This year’s theme is:  New Tools for New Generations:  Viable Tools for Effective Student Learning.

First day guest speaker will be Buffy Hamilton, the “Unquiet Librarian.”  Buffy is the school library media specialist at Creekview High School in Canton, GA.  The second day will once again be devoted to children and young adult authors. 

Once again, you will have the opportunity to enroll in graduate credit (1 credit hour).

More information about registration, enrollment and programs will be announced very soon on listservs and on SLK News.

We hope you will put these dates on your calendar NOW and plan to register as soon as possible. Registration will be capped at 120.

If you have questions or concerns, please contact Mirah Dow at mdow@emporia.ed

Why do some small towns thrive while others dwindle away to clusters of abandoned buildings? Author Richard Wood, who grew up in rural Kansas, wanted to find the answer to that question, and in doing so, identified trends that spelled the end for many small communities. The rapid growth of transportation, the decline of the family farm, and the loss of a railroad hub are major causes of decline. But such events do not always spell failure. Some towns have survived through remarkable planning. Wood cites communities which have formed their own private schools, attracting both teachers and students from other areas. And he speaks of admirable efforts that have lured new industries to rural areas.

Wood enlivens his book with accounts from actual Kansas communities. He cites the declining population of Ellsworth County, for example, a direct result of the movement away from family farming. But Wood also describes the success of the citizens of Plainville, who having lost most of their local businesses, contacted Chuck Comeau and convinced him to set up a manufacturing center for quality home furnishings on their dying main street.

Wood has done an admirable job of researching his material. Fascinating tales of small Kansas communities offer a drama which appeals to any Kansan concerned about the fate of the state. This is insightful reading for anyone concerned about the future of rural America.

A video and picture gallery from the Richard Wood’s lecture at the Dole Institute on June 16, 2009 is available at the Institute web site: http://www.doleinstitute.org/video/.

If you would like to purchase this book, please consider ordering from one of the Kansas Center for the Book Affiliates (http://www.kcfb.info/notable/): Book Kansas!, Claflin Books, Town Crier, Watermark Books.

This list includes online programs in real time. For information on providers of self-paced courses and tutorials, please go to: http://ks.webjunction.org/685/-/articles/content/81570648

February 9 – 10:30 AM - 5:00 PM, Central Time
Technology Essentials 2010: WebJunction Online Conference

Join WebJunction and its partner states for a two-day online conference.
Tuesday’s Programs include:
Building Digital Community: Arizona Memory Project
Learning When There’s No Time (or Money) to Learn
The Planning Puzzle: Integrating your Strategic Plan and your Technology Plan
Technology Planning with TechAtlas for Libraries
M&M: Maximum Marketing/Minimum Investment

For more information and to register for this program, visit: http://www.webjunction.org/conferences/articles/content/86891033

February 9 – 12:00 – 1:00 PM, Central Time
Getting the most out of vendor partnerships and negotiations (SirsiDynix Institute)

Learn how to initiate and strengthen partnerships with vendors and content service providers.

For more information and to register for this program, visit: http://www.sirsidynixinstitute.com/

February 9 – 2:00 – 3:00 PM, Central Time
Webcast: Gadgets and Tools and Apps, Oh My! (Library Journal Webinar)

It’s not easy to keep up with new technology. By the time you’ve learned about the latest free application or cool gadget, you discover there are dozens of new tools that could help your patrons and library staff. We’ve invited two tech savvy librarians, one public and one academic, to share some of their favorites. The lineup includes updates on search, communication, and graphics applications, as well as fun and useful gadgets for the library.

For more information and to register for this program, visit: http://www.libraryjournal.com/webcasts/48747/Webcasts.html

February 10 – 10:30 AM –  5:00 PM, Central Time
Technology Essentials 2010: WebJunction Online Conference

Join WebJunction and its partner states for a two-day online conference.
Wednesday’s Programs include:
WordPress for Library 2.0 and Beyond
Implementing Reliable Instant Messaging at Your Library
Funding for Broadband: Indiana Connectivity
Library Grants 101
Helping Washington Libraries in Hard Times

For more information and to register for this program, visit: http://www.webjunction.org/conferences/articles/content/86891033

February 11 – 1:00 – 2:00 PM, Central Time
How Green Is My Library (OPAL)

How green is your library, anyway? While there is a broad spectrum of ecological sophistication within libraries nationwide and some regions are at the forefront of sustainable design and operations, others are just beginning or have yet to integrate materials recycling into their daily practice.

