volume #4 issue#32

August 9, 2007

Prairie Views: the newsletter of the Prairie Area Library System

System News

Save the Date!
PALS will host an "All PALS" meeting on Tuesday, November 6, 2007, available by videoconference at all eight neighborhood locations. This meeting will be an update on various topics/projects by PALS staff and an opportunity for neighborhood networking. Watch for more details in a few weeks.

Bus Ride to ILA Exhibits
PALS is once again proposing to offer a bus ride from each of the Service Centers to ILA Exhibits at the 2007 Conference in Springfield. Because of a change in the ILA Exhibits schedule, the ride is being offered on Wednesday, October 10th with arrival planned in time for the Opening Lunch Reception at 12:30 PM and the bus will leave for the return trip at 5 PM. The cost of the ride is $30. Besides the Service Centers, pickups may be offered at Rochelle, Peru, and Dwight.
We ask you to please register in http://palsnet.info/events as soon as possible. Because of the financial commitment involved in using a bus, we will need at least 20 riders per point of origin registered by September 5th. If we do not meet that goal then we will endeavor to arrange an alternative ride for registrants.
Questions about the rides should be addressed to Nancy Smith at nancys@palsnet.info or x4466.
It is the practice of the PALS business office to invoice the member library for the ride after the event.
If you need other financial arrangements made, please notify Debbie Fowler at debbief@palsnet.info.

FY2008 PALS Librarian's Advisory Committee Announced
Congratulations to the following members who have won election or been appointed to the PALS Librarian's Advisory Committee (LAC). PALS staff looks forward to a great year of activity with your assistance, input and direction.

Elected Committee members are:
Coal Valley: Ava Ketter, Rock Island Public Library, July 1, 2006 - June 30, 2008
Freeport: Marsha Holden, Freeport Public Library, July 1, 2007 - June 30, 2009
Kankakee: Cindy Fuerst, Kankakee Public Library, July 1, 2006 - June 30, 2008
LaSalle: Laura Frizol, LaSalle Public Library, July 1, 2007 - June 30, 2009
Rockford: Amy Li, Rockford Memorial Hospital, July 1, 2007 - June 30, 2009 (Special Library)
Shorewood: Jim Johnston, Joliet Public Library, July 1, 2007 - June 30, 2009
Sterling: Gail Wright, Prophetstown-Lyndon-Tampico Schools, July 1, 2006 - June 30, 2008 (School Library)
Sycamore: Dee Coover, DeKalb Public Library, July 1, 2007 - June 30, 2009

Appointments for June 30, 2007 – July 31, 2008 (LAC by-laws call for the Executive Director to make appointments that will balance the committee’s representation for geography and library type. Several more appointments can be expected.):
Coal Valley: LaWanda Roudebush, Davenport Public Library
Freeport: Susi Ludwig-Ruppert, Galena Public Library District
Kankakee: Diane Fox, Olivet Navarene University
Shorewood: Scott Pointon, Des Plaines Valley Public Library District and Marianne Thompson, Fountaindale Public Library District
Sterling: Jennifer Slaney, Sterling Public Library
Sycamore: Barb Coward, Cortland Public Library and Cynthia Cole, Nippersink Public Library District

Tentative Meetings:
Organizational meeting: Face to Face - 10 am - 3 pm - Friday, September 7, 2006, LaSalle Public Library
Two way video - 9 am - 12 am, Friday, November 9
Two way video - 9 am - 12 am, Friday, January 11
Two way video - 9 am - 12 am, Friday, March 14
Final Meeting: Face to face - 10 am - 3 pm, Friday, June 13, LaSalle Public Library

Watch for more information about meetings as they are finalized.

PALS Board Seeks Public Library Trustee for One-Year Appointment
The Prairie Area Library System Board of Directors continues to seek a public library trustee from an Illinois member library to fill a vacant seat. The PALS Board meets monthly at least nine times a year on the third Tuesday of the month. Meeting locations vary from month to month. Approved expenses associated with travel to meetings will be reimbursed by the system.
The appointment will run through June 30, 2008. Interested parties should contact Board President Penny O’Rourke at pennyo@byron.lib.il.us. More information on the responsibilities of the board and its members can be found on the PALS website at http://www.palsnet.info/about/board/default.asp.

