New to the Florida Library Association? The New Members Round Table is a member group just for you. If you're a new member - or if the 2013 annual conference will be your first - join this group. FLA members can add this member group to their membership. Just log in to your account here.
Plan now to attend the 2013 FLA annual conference to be held May 1-3 at the Hilton Orlando.
Faye Roberts
FLA Executive Director
Friday, August 31, 2012
Monday, January 12, 2009
Workshop on LSTA Grants
The State Library and Archives of Florida is pleased to announce an online workshop that will help eligible agencies with the preparation of Library Services and Technology Act grant applications for the 2009 cycle. Dorothy Frank and Marian Deeney from the State Library and Archives of Florida will provide an overview of the LSTA guidelines and application process.
Topics to be covered include:
o eligibility requirements for the LSTA grant program
o timeline for the LSTA grant process
o grant categories
o components of a proposal
o the LSTA Toolkit
Workshop dates are as follows:
January 16 10:00 a.m.
January 20 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.
January 29 10:00 a.m.
February 3 10:00 a.m.
Please register online at http://dlis.dos.state.fl.us/workshops/.
For more information, please contact Dorothy Frank in the Office of Community Development at (850) 245-6631 or dafrank@dos.state.fl.us.
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
FLA Conference 2009 - New Members Orientation
The New Members Orientation session will be taking place at the FLA 2009 Conference. This is a great opportunity for you to meet the present and incoming president as well as fellow colleagues.
Please join us at 8:00 a.m. on Wednesday May 6, 2009 in the Palm Beach Room of the Doubletree Hotel at the entrance to Universal Orlando. We look forward to meeting you!
Please check to official Florida Library Conference Website for more information on the upcoming conference.
http://www.flalib.org
Please join us at 8:00 a.m. on Wednesday May 6, 2009 in the Palm Beach Room of the Doubletree Hotel at the entrance to Universal Orlando. We look forward to meeting you!
Please check to official Florida Library Conference Website for more information on the upcoming conference.
http://www.flalib.org
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
FLA Conference Program
The FLA Conference Program is available. Visit http://www.flalib.org/conference_2008/2008_FLA_Registration_Program.pdf to download a PDF version of the program.
While you're creating your conference schedule, don't forget to include the following NMRT-sponsored and supported sessions:
Wednesday, April 23
Thursday, April 24
While you're creating your conference schedule, don't forget to include the following NMRT-sponsored and supported sessions:
Wednesday, April 23
- New Member’s Orientation
Speakers: Mercedes Clement, Cheryl Davis, Charlie Parker, Tracey Reed
Program Synopsis: New FLA members and conference first timers get oriented to the Association and to the ins and outs of an FLA conference.
Time: 8:30 – 9:30 AM
Where: Blue Heron
Thursday, April 24
- Increasing Your Library’s Street Cred: Reaching out to 20 and 30 Somethings
Speakers: Rachael Cathcart, Adam Davis, Lisa Kreutter, Christopher Leary, Jennifer Rodrick, Young
Program Synopsis: Get tips and tools on using marketing, technology, space and furnishings, programming, and collection development to bring this age group into the library and turn them into supporters and funders.
Time: 1:30 – 3 PM
Where: Bird Key
- Get it Write: Make your Résumé Work for You!
Speakers: Cheryl Davis, Tracey Reed
Program Synopsis: Bring your résumé for a critique, and find out what employers look for.
Time: 3:30 – 5 PM
Where: Board Room
Wednesday, January 9, 2008
New FLA award announced
The Florida Library Association is pleased to announce the creation of the “Maria Chavez-Hernandez Libraries Change Peoples’ Lives Award.” Named in honor of Florida State University’s Dr. Maria Chavez-Hernandez, this award will recognize an individual library employee or group of employees who have made a demonstrably positive and big difference in the lives of Florida’s library users.
Nominations are open to all types of libraries, library organizations and library associations in the state, all types of programs and services may be nominated. Of special focus will be programs and services that provide outreach to immigrant and/or underserved populations; other types of services can also be nominated. All programs/services must be in place for at least two years.
The Florida Library Association is proud to create this award in honor of Dr. Chavez-Hernandez and to perpetuate the dynamic spirit of her work in expanding the opportunities of information access to underserved and immigrant populations.
Dr. Chavez-Hernandez received her Ph.D. in Library Science and Information Studies from Florida State University in 1991. She is responsible for a large body of works focusing on Library and Information Services in the Caribbean region, and has provided many resources and programming on the specific Library and Information needs of Latin American immigrants and their families.
The deadline to submit nominations for this award is February 15. Nominating forms can be found by visiting the FLA home page at http://www.flalib.org and clicking on the "Awards" link at the top of the page.
Nominations are open to all types of libraries, library organizations and library associations in the state, all types of programs and services may be nominated. Of special focus will be programs and services that provide outreach to immigrant and/or underserved populations; other types of services can also be nominated. All programs/services must be in place for at least two years.