For more information and to register for this program, visit: http://www.opal-online.org/progschrono.htm

February 11 – 1:00 – 2:00 PM, Central Time
SLJTeen Spring 2010 Book Buzz Part 1 (School Library Journal Webinar)

Do you have teens clamoring for new books, more in a favorite series, or simply wanting something “good” to read? There is a bumper crop of new titles on the way for Spring and Summer release, and our three sponsoring publishers can’t wait to tell you all about these exciting books. While some may deal with classic teen issues such as dating, school, drugs, family and sex, others are more for fun, or simply informative.

For more information and to register for this program, visit: http://www.schoollibraryjournal.com/webcasts/48850/Webcasts.html

February 11 – 3:00 – 4:00 PM, Central Time
TechTrends: Midwinter 2010 (ALA TechSource Webinars)

A look back at ALA Midwinter meeting from a library technology perspective. Our panel of experts will analyze and discuss what they learned and what trends stood out at the conference.

For more information and to register for this program, visit: https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/357398507

February 12 – 11:00 AM- 12:00 PM, Central Time
Keys to Sustainable Digital Collaboratives (BCR)

Liz Bishoff will expand her Texas Library Journal article by providing specific strategies and examples for developing initial and on-going work and business plans, as well as guidance on negotiating the complex process of continuing funding and energy. Learn how to make digital collaboratives an effective means of increasing user access to critical information.

For more information and to register for this program, visit: http://www.bcr.org/training/schedule/programdetail.php?programid=433

February 16 – 1:00 – 2:00 PM, Central Time
FiLBeRt Roundtable Discussion: The Future of Libraries, Books, and Reading  (OPAL)

The shared futures of libraries, books, and reading seem very hazy at present. Join us for a monthly, lively, informal discussion of new developments, challenges, and opportunities. It’ll be a roundtable, so everyone is welcome to chime in. If it’s a FiLBeRt discussion, it’s going to be nutty!

For more information and to register for this program, visit: http://www.opal-online.org/progschrono.htm

February 16 – 2:00 – 3:00 PM, Central Time
Off The Shelf: Looking Beyond Libraries for Innovation and Inspiration (Infopeople Webinar)

This webinar will highlight places to look outside the library for creative points of view that can easily be adapted for libraries by using free resources to engage your community. Gain a fresh perspective on innovation and learn how other industries are dealing with it during tough times. At the end of this one-hour webinar, attendees will be familiar with *Non-library sources that provide insight to library issues, * How to use iTunes for library and/ or personal development, * At least two ways to engage the community in the library

For more information and to register for this program, visit: http://infopeople.org/training/webcasts/list

February 16 – 2:00 – 3:00 PM, Central Time
Library Laws for the Web Environment – The Mobile User(Infopeople Webinar)

Those attending this webinar will receive: * sample language for library signs regarding photography and videography  * guidance on when users need permission to post videos or pictures of library patrons * an update on legal status of porn in the library – on the users’ own devices  * information on what accessibility of library websites is required by law for people with disabilities.

This one-hour webinar will be of interest to library managers, anyone who works public service, those who create content for library social networking sites, and those looking for guidance regarding a variety of situations facing libraries using the mobile web and social networking.

For more information and to register for this program, visit: http://infopeople.org/training/webcasts/list

February 17 – 10:00 AM - 11:00 PM, Central Time
School’s Out @ Your Public Library: Program Ideas for After School (Texas State Library & Archives Commission)

Providing innovative programming for the school-age crowd during the school year can be a challenge, especially when libraries are competing with children’s busy after-school schedules. Participants in this webinar will learn how to provide fun and educational programs for children ages 5-12 that will have them running to your library after the school bell rings. Programs featured include Chess Club, Fun with Science, Art Explorers, Craft Time, and a KidTrekkers around the world cultural program.