PALS Communications Survey Now Open!
In FY2008, PALS staff wants to work on improving communications to our member libraries. We hope to implement a new website and a new design/platform for our newsletter, Prairie Views. We are also investigating expanding our use of Blogs/ RSS news feeds, Wikis, podcasting and more. Before we do that, we'd like to gather your input on current PALS communications tools and where you think we should move in the future. To that end, we invite you to participate in a survey about PALS and communication with our members. Click here to take the survey. The survey will be open until August 15, so please tell your colleagues! Everyone is welcome and encouraged to participate.

PALS Seeking Sublessee for Rockford Facility
Those who work at or visit the PALS Rockford Service Center know that we have more square footage in that facility then we actually need, but also ten years left on our lease for that space. We have recently put a sign out in front of the building to let potential sublessees know that we would be willing to sub-lease space. However, we want to assure members in the Rockford area that we have no plans to stop having office/meeting/workshop space in Rockford. We simply are hoping to reduce some of our operating expenses if we can sub-lease some of the extra space.

Union Listing Users Group (ULUG) Initial Meetings
If you missed the July 26th meeting, Union Listing(UL) Members of PrairieCat are urged to attend an informational and organizational session live at the Rockford Service Center on Wednesday, August 15th, from 9:30 to 11:30 AM. (also available at Coal Valley via videoconferencing). PALS staff will discuss the services, privileges and responsibilities that accompany UL PrairieCat membership as well as the financial commitment. There will be the opportunity to meet PALSGroup staff who will be present, and answer some questions, on the operational and procedural aspects of Union Listing. This will also be the opportunity to nominate ULUG representatives who will attend PALSGroup meetings in an advisory capacity and serve as liaison between the two groups. Please register on CLeO for the event.

Discount on Playaway Digital Audiobooks
Findaway World is offering PALS members a discount on Playaway digital audiobooks. These are self-contained players which are pre-loaded with a single book, and Playaway's library program offers circulation-friendly packaging. For details, see the Vendor Discounts page of the PALS website, and sign in with your CLeO login.

PALS Offers Group Purchase of USB Headset with Microphone
PALS has organized another group purchase for a USB headset with microphone. This Plantronics DSP-400 Headset will be a good one to use with our OPAL and WIMBA meetings and workshops, and, of course, you can use it for many other things as well. Please do note that your PC must have a USB port in order to use it. Our price on this unit is $37.00 per headset with a flat $7.99 per order shipping charge for up to five headsets. If you would like to order more than 5 headsets, please contact Kacy Kelly for shipping charges. If you are interested in ordering, please contact Kacy Kelly at kacyk@palsnet.info and include the following information: Library Name and Delivery Address (i.e. shipping address), Delivery Code, and Quantity Desired. Orders will be processed as they are received, and you will receive a bill directly from PALS. Deadline for the group purchase is Friday, August 31, 2007.

Events/Continuous Learning
CLeO: All continuous learning events sponsored by PALS are open to all staff or representatives of member libraries. Registration is required for all PALS continuous learning programs. To register, visit the PALS CLeO at http://www.palsnet.info/events/

Information on registration, how to set up a CLeO account, and PALS procedures for continuous learning can be found on the PALS website at: http://www.palsnet.info/services/cl/default.asp

PALS Events by Month

Fall 2007 LTA Classes at Rockford and Coal Valley Service Centers
Attention library support staff! Are you looking for opportunities to learn more about the library world? Are you looking toward advancement in your current position or in your career? Then the LTA (Library Technical Assistant) Program may be for you. In past years, PALS has offered the LTA program from the College of DuPage via videoconference at both the Rockford and the Coal Valley Service Centers. We are considering offering this opportunity again in fall 2007.

If you are interested or for additional information, please contact Dawn DiVenti dawnd@palsnet.info
This is a great way to enter or re-enter the academic environment.
Check http://www.cod.edu/LTA for more information.

PALS to Offer Two CPLA Courses
In partnership with the Public Library Association, PALS has been selected to offer two CPLA courses. http://www.pla.org/ala/pla/plaevents/cplacourses/CPLAcourses.cfm

For information about the Certified Public Library Adminstrator program.
*On October 24-25, 2007, PALS will host "Serving Diverse Populations."
The event will be held at the Rockford Public Library Main Auditorium at 215 N. Wyman St, Rockford IL 61104.

*On April 1-2, 2008, PALS will host "Current Trends."
The event will be held at the Moline Public Library at 3210 41st St, Moline IL 61265.

