2003                                                                      2004

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Last updated June 3, 2004

June 2004

June News
Legislation
Announcements
Awards, Grants and Scholarships
Resources
Future Events

Legislation

Keep Our Kids Reading: Inspire Someone to Become a Librarian

Sandy Schuckett aq061@lafn.org of the California School Library Association and the American Association of School Librarians (AASL) are asking librarians across the country to ask their members of Congress to sign on to become co-sponsors of HR 2674, a bill that outlines a plan for encouraging and recruiting young people into the library profession.

Below is a "Dear Colleague" letter from California Rep. Xavier Becerra who continues to be a great friend of school and public libraries. This bill, which he wants to add as an amendment to the Higher Education Act, could do much to recruit young people to our field, since it outlines a plan to forgive percentages of Perkins Loans for those who go into service in a school or public library upon graduation. At the ALA Legislative Day in Washington, D.C., those meeting with Representative Becerra promised him as many co-sponsors for this bill as possible from around the country.

Please urge your legislators to co-sponsor this important bill. Read about it below. It says that co-sponsors need to sign-on by having their Representative's staff contact Cindy Panuco in Rep. Becerra's office at 202-225-6235.

====================================

[A letter from California Rep. Xavier Becerra to his Congressional colleagues]

May 12, 2004

KEEP OUR KIDS READING: INSPIRE SOMEONE TO BECOME A LIBRARIAN

Dear Colleague,

Public libraries and schools across this nation are experiencing a dire shortage of librarians. The shortage of librarians is attributed to a combination of two factors. First, it is difficult to recruit and retain qualified librarians in the face of low salaries. Second, an alarming number of librarians are reaching the age of retirement. One in four librarians will retire in the next five years. Nearly 60 percent of professional librarians will reach the age of 65 between 2005 and 2019.

To help fill these voids, I have introduced HR 2674 THE LIBRARIAN EDUCATION AND DEVELOPMENT ACT OF 2003, critical legislation that will encourage individuals to pursue careers as librarians in public schools and libraries in low-income areas by providing student loan forgiveness.

State and local government budgets are tighter than ever and public libraries are being closed to save money. According to a national study recently conducted by the American Library Association, 41 states have absorbed more than $50 million in library funding cuts over the past year. As a result, libraries are reducing personnel, freezing salaries, and reducing operating hours (including some library closings). More and more, our children rely on their own school's library for their resources. The fact is school libraries have become even more important as the place where our children learn outside of the classroom.

There have been bipartisan efforts to address the critical shortage of librarians. The President's FY 2005 budget requested $23 million dollars to fund an initiative to recruit and educate librarians for the 21st century. HR 2674 is also a simple way to encourage more students to enter and stay in the field and serve children and youth in our highest risk schools.

Current law allows for the cancellation of educational loans for several categories of professionals that serve in low-income areas. Specifically, under my bill, a librarian working full-time in a public library that serves a geographic area with combined average of 30 percent of enrolled students at the poverty level or in an elementary or secondary school library that is eligible for Title I assistance would qualify for the following levels of loan cancellation based on number of years of service: 15% of Perkins in the first or second years, 20% of Perkins in the third or fourth years, 30% of Perkins in the fifth year, and $5,000 (total) of direct and indirect Stafford after five years of service.

I urge your support of this legislation. It is vital that we encourage qualified graduates with increasing debts to enter educational fields that are suffering from critical shortages. Please contact Cindy Pánuco (202-225-6235) in my office if you'd like to become a co-sponsor of this legislation.

Sincerely,

/s XAVIER BECERRA
Member of Congress

[jun 2004][top 2003]

Announcements

Annual Librarians Retirement Dinner

Five school library media specialists will be retiring this June. They include Carmella Cammorata, Roberta Katz, Mary Allen McAden, Betty Perry and Lorraine Quittman.

Carmella Cammarota is the librarian at Davis Middle School in Mount Vernon. Carmella has served on the School Library System Council for the past five years. Roberta Katz is the librarian at the Solomon Schechter Lower School in White Plains. Betty Perry has served for nineteen years as the elementary librarian at the William E. Cottle School in Tuckahoe. Mary Allen McAden has served the students in Fox Meadow Elementary School in Scarsdale for twenty-one years. Lorraine Quittman is the librarian at the Central Elementary School in Mamaroneck.

A celebration retirement dinner to honor their accomplishments has been scheduled for June 3rd from 4:00 to 6:00 P.M. at Tramonto Restaurant, 27 Saw Mill River Road, Hawthorne, NY.

NOVEL Extends Contract for EBSCO Databases and Adds New ScienceResource

The New York State Library announced that it has renewed its contract with EBSCO to provide resources for the NOVEL database collection for a three-year period beginning September 1. Also, a new database - the EBSCO General Science Collection - has been added to the NOVEL collection at no additional cost, effective immediately.

In renewing the EBSCO contract, New York State Librarian Janet M. Welch accepted the recommendation of NECAT (NOVEL Electronic Collections Advisory Team). NECAT is the working group recently appointed by the NOVEL Steering Committee and charged with recommending NOVEL-supported electronic collections. The State Library also continues to consult with other organizations involved with the selection and group licensing of electronic collections.

The contract with EBSCO includes MasterFile Select, Topic Search, and Primary Search. EBSCO has added the General Science Collection database as part of the contract renewal agreement. Libraries are also eligible for credit or an upgrade if they already subscribe to these databases.

