions between article, David W. Lewis challenges publishers and librarians; to look academic librarians to prepare to beyond our sometimes elitist view live in a library world shaped by …libraries are of the inadequacy of Google; to disruptive technologies. He coun- look beyond the current pool of sels that librarians must be ready about lifelong learning, prospective library recruits; and to diametrically change our orga- to effect change in our collective nizations, invest in new and some- about relationships, mindset and create libraries that times untested technologies, take about community, will truly be responsive to the calculated risks, and trust groups needs of the generations now born within the organization to develop about place, and, most into a digital world. We need not exploratory projects. Like Prensky compromise our underlying and and Long, he makes the important important, about people. historical mission and goals; rath- point that we must listen and act er, we must be willing to risk em- upon the needs of students (digi- ploying vastly different means to tal natives), not just their teachers become active players in the na- achieve the very same values held (digital immigrants).3 tional public policy debate sur- by our founders in 1905. The future of libraries is being rounding intellectual property and shaped by visionary leaders in licensing issues. We must partner Notes the profession today. These lead- with publishers, vendors, and leaders see libraries as gateways to ers such as Google so that libraries 1 Marc Prensky, “Digital Na- comprehensive digital collections, are proactive and not reactive. We tives, Digital Immigrants,” in Marc as institutions committed to ac- must engage our communities in Prensky — Writing [website] October cess to information resources and the planning, design, and imple- 2001 [cited 24 June 2005]; available not ownership of resources, as mentation of new technologies from http://www.marcprensky. valued community resources, as and services. We must reach out to com/writing. interactive learning centers, and our allies and prospective donors 2 Sarah Ann Long, “Digital Na- as institutions that have both re- in the public and the private sector tives: If You Aren’t One, Get to tained a physical place and built to provide enhanced funding for Know One,” New Library World 106 a ubiquitous virtual place in the our organizations. We must look to (2005): 187-189. community. In this future library the retail, entertainment, and mass 3 David W. Lewis, “The Innova- world, librarians will be not only media industries to help inform tor’s Dilemma: Disruptive Change collection developers, but also our efforts at creating library places and Academic Libraries,” Library content creators. Librarians will that are inviting, dynamic, and ex- Administration and Management 8 continue to be the preservers of citing for our library users. Libraries (2004): 68-74. VL our intellectual, scholarly, and cul- are and will continue to be about tural heritage, but they will also be much more than the information knowledge managers and serve as resources they provide — libraries Section 1: VLA in Perspective The Virginia Library Association: A Retrospective

by Alyssa Altshuler

Time has no divisions to mark its pas- replacing apprentice-based library sage, there is never a thunderstorm or training programs.3 blare of trumpets to announce the be- At the turn of the century, world ginning of a new month or year. Even events were occurring that would when a new century begins it is only ultimately reverberate through- we mortals who ring bells and fire off out the next century: President pistols. McKinley was assassinated in 1901 — Thomas Mann, “Whims of and was succeeded by Theodore Mercurius,” The Magic Mountain Roosevelt; the Wright brothers successfully tested their airplane at Kitty Hawk, North Carolina, in 1903; Henry Ford founded hen reflecting upon his car company in Detroit in the centennial cel- 1903; work began on the Pan- ebration of the ama Canal in 1904; and Albert WVirginia Library Association in Einstein proposed his theory of 2005, what resonates is view- relativity in 1905. It was during what has been achieved ing this time of great change over the past one hundred in the country that John P. years in light of the vicissitudes Terry Sumey, a VLA Honorary Life Kennedy, Virginia State Librar- of historical, cultural, and econom- Member, is a public library trustee ian, decided to spearhead the ef- ic events in Virginia and the world. whose financial expertise has been cru- fort to organize librarians formally Since its founding in 1905, VLA has cial in preparing the association for its in Virginia. He called a meeting in grown in number; expanded the second century. Richmond in December 1905, and scope of its organization; engaged the newly formed group adopted a legislatively at the state and federal constitution and the name Virginia level; provided its members with and pursuit of a common goal.1 Library Association. The constitu- newsletters, scholarly journals, and ALA’s charter followed in 1879, tion stated, “We, citizens of Vir- a website; and supported library stating that these individuals, in- ginia, believing that library facili- education, training, and outreach. cluding five additional members, ties are necessary for the education This article will highlight some of had “associated themselves … for and culture of the people and that the milestones that define the type the purpose of promoting library libraries are as important as any of organization VLA is today. interests [of the country] by ex- branch in the great system of pub- VLA must first pay homage to changing views, reaching conclu- lic education; do hereby organize a library stalwart, Melvil Dewey, sions, and inducing cooperation ourselves for the promotion of a who along with two other col- in all departments of bibliothecal closer intercourse among librarians leagues, Justin Winsor and Wil- science and economy; by dispos- and all interested in library work in liam Frederick Poole, founded the ing the public mind to the found- American Library Association at ing and improving of libraries; and the first organized conference for by cultivating good will among its Alyssa Altshuler is Law Library Man- librarians in Philadelphia in 1876, own members.”2 A decade later, the ager at Wahab Public Law Library, Vir- thus setting the precedent of unity first library school was founded by ginia Beach Public Library. She can be and strength through numbers Dewey in New York City in 1887, reached at [email protected]. PAGE VIRGINIA LIBRARIES JULY–SEPTEMBER, 2005

VLA events are often opportunities for librarians to connect with authors such as David Baldacci.

Virginia and to further library in- One such notable figure was Dr. ered holding a conference, but Dal- terests in general.”4 Earl Gregg Swem, who served as ton decided that “with gasoline, Though VLA was founded with president of VLA in 1927–1928; he tires, and transportation facilities good intentions and its members was the first to request state aid for at a premium, such a conference had set high goals for the orga- public libraries from the Virginia would be ill-advised and unpatri- nization, the first two decades of General Assembly. In an apprecia- otic.” 9 Dalton also guided postwar its existence were affected both tion of Swem’s fifty years of library planning for libraries throughout by economic and transportation service, it was noted that “[d]uring Virginia when demobilization problems in Virginia and by World his twelve years in the Virginia began. As a testament to his dis- War I and its aftermath, which State Library … [he] wrote, com- tinguished career, the Lippincott kept membership low and prevent- piled, and edited close to forty Award, one of the highest hon- ed meetings from taking place on publications … many of them have ors in librarianship, was awarded a regular basis.5 Fortunately, the become standard fare for any li- to him at the 1954 ALA annual foundation set by Kennedy and the brarian, historian, or student of conference. He was described as a work of his fellow VLA officers and Virginia history.”7 He transformed “firm exponent of the liberal tradi- members were strong enough to the library at the College of Wil- tion in librarianship, including the endure the cataclysmic world war liam & Mary by expanding its col- essentiality of books and the right and ultimately survive through lection tremendously from 1920 to read them.”10 a combined organizational effort until 1944, and remained active Since 1906, when the Virginia with the Virginia Educational As- in VLA throughout his career and General Assembly first appropriat- sociation in 1922. After reestab- during his retirement.8 ed money for traveling libraries to lishing firm footing, VLA broke Just as Swem helped to keep serve rural areas and schools, fund- from VEA in 1925 and became a the momentum moving forward ing for public libraries has been a separate organization again.6 for VLA before and after the Great priority for VLA, with the goal that The service of VLA members Depression era, Jack Dalton, who everyone in the state should have and their dedication to the mis- served as president of VLA from equal access to library service. A sion of the organization have been 1942–1945, was instrumental in commission was established by critical elements in VLA’s long- keeping the group cohesive dur- the General Assembly to survey standing success. During various ing World War II, when much of the educational system in Virginia, stages of development, a few indi- VLA’s membership was serving in and a task force formed to research viduals carried the organization the armed forces overseas. It was library needs in 1927. It was during forward during turbulent times. during this time that VLA consid- this year that VLA President Earl JULY–SEPTEMBER, 2005 VIRGINIA LIBRARIES PAGE

Gregg Swem requested $25,000 project has this year been giving li- 1954, noted the following truism for rural libraries in the first bill brary services to many parts of Vir- about lobbying efforts regarding for state aid that was proffered to ginia where libraries have too long funding, which is equally appli- the state legislature. The bill was been inaccessible. … Book Wagons cable today: defeated, and only $3,500 was pro- … are now being operated in the vided to operate traveling libraries Tidewater area, the five-county cen- Seventy-six percent of our in 1928.11 tral Virginia area and in Charlotte more than a million and In 1929, the stock market crashed and Carroll counties.”14 a half country people still and the Great Depression era began. In 1942, at the advent of World have no ready access to read- However, based in part upon an War II, VLA and the State Library ing material. Why? Blissful endorsement by State Librarian Dr. ignorance and complacence H. R. McIlwaine, VLA was still able on the part of the majority to advocate and successfully push of taxpayers, who, aware of through an aid request to the Vir- “In 1939, this state only the worth of libraries, might ginia General Assembly for $15,000 spent thirteen cents bring pressure to bear upon to implement a county library sys- their local purse holders. In tem in Virginia. One year after VLA per capita for library 1939, this state only spent voted to apply for chapter member- thirteen cents per capita for ship in the American Library Asso- service against an ALA library service against an ALA ciation in 1930, ALA advocated for standard of $1.00.” standard of $1.00. What can federal aid for rural library service be done? Publicity, good [and] in 1931. In 1935, President Franklin steady … from each library D. Roosevelt established the Works and from everyone enjoying Progress Administration (WPA), of Virginia were successful in per- the privileges of libraries.15 which helped to fund library servic- suading the Virginia General As- es throughout Virginia and the na- sembly to appropriate $50,000 Throughout the next sixty years, tion.12 Randolph W. Church, who for public libraries in the first law and in varying fiscal climates, the would later become the state librar- establishing state aid. Mary M. heroic legislative advocacy efforts ian, published a “Regional Library Barksdale, a VLA member who of VLA have been crucial in ensur- Plan for Virginia” in which he asked would later serve as president in ing that the Virginia General As- for a state grant-in-aid program in sembly provided adequate state aid 1936.13 VLA noted in its publica- for public libraries, which has been tion News Letter J.M.R.T. in 1939 that “[t]he WPA State-wide Library

VLA has not wavered from its core mission to “develop, promote, and improve library and information services” for the Commonwealth. PAGE VIRGINIA LIBRARIES JULY–SEPTEMBER, 2005

augmented by federal aid since Carrying the tradition of com- and focused over time, as the is- the passage of the Library Services bating censorship into the follow- sues it supports and defends have Act in 1956.16 The latest legislative ing decades, VLA assisted various become more complex. As early as package for public libraries in Vir- localities to fight book and peri- 1972, VLA planned an organized ginia, which was passed in 2005, odical challenges in the 1980s, effort by its members to promote appropriated over sixteen million garnering national press coverage its message to legislators through dollars for state aid.17 for being “in the forefront in their a letter-writing campaign: “1972 is While VLA has worked tirelessly defense of First Amendment rights the year that Virginia librarians are since its inception to ensure that of the reading public.”20 VLA planning to let their Governor and there was adequate funding for li- joined with the American Library State legislators know their com- braries, it has also concentrated its Association and other library orga- munity library needs and what efforts in addressing a wide range nizations in a lawsuit against the they think the State of Virginia of fundamental library issues. One National Security Agency, which can do to help.”23 On the national issue that stands out is the need to directed the removal of unclassi- level, VLA has participated in the combat censorship and support in- fied documents from public access annual Library Legislative Day, tellectual freedom in all forms. Dur- at the George C. Marshall Library where its members travel to Wash- ing the Cold War era of the 1950s, at the Virginia Military Institute in ington, D.C., to advocate concerns the prevalent fear of communism 1986.21 to Virginia congressmen and sena- in the United States was exploited tors since 1973.24 In 1995, VLA by Senator Joseph R. McCarthy in hired the firm of Hazel & Thomas, his modern-day witch-hunt for whose attorney Philip F. Abraham communist sympathizers. It was Traditional censorship has very ably performed legislative against this backdrop that VLA must now try to catch up liaison activities in conjunction first began to explore the issue of with the work of the VLA Legisla- censorship and to advocate against with technology. tive Committee for the past ten it. As early as 1962, VLA published years.25 Carolyn Caywood, a librar- ALA’s statement, “How Libraries ian from the Virginia Beach Public and Schools Can Resist Censor- Both the Intellectual Freedom Library and recent recipient of the ship,” which used as its foundation Committee and the Legislative New York Times Librarian Award, tes- ALA’s Library Bill of Rights.18 In a Committee for VLA are working tified before a United States Con- 1969 article in Virginia Librarian, diligently today to prevent leg- gressional Subcommittee regarding Assistant Librarian Helen Vogel of islation that would mandate the the Children’s Internet Protection Falls Church Public Library asked, implementation of Internet filters Act (CIPA) in 2001.26 “Where Do We Go from Here?” in public libraries, with funding VLA publications, aimed pri- consequences for those who do marily at the membership, have Historically, it has been point- not comply. As former VLA Presi- evolved over the years from five- ed out that there are three dent Edwin “Sam” Clay noted in page issues, such as the News Letter areas which receive the great- his article “Censoring the New and the Virginia Library Bulletin, to est scrutiny in the area of in- Millennium,” “[a]s long as there the more substantive and scholarly tellectual freedom: sex and ob- are human beings, there will be Virginia Libraries. The editors of the scenity, religion and politics. a perceived need for censorship. I Virginia Librarian shared the ratio- Politics came in for its greatest contend that it is a part of human nale for a VLA publication with share of attention during the nature to want to present only ac- the readership in 1954: “Veteran McCarthy era of the ’50’s, and cess to thoughts that are consid- members agreed that the Com- religion has enjoyed the “God ered ‘right’ or ‘correct.’ What has monwealth was a large state and is dead” controversy. The dis- happened, however, is the advent that it might be helpful if librarians turbing thing about politics of the information age. Traditional of the various sections and types (read “ideologies”) is that the censorship must now try to catch of libraries were better acquainted so-called defenders of democ- up with technology. As there are with each other. To put it another racy who detect enemies of the now new types of non-print com- way, the Virginia Librarian exists republic lurking behind every munication mediums, there are to let the left hand of the Virginia bush tend to be like the many- also now available new types of library world know what the right headed hydra. When one is forms of censorship.”22 hand is doing.”27 Currently aug- stamped out, another takes its Legislative advocacy by VLA menting the quarterly publication place. Such has been the expe- has become more sophisticated of Virginia Libraries is the monthly rience of many librarians.19 JULY–SEPTEMBER, 2005 VIRGINIA LIBRARIES PAGE

Legislative liaison Phil Abraham helps VLA connect with state lawmakers and arranges events such as this meeting at the annual conference.

VLA Newsletter, which debuted in member, paraprofessional, public fessional Forum, regional offerings, 1987. The VLA website went online services, technical services and and specialized classes. In keeping in 1996 under Steve Helm’s direc- technology, trustees and friends, with its commitment to recruit tion; it has been a dynamic source volunteer management, and youth people to the profession, VLA offers of information about the organiza- management. The fact that all of three competitive annual scholar- tion.28 The Jobline moved to the these disparate sections and fo- ships of $2,000 each to individuals VLA website shortly thereafter in rums of VLA exist today is due to a who are pursuing master’s degrees 1997.29 The VLA-L listserv30 began recognition that different types of in library science. the next year in 1998, and Virginia library staff can better voice their The role of VLA President, who Libraries went online in 1999.31 The issues and concerns to both VLA sets the tone and shapes the agenda VLA Shipping List, an official publi- and the public from smaller, more for the year, has been very ably cation of VLA since 1981, reports specialized subgroups. filled by individuals from a vari- on issues regarding national docu- Service on VLA’s standing com- ety of libraries. Those officers who ments, Virginia documents, and mittees as an officer or as a mem- have served as VLA Vice President, legislative activities affecting librar- ber has expanded over the years to 2nd Vice President, Treasurer, and ies and government agencies.32 include a wide variety of interests, Secretary have also been critical for The breadth of membership in as expressed by the following com- the efficient and effective running VLA includes paraprofessionals, mittee titles: Administrative Servic- of the organization. The role of ALA students, friends-of-the-library es, Awards and Recognition, Con- Councilor has been very important groups, trustees, and institutions. ference, Continuing Education, to VLA, keeping the membership One’s membership today includes Finance, Intellectual Freedom, Leg- informed about the national orga- a choice of four sections: aca- islative, Membership, Nominating, nization and its agenda. demic, public, school, or special. Publications, and Scholarship. In 2005, VLA remains strong One can also join multiple forums, Continuing education oppor- because of the commitment of including administration and tunities are offered by VLA year- over 1,100 members to continually management, collection manage- round, including the sessions at strengthen and enhance the orga- ment, local history, genealogy and the annual conference, opportuni- nization. Whether one joins as a oral history, multicultural, new ties sponsored by the VLA Parapro- member, works on a committee, or PAGE 10 VIRGINIA LIBRARIES JULY–SEPTEMBER, 2005 fills the role of an officer, it is the the library experience for each cus- Around,” News Letter J.M.R.T., October active participation of everyone tomer coming through the door of 1939, 4. that is the key ingredient for con- a library in Virginia.” 35 15 Mary M. Barksdale, “WPA, a tinued success. I want to close this Tonic to Libraries,” News Letter, Octo- retrospective with a few thoughts ber 1941, 25. 16 Library Services Act, Public Law regarding the importance of VLA Notes Number 597, 84th Congress (1956). from three past presidents. 1 “About the ALA,” in The Ameri- 17 Virginia General Assembly, Acts Frank Shirk, VLA President in can Library Association Student Chapter of Assembly, “Chapter 951, Appropria- 1965, said forty years ago that at the University of Michigan’s School of tion of Funds for the 2004–06 Bien- “VLA has grown to consider- Information [website] 12 September nium” and “Item 259, Financial As- able size — we now have over 800 2004 [cited 8 June 2005]; available sistance to Public Libraries — Formula members — and should inject its from http://www.si.umich.edu/ALA/ Aid” (2005): 244. influence throughout the state in history.shtml. 18 Joseph B. Runey, ed., Virginia Li- 2 matters that affect us as librarians. “Charter of 1879 (Revised 1942), brarian 9.1 (1962): 1. 19 We should educate the public on Commonwealth of Massachusetts,” in Helen Vogel, “Where Do We Go American Library Association: Our As- from Here? A Question on Intellec- library matters. We should speak sociation, Governing and Strategic Docu- tual Freedom,” Virginia Librarian 16.3 up for extension of library service, ments [website] 2005 [cited 30 May (1969): 13. improvement of libraries and for 2005]; available from http://www.ala. 20 “Virginia Gains National Atten- the upgrading of librarianship as a org/ala/ourassociation/governingdocs/ tion for Strong Censorship Stands,” Vir- profession.” 33 charterof1879/charter1879.htm. ginia Librarian Newsletter 27.3 (1981): 1. Morel Fry, VLA President in 3 “University at Albany School 21 American Library Association v. 2003, pointed out to the member- of Information Science and Policy Faurer, 631 Federal Supplement 416, ship that VLA “offers you a voice History,” in School of Information Sci- 419 (1986). in your professional communi- ence and Policy, University at Albany, 22 Edwin S. Clay, “Censoring the ty — and in your service commu- State University of New York [website] New Millennium,” Virginia Libraries nity. When you need to speak as 4 April 2005 [cited 2 June 2005]; 46.1 (2000): 6. available from http://www.albany. 23 Carl Cannon, “Librarians Write an advocate for your library, you edu/sisp/level3/SISPHistory.html. Their Legislators, Federal or State,” Vir- are not alone in your city, facing 4 Henry James Jr., “Milestones in ginia Librarian 18.1 (1971): 23. its citizens. You are backed by VLA the Evolution of VLA,” Virginia Library 24 Sue Trask, ed., “Library Legisla- and the information it can provide Association LXXV Anniversary Program tive Day,” VLA Newsletter 9.9 (1995): 1. you through its surveys on salaries, (1980): 29. 25 Sue Trask, ed., “Legislative Com- cooperative studies, and member 5 Ibid. mittee Activities,” VLA Newsletter 9.10 research … your fellow members 6 Andrea Kross, “A Toast to the (1995): 3. can give advice on programs and Past Century,” Virginia Libraries 46.2 26 Helen Q. Sherman, ed., “People services … your best ideas can (2000): 2. and Happenings,” VLA Newsletter 15.4 7 come from another librarian who “Earl Gregg Swem,” Virginia Li- (2001): 5. 27 faced a similar situation.” 34 brarian 4.4 (1958): 30. Carrol H. Quenzel, ed., Virginia 8 “Who Was Dr. Swem?,” in The Librarian 1.1 (1954): 2. Carolyn Barkley, VLA President College of William & Mary, Earl Gregg 28 Sue Trask, ed., “VLA Introduces in 2000, emphasized the two-way Swem Library [website] 2000 [cited 21 Web Site,” VLA Newsletter 10.8 (1996): 1. commitment that is necessary May 2005]; available from http://www. 29 Sue Trask, ed., “VLA Jobline when joining VLA: “We individu- swem.wm.edu/Guide/drswem.htm. Moves to the Web,” VLA Newsletter ally take away from VLA partici- 9 “Do We Need a Conference?,” Vir- 11.1 (1997): 1. pation a renewed sense of energy, ginia Library Bulletin, July 1943, 1. 30 Mary Hansbrough, ed., “VLA List- an enlarged support group of indi- 10 Carrol H. Quenzel, ed., Virginia serv,” VLA Newsletter 12.2 (1998): 2. viduals, and a memory of shared Librarian 1.3 (1954): 1. 31 Mary Hansbrough, ed., “Virginia experience and new knowledge. I 11 Kross. Libraries On Line,” VLA Newsletter 13.8 12 strongly believe that the wealth of “Significant Dates in Georgia Li- (1999): 1. 32 Barbie Selby, “VLA Shipping List our gain is paralleled by an obliga- brary History,” in The Georgia Library History Project [website] 1 September Is Back!,” VLA Newsletter 13.6 (1999): 1. tion to return to the organization 2002 [cited 10 May 2005]; available 33 Frank Shirk, “VLA,” Virginia Li- our energies, support, experience from http://www.georgialibraryhistory brarian 11.4 (1965): 59. and knowledge. … [O]ffering back project.org/timeline.htm. 34 Morel Fry, “Why VLA?,” Virginia to VLA enhances us as individu- 13 Florence Yoder, “State Aid for Libraries 48.4 (2002): 3. als, enriches the overall quality Public Libraries in Virginia,” Virginia 35 Carolyn Barkley, “Give and Take of librarianship in Virginia, and Librarian 17.2 (1970): 26-27. in VLA,” Virginia Libraries 46.1 (2000): ultimately increases the quality of 14 “Book Wagons Propelled 4. VL JULY–SEPTEMBER, 2005 VIRGINIA LIBRARIES PAGE 11