The Florida Library Association is proud to create this award in honor of Dr. Chavez-Hernandez and to perpetuate the dynamic spirit of her work in expanding the opportunities of information access to underserved and immigrant populations.
Dr. Chavez-Hernandez received her Ph.D. in Library Science and Information Studies from Florida State University in 1991. She is responsible for a large body of works focusing on Library and Information Services in the Caribbean region, and has provided many resources and programming on the specific Library and Information needs of Latin American immigrants and their families.
The deadline to submit nominations for this award is February 15. Nominating forms can be found by visiting the FLA home page at http://www.flalib.org and clicking on the "Awards" link at the top of the page.
Tuesday, January 8, 2008
Student Scholarships Available for 2008 FLA Conference
The FLA Scholarship Committee is pleased to open the application process for three graduate scholarships:
University of South Florida Scholarship
Florida State University Scholarship
Minority Scholarship
Application forms and submission requirements are available at http://www.flalib.org by clicking on the “2008 Scholarship Applications” link.
Scholarships to be awarded during the Annual Conference, April 22-25.
University of South Florida Scholarship
Florida State University Scholarship
Minority Scholarship
Application forms and submission requirements are available at http://www.flalib.org by clicking on the “2008 Scholarship Applications” link.
Scholarships to be awarded during the Annual Conference, April 22-25.
Monday, January 7, 2008
FLA scholarship baskets
** Reposted from the FLA listserv **
The Florida Library Association conference is just around the corner, and it's time for everyone to think about their basket creations for the scholarship fundraiser event. This year's event promises to be lots of fun at the Tradewinds Resort in St. Pete Beach. So...get your ideas rolling and come up with some fun, creative baskets. Baskets can be donated by organizations, Friends' groups, library staff, individuals, anyone...
Some ideas for themes include:
*Gardening *Cooking *Cat/Dog Lover *Handyman (woman) Basket *Book Lover *Vacation *Beach Basket *Spa Basket *Foot-care Basket *Disney *Music *Movie *Chocolate *Homemade crafts (i.e., needlework)
Ok, you get the idea - sky's the limit - Have fun!!!
The simple form soon will be available soon on FLA's website http://www.flalib.org
Contact Mary C. Brown, Union County Public Library Director at marycb@neflin.org with any questions.
The Florida Library Association conference is just around the corner, and it's time for everyone to think about their basket creations for the scholarship fundraiser event. This year's event promises to be lots of fun at the Tradewinds Resort in St. Pete Beach. So...get your ideas rolling and come up with some fun, creative baskets. Baskets can be donated by organizations, Friends' groups, library staff, individuals, anyone...
Some ideas for themes include:
*Gardening *Cooking *Cat/Dog Lover *Handyman (woman) Basket *Book Lover *Vacation *Beach Basket *Spa Basket *Foot-care Basket *Disney *Music *Movie *Chocolate *Homemade crafts (i.e., needlework)
Ok, you get the idea - sky's the limit - Have fun!!!
The simple form soon will be available soon on FLA's website http://www.flalib.org
Contact Mary C. Brown, Union County Public Library Director at marycb@neflin.org with any questions.
Thursday, December 20, 2007
FLA Joins Facebook
The Florida Library Association now has a group page on Facebook, http://www.facebook.com. While you're adding FLA to your group of friends, don't forget to join the FLA NMRT's group too!
FLA’s Facebook page will provide association members with a quick and easy way to network and keep up with what's going on in the library world in Florida. Be sure to check out FLA's other communication tools-- FLA Blog and FLA Listservs-- as well
FLA’s Facebook page will provide association members with a quick and easy way to network and keep up with what's going on in the library world in Florida. Be sure to check out FLA's other communication tools-- FLA Blog and FLA Listservs-- as well
National Library Legislative Day
Registration is open now for National Library Legislative Day 2008! Come to Washington, DC, and join hundreds of library supporters from across the country visiting Members of Congress. Share stories about libraries in your community and tell your Congressmen and women about the needs and accomplishments of those libraries.
For more information on registration and accommodations, please visit http://www.ala.org/ala/washoff/washevents/nlld/nlld2008.cfm.
Please send your registration forms and fees for National Library Legislative Day NLLD) to your state coordinator, who will forward the materials to the ALA Washington Office. The registration form can be printed from the NLLD website.
o State Coordinator information can be found at the NLLD State Coordinators page.
o Remember to include your registration fee in the amount of $20.00 with your registration form. Make checks payable to: National Library Legislative Day.
For more information on registration and accommodations, please visit http://www.ala.org/ala/washoff/washevents/nlld/nlld2008.cfm.