For more information and to register for this program, visit: http://www.tsl.state.tx.us/ld/workshops/webinars/afterschoolprograms/index.html

February 17 – 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM
Maximizing Connections with “Mini” Conferences, WebJunction webinar at WebEx 

Join us for Maximizing Local Connections and Resources with “Mini” Conferences, the second in a series of webinars presented in collaboration with REFORMA. In these times of tight budgets and restricted travel, attending national conferences has become impossible for many library staff. Many local and regional agencies are joining forces to coordinate “mini” conferences that provide the means of connecting and collaborating locally, often providing a more focused and meaningful experience for attendees. Since 2005, the Northeast Chapter of REFORMA has joined forces with ALA ethnic caucuses to present a terrific conference where library workers
network, exchange ideas and listen to quality speakers.

For more information and to register for this program, go to: http://evanced.info/webjunction/evanced/eventcalendar.asp and click on event title
 

February 19, 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM, Central Time
Spreading the Word with Free Online Tools (BCR)

Once you’ve got great programming and new tools in place, just how do you let your patrons know about it? In times like these, we’re not exactly able to take out full page ads in the local paper, and even printing up a few hundred flyers may be out of the reach for our budgets. In this talk, we’ll explore ways you can use blogs and social networks like Twitter and Facebook to promote your library’s collection and programs.

For more information and to register for this program, visit: http://www.bcr.org/training/schedule/programdetail.php?programid=426

February 23, 24 and 25 – 2:00 – 4:00 PM, Central Time
Introduction to Digital Project Management – Online (BCR)

The purpose of this workshop is to introduce librarians and staff from other cultural heritage institutions to the range of issues associated with digitization of primary source materials.

This workshop provides an overview of key issues such as selection of materials, physical preservation, considerations for digitization including rights management, workflow considerations, and the resources required for responsible sustainability of digital collections.

This webinar is designed for staff from Llbraries and cultural heritage institutions that are in the planning stages of new digitization projects.

For more information and to register, go to: http://www.bcr.org/training/workshops/register.html

February 23, 1:00 – 2:00 PM, Central Time
Webcast: Mind Body Spirit Book Buzz  (Library Journal Webinar)

Libraries continue to see increased demand for Mind Body Spirit titles from their patrons. To help you with collection development in this area, Library Journal has brought together four publishers whose sole focus is to bring top quality Mind Body Spirit titles to your shelves.

For more information and to register for this program, visit: http://www.libraryjournal.com/webcasts/48747/Webcasts.html

February 24, 2:00 PM- 3:00PM, Central Time
National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (National Library of Medicine)

The National Network of Libraries of Medicine, MidContinental Region is presenting a new series of online classes. Once a month in 2010, liaisons will present information and exercises on various databases from the National Library of Medicine in an hour-long web conference. All classes are free and no registration is required. You will simply need 1) a computer with Internet access and 2) a phone (the system will call you – free of charge).

To join the webinar, go to: http://webmeeting.nih.gov/mcr on the day of the program.

February 25, 1:00 – 2:00 PM, Central Time
SLJTeen Spring 2010 Book Buzz Part 2 (School Library Journal Webinar)

Do you have teens clamoring for new books, more in a favorite series, or simply wanting something “good” to read? There is a bumper crop of new titles on the way for Spring and Summer release, and our three sponsoring publishers can’t wait to tell you all about these exciting books. While some may deal with classic teen issues such as dating, school, drugs, family and sex, others are more for fun, or simply informative.

For more information and to register for this program, visit: https://event.on24.com/eventRegistration/EventLobbyServlet?target=registration.jsp&eventid=189538&sessionid=1&key=BA902F769C137B62E8F89155A5227E26&sourcepage=register

February 25, 4:30 – 5:30 PM, Central Time
Introduction to the new Gale statewide databases

Join a Gale trainer and Chris Van Burgh to learn about the new Gale statewide databases.

To join the webinar, go to http://www.yugma.com/, click Join a Meeting, click View Only, and enter the Session ID 335073135, your name, and email address, and click Join.  The audio portion of the webinar will be presented through LeaderPhone. Dial 1-877-278-8686 and enter the PIN 315052 to join.

February 26, 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM, Central Time
Rocking the Sandbox : Big Ideas From a Little Library (BCR)

They say that poverty and necessity are the mother of invention and the John C. Fremont Library is proving it. In this small, rural library they git-r-done in 2.0 style. Open source software and free software has revolutionized their workflow and their expectations. From an open source ILS to a wiki based acquisitions system, they will experiment with anything. Thier successes and failures have taught them a lot. Join Kieran Hixon as he reveals what works and what hasn’t for his library from Ready Reference, PC reservations, online reference, blogging, social media, wikis and more.