Officers of the Virginia Library Association

by Alyssa Altshuler

1905 1912 1925 President...... John P. Kennedy In 1912, there was a handwritten President...... J. Maud Campbell 1st Vice President...... William Henry note referring to the “Virginia Library 1st Vice President...... Dr. J. C. Metcalf Sargeant Association,” indicating that the original 2nd Vice President.... Mrs. R. A. McGuire 2nd Vice President.... John S. Patton name was being used again. Secretary...... Margaret Virginia Secretary...... Edward L. Evans President...... Dr. J. C. Metcalf Jones Treasurer...... Mary G. Lacy 1st Vice President...... Dr. J. S. Patton Treasurer...... Margaret Virginia 2nd Vice President.... none listed Jones 1906 Secretary...... George Carrington President...... John P. Kennedy Moseley 1926 1st Vice President...... William Henry Treasurer...... Henry G. Ellis President...... Mary Louise Sargeant Dinwiddie 2nd Vice President.... John S. Patton 1913 1st Vice President...... Theresa D. Hodges Secretary...... Edward L. Evans President...... Dr. J. C. Metcalf 2nd Vice President.... Mrs. R. A. McGuire Treasurer...... Mary G. Lacy 1st Vice President...... Mrs. M. W. King Secretary...... Margaret Virginia 2nd Vice President.... none listed Jones 1907 Secretary...... George Carrington Treasurer...... Margaret Virginia No officers listed. Moseley Jones Treasurer...... George Carrington 1908 Moseley 1927 November 26, 1908: Organizational President...... Mary Louise meeting called for “new” association called 1914-1922 Dinwiddie “Library Association of Virginia” and According to the article “A Toast to the Past 1st Vice President...... Theresa D. Hodges incorporated remaining treasury of VLA Century” by Andrea Kross, after “… one 2nd Vice President.... Mrs. R. A. McGuire without dispute (no officers listed). meeting in 1912, the association almost Secretary...... Margaret Virginia disappeared, but it was reorganized and Jones 1909 conjoined with the Virginia Educational Treasurer...... Margaret Virginia President...... William Henry Association in 1922. In 1925, VLA regained Jones Sargeant its independence.” A search of the archives 1st Vice President...... none listed bears this statement out, as there were no 1928 2nd Vice President.... none listed documents noting election of new officers President...... Earl Gregg Swem Secretary...... W. M. Black or any type of official meetings being held. 1st Vice President...... Pearl Hinesly Treasurer...... Earl Gregg Swem 2nd Vice President.... Virginia Harnsberger 1923 Secretary...... Leslie Stevens 1910 President...... Mary D. Pretlow Treasurer...... Leslie Stevens President...... W. M. Black 1st Vice President...... Mrs. J. L. Hagen 1st Vice President...... Dr. J. C. Metcalf 2nd Vice President.... Dr. J. C. Metcalf 1929 2nd Vice President.... none listed Secretary...... Margaret Virginia President...... Virginia Harnsberger Secretary...... George Carrington Jones 1st Vice President...... Thomas P. Ayer Moseley Treasurer...... Margaret Virginia 2nd Vice President.... Esther Wilson Treasurer...... Brownley Bowen Jones Secretary...... Mary Louise Dinwiddie 1911 1924 Treasurer...... Mary Louise President...... W. M. Black President...... C. Vernon Eddy Dinwiddie 1st Vice President...... Dr. J. C. Metcalf 1st Vice President...... J. Maud Campbell 2nd Vice President.... none listed 2nd Vice President.... C. O. Van Devanter Secretary...... George Carrington Secretary...... Margaret Virginia Moseley Jones Treasurer...... W. F. Lewis Treasurer...... Margaret Virginia Jones PAGE 12 VIRGINIA LIBRARIES JULY–SEPTEMBER, 2005

1930 1937 1947 President...... Thomas P. Ayer President...... Wilmer L. Hall President...... Foster Morhardt 1st Vice President...... Theresa D. Hodges 1st Vice President...... Mary V. Gaver (resigned 07/16/47) 2nd Vice President.... Blanche P. McCrum 2nd Vice President.... Charles H. Stone 1st Vice President...... Bessie W. Scott Secretary...... Mary Louise Secretary...... Mary Louise (president from Dinwiddie Dinwiddie 07/16/47) Treasurer...... Mary Louise Treasurer...... Mary Louise 2nd Vice President.... Helen Keeble Dinwiddie Dinwiddie Secretary...... Ellinor G. Preston Treasurer...... Ellinor G. Preston 1931 1938 President...... Theresa D. Hodges President...... Elizabeth A. 1948 1st Vice President...... Harry Clemons Saunders President...... Ernestine Grafton 2nd Vice President.... none listed 1st Vice President...... Charles H. Stone 1st Vice President...... Louise Savage Secretary...... Mary Louise 2nd Vice President.... Mr. J. L. Hagen 2nd Vice President.... Paul L. Grier Dinwiddie Secretary...... Dorothy L. Wood Secretary...... Ellinor G. Preston Treasurer...... Mary Louise Treasurer...... Dorothy L. Wood Treasurer...... Ellinor G. Preston Dinwiddie 1939 1949 1932 President...... C. Vernon Eddy President...... Ellinor G. Preston President...... Harry Clemons 1st Vice President...... Randolph W. Church 1st Vice President...... Grace M. Carnahan 1st Vice President...... Florence R. Curtis 2nd Vice President.... Mildred Johnson 2nd Vice President.... Milton Russell 2nd Vice President.... C. W. Dickinson Jr. Secretary...... Dorothy L. Wood Secretary...... Ferne R. Hoover Secretary...... Mary Louise Treasurer...... Dorothy L. Wood Treasurer...... Ferne R. Hoover Dinwiddie Treasurer...... Mary Louise 1940 1950 Dinwiddie President...... Randolph W. Church President...... Carrol H. Quenzel 1st Vice President...... Mae Graham 1st Vice President...... Evelyn Day Mullen 1933 2nd Vice President.... Nancy Hoyle 2nd Vice President.... Julia Frances President...... Florence R. Curtis Secretary...... Dorothy L. Wood Robinson 1st Vice President...... C. W. Dickinson Jr. Treasurer...... Dorothy L. Wood Secretary...... Ferne R. Hoover 2nd Vice President.... Wilmer L. Hall Treasurer...... Ferne R. Hoover Secretary...... Mary Louise 1941 Dinwiddie President...... Thomas P. Ayer 1951 Treasurer...... Mary Louise 1st Vice President...... Jack Dalton President...... Mildred G. Blattner Dinwiddie 2nd Vice President.... Dorothy S. Watson 1st Vice President...... Carolyn McKee Secretary...... Helen Keeble 2nd Vice President.... Margaret Edwards 1934 Treasurer...... Helen Keeble Secretary...... Ferne R. Hoover President...... C. W. Dickinson Jr. Treasurer...... Ferne R. Hoover 1st Vice President...... J. Maud Campbell 1942 2nd Vice President.... Ralph M. Brown President...... Jack Dalton 1952 Secretary...... Mary Louise 1st Vice President...... Foster Morhardt President...... Helen Keeble Dinwiddie 2nd Vice President.... Margaret Yeakley 1st Vice President...... Beverley Ruffin Treasurer...... Mary Louise Secretary...... Helen Keeble 2nd Vice President.... Lucy Lee Lancaster Dinwiddie Treasurer...... Helen Keeble Secretary...... Marjorie Dearhart Treasurer...... Marjorie Dearhart 1935 1943 President...... Blanche P. McCrum President...... Jack Dalton 1953 1st Vice President...... Martha S. Bell No elections because of WWII. President...... Seymour Robb 2nd Vice President.... Mary L. Gaver 1st Vice President...... Mary Barksdale Secretary...... Mary Louise 1944 2nd Vice President.... Florence Yoder Dinwiddie President...... Jack Dalton Secretary...... Marjorie Dearhart Treasurer...... Mary Louise No elections because of WWII. Treasurer...... Catherine Slaughter Dinwiddie 1945 1954 1936 President...... Jack Dalton President...... Mary M. Barksdale President...... Blanche P. McCrum No elections because of WWII. 1st Vice President...... Florence Yoder 1st Vice President...... Martha S. Bell 2nd Vice President.... Roy Land 2nd Vice President.... Mary V. Gaver 1946 Secretary...... Sterling Bagby Secretary...... Mary Louise President...... Bessie Watson Scott Treasurer...... Catherine Slaughter Dinwiddie 1st Vice President...... Foster Morhardt Treasurer...... Mary Louise 2nd Vice President.... Margaret Yeakley Dinwiddie Secretary...... Helen Keeble Treasurer...... Helen Keeble JULY–SEPTEMBER, 2005 VIRGINIA LIBRARIES PAGE 13

1955 1963 1971 President...... Florence B. Yoder President...... Mary Katherine President...... Cathryn C. Lyon 1st Vice President...... Roy Land McCulloch 1st Vice President...... Ray W. Frantz Jr. 2nd Vice President.... Lake L. Newton 1st Vice President...... N. Harvey Deal 2nd Vice President.... Lelia B. Saunders Secretary...... Sterling Bagby 2nd Vice President.... Lady B. Walton Secretary...... Jane L. Black Treasurer...... Catherine Slaughter Secretary...... Jane Moss Treasurer...... Arnette S. King Treasurer...... William C. Pollard 1956 1972 President...... Roy Land 1964 President...... Ray W. Frantz Jr. 1st Vice President...... Ada V. Whyte President...... N. Harvey Deal 1st Vice President...... Mary Stuart Mason 2nd Vice President.... Arthur Kirby 1st Vice President...... Frank C. Shirk 2nd Vice President.... Verdelle V. Bradley Secretary...... Sterling Bagby 2nd Vice President.... Jane B. Nida Secretary...... Jane L. Black Treasurer...... Felsie Riddle Secretary...... Alice Morris Treasurer...... Antje L. Smith Treasurer...... H. David Turner 1957 1973 President...... Ida V. Whyte 1965 President...... Mary Stuart Mason 1st Vice President...... Ray O. Hummel Jr. President...... Frank C. Shirk 1st Vice President...... Howard M. Smith 2nd Vice President.... Frank C. Shirk 1st Vice President...... Lady B. Walton 2nd Vice President.... Gertrude C. Davis Secretary...... Mary Katherine 2nd Vice President.... Elizabeth Jesse Secretary...... Mary Louise Cobb McCulloch Secretary...... Helen E. Walker Treasurer...... Antje L. Smith Treasurer...... Felsie Riddle Treasurer...... William L. Whitesides 1974 1958 President...... Howard M. Smith President...... Ray O. Hummel Jr. 1966 1st Vice President...... M. Patricia Carey 1st Vice President...... Catherine Slaughter President...... Lady B. Walton 2nd Vice President.... Carol C. Henderson 2nd Vice President.... Hathaway Pollard 1st Vice President...... Arthur M. Kirby Secretary...... Mary Louise Cobb Secretary...... Mary Katherine 2nd Vice President.... Forrest C. Palmer Treasurer...... Suzanne W. Shook McCulloch Secretary...... Helen E. Walker Treasurer...... Virginia F. Ruff Treasurer...... William L. 1975 Whitesides President...... M. Patricia Carey 1959 1st Vice President...... Maurice M. Leach Jr. President...... Catherine Slaughter 1967 2nd Vice President.... Roberta Miller 1st Vice President...... Sterling Bagby President...... Arthur M. Kirby Secretary...... Gladys R. Caywood 2nd Vice President.... Ethel Leigh Joyner 1st Vice President...... William Pollard Treasurer...... Suzanne W. Shook Secretary...... Mary K. McCulloch 2nd Vice President.... Robert Stephenson Treasurer...... Virginia F. Ruff Secretary...... Helen E. Walker 1976 Treasurer...... Dorothy Fuller President...... Maurice M. Leach Jr. 1960 1st Vice President...... Janet Minnerath President...... Sterling Bagby 1968 2nd Vice President.... John B. St. Leger 1st Vice President...... Ethel Leigh Joyner President...... William C. Pollard Secretary...... Gladys R. Caywood 2nd Vice President.... Ray W. Frantz 1st Vice President...... Forrest C. Palmer Treasurer...... Theda F. Gibson Secretary...... Elizabeth Jesse 2nd Vice President.... John K. Gott Treasurer...... Virginia F. Ruff Secretary...... Ruth Eggleston 1977 Treasurer...... Dorothy Fuller President...... Janet Minnerath 1961 1st Vice President...... Nolan T. Yelich President...... Ethel Leigh Joyner 1969 2nd Vice President.... Betty M. Ragsdale 1st Vice President...... Joe W. Kraus President...... Forrest C. Palmer Secretary...... Marcy Sims 2nd Vice President.... Bess Patterson 1st Vice President...... Jane B. Nida Treasurer...... Theda F. Gibson Secretary...... Elizabeth Jesse 2nd Vice President.... Anne K. Watkins Treasurer...... William Pollard Secretary...... Ruth Eggleston 1978 Treasurer...... Dorothy Fuller President...... Nolan T. Yelich 1962 1st Vice President...... Fred Heath President...... Bess P. Walford 1970 2nd Vice President.... Blanche Wysor 1st Vice President...... Mary Katherine President...... Jane B. Nida Secretary...... Marcy Sims McCulloch 1st Vice President...... Cathryn C. Lyon Treasurer...... Ken Jensen 2nd Vice President.... Vivian DeFord 2nd Vice President.... David Rowland Secretary...... Jane Moss Secretary...... Ruth Eggleston 1979 Treasurer...... William C. Pollard Treasurer...... Arnette S. King President...... Fred Heath 1st Vice President...... Lelia Saunders 2nd Vice President.... none listed Secretary...... Mary Haban Treasurer...... Ken Jensen PAGE 14 VIRGINIA LIBRARIES JULY–SEPTEMBER, 2005

1980 1989 1998 President...... Lelia Saunders President...... Wendell Barbour President...... Tom Hehman 1st Vice President...... Betty M. Ragsdale 1st Vice President...... Fran Freimarck 1st Vice President...... Sandra Heinemann 2nd Vice President.... none listed 2nd Vice President.... none listed 2nd Vice President.... Stella Pool Secretary...... Mary Haban Secretary...... Elizabeth Hamilton Secretary...... Patricia Howe Treasurer...... Donald Kenney Treasurer...... Gladys R. Caywood Treasurer...... Terry Sumey

1981 1990 1999 President...... Betty M. Ragsdale President...... Fran Freimarck President...... Sandra Heinemann 1st Vice President...... H. Gordon Bechanan 1st Vice President...... Deborah Leather 1st Vice President...... Carolyn Barkley 2nd Vice President.... none listed 2nd Vice President.... Alan Zoellner 2nd Vice President.... Stella Pool Secretary...... Fran Freimarck Secretary...... Linda Farynk Secretary...... Patricia Howe Treasurer...... Donald J. Kenney Treasurer...... Sandy Heinemann Treasurer...... Terry Sumey

1982 1991 2000 President...... H. Gordon Bechanan President...... Deborah Leather President...... Carolyn Barkley 1st Vice President...... Dean Burgess 1st Vice President...... Steve Matthews 1st Vice President...... Cy Dillon 2nd Vice President.... none listed 2nd Vice President.... Alan Zoellner 2nd Vice President.... Ruth Arnold Secretary...... Fran Freimarck Secretary...... Linda Farynk Secretary...... Nancy Newins Treasurer...... Rene Perez-Lopez Treasurer...... Sandy Heinemann Treasurer...... Jeanette Friedman

1983 1992 2001 President...... Dean Burgess President...... Steve Matthews President...... Cy Dillon 1st Vice President...... Tim Byrne 1st Vice President...... Elizabeth Hamilton 1st Vice President...... Iza Cieszynski 2nd Vice President.... none listed 2nd Vice President.... Jim Gwin 2nd Vice President.... Ruth Arnold Secretary...... John D. Stewart Secretary...... Linda Farynk Secretary...... Janis Augustine Treasurer...... Rene Perez-Lopez Treasurer...... Caroline Parr Treasurer...... Jeanette Friedman

1984 1993 2002 President...... Tim Byrne President...... Elizabeth Hamilton President...... Iza Cieszynski 1st Vice President...... Christie Vernon 1st Vice President...... John D. Stewart 1st Vice President...... Morel Fry 2nd Vice President.... none listed 2nd Vice President.... Jim Gwin 2nd Vice President.... Harriet Edmunds Secretary...... John D. Stewart Secretary...... Paulette Thomas Secretary...... Janis Augustine Treasurer...... Lynne Dodge Treasurer...... Caroline Parr Treasurer...... Andrew Morton

1985 1994 2003 President...... Christie Vernon President...... John D. Stewart President...... Morel Fry 1st Vice President...... Harriet Henderson 1st Vice President...... Linda Farynk 1st Vice President...... Edwin Sam Clay 2nd Vice President.... none listed 2nd Vice President.... Suzanne Freeman 2nd Vice President.... Harriet Edmunds Secretary...... Deborah Leather Secretary...... Paulette Thomas Secretary...... Susan Paddock Treasurer...... Lynn Dodge Ubben Treasurer...... Andrew Morton Treasurer...... Diana Granger 1986 2004 President...... Harriet Henderson 1995 President...... Edwin Sam Clay 1st Vice President...... Lynn Scott McAuley President...... Linda Farynk 1st Vice President...... Ruth E. Kifer 2nd Vice President.... none listed 1st Vice President...... Caroline Parr 2nd Vice President.... Donna Cote Secretary...... Deborah Leather 2nd Vice President.... Suzette Freeman Secretary...... Susan Paddock Treasurer...... Judith Segal Secretary...... Patsy Hansel Treasurer...... Steve Preston Treasurer...... Diana Granger 1987 2005 President...... Lynn Scott McAuley 1996 President...... Ruth E. Kifer 1st Vice President...... Patricia Paine President...... Caroline Parr 1st Vice President...... Ruth Arnold 2nd Vice President.... none listed 1st Vice President...... Lis Chabot 2nd Vice President.... Donna Cote Secretary...... Steve Matthews 2nd Vice President.... Carolyn Barkley Secretary...... Lydia Williams Treasurer...... Judith Segal Secretary...... Steve Murden Treasurer...... Steve Preston VL Treasurer...... Linda Hahne 1988 President...... Patricia Paine 1997 1st Vice President...... Wendell Barbour President...... Lis Chabot 2nd Vice President.... none listed 1st Vice President...... Tom Hehman Secretary...... Steve Matthews 2nd Vice President.... Carolyn Barkley Treasurer...... Gladys R. Caywood Secretary...... Patricia Howe Treasurer...... Caroline Parr JULY–SEPTEMBER, 2005 VIRGINIA LIBRARIES PAGE 15