Please send your registration forms and fees for National Library Legislative Day NLLD) to your state coordinator, who will forward the materials to the ALA Washington Office. The registration form can be printed from the NLLD website.
o State Coordinator information can be found at the NLLD State Coordinators page.
o Remember to include your registration fee in the amount of $20.00 with your registration form. Make checks payable to: National Library Legislative Day.
Monday, December 10, 2007
FLA Executive Director Search
The Florida Library Association seeks an executive director to manage Association activities, membership, and finances and to establish and manage an FLA office. The Association has an annual budget of approximately $300,000 and will have 1.5 FTE when the new office opens after the Executive Director is hired. The current Executive Director contracts to provide services and will be available to assist during the transition from contracted association management to employees working in an FLA leased office. The transition will be complete no later than June 30, 2008.
The Association prefers that the new FLA office be located in Tallahassee, Florida although other locations in the state will be considered depending on the preferences of Executive Director candidates.
Primary responsibilities include Board support; contract management (lobbyist, conference management, Web services, publication editors, and others); conference and other event planning; assuring compliance with federal and state requirements for 501c3 non-profit corporations; collaboration with and assistance to elected officers, committees and member groups; advocacy, including registering as a lobbyist with the Florida executive and legislative branches of state government; public relations; and membership and organization development.
Visit http://www.flalib.org/executive_director_search.html for more information.
Supervision and Reporting
The Florida Library Association Executive Director is an employee of the Association Executive Board. The President is the immediate supervisor of the Executive Director.
Duties & Responsibilities
1. Serve as an ex officio, non-voting member on all committees.
2. Advance and support the interests of Association membership through efficient and effective leadership of Association affairs and by enabling members to be effective in their roles within FLA.
3. Form strong partnerships with other library-related organizations in Florida, with the American Library Association, and with organizations interested in libraries, literacy, and freedom of access to information.
4. Serve as an ex officio, non-voting member of the Association Executive Board, prepare Board meeting materials, assure that meeting logistics are arranged and announced, and assist the President in developing Board meeting agendas.
5. Manage and account for Association income, expenditures, and savings/investment, providing quarterly reports to the Treasurer. Coordinate approval of expenditures with the Treasurer and keep that officer and the President informed of the financial condition of the Association at least monthly. With the Treasurer, prepare an annual financial report for the Annual Business Meeting.
6. Hire, train and supervise Association employees.
7. Assure availability of an Association office location that is readily available to members via telephone and electronic communication.
8. Increase membership through an organized plan of recruitment and retention activities. Assist the Membership Committee in coordinating and implementing an effective program of membership development and services. Manage maintenance of an accurate, up-to-date membership database and provide regular membership reports to the Executive Board.
9. Recruit and educate new Association leaders. Assist the Leadership Development Committee in coordinating and implementing an effective program designed to cultivate new Association leaders. Assist the Vice-President/President Elect in identifying members to serve on committee each year and the Nominating Committee in identifying officer candidates for annual elections. Present formal orientation programs for new Board members, committee chairs, and member group leaders each year.
10. Facilitate recognition of and compliance with leadership responsibilities and deadlines of the Association. Provide one-to-one coaching and serve as a resource to answer questions and provide continuity for Association leadership.
11. Coordinate provision of an annual conference with exhibits by recommending a conference management firm to the Executive Board and working closely with the contracted firm throughout conference planning and the conference itself. Assist the Conference Committee in developing a conference program of events and programs and serve as liaison between the committee and the conference management firm.
12. Initiate and carry out fundraising activities to increase funds available for library advocacy and member services.
13. Represent the interests of Association leadership and members by contributing to long-range planning, both strategic and operational. Provide the Executive Board with a quarterly update of progress towards the goals and objectives of the annual strategic plan.
14. Evaluate the efficiency and effectiveness of Association and FLA office activities, programs, services, and methods. In conjunction with the Planning Committee, recommend the continuance, enhancement, or discontinuance of Association activities.
15. Serve as spokesperson for the association under the direction of the President.
16. Coordinate Association communications. Manage the Web site, electronic email lists, and print and electronic publications and blogs. Assure that all communications are timely and fit within FLA’s mission. Maintain an effective internal and external public relations program to assure an informed membership, inform potential members and the media, Florida legislature, other associations and industry groups about FLA.
17. With the Secretary, assure accuracy of Executive Board minutes and other documents to be maintained in the FLA archive.
18. Develop and make available to membership an annual programmatic report.
19. Provide effective leadership in working with the Executive Board, FLA employees and contracted service providers, FLA units, and membership in the development and implementation of policies furthering the mission, goals, and objectives of FLA as these are specified in the annual FLA Strategic Plan.
20. Maintain the FLA Policy Manual and interpret and administer policies. Work effectively with the Executive Board to develop, implement, revise, and evaluate policy.
21. Maintain regular contact with committee and member group leadership to be aware of their activities and provide information to and from the Executive Board. Encourage Association leaders to communicate regularly with their constituents.