General Science Collection provides information on all aspects of the scientific world and offers full-text coverage for more than 60 of the most popular science publications, including Archaeology, Astronomy, Discover, National Wildlife, New Scientist, Popular Science, Science News, Scientific American, and many others. Subject areas covered include the observation, description, identification, and experimental investigation of phenomena and the application of science to industrial or commercial objectives. The database also includes Great Scientific Achievements of the Twentieth Century, a multi-volume encyclopedia from Salem Press.

To see the title list for the General Science Collection, go to www.epnet.com/TitleLists/pdf/gs.pdf.

All NOVEL database subscribers who are currently registered for the EBSCO databases will automatically receive the General Science Collection database. It will appear as one of the menu choices when users log into the EBSCO databases.

If you have questions on the EBSCO databases, please send them to nyslnovel@mail.nysed.gov.

State Education Department Partners Promote
Summer Reading Program

Educational studies show that kids who enjoy leisure time reading over the summer perform at higher academic levels when school resumes than those with no summer reading. The New York State Library's 2004 statewide summer reading program NEW YORK IS READ, WHITE, AND BLUE! is just the kind of summer reading that keeps kids learning and reading while school is out of session.

Almost one million kids statewide participated in the program in summer 2003, and more are expected to participate in 2004. The Office of Elementary, Secondary, and Continuing Education (EMSC) is working in partnership with the State Library to make sure kids, teachers, and parents get involved in this important program. Both are part of the New York State Education Department (SED). Their joint effort is an important element in SED's effort to improve education and ensure that children at all levels learn at a higher level.

Fliers for parents will be available in languages other than English, including Spanish , Chinese, Korean, Urdu, Arabic, and Haitian Creole. The fliers will be accessible online via the New York State Library's web site. Special promotional fliers will also be available to visitors to the New York State Museum in Albany. Principals, classroom teachers, other school administrators and educators, and public and school librarians can watch for more information about when the fliers will be available.

Public and school librarians can find out more about how they can help raise the achievement levels of students with this high impact program at the New York State Library's web site at www.nysl.nysed.gov/libdev/summer/index.html.

Schools and public and school libraries are invited to add a direct link from their web sites to the NEW YORK IS READ, WHITE, AND BLUE! web site at www.summerreadingnys.org/planners/web-link.html.

Survey on Library Media Specialists' Perceptions of Information Literacy Instruction and Achievement

Attention: High School Library Media Specialists

Help document the importance of the library media profession to student achievement by taking the survey, entitled Library Media Specialists' Perceptions of Information Literacy Instruction and Achievement, available online at http://www.faculty.fairfield.edu/databases/infolit/.

Your input will inform recommendations for improvements in information literacy instruction and resource accessibility in high school library media centers, while preparing academic librarians to address college freshmen's least developed skills. This survey may take you 15 - 20 minutes to complete. For questions specifically related to the survey, you may contact Lisa Murno at murnol@guilford.k12.ct.us or Ramona Islam at rislam@mail.fairfield.edu. Please respond by Friday, June 11. Thank you.

Vacancies on Regents Advisory Council on Libraries

The Board of Regents will be filling vacancies on the Regents Advisory Council on Libraries this year. Janet M. Welch, State Librarian and Assistant Commissioner for Libraries, is seeking recommendations for membership on this Council by July 9, 2004.

The Regents Advisory Council on Libraries advises the New York State Board of Regents on State policy regarding the New York State Library, library development programs, legislation and library aid programs. The Council works with the officers of the State Education Department in developing a comprehensive statewide library and information policy and makes recommendations to the Regents concerning the implementation of the program.

Three new Regents Advisory Council appointees will serve five-year terms from October 1, 2004 to September 30, 2009. One additional appointee will serve the remainder of a term vacated by a member during 2004, filling that term until 2007. At the end of this time, this member will then become eligible to serve a full five-year term.

The State Library particularly encourages recommendations of representatives of New York State's broadly diverse population, including but not limited to African Americans, Asian Americans, Native Americans, Hispanic origin/ancestry and people with disabilities.

Please send nominations to Janet M. Welch, State Librarian and Assistant Commissioner for Libraries, New York State Library, 10C34 Cultural Education Center, Albany, NY 12230; e-mail: jwelch2@mail.nysed.gov by July 9, 2004. For more information, contact Paula Paolucci at ppaolucc@mail.nysed.gov; phone (518) 474-5930.

[jun 2004][top 2003]

Awards, Grants and Scholarships

Washington Irving Children's Choice Book Award

The Washington Irving Children's Choice Book Award was established in 1982 to honor Westchester authors and illustrators. In order for a book to be eligible for the 2004 award, it must have been written or illustrated by a Westchester resident during 2001, 2002, or 2003. The books are nominated by a committee of public and school librarians, and then children in grades K-8 are invited to VOTE for their favorites.

School and public libraries are encouraged to display the nominated books in three different categories: author/illustrator; author; and illustrator. Children are encouraged to read all of the books in each category before voting and may vote in more than one category.

Voting must be complete by Election Day, November 2, 2004 and winners will be announced during Children's Book Week, November 15-21, 2004. For further information, please contact Judith Rovenger at 914-231-3236 or Susan Sterling at 914-231-3235.

Nominated books for the Washington Irving Childrens Choice Book Awards 2004

Author/Illustrator Category

Author Category

Illustrator Category

These books by Westchester authors deserve special recognition. They require a more sophisticated reader than the books listed above.