A VLA Conference Retrospective

by Gregg S. Grunow

he programs of the VLA nization meeting of 1922. Whether The surviving programs from Conference from years any formal meeting or conference the 1920s are very sparse. The past provide an interest- agendas or programs were written meetings sound businesslike, with Ting perspective on the history of for these early years is unknown. separate sessions for each type of the association. While not every librarianship — college, public, cat- year is covered, due to gaps in the aloging, and school, among others. collection of program booklets The booklets from the 1920s show in the Archives and Manuscripts Our libraries have a strong tie to the American Library Department of the Library of Vir- adapted to each decade’s Association (ALA), with a keynote ginia, those that are represented address by Dr. H. H. Meyer, Presi- show strong ties to the national changes and challenges. dent of ALA, at the 1924 confer- organization, an eye to improving ence. The 1930s programs demon- the profession, and a finger on the strate a continuing tie to ALA. Tom- pulse of library issues of the times. Although the first conference with a mie Dora Barker, the ALA Regional The first conference program specified theme did not occur until Field Agent for the South, spoke at held at LVA dates back to 1923. We 1955, and themes were included the 1931 and 1935 conferences. Dr. know from Henry James Jr.’s VLA very sporadically until becoming a Carl H. Milam, Secretary of ALA, seventy-fifth anniversary article, regular part of the conferences in addressed the 1934 conference. “Milestones in the Evolution of the early 1960s, many conference VLA,” that general meetings were session titles reflected the concerns held from 1905 to 1910. The next of each decade along with library Gregg S. Grunow is Virginiana Room meeting occurred in 1912. Then issues that will sound very familiar Librarian for the Newport News Public follows a gap until the VLA reorga- to those in the field today. Library System. PAGE 16 VIRGINIA LIBRARIES JULY–SEPTEMBER, 2005

gave an address that focused on “Books as Implements of War.” In 1946, the first conference after WWII seemed to satisfy the need to regroup after the hiatus, with individual library specialty sections and business meetings. 1947 saw a return to VLA’s ties with ALA, as Mary V. Rothrock, Past President of ALA, addressed the conference. Many conference firsts occurred in the 1950s. In 1953, the conference exhibitors were first listed by name in the program. The first book and author dinner occurred in 1954. The 1955 conference had the first stated overall theme, “Virginia Librarians Look Ahead.” The speakers in the 1950s were respected representatives of the library world — most notably, David C. Mearns, Assistant Librarian of Congress, in 1950; Jack Dalton, Director of the International Rela- tions Office of ALA, in 1958; and Dr. Benjamin Powell, President of ALA, in 1959. The stated conference themes of the 1960s are still of interest to librarians today. 1962 looked “To- ward Better Service in Virginia,” 1963 promoted “Cooperation for Service,” 1965 focused on “Shar- ing Our Resources,” and 1968 examined “The Profession of Many of the concerns of the the 1939 conference, there was a Librarianship in Virginia.” Current 1930s are still familiar topics for us session on the Works Progress Ad- events also came to the forefront today. In 1930, Henry M. Brimm of ministration (WPA) State Library in the 1960s. In 1961, Melville J. the Union Theological Seminary Project. The Honorable James H. Ruggles spoke about “Soviet Librar- covered the “Proper Type of For- Price, Governor of Virginia, made ies,” while Professor Louis D. Rubin mal Instruction for Novice Assis- the main address in 1939. Jr. of Hollins College marked the tants.” In 1931, attendees discussed World War II dominated the suicide of Ernest Hemingway. The the “Certification of Librarians.” 1940s. The war disrupted VLA and concept of using computers and In 1937, the conference offered a its annual conferences, as it did technology in libraries began in panel forum on “Certification and most aspects of American life. In the 1960s, as seen by the following Salaries” as well as one on “State his VLA seventy-fifth anniversary conference addresses: “Libraries in Aid.” article, Henry James Jr. tells us that an Age of Communications Infor- The Great Depression had an no annual conferences were held mation Revolution” by Honorable effect on VLA conferences, too. from 1942–1945 due to the war. John E. Fogerty, House of Repre- Thomas P. Ayer of Richmond Pub- In 1940, the Honorable Francis sentatives, 1966; “Libraries, Codex lic Library presented a session on P. Miller, Member of the Virginia to Cobol” by Melville J. Ruggles, “The Library and the Unemploy- House of Delegates, addressed 1967; and “Introduction to Data ment Situation.” In 1934, the Pub- “Virginia Libraries in the Present Processing” by Joseph Becker, lic Library Section discussed “Fines Crisis.” In 1941, Thomas Pinkney 1969. 1964 saw another visit from During the Depression.” During of the College of William & Mary an ALA president, Edwin Castagna. JULY–SEPTEMBER, 2005 VIRGINIA LIBRARIES PAGE 17

The VLA Annual Conference has been the time to come together to meet authors like Rita Mae Brown, to learn from outstanding librarians like Caroline Parr, to be informed by library leaders like VIVA’s Kathy Perry, and to network with colleagues between sessions.

In 1969, the last conference of the decade looked to the future: “Our Next Decade: What Will the Sev- enties Hold?” The 1970s continued the search for cooperation between libraries. The 1970 conference proclaimed, “Virginia Libraries Cooperate.” In 1971, Verdelle Bradley, Librar- ian at Virginia Union, continued this theme with an address titled “Three Cooperative Programs in Virginia,” while the 1972 conference featured a panel discussion called “Library Cooperation in Virginia.” In 1974, a nod was given to the upcoming Bicentennial in 1976 with a panel discussion on “Oral History and the Bicenten- nial.” Unfortunately, the programs for 1975 and 1976 are missing; it PAGE 18 VIRGINIA LIBRARIES JULY–SEPTEMBER, 2005

Longwood’s Lydia Williams and Patricia Howe can be counted on for lively, member-led sessions, but there is also time at the conference for friends like Nolan Yelich and Jim Rettig to find a quiet moment to talk.

would have been interesting to see if more programs focused on the Bicentennial. Unless included in 1975 or 1976, there were no ALA representatives who addressed the conference in the 1970s. At the 1978 conference, Mrs. Virginius R. Shackelford Jr., Chair of the Vir- ginia Governor’s Conference on Library and Information Services, provided an update on their work. In keeping with the times, the 1980s saw an increase in the discussion of technology, as illus- trated by the following themes: 1980, “Communications for the 80s”; 1981, “Looking at Priorities: From Books to Technology”; 1982, “Resources and Management in the 1980’s: New Problems — New Possibilities”; 1986, “High Touch in a High Tech World”; and 1989, Virginia Library Commission, and the future. Witness such themes as “Pathways to User Success.” Themes Richard T. Sweeney, Director of “Libraries, a Decade of Surprises: also demonstrated a continuing the Public Library of Columbus An Optimistic Forecast for the interest in the subject of coopera- and Franklin County, Ohio; and in 1990s” (1990) and “Focus on the tion, as shown by “Independence 1985, Donald J. Sager, City Librar- Future” (1993). The theme for 1996 through Cooperation” in 1983 and ian and Director of the Milwaukee was also future-oriented: “Librar- “Freedom and Knowledge Give Us County Federated Library System. ies Connect the Commonwealth: the Opportunity to Provide Bet- 1988 and 1989 started to show Weave the Vision.” 1994 looked at ter Service through Cooperation” a shift to renowned authors as both the changes in and future of in 1984. The 1980s brought in speakers — among them Rita Mae technology in the library with the speakers from libraries outside the Brown, Pat Conroy, Henry Taylor, theme “From Quill to Keyboard,” Commonwealth: in 1982, Fred- and Maya Angelou. while 1998 followed with “From eric J. Glazer, Director of the West The 1990s were spent looking to Gutenberg to Gigabytes.” The JULY–SEPTEMBER, 2005 VIRGINIA LIBRARIES PAGE 19

Fairfax County Librarian Sam Clay was able to convince ALA Presi- dent Carla Hayden to participate in a recent conference, while other public library directors made it clear that ours is not a humorless profession.

1990s ended with a glimpse at the other featured authors included We are now almost halfway future, “Virginia Libraries: Values Charles McDowell, Will Manley, through the first decade of the and Visions for the 21st Century.” Nikki Giovanni, and Sven Birkerts. 2000s. So far this decade, we’ve Both authors and ALA offi- ALA made a strong showing, with seen themes that reflect on our cials addressed the conferences of Linda F. Crismond, Executive Di- place in the community: “Celebrate the 1990s. The decade began and rector of ALA, in 1990; Dr. Hardy Virginia’s Libraries,” “A Commu- ended with authors: Patricia D. Franklin, President-Elect of ALA, in nity of Partners,” “People Serving Cornwell in 1990 and David Balda- 1992; and ALA Past Presidents Ann People,” and “Defining Moments.” cci in 1999. In between these years, Symors and E. J. Josey in 1999. Themes such as these remind us PAGE 20 VIRGINIA LIBRARIES JULY–SEPTEMBER, 2005

VLA has cultivated vendor support for the annual conference by ensuring that vendors will have access to current customers and the opportunity to meet new prospects. Below, members take a break from conference activities to enjoy dinner together.

that we are more than providers of strate how Virginia libraries have Supporting Documents technology. This decade the VLA both influenced and been influ- conferences continued to attract enced by the times. Our librar- Virginia Library Association. VLA renowned authors: so far, we’ve ies have adapted to each decade’s Conference programs, 1923–2004. heard addresses by William Styron changes and challenges. The con- (via video), Sarah Paretsky, Rick ferences have been a large part of James, Henry Jr. “Milestones in the Bragg, and a return engagement by our ability to adapt by providing a Evolution of VLA.” In VLA LXXV Rita Mae Brown. We’ve also con- forum to teach each other and be Anniversary Program, 29–37. Vir- tinued our ties with ALA, as seen taught by others who influence the ginia Library Association, 1980. VL by the 2004 address by Dr. Carla field of librarianship from outside Hayden, ALA Past President. the borders of Virginia. The VLA conferences demon- Section 2: Paraprofessionals and Partnerships The Paraprofessional Forum

by Donna Gant

“ t first we were afraid mote the interests of libraries and on the Virginia Libraries edito- no one would show up. library service,” and now mandates rial board. They have held VLA Then people began en- that paraprofessionals serve on the elected office as second vice presi- Atering the small meeting room, Finance and Scholarship commit- dent, treasurer, and secretary, and and kept coming — until the room tees.3 Paraprofessionals volunteer served as executive director. This was full to overflowing. Luckily, it for many other VLA committees, year a paraprofessional leader is on was a room that could be enlarged forums, and regions; they edit our the VLA ballot for ALA Councilor. by opening a room divider.” Lee professional journals and serve Today, the Virginia Library As- Adams, one of the founders of the sociation Paraprofessional Forum Paraprofessional Forum, remem- (VLAPF) holds its own consistently bers the organizational meeting successful two-and-a-half-day con- held at the 1979 VLA Conference Paraprofessionals … ference each spring, contributing at the Homestead.1 have held VLA elected to the fiscal stability of VLA. In 1979, a mere quarter of a century ago, the Virginia Library office as second vice How It Began Association was tacitly an organization for people with master’s president, treasurer, and Lee Adams and her colleague, degrees in library science.2 Today, secretary, and served Margaret Beattie, both paraprofes- the VLA manual explicitly offers sionals at Central Rappahannock membership to “any individual, as executive director. Regional Library, wanted the state organization, or library to pro- association to be more inclusive of PAGE 22 VIRGINIA LIBRARIES JULY–SEPTEMBER, 2005 all the people who work in libraries. They received about one hundred responses to a questionnaire they sent to paraprofessionals at Virginia academic and public libraries in April 1979, indicating “an overwhelming interest in meeting as a group at the VLA conference.” In their memo of April 23, 1979, “Re: VLA Caucus for Paraprofessionals,” Adams and Beattie shared survey results and invited paraprofessionals to attend a meeting on November 8 at the VLA annual conference. Although only twenty-six percent of survey respondents had attended a VLA conference before, eighty-seven percent said they would be interested in attending a meeting for paraprofessionals. Five percent of those responding were VLA members. Respondents “expressed a need for further defini- tion of the paraprofessional and for recognition by the library profession.” In addition, in priority order, they expressed concerns about job training, information about career development, involvement The Paraprofessional Forum Annual Conference also draws in policy decisions affecting staff, bestselling authors — in this case, Sharyn McCrumb. communication between paraprofessionals and professionals, and various areas of work in libraries.4 paraprofessionals may make mean- creativity that has characterized At the Homestead meeting, ingful contributions to [VLA] and the forum throughout its history. which had also been announced may benefit from the Association’s In May 1981, the VLA Council in two issues of Virginia Librar- support and guidance.”7 passed the forum’s resolution to ian Newsletter,5 the group of about These fundamental objectives place high priority on paraprofes- forty people agreed to petition the have changed only slightly through sional recruitment into VLA and re- VLA Council for forum status. The the years as the group has grown in quest that library directors support steering committee for the group influence and support. Additions paraprofessional participation in included Ronald Kaminski (chair), reflect the successful initiatives of VLA.9 All library directors or super- Hope Yelich, Margaret Beattie, Jean the 1990s — the spring conference visors did not embrace this resolu- Marie Peet, and Catherine Elias.6 and the creation of the Outstand- tion. As recently as the early 1990s, The VLA Executive Committee ing Paraprofessional of the Year Beth Perkins, head of circulation at unanimously approved the Para- award.8 Simpson Library, Mary Washington professional Forum at their meeting College, was forced to take personal on December 13, 1979. Objectives leave to attend a VLAPF meeting The 1980s in the successful petition included after her supervisor denied her re- providing support for paraprofes- Paraprofessional Forum chairs and quest to attend it.10 sionals, increasing opportunities executive board members immedi- With VLA Council encourage- for training and development, in- ately began working to fulfill the ment, more paraprofessionals creasing awareness of the role of forum’s objectives, and contin- began to have an active role in the paraprofessionals, and creating a ued through the 1980s to lay the association. In 1981, Lee Adams “formal structure whereby Virginia strong foundation of energy and was appointed to the VLA Mem- JULY–SEPTEMBER, 2005 VIRGINIA LIBRARIES PAGE 23 bership Committee.11 In 1983, about thirty-eight such state as- Here’s how it happened. VLA President Dean Burgess added sociations in 2002, most being af- The first conference, “Future a paraprofessional to the VLA An- filiated with the state library asso- Unlimited: YOU Make It Happen,” nual Conference Planning Com- ciation.15 The VLAPF has national was held May 24–25, 1993, at the mittee. Other VLA committees influence through its conference University of Richmond, the con- recruited paraprofessionals to join and the work of its activists. Vir- ference venue through 2003. The their ranks.12 ginia Beach Public Library staff conference was advertised in Library The forum sponsored a survey member Debbie Wolcott, VLAPF Mosaics and marketed via an ar- of the salaries for paraprofessional chair in 1988, co-chaired the ALA ticle in Virginia Librarian by VLAPF jobs (defined as any position not Membership Initiative Group that member Elna Ann Mayo.18 The re- requiring an MLS) in 1983; ninety- eventually gave birth to the Library sult: 270 people from most of the five systems responded. The report Support Staff Interests Roundtable East Coast states, plus Tennessee, was presented at a program at the (LSSIRT).16 Debbie was one of those Ohio, Wisconsin, and California, VLA Annual Conference, and who shared experiences from visits attended.19 They must have liked the ten-page report, “Who Makes to other support staff groups with the winning combination of infor- What, Where, How: Library Para- the VLAPF Board. mative and entertaining programs professional Salaries in Virginia” on a variety of topics, excellent by Lee Adams, Betty McClellan, keynote speakers, and — a hallmark Sharmee Seid, and Anne Weigard, of the VLAPF conferences — fun was published in 1984.13 …her supervisor and entertaining socials, because An active group needs a striking denied her request they kept returning. Attendance is logo, so the VLAPF held a contest, now regularly well over 400. open to all Virginia library em- to attend…. After successful two-day confer- ployees. From the thirty designs ences in 1993 and 1994, the VLAPF submitted, judges picked two very once again asked for a greater role similar designs and asked the in VLA for paraprofessionals and The 1990s creators, Mike Cody (VCU) and more support from VLA leader- Myreen Nicholson (Norfolk Public It is possible to argue that two of ship. Certainly strides had been Library), to collaborate on the final the most significant things that made through the 1980s, but the product.14 happened in VLA in the 1990s Paraprofessional Forum was still Shortly after its creation, the occurred because Carolyn Tate not achieving all of its objectives. forum began presenting programs attended the New Jersey Associa- In late 1994, the VLAPF leader- and workshops, beginning with the tion of Library Assistants Confer- ship met with John D. Stewart, 1980 VLA Annual Conference and ence. Tate, who was head of circu- President of VLA, to discuss con- continuing in 1981 with a separate lation at Boatwright Library, Uni- cerns of the VLAPF Board. In a fall workshop on staff development versity of Richmond, was chair- letter to Linda Hahne, the 1994 at the University of Richmond. In elect of VLAPF in 1992. Inspired chair of the forum, Stewart sum- 1982, the forum began presenting by the New Jersey conference, she marized the results of that meet- both spring and fall workshops. suggested that the time had come ing. Several recommendations in The forum continues to present a for the Paraprofessional Forum’s this letter proved a watershed for fall “mini-conference” that rotates spring workshop to become a two- paraprofessionals in VLA. The first from VLA region to region each day conference. “I knew that we recommendation tackled the issue year; in 1993, the spring workshop would succeed. The VLAPF had of non-inclusive language in all evolved into the fabulously suc- the talent, dedication, creativity, VLA publications, including the cessful, nationally recognized two- vision, and a willingness to assure VLA Manual — “our language keeps day conference format. success.”17 The conference did suc- separating ‘librarians’ from ‘para- The Virginia Library Associa- ceed and brought not only national professionals.’” tion Paraprofessional Forum is one recognition to the forum, but also Stewart stated that he would rec- of the oldest support staff associa- increasing respect and recognition ommend “to the Editorial Board of tions in the country. According to from VLA Executive Council mem- the Virginia Librarian that it make the Library Support Staff Interests bers. Two watershed events ensued: recommendations … about a name Round Table’s “National Directory a paraprofessional was elected to change using a word or words that of Paraprofessional Organizations” VLA Executive Council and the are inclusive of all workers in our on ALA’s Library Support Staff Re- association’s journal changed its libraries.” Another recommenda- source Center website, there were title. tion stated, “It’s the business of the PAGE 24 VIRGINIA LIBRARIES JULY–SEPTEMBER, 2005

Paraprofessional colleagues share a quiet moment after a conference session.

leadership of VLA to assure that need to make sure they know that tion of professional librarians, or a commitment to the paraprofes- VLA is open to every employee of one of library workers.” They asked sional goes beyond individual pres- every type of library in Virginia; a readers of Virginia Librarian to send idencies and becomes imbedded in master’s degree in library science is their opinions.21 the structure of the association,” not required.” Farynk extolled the The editors received twenty- including recruitment for elected accomplishments of VLAPF and seven letters and emails, some office and other leadership posi- stated, “It will be a milestone to signed by several people, from tions.20 elect in 1995 a Treasurer who also is degreed librarians and paraprofes- During the presidency of Linda sionals; sixteen favored a name Farynk in 1995, these goals were change, eight preferred retaining realized. For the first time in VLA the current name, and three ex- history, two paraprofessionals were “Perhaps it’s time for a pressed no opinion.22 VLA Coun- nominated for VLA elected office. title that reflects what cil approved a name change to Carolyn Tate and Linda Hahne ran the inclusive Virginia Libraries, to for treasurer. Both were strong lead- brings us together, rather take effect with a new editor and ers who had served on VLA Coun- editorial board, with the January– cil during their years as VLAPF than what separates us.” March 1996 issue. The controversy chair; each had successful VLAPF gained national attention when spring conferences to her credit. Library Journal reported the story Linda Hahne, who had financial a paraprofessional.” She asks, “How and put Elna Ann Mayo and Ona expertise, won the election; she sincerely do we communicate the Turner, VLAPF 1996 co-chairs, on did such a good job as treasurer inclusiveness of the association, I the cover of the November 1, 1995, that she was made executive direc- wonder, when we call our journal issue.23 tor after her term. the Virginia Librarian? Is it only for The Paraprofessional Forum Linda Farynk’s “President’s Col- and about librarians? Perhaps it’s launched two awards in 1996. umn” in the April–June 1995 Vir- time to consider a title with which The first, given annually, honors ginia Librarian made it absolutely our next Treasurer can identify. the Outstanding Paraprofessional clear that she supported the Para- Perhaps it’s time for a title that re- of the Year. Beth Perkins received professional Forum’s objectives. flects what brings us together, rath- the first award. The second award, She observed, “By a very wide mar- er than what separates us.” given occasionally, recognizes an gin, [the VLAPF spring conference] In that same issue of Virginia Outstanding Supporter of Para- draws more people than any other Librarian, co-editors Lucretia Mc- professionals. Linda Farynk re- program sponsored by a single VLA Culley and Dan Ream adamantly ceived the first award. This award unit.” But fewer than one quarter opposed the title change, arguing, has been given only three times of the people attending were VLA “VLA is, and should remain, pri- since 1996. In 1997, the forum members. “Clearly … we need to marily a professional association honored Bill Whitesides; in 2000, do a better job of letting parapro- for (pardon our language) ‘librar- Tom Hehman; and in 2004, Calvin fessionals know that they are wel- ians.’ … Perhaps the key question Boyer and Morel Fry — nominated come to join the association. We here is whether VLA is an associa- by their staffs.24 JULY–SEPTEMBER, 2005 VIRGINIA LIBRARIES PAGE 25