22. Attend ALA Mid-Winter and Annual Conferences as funds allow, participating in the meetings and activities of ICLAE and the ALA Chapter Relations Office.
23. Attend library-related functions across the state as funds allow.
Education and Experience Requirements
1. Education – minimum of an ALA accredited Master’s degree in librarianship/information services or business administration/management or other, related field
2. Experience – minimum of five years experience managing a library or non-profit membership association
Other Requirements
Physical – must be able to: stand and sit for a period of up to two hours; proficiency in spoken and written English; lift objects of up to 20 pounds in weight;
License –: must have a Florida driver’s license within two weeks of employment;
Skills: ability to drive an automobile; ability to effectively use Microsoft Office computer software products, Internet searching methods, email software such as Microsoft Outlook or Outlook Express, and Quick Books accounting software
Other –: must own an insured automobile or have access to an insured automobile that can be used for Association-related travel
The Association prefers that the new FLA office be located in Tallahassee, Florida although other locations in the state will be considered depending on the preferences of Executive Director candidates.
Primary responsibilities include Board support; contract management (lobbyist, conference management, Web services, publication editors, and others); conference and other event planning; assuring compliance with federal and state requirements for 501c3 non-profit corporations; collaboration with and assistance to elected officers, committees and member groups; advocacy, including registering as a lobbyist with the Florida executive and legislative branches of state government; public relations; and membership and organization development.
Visit http://www.flalib.org/executive_director_search.html for more information.
Supervision and Reporting
The Florida Library Association Executive Director is an employee of the Association Executive Board. The President is the immediate supervisor of the Executive Director.
Duties & Responsibilities
1. Serve as an ex officio, non-voting member on all committees.
2. Advance and support the interests of Association membership through efficient and effective leadership of Association affairs and by enabling members to be effective in their roles within FLA.
3. Form strong partnerships with other library-related organizations in Florida, with the American Library Association, and with organizations interested in libraries, literacy, and freedom of access to information.
4. Serve as an ex officio, non-voting member of the Association Executive Board, prepare Board meeting materials, assure that meeting logistics are arranged and announced, and assist the President in developing Board meeting agendas.
5. Manage and account for Association income, expenditures, and savings/investment, providing quarterly reports to the Treasurer. Coordinate approval of expenditures with the Treasurer and keep that officer and the President informed of the financial condition of the Association at least monthly. With the Treasurer, prepare an annual financial report for the Annual Business Meeting.
6. Hire, train and supervise Association employees.
7. Assure availability of an Association office location that is readily available to members via telephone and electronic communication.
8. Increase membership through an organized plan of recruitment and retention activities. Assist the Membership Committee in coordinating and implementing an effective program of membership development and services. Manage maintenance of an accurate, up-to-date membership database and provide regular membership reports to the Executive Board.
9. Recruit and educate new Association leaders. Assist the Leadership Development Committee in coordinating and implementing an effective program designed to cultivate new Association leaders. Assist the Vice-President/President Elect in identifying members to serve on committee each year and the Nominating Committee in identifying officer candidates for annual elections. Present formal orientation programs for new Board members, committee chairs, and member group leaders each year.
10. Facilitate recognition of and compliance with leadership responsibilities and deadlines of the Association. Provide one-to-one coaching and serve as a resource to answer questions and provide continuity for Association leadership.
11. Coordinate provision of an annual conference with exhibits by recommending a conference management firm to the Executive Board and working closely with the contracted firm throughout conference planning and the conference itself. Assist the Conference Committee in developing a conference program of events and programs and serve as liaison between the committee and the conference management firm.
12. Initiate and carry out fundraising activities to increase funds available for library advocacy and member services.
13. Represent the interests of Association leadership and members by contributing to long-range planning, both strategic and operational. Provide the Executive Board with a quarterly update of progress towards the goals and objectives of the annual strategic plan.
14. Evaluate the efficiency and effectiveness of Association and FLA office activities, programs, services, and methods. In conjunction with the Planning Committee, recommend the continuance, enhancement, or discontinuance of Association activities.
15. Serve as spokesperson for the association under the direction of the President.
16. Coordinate Association communications. Manage the Web site, electronic email lists, and print and electronic publications and blogs. Assure that all communications are timely and fit within FLA’s mission. Maintain an effective internal and external public relations program to assure an informed membership, inform potential members and the media, Florida legislature, other associations and industry groups about FLA.
17. With the Secretary, assure accuracy of Executive Board minutes and other documents to be maintained in the FLA archive.
18. Develop and make available to membership an annual programmatic report.
19. Provide effective leadership in working with the Executive Board, FLA employees and contracted service providers, FLA units, and membership in the development and implementation of policies furthering the mission, goals, and objectives of FLA as these are specified in the annual FLA Strategic Plan.