Books of Special Note

[jun 2004][top 2003]

Resources

Online Resources - Brown v. Board of Education

May 17, 2004 was the 50th anniversary of the Supreme Court decision in Brown v. Board of Education which ruled that public school desegregation was unconstitutional, The City College of New York, Cohen Library has added a section regarding Brown v. Board of Education to their online CCNY Government Documents Division page at: http://www.ccny.cuny.edu/library/Divisions/Government/GOVPUBS.html

There's a transcript and images of the actual decision, information on Thurgood Marshall who argued the case in front of the Supreme Court, sections on both the making and the implementation of the decision and a lesson plan created by the National Archives about the decision using government documents.

There's also a link to some Census Bureau data on the "educational attainment and school enrollment of Blacks — then and now." The statistics include School Enrollment, High School Graduates, College Graduates and Total Number of Students (Nursery School through College).

The Supreme Court decision was based on the Justices' ruling that public school segregation was a violation of the "equal protection of the laws" provision of the 14th Amendment (Section 1) and therefore unconstitutional.

The Gov Docs page also has a section called "Constitutional Amendments" and the full text of the 14th Amendment is available (as is the text of all the other Constitutional Amendments).

New Online Information Literacy Articles

There are four new full-text articles dealing with information literacy available at the Academic Exchange Quarterly website.

These are:

1. A Collaborative Approach to Information Literacy in the Freshman Seminar (http://rapidintellect.com/AEQweb/mo2456may.htm)
2. Enhancing Information Literacy: A Practical Exemplar (http://rapidintellect.com/AEQweb/mo2458may.htm)
3. Paths to Understanding (http://rapidintellect.com/AEQweb/mo2449may.htm)
4. Enticing Faculty to Library Instruction Workshops (http://rapidintellect.com/AEQweb/mo2470may.htm)

In addition, Academic Exchange Quarterly is seeking manuscripts in two areas which may be of interest to librarians.

These are:

1. Student Perceptions, Beliefs, or Attitudes (http://rapidintellect.com/AEQweb/ontstu.htm)
2. Community College (http://rapidintellect.com/AEQweb/4sucomc.htm)

Hamilton College Library

Hamilton College Library is pleased to announce the availability of its digital resources website: http://library.hamilton.edu/collections/

The resources currently available are Civil War materials, largely related to the 117th N.Y.S. Volunteer Infantry Regiment, one of four from Oneida County.

The contents include the following:
* 925 enlistment papers from 1862 covering about half of the members of the 117th N.Y.S. regiment.
* A collection of 57 letters written by George W. Pearl, a private in the 117th N.Y.S. Infantry Regiment, who parents lived in Clinton, New York, written from 1862 to 1865 while serving in the 117th, Company F.
* The journal of private John Humphrey, of Utica, New York, written from 1863 to 1865 while serving in the 117th, Company B.
* Thirteen reunion invitations issued by the 117th Regiment N.Y.S.V. Association to attend annual reunions of the 117th between 1899 and 1918. The invitations typically included a message from a member of the reunion committee, a list of association officers, order of program, a mortuary report, and directions to the venue.
* A collection of 23 colorful silk ribbons issued at annual reunions of the 117th. They usually showed the regiment name, town and date of the reunion.
* A collection of 67 letters written by Henry Welch of North Hebron, Washington Co., N.Y., a corporal in the 123rd New York Infantry Regiment, written from 1862-1865. The letters are written to father (Mr. Luther Welch), mother (Mrs. Phoebe Welch), his brother and sisters, and an uncle and aunt (Mr. and Mrs. Franklin Tanner of South Granville, Washington, Co., N.Y.
* An additional 240 letters will be added by Fall 2004.
The enlistment forms are searchable by name; town, state, and country of birth; occupation; place of enlistment; consentor; and company.

The letters have been both digitized and transcribed. They can be browsed chronologically and are keyword searchable on the full text.

The journal has also been digitized and transcribed. It can be browsed page by page. We anticipate making it keyword searchable in the future.

It is our hope that anyone interested in the Civil War will find these resources useful. We see potential applications not only for researchers, but also for high school students, genealogists, local history enthusiasts, and those with a curiosity about the Civil War, especially as depicted by local soldiers.

This work has been funded in part by grants from the Central New York Library Resources Council (CLRC) through the Regional Bibliographic Data Bases and Interlibrary Resources Sharing Program of the State of New York.

Hamilton College Library owes a special note of thanks to the children of Edward M. and Doris Alberding Turley, of Clayville, N.Y., who donated the 117th enlistment forms to the Library in 2001.

D-Day 60th Anniversary & Government Documents

Grace-Ellen McCrann, Chief, Government Documents & Reference Divisions, The City College of New York, Cohen Library has put together a "Government Views of D-Day 1944" website at: http://www.ccny.cuny.edu/library/Divisions/Government/DDay.html

[jun 2004][top 2003]

Future Events

Events to put on your calendar for the days and months ahead

Annual Retirement Party

June 3, 2004
4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Southern Westchester BOCES, Elmsford, NY

SLMS Carol A. Kearney Leadership Retreat

August 9 & 10, 2004
Cornell University, Ithaca, NY

Council Meetings for 2004-2005

September 27, 2004
November 22, 2004
January 24, 2005
March 21, 2005
May 23, 2005

[jun 2004][top 2003]

May 2004

May News
Legislation
Announcements
Awards, Grants and Scholarships
Library Related Courses
Resources
Future Events

Legislation

Advocacy Still Needed

For the 20th consecutive year, the New York State budget is late. As of May 4, 2004 the budget is 33 days late.

