volume #4 issue#34

August 23, 2007

Prairie Views: the newsletter of the Prairie Area Library System

System News

PALS Communications Survey Extended to September 1
The PALS Communications Survey will remain open until September 1 to give member school librarians (and anyone else) a chance to complete the survey if interested. Visit http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=TGrdBvLqTxAsCkZ4lUKLWg_3d_3d to complete the survey.

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.

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 from College of DuPage
It's not too late to register! You can still begin your Library Technology certificate or degree this fall in the nationally known College of DuPage Library Technology Assistant Program! Already have your degree? Then brush up on the workplace and technology skills that can make a difference in your career. 'LTA Your Way' means we offer on-campus, two-way video, and Internet classes to fit your busy schedule. See our website at http://www.cod.edu/LTA or contact Linda Slusar, LTA Program Coordinator, for more information at slusar@cod.edu, (630)942-2592.

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

*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.

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

Best Wishes for a Speedy Recovery
to Judy Pet, Director, Manhattan Public Library who is recovering from recent surgery and has not yet returned to work full-time.

Mobile Computer Lab Now Available for Use at the Rock Island Main Library
Organizations who want to add a high-tech element to presentations or trainings can now use a new tool just made available through the Rock Island Public Library downtown. The Main Library has added a mobile computer lab for use in the 2nd floor Community Room at 401 19th Street, Rock Island.
The community room and mobile computer lab are provided at no cost to organizations and groups on a first-come, first-served availability basis. Organizations using the Community Room may not charge admission or sell a commercial product. The room is available during regular library hours, with all programs ending at least 15 minutes before closing. To reserve the room and the mobile lab, please call the library business office between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday at 309-732-7305.

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.

East Dubuque District Library Closing to move location
The East Dubuque District Library will be closed September 1, 2007 through September 22, 2007. They are moving to a larger building. New address will be 350 Wall Street, East Dubuque, IL 61025. Open House at the new location will be held on Sunday, October 7, 2007 from 1:00 to 4:00PM. Join us in our celebration.

Congratulations
DeKalb Public Library in partnership with the DeKalb County Community Foundation, Altrusa, District 428 and Kishwaukee College Family Literacy Program is also the recipient of a Big Read grant featuring Fahrenheit 451.

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.

No Missing Books this week.

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.

Fossil Ridge has deleted the following and will give away free:
Illinois Compiled Statutes 2004- 9 volumes
2005 Supplement to Illinois Compiled Statutes 2004 - 2 volumes

If interested contact:
pahanuska@fossilridge.org

Reddick Library has to giveaway
1) Body Surfing by Anita Sheve
2) Best's key rating guide : Property/Casualty 2006
3) Best's key rating guide : life/health 2006
4) Countries of the world 2006. - 2 vol.

If interesed contact:
Elaine Chapman
email emchapman@reddicklibrary.org

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.

Library Director
Pontiac Public Library
The Pontiac Public Library Board seeks applicants for the position of Library Director. Located 35 miles north of Bloomington-Normal, the library operates in a 12,000 square foot building that serves a population of 12,100 people. With a staff of 12 people, the library serves a population both diverse in make up and interests including a portion that is heavily active in library activities and affairs. The successful candidate must have a mastery of typical library leadership functions, excellent written and verbal communication skills, functional knowledge of current and emergent technologies, a commitment to public service as well as an openness to join the community at large. This is an excellent opportunity for a manager who excels in both front lines and behind the scenes work in a library setting.
* Requirements: MLS from and ALA accredited school. Leadership in a public library is desired. Applicants with a college degree only may be considered with library experience. Skills should include knowledge of budget planning, collection development, fundraising, personnel management, short and long term planning and fluency in current technologies.
* Salary: $40,000 minimum starting salary with excellent benefits. Salary negotiable, DOQ.