20. Maintain the FLA Policy Manual and interpret and administer policies. Work effectively with the Executive Board to develop, implement, revise, and evaluate policy.
21. Maintain regular contact with committee and member group leadership to be aware of their activities and provide information to and from the Executive Board. Encourage Association leaders to communicate regularly with their constituents.
22. Attend ALA Mid-Winter and Annual Conferences as funds allow, participating in the meetings and activities of ICLAE and the ALA Chapter Relations Office.
23. Attend library-related functions across the state as funds allow.
Education and Experience Requirements
1. Education – minimum of an ALA accredited Master’s degree in librarianship/information services or business administration/management or other, related field
2. Experience – minimum of five years experience managing a library or non-profit membership association
Other Requirements
Physical – must be able to: stand and sit for a period of up to two hours; proficiency in spoken and written English; lift objects of up to 20 pounds in weight;
License –: must have a Florida driver’s license within two weeks of employment;
Skills: ability to drive an automobile; ability to effectively use Microsoft Office computer software products, Internet searching methods, email software such as Microsoft Outlook or Outlook Express, and Quick Books accounting software
Other –: must own an insured automobile or have access to an insured automobile that can be used for Association-related travel
Thursday, November 29, 2007
FLA press conference
The Florida Library Association held a press conference this morning as part of their Campaign to Convince Floridians of the Value of Public Libraries. We had good attendance, a number of print and TV press folks, so you may be hearing about it in your area. The press release below is going out today from Herrle Communications, the PR firm that is assisting us with the campaign. If you see anything in your paper or on your TV about this please let Ruth O'Donnell, FLA Executive Director, know by sending an e-mail to flaexecutivedirector@comcast.net.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: November 29, 2007
CONTACT: Jennifer Abdelnour: jennifer@herrle.com
Doing more with less, Florida public libraries continue to provide lifeline to essential services
Libraries are portals to technology, government and literacy
TALLAHASSEE -- Advocates for Florida's public libraries came together today to promote the wide range of essential services they provide to Floridians, as well as call for their continued funding and support. Speaking from the steps of the LeRoy Collins Leon County Public Library, public library experts underscored the high value Floridians place on public libraries and the many unsung resources they offer to millions, including free access to information technology, government services and literacy development.
"Florida's public libraries are not a luxury," said Florida Library Association (FLA) president Charlie Parker. "Floridians of all ages treasure their local libraries as vital community connections and resources for fostering not only the literacy of our children, but our adults, as well," he added.
Some of the most popular public services available at libraries today are free computer usage and access to information technology via high-speed Internet connections.
"For the millions of Floridians without a computer or Internet access at home, public libraries' connectivity is a necessity," said John Carlo Bertot, Ph.D., Professor and Associate Director of the Information Use Management and Policy Institute at Florida State University.
Bertot added, "Public libraries have also become agents of e-government by providing residents across the state with Internet access to local, state and federal services, some of which are available only online."
For instance, libraries and librarians provide direct assistance to those seeking information about how to apply for public assistance, file income taxes electronically, search for the perfect job, or how to become a U.S. citizen, among many other government services. In fact, both a national study and a survey of Florida's public library directors found that some state agencies routinely direct recipients without computer access to local libraries to obtain assistance in navigating agency Web sites, applying for government benefits and services or just to seek additional information.
"Library users and government agencies expect libraries to provide easy access to government services, despite a lack of additional funding or training," said Bertot.
Free year-round programming for youth is another example of vital public services Florida public libraries offer. This includes such resources as the Born to Read and Summer Library Programs, homework help, and story times and other school readiness and support programs. These services help develop new readers and library users by fostering the love of reading for reading's sake.
"Research has shown the best predictor of children's summer learning loss or gain is whether or not the child reads during the summer," said Carole Fiore, independent Training and Library Consultant. "Studies indicate that children who participate in summer reading programs increase both their vocabulary and reading comprehension scores," Fiore added.
In addition to the lifeline they extend to communities on a day-to-day basis, many libraries have also proven crucial to disaster recovery.
Public libraries have served as temporary shelters for hurricane survivors and emergency personnel, as communication centers and often as the only places with working Internet connections and phone lines. Disaster victims use these services to search for missing family, check weather and neighborhood conditions and to complete Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and insurance claim forms online.
Despite the extensive information and resources Florida public libraries offer, they remain a remarkably efficient government service.
According to the National Center for Education Statistics, Florida libraries serve the public at an average cost of $26.59 per person annually, which is 16 percent less than the national average for public library service.
Lean fiscal times, however, challenge this efficiency on a daily basis.
Many Florida public libraries are already experiencing shorter hours of operation, staff layoffs, hiring freezes and a reduction of available materials. Additional budget cuts could result in even shorter library hours or branch closings and deeper cuts to personnel, materials and services, such as bookmobiles, outreach to senior centers and services for people with disabilities.