For more information about these events, please contact Dawn DiVenti, Library Services Coordinator, Continuous Learning,
dawnd@palsnet.info

Fall Classes at the University of Wisconsin-Madison
The University of Wisconsin/Madison has recently issued their Fall 2007 Continuing Education Series. Several of the classes are online, some on-site in Madison, or you can register for "Books & Beauty in Western Ireland: A Librarians' Trip scheduled in February/March. For details go to http://www.slis.wisc.edu/continueed.

Is there a Referendum in your Public Library's future?
Even if that future seems far away, take advantage of this PALS series of presentations to learn which factors to consider in making the decision, what steps--legal and otherwise--to take, and how other libraries have fared at the ballot box. The series will open with a presentation by Shawnee Library System Director, Joe Harris, highlighting the considerations involved in the decision to ask your citizens to vote for either a tax increase, a building bond, or an expansion of territory.
*On Thursday, August 16th, Attorney Phil Lenzini will discuss the legal considerations and steps involved. Because of the different ways of handling this for a tax-capped and a non tax-capped area, he will address each in separate OPAL presentations.
*Tara Griffin of the Harris Bank NA will be sharing tips and techniques learned in her experience working with libraries on building and tax referenda on Thursday, August 23rd. Tara's presentation will be via videoconference. Rounding out the series will be a panel discussion by PALS member librarians whose libraries have had a referendum. They'll share their experiences and talk about what worked and what didn't in their own case.
This program will be available by videoconference on the afternoon following the Public Libraries Fall Meeting on Tuesday, September 25th. To find out more information and to register, go to http://palsnet.info/events.
For additional information, contact Nancy Smith (nancys@palsnet.info or x4466)or Sandy Ringstrom (sandyr@palsnet.info or x2710)

Customer Service Conference from UW-Madison, SLIS
Spend two lovely days in Madison this fall... Insights and Solutions for Customer Service September 10-11, 2007
This conference will help your library rise to its customer service potential! Over two days, speakers will help you rediscover your sense of humor, invigorate your dedication to patrons, address challenges with technology and diversity, and add a creative spark to how you approach customer service. Click here for a full conference schedule.

Monday, September 10
Keynote: The Power of Humor for Librarians or How Dincerella Slopped Her Dripper
Breakout Sessions:
Creative Problem Solving Techniques - Dr. Bob Kann
Library Service Desks and Computer Help Desks: What can we learn from each other? Ken Frazier and Cathy O'Bryan, UW-Madison
Perspectives on Customer Service: A Panel Discussion - Paul Nelson, Director, Middleton Public Library; Erika Linzner, Reserve Collection & Circulation Supervisor, Madison Area Technical College; Christina Wagner, Librarian, Madison Public Library; Pamela Phillips Olson, Psychotherapist, Midwest Center for Psychotherapy; Tana Elias, Reference Librarian, Madison Public Library
Talking ‘Bout My(space) Generation: Social Networking & Teens - Sara Van Cleef, UW-Madison

Tuesday, September 11
Customer Service as if Your Library Depended on It - Pat Wagner, Pattern Research Questions?

Contact Anna Palmer, ahpalmer@wisc.edu or 608-263-4452

Member News

Looking for Volunteers!
The QUAD CITY TIMES READING ADVENTURES will be held on Sunday, September 9 from noon- 5 p.m. at the Mississippi Valley Fairgrounds. Each year local children’s librarians and volunteers have staffed the Reading Bingo tent. This year, we have some slots to fill and could use the help of other library staff members. All you have to do is show up for a 2 hour shift, call the Bingo titles and hand out prizes. What could be easier?! Other events of the day include make-it and take-it crafts, guest readers, a puppet show, wagon rides, a petting zoo, children’s music, inflatable games, and everyone child 12 and under receives a free book. This family event is all free thanks to the generosity of ALCOA, WQPT Quad Cities Public Television, Scott County Kids, Bi-State Literacy Council. Staff from PALS, Davenport and Bettendorf Public Libraries serve on the steering committee.
If you would be interested in helping out for an hour or two, please contact Tami Finley at tfinley@bettendorf.org or 563-344-4194.
Reading is a great adventure for everyone!

Closed
The Plano Community Library District (PDBB) will be closed on Friday, August 10th for staff training.