Please send resume and cover letter to:
Pontiac Public Library
Attn: Library Director Search Committee
211 E. Madison
Pontiac, IL 61764
or Jobs@pontiacpubliclibrary.org
Applications accepted until position filled
Visit the library’s website at www.pontiacpubliclibrary.org

Cataloger
High School District 21, serving the five high schools of District 211.
* Responsibilities: This position offers an opportunity for a knowledgeable cataloger with strong communication skills to provide cataloging in a number of formats (monographs, serials, audio visual/media, and electronic resources). Also responsible for supervision of cataloging assistant. *Qualifications: MLS or equivalent. Cataloging experience desired. Excellent analytical, interpersonal, and communication skills, as well as initiative, willingness to learn and flexibility. Ability to plan, coordinate, and implement projects. Working knowledge of current and emerging cataloging standards (AACR2 2nd ed. rev., Library of Congress Subject Headings, MARC 21 format , Dewey Classification). Experience with the OCLC cataloging system. Knowledge of integrated library system functionality pertaining to cataloging, preferably Horizon. Strong commitment to excellent service and the ability to interact effectively and work productively and collaboratively with district media staff and cataloging assistant.

Send cover letter and resume to:
Dr. Robert Small,
Director of Instructional Technology
1750 South Roselle Road
Palatine, IL 60067-7379
or rsmall@d211.org
Deadline Date For Filing Applications: Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. Approve Modify Delete

Technical Services Aide
Rock Island Public Library
Main Library
* Starting Range: $10.2909 per hour
* Hours of Work: Part-time - 12 hours per week - Weekdays
* Minimum Requirements: This is customer service and clerical work in the Department of Reference and Technical Services. Work involves responsibility for assisting in the technical services area with sorting mail, distribution of materials to appropriate departments, and tracking of materials usage via statistical reports. Work is performed under the direct supervision of the appropriate department supervisor assigned. Requires knowledge, skill and mental development equivalent to completion of four (4) years of high school with some experience in the operation of libraries or in a customer service position in addition the ability to operate library computer system.

All persons interested in this position should apply to:
Personnel Department
Rock Island City Hall
1528 Third Avenue
Rock Island, IL.
The Personnel Department is open from 7:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Full Time Youth Services/Cataloging
The Seneca Public Library District is looking for an energetic, outgoing person to join our library staff. Candidate must possess an LTA or MLS degree, be proficient with computers, organized, knowledgeable of Sirsi/Workflows database, and willing to provide a diverse range of professional services. Cataloging experience is preferred. Duties include but are not limited to: Assist patrons Assist with computers Assist with youth programming Bimonthly news letter preparation and publication Cataloging of library materials Benefits include medical and dental insurance, IMRF, paid vacation and holidays. Resumes will be accepted until this position is filled.

Please send resume with cover letter to:
Margie Nolan
Seneca Public Library District
210 N. Main St.
Seneca, IL 61360
Email - mnolan@senecalibrary.org
Fax – (815) 357-6568

Reference and ILL News
No Reference and ILL News this week.

Youth Services and School Library News
No Youth Services and School Library News this week.

Public Library News
No Public Library News this week.

Academic Library News
No Academic Library News this week.

Special Library News

New Technologies Workshop
The Library of the Health Sciences is offering a free workshop entitled "Geeks Bearing Gifts" by Bryan Vogh from University of Illinos Chicago. He will present many new technologies available such as blogs, wikis, rss feeds and aggregators, Blackberry and other wireless technologies. This will be held on Wednesday, Sept. 12 beginning at 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM then we shall break for lunch and resume at 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM. It is being held in the Crawford Library of the Health Sciences Computer Lab. Please RSVP to Felicia Barrett by Sept 4 to save you a place.

Felicia A. Barrett, MLS Assistant Health Sciences Librarian
University of Illinois College of Medicine
Library of the Health Sciences
1601 Parkview Avenue
Rockford, Illinois 61107-1897
815-395-5660
fbarrett@uic.edu

Support Staff News

Reaching Forward South Conference for Support Staff
It's almost time for this year's Reaching Forward South Conference for Library Support Staff to be held September 20-21 at Northfield Inn in Springfield. The theme is "Outside the Box!" The keynote speaker will be Gail Johnson from Face to Face Communications and Training. Again this year we have expanded our conference to include a session on Thursday afternoon plus great entertainment by Don Keding, Storyteller, in the evening. Do you know someone who has made an outstanding contribution to their own library, the library community, or to the enhancement of library assistants in general? If so be sure to submit a nomination for the Support Staff of the Year Award. The two award winners will each receive a $100 cash award! Check out all the details at www.reachingforwardsouth.org. Click on the Conference tab then the Awards tab for a copy of the nomination form or on the Registration tab for a copy of the registration flyer. Hope to see you there!