"Clearly, decreased funding for libraries mean cuts to essential services," Parker noted. "Future funding cuts will only further jeopardize the ability of public libraries to serve the needs of all Floridians," he added.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: November 29, 2007
CONTACT: Jennifer Abdelnour: jennifer@herrle.com
Doing more with less, Florida public libraries continue to provide lifeline to essential services
Libraries are portals to technology, government and literacy
TALLAHASSEE -- Advocates for Florida's public libraries came together today to promote the wide range of essential services they provide to Floridians, as well as call for their continued funding and support. Speaking from the steps of the LeRoy Collins Leon County Public Library, public library experts underscored the high value Floridians place on public libraries and the many unsung resources they offer to millions, including free access to information technology, government services and literacy development.
"Florida's public libraries are not a luxury," said Florida Library Association (FLA) president Charlie Parker. "Floridians of all ages treasure their local libraries as vital community connections and resources for fostering not only the literacy of our children, but our adults, as well," he added.
Some of the most popular public services available at libraries today are free computer usage and access to information technology via high-speed Internet connections.
"For the millions of Floridians without a computer or Internet access at home, public libraries' connectivity is a necessity," said John Carlo Bertot, Ph.D., Professor and Associate Director of the Information Use Management and Policy Institute at Florida State University.
Bertot added, "Public libraries have also become agents of e-government by providing residents across the state with Internet access to local, state and federal services, some of which are available only online."
For instance, libraries and librarians provide direct assistance to those seeking information about how to apply for public assistance, file income taxes electronically, search for the perfect job, or how to become a U.S. citizen, among many other government services. In fact, both a national study and a survey of Florida's public library directors found that some state agencies routinely direct recipients without computer access to local libraries to obtain assistance in navigating agency Web sites, applying for government benefits and services or just to seek additional information.
"Library users and government agencies expect libraries to provide easy access to government services, despite a lack of additional funding or training," said Bertot.
Free year-round programming for youth is another example of vital public services Florida public libraries offer. This includes such resources as the Born to Read and Summer Library Programs, homework help, and story times and other school readiness and support programs. These services help develop new readers and library users by fostering the love of reading for reading's sake.
"Research has shown the best predictor of children's summer learning loss or gain is whether or not the child reads during the summer," said Carole Fiore, independent Training and Library Consultant. "Studies indicate that children who participate in summer reading programs increase both their vocabulary and reading comprehension scores," Fiore added.
In addition to the lifeline they extend to communities on a day-to-day basis, many libraries have also proven crucial to disaster recovery.
Public libraries have served as temporary shelters for hurricane survivors and emergency personnel, as communication centers and often as the only places with working Internet connections and phone lines. Disaster victims use these services to search for missing family, check weather and neighborhood conditions and to complete Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and insurance claim forms online.
Despite the extensive information and resources Florida public libraries offer, they remain a remarkably efficient government service.
According to the National Center for Education Statistics, Florida libraries serve the public at an average cost of $26.59 per person annually, which is 16 percent less than the national average for public library service.
Lean fiscal times, however, challenge this efficiency on a daily basis.
Many Florida public libraries are already experiencing shorter hours of operation, staff layoffs, hiring freezes and a reduction of available materials. Additional budget cuts could result in even shorter library hours or branch closings and deeper cuts to personnel, materials and services, such as bookmobiles, outreach to senior centers and services for people with disabilities.
"Clearly, decreased funding for libraries mean cuts to essential services," Parker noted. "Future funding cuts will only further jeopardize the ability of public libraries to serve the needs of all Floridians," he added.
Poster Session Applications Sought for FLA 2008
Applications are being accepted for poster session presentations at the 2008 Florida Library Association Annual Conference (http://www.flalib.org/conference_2008.html).
Application forms and related information are available at the following website:
http://library.ucf.edu/Presentations/FLA2008/PosterSession.htm
Applications also may be e-mailed to Matt Torrence, Chair of the FLA Continuing Education Committee, at torrence@lib.usf.edu. Please be sure to provide the poster title, author's name, institutional address, e- mail address, and a 150 word abstract.
The deadline for submitting applications is Friday, February 22, 2008. Applicants will be notified by Friday, March 7, 2008 concerning the outcome of the review process. Poster sessions will be presented April 23 - 25, 2008 at the conference, being held at the Tradewinds Resort in St. Petersburg.
Questions? Contact Matt Torrence at torrence@lib.usf.edu or by phone at (813) 974-2779.
**Please note that due to space restrictions, roundtable sessions are not being offered at the 2008 FLA Annual Conference.
Application forms and related information are available at the following website:
http://library.ucf.edu/Presentations/FLA2008/PosterSession.htm
Applications also may be e-mailed to Matt Torrence, Chair of the FLA Continuing Education Committee, at torrence@lib.usf.edu. Please be sure to provide the poster title, author's name, institutional address, e- mail address, and a 150 word abstract.