Bettendorf Library Will Close August 20th Through September 3rd
The Bettendorf Public Library Information Center will be closed August 20 through September 3. The library will install new carpeting and paint walls. Those of you that want to watch our progress can go the our “Carpeting blog” at http://www.bettendorflibrary.com/blog/

Davenport's Main Library Closing for Renovations
The Davenport Public Library Main Street location (321 Main Street) will be closed Tuesday, September 4, through Sunday, September 23, for a large-scale renovation project.

Missing Books - we've added a new section to Prairie Views where members are welcome to post information about materials that are missing in transit. As with all Prairie Views submissions, please send to prairieviews@palsnet.info.

THE BUTTER BATTLE BOOK AND
DID I EVER TELL YOU HOW LUCKY YOU ARE BY DR. SEUSS
BOTH BOOKS ARE INTRANSIT TO DPAG they belong to BYLY

Freebies/Exchanges/For Sale/Wanted

Prairie Area Library System offers a means for members to share discarded items to needy libraries. Procedures are outlined in the Reference Member Services Guide http://www.palsnet.info/services/reference/reference_guide.asp They are also outlined below.

Libraries wanting to offer up materials can email to Prairie Views, providing the following information:
*Library's name and phone number
*Title(s) of the items discarded

A list will be compiled for inclusion in the weekly Prairie Views newsletter. Anyone interested in freebies are to contact the library directly, (no earlier than Monday following the listing). Members are responsible for making their own arrangements. The PALS van delivery may be available for transporting items, as space and time permits. Contact your Service Center Delivery Manager to arrange for delivery of large shipments.

PALS Members - please remember that you are asked to not request or release any items whether they are Free or For Sale until Monday following the publication of the announcement in Prairie Views. This gives library staff a chance to see the message and request the materials if they are interested. Thanks for your cooperation - we have had several complaints in recent weeks about items being released before Monday.

No Freebies.

Job Openings
Jobs can be submitted on the PALS website at http://www.palsnet.info/jobs/ or by sending them to prairieviews@palsnet.info. All jobs submitted by either method will be included in Prairie Views for one week and will be posted for 120 days on the PALS website unless the library posting the job requests that it be removed before 120 days. Visit http://www.palsnet.info/jobs/ to views all the job ads that PALS currently has posted.

Media/Library Science
Earlville CUSD #9
* Duties: All aspects of the pre/K-12 school library.
* Qualifications: Applicant must have a master's degree in library science, be certified as a school librarian or be otherwise qualified to hold the position of school librarian.
* Additional Notes: This position is half-time. Hours and days will be determined by both parties upon hiring.
Call 815-246-8361 x12 for additional information.
Application Deadline: 08/17/2007
Start Date: 9/4/2007
Salary/Benefits: MS+0 = $33,352.00 for FT. Half-time equivalent = $$16,676.00 + 9% TRS benefit

To apply send letter of interest and resume to:
Patricia E. Hahto
Ed. D., Superintendent
Earlville CUSD 9
415 W. Union
Box 539
Earlville, IL 60518

Youth Librarian
Eldridge, IA, Scott County Library System.
The Scott County Library System invites applications for the Youth Librarian position. This is a full-time position in Eldridge, IA. Eldridge is five miles from Davenport and the Quad Cities. The library has a strong commitment to youth services and is looking for a creative, energetic individual. The Children's Librarian creates, implements, and presents agency and community programs for children ages 1-12 years and child related programs for parents, caregivers and teachers. This position also provides reference and reader's advisory services and interprets the Library's policies and procedures, develops and maintains a reference and circulating collection for juvenile patrons. In addition, this position will be asked to support the delivery of young adult and reference services.
* Qualifications: MLS from an ALA accredited program; effective oral and written communication skills; knowledge of current developments, trends, practices and philosophy in library services. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. May graduates are encouraged to apply.

Please send a cover letter, resume and names of three professional references to:
Paul H. Seelau, Director,
Scott County Library System
200 N. 6th Avenue
Eldridge, IA 52748
or email pseelau@scottcountylibrary.org

Special Collections Assistant
Thomas Tredway Library, Augustana College.
10 months, 25 hr./week Hours: Noon-5 p.m., M-F
* Responsibilities: Indexing materials, including photograph documentation for indexing; research and reference assistance for users; cataloging and processing of materials; conservation and preservation of materials; teaching and supervising student assistants; other responsibilities as needed (e.g. typing, compiling statistics, assisting with exhibits, etc.)
* Required qualifications: Interest in archival materials and in research required to process them; excellent customer service and problem-solving skills; attention to detail; ability to work independently, in teams, and with interruptions; ability to supervise student employees; good written and oral communication skills; flexibility; interest in and ability to work with a variety of computer applications. Preferred qualifications: Bachelor’s degree.