According to Glenn Blain in an article in the online edition of The Journal News, "budget delays have almost always stemmed from major disagreements between the governor and legislative leaders over how much money the state has to spend and where it should be spent. New York also has the earliest budget deadline of any state in the nation, allowing less time for leaders to agree. This year's stalemate has also been complicated by a recent court decision ordering the state to revamp its system for financing public education."

Within this scenario we must continue to advocate for strong libraries if we are to raise learning standards. Libraries play a critical role in education at all levels, in the economy and in communities statewide.

Continue to contact your state representatives urging them to:

* Restore the $4.4 million that would be cut in the recommended Executive Budget's proposed reduction in state aid to libraries.
* Enact funding increases through the Regents "New Century Libraries" legislative proposal (A8354 / S 3994).
* Provide full funding in existing law to meet formula requirements.
* Maintain the State Library within the Department of Education rather than placing it in a new entity called the New York Institute for Cultural Education (NYICE).

A link to the Advocacy Toolkit to help in this process can be found on The School Library System website under Resources or directly at http://www.crbsls.org/slsa/.

[may 2004][top 2003]

Announcements

Library Media and Technology Specialists Needed

The Harrison Central School District is currently seeking two elementary Library Media and Technology Specialists to become part of an innovative new program focusing on Inquiry, Information Literacy and Technology. Please review the vacancy announcement below and if you are interested in pursuing one of the positions, respond by email to Michael Greenfield, Director of Instructional Technology, Harrison Central School District greenfieldm@harrisoncsd.org.

(2) Library Media Specialist/Technology: Teachers certified in Library Media with elementary teaching experience, strong technology integration expertise and a commitment to active, engaged learning. Position requires excellent communication and collaborative planning/time management skills.

Harrison CSD, located in Westchester County, 35 miles from NYC, is a diverse, high performing suburban school district of 3,400 students. The district offers an excellent compensation and benefits package, a strong professional learning community and has made a long-term commitment to staff development.

NEW YORK IS read, white & blue!

New York State Library's Statewide Summer Reading Program 2004

Contact your local children's librarian at the public library to arrange for students to sign up.

Studies have shown that children who continue to read during the summer when school is not in session perform better in the fall when school resumes. Summer reading programs make educational reading activities fun and appealing to young people.

Public libraries across the State will be providing entertainment and recreation related to reading all summer long with the statewide summer reading program "2004: New York is Read, White and Blue!" with artwork by Caldecott Award-winning children's book illustrator Ed Young.

Summer reading programs in public libraries also provide an opportunity to use computers, search the Internet and socialize with peers.

Recommended Reading -- "Kids Choice" Brochure and Checklist

This year, for the first time, a committee of public librarians, school librarians and teachers worked together to create a booklist emphasizing the theme and message of the New York is Read, White and Blue Summer Reading Program. The booklist includes over 40 carefully selected books on a variety of topics that will serve as a guide for young readers to choose from and read at their own pace this summer. The list can also be used as a supplemental reading guide for students with required reading assignments from their schools.

Cost-effective and available to all New Yorkers

Summer reading programs are one of the best bargains around! They are offered free of charge to all children from toddlers to teens. Parents are encouraged to participate as well.

Local Involvement

Local librarians contribute ideas for the summer reading program activities manual.

Local librarians creatively adapt and use the program to meet local needs and interests.

Local libraries play a pivotal role by contributing local funds as well as involving library staff, local businesses and other organizations to implement the program.

Local library staff help children select reading materials and provide such literacy-enhancing programs as storytelling, music and puppet shows, etc.

For more information

NEW YORK IS read, white and blue! 2004 Information for Librarians, Parents and Kids

[Program site under development; resources for Planners and Parents now available.]

Additional resources

Archives of Statewide Summer Reading Program resources from previous years
New York State Reading Association
Contact Anne Simon at the Division of Library Development, New York State Library, Albany, NY 12230; 518-486-2194

The Statewide Summer Reading Program is supported by Federal Library Services and Technology Act funds, awarded to the New York State Library by the Federal Institute of Museum and Library Services.

The Campaign for America's Libraries

ABC-TV continues support for The Campaign for America's Libraries with new PSAs featuring prime time stars

ABC Television Network has produced five new public service announcements (PSAs) featuring primetime stars talking about the importance of families reading together and libraries. Part of the network's "A Better Community" series, these PSAs reflect an ongoing relationship between ABC and The Campaign for America's Libraries that began in 2001.

The PSAs feature Garcelle Beauvais-Nilon ("NYPD Blue"), Camryn Manheim ("The Practice"), Constance Marie ("George Lopez"), Sara Rue ("Less Than Perfect"), and Shoshannah Stern ("Threat Matrix"). Stern, who is deaf, presents her PSA entirely in sign language. The end of each PSA is tagged with "The Campaign for America's Libraries" and the American Library Association Web address.

ABC has sent the spots to all of its 193 affiliates, and they will be placed into national, network rotation beginning in May.

To ensure that the PSAs get airtime from affiliates, libraries across the country are encouraged to contact their local ABC television stations. A tipsheet is available online on the campaign web site at www.ala.org/@yourlibrary under "Sponsorship Programming" with ideas for reaching out and working with local television public service directors now and throughout the year, as well as contact information for local ABC stations. The PSAs are not available for use on other networks or on cable outlets.