1999 saw the first parapro- entertaining, on a variety of fessional elected as an Hon- topics, so all attendees can orary Life Member in VLA. find something of interest. Ruth J. Turner “was honored Include programs that are for her work with the forum’s hot topics in the library field; board over many years, for other work-related topics, her services as treasurer of the such as staff morale; and sub- forum, and for her work on jects that can apply to both several VLA committees.”25 work and home life, such as stress and time management, or dressing for success on a The New Century budget. Add a liberal help- The forum continues to grow ing of fun and entertaining in size and influence. VLA activities, such as socials, pic- presidents refer frequently to nics, or receptions, with door the forum, its spring confer- prizes. Be sure to advertise ence, and the work of parapro- your event. Provide plenty fessionals in the President’s of opportunities for meeting Column in Virginia Libraries. old and new friends, and add Paraprofessionals, often forum the chance to win prizes for a leaders, have been elected to good cause. The Paraprofessional Forum Scholar- VLA offices. Lydia Williams, VLA Excellent keynote speakers. ship is named for the late Clara Stan- secretary in 2005, observes, “Over These have included ALA presidents ley, a dedicated Forum leader. the years, I have witnessed an Barbara Ford and Carla Hayden; increase in the number of parapro- Library Mosaics editor Ed Marti- fessionals being invited to sit on nez; American Libraries columnist Don’t Forget the Conferences! committees and to run for posi- Will Manley (“The Professional tions on the VLA Executive Com- Many paraprofessionals through- in All of Us”); and motivational mittee. I think this is a result of the out the state and country associ- speaker Dale Henry (“Do you sizzle open communication that exists ate VLAPF with its spring confer- or fizzle?”), among others. Lydia because of the VLA Paraprofessional ence. The Paraprofessional Forum Williams remembers being at Dale Forum.”26 Williams was co-chair of Annual Conference is consistently Henry’s keynote address: “He was a the VLAPF in 1998, has served on successful in every way, usually great motivational speaker, but he several VLA standing committees, realizing a net profit and contrib- was also very funny. I loved hear- and is currently on the board of uting to VLA’s financial health. ing all the laughter around me and Virginia Libraries. It continues to draw attendance watching the faces of those in the VLAPF awarded its first scholar- from as many as fifteen states and audience as they reacted to Mr. ship for a paraprofessional who was includes a mix of paraprofession- Henry’s crazy stories.”30 pursuing a graduate library science als in academic, public, and special Attending authors. Some of the degree in 2000. The forum has been libraries. 28 notable authors invited to the con- raising money for scholarships with Jean Tancredi of Virginia Beach ference include Sharyn McCrumb its popular raffles at the spring con- Public Library, a VLA member (2004), Donna Andrews (2001), ference since the mid-90s. The sum since the early 1990s, has been to Ann McMillan (2000 and 2001), raised is combined with other con- several conferences. She returns and Felicia Mason and Cathy Max- tributed funds that the VLA Schol- because the conferences provide “a well (2002). arship Committee disburses to chance to be out and about, to get Interesting programs. Sessions successful applicants. In 2002, the out and talk to others; a chance to on hot library topics have covered VLAPF Scholarship was renamed learn something new, to reaffirm, security, difficult patrons, digitiza- the Clara Stanley VLAPF Scholar- to see I’m on the right track.”29 tion, finding grants, web design, ship to honor a member who was What is the formula for success genealogy, AV cataloging, cyber- on the VLAPF board for more than that the Paraprofessional Forum has crime, reader’s advisory for every ten years and forum co-chair in so successfully followed since 1993? type of customer, and freedom of 2000.27 VLAPF co-chairs now serve Engage excellent keynote speak- information. as voting members of the Scholar- ers. Schedule a combination of Other work-related topics have ship Committee. programs that are informative and included supervising library staff, PAGE 26 VIRGINIA LIBRARIES JULY–SEPTEMBER, 2005

presentation skills and other as the University of Richmond try, and its work has provided communication-related topics, staff (1993–2003) and Holiday Inn Se- encouragement and a foundation development, and working relation- lect/Koger South Conference Cen- for Virginia paraprofessionals who ships. Many universal topics have ter (2004–2005). have been honored by national been covered, from time and con- VLA leaders. The forum makes professional publications. Revenue flict management to financial plan- a point to invite VLA officers. Tom from the Paraprofessional Forum ning, identity theft, and leadership. Hehman, VLA President in 1998, Annual Conference, along with Some “how-to for work or play” ses- says, “I experienced an extremely that from the VLA Annual Confer- sions have included Ukrainian egg lively, engaging, energetic, and very ence, helps “to balance the VLA painting, origami, scrapbooking, effective conference, beautifully budget as well as add to our reserve and conservation of photographic organized by Virginia’s paraprofes- funds.” According to Linda Hahne, material. sionals, who serve as national role VLA Executive Director, the net Socials. Themed socials have models. If you’re a paraprofession- revenue from the conferences given people the chance to dress al, you need to attend; if you’re an “helps to keep VLA from raising up in Western attire or poodle administrator, you need to support membership fees [while] still pro- skirts and bobby socks. Among attendance. I give it ‘two thumbs viding the same level of service.”35 many great door prizes, one of the up’ and five stars.”33 State and national activist Caro- most memorable has been Um- Sharing expertise with other lyn Tate proudly states, “VLA has brella Hats. There’s always good state paraprofessional groups. provided unbounded support for music and a chance to boogie! Par- paraprofessionals, which places ticipants are invited to come a day VLA in the forefront of state associ- early to enjoy a picnic, reception, ations. ALA is working on inclusive or author banquet — you may find “ALA is working on language for all members — VLA you need to make it an official part inclusive language for accomplished this over ten years of the conference. ago. ALA recently created market- Raffles and prizes. Each year, all members — VLA ing strategies to recruit more sup- themed baskets and raffle tickets port staff as members — VLA is also help fund VLA scholarships for accomplished this ahead on this issue.”36 students studying for a master’s in over ten years ago.” Both Library Mosaics and Library library science. Great door prizes Journal recognize outstanding para- have included the P. Buckley Moss professionals (also called support Print, donated annually by the P. staff). Until 2000, Library Journal Buckley Moss Society of Staunton After the first conference in 1993, had recognized only a Librarian of and framed by Christopher’s Fine both the New Jersey Association the Year. They changed that policy Arts and Framing in Farmville. The of Library Assistants and the New and added an annual Paraprofes- 2004 scholarship raffle raised a re- York State Library Assistants’ As- sional of the Year Award because cord $2,261!31 sociation entered into a continu- of Carolyn Tate’s efforts. Tate not Awards and honors. The Para- ing reciprocal agreement with the only wrote LJ a persuasive letter ex- professional Forum honors deserv- VLAPF to send a representative to plaining why it should honor para- ing people through awards such as their respective conferences for just professionals, but, with the help of the Outstanding Paraprofessional the cost of transportation. “It is an her colleagues around the country, of the Year and the Outstanding excellent avenue to learn from one “submitted to LJ a petition contain- Supporter of Paraprofessionals. The another and provide a wondering the signatures of 2,343 librar- forum also recognizes hard work- ful networking opportunity,” says ians, directors, and paraprofession- ers for the Paraprofessional Forum, Carolyn Tate.34 als from 46 states and Canada.”37 such as Clara Stanley, Carolyn Beth Perkins of Mary Washington Tate, Ona Turner Dowdy, Beth Per- College was the first paraprofes- Accomplishments and Influence kins, and many more. The VLA sional honored by Library Journal.38 Paraprofessional Forum Award as- In its first quarter-century, the Vir- Lydia Williams of Longwood Col- sists “someone who is unable to ginia Library Association Parapro- lege, one of “three more dyna- acquire local funding to attend the fessional Forum has accomplished mos,” was a runner-up for Library conference.”32 much for all library staff in the Journal’s 2005 Paraprofessional of Location. The forum deliber- state of Virginia. It has influenced the Year.39 In 2004, Library Mosa- ately seeks attractive sites with the growth of paraprofessional ics honored Carolyn Tate as 2004 places to stroll or sit and visit, such associations throughout the coun- Support Staff of the Year; she was JULY–SEPTEMBER, 2005 VIRGINIA LIBRARIES PAGE 27

a finalist in 2002.40 Library Journal librarians and paraprofessionals • Has been a member of VLA for at recently began featuring “Movers look at each other and their jobs. least one year and Shakers” in an annual supple- Lydia Williams says, “I believe that • Demonstrates excellence in ment that recognizes the achieve- being a member of VLA and the performance in his/her field of ments of all library staff. Mary Paraprofessional Forum is essential expertise Buckley, George Mason University, to the professional development • Fosters communication among and Susan Paddock, Virginia Beach of library support staff. … Being library employees throughout Public Library, were among those involved in VLA over the years has the Commonwealth honored in 2003.41 Each of these changed the way I view my job. I • Advances and strengthens the women honored by Library Journal don’t just work in a library — I have image of paraprofessionals and Library Mosaics have served on evolved into an advocate for librar- the VLAPF Board. Williams suc- ies. Continuing education and 1996 Beth Perkins (Mary Wash- ceeded Paddock as VLA secretary. networking opportunities are the ington College) Through work on the VLA two key elements for the change, 1997 Ona Turner (Knight-Capron Council, workshops, and confer- and VLAPF provides both.”42 As Library, Lynchburg College) ences, this large, active forum has Elna Ann Mayo so elegantly put it, 1998 Linda Hahne (Norfolk educated and informed all library “You’ve Come a Long Way, Para- Public Library) staff of the issues facing paraprofes- professionals!”43 1999 Patricia White (Annandale sionals; provided training; helped Campus, Northern Virginia paraprofessionals gain leadership Community College) Outstanding Paraprofessional positions throughout VLA; and 2000 Patricia Jones (Virginia Award guided the VLA leadership to long- Beach Public Library) term commitment to an associa- Presented annually by the Parapro- 2001 Lydia Williams (Longwood tion that includes all library work- fessional Forum to an individual College Library) ers. VLAPF has changed the way who: PAGE 28 VIRGINIA LIBRARIES JULY–SEPTEMBER, 2005

2002 Mary Fran Nash (Longwood Virginia Library Association Records, College Library) 1905–1999, Accession 40280, Organi- 2003 Anne Sheldon (Longwood zation Records Collection, Library of University Library) Virginia. 21 2004 Margaret Toscano Linda Farynk, “President’s Col- umn,” Virginia Librarian 41.2 (1995): (Williamsburg Regional 2. Lucretia McCulley and Dan Ream, Library) “From the Editors,” Virginia Librarian 2005 Dreama Croft (York County 41.2 (1995): 3. Public Library) 22 “Letters to the Editors,” Vir- ginia Librarian 41.3 (1995): 2. — Donna Gant serves as Librar- 23 Evan St. Lifer, “We ARE the Li- ian II, Cataloging Services, at Vir- brary! Support Staff Speak Out,” Li- ginia Beach Public Library. She can brary Journal 120.18 (1995): 30–35. be reached at (757) 431-3055 or 24 Paraprofessional Conference [email protected]. reports in Virginia Libraries¸ 1997– 2004. 25 Mayo, “They Could,” 8. 26 Lydia Williams, email message to author, 14 June 2005. Notes 27 Mary Fran Nash, “Honor- 1 Lee Adams, telephone con- Noted historian Henry Wiencek makes ing One of Our Own,” Virginia Li- versation with author, 9 June 2005. a point during a VLAPF Conference pre- braries 49.2 (2003): 6–7. 2 Paraprofessionals were not ex- sentation. 28 Paraprofessional Conference re- cluded, but they were not actively reports. cruited. A few paraprofessionals were 29 Jean Tancredi, telephone conver- members in 1979. Lee Adams and They Could,” Virginia Libraries 46.4 sation with author, 2 June 2005. Margaret Beattie, memo to paraprofes- (2000): 7. 30 Williams, email message. sionals, “Re: VLA Caucus for Parapro- 13 Paraprofessional Forum Notes, 31 Lydia Williams, “VLA Parapro- fessionals,” 23 April 1979, Virginia Li- Minutes, Book 1, 1984, Virginia Library fessional Forum — 2004 Conference,” brary Association Records, 1905–1999, Association Records, 1905–1999, Acces- Virginia Libraries 50.3 (2004): 17. Accession 34959, Organization Records sion 34962, Organization Records Col- 32 “VLA Paraprofessional Forum Collection, Library of Virginia. lection, Library of Virginia. Awards and Scholarships,” in Virginia 3 Virginia Library Association, 14 Ibid. Library Association [website] 16 March “2004 VLA Manual & By-Laws,” in 15 Meralyn Meadows, compiler, 2005 [cited 24 June 2005]; available Virginia Library Association [website] “National Directory of Paraprofessional from http://www.vla.org. 1996–2004 [cited 24 June 2005]; avail- Associations,” in American Library Asso- 33 Tom Hehman, “President’s Col- able from http://www.vla.org. ciation Library Support Staff Resource Cen- umn: From Paraprofessionals to Giga- 4 Adams and Beattie. ter [website] 2005 [cited 24 June 2005]; bytes: Thoughts about a Few Things,” 5 “Paraprofessionals Plan Session,” available from http://www.ala.org/ Virginia Libraries 44.2 (1998): 2. Virginia Librarian Newsletter 35.3 (1979): ala/hrdr/librarysupportstaff/Library_ 34 Tate. 5. “VLA Happenings,” Virginia Librar- Support_Staff_Resource_Center.htm. 35 Linda Hahne, email message to ian Newsletter 35.5 (1979): 8. 16 AnnaMarie Kehnast, “From MIG author, 9 June 2005. 6 “Paraprofessionals Seek Forum to LSSIRT: A Support Staff Odyssey,” 36 Tate. Status in VLA,” Virginia Librarian News- Library Mosaics 14.4 (2003): 23. 37 “LJ to Honor Support Staffers,” letter 35.6 (1979): 2. 17 Carolyn Tate, email message to Library Journal 124.20 (1999): 26. 7 “VLA Happenings,” Virginia Li- author, 13 June 2005. 38 Berry, 40–42. brarian Newsletter 36.1 (1980): 1. 18 Elna Ann Mayo, “You’ve Come a 39 “Three More Dynamos,” Library 8 Virginia Library Association. Long Way, Paraprofessionals!,” Virginia Journal 130.4 (2005): 41. 9 Paraprofessional Forum Notes, Librarian 39.1 (1993): 17–18. 40 Ed Martinez, “Carolyn Tate: Minutes, Book 1, 1981, Virginia Library 19 Paraprofessional Forum Report, 2004 Support Staff of the Year,” Library Association Records, 1905–1999, Ac- Minutes of VLA Council, 11 June 1993; Mosaics 15.3 (2004): 6. “In Recognition cession 34962, Organization Records Carolyn M. Tate to Liz Hamilton, of Our Outstanding Finalists,” Library Collection, Library of Virginia. President, VLA, 30 July 1993, VLA cor- Mosaics 13.3 (2002): 10. 10 John N. Berry III, “Paraprofes- respondence, 1992–1993, Virginia Li- 41 “LJ Movers and Shakers 2003,” sional of the Year 2000: Beth Perkins,” brary Association Records, 1905–1999, Library Journal 128.5 (2003): 49, 62. Library Journal 125.5 (2000): 41. Accession 40280, Organization Records 42 Williams, email message. 11 Paraprofessional Forum Notes, Collection, Library of Virginia. 43 Mayo, “Paraprofessionals,” 17. VL 1981. 20 John Stewart to Linda Hahne, 12 Elna Ann Mayo, “They Thought 20 October 1994, VLA Council 1994, JULY–SEPTEMBER, 2005 VIRGINIA LIBRARIES PAGE 29

A Century of Partnership: LVA and VLA

by Sandra Gioia Treadway

n the fall of 1905 when State Librarian John Pendleton Kennedy and his staff issued Ian invitation to library leaders across Virginia to attend a meeting to discuss forming a statewide library association, the small group of librarians and educators who traveled to Richmond to explore the idea must have had some in- kling that they were about to make history. Not history as in a “first,” for in the 1890s several states had already heeded urgings from the American Library Association and had established state organizations to promote libraries. The group that met in the Virginia State Li- brary building in Capitol Square on the evening of December 6, 1905, This building (now known as the Old Finance Building), just down the hill from the however, did launch “a new era in Executive Mansion in Capitol Square, housed the Virginia State Library from 1895 the Virginia library field.” They through 1940. proclaimed publicly what they had been discussing among themselves section of the state.” The opportu- for some time: first, that “libraries Virginia’s citizens could nity for an effective and enduring are as important as any branch in partnership between the state’s pre- the great system of public educa- never enjoy quality mier public library and the state’s tion,” and second, that Virginia’s growing library community was citizens could never enjoy qual- library service unless thus born.2 ity library service unless librar- librarians and educators The Virginia State Library, the ians and educators throughout the oldest publicly funded library in state joined forces to advocate the … joined forces to the Commonwealth, was well po- cause.1 sitioned in December 1905 to take The charter members of the new advocate the cause. the lead on behalf of Virginia’s Virginia Library Association se- libraries. Then about to mark its lected the State Library as the most eighty-third birthday, the library appropriate institutional home for had been founded in January 1823 the fledgling organization. The State Library will be the center of Richmond Times-Dispatch, which the work in Virginia, will give the covered the December 6 meet- benefit of its counsel and experi- Sandra Gioia Treadway is Deputy Li- ing, explained to its readers how ence to smaller libraries and, when brarian at the Library of Virginia. She this designation would expand requested, will generally assist in can be reached at [email protected]. the library’s responsibilities: “The the conduct of library affairs in any va.us. PAGE 30 VIRGINIA LIBRARIES JULY–SEPTEMBER, 2005 when the General Assembly the evacuation fire. After first provided funding for the war, the state began to the purchase of books and address its neglected archi- materials for a reference li- val records and hired local brary at the state capitol. It historian William Price took state government sev- Palmer “to take charge of eral more years to work out the manuscripts in the the details of an admin- state library, … to assort, istrative structure, but by index, and prepare the 1830 the responsibility for same for preservation … the library had been placed with authority to publish in the hands of the Secre- such of the same.” 3 Palm- tary of the Commonwealth, er’s efforts culminated in who used the title “state li- publication of the Calendar brarian” when conducting of Virginia State Papers, an library-related business. eleven-volume work listing The General Assembly also all the documents in the created a Joint Committee state archives dating from on the Library, a group of 1652 onward that had sur- legislators who oversaw the vived the ravages of time. library and approved new Published between 1875 purchases for its collection. and 1892, the Calendar The Secretary of the Com- became an indispensable monwealth was given custody of This distinctive bookplate is found in resource for students of early Vir- all the books and papers that the many of the volumes that once be- ginia history. officers of the colonial and state longed to Virginia’s colonial Council. By 1890, the state library’s col- governments had accumulated over The volumes are now housed in the lection comprised more than the years for their reference. These Library of Virginia’s Special Collections 35,000 volumes and approximately materials formed the nucleus of Department. 200,000 manuscripts, as well as the new state library — a collection thousands of maps, scores of por- that included seventeenth- and traits of notable Virginians, and a eighteenth-century works of law, documents and publications were substantial flag collection that had religion, science, geography, natu- jumbled together in no discernable been donated to the state. With ral history, and politics, as well as order and had begun to fill up ta- citizen use of the library’s collec- thousands of manuscripts and gov- bles, hallways, and a large portion tions increasing, the General As- ernment records generated by the of the capitol’s attic. Researchers sembly decided to build a new governor, the legislature, the trea- complained about the unorganized facility to house the library, and sury, and the state courts as they condition of the archives, but the in the summer of 1895 the library conducted their routine business Secretary of the Commonwealth moved into a suite of rooms in a on behalf of the public. Although had little free time to impose order large government office building in the state library dates its official be- on the chaos. The library was bur- Capitol Square, just down the hill ginning to early in the nineteenth glarized twice during the Civil from the Executive Mansion. The century, its collections extend back War and lost many valuable books library shared its new quarters with much farther and include rare vol- and documents at the war’s end a number of other departments of umes and unique holdings of great when vandals and souvenir hunt- government. Several years after significance to Virginia and Ameri- ers made off with whatever struck this move, the General Assembly can history. their fancy. Fortunately, the library followed the lead of other states in The library’s collections grew was spared complete devastation reconstituting the library as a sepa- steadily through the ensuing thirty in April 1865 when the fire that rate agency, governed by a board of years, and gradually the rooms set destroyed Richmond’s commercial directors with the power to hire a aside for the library near the gover- district stopped short of Capitol professionally trained state librar- nor’s office in the capitol began to Square. Many irreplaceable state ian. The first meeting of the new li- overflow. In 1856, the shelves held and local judicial records that had brary board took place in July 1903, about 17,000 carefully arranged been stored in city warehouses for and three months later the board volumes, while the state’s official safekeeping, however, did perish in enticed John Pendleton Kennedy JULY–SEPTEMBER, 2005 VIRGINIA LIBRARIES PAGE 31

Right. The reading room in the first Virginia State Library building shortly after the library’s move from over- crowded rooms in the Capitol in 1895. This may well have been the room in which the December 1905 meeting that created VLA took place.