Submit letter of application, resume, and three professional references by August 27 , 2007 to:
Augustana College
Human Resources
639 38th Street
Rock Island, IL 61201.
For additional information please access: http://www.augustana.edu/humanresources

Bookmobile Driver/Clerk
Under the direct supervision of the Bookmobile Manager, this position will assist with the day-to-day operation of the library Bookmobile services, including circulation of materials, promotion of services, coordinating vehicle maintenance, and other duties as needed. This 10 - hour a week position requires two years of relevant experience. Some evening and weekend work required. Position is available beginning immediately. • Must have the stamina to climb steps, and the ability to stand for extended periods of time, and be able to walk, sit, reach, bend and stoop. • May be required to lift book bags weighing approximately fifty (50) pounds and/or push book carts weighing approximately one hundred (100) pounds. Requires good interpersonal and customer service skills to communicate effectively and relate well with a diverse population to include children, teens, adults, senior citizens, and persons with disabilities. Must possess a valid Illinois driver’s license with a safe driving record and a Commercial Driver’s License B (with air brake endorsement or willing to certify) to drive the bookmobile on a regular basis. Hourly salary range begins at $12 and is commensurate with experience. Applications accepted until position is filled. EEOC employer

Please send resume with cover letter to:
Jody Olivieri
Bookmobile Manager
Homer Township Public Library
14320 West 151 Street
Homer Glen, IL 60491
Email: jolivieri@homerlibrary.org

Director
The Geneva (IL) Public Library District Board of Trustees seeks a visionary leader, committed to continue its tradition of exceptionally friendly and responsive public service. Situated in the beautiful Fox River Valley, Geneva is just 30 miles west of Chicago in Kane County. With a dedicated staff of 84 (51 FTE), a facility of 27,600 sq. ft., and an operating budget of $5 million, the library district serves a growing 30,000+ residents who highly value library service, evidenced by an 85% card holder rate, and a circulation of nearly 550,000. Qualified candidates must have an accredited MLS and at least 8 years of progressively responsible public library experience including five years supervisory and budget responsibilities. Essential attributes include a commitment to intellectual freedom, sense of humor, proven fiscal and personnel management skills, intellectual curiosity, strong leadership skills and a true commitment to excellence in service. Position available: January 2008 Starting minimum salary: $95,000 plus excellent benefits.

Submit a resume, cover letter and three references to:
Mary Jane Kepner
Kepner + Associates
309 W. Harris Avenue
La Grange, Illinois 60525
by September 21.
No e-mailed applications accepted.
For more information see http://www.geneva.lib.il.us or contact m.kepner@sbcglobal.net.

Youth Services Assistant
The Marengo Public Library District is looking for an outgoing and energetic youth services assistant to work six hours a week.
* Duties include collection development, as well as the planning and running of children’s programming from age infant to teen.
* Minimum qualifications include: Bachelors degree, experience in working with children, basic computer skills, and excellent interpersonal and communication skills. $15.00 per hour
Applications are available upon request at the library and will be accepted until the position is filled.

Please direct questions about the position to Sondra at 815-568-8236 or by e-mail Sondrat@marengopubliclibrary.org

Middle School Librarian
Opening at Shepherd Middle School in Ottawa, Il. Job entails supervision of 4 K-6 library TA's. Salary and benefits commensurate with experience. Contact Mike Bannister at 1-815-434-7925.

Digital Resources Librarian
Beloit College Library
Do you thrive on variety? Crave an opportunity to contribute to multiple aspects of Library and Information service? Are you looking for an opportunity to collaborate with Library, IT and faculty colleagues to usher new services from evaluation to implementation? Beloit College Information Services and Resources Division seeks a team-oriented, innovative librarian to implement, administer and provide outreach for the library’s digital resources and services. Please visit http://www.beloit.edu/~humanres/jobs/index.php for more details. Beloit College is committed to the educational benefits of diversity and urges all interested individuals to apply. AA/EEO Employer

Reference and ILL News

September 10: Slam the Web Answer Boards!
Bill Pardue, the Arlington Heights librarian who taught an excellent PALS workshop on AskAwayIllinois earlier this year, is encouraging reference personnel to "invade" online Q&A sites - Yahoo Answers, Wikipedia Reference Desk, Answerbag, etc. - with answers from authoritative resources on Monday, September 10. The idea is to boldly demonstrate your expertise and to market your library. For more information, and to list yourself as a participant, see the Slam the Boards! wiki.