Libraries are urged to let the ALA Public Information Office know if their local stations are airing the spots. Send email to:
atyourlibrary@ala.org or call 800-545-2433, ext. 4020.

"The exposure that these PSAs offer us is tremendous, and we're delighted that ABC has highlighted reading and libraries. Now it is essential that librarians across the country take full advantage of the network's generous contribution by following up with their local ABC affiliate stations to ensure that they will air in their communities," said Public Awareness Committee Chair Patricia Glass Schuman.

ABC Television Network is a supporter of The Campaign for America's Libraries, ALA's multi-year public education initiative to speak loudly and clearly about the value of libraries and librarians in the 21st Century. For more information on the campaign, visit www.ala.org/@yourlibrary.

Teen Read Week 2004

IT'S ALIVE! @ your library® during Teen Read Week 2004.

What is big and read and is for 12 to 18-year-olds? It is the intersection of horror, suspense, black and white movies from the '50s, and even modern concepts like genetic engineering. It's programming and reading and ways to increase adolescent literacy all rolled up into a weeklong celebration known as Teen Read Week. Teens will be reading for the fun of it as public libraries and school library media centers across the country celebrate Teen Read Week, October 17 - 23, 2004. They join hundreds of other libraries, schools and bookstores that are encouraging teens to celebrate this year's theme, "IT'S ALIVE! @ your library®."

Literacy is a topic of national concern, and falling test scores and lower graduation rates among teens today are still a serious issue. However, according to the National Education Association Web site, a 2001 poll conducted by Peter D. Hart & Associates indicates that "Teenagers, age 12 to 18, rated reading, math, and writing as the first, second, and third most important things people need to learn to be successful in life. Young people put this to practice, demonstrating a healthy amount of reading." Not only do they read, but the poll also indicates that they describe the experience as "relaxing * rewarding * stimulating."

A reading habit increases reading proficiency. One of the most important ways teens acquire the habit is by watching adults they respect. Being around adults with a reading habit can counteract the latest statistics from The Nation's Report Card (http://nces.ed.gov/nationsreportcard), that indicate that in homes across America the number of different types of reading materials has decreased, and a smaller percentage of seventeen-year-olds saw adults reading in their homes.

Celebrate Teen Read Week with teens. There are many ways for teens and their librarians to discover that It's ALIVE! @ your library®:

· Join a book discussion group at the school or public library.
· Attend a program where science fiction and modern science converge.
· Stage a mystery night at the library.
· Host an intergenerational B movies night for teens and their families.
· Read what you want to read, just for the fun of it.

Teen Read Week is the national adolescent literacy initiative of the Young Adult Library Services Association, a division of the American Library Association. An updated sponsors and supporting organizations list can be found at the YALSA site, http://www.ala.org/teenread.

If your organization is celebrating Teen Read Week for the first time, YALSA has produced a manual, Teen Read Week: A Manual for Participation, that includes programming and marketing ideas as well as promotional hints and information on teen reading habits. More information about the manual is available at the ALA On-line Store, at http://www.alastore.ala.org/SiteSolution.taf?_sn=catalog&_pn=product_detail&_op=1223.

NYLA Conference Call for Poster Session Submissions

NYLA will again host a poster session at the Annual Conference in Rochester. The session will be Friday, October 22, 2004 from 1:30 pm - 3:00 pm (you can put your poster up at 1:00 pm).

The poster sessions have been wildly successful - people were beating down the doors and the crowds kept coming until the last poster was taken down. This year's poster sessions will be held in conjunction with the annual trade show - on the trade show floor!

So put your thinking cap on and develop a proposal for a poster to tell others how you did it good, what results you got from a project, or how you improved a service. Proposals should be sent in by May 28, 2004.

You can get the instructions and the proposal form online at:

http://www.nyla.org/content/user_1/NYLA_PoserSession_Form_16-1.doc

The main level NYLA Conference page is at:
http://www.nyla.org/index.php?page_id=70.

[may 2004][top 2003]

Awards, Grants and Scholarships

Office Dynamics Inc./NMRT Professional Development Award

The New Members Roundtable (NMRT) of the New York Library Association (NYLA) offers two awards that offer cash assistance for attending the NYLA Annual Conference. Descriptions of the awards, and links to the application forms follow. Please note the deadline for both awards is July 31, 2004.

Each year, Office Dynamics Inc. offers a $250 award to one new member of the New York Library Association (NYLA), to help defray the cost of attending the NYLA Annual Conference. A new member is defined as someone who has been a NYLA member for ten years or less and who is a current member of the New Members Round Table. The OFFICE DYNAMICS/NMRT PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT AWARD is intended to encourage new members to participate in both NYLA as well as its New Members Round Table (NMRT). The application for this award may be found at: http://www.nyla.org/index.php?page_id=227. Email applications to emlasda@yahoo.com. Applications must be RECEIVED by July 31st, 2004. The winner will be announced on August 13th, 2004.