The deadline for submitting applications is Friday, February 22, 2008. Applicants will be notified by Friday, March 7, 2008 concerning the outcome of the review process. Poster sessions will be presented April 23 - 25, 2008 at the conference, being held at the Tradewinds Resort in St. Petersburg.
Questions? Contact Matt Torrence at torrence@lib.usf.edu or by phone at (813) 974-2779.
**Please note that due to space restrictions, roundtable sessions are not being offered at the 2008 FLA Annual Conference.
Tuesday, November 20, 2007
FLA Conference Teaser
2008 FLA Annual Conference and Exhibition preconference information is leaking out slowly. Check out this exciting opportunity!
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Think, Lead, & Manage like Today's Top Library Leaders!
The "best of the best" in library leadership share their insights and views on what it takes to be a leader in today's ever-changing social and economic environment. Developed at the Leadership Institute at Syracuse University, this preconference workshop gives participants the building blocks to recognize the traits and styles of leaders, sharpen existing skills, and master new strengths. It emphasizes the principles of superior leadership. Moreover, this workshop offers people the practical tools and techniques to become effective leaders.
What You Can Expect…
- Identify your leadership orientation.
- Learn how leaders master change.
- Increase your capacity to lead and manage.
- Conduct a personal self-assessment in order to identify strengths and opportunities for improvement.
Presenter David Bendekovic has more than 25 years of experience building and growing commercial software, wireless, Internet, and telecommunications companies. David is recognized as a skilled training and development specialist with first-hand knowledge of what it takes to be successful. During the past three years, over 4,000 people representing over 1,500 organizations have attended his leadership, marketing, and customer service workshops. David is vice-president of Polaris Library Systems. He also serves as a program director for the Leadership Institute at Syracuse University, teaches at the University's Whitman School of Management, and serves as an advisor/consultant for student agencies at Cornell University.
Aspiring library leaders, you don't want to miss this FLA preconference!
Tradewinds Beach Resorts and Conference Center, St. Pete Beach, Florida
April 22, 2008
Visit http://www.fiu.edu/~hammills/FLA/leaders.pdf for more information.
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Think, Lead, & Manage like Today's Top Library Leaders!
The "best of the best" in library leadership share their insights and views on what it takes to be a leader in today's ever-changing social and economic environment. Developed at the Leadership Institute at Syracuse University, this preconference workshop gives participants the building blocks to recognize the traits and styles of leaders, sharpen existing skills, and master new strengths. It emphasizes the principles of superior leadership. Moreover, this workshop offers people the practical tools and techniques to become effective leaders.
What You Can Expect…
- Identify your leadership orientation.
- Learn how leaders master change.
- Increase your capacity to lead and manage.
- Conduct a personal self-assessment in order to identify strengths and opportunities for improvement.
Presenter David Bendekovic has more than 25 years of experience building and growing commercial software, wireless, Internet, and telecommunications companies. David is recognized as a skilled training and development specialist with first-hand knowledge of what it takes to be successful. During the past three years, over 4,000 people representing over 1,500 organizations have attended his leadership, marketing, and customer service workshops. David is vice-president of Polaris Library Systems. He also serves as a program director for the Leadership Institute at Syracuse University, teaches at the University's Whitman School of Management, and serves as an advisor/consultant for student agencies at Cornell University.
Aspiring library leaders, you don't want to miss this FLA preconference!
Tradewinds Beach Resorts and Conference Center, St. Pete Beach, Florida
April 22, 2008
Visit http://www.fiu.edu/~hammills/FLA/leaders.pdf for more information.
Friday, November 16, 2007
FLA 2008 Membership Renewal Notice
It's time to renew your FLA membership! And now, it's even easier to do so! Visit http://www.regonline.com/Checkin.asp?EventId=114714 to renew your membership online, or go to http://www.flalib.org/PDFdocuments/MEMBERSHIP%20APPLICATION%202008.pdf to print a mail-in renewal form. Regardless of the method you choose, don't forget to select the New Members Roundtable as one of your Member Group affiliations.
One more thing-- don't forget that students can get joint FLA / ALA membership for only $32!! Take advantage of the savings while you still can!
One more thing-- don't forget that students can get joint FLA / ALA membership for only $32!! Take advantage of the savings while you still can!
Florida Libraries: Call for articles
Article proposals are being accepted for the spring 2008 issue of Florida Libraries. The spring issue is not a themed issue, so articles may be on any topic related to Florida libraries or on the theme for the 2008 FLA Annual Conference, "Celebrate the Leader in You."
Proposals for articles should be submitted to Gloria Colvin (gpcolvin@yahoo.com) by December 1 using the proposal form at http://www.flalib.org/forms_pdf/Form_18.pdf. Articles are due by January 7, 2008.