Technology Services News
No Technology Services News this week.

E-Rate Corner

Below is a note from the State Library regarding a technology planning survey. Please help them out if you can.
Hope you are all sending off your BEAR forms for Year 9 (yellow) that ended 06/30/07. Make sure to give the phone companies enough time to respond and to return a signed page 4 of the form.
For E-Rate questions call Marilyn at 815-229-4470 or email marilynj@palsnet.info
Here’s the survey information. WebJunction staff is assessing ways in which WebJunction and TechAtlas can provide tools that would make the technology planning and approval process for E-rate applications easier. As a part of this study, we are soliciting input from libraries. Please complete a brief survey, which should only take about 10 minutes. http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=DRemHrlG5ksdTz8hPzIVsw_3d_3dnants

Library News Around the State & Nation

WebJunction Survey
The official launch of WebJunction Illinois, an exciting new website for the library community, is set for October. In the meantime, WebJunction staff is assessing ways in which WebJunction and TechAtlas can provide tools that would make the technology planning and approval process for E-rate applications easier. As a part of this study, the Illinois State Library is soliciting input from libraries. Please complete a brief survey, which should only take about 10 minutes. http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=DRemHrlG5ksdTz8hPzIVsw_3d_3dnants

42 Locations in U.S. and Canada Set to Screen New Librarian Documentary; Deadline Extended
MADISON, WI – The producers of the new documentary, The Hollywood Librarian: A Look at Librarians Through Film, announced that the list of screening locations for the film during Banned Books Week (September 29 through October 6) now numbers 42 across the North American continent. The film will be shown from Saratoga Springs, New York to Anchorage, Alaska, with Canada libraries in Winnipeg and Quebec also participating. Memphis, Tennessee, Ketchum, Idaho and Las Cruces, New Mexico are among the locations where libraries will host the film with everything from red carpet entrances to lunchtime brown bag discussions. The full list (available as a Google Map on the home page at http://www.hollywoodlibrarian.com, “Where to See the Film”) comprises 64 screenings in 19 states, plus the two Canadian locations. The 96-minute documentary is the first look at the real work and skills of the more than 60,000 librarians working in the U.S. The film provides a glimpse into this well-loved but little understood profession and will leave audiences with a new appreciation for a group of people who have been called “democracy’s heroes.” The August 15 deadline to fax a signed Screening Agreement has passed, but due to numerous requests the deadline has been extended until August 24 at 5 p.m. Pacific time. Screening Agreements are available at the film’s website at http://www.hollywoodlibrarian.com.

Free Radio Public Service Announcements Now Available for Library Card Sign–up Month in September
CHICAGO – The American Library Association (ALA) announces the release of five new radio public service announcements (PSAs) that are now available to help libraries promote Library Card Sign-up Month in September and the library card as the “smartest card in your wallet.” The PSAs can be downloaded for free at www.ala.org/librarycardsignup and are available in 10, 15 and 30-second MP3 formats. Libraries are encouraged to share the PSAs with local radio stations. Other free tools include sample press materials, a list of “52 Ways to Use Your Library Card” and “Smartest Card” logos. Press materials and “Smartest Card” logos are available in both English and Spanish. Examples from libraries that have used giant “Smartest Cards” in photo opportunities also appear on the Web page. Libraries are encouraged to let the ALA Public Information Office know how they are celebrating Library Card Sign-up Month. Visit www.ala.org/librarycardsignup and click on “Share your story.” The strongest examples will be shared with the press as part of ALA’s national media relations efforts. Observed in the month of September since 1987, Library Card Sign-up Month is a time when ALA and libraries across the county remind parents and kids that a library card is the most important school supply of all.

Value of Information Sharing
The Scholarly Publishing and Academic Resources Coalition (SPARC) has announced a call for entries for its 2007 video contest. “The SPARC Discovery Awards challenges you to illustrate in a short video presentation what you see as the value of sharing information. Use your imagination to suggest what good comes from bringing down barriers to the free exchange of information.” First place price is $1000. Video entries must be no more than 2 minutes in length, and the deadline for submission is December 2. Winners will be shown at ALA Midwinter in January. For entry requirements and other details, see the contest’s website http://www.sparkyawards.org/index.php.