Janway/NMRT Excellence Award

JanWay Company, in conjunction with the NYLA New Members Round Table, offers the JanWay/NMRT Excellence Award, a $250 award to one new member of the New York Library Association (NYLA), to help defray the cost of attending the NYLA Annual Conference. This award is intended to encourage the participation of NYLA New Members in the library field. A NYLA New Member is defined as someone who has been a member of NYLA for ten years or less and is a current New Members Round Table. This award is designed to recognize a NYLA New Member who has demonstrated involvement and leadership in one or more of the following areas:

- Innovative programs or services which improve library services in New York State.
- Exceptional use of state, local and/or national library resources, including special grants.
- Significant contribution toward betterment of library and community relations.
- Leadership and activity in local, state and/or national library organizations.

Nominees must be members of NYLA/NMRT, have an MLS degree and been in professional library work for ten years or less, having worked in a New York State Library for at least one year. Current NMRT Executive Members are not eligible to receive this award.The link to the application for this award may be found here: http://www.nyla.org/index.php?page_id=542. Email applications to emlasda@yahoo.com. Applications must be RECEIVED by July 31st, 2004. The winner will be announced on August 13th, 2004.

Empire Friends Advocacy Award

NOMINATE AN INDIVIDUAL OR GROUP FOR THE EMPIRE
FRIENDS DANIEL W. CASEY LIBRARY ADVOCACY AWARD

Each year the NYLA Empire Friends Roundtable honors a volunteer member of the library community or group whose efforts have contributed to the growth of libraries or Friends organizations.

To submit a nomination please provide the information requested below and mail by JULY 17, 2004 to:
Mary O'Hara
231 Melbourne Ave.
Syracuse, NY 13224

NAME OF NOMINEE/GROUP
TITLE
ADDRESS
TELEPHONE
SPONSOR'S NAME
TITLE
ADDRESS
TELEPHONE
DATE

Please list your reasons for nominating this person/group. Be a specific as possible, i.e., years of service, positions held, accomplishments, successful fundraisers or campaigns. Relevant supporting materials, press releases, promotional materials, etc. may be included. NO MATERIALS WILL BE RETURNED.

Previous nominations may be resubmitted.

Louis E. Yavner TEACHER AND CITIZEN Recognition Awards

August 2, 2004 is the deadline for submitting nominations for the Louis E. Yavner TEACHER AND CITIZEN Recognition Awards, given annually by the Board of Regents to a teacher and a citizen who have made outstanding contributions to education about the Holocaust and other violations of human rights. The awards are given in honor of the late Regent Emeritus Louis E. Yavner.

Nomination forms and more information about both these awards can be accessed by going to http://www.emsc.nysed.gov/ciai/socst/ssnews.html

EBSCO's Book Source: Nonfiction Receives Award

Since EBSCO released BookSource: Nonfiction almost a year ago, the level of excitement and interest that the database has drawn from K-12 schools throughout the U.S. and Canada has been remarkable.

In addition to this, BookSource: Nonfiction has been selected as a winner of the Media & Methods' 2004 Awards Portfolio, which will be announced in the May/June issue of this popular library publication.

EBSCO has been successful in its efforts to continually enhance the database through additional full text content. Now, BookSource: Nonfiction contains full text and informative abstracts for more than 2,000 high quality reference books. As a cross-curricular database, it provides content representing a spectrum of works, including many of the complete series from top book publishers such as Capstone Press, Chelsea House, Lerner Publishing Group, Mason Crest Publishers, Millbrook Press, Inc., Morgan Reynolds and Rourke Publishing, LLC. The database includes full text articles on literature, social studies, history, and science, as well as information on careers, health, sports, adventure, and technology.

If you have not taken a close look at BookSource: Nonfiction, we encourage you to do so. A free trial is available for the remainder of this current school year to any interested schools (through June 2004). If you would like to take advantage of the free trial, or would like additional information, please contact EBSCO via e-mail at: information@epnet.com.

[may 2004][top 2003]

Library Related Courses

East Coast Summer Institute for Knowledge Sharing

Museums, Libraries, and Archives:
Summer Institute for Knowledge Sharing
July 12-15, 2004
Boston
http://ksi.simmons.edu

After five years in Los Angeles, the Graduate School of Library and Information Science at Simmons College, Boston, will present an intensive four days of instruction for professionals involved in creating, sharing, and preserving electronic information in museums, libraries, archives, and other cultural heritage institutions. Invited are information specialists, registrars, librarians, archivists, curators, researchers, and educators with responsibility for digital collections. Through lectures, group discussions and exercises, participants will be immersed in the issues and decision points that institutions face in the acquisition, management, dissemination and preservation of digital collections. Special attention will be paid to the increasing convergence between museum, library, and archive practices and perspectives in the digital environment.

Experienced and knowledgeable instructors from across the country lead attendees from around the United States and abroad. In addition to course work, participants will take part in a number of events designed to complement their instruction including luncheons, receptions, and visits to sites off campus.

Early enrollment is encouraged. The deadline for early enrollment has been extended to June 1, 2004 (from May 1). Course fees: $850 (by June 1, 2004) $900 (after June 1, 2004). For registration information and more see: http://ksi.simmons.edu.

Digital Preservation Management: Short-Term Solutions to Long-Term Problems

http://www.library.cornell.edu/iris/dpworkshop/
July 19-23, 2004
Cornell University Library, Ithaca, NY

Cornell University Library is offering a digital preservation training program July19-23 with funding from the National Endowment for the Humanities. The workshop targets managers at organizations that are facing the digital preservation challenge and highlights the need for the integration of organizational and technological issues to devise an appropriate approach. This limited-enrollment workshop has a registration fee of $750 per participant. Registration opens on May 1 for the July workshop. There will be one final offering of the workshop this year in November 2004.