Guidelines for publishing in Florida Libraries are available at http://www.flalib.org/pub_Guidlines.html.
Proposals for articles should be submitted to Gloria Colvin (gpcolvin@yahoo.com) by December 1 using the proposal form at http://www.flalib.org/forms_pdf/Form_18.pdf. Articles are due by January 7, 2008.
Guidelines for publishing in Florida Libraries are available at http://www.flalib.org/pub_Guidlines.html.
Thursday, November 8, 2007
Footnotes
The latest issues of Footnotes, the newsletter of the ALA NMRT, is available at http://www.ala.org/ala/nmrt/footnotes/november2007a/footnotesnov2007.htm.
Highlights include:
Articles: "How Valuable Are You?" and "The Classroom Meets the Real World"
Regular Features: "Job Talk Column: Making the Most of the Resume Review Service"
Scholarship Announcements
Highlights include:
Articles: "How Valuable Are You?" and "The Classroom Meets the Real World"
Regular Features: "Job Talk Column: Making the Most of the Resume Review Service"
Scholarship Announcements
Thursday, November 1, 2007
FLA Legislative Platform Summary Available
The FLA Legislative Platform summary is available at http://www.flalib.org/PDFdocuments/FLA%20Leg%20Platform%202008.pdf. Details on the issues in the platform will be available soon.
Public library folks will want to read the section about State Aid to Libraries - the amount FLA is requesting from the legislature has changed from the $10 M FLA asked for in the last several years. We are hoping this approach of tying increases to a four year goal (Governor's term of office) that relates to increases in the cost of living will be better received than the $10 M request has been.
Public library folks will want to read the section about State Aid to Libraries - the amount FLA is requesting from the legislature has changed from the $10 M FLA asked for in the last several years. We are hoping this approach of tying increases to a four year goal (Governor's term of office) that relates to increases in the cost of living will be better received than the $10 M request has been.
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
ALA 2008 Scholarship Online Application Now Available
Scholarship money is available for future librarians! The American Library Association (ALA) has more than $300,000 for students who are studying library science or school library media at the master's degree level. Scholarships typically range from $2,500 to $6,500 per student per year. The application and instructions are available on-line at www.ala.org/scholarships. The application deadline is March 1.
There are many types of scholarships available for the study of librarianship. These include scholarships for students who are interested in Children's Librarianship, School Librarianship, Youth Librarianship, Federal Librarianship, and Library Automation. In addition, there are also scholarships available for minorities, persons with disabilities and for people who are already employed in libraries but do not have an MLS.
To be considered for one of these scholarships, applicants must attend a masters program in library and information science that has been accredited by the ALA. Applicants interested in school library media must attend a program that meets ALA curriculum guidelines for the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE).
The scholarship process is open annually from October through March. For more information, visit www.ala.org/scholarships or call the ALA Scholarship Clearinghouse at 800-545-2433, ext. 4279.
There are many types of scholarships available for the study of librarianship. These include scholarships for students who are interested in Children's Librarianship, School Librarianship, Youth Librarianship, Federal Librarianship, and Library Automation. In addition, there are also scholarships available for minorities, persons with disabilities and for people who are already employed in libraries but do not have an MLS.
To be considered for one of these scholarships, applicants must attend a masters program in library and information science that has been accredited by the ALA. Applicants interested in school library media must attend a program that meets ALA curriculum guidelines for the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE).
The scholarship process is open annually from October through March. For more information, visit www.ala.org/scholarships or call the ALA Scholarship Clearinghouse at 800-545-2433, ext. 4279.
Wednesday, October 3, 2007
Upcoming Events
Check out these library events at a location near you:
Florida Association of College and Research Libraries (FACRL) Fall Program: October 26
Tampa Bay Library Consortium (TBLC) Annual Meeting: November 2
Southwest Florida Library Network (SWFLN) Annual Meeting: November 9
Southeast Florida Library Information Network (SEFLIN) Annual Meeting: November 16
Central Florida Library Consortium Annual Meeting: December 7
Florida Association of College and Research Libraries (FACRL) Fall Program: October 26
Tampa Bay Library Consortium (TBLC) Annual Meeting: November 2
Southwest Florida Library Network (SWFLN) Annual Meeting: November 9
Southeast Florida Library Information Network (SEFLIN) Annual Meeting: November 16
Central Florida Library Consortium Annual Meeting: December 7
Thursday, September 20, 2007
$50,000 Available through 2008 AASL Awards Program
More than $50,000 (yes! you read that correctly!) is available through the American Association of School Librarians' annual awards program. Eleven awards, grants and scholarships recognize and support outstanding contributions to the school library media field in a variety of categories, including leadership, reading, information technology and distinguished service to the profession. Visit the AASL website at http://www.ala.org/ala/aasl/aaslawards/aaslawards.cfm for more information.
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