For more information and to register for this program, visit: http://www.bcr.org/training/schedule/programdetail.php?programid=434

March 2 and March 4 – 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM, Central time 
More Than Just Googling – Online  (BCR)

Google definitely has made a name for itself as the frontrunner in web searching, but they didn’t stop there. The bright minds at Google have been turning out more fantastic tools to help you tackle the ever-growing mass of information on the net. In this hands-on, 2 -day online workshop, we’ll take a look at Google Reader, iGoogle, Google Books, and Google Docs. Time permitting, we might check out a couple more, too! If you don’t have a Google account already (e.g. Blogger, Picasa, or Gmail), you might want to set one up before the workshop – you’ll definitely use it!
Who Should Attend:  Any librarian interested in how Google is influencing our information landscape beyond the world of search. Before class, make sure you have a Google account – and that you know the username and password!

For more information and to register for this program, go to: http://www.bcr.org/training/workshops/register.html

March 3 – 1:00 – 2:00 PM, Central Time
Library Images and Video: Engage, Inspire and Tell your Story  (WebJunction at WebEx)
 
In this entertaining and heartwarming presentation you will learn how two librarians teamed up to advocate more effectively (and boldly) while staying true to the personality of the communities, the libraries and the staff they serve. You and your library really can market your services and engage more effectively, and images, video and authenticity can be a key! Learn how you too can use images and video creatively and effectively to inspire Libraryland, engage the communities you serve, boost staff morale and get more enjoyment from your job. The stories and lessons in this session will be presented by Jeff Dawson from the Lester Public Library in Two Rivers Wisconsin and by Michael Porter from WebJunction.

For more info and to register, go to: http://evanced.info/webjunction/evanced/eventcalendar.asp and click on event title.

March 10 – 12:00 – 1:00 PM, Central Time
TechAtlas for Libraries – Inventory Tools  (WebJunction at Wimba classroom)
 
Join us as we explore the technology inventory tool features in WebJunction’s free resource, TechAtlas for Libraries. The TechAtlas tools can help your library build a complete inventory of your technology resources – everything from computers to digital cameras. You can even use a great set of automated inventory tools to help make the process easier. Participants will be led through a live demonstration of TechAtlas and hear best practices about inventory management.

For more information and to register for this event, go to: http://evanced.info/webjunction/evanced/eventsignup.asp?ID=1635

Register Now for the Free Online WebJunction Conference: Technology Essentials 2010

On February 9–10, WebJunction is hosting a two-day online conference, and you are invited to register for this free event today. The theme is Technology Essentials, with a focus on practical and timely strategies for leveraging technology in sustaining your library. Conference sessions and presenters include:

• Janie Rutherford and Cindi Hickey, State Library of Kansas with M&M: Maximum Marketing/Minimum Investment
• Sandra Nelson with The Planning Puzzle: Integrating your Strategic Plan and your Technology Plan
• Stephanie Gerding with Library Grants 101
• Joshua Dodson and Laura Slavin with WordPress for Library 2.0 and Beyond
• Pat Carterette with Learning When There’s No Time (or Money) to Learn
• Karen McCoy with Implementing Reliable Instant Messaging at Your Library.

You won’t want to miss this valuable learning opportunity for you and your staff. Full program and speaker information is now available here.

Register once and attend as many or a few sessions as you choose!

The Kansas Center for the Book at the State Library of Kansas and the Kansas Humanities Council invites individuals, book clubs, school classes, or other groups to join this exciting statewide reading program that brings communities together through reading.  Kansas Reads traditionally kicks off on Jan. 29, Kansas Day, and continues through March 15.

The 2010 Book was selected by a committee of librarians, publishers, booksellers and authors after reviewing hundreds of books.  In 2009, nearly 10,000 Kansans shared in the discussion groups at libraries, book clubs and other venues.  The One Book/One State reading project is in its fourth year and gains momentum every year.    

To learn more, visit the YouTube program trailers created especially for 2010 Kansas Reads…Dreams from My Father at http://www.kcfb.info/dreams/resources, or on the State Library YouTubeChannel. Information can also be found at the State Library of Kansas’ website, www.kslib.info or at the Kansas Center for the Book website, www.kcfb.info. 