Below. In the 1930s and 1940s, the State Library’s Extension Division sent bookmobiles to rural areas across the state without library service. These children in Orange County are delight- edly exploring the contents of one of these bookmobiles.

delightful places in parish registers, and other schol- the city.”4 The library arly works also appeared under the made its collections library’s imprint. In 1940, when more accessible by historian Lester J. Cappon surveyed cataloging its printed the literature in the field of Virgin- holdings using a new ia and Southern history, he praised classification system the library for its outstanding con- developed by the Li- tributions, stating that no other brary of Congress and organization had done as much by joining with other to promote the study of Virginia’s lending libraries to es- past. tablish a rudimentary Kennedy also kept his promise interlibrary loan sys- to the founders of the Virginia tem. The library also Library Association and worked followed the Library assiduously to improve library ser- of Congress’s lead by vice across the state. The library beginning to publish staff collected and published sta- Virginia’s most im- tistics about Virginia’s libraries and to leave a position with the Library portant state papers, making them produced a directory of Virginia of Congress to serve as state librar- more readily available to research- libraries (which sadly fit on three ian. With a staff of four, Kennedy ers. Between 1905 and 1915, the typewritten pages), including the began to transform the state library library published a thirteen-vol- names of their directors, the dates into a modern entity with a firm ume edition of the Journals of the of their founding, and the sizes of focus on public service. The library House of Burgesses of Virginia, which their collections. Kennedy also pro- expanded its hours to include eve- was followed in subsequent years posed a traveling libraries project nings between October and May, by editions of the legislative and intended to bring small circulating with an eye to attracting those executive journals of the colonial collections to citizens in Virginia’s whose jobs did not permit them to council, the journals of the Coun- rural areas. When the General As- use the library during the day. The cil of State, and the surviving let- sembly failed to fund this initia- Richmond News Leader encouraged ters of Virginia’s revolutionary-era tive, he moved forward anyway. He citizens to visit the library’s reading governors. Bibliographies, check- convinced Virginia’s railroads to room, calling it “one of the most lists, monographs, editions of early carry boxes of books from commu- PAGE 32 VIRGINIA LIBRARIES JULY–SEPTEMBER, 2005 nity to community free of charge and secured donations of books for the traveling libraries from women’s clubs and other civic groups. By 1934, demand for the traveling library service had become so great that ninety-seven of Virginia’s one hundred counties used the service. Popular as they were, these small boxes of books could not possibly fill Virginians’ growing education and information needs, and in 1922 the library created an Exten- sion Division whose mission was to assist communities in establishing their own libraries. The state library had only limited resources to devote to this monumental task, however, as Virginia (as did most An early traveling library box, which held between forty and fifty books, stationed in of the rest of the South) lagged far E. G. McGehee’s store in Abilene, Charlotte County. behind the nation in the availabil- ity of public library service. When tion of $50,000, administered by that there simply was no room for the Extension Division began, only the state library, marked an impor- further acquisitions.5 six Virginia cities and no counties tant milestone in library history. It McIlwaine was also concerned had publicly financed circulating was the foundation of the current about the library’s ability to protect libraries. In 1922, library service in state-aid program that is as vital the collections placed in his care, Virginia ranked thirty-second out to the welfare of Virginia’s public as the building that the library of the forty-eight states. libraries today as it was when it shared with the auditor of public To help make its case for librar- began more than sixty years ago. accounts, the state treasurer, the ies, in April 1928 the State Library’s The state library grew quickly in adjutant general, and several other Extension Division launched a the years following its move into a government departments was not quarterly journal titled Virginia separate building in Capitol Square fireproof. The gravity of the situ- Libraries, which also served as the and its creation as an independent ation came home to legislators in unofficial organ of the Virginia state agency. The collections in February 1916 when a fire broke Library Association. Soon its pages particular expanded by leaps and out in the basement of the build- reported a major step forward in bounds, and by early in the 1910s ing, causing smoke and water dam- the campaign to improve library space was at a premium again. age to historical records from the service in Virginia with the an- Henry Read McIlwaine, who had auditor’s office. The state built a nouncement of a resolution passed succeeded Kennedy as state librar- small fireproof annex on the south by the Virginia Federation of ian in 1907, alerted state officials side of the library building and re- Women’s Clubs committing that to the inadequacy of the library’s placed the library’s wooden shelves organization to a coordinated lob- space, especially the cramped quar- with metal ones, but these were bying effort on behalf of statewide ters in the archives reading room, only stopgap measures. By early in public library service. Budget cuts which he described as “fearfully the 1920s, McIlwaine had begun during the Great Depression forced congested.” McIlwaine reminded a public campaign for another li- the state library to curtail publica- the governor and the members of brary building. Among those who tion of Virginia Libraries, but the the General Assembly in 1911 that threw their support his way was concerted campaign to expand li- the library contained “probably Virginius Dabney, editor of the brary service in Virginia continued. the most valuable manuscript col- Richmond Times-Dispatch. By 1936, The first major victory occurred in lection in the United States outside the pressure for a library facility 1942 when the General Assembly, of the Library of Congress.” He that would have room for collec- responding to citizen pressure, ap- added that “its value could be very tion growth and provide proper proved a state grant program to greatly increased by the addition storage conditions for Virginia’s support the creation of local librar- of material in the various execu- priceless historical records had be- ies. This first state-aid appropria- tive departments of the State,” but come so intense that the General JULY–SEPTEMBER, 2005 VIRGINIA LIBRARIES PAGE 33

Assembly relented and created a The library also took responsi- (including state libraries) across the State Library Building Commission bility for the state’s records man- country. The Virginia State Library to prepare for construction of a agement program, advising state was no exception. With funds to new building. agencies on retention procedures hire library development consul- The groundbreaking ceremony for government documents and tants and to award grants to lo- on a site donated by the city of guiding them in the appropriate calities to establish public libraries, Richmond between Eleventh and disposal of nonessential records. the library was able to move much Governor Streets adjacent to Capi- To mark the 350th anniversary of more aggressively toward fulfill- tol Square took place in December the founding of Jamestown, the ment of one of the most important 1938. The new structure offered library entered into an ambitious goals expressed by the founders five times as much space as the partnership with the Colonial of VLA. By 1970, more than half old building, special stack areas Williamsburg Foundation, the Uni- of the state’s ninety-six counties for rare books and archival mate- versity of Virginia, and the Virginia and all but one of its independent rials, and a distinctive Art Deco Historical Society to send an agent cities had local library service. By interior. When the library opened to Great Britain to identify records the 1980s, Virginia boasted more in December 1940, it had a staff of in British repositories relating to than ninety public library systems thirty-two professional librarians Virginia’s early history. Many of serving every city and all but three and archivists and thirty-one sup- these records no longer survived counties. The last locality to estab- port staff. lish library service signed on in Under the leadership of state 2004. librarians Wilmer Lee Hall (1934– The gravity of the The LSA evolved into the LSCA 1946) and Randolph Warner in 1964, adding the word construc- Church (1946–1972), the library situation came home tion to the name of the legislation made the most of its new home with the creation of a separate and continued its growth and ex- to legislators … when grant program to assist localities pansion. Following World War II, a fire broke out in in erecting modern library facili- the library established a publica- ties. In 1996, the federal program tions program staffed by histori- the basement…. evolved further with the Library ans who produced documentary Services and Technology Act, editions and books about Virginia which reflected the revolution that history based on materials in the on the American side of the Atlan- technology had brought to the li- archives; and in 1951, the library tic. The more than 900 reels of mi- brary and information profession. launched the popular quarterly his- crofilmed documents that consti- The LSTA program (recently reau- tory magazine Virginia Cavalcade. tute the Virginia Colonial Records thorized by Congress) has been The library also began to accept Project are available today at the vital in enabling state libraries large collections of older records library and its partner institutions, as well as public libraries to take from state agencies and localities, facilitating the study of Virginia advantage of rapidly changing so that by 1971 the manuscript from Jamestown in 1607 through technology. Using state funds, the holdings reached fifteen million the American Revolution. Virginia State Library entered the items — more than five times the Of all the initiatives launched technological age in 1975 when it number that had been moved into within the library in this period, joined the Southeastern Library the building in 1940. Given the none was more significant than the Network (SOLINET) and began age of many of the printed and library development program made employing computers to catalog its archival items in the collection, possible through the pathbreak- holdings. Soon thereafter came the the library had a strong interest in ing Library Services Act passed by inauguration of a union catalog for (though extremely limited funds Congress in 1956. With this land- Virginia libraries (CAVALIR), retro- for) conservation and preservation. mark program, the United States spective conversion of the library’s By establishing a relationship with government declared that citizen entire card catalog into electronic the internationally renowned resto- access to libraries was essential to form early in the 1980s, and the ration and paper expert William J. the survival of democracy and that creation in 1990 of the Virginia Barrow and allowing Barrow to op- financial assistance for libraries Library and Information Network erate a restoration laboratory in the ranked among the nation’s top pri- linking Virginia’s libraries to each new library building, the library orities. LSA funding, administered other and to the Internet for the won a reputation for being at the through the state library agency first time. State funding for tech- forefront of the conservation field. in each state, transformed libraries nology, however, never kept pace PAGE 34 VIRGINIA LIBRARIES JULY–SEPTEMBER, 2005

tion challenges. How can we ensure that readers and researchers have access to today’s digital-born material one hundred years from now? How will libraries look and how will they be regarded by citizens and governments as the age of the Internet and Google moves forward? These are only a few of the many issues that all libraries face today. Just as it was important for libraries and library advocates to work together early in the twentieth century to find solutions, it is even more vital today. The Library of Virginia is proud of its long association and many The reading room in the second Virginia State Library building on Capitol Street, partnerships with the state’s public, adjacent to the north side of Capitol Square, circa 1970. academic, and special libraries. We are delighted to have played a special role in the creation of VLA and with the need. LSTA funds made a collection’s needs in the twenty- are honored to serve as the institu- crucial difference that allowed the first century as well as to increase tional home for the association’s library to begin a program to digi- the public’s awareness of and access papers. We salute all those who tize unique Virginia documents to the library’s holdings and staff contribute their time and talent and photographs for widespread expertise. In preparation for the to continuing VLA’s outstanding use. Today, LSTA funds are de- move and to enhance the library’s record of accomplishment, and we voted primarily to Find It Virginia, visibility and stature as an edu- look forward to working with the a website containing databases of cational and cultural agency, the leadership of VLA during its sec- reference works, encyclopedias, General Assembly in 1994 changed ond century as together we chart newspaper and magazine articles, the library’s name from the Virgin- a future course for our profession health and business information, ia State Library and Archives to the and the citizens we serve. and much more, all accessible Library of Virginia. twenty-four hours a day to all Vir- The Library of Virginia has come Notes ginia library cardholders. Find It a long way in the past century, but 1 Richmond Times-Dispatch, 7 De- Virginia ensures that all citizens of the challenges that lie ahead look cember 1905; preamble to the Virginia the Commonwealth have equal ac- as daunting today as they did to Library Association constitution, Vir- cess to essential information and the founders of VLA one hundred ginia Library Association Records, Or- opportunities for lifelong learning years ago. All Virginians now have ganization Records, Acc 32434, Library that would be impossible without ready access to library service, but of Virginia, Richmond. the federal LSTA program. the quality and comprehensive- 2 Richmond Times-Dispatch, 7 De- Technological and environmen- ness of that service differs widely cember 1905; unless otherwise noted, tal concerns prompted yet another from place to place. There still are historical information in this article is move for the Virginia State Library. libraries with serious space, staff- taken from Brent Tarter, “A Rich Store- In 1997, the library moved into a ing, training, equipment, and re- house of Knowledge: A History of the modern five-and-a-half-story build- source needs. Technology costs are Library of Virginia,” in The Common ing prominently situated on Broad rising faster than local, state, and Wealth: Treasures from the Collections of the Library of Virginia, ed. Sandra Gioia Street, just north of the Capitol federal budgets. Expensive elec- Treadway and Edward D. C. Campbell Square complex. With 316,500 tronic resources are vying with tra- Jr. (Richmond: Library of Virginia, square feet of office and storage ditional print materials for scarce 1997), 3–64. space, the equivalent of fifty-five acquisition dollars, forcing library 3 Tarter, 17. miles of shelving, and state-of- staff to make excruciating choices. 4 Richmond News Leader, 27 May the-art environmental controls Increasingly, information is gener- 1904. and computer technology, the new ated exclusively in digital format, 5 Annual Report of the Virginia State building was designed to meet the posing as yet unresolved preserva- Library (1910–1911), 23–25. VL JULY–SEPTEMBER, 2005 VIRGINIA LIBRARIES PAGE 35

The Win, Win Machine Dennis Robison Reflects on VIVA, Undergraduate Libraries, and Library Instruction

by Jim Gwin

n the last decade of the leadership of Dennis Robison twentieth century, no from JMU, helped to provide program had a greater a major foundation for VIVA’s Iimpact on the higher education formal creation. library community in Virginia Dennis Robison, then Dean than the Virtual Library of Vir- of Learning Resources at JMU, ginia (VIVA). This consortium was the leader among the of more than seventy state and state’s smaller universities’ independent academic librar- library directors in pushing ies dramatically changed the for a strong, flexible system way these libraries cooperated to share resources. Dennis, and shared their resources. with the help of his staff, con- The Virtual Library of Vir- …the modules are as vinced his somewhat hesitant ginia (VIVA) was officially flexible as possible so colleagues from VT and UVA born in 1994, when the state to assist JMU in the sharing of higher education coordinat- that anyone from any the three libraries’ consider- ing body, the State Council of able journal resources virtual- Higher Education in Virginia discipline can use them. ly, by using the new and fast- (SCHEV), helped secure more developing telefacsimile (fax) than five million dollars from technology for interlibrary the Virginia legislature for loan. Within a few months resource sharing, collection of setting up this initial pro- development, and technology gram, journal articles were training for the state’s colleges, being sent via fax to libraries universities, and community in the three institutions with colleges. This incredible allo- a turnaround time on average cation was possible in part be- of twenty-four hours. This was cause of the highly successful a remarkable accomplishment experiment conducted three at the time and offered tangi- years earlier (1991). From this ble proof to many in the Vir- initial effort, an impressive ginia higher education com- track record of electronic docu- munity of what cooperation could ment delivery among three Vir- “…you could see that potentially yield in the emerging ginia academic libraries — James virtual world. Madison University (JMU), Virgin- library resources Robison, who retired from ia Tech (VT), and the University weren’t keeping pace JMU in 1997, now lives in Eden- of Virginia (UVA) — demonstrated that through collaboration and with the needs of the resource sharing, all institutions Jim Gwin is Head of Collections Devel- of higher education could be bet- institution’s users.” opment and Special Collections Librar- ter served. This project, under the ian at the University of Richmond. PAGE 36 VIRGINIA LIBRARIES JULY–SEPTEMBER, 2005

ton, North Carolina. Anyone who The idea behind the use of fax up. There was an early recognition knows Robison will know instantly technology for interlibrary loan that the resources would be shared that part of his success lies in his really came out of a conference pre- and linked among the libraries effervescent personality and won- sentation in California that some using this new digital technology derful sense of humor — still very members of the JMU library staff network. But there would be some much in evidence when he spoke had attended. The JMU librarians loss of control, such as no more this spring about the early begin- came back excited about the possi- centralized computing. The poten- nings of VIVA and other library bility for Virginia. And among the tial of the new Internet technology matters from a career that spanned California network of academic li- was great, but the performance more than thirty-seven years in braries, the fax program had been was often erratic and undepend- academic libraries. a real success. The program had able. In the 1990s, there was a lot proven to be relatively inexpensive of downtime with the network in Why did JMU and other Vir- and easy to implement; it was a the beginning, lots of browser and VL ginia academic libraries want cost-effective way to share library protocol issues and challenges; and or need a consortium network like resources. But Virginia had no state there was no state standard for a VIVA in the 1990s? academic network of libraries on library system. The national Z39.50 Resource sharing! I think library system protocol standard DR that was the biggest need did not always work as it was sup- in the state at the time. Whether “The large, central posed to with the myriad of library you worked in a large state uni- systems in Virginia’s colleges and versity, college, or community staffing models universities. college, you could see that library resources weren’t keeping pace would not fly with The California fax program with the needs of the institution’s the state legislature’s VL that you first used so suc- users. The State Council for Higher cessfully came out of that state’s Education’s proposed formula for funding charge.” networking endeavors. What kind funding libraries in higher educa- of organizational models did the tion never came close to the one early planners envision for a state hundred percent level intended. which to build a formal program. academic consortium? A Califor- Deficits in the Virginia state bud- The semi-autonomous nature of nia or OhioNet model? gets had led to drastic state budget Virginia higher education would Not really. We all knew that cuts in the early 1990s, especially be a challenge. Still, always the op- DR whatever consortium might in higher education, and academic timist, Dennis and his staff created be developed, it would have to libraries were especially hit hard. an initial proposal for interlibrary be uniquely Virginian. The semi- Yet the demands for new programs loan cooperation and presented it autonomous nature of the state’s and degrees in the state’s colleges to Paul Gherman and his staff at colleges and universities were and universities continued to VT and Ray Franz and his staff at a major factor in the way VIVA grow. The state’s academic librar- the UVA libraries. would be governed. The large, ies were already underfunded, and central staffing models would they were forced to make substan- What was the main obstacle not fly with the state legislature’s tial cuts, especially in their journal VL facing the academic libraries funding charge. Funds for shared collections. It was clear to me that in the formation of VIVA? library resource collections were JMU needed to cooperate more There were actually many the central part in the legislature’s and possibly enhance its limited DR issues concerning the estab- funding support for the project. A resources through some form of lishment of VIVA. In the begin- decentralized organization with collective with the state’s other ning, each institution had to give each institution contributing to academic libraries. The budget cli- up something and be willing to VIVA’s operation seemed the most mate in the state was right for this contribute to the collective group. likely structure. kind of cooperation and so was the Remember, VIVA began about the I believe that a great deal of the developing technology for sharing time that the Internet and the credit for VIVA’s organizational resources. World Wide Web were starting structure should go to Charlene JULY–SEPTEMBER, 2005 VIRGINIA LIBRARIES PAGE 37