[may 2004][top 2003]

Resources

NOVEL Database Update

The New York State Library is pleased to announce that an agreement has been reached between Thomson Gale and the New York Times for the use of the New York Times in the Gale electronic databases.

Beginning immediately, Gale's InfoTrac Custom Newspapers database has access to full-text for the New York Times back through January 1, 2000 instead of having only a one year backfile.

The January 1, 2000 date will remain static, so Custom Newspapers subscribers will have an increasingly larger backfile as time progresses.

If you have further questions, please contact the NOVEL Help Desk by calling 877-277-0250 (toll free) or 486-6012 (Capital District area), 9-4pm Monday thru Friday. An e-mail can also be sent to the Help Desk at NYSLNOVEL@mail.nysed.gov.

For more information about NOVEL and a full list of NOVEL databases, see the NOVEL home page at http://www.nysl.nysed.gov/library/novel/database/index.html

NY Social Studies Standards - A Message from EBSCO

A large number of school librarians in New York are seeking materials that will meet the Social Studies standards for the State as outlined online at: http://www.emsc.nysed.gov/ciai/dbq/ssindex.html. Part of this is the need to make available valuable historical records and documents for teachers to create Document-Based Questions and to encourage students to analyze and answer these questions though well-written essays.

EBSCO offers two full text databases, History Reference Center and NewspaperARCHIVE Elite, that provide information to support the New York Social Studies standards. The quantity and quality of the content included in these databases provides teachers and students with the means to access subject-specific information representing appropriately-challenging materials for individual students. History Reference Center and NewspaperARCHIVE Elite provide teachers with content for use in supporting and supplementing classroom materials and instruction, while students have information available to them for reading, learning and researching.

History Reference Center features cover-to-cover full text for more than 50 leading history periodicals including Foreign Affairs (back to 1922) and History Today (back to 1975). History Reference Center contains 58,000 historical documents; 43,000 biographies of historical figures; more than 12,000 historical photos and maps, and more than 400 full text reference books and encyclopedias from many leading general history publishers. In addition, History Reference Center includes Essential Documents in American History (includes U.S. Constitution, the Declaration of Independence, etc), Historical Speeches, Presidential Papers, Supreme Court Decisions, and much more.

NewspaperARCHIVE Elite offers coverage for hundreds of newspapers with articles dating back as far as the 1700’s. With over 12 million fully searchable pages representing over 400 cities and towns, NewspaperARCHIVE Elite allows users to research genealogy, history, culture, and any newsworthy event.

For more information, or for a free trial of History Reference Center and/or NewspaperARCHIVE Elite, please send an e-mail to: information@epnet.com. Please be sure to include your name and institution.

PBS BROADCAST FEATURES SCHOOL LIBRARIES

"New York Learns: School Libraries Raise Student Achievement" was broadcast statewide on New York State Public Television Stations on Monday, April 12, 2004 at 10:30 p.m.

The broadcast featured a visit by New York State Education Commissioner Richard Mills to PS 306 in the Bronx.

School libraries raise student achievement; research and practice in New York State bear this out. This "New York Learns" program looks at the experience of PS 306 in the Bronx, a school where lagging student performance several years ago threatened to close it. Labeled a School Under Registration Review, PS 306 needed to turn around teaching and learning. They did it with a great deal of hard work on the part of students and educators alike. A strong school library has been one key to the academic success at PS 306.

If you would like to view this video please contact Janet Jamal at the School Library System office. Janet can be reached at (telephone) 345-8500, ext. 122; (fax) 592-4438; or e-mail jjamal@swboces.org. The video is not meant to be a definitive work of all the aspects of a school library media program, but rather for the general public about how a collaborative teaching and learning environment, which includes the school library media program, can raise student achievement. Commissioner Mills considers libraries valuable resources in achieving this goal.

"New York Learns" is a co-production of the New York State Education Department and WMHT-TV in the Capital District in cooperation with the New York State Public Television Stations.

The Rockefeller Institute State Fiscal News

The Rockefeller Institute State Fiscal News are "timely and accessible bulletins that are relevant to the finances of state and local governments. Sometimes they are brief analyses of new data, including a chart, table, or map, and other times they may simply be a bulletin alerting our audiences to newly released data." Each issue has a distinctive topical title.

These digital (PDF) publications are available on the internet from The Nelson A. Rockefeller Institute of Government at http://www.rockinst.org/publications/state_fiscal_news.html. Issues of the 'State Fiscal News' are also available from the New York State Library's digital media management system at http://purl.org/net/nysl/nysdocs/54962577 from 2001 to the present. These have been collected and cataloged in their original digital format by the New York State Library.

[may 2004][top 2003]

Future Events

Events to put on your calendar for the days and months ahead

WLA Annual Conference

May 7, 2004
Westchester Marriot

LSTA - NOVEL Training

May 14, 2004
Scarsdale High School

Council Meetings

May 17, 2004

Annual Retirement Party

June 3, 2004
4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Southern Westchester BOCES, Elmsford, NY

[may 2004][top 2003]

April 2004

April News
Legislation
Announcements
Awards, Grants and Scholarships
Resources
Future Events

Legislation

Advocacy Alert from NYLA Executive Director Michael Borges

As a follow-up to the very successful lobby day on March 16th, with over 500 participants, Michael Borges is strongly encouraging everyone to send a letter as soon as possible to their state legislators, both Assemblymembers and Senators, urging them to restore the Governor's cuts and provide a total of $13.7 million for libraries statewide.