The YouTube videos were created by Emporia State SLIM program student Lily Morgan and SLIM program graduate Kelly Fann.

The grassroots project encourages book title suggestions from anyone—individuals, authors, booksellers, and publishers. Nominations may be made between January 29, 2010 and October 31, 2010.  The list of 150 notable titles will be announced at the beginning of 2011 and promoted throughout the sesquicentennial year. 

Criteria for nominations is simple:  a significant aspect of the book must relate to Kansas.  The book can tell a story about Kansas, its culture, its heritage or be historical in nature.  In addition, the book may be written by a recognizable author who called Kansas home at some time in his/her lifetime; and the book may be from any genre, fiction or non-fiction, and suitable for readers of any age.

A submission form is available here 150 nomination form

National Library Week annually celebrates the contributions of our nation’s libraries and librarians. All types of libraries (school, public, academic and corporate/special) participate. More importantly, it’ a time to raise awareness about libraries and library services. Highlight the great products, services, and experts you have!

William completed the Boston Marathon at the age of 67. Now, in his late-80s, he continues to enjoy hiking, skiing and running. Mildred, 73, hits the step machine after complete knee replacement surgery and daily increases her walking distance. These are just two of the inspirational stories on the National Library of Medicine’s (NLM) NIHSeniorHealth website (http://nihseniorhealth.gov).

People aged 65 and up numbered 37.3 million in 2006 (12.4% of the population) and are expected to represent 20% of the United States population by 2030.(1)  In Kansas, approximately one third of the population is 50 years or older.(2) Fifty-three percent of next-generation seniors (50-64) and twenty-one percent of seniors 65 and up have gone online to search for health information.(3)  With the growth of our aging population, it’s imperative to have accurate, authoritative online resources to make informed health care decisions. Below is a selection of resources that focus on the unique needs of seniors and caregivers.

NIHSeniorHealth was developed by staff from the NLM and the National Institute on Aging to provide seniors and caregivers with reliable aging-related health information. The site debuted in 2002 with three health topics, and now includes 43 health topics, health videos, Medicare basics for caregivers, a trainer’s toolkit to help older adults learn to search online health information, and links to tips on making websites senior friendly. The site has many senior-friendly features allowing users to easily increase the text size, change the page color for higher contrast, or activate the “talking” function that reads text aloud.

The National Institute on Aging (http://www.nia.nih.gov) provides information on healthy aging, caregiving, dietary supplements, and diseases in both English and Spanish. It also provides links to other National Institutes of Health and other government websites. This Institute conducts scientific research to understand the nature of aging and extending one’s healthy active years. In addition to health information, the site has a searchable database of over 300 national organizations that provide help to older adults.

The U. S. Administration on Aging (http://aoa.gov) provides links to connect older persons, caregivers and professionals to federal, national and local programs – including the Eldercare Locator to find help with transportation, meals, home care, and caregiver support services. You can link to the Locator directly at http://www.eldercare.gov.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has a section just for seniors at www.USA.gov/Topics/Seniors.shtml. Topics include health issues – such as arthritis, cancer, diabetes – drug information, medication errors, health fraud,and nutrition.

Nursing Home Compare (www.medicare.gov/NHCompare/home.asp) is a tool containing detailed information about past performance of every Medicare and Medicaid-certified nursing home in the country. Sites receive ratings on health inspections, nursing home staffing, residents quality measures (health, physical functioning, mental status, general well being), and fire safety inspections.
 
For more information, or to schedule a presentation:
Rebecca Brown, MLS
Kansas Outreach & Technology Liaison
National Network of Libraries of Medicine, MidContinental Region
University of Kansas Medical Center
A.R. Dykes Library of Health Sciences
2100 W. 39th Avenue

[1] “Aging Statistics.” U.S. Administration on Aging. Accessed January 6, 2009 <http://www.aoa.gov/AoARoot/Aging_Statistics/index.aspx>.

[2] “Aging Statistics.” U.S. Administration on Aging. Accessed January 6, 2009 http://www.aoa.gov/AoARoot/Aging_Statistics/index.aspx.

[3] “e-Health and the Elderly: How Seniors Use the Internet for Health – 2005 Survey Results.” Kaiser Family Foundation. Accessed January 6, 2009 http://www.kff.org/entmedia/entmedia011205pkg.cfm.