Hurt from George Mason Univer- Staff volunteered to serve on the gram through the Office of Man- sity. Charlene’s previous experi- various committees and task forc- agement Studies at the Council on ence with the Washington, D.C., es, and got involved in creating Library Resources had reinforced area academic consortium was training workshops and continu- my belief in a participatory and invaluable early on in the gover- ing education programs, sharing empowering management style nance discussions. A lot of credit expertise, and handling vendor re- with library staff, faculty, and stu- also goes to Nancy Marshall from lations and contract negotiations. I dents. The first thing I did when I William and Mary, Carol Allen saw our staff taking ownership of went to JMU was organize meetings from UVA, John Duke from VCU, the new consortium with an en- with every department on campus and Paul Gherman from VT, who thusiasm that spread to all levels of to discuss their library needs and worked very hard with their univer- the library. programs. This had never hap- sity administrations to garner local pened before with the faculty and support and commitment. The Do you consider your work in the library there. I believed that implementation of a new library VL helping to establish VIVA as the librarian and his staff needed system helped to bring the state’s your greatest contribution to the to be proactive and out among the community colleges on board and profession? students and faculty, not hidden gain additional support from the away in an office somewhere. legislature for funding. John Jaffe During the early 1960s when I from Sweet Briar was very instru- “I tried to spend some was at the University of South Flor- mental in getting the independent ida, I was part of a group of “young schools included in the discussions of my time … at Turks” within the library profes- and organizational structure, even sion, including Tom Kirk and Carla with no state funding support for the reference desk Stoffle, among others, who worked them at that time. To begin with, working directly with nationally to organize the library they would have to pay their own instruction forum and standards way for resources. We now had a students and faculty.” within ALA/ACRL. We believed “win, win machine” with support strongly that librarians needed to for VIVA coming from all corners be actively involved in teaching of the academic community. I am certainly proud that I students how to use the library. It was amazing how things DR was able to help get the ball Everywhere I worked during my seemed to come together once the rolling to establish VIVA. But after career, I tried to spend some of my discussions began. Charlene Hurt thirty-seven years as a librarian, time on a regular basis at the ref- convinced her administration to there are also other things that I erence desk working directly with provide some salary support for am proud of and helped to start. students and faculty. Kathy Perry from GMU to serve I was fortunate that the majority In retirement, I don’t really miss as part-time VIVA director. UVA of my career was spent in under- all of the administrative head- and VT provided their expertise graduate institutions where I could aches and hassles, but I do miss with the newly developing digital practice my librarianship firsthand that direct contact with students technology for training, database and interact closely with students and faculty and the impact I could acquisition, and implementation. and faculty. Certainly the ten years see that the library was having on JMU became the central procure- I spent as library director at the their education and learning. VL ment agent for VIVA. A series of University of Richmond, where we committees were established with set up the library instruction and a rotating VIVA Steering Com- department liaison teams and pro- mittee made up of all the various grams that worked so successfully, types of institutions to oversee the were very important to me. I car- operations. ried these ideas with me to JMU, The other “great idea from where they were implemented and VIVA” was the involvement of lots expanded exponentially with the of librarians and staff in so much institution’s programs. My earlier of the work of the consortium. participation in the leadership pro- Section 3: VLA Awards Virginia Library Association Awards

by Alyssa Altshuler

George Mason Award 1990 Robert B. Ball Delegate, Virginia General The Virginia Library Association sponsors one associa- Assembly tion-wide award, the George Mason Award. This award 1991 Lawrence Reed Virginia Educational is presented to an individual librarian; to a library; to O’Brien Sr. Vendors Association an individual or organization distinguished for advo- 1993 Ida Patton Library of Virginia cacy of libraries and/or information access; or to an institution, business, or academic program whose activity 1994 Theresa Byrd J. Sergeant Reynolds Community College has contributed to the development, growth, and extension of library and information services in the local 1995 Linda L. Krantz Rockbridge Regional Library community, the state, or the nation. An award is not necessarily given every year. 1996 Marjorie Morgan Lynchburg College Freeman 1997 Dennis E. Robison James Madison University George Mason Award 1998 Chryssi Maria Library of Virginia Year Name Library or Institution Dessypris 1986 A. L. Philpott Delegate, Virginia General 1999 Phillip West Cancer Williamsburg Regional Assembly Resource Center Library 1987 C. E. Charitable C. E. Charitable Trust 2000 Nelson Worley Library of Virginia Trust 2002 Hon. John H. Senator, Virginia General Chichester Assembly 2003 Linda Hahne Virginia Library Association 2004 Ann Friedman Arlington County Public Library

George Mason Award winners Linda Hahne, 2003, and Dennis Robison, 1997. JULY–SEPTEMBER, 2005 VIRGINIA LIBRARIES PAGE 39

Trustee Library Award Friends of the Library Award The Trustee Library Award is presented in recognition of The Friends of the Library Award is presented annually distinguished service to libraries or a library in Virginia. to one or more Friends groups in recognition of distin- The trustee honored may have served on the local, state, guished service to libraries or a library in Virginia. An regional, or national level, or at a combination of levels. award is not necessarily given every year. An award is not necessarily given every year. Friends of the Library Award

Trustee Library Award Year Friends Year Name Library or Institution 1988 Handley Regional Library

1981 Mary R. Jamieson Rappahannock County 1989 Jefferson-Madison Regional Library Library Richmond Public Library Jack Robertson Virginia Beach Public Library 1990 George Mason Regional Library 1988 Virginia Kelly Pulaski County Library Salem Public Library Sara V. Kyle Carroll County Regional Virginia Beach Public Library Library Boatwright Library at the University of Richmond 1990 Jean Mehler Waynesboro Public Library 1991 Waynesboro Public Library Joyce Phillips Prince William Public Library Central Rappahannock Regional Library James McEckron Augusta County Library 1992 Buckingham County Library 1991 Cynthia Chesapeake Public Library Ghaemmaghami Charlotte County Library Valerie Mayo Central Rappahannock John McMahon of the Newport News Public Regional Library Library Eleanor Smith Loudoun County Public West Point Branch, Pamunkey Regional Library, Library and the West Point Literary Club Lurlene Loudoun County Public 1993 Chesterfield County Public Library Willoughby Library Fairfax City Regional Library 1993 Betty Cullota Rockbridge Regional Library George Mason Regional Library Andrew State Library Board Reston Regional Library McCutcheon Jr. 1994 Chesterfield County Public Library 1994 Donald C. Kiscaden Staunton Public Library Williamsburg Regional Library 1996 R. Frank Tobin Central Rappahannock Regional Library 1995 Lynchburg Public Library 1997 Stephen E. Story Norfolk Public Library Richmond Public Library 1998 Phylis A. Salak Fairfax County Public Library 1997 Victoria Public Library of Southside Regional Library 1999 Linda Conti-White Loudoun County Public Library 1998 Chesterfield County Public Library 2000 George M. Van Central Rappahannock 1999 Virginia Beach Public Library Sant Regional Library 2000 George Mason Regional Library 2001 Marjorie Cooper Bedford Public Library 2001 Newport News Public Library 2003 Betty Jane Simpson Blue Ridge Regional Library 2002 Washington County Public Library 2004 Richard “Dick” M. Staunton Public Library 2003 Goochland Branch of the Pamunkey Regional Hamrick Jr. Library PAGE 40 VIRGINIA LIBRARIES JULY–SEPTEMBER, 2005

Honorary Life Members 1984 H. Gordon Bechanan Virginia Polytechnic Insti- tute and State University Eligibility for an honorary life membership is confined Mary A. Marshall Delegate, Virginia General to trustees or former trustees, Friends of Virginia librar- Assembly ies, and Virginia librarians and paraprofessionals who Hannah McLay Virginia State Library have held membership and who have made outstand- Consultant ing contributions to Virginia librarianship. Mary Elizabeth City of Richmond Public Names and information on nominees are approved Mather Schools by the VLA Council and appear on the annual ballot John H. Robertson Virginia Beach Public Library to be voted on by the membership. Members may vote on more than one nominee, and more than one may Howard M. Smith Richmond Public Library be elected. A majority of fifty percent plus one of those 1985 Maurice D. Leach Jr. Washington and Lee voting determines life membership. Acceptance of University nominees by the membership bestows on the honorary J. William Doswell VLA Lobbyist life member full benefits of membership without dues. M. Patricia Carey Fairfax County Public Library An award is not necessarily given every year. Mary Lynch Bedford Public Library Molyneux Richard M. Bagley Delegate, Virginia General Honorary Life Members Assembly Year Name Library or Institution Sarah W. Crews Library of Virginia 1980 Elizabeth Cooper Chesterfield County Public Verdelle V. Bradley Virginia Union University Library 1990 Bertha W. Edwards Portsmouth Community Elizabeth A. Scott Dabney S. Lancaster Library Community College Jane Lego Norfolk Public Library Lucille Dobson Snow Roanoke College, Hollins College 1991 Gladys Caywood Newport News Public Schools 1981 Jane B. Nida Arlington County Public Florence Chandler Library Theda Gibson Lonesome Pine Regional Ida Mae Leatherman Richmond Public Library Library Raymond E. Jefferson-Madison Regional Martha LeStourgeon Longwood College Williams Library Sarah Wallace 1982 Katherine M. Smith Library of Virginia 1992 Beverly Bagan City of Richmond Public Frank C. Shirk Virginia Polytechnic Insti- Schools tute and State University Elizabeth Browning Henrico County Public Henry James Jr. Sweet Briar College Schools 1983 Robert Ball Delegate, Virginia General Ray W. Frantz University of Virginia Assembly Jeanne G. Plitt Alexandria Library Mary Ester Grubb Loudoun County Public William C. Pollard Mary Baldwin College Library Marjorie Tallichet Alexandria Library Sterling Bagby Halifax County South Betty Wooldridge Blue Ridge Regional Library Boston Regional Library 1994 Catherine Vaughan Alice Bauer University of Virginia 1995 Jim Gaines Virginia Military Institute Miller Boord Randolph Macon Woman’s College 1996 Beth Askew Nelson County Public Library Margaret Sue City of Richmond Public Dale W. Brown Arlington County Schools Carpenter Schools Dean Burgess Portsmouth Public Library Marjorie Dennin Northern Virginia 1998 Dennis E. Robison James Madison University Community College 1999 Ruth J. Turner Fairfax County Public Library Mary Frances Propst Southside Regional Library Rebecca Laine Longwood College Crimora Waite Culpeper Town and County Library 2001 Terry Sumey Lynchburg College Bess P. Walford Philip Morris 2002 Carolyn Tate University of Richmond JULY–SEPTEMBER, 2005 VIRGINIA LIBRARIES PAGE 41

Jefferson Cup Award 1989 Virginia Hamilton Anthony Burns: The Defeat and Triumph of a Fugitive The Jefferson Cup Award honors a distinguished work Slave of American biography, historical fiction, or history for 1990 Carolyn Reeder Shades of Gray young people. The Youth Services Forum of the Virgin- 1991 Russell Freedman Franklin Delano Roosevelt ia Library Association has presented this award annually since the 1982 publishing year. Through the award, 1992 Russell Freedman The Wright Brothers: How They Invented the Airplane the Youth Services Forum seeks to promote reading about America’s past; to encourage quality writing of 1993 Jerry Stanley Children of the Dust Bowl: The True Story of the School United States history, biography, and historical fiction at Weedpatch Camp for young people; and to recognize authors in these disciplines. 1994 Jim Murphy Across America on an Emigrant Train 1995 Patricia Polacco Pink and Say Jefferson Cup Award 1996 Jim Murphy The Great Fire Year Author Title 1997 Jean Thesman The Ornament Tree 1983 Milton Meltzer The Jewish Americans: A 1998 Leon Walter Tillage Leon’s Story History in Their Own Words, 1650-1950 1999 Gary Paulsen Soldier’s Heart: Being the Story of the Enlistment 1984 Paula Spencer Who Speaks for Wolf: A and Due Service of the Boy Underwood Native American Learning Charley Goddard in the First Story as Told to Turtle Minnesota Volunteers Woman Singing by Her Father, Sharp-Eyed Hawk 2000 Katherine Paterson Preacher’s Boy 1985 Bette Bao Lord In the Year of the Boar and 2001 Jim Murphy Blizzard: The Storm That Jackie Robinson Changed America 1986 Patricia MacLachlan Sarah, Plain and Tall 2002 Elisa Carbone Storm Warriors 1987 Margaret Rostkowski After the Dancing Days 2003 Chris Crowe Mississippi Trial, 1955 1988 Russell Freedman Lincoln: A Photobiography 2004 Kristine L. Franklin Grape Thief VL PAGE 42 VIRGINIA LIBRARIES JULY–SEPTEMBER, 2005

VLA Scholarship Winners

by Sandra Shell, VLA Scholarship Committee Chair

he Virginia Library Associ- arship was added as part of the With much help from various ation established the VLA VLA Paraprofessional Forum. It people, I have compiled a list of Library School Scholarship was named in honor of Clara Stan- former recipients. My apologies Tin 1991 as a way to “encourage and ley in 2002. Each scholarship is in to anyone whose name may have enable qualified Virginia residents the amount of $2,000. been omitted. to enter and practice the profession of librarianship in the Common- Former recipients wealth.” VLA hoped that providing financial support to a deserving “Receiving the 1991 Jo Brown student enrolled in library school VLA Scholarship and 1992 Sydney Simpson would enhance a growing pool 1993 Stella Poole of qualified candidates for library earning an MLIS Ethel Hellman positions in Virginia. 1994 Marianne Ramsden In 1993, a second scholarship are two of my most 1995 Catherine Laine Cheely was created because of the large gratifying achievements.” Jean Johnston number of outstanding applicants 1996 Elizabeth Burns seeking aid. In 2000, a third schol- Mary Murphy

Carolyn Gardner, a 1999 scholarship winner. JULY–SEPTEMBER, 2005 VIRGINIA LIBRARIES PAGE 43

1997 Shelia Chimento of Collections, Associate Director, have promoted, the VLA Scholar- Sara Kay Brazelton Interim Director, Head of Reference ship ever since.” 1998 Anne Anderson Services, Coordinator of building Jay Lahlou projects, and am now Special Proj- Stella Poole — 1993 1999 Carolyn Adele Gardner ects Coordinator. I took a leave of Louise Taylor absence again in 1999–2000 and “I began working as a paraprofes- 2000 Claudia Covert (VLAPF) was an elementary school librarian sional with Jefferson-Madison Christian Anderson for a year. I have loved every library Regional Library in 1979. Over the Sandra Shell job I’ve had, and having an MLS years, I have spent time in Circula- 2001 Iris Taylor (VLAPF) has opened up a variety of oppor- tion, Children’s Services, Outreach, Merrill Chertok tunities for me. I have been able to and most recently as the Coordi- Zewdu Mantegbot learn about many aspects of library nator for the Monticello Avenue 2002 Ophelia Payne (VLAPF) work. This has kept the job inter- Community Information Network. Tammy Hines esting and stimulating throughout I participated in the University of 2003 Steve Litherland (VLAPF) my career. I will always be grateful North Carolina at Greensboro’s Sherie Orton to VLA for its encouragement.” distance education program and Charles Hillen earned an MLIS in 1995. The VLA 2004 Susan Larson (VLAPF) Scholarship provided much-needed Julie Short (in memory of financial assistance and enabled April Bohannan) “I feel much more me to complete my coursework Heather Blicher comfortable and secure in while continuing to work full-time at the library. Receiving the VLA In preparation for the centennial my profession by having Scholarship and earning an MLIS of VLA, after compiling the list of are two of my most gratifying former recipients, I emailed them the master’s degree.” achievements. I have been a mem- and asked, “How did the scholar- ber of VLA for over twenty years ship impact your life? Where has and am an avid supporter of the your career taken you?” The fol- annual Scholarship Fund Raffle.” lowing are the responses I received. Sydney Simpson — 1992 Marianne Ramsden — 1994 “I won the scholarship in 1992 Jo Brown — 1991 and I received my degree from the “I got my scholarship in 1994 and “I was the first recipient of the VLA University of Maryland, College graduated in 1995. I began the Scholarship. I received my MLS Park, in 1995. I haven’t budged studies in order to get a better feel- from Catholic University in 1992. from the public library that I have ing for my job as a branch manager. My husband and I had worked loved from the beginning — the In those days, branch managers did out a plan for him to take a sab- Central Rappahannock Regional not have to have a master’s degree, batical in the Washington, D.C., Library in Fredericksburg, where but I knew that demand would be a area so that I could work on an I have worked for the past sixteen certainty in a few years. I feel much MLS. We had two kids in college years. It was my local public library more comfortable and secure in and were feeling that this deci- when I was in college and I have my profession by having the mas- sion was financially shaky. As we been devoted ever since. I have two ter’s degree. Had I not received the were moving into our apartment roles here. I run the Circulation scholarship, it would have been far in the D.C. area, the phone rang Department at the Headquarters more difficult to obtain the degree (we did not know that our phone Branch, and I supervise three of as quickly as I did. Another facet of service was connected, so this was our rural branches in Westmore- being honored by the scholarship surprising!). It was Susan McCar- land County. The VLA Scholarship committee was that I began serv- thy telling me that I was to receive got me out of a tight spot, indeed. I ing on the committee in 1997 and the scholarship. This gave me such remember that I had even gathered became its chair a year later and a boost. I knew everything would the paperwork together to take a served for several terms. It was a work out and we wouldn’t end up leave of absence from school for very rewarding position, since giv- in the poor house. I came back to at least one semester, until I could ing away money is a very pleasant my job as Children’s Coordinator scrape together the tuition costs. I task!” in 1992. Since then, I have been was elated to be able to continue, Head of Technical Services, Head and I have been grateful to, and PAGE 44 VIRGINIA LIBRARIES JULY–SEPTEMBER, 2005

the branch manager at the Col- cially for me to continue working Carolyn Adele Gardner — 1999 linsville Public Library since then. in a library environment while “I was lucky enough to receive I have also continued to be active taking classes without the added a VLA scholarship in 1999 that in my community in various civic expense of loans to repay later; and helped me get started in the dis- organizations and serve on the it instilled in me a desire to help tance education program at Florida local community college board. I others who might need such assis- State University. This was a major am active in the VLA organization, tance. I will never forget the VLA step for me — I was working full- and serve as chair of the Scholar- Scholarship and what an honor it time for very little money (though ship Committee. I also am a mem- was to be one of the recipients in I loved that museum library and ber of PLA.” 2000. Regardless of where I hang wanted to be able to stay in spe- my professional hat and what pro- cial collections), and I was already fessional feats I am able to accom- Christina Anderson — 2000 struggling under a mountain of plish, I will always remember that debt from my master’s in English. “After receiving the VLA Scholar- Virginia is where it all began — and Without VLA’s financial support ship in 2000, I moved to Tennes- I am proud of that fact.” and vote of confidence, I might see, but continued to work at the not have been able to begin my Merrill Chertok — 2001 studies. I graduated in 2003, and today, I’m a cataloger at Hampton “I won the VLA Scholarship in Public Library and co-editor of Vir- “I have been working in 2001. I earned my degree almost ginia Libraries. One of the greatest the Tennessee Library entirely online via distance edu- things about VLA is the feeling of cation through the University of community, the sense of support, Association to create a Wisconsin at Milwaukee and grad- and the willingness of members to uated in 2002. Receipt of the VLA share their knowledge to help one Scholarship Program.” scholarship enabled me to continue another. I’m proud to be part of my studies with lessened financial this organization.” stress and complete my degree Bristol Public Library, in both the in a reasonable amount of time. I location on the Virginia side of was also among the first group of Sandra Shell — 2000 the state line, and in the location students to attain an MLS entirely “I received the VLA Scholarship on the Tennessee side. I received through distance education, and in 2000. It came as a wonderful my master’s degree via the online I’m proud to be a mentor for others surprise. I had two sons in college distance education option through who have chosen this route, both at the time and my husband was the University of Tennessee. Even at UWM and elsewhere. I work as living and working out of state though I no longer live in Virginia, the Law Library Director for the due to his job transfer. The added I’ve kept up my membership and Alexandria Law Library, located in expense of another college degree have taken the seeds of giving that the city courthouse of Alexandria, did not seem feasible. However, I were so graciously bestowed upon and have worked in that position loved my job at the library. When I me when I began my professional since 1996.” was offered the position of Branch career in Virginia and have planted Manager with the provision that I those seeds here in Tennessee to Zewdu Manteqbot — 2001 obtain my MLS, I quickly decided hopefully help others who might that is what I would do. I obtained not be able to afford graduate “I won the scholarship in 2001 my degree from Florida State Uni- school without such assistance. I while attending my studies at the versity through its online long- have been working in the Tennes- Catholic University of America. I distance program. It was a difficult see Library Association to create graduated in May 2003 and I am time of much study, work, and a Scholarship Program. The VLA now working at the Arlington Pub- effort, but I completed my degree Scholarship took me someplace I lic Library. To win the scholarship in 2001. I learned so much dur- never dreamed I would go: it helped at a time when I was working full- ing those studies. The scholarship me to attain an educational feat time and going to school was very was indeed a factor in opening that I had only dreamed of before; encouraging. This is a program many doors for me. I have been it helped to make it possible finan- where we help each other for our JULY–SEPTEMBER, 2005 VIRGINIA LIBRARIES PAGE 45 professional development and it my decision to become a librarian. pated graduation date of spring is something that should be sup- I am grateful to VLA for the sup- 2007. I remain employed at Lone- ported by all of us.” port that they gave to me.” some Pine Regional Library in the position of Library Coordinator. The coursework at FSU has proven Ophelia Payne — 2002 Charles Hillen — 2003 to be very stimulating, and the “I won my scholarship in 2002, “I won the VLA Scholarship in knowledge I am gaining is invalu- which was the first year of the 2003. I started my LIS degree able. Words cannot express my Clara P. Stanley VLAPF Scholarship. through distance education at the deepest appreciation to members I received my master’s degree from University of Tennessee in the fall of the Scholarship Committee for Florida State University School of semester of 2002 while working their belief in my abilities that led Information Studies. I am currently as the Lead Cataloger at the Old to this wondrous opportunity.” employed with J. Sargeant Reyn- Dominion University Library. I olds Community College as Coor- began working in a librarian’s posi- Heather Blicher — 2004 dinator of the Learning Resources tion as the Head of Acquisitions at Center – Western Campus, and “I am working toward a Master Head of Media Processing. This of Science in Information Stud- scholarship helped me continue ies from Florida State University my educational goals of being a “…it was a psychological through the Online Distance Pro- professional librarian and made a boost that reinforced gram. I continue to work full-time big difference in my life because I at Virginia Beach Central Library am doing something I love.” my decision to become as an Information Specialist II. For me, receiving the VLA Scholarship a librarian….” has been the highlight of my year Tammy Hines — 2002 by not only allowing me to take “The VLA Scholarship in 2002 more classes toward my degree, allowed me to pursue my educa- the Getty Research Institute in Los but also making me feel as if the tion with some financial breathing Angeles in August 2004. I appreci- work that I do is appreciated by the room. The scholarship paid the ated the scholarship so much. It profession. I consider it an honor majority of my tuition for a semes- made me feel very supported and to have been chosen to receive this ter, which allowed me to take off encouraged that VLA was recog- scholarship and I aim to do it jus- from work to complete major proj- nizing the fact that the degree is tice by completing my degree and ects during the academic crunch very important and that my work encouraging others in the profes- time. I completed my MLS from experiences and aspirations were sion to pursue their studies. Thank Florida State University on May 1, valued. I feel that VLA is wonder- you for believing in me.” 2004. I am currently serving as the ful for providing this scholarship Interim Reader Services Librarian opportunity in light of the fact The recipients for 2005 are: at Longwood University.” that there are no MLIS, MLS, or Rachel Kirkland — VLAPF MIS degrees offered in Virginia. I Heather Blicher can definitely report that the edu- Maria Alliende George Oberle III — 2002 cation has helped me very much in “I am currently the Multi-Media my work as a librarian.” It has been rewarding to hear from and History Liaison Librarian at these librarians and to see the vari- George Mason University. This ety of paths taken, many as a result Julie Short — 2004 year I was nominated and was cho- of the VLA Scholarship. One theme sen as one of Library Journal’s Mov- “As the 2004 recipient of the VLA throughout has been appreciation ers and Shakers. I finished the MLS scholarship given in memory of and gratitude for the scholarship. program at the University of Mary- April Bohannan, I am currently I sincerely hope that VLA will be land in December 2003. The VLA enrolled at Florida State University. able financially to continue this Scholarship was a significant aid to By the end of my second semester, program for the next one hundred me financially. In addition, it was a I will have completed twelve hours years! VL psychological boost that reinforced toward the degree with an antici- Section 4: VLA Publications Publications of the Virginia Library Association