Youth Services and School Library News

Jumpstart’s Read for the Record
Last August, more than 150,000 children read the same book with an adult on the same day to support early literacy and set a world record. The goal of Jumpstart’s Read for the Record campaign is to raise public awareness about significant disparities in early education. This year, Jumpstart is partnering with ALA’s Association for Library Service to Children (ALSC) to expand the reach of this award-winning campaign. Jumpstart and ALSC invite you to share The Story of Ferdinand with children in your communities on September 20, 2007 and be a part of a nationwide movement connecting children and adults in the shared learning experiences all children need to be successful in school and in life! Jumpstart has created tools on the campaign website’s Events Page to help librarians, educators and parents find or create events in their community. With the Event Finder/Builder, you can create and advertise your events so families can search for and attend events on September 20. The Build-an-Event Kit provides event planners with all the materials and activities they need to make Jumpstart’s Read for the Record a success in every community!
To learn more about the campaign or to get involved, please visit http://www.readfortherecord.org.

Every Child Ready to Read @ Your Library
Is it time to rev up and improve your storytimes? Discover how to incorporate important developmental skills for early literacy into your preschool programs. Learn techniques for relating these skills to parents and caregivers so they can continue the process at home. “Every Child Ready to Read @ Your Library” will be held twice for your convenience so choose the session most convenient for you. On Wed., Sept. 5th, the program will be at the Yorkville Public Library and on Thurs., Sept. 6th, the Forreston Public Library will host. The time for both programs will be 9:00-4:00 and the cost is $30 which includes lunch.

Please visit http://www.palsnet.info/events to register.

School Librarian Awards
As you are beginning to return to your school libraries this August, it is time to think about the ISLMA Polestar and Highsmith Awards. The Polestar is given to an ISLMA member who has been nominated by other members as having made outstanding contributions to school library media programs in Illinois.
See the web site for more details:http://www.islma.org/polestar.htm
Nomination deadline is September 1. The Highsmith Award is given to recognize a school library media center's achievement in planning and implementing an innovative or creative program or service which has a measurable positive impact on its users.
See the web site for more details: http://www.islma.org/highsmith.htm
Application deadline is September 15.

Public Library News

Is There a Referendum in Your Public Library's Future?
Even if that future seems far away, take advantage of this PALS series of presentations to learn which factors to consider in making the decision, what steps--legal and otherwise--to take, and how other libraries have fared at the ballot box.

The series will open with a presentation by Shawnee Library System Director, Joe Harris, highlighting the considerations involved in the decision to ask your citizens to vote for either a tax increase, a building bond, or an expansion of territory. This Thursday, August 9th presentation will be via OPAL--an on-line platform--so you can attend at your computer.

On Thursday, August 16th, Attorney Phil Lenzini will discuss the legal considerations and steps involved. Because of the different ways of handling this for a tax-capped and a non tax-capped area, he will address each in separate OPAL presentations.

Tara Griffin of the Harris Bank NA will be sharing tips and techniques learned in her experience working with libraries on building and tax referenda on Thursday, August 23rd. Tara's presentation will be via videoconference.

Rounding out the series will be a panel discussion by PALS member librarians whose libraries have had a referendum. They'll share their experiences and talk about what worked and what didn't in their own case. This program will be available by videoconference on the afternoon following the Public Libraries Fall Meeting on Tuesday, September 25th.

To find out more information and to register, go to CLeO. For additional information, contact Nancy Smith (nancys@palsnet.info or x4466)or Sandy Ringstrom (sandyr@palsnet.info or x2710)

Academic Library News
No Academic Library News this week.

Special Library News
No Special Library News this week.

Support Staff News
No Support Staff news this week.

Technology Services News
No Technology Services News this week.

E-Rate Corner

I have just a small bit of information to share this week. Verizon North has consolidated and moved their E-Rate Center.
The following information should be used for questions and to fax BEAR forms to be signed and returned:
Verizon E-Rate Center
Phone: 866-483-8858
Fax: 805-375-9154
Contact Name is: Cindy Morvan

For E-Rate questions call Marilyn at 815-229-4470 or email marilynj@palsnet.info

New Books at PALS
No New Books at PALS this week.