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.

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.

PALS will be offering rides to ILA on Wed, October 10. Rriders will be able to participate in the ILA Swap and Shop program if interested. ILA Exhibit attendance is free and rides are $30. Register at www.palsnet.info/events.

If you’d like to submit materials for the Swap and Shop, please send 50 copies of your items by October 4th to:
Lisa Pappas
Plainfield Public Library District
15025 S. Illinois Street
Plainfield, IL 60544.
Please mark the envelope “SWAP & SHARE”. Questions? Email Lisa at: lpappas@plainfield.lib.il.us.

News from Vendors
No News from Vendors this week.

Legislative/Advocacy News

Successful LSTA Advocacy Event
On August 21st, librarians and trustees from the 16th congressional district met with Congressman Don Manzullo to thank him for his support of libraries and LSTA funding. As the congressman moved around the room to greet the attendees, he heard stories of what the grants accomplished at individual libraries. Perhaps the most dramatic example of the day was given by John Royalty, trustee at Kirkland PL, of how a grant of just $500 made a difference in the community. The “Remembering When” grant generated so much interest that it’s resulting in the formation of a Historical Society in Kirkland. Truly a success story!

Among the other examples cited by the participants were the collections that were acquired because of various grants: Preparedness, Response and Recovery Plan Programs; Ready With R’s; Demonstration of Library Service for Unserved Areas; Keep, Toss, Donate or Sell– Cleaning House; Building a Healthier Bridge; To Your Health; Philosophy and Psychology in the Library; Changing Resources for Changing Times; Active Alert Seniors; Computer Training and the Library; Meandering the Midwest; Fundraising 101; It’s Not the Plan – It’s the Planning; Kreative Kids; Timeless Treasures of the Past: Learning For the Future; An Once of Prevention; La Biblioteca Es Para Usted; Space Crunch; Health Matters; Bilingual Book Bag; Science Health and Technology Update.

After the congressman’s remarks, Jane Lenser of PALS was able to speak of her grant on Keeping the Door Open for Tweens and Teens which was a direct tie in to the congressman’s observation that children are eager listeners and enjoy stories but then seem to lose interest in reading as they’re drawn into technology. Eve Kirk, Cherry Valley PLD, and hostess for the event, told of meeting the congressman’s brother one day when her car stalled. Not only did he help her, but after learning that she’s a librarian, he remembered her and donated boxes of books when cleaning out the house after his father’s death. One of the books turned out to be an autographed copy of Ronald Reagan’s autobiography. Congressman Manzullo remarked that the book should be held on to and not sold on E-Bay. The book would not have left the Manzullo household had he seen it first!

As the congressman left, he made sure to take along copies of the listing of LSTA grants in his district as well as the letters sent by those who couldn’t attend the program in person. I expect that his appreciation of what these grants can accomplish was significantly increased. A very successful advocacy effort on behalf of LSTA grants as well as a nice gesture of appreciation for the congressman’s support in the past.

Grant News

Grants for digital projects
HASTAC Initiative/MacArthur Foundation Digital Media and Learning Competition. Innovation Awards ($100,000-$250,000) and Knowledge-Networking Awards ($30,000-$75,000).
Deadline: October 15. See http://www.dmlcompetition.net.

NEH Digital Humanities Start-Up Grants. $5,000-$50,000. Deadline: October 16. See http://www.neh.gov/grants/guidelines/digitalhumanitiesstartup.html

Heinemann-Raintree Grants for Schools
Heinemann-Raintree is sponsoring “Making the Non-Fiction Connection” Grant to recognize and reward extraordinary educational programs that promote use of series non-fiction and enhance non-fiction literacy. Winning schools will receive books valued at up to $5,000.
The application deadline is Oct. 1st.
See http://www.heinemannraintree.com/grant.asp for details.

Just So You Know

More book titles published in U.S. in 2006
For those thinking that books are a declining medium, R.R. Bowker reports that new titles increased to 291,500 in 2006 up 3% from the previous year. This upward trend has existed 8 of the last 9 years. The bigger increase was in adult titles which were up 17% from 2005. Biographies increased 15% while computer books declined by 11%.

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.