by Alyssa Altshuler

irginia Libraries (1928–1932) was issued quar- 1948 Virginia Library Bulletin Ernestine Grafton terly by the Virginia State Library, Extension 1949 Virginia Library Bulletin Ernestine Grafton Division. There are no VLA publications Vbetween 1933 and 1937. 1950 Virginia Library Bulletin Ernestine Grafton 1951 Virginia Library Bulletin Ernestine Grafton Year Title Editor 1952 Virginia Library Bulletin Ernestine Grafton 1928 Virginia Libraries Leslie W. Stevens 1953 Virginia Library Bulletin Ernestine Grafton 1929 Virginia Libraries Leslie W. Stevens 1930 Virginia Libraries Leslie W. Stevens Virginia Librarian (1954–1973) was published quarterly as 1931 Virginia Libraries Leslie W. Stevens the “official organ of the Virginia Library Association.” 1932 Virginia Libraries Leslie W. Stevens Year Title Editor(s) 1954 Virginia Librarian Carrol H. Quenzel News Letter (1938–42) was published annually and sponsored by the Junior Members Round Table, Vir- 1955 Virginia Librarian Carrol H. Quenzel ginia Library Association. 1956 Virginia Librarian Carrol H. Quenzel 1957 Virginia Librarian Carrol H. Quenzel/ Year Title Editor(s) N. Harvey Deal (in April) 1938 News Letter Junior Members Roundtable 1958 Virginia Librarian N. Harvey Deal 1939 News Letter Junior Members Roundtable 1959 Virginia Librarian N. Harvey Deal 1940 News Letter Elise B. Hardy 1960 Virginia Librarian N. Harvey Deal/Joseph B. Runey (in April) 1941 News Letter Agnes Gregory 1961 Virginia Librarian Joseph B. Runey 1942 News Letter Dorothy Watson/ Mary Minichan 1962 Virginia Librarian Joseph B. Runey 1963 Virginia Librarian Joseph B. Runey/Forrest C. Palmer (in June) Virginia Library Bulletin (1943–1953) was “issued occa- 1964 Virginia Librarian Forrest C. Palmer sionally in the interest of Virginia libraries.” (The 1965 Virginia Librarian Forrest C. Palmer “occasional” publication schedule was probably due to 1966 Virginia Librarian Orland Wages WWII and its aftermath.) 1967 Virginia Librarian Orland Wages

Year Title Editor(s) 1968 Virginia Librarian Orland Wages 1943 Virginia Library Bulletin William Arthur 1969 Virginia Librarian Richard K. Burns Moon 1970 Virginia Librarian Richard K. Burns/Dean 1944 Virginia Library Bulletin William Arthur Burgess (spring) Moon 1971 Virginia Librarian Dean Burgess 1945 Virginia Library Bulletin Ernestine Grafton 1972 Virginia Librarian Dean Burgess 1946 Virginia Library Bulletin Ernestine Grafton 1973 Virginia Librarian Dean Burgess 1947 Virginia Library Bulletin Ernestine Grafton JULY–SEPTEMBER, 2005 VIRGINIA LIBRARIES PAGE 47

Virginia Librarian Newsletter (1974–1986) was published six 2002 Virginia Libraries Co-editors: Barbara Selby/ times per year, adding the word “Newsletter” to its title. Earlene Viano 2003 Virginia Libraries Co-editors: Barbara Selby/ Year Title Editor(s) Earlene Viano 1974 Virginia Librarian Newsletter Henry James Jr. 2004 Virginia Libraries Co-editors: Cy Dillon/ C. A. Gardner 1975 Virginia Librarian Newsletter Henry James Jr. 2005 Virginia Libraries Co-editors: Cy Dillon/ 1976 Virginia Librarian Newsletter Henry James Jr./ C. A. Gardner Marilyn Norstedt (spring) 1977 Virginia Librarian Newsletter Marilyn Norstedt The first issue of the VLA Newsletter was published in 1978 Virginia Librarian Newsletter Mary C. Grafton February 1987 and stated the following on its cover: 1979 Virginia Librarian Newsletter Mary C. Grafton This is the first issue of a new monthly VLA pub- 1980 Virginia Librarian Newsletter Mary C. Grafton lication designed to provide the membership 1981 Virginia Librarian Newsletter Mary C. Grafton of VLA with timely, up-to-date information of 1982 Virginia Librarian Newsletter Mary C. Grafton interest to all librarians throughout the state. We plan to include a monthly calendar, personnel 1983 Virginia Librarian Newsletter Mary C. Grafton changes, membership information, reports of per- 1984 Virginia Librarian Newsletter Alan Zoellner tinent meetings around the state, and notices of 1985 Virginia Librarian Newsletter Alan Zoellner region, forum, and section activities. 1986 Virginia Librarian Newsletter Alan Zoellner VLA Newsletter was published ten times yearly and continues to be published ten times yearly today.

Virginia Librarian (1987–1995) was published quarterly. Year Title Editor(s) 1987 VLA Newsletter Sandra Heinemann Year Title Editor(s) 1987 Virginia Librarian Izabela M. Cieszynski 1988 VLA Newsletter Sandra Heinemann 1988 Virginia Librarian Izabela M. Cieszynski 1989 VLA Newsletter Sandra Heinemann 1989 Virginia Librarian Jennilou Grotevant 1990 VLA Newsletter Barbara Smith 1990 Virginia Librarian Jennilou Grotevant 1991 VLA Newsletter Barbara Smith/ Barbara Selby 1991 Virginia Librarian Jennilou Grotevant 1992 VLA Newsletter Rebecca Laine 1992 Virginia Librarian Patsy Hansel 1993 VLA Newsletter Rebecca Laine 1993 Virginia Librarian Co-editors: Lucretia McCulley/Dan Ream 1994 VLA Newsletter Sue Trask 1994 Virginia Librarian Co-editors: Lucretia 1995 VLA Newsletter Sue Trask McCulley/Dan Ream 1996 VLA Newsletter Sue Trask 1995 Virginia Librarian Co-editors: Lucretia 1997 VLA Newsletter Sue Trask McCulley/Dan Ream 1998 VLA Newsletter Mary Hansbrough 1999 VLA Newsletter Mary Hansbrough Virginia Libraries (1996–present) was published quar- 2000 VLA Newsletter Mary Hansbrough terly and continues to be published quarterly today. 2001 VLA Newsletter Helen Q. Sherman 2002 VLA Newsletter Helen Q. Sherman Year Title Editor(s) 2003 VLA Newsletter Audrey M. Kelly 1996 Virginia Libraries Cy Dillon 2004 VLA Newsletter Audrey M. Kelly/ 1997 Virginia Libraries Cy Dillon Kevin Tapp 1998 Virginia Libraries Cy Dillon 2005 VLA Newsletter Kevin Tapp 1999 Virginia Libraries Cy Dillon VL 2000 Virginia Libraries Cy Dillon/Andrea Kross (in spring) 2001 Virginia Libraries Andrea Kross PAGE 48 VIRGINIA LIBRARIES JULY–SEPTEMBER, 2005

A Particular Perspective: Our Editors Speak

by Cy Dillon and C. A. Gardner

n the past thirty-five years, time by the Ruszicka Bindery fifteen VLA members have in North Carolina, but, as served as editor or coedi- printing became more expen- Itor of the association’s primary sive, they were having second publication, titled, as nearly as thoughts about their spon- we can determine, Virginia Librar sorship. I made trips to keep ies, News Letter, Virginia Library them on board for as long Bulletin, Virginia Librarian, Vir- as I could, but finally they ginia Librarian Newslet- withdrew their support com- ter, Virginia Librarian pletely from all state journals. a second time, and, Costs seemed so high that the to close the circle, Vir- Executive Board (there was ginia Libraries. In spite of no VLA Council then) wanted the title’s sorry reputation to convert the journal into a among serials catalogers, the single-sheet newsletter, but I journal has prospered during convinced them to simply re- this time, reflecting the vital- duce it somewhat and add the ity, diversity, and resilience of Dean Burgess word ‘Newsletter’ to the title. the Commonwealth’s library com- Happily, that did not last all that munity. The current editors have long, and the old Virginia Librarian asked all the previous editors we “He would call me in title reemerged in the 1980s. have been able to contact to join us “VLA dues apparently needed to in sharing their editorial experienc- the middle of the night be increased. The real substance of es with our readers in this centenni- the debate, however, was whether al issue. Some of us have been brief; (sometimes a little in his VLA could afford to continue the some have, with perfectly good jus- cups) to admonish me journal as a scholarly piece with tification, rambled. We hope that, substantive articles, reviews, and in the variety of voices presented that the journal should editorials indexed in Library Lit- here, our audience will find valu- erature, rather than just news snip- able insights into the nature and be more radical.” pets, new hires, and obituaries for history of both the magazine and internal consumption. We won our sponsoring association. that one. We begin with the narrative of who reluctantly turned the jour- “Looking back at the old issues, Dean Burgess, a retired public librar- nal over to me in 1970. He trusted I see we had a large staff, and we ian, VLA Past President, and author. me only because I was a hanger-on were a happy brother- and sister- in what would become the Junior hood. I wish there was room to Members Roundtable. He would name them all, but they all went Dean Burgess, Editor, Virginia call me in the middle of the night on to prominence in the associa- Librarian, 1970–73 (sometimes a little in his cups) tion later, on their own. Some of “My tenure at Virginia Librarian was to admonish me that the journal the issues that got the blood boil- in a turbulent time. My predeces- should be more radical. ing were the introduction of ‘The sor was Dick Burns, a firebrand of “The production of the journal Library Bill of Rights’ and the fight the national revolts of the 1960s, was completely paid for at that against censorship during the back- JULY–SEPTEMBER, 2005 VIRGINIA LIBRARIES PAGE 49 lash of the 1970s. What constitutes the house libraries at Yale. He was and dues hike of the mid-70s. And pornography was the question in honored with a VLA Life Member- in 1978 the association was estab- the courts in Virginia and at the ship in 1982. lishing policies and programs for library shelves. ‘Crazy Fred’ Glazer Marilyn Norstedt, who took future generations: it was Virginia put VLA’s Library Week on the na- over from James, is also deceased. Library Jobline’s first year of opera- tional stage, but made a profit in She was a nationally known serials tion, VLA Council was pursuing the process (tut, tut). We aired the cataloger at Virginia Tech, serving 501c(3) tax status for the asso- Ellis Hodgins firing and the ques- as an exchange librarian in both ciation, and the whole statewide tion of ‘intellectual freedom’ for Albania and New Zealand. Norstedt library community was charged librarians. We take our activism for was quite active in the American with anticipation of the Virginia granted now, but then we still de- Library Association’s Association Governor’s Conference on Library bated whether library associations for Library Collections and Techni- and Information Services set for and librarians should be proactive cal Services, and was recognized by March 1979 in preparation for the on social issues. Federal aid to pub- the ALA for her “contributions to national White House conference lic libraries was introduced in the the profession of librarianship and in September 1979. early 1960s. By the 1970s, it was her service to the Association.” “Fred Heath came to the VLA a major budget supplement, and Mary C. Grafton became editor presidency in the fall of 1978, and state aid was negligible. As federal in 1978. As you can see from the it was under the leadership of his aid began to decline, however, state detail and scope of her comments, council that VLA cosponsored the aid had to be invigorated to replace Grafton is an accomplished writer Governor’s Conference on Library it. Automation was first being in- with a superb memory. She cur- and Information Services. Think- troduced. It is hard to imagine it rently writes for a Richmond con- ing back on this event gives me was a matter of controversy, but sulting firm. pause as I consider which confer- it was, and there were haves and ence resolutions have become real- have-nots. Librarian licensing was ity and which have not. Funding of Mary C. Grafton, Editor, Virginia introduced in the late 1940s, but library services was a central issue, Librarian Newsletter, 1978–83 was still a matter of debate in all with delegates supporting full kinds of libraries (we had no li- “At the invitation of then-VLA funding of the state-aid formula by brary school, after all). Standards president Nolan Yelich, I agreed the General Assembly and the ap- for service were also being invigo- to become editor of the Virginia propriation of library construction rated, and not everyone loved that Librarian in 1978. It was a job that funds from local, state, and federal idea (particularly school and public turned out to last six years. But sources. Yet they soundly rejected libraries). Academic librarians were having the good fortune to work the concept of charging fees to fighting for faculty status. Inter- with the association’s leaders dur- pay for library services. Other library loan versus protecting the ing some remarkable years was one recommendations and concerns big university collections was an of the more rewarding parts of my included: issue. Audiovisual materials were professional career as a librarian. • improved networking and inter- coming into their own (now some “As some of you may recall, 1978 library cooperation, uniform bib- of that looks like buggy whips). In was not altogether the best year for liographic standards, and the use this ‘right to work’ state, the form- America. Jimmy Carter was presid- of automated systems ing of ‘staff associations’ got us ing over a nation suffering from • preservation of public records going as well. It was a fun time to a severely slumping economy, and private papers be editor, and I too laid down the Californians were busy approving • quality of library services (some pen reluctantly.” Proposition 13 (slashing property delegates favored a statewide taxes along with public services), public library card) • and some 900 American followers • expansion of service to unserved Dean’s successor, the aptly named of cult leader Jim Jones commit- regions of Virginia, as well as bet- Henry James Jr., was the library ted mass suicide in the jungles of ter library access for the handi- director at Sweet Briar. The late South America. It was the year of capped Dr. James was a Yale graduate with some dark movie classics, like Mid- • more library instruction pro- ties to the Kennedy family. In fact, night Express and The Deer Slayer. grams in schools he wrote his dissertation on Presi- “For VLA, however, the mood • involvement of libraries in solv- dent Kennedy. After retiring from was optimistic. VLA was emerging ing the nation’s literacy problem Sweet Briar, James returned to New a stronger organization as a result • continuing education and train- Haven, where he volunteered in of the notorious ‘reorganization’ ing programs for librarians, PAGE 50 VIRGINIA LIBRARIES JULY–SEPTEMBER, 2005

volunteers, and paraprofessional celebrated its seventy-fifth anni- minister’s censorship attempt (to library staff (including the estab- versary in style in 1980 at a glam- remove Bloodline, Lonely Lady, lishment of a graduate library orous Richmond gala. VLA played and Goodbye, Columbus from school in Virginia) a prominent role in encouraging the library shelves), a stand that • development of a means of re- and promoting educational oppor- gained national acclaim when it certification for practicing librar- tunities for both professionals and was covered by CBS correspon- ians. paraprofessionals. In the early ’80s, dent Ed Bradley and a film crew “Certainly some things have not Catholic University began to offer from 60 Minutes. changed since 1979. VLA still lob- graduate library science courses in “Also in the early ’80s, during bies for improved funding, and we Virginia, and the Virginia residents the terms of Gordon Bechanan still have no graduate library school became eligible to earn graduate and Dean Burgess, VLA put a tre- or statewide public library card. But degrees from ten out-of-state uni- mendous amount of time and en- libraries have made valiant strides versities at in-state rates. The Para- ergy into three particular issues: in serving the handicapped and professional Forum was formed to the creation of a union catalog supporting literacy programs. And provide continuing education and containing the resources of all the state’s Computer/Technology statewide networking for ‘non- types of Virginia libraries (many Standards of Learning now require professional’ library staff. Other of you may remember COM cata- public school students to be able to groups, like the Two-Year College logs and CAVALIR), the passage perform research using a variety of by the General Assembly of the electronic resources. Perhaps the Statewide Commission on Library most dramatic change has been networking, and the controversy technology’s impact on resource “Don slapped his palm surrounding the threatened end of sharing, preservation of historical on the table and said, state certification for professional documents, and access to library librarians. services. ‘That’s it — privacy will “Throughout these years, inter- “When I think of the Governor’s woven in all that the association Conference of 1979, I am reminded be the issue!’” did, was VLA’s proactive position of a comment made by then-State on the technological revolution of Librarian Donald Haynes. It was at libraries in Virginia. In 1979, when a meeting of the conference Reso- Forum, were established to serve computerized databases were new lutions Committee, when one of major constituencies with needs tools for reference librarians, VLA our members innocently asked not directly addressed previously. formed the Machine Assisted Refer- what we thought would be the “It was during this time that ence Service (MARS) Forum for the biggest issue for America’s librar- VLA found itself in serious fi- exchange of ideas and continuing ies in twenty-five years. We hap- nancial straits, but under Betty education opportunities for refer- pily tossed out predictions, and Wooldridge’s able leadership, VLA ence librarians in this burgeoning then someone said, ‘Privacy.’ Don met the crisis head on, opting to technology. In 1980, the VLA an- slapped his palm on the table and turn to an Alexandria association nual conference featured Jean-Paul said, ‘That’s it — privacy will be the management firm, Publishers Ser- Emard, of the Library of Congress, issue!’ He couldn’t have known vices, to help put VLA back on its speaking on the impact of new why or how it would come about, feet. An additional boost during communication technology on but he sure got it right. this time was the founding of the European libraries, with emphasis “To be sure, covering and par- political action committee, Friends on videotext; and Tom Harnish, ticipating in the Governor’s Con- of Virginia Libraries. of OCLC, presenting The Source, a ference was an exciting beginning “Several censorship cases kept new timesharing database service for me as editor. But looking back the VLA Intellectual Freedom available to libraries, homes, and at my entire term of service from Committee busy in the early ’80s, businesses. The 1981 conference 1978 through 1983, I am amazed especially two: attendants heard Vinod Chachra, at what other contributions the • The Virginia Beach Public Li- then-Assistant Provost for Plan- organization made in just six brary’s stand to defend its right ning at Virginia Tech, stress the years. It was during this time that to serve as distribution site for importance of strong local systems VLA first turned to a professional Our Own, a community newslet- and their place in larger network- advocate (J. William Doswell) to ter published for homosexuals ing systems, the importance of spearhead the association’s legisla- • The Washington County Public national standards in library tech- tive campaigns. The association Library’s stand against a local nology, and the need for an effec- JULY–SEPTEMBER, 2005 VIRGINIA LIBRARIES PAGE 51 tive statewide governance struc- time and renting a two-bedroom, ture for library networking. VLA two-story townhouse apartment members worked hard in 1982 on for $100 per month. I was living their initiative to establish a state- my answer. Deep Throat whis- wide library network, with Ricky pered, ‘Follow the money.’ I would Johnson, Dean Burgess, and Vinod follow the absence of money. So Chachra authoring white papers publication services were moved on network governance, network from Alexandria to Meherrin, Vir- funding, and network structure, ginia, and the publication dou- respectively. Microcomputers took bled in size. It was an early center stage at the pre-conference example of outsourcing of the 1982 annual conference, services to the third when speaker Richard Boss, of In- world. formation System Consultants in “My first issue as Maryland, surveyed the field of editor of Virginia Li- library-related software (includ- brarian Newsletter was ing CLSI, DataPhase, and MINI- Volume 30, Number 1, January– MARC) and encouraged library February 1984. In the issue were staff members to explore the use articles about how to establish of business-related technologies Alan Zoellner good rapport with legislators, how such as VisiCalc, Statistics 3.0, and to get everyone to agree on the WordStar. At the same conference, goals of library networking and re- a panel of Virginia librarians ex- now mostly unsung span of time. source sharing, how to achieve full plained how they were using mi- The good health of the association, funding for public libraries, and all crocomputers to access reference and of Virginia libraries today, is the legal details about a VLA-ACLU database services such as DIALOG in part the legacy of the vision and Freedom of Information lawsuit to create their own small databases determination those colleagues opposing restrictions on access to for library-specific information, brought to VLA more than twenty unclassified government informa- such as AV collections, and to years ago.” tion. Now, twenty-one years later, perform cataloging, acquisitions, it looks like Sisyphus is still rolling and circulation functions. Based • the rock up Library Hill. on that panel’s reports, it appears After Grafton’s substantial tenure, “As editor, I would attend all that Apple products dominated Alan Zoellner became editor. Alan, meetings of the VLA Council, Virginia libraries then, although on the staff at Swem Library of including the executive commit- IBM, Osbourne, and Kaypro com- William and Mary, is recognized as tee meetings the day before. I puters were also on the scene. VLA one of our best government docu- shared the rides to Charlottesville responded to new technology not ments librarians. with Christie Vernon and Har- only at conference programs, but riet Henderson, who each served also through the establishment of as vice-president/president-elect, Alan Zoellner, Editor, Virginia new forums such as the Technical president, and then past president. Librarian Newsletter, 1984–86 Services, Automation and Resourc- Christie and Harriet would debate es Forum (TSAR) and the Forum “While serving as a staff member the library issues of the day. Un- on Microcomputers. Today, every- of the Virginia Librarian Newsletter, able to get a word in, I would doze thing prior to the web seems like I remember being astonished by in the back seat. the Dark Ages, but at the time the what it cost to publish a slender “VLA officers at that time, I technology was awe-inspiring, and six- to eight-page issue. In those think, were chosen for their abil- VLA was at the forefront. days (late 1970s) the newsletter ity to endure endless meetings “I am painfully aware that look- was being edited in Ashland and and still party deep into the night. ing back on my years as editor is published in Alexandria. When People like Christie, Harriet, Lynn probably far more interesting to me I realized I would be named the (Scotty) Cochrane, Fran Freimarck, than to anyone else. Yet I hope that next editor-in-chief, my first chal- Tim Byrne, Dean Burgess, and this brief chronicle will impress on lenge was figuring out how to cut John Stewart were tough to keep the Virginia library community per-page costs to allow for expan- up with. After the Friday council how much the VLA councils and sion of coverage. I was working at meetings, on the long drive back members accomplished in this Hampden-Sydney College at the to Williamsburg/Newport News, PAGE 52 VIRGINIA LIBRARIES JULY–SEPTEMBER, 2005