Library News Around the State & Nation

ILA Conference 2007
The Illinois Library Association (ILA) Annual Conference will be held October 9-12 at Springfield's Prairie Capital Convention Center. Join your colleagues in making an investment in your skills, your profession, and your community. The ILA Annual Conference will offer more than 70 educational sessions, 150 speakers, 100 exhibitors, and 1,000 of your professional colleagues. It is a vital opportunity to learn from each other, sharing the successes and challenges of the past year, while developing and renewing professional and personal networks.

Early Bird Registration Deadline Approaches: Monday, August 13, is the advance registration deadline for the 2007 ILA Annual Conference. Save money by registering early: https://www.ila.org/events/reg_conf.htm

Conference Hotels:
President Abraham Lincoln Hotel & Conference Center
701 East Adams St.
Springfield, IL 62701-1627
Phone: (217) 544-8800
Toll Free: (866) 788-1860
Fax: (217) 544-9607
Single/Double: $97

Hilton Springfield
700 East Adams St.
Springfield, IL 62701-1627
Phone: (217) 789-1530
Toll Free: (800) 774-1500
Fax: (217) 789-0709
Single/Double: $105/$120

Please mention that you are attending the Illinois Library Association Annual Conference when making your reservation.

Free Exhibit Passes Available: Exhibits are open Wednesday, October 10, 12:30 to 5:00 P.M., and Thursday, October 11, 9:00 A.M. to 2:00 P.M. Free passes are available to those not registered for the conference at the ILA registration desk.

Join us for the Conference Evening Receptions:
All-Conference Reception: Illinois Library Systems invite you to an all-conference reception on Wednesday, October 10 from 8:00 P.M. to midnight in the Ballroom of the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Hotel and Conference Center. Join your colleagues to dance the night away. Pre-registration is not required; however, voluntary donations will be accepted at the door. The reception will feature snacks, a cash bar, and a DJ.

ILA President's Reception at Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum - If you haven't yet visited the new Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum, join ILA on Thursday, October 11 for an evening reception. We will have the opportunity to visit the galleries for a private, after-hours viewing. The museum takes visitors from a rustic Indiana cabin to the White House, exploring President Lincoln's life as never before. Artifacts on display at the museum include one of five existing copies of the Gettysburg Address in Lincoln's own hand. Registration includes a buffet dinner and cash bar. Pre-registration is required.

Book Cart Drill Team - 2007 State Championship, Sponsored by DEMCO The 2007 Book Cart Drill Team State Champion will be crowned at the ILA Conference in Springfield on October 10 from 5:00 to 6:30 P.M. in the Prairie Capital Convention Center. We need teams from your library to join the fun and compete. We also need volunteers to help with the competition logistics. The Master of Ceremonies for the competition will be Keith Michael Fiels, ALA Executive Director. Judges include John Ison from Demco, ILA President Brad Baker and Allen Lanham from Eastern Illinois University. Prizes will be awarded for artistic impression, technical skills, best costumes, best cart decorations and more. Best of all - the Illinois State Champion will be invited to compete in the ALA World Championship at the 2008 Annual Conference in Anaheim. Next stop Hollywood! The deadline for registration is September 14. To register, fill out the application form on page 39 of the preliminary conference program, https://www.ila.org/pdf/2007pre_prog.pdf You can contact co chairs Dee Brennan (dbrennan@oppl.org) at the Oak Park Public Library and Rebecca Teasdale (rteasdale@stdl.org) at the Schaumburg Township District Library if you have questions, or if you want to volunteer.

New Event Added! ILA Swap and Shop 2007! Gather great ideas for publicity materials and share your own materials with your fellow librarians! Come to Swap & Shop at ILA to collect sample annual reports, event calendars, bibliographies/booklists, brochures, newsletters, and program/event materials from all sizes and types of libraries. Participants can view and take home the materials, which will be set on tables in the Table Talk area of the ILA Exhibits, from 4:00 to 5:00 p.m., Wednesday, October 10. For more information contact Alissa Williams at 309-828-6091 ext. 219 or alissaw@bloomingtonlibrary.org. Sponsored by the ILA Marketing Committee.

News from Vendors
No News from Vendors this week.

