Time to cut the cord? (or the bill?)

I thought this was interesting, since it mentions people going to the library because they've cut their internet access bill. Hmmm. Also the bit about the kid section being used more, as I've heard the complaint about people using (abusing?) the library as a day care joint. Here's da link....http://www.ajc.com/services/content/metro/stories/2009/03/14/recession_libraries_busy.html?cxtype=rss&cxsvc=7&cxcat=13

Libraries in Bosta

http://www.boston.com/bostonglobe/editorial_opinion/oped/articles/2009/01/03/the_library___a_recession_sanctuary/
Here's a little story about libraries in recessionary times in Boston. A few quotes are included from our illustrious President. Well, since "earmarks" have been banned, perhaps libraries will follow suit.

21st Century Librarian

This is a great video from the New York Times. The video was published on February 15, 2009 about a 21st Century Librarian named Stephanie Rosalia. Stephanie Rosalia is known at her school as the "information specialist."

http://video.nytimes.com/video/2009/02/15/arts/1194837851726/the-21st-century-librarian.html

Catloging

I am also taking the Cataloging Class this semster, and let me say that I have a new found respect for our library staff that spend their time cataloging all of the items that are available in a library and making sure that the average library patron can find what he or she is looking for. The online catalog makes it easy for the average user to find the information they need. Even with the aid of "copy cataloging" there is a lot of work that goes into the process.

Recycle batteries at County Libraries

Starting on January 8, 2009, all San Diego County libraries have joined the effort to make California eco-friendly by collecting used household batteries from the public free of charge as part of a pilot program. The County Department of Enviromental Health and County libraries are providing collection containers for household battery recycling in an effort to promote awareness of proper disposal. The pilot project is funded by a grant from the California Integrated Waste Management Board.
Household batteries are considered "universal waste" by the state. While less of a risk than other hazardous chemicals, universal waste can be toxic to the environment if not handled properly. Other universal wastes include used flourescent bulbs, electronics and products containing mercury, such as thermometers.
For further information contact your local County Library

Tough Times

I clipped out an item in NC Time's Letters to Editor section, will bring it to class. Seems some guy in Encinitas believes our local libraries are declining in quality.
With regard to the display....I could not see how to contact NCTD regarding a few railroad spikes. I did see that Bill Horn is on the board of directors, so I e-mailed him. No response yet. What a surprise!

Libraries are hurting for funds and yet they are being creative in ways that does not hurt their pocketbook. The N.Y. public library held an event that provided a service to it's customers to help them in this downturned economy. I find it very heartening to know that libraries are still trying to provide the best service possible under very trying conditions.

The New York Public Library hosted a job-search event with Vault.com "Officials at both Vault.com and the public library say they saw a need for this event, and they're changing the way they do business because job-seekers need them more than ever. " http://www.ny1.com/content/ny1_living/92959/job-search-events-prove-important-tool-for-many/Default.aspx

Searching through the Internet to see what kind of response the california government was enacting towards the plight of public libraries I found a site from concerned citizens from the city of Salinas (Santa Cruz) who wrote a letter to the governor asking for help. http://santacruz.indymedia.org/newswire/display/17209/index.php