Christie and Harriet would debate 1980s, the Library Board meetings somewhat overwhelmed by the the issues that arose during the were held in the State Librarian’s task, wondering how I was going meeting. I would sleep it off in the Office. The board members would to find contributors. But never fear, back seat. sit around a conference table and I, contributors are not hard to find. “One of the best aspects of as an observer, would sit in an easy The editorial board set themes for being editor of a library publica- chair across the room. The office the issues, and this was the key to tion is the opportunity to brush door would be closed and the sec- the success of the journal for the elbows with major writers. At the retary would knock before entering year. Selecting themes that would 1984 annual conference in Nor- with a desired document. I remem- be of interest to the readership folk, novelist Mary Lee Settle was ber thinking these were rather drove the editorial board discus- the featured speaker. During her shady conditions for government sions, and, I believe, helped in talk, she revealed that a character in the sunshine. directing our search — and once in her work-in-progress (Celebra- “My last issue as editor of Virginia a topic was selected, the search tion) had just acquired his name Librarian Newsletter was Volume 32, began immediately for possible because she overheard a librarian Number 6, November–December contributors. Topics covered dur- referring to the State Networking 1986. The bimonthly publication ing those years included coop- Users Advisory Council by its acro- was about to split, like a successful erative library projects, buildings, nym. She said, ‘There’s a man on stock or a sex-starved amoeba, into a staffing concerns, the Joint Legisla- the top floor of a fictional house tive Audit and Review Commission on Primrose Hill in London, and I report regarding the library collec- never knew his last name. I knew tion at the Alderman Library at the he was Mr. Abdul something. And “Now, twenty-one University of Virginia, automation, I just wrote it down. His name is years later, it looks like and rural libraries. Annual cover- Mr. Abdul Snuac.’ I guess some- age of the VLA conference was times art imitates life imperfectly. Sisyphus is still rolling automatically included. It is inter- I never got around to reading that esting to note that most of the top- book, so I just looked it up some the rock up Library Hill.” ics covered in those issues are still twenty years later. The only Abdul of high interest to the library com- I could find was a Mr. Abdul Selim. munity, though a few are no longer So I guess VLA can’t take credit for monthly newsletter and a quarterly the burning issues they once were. naming a character in a Mary Lee journal. In her final column, outgo- “Editorial board members in- Settle novel, or disclosing a trivial ing VLA President Harriet Hender- cluded Pat Anderson, Carolyn Bar- tidbit for a future biographer. son described the change as ‘an ef- kley, Sue Hegarty, Jennilou Grote- “Headline writing is always an fort to communicate more informa- vant, Dan Ream, Nancy Marshall, imperfect art. I wrote this one in tion more rapidly to our members.’ and Carolyn Powell. Ensuring that Volume 30, Number 6: ‘Panel As- In those pre-Internet days, getting the editorial board reflected the sesses User Fees at General Sessions information into the hands of the many kinds of libraries was criti- I and II.’ No wonder the attendance membership within two months cal to ensuring that the selected was so disappointing at those an- was considered rapid information themes covered the varied interests nual conference general sessions in dissemination. Mr. Jefferson would of the association membership. the 1980s! have been impressed.” One of the most important require- “As editor, I attended many ments for being on the board was meetings — VLA Council and Ex- • the ability to carefully proof the ecutive Committee, Library Advi- Izabela M. Cieszynski, who contin- articles. It’s amazing what could sory Committee of the Council of ues to serve VLA with great energy get through were it not for the Higher Education, the Board for and dedication, became editor of eagle eyes of the board.” the Certification of Librarians, the the renamed Virginia Librarian in aforementioned State Networking 1987. • Users Advisory Council (which Editing copy is a challenge we later became a board), and the State have all faced, and the next pair Izabela M. Cieszynski, Editor, Library Board. The government of editors, Dan Ream and Lucretia Virginia Librarian, 1987–88 meetings were always open to the McCulley, were not only careful public, unless reverting to execu- “It’s been a while since I was editor, readers, but also drew good writers tive session for personnel matters. following, I believe, Alan Zoellner. to the publication because of their But in the late 1970s and early I do remember the feeling of being wide range of contacts. JULY–SEPTEMBER, 2005 VIRGINIA LIBRARIES PAGE 53

Dan Ream and Lucretia McCulley, Jon Marken, Graphic Designer, tions of the pictures protruding Coeditors, Virginia Librarian, Virginia Librarian & Virginia from their boxes. 1993–95 Libraries, 1988–present “I seldom do projects I enjoy “During our coeditorship, we “Nearly twenty years of work on as much as Virginia Libraries. The enacted a number of editorial VLA publications have spoiled me. substantive articles are worth the changes, such as moving away Clients don’t get any better. effort to present elegantly, and the from theme issues to focusing “In 1984 I left an instructorship pictures are nearly always first- on a greater diversity of library in the VCU English Department rate, especially those of special types and regions in the state. Jon and began work in the publica- events by Pierre Courtois. Most Marken, whose firm, Lamp-Post tions office of Hampden-Sydney important, every editor, without Publicity in Farmville, handled our College, primarily as a writer but exception, has been a pleasure to printing, was a tremendous help in also as a fledgling graphic designer. work with. I applaud the Virginia redesigning the look of the issues, The director of the office, Richard Library Association for its dedica- with brighter colors, and eventu- McClintock, took on a few outside tion to top-quality publications.” ally photographs, on the covers. projects, including Virginia Librar- We incorporated more interviews ian, as it was called then. • with library staff and those whose “Four years later I left Hampden- Cy Dillon’s first tour as editor came work affected libraries, such as Jim Sydney to establish my own free- immediately after Dan and Lucre- Rettig on Distinguished Classics of lance business, Lamp-Post Public- tia’s. If you read the publication in Reference Publishing; Ray Frantz, ity. One of my early clients was the late 1990s, you will not be sur- long-time director of the Univer- Sandy Heinemann of Hampden- prised that he begins with a quota- sity of Virginia Libraries, upon Sydney’s Eggleston Library; she was tion from a poet. his retirement; UVA’s then-new then editor of the VLA newsletter. Electronic Text Center Director At some point Virginia Librarian Cy Dillon, Editor, Virginia Libraries, David Seaman on their innovative left Hampden-Sydney’s publica- 1996–2000, & Coeditor, 2004– electronic publishing and research tions office, but I made a pitch to present facilities; State Librarian John get it back. Tyson; Robert Vaughan, President “The design I inherited had its Imagining little, he received more of the Virginia Foundation for problems, so I was pleased when than he could have imagined. the Humanities and Public Policy; coeditors Lucretia McCulley and — Dabney Stuart, from “Travel- and others. John Kneebone of the Dan Ream asked me to redesign ing Light,” in The Man Who Loves Library of Virginia was a tremen- it in 1992. I worked hard to make Cezanne (LSU Press, 2004) dous help in the redesigned ‘Vir- the new design simple yet elegant, ginia Books’ review section. We with a highly readable typeface “Looking back at the 1996 issues were also pleased to finally get Vir- and ample white space between of Virginia Libraries, I was amused ginia Libraries indexed by Library columns. to see that four of the six of us on Literature so that more librarians “The editors have often allowed the Editorial Board listed the leo. and library science students world- me a hand in choosing the pull vsla.edu email address. This points wide could learn about the excel- quotes, a task I thoroughly enjoy. out the truth in Sandy Treadway’s lent work coming from Virginia’s The trick is to move past the dry statements about the Library of talented library staff.” summary sentences and dig out an Virginia’s efforts to assist the whole intriguing one, almost a teaser, to library community in the Com- • make the casual reader throw up monwealth, and it makes it quite Speaking of Jon Marken, we have her hands and say, ‘Okay, okay, I’ll clear that the past decade has been asked the multitalented designer, stop and read.’ a mad, and often delightful, dash editor, and author to describe his “The journal took another step of change in the world of librar- experiences with our journal. He forward with the first issue of ies and information technology. has always been a thoughtful and 2003, when editor Barbie Selby Was it less than a decade ago that dedicated collaborator who brings pushed for better treatment of our campus developed dependable out the best in our work. photographs, citing prominent email? Editing this publication magazines as examples of what from 1996 to 2000, and coedit- she wanted. I removed the borders, ing it with gifted author and edi- added subtle drop shadows, and tor C. A. Gardner for the past two developed a style with key por- years, has provided me the best PAGE 54 VIRGINIA LIBRARIES JULY–SEPTEMBER, 2005

The VLA Publications Committee gathers at an annual conference.

seat in the house for viewing the writers from the Library of Vir- varied and remarkable successes of “…the past decade ginia steadily improved the quality friends and colleagues. It has been of the ‘Virginia Reviews’ section an education, and shows no signs has been a mad, and so that it became the best source of becoming dull anytime soon. anywhere for reviews of books on “Linda Farynk, VLA President in often delightful, dash of Virginia history. At the same time, 1995, led the Executive Committee change in the world Pierre Courtois began document- to change the name of the Virginia ing more and more key events for Librarian, and to affirm the change of libraries and infor- VLA, and he eventually migrated in emphasis that this implied for to digital photography. Recogniz- the association as a whole. This mation technology.” ing the value of a photographic ar- move toward inclusion was not chive, the Publications Committee without controversy, and Linda began to collect Pierre’s work, and Farynk and Becky Laine, Publica- zine covered the early develop- some of the results can be seen in tions Committee Chair, asked me ment of VIVA, the opening of this commemorative issue. to become editor when Dan Ream the new Library of Virginia, LVA’s “We did not cover the reorga- and Lucretia McCulley decided not development of shared electronic nization of VLA’s management to continue. The former editors resources for public libraries, the that began when the council un- were both gracious and effective, creation of ILLiad, the inclusion of covered dire financial problems. and the transition was not difficult, Virginia Libraries on Wilson’s Om- Our budget was very tight for two beginning a run of good fortune nifile database, the creation of the years, and we kept the magazine’s that allowed us to publish dozens VLA webpage and Jobline as elec- size smaller than the forty pages of of substantial and timely articles tronic resources, the inclusion of our most recent issue. Thanks to in a bit over four years. Most of the Virginia Libraries in Virginia Tech’s the work and dedication of Linda credit for this success goes to the Scholarly Information Project, and Hahne, who took over as Executive Editorial Board, who recruited and the rise of the Internet as both an Director, and the careful attention encouraged the best writing. essential library resource and a tar- of an exceptional group of officers, “The late 1990s were a time of get for censorship. We even began the association has returned to a great progress in the technology a column by Scott Silet to review sound financial footing. The VLA of libraries, and also a key period the best free websites. John Knee- Foundation aims to make that in the history of VLA. The maga- bone, Julie Campbell, and other soundness permanent by establish- JULY–SEPTEMBER, 2005 VIRGINIA LIBRARIES PAGE 55 ing a million-dollar endowment to fall within this same theme of fun: ditional concepts of copyright. The fund the association’s key activi- the beginning of the All Virginia first Virginia Library History Award ties: scholarships, library advocacy, Reads program in 2000, which con- was presented to Kevin J. Hayes for continuing education, and awards. vinced me to read William Styron’s his amazing reconstruction of Wil- “As someone who came to Sophie’s Choice; the fiercely fought liam Byrd’s eighteenth-century li- librarianship by an unusual, and Battle of the Books at Longwood brary in Charles City County, and not always accepted path, I have College; the valiant efforts of the the Virginia Heritage Project made been constantly energized by the Cheap Stunts Committee to build great strides in creating a new da- vitality and passion of Virginia’s staff morale in Arlington County; tabase of African American history library community. I have learned the thrills of teaching a twenty- and culture. more and been given the oppor- five-hour engineering resources “Much has changed in the tunity to serve in more ways than course in Barcelona to students last one hundred years. We value I would have thought possible in people more now, I’m glad to say. 1985 when I was asked to take over It wasn’t that long ago when racial management of Stanley Library “I grew up in western issues had a huge impact on some- for a year or two until we could thing as simple as reserving a space improve student satisfaction with Canada in the 1970s for a library conference. I grew up our services. The best part of the in western Canada in the 1970s intervening years has been work- and was shocked by and was shocked by this discovery ing with our students and faculty, this discovery when when I was researching VLA’s his- but a close second has been work- tory for the first Virginia Libraries ing with this publication. It has I was researching issue of the new century in 2001. In introduced me to a vibrant group that same issue, we were reminded of people—library staff, advocates, VLA’s history….” that it also wasn’t that long ago, authors, even vendors — convinced only 1979, when paraprofessionals that their work adds richness to the were granted approval by VLA to life of their community. I am very who don’t speak English; and Bar- form a paraprofessional forum. In- appreciative of the opportunity.” bie Selby’s trepidant trip to Russia. clusion is what makes the Virginia Patricia Muller’s article (Volume Library Association strong, just as • 46, Number 3, July–September it makes Virginia’s libraries strong. In the spring of 2000, Andrea 2000) on the benefits of read- Virginia Libraries brings VLA mem- Kross took over as editor. Andrea ing aloud to children and babies bers together by giving everyone a was both an excellent writer, pro- made a huge impression on me; I voice — and an ear. Happy birthday, ducing an important article on have referred many parents to this Virginia Libraries, and many more!” VLA history, and an astute editor, article over the years, and chapter attracting excellent contributors. books are now my gift of choice for • new babies. Barbie Selby of the University of “The editorial board made sure Virginia and Earlene Viano of Andrea Kross, Editor, Virginia that serious articles came my way, Hampton Public Library served as Libraries, 2000–01 too; and 2000–01 were eventful the next coeditors. Barbie came to “I was probably the most irrever- years for libraries in Virginia. The the job with editing experience. ent editor of Virginia Libraries. I General Assembly granted $3.7 was always interested in articles million to the Infopowering the Barbie Selby, Coeditor, Virginia that would be fun to read, or fun Commonwealth project, quadru- Libraries, 2002–03 to find out about. I was delighted pling previous funding. This was a to discover that being VL’s editor huge success for VLA, and a boon “Much of my involvement in VLA allowed me to attend the VLA Para- for public libraries that could not has come through editing its pub- professional Forum’s conference in otherwise afford new computer lications — first the VLA Newslet- 2000 to report on their activities, equipment or Internet connec- ter (1989–1990), and then Virginia because I had heard so many positions. Virginia’s General Assembly Libraries (2001–2003). Here are a tive things about it — and they all also approved the establishment few highlights of my tenure. turned out to be true. The fact that of a Freedom of Information office • I changed the VLA Newsletter I had a really good time there is and passed the Uniform Comput- from pink to grey — for about quite beside the point! Many of the er Information Transactions Act four issues — then, by popular articles from my tenure as editor (UCITA), which threatened our tra- outcry, I changed it back to pink. PAGE 56 VIRGINIA LIBRARIES JULY–SEPTEMBER, 2005

• I printed something — I can no to connect authors and librarians C. A. Gardner, Coeditor, Virginia longer remember what — that than through Virginia Libraries? Libraries, 2004–present offended a nationally known Vir- As author and avid reader, librar- ginia librarian who let me know “Though I’ve only been coeditor ian and professional editor, I’ve in no uncertain terms that s/he since January 2004, I’ve greatly found working on our journal to was offended. I believe that was enjoyed the experience. I’ve had be extremely rewarding. I’ve been in my second issue of the VLA the chance to meet or commu- especially grateful to be paired Newsletter. I was mortified and nicate with many in the library with Cy, whose wide knowledge, frightened. world whom natural shyness experience, and contacts, as well as • I guest-edited an issue of Virginia would have ordinarily prevented his encouraging and friendly man- Libraries (Volume 44, Number 3, me from knowing; moreover, ner, have often lifted my spirits July–September 1998) on govern- I’ve learned much from the wide and made this job so much easier.” ment documents. Lots of fun. Photos I took appeared on the • cover and inside — a published “I changed the VLA Virginia Libraries faces VLA’s sec- photographer! ond century with the backing of a • Earlene Viano and I worked with Newsletter from pink strong organization, the oversight Jon Marken to slightly tweak the of a representative and active Edi- design and layout for Virginia Li- to grey — for about torial Board, exposure in a variety braries. four issues — then, by of electronic formats, interest from • Several members of the Publi- a diverse community of potential cations Committee met at the popular outcry, I writers around Virginia, and two Library of Virginia back around enthusiastic editors. Through all 2002 and began reviewing the changed it back to pink.” the titles and all the years, the VLA archives for use during various editors have maintained 2005 — our centennial. Quite a belief in the value of libraries, a interesting, enlightening, and variety of experiences from the commitment to high standards, entertaining to see old minutes library profession shared within and a willingness to work with taken on scraps of paper and the our pages. When Cy asked me to authors to deliver the best content like. Not as many old photos as help provide regular interviews available. Looking back or forward, we had hoped. with Virginia authors, I jumped it is more than we could ever have • Participating in the ALA Chapter at the chance — what better way imagined. VL Editor’s Group and learning from colleagues doing similar publications from around the country. • Mostly getting more involved in VLA activities and getting to know librarians from around the state and from different types of libraries — that was the highlight.” • By 2004, Cy Dillon realized that he missed the contact with librarians and writers that goes with working Nan Seamans on Virginia Libraries. At the same and Gail time, C. A. Gardner was also inter- McMillian of ested in the job, and was willing Virginia Tech to share the responsibility. As Lyn put Virginia explains, it has been a successful Libraries on- partnership. line in 1996.