Legislative/Advocacy News

Congressman Manzullo to Meet With Librarians in the 16th Congressional District
An informal meet & greet with Congressman Donald Manzullo will be held on Tuesday, August 21, 9 to 10 am at the Cherry Valley PLD. Attendance is especially requested of those who’ve received LSTA grants in the last years. Please use this opportunity to thank the congressman for supporting LSTA funding and mention how not only your library benefited from the grant, but how it also added to making your community a better place to live. Those who’ve not received LSTA grants but wish they had, should take advantage of this opportunity to request increased LSTA funding. This has been on the top three list of issues every year at ALA’s National Legislative Day. Here’s an opportunity to mention the need without incurring the cost of a flight to DC and “bargain” room rates of $200+ for each night’s lodging in DC and needing to miss several busy days out of your library. Bring along your business cards, library promotional material and any brochures that you have on events at your library. Please register on CLEO.

Following the meet & greet, you’re invited to stay for the PALS board meeting at the same location. I look forward to seeing many of you and making the strong impression that the 16th district has many libraries and that we need to be listened to! For questions please contact inaram@palsnet.info

No-Smoking Legislation
Governor Blagojevich signed landmark legislation last week that will prohibit smoking in almost all public places in Illinois. The Illinois Department of Public Health has a fact sheet with frequently asked questions about the new law.

Grant News

SLA Research Grant
The Special Libraries Association (SLA) has pooled its research funds and now is offering a new SLA Research Grant incorporating the Steven I. Goldspiel Memorial Research Grant Fund. SLA supports two types of proposals. Firstly research projects focused on the needs and concerns of information professionals in special libraries and related venues, with its current focus being on evidence-based practice, as in the Special Libraries Association (SLA) Research Statement, "Putting Our Knowledge to Work" (www.sla.org/researchstatement). Awards may be granted up to $25,000. Secondly projects which directly benefit the operations of SLA and its units, by furthering the scientific, literary and educational purpose for which the association is organized and operated. Awards may be granted up to $10,000. Deadline for applications: Oct. 29, 2007. More information is available on SLA’s website: http://www.sla.org/content/learn/scholarship/researchgrant/index.cfm

ALSC and Candlewick Press "Light the Way" with $5,000 grant
ALA, CHICAGO - The Association for Library Service to Children (ALSC), a division of the American Library Association (ALA), and Candlewick Press are pleased to announce “Light the Way: Outreach to the Underserved,” a one-time grant of $5,000 for a library conducting exemplary outreach to underserved populations. The grant will be presented in honor of Newbery Medalist and Geisel Honoree Kate DiCamillo. “When I was a child from a broken home in search of comfort, librarians handed me a book.” said DiCamillo. “I am proud to join with ALSC today in this ongoing effort to put books into the hands of children who need the books—the light—the most.”

The ALSC Library Service to Special Population Children and Their Caregivers Committee (LSSPCC) will select the winner and may name up to three Honorable Mentions. Special population children may include those who have learning or physical differences, speak English as a second language, are in a non-traditional school environment or a non-traditional family setting (such as teen parents, foster children, children in the juvenile justice system and children in gay and lesbian families) and those who need accommodation service to meet their needs. “With the ‘Light the Way’ grant, Kate DiCamillo and Candlewick Press serve as shining examples of an author and publisher who can make a measurable difference to underserved populations,” says ALSC President Jane B. Marino, director of the Bronxville (N.Y.) Public Library. “This grant provides ALSC with a unique opportunity to honor and support libraries who are doing exceptional work to reach out to such groups. We are honored to work with them through the Library Service to Special Population Children and Their Caregivers Committee.”

Criteria and an application for the grant are available now on the ALSC Web site. The winner and Honorable Mentions will be announced at ALA’s Midwinter Meeting in Philadelphia, January 11-16, 2008. For more information on ALSC or the “Light the Way” grant, please contact Diane Foote at 312-280-2162 or dfoote@ala.org.

Just So You Know

No Just So You Know this week.

Prairie Views will be published weekly on Thursdays on the PALS website. PALS member libraries are encouraged to send items for inclusion to prairieviews@palsnet.info by Tuesday of the week you would like your information to appear.

We will send an email reminder each week when the new issue is available on the PALS website. If you do not currently receive email reminders, please send a message to prairieviews@palsnet.info to have your email address added to the reminder mailing list or visit http://mailman.palsnet.info/mailman/listinfo to subscribe or unsubscribe yourself.