Legislators have said they have not received a lot of mail or faxes from their constituents on library funding. We must respond quickly before budget negotiations are concluded.

Encourage all of your co-workers, staff, trustees, students, patrons, friends, etc. to send a letter.

NYLA's advocacy page (http://www.nyla.org/index.php?page_id=514) has a link to a draft letter and to advocacy letter guidelines for your use as well as links to both Assembly and Senate websites to find out who your state legislators are.

National Library Legislative Day

Tell your Senators and Representatives about the great programs and activities taking place @ your library!

National Library Legislative Day (NLLD), cosponsored by the District of Columbia Library Association and the American Library Association, is held each year in May to bring librarians, library trustees, board members, and other library friends to Washington, DC to talk with their Representatives and Senators about issues of concern to the library community. 2003's events brought over 450 librarians and friends of libraries from 47 states to Capitol Hill to advocate on behalf of libraries and library programs.

This year the 30th Annual National Library Legislative Day will be held on Tuesday, May 4th at Capitol Hill, Washington DC. Participants will walk the halls of Capitol Hill and bring important messages from the library community to Members of Congress. Participants are expected to schedule their own appointments. Please send list of appointments to mberman@wlsmail.org.

Contact NY coordinators for information on your state's delegation Mary Rinato Berman (914-231-3260) mberman@wlsmail.org Robert Bellinger (718-720-5766) rbellinger@nypl.org

Please find 2004 Registration Form here.

[april 2004][top 2003]

Announcements

Facts on File News Service - Free Trial

The Facts on File News Service is having a database trial which includes unlimited usage and free remote access through May 15th. The website can be found at http://www.facts.com/master. It will provide direct access to both their award-winning Reference Suite group of databases and their new Facts for Learning series. The Reference Suite offers four database modules: Facts.com, Issues and Controversies, Today's Science and The World Almanac Reference Database. Facts for Learning has two modules: Primary (grades 2-5) and Middle School (grades 5-8). It is easy and fun to use, curriculum related and grade specific (in the primary module). For information and a password, please contact Janet Jamal at the School Library System Office. Janet can be reached at (telephone) 345-8500, ext. 122; (fax) 592-4438; or e-mail jjamal@swboces.org.

GREAT NEW YORK READALOUD

The "Great New York ReadAloud" poster packets are now being mailed to the libraries of New York State from the New York State Library.

Libraries across the state are invited to be part of the fifteenth annual "Great New York ReadAloud" on Wednesday, April 21, 2004. The program is one of the largest one-day reading events in the nation and takes place during National Library Week and School Library Media Month. The theme this year is "Read Around The World @ Your Library."

The New York State Library, part of the State Education Department, coordinates the "Great New York ReadAloud."

Libraries and schools throughout New York State are invited to sponsor ReadAlouds by inviting local celebrities, public officials, and other community leaders to read and talk with young people about the joy of reading and the impact it had on their lives. The New York State Library, the New York Library Association, the New York State Association of Library Boards and 11 other organizations co-sponsor the annual event.

Libraries and schools are invited to schedule their own ReadAloud on April 21 or any day during School Library Media Month (April) or National Library Week (April 18 through 24.)

For information on how your library or school can sponsor a ReadAloud event contact: The New York State Library at tallen@mail.nysed.gov, online or call Tiffany H. Allen, Statewide ReadAloud coordinator at the New York State Library, at 518/474-6971.

The "Great New York ReadAloud" is sponsored by the New York Alliance for Arts in Education; National Education Association of New York; New York Library Association; New York State Assembly Standing Committee on Libraries and Educational Technology; New York State Association of Library Boards; New York State Congress of Parents and Teachers; New York State Education Department; New York State Library Assistants' Association; New York State Reading Association; New York State School Boards Association; New York State Senate Subcommittee on Libraries; New York State United Teachers; United University Professions.

Posters for the "Great New York ReadAloud" are provided in English, Spanish and Chinese by ProQuest Company of Ann Arbor, Michigan, a Corporate Sponsor of the "Great New York ReadAloud."

One of the nation's leading research libraries, the New York State Library has served New Yorkers, State government and researchers from throughout the United States for 183 years. It is the largest state library in the nation and the only state library to qualify for membership in the Association of Research Libraries. The Library's research collection of more than 19 million items includes major holdings in law, medicine, the social sciences, education, American and New York State history and culture, the pure sciences and technology. The New York State Library provides leadership and support to some 7,000 libraries and library systems throughout the state, maintains a Talking Book and Braille Library that serves more than 39,000 New Yorkers, and offers 24-hour access to a powerful online catalog of more than 2 million research items through the EXCELSIOR System ( http://www.nysl.nysed.gov ). The New York State Library is located in the Cultural Education Center of the Empire State Plaza in Albany. For more information call (518) 474-5355.

New York State Library and the Office of Elementary, Middle, Secondary and Continuing Education
Partner on the 2004 Statewide Summer Reading Program

By Anne E. Simon, Youth Services Consultant and Family Literacy Specialist
New York State Library, Division of Library Development, New York State Education Department

Theme
The New York State Library's 2004 Statewide Summer Reading program theme is New York Is Read, White And Blue! By including activities built around red, white & blue and New York-related ideas, it can be adapted to local-interest resources. (See the poster at http://www.nysl.nysed.gov/libdev/summer/index.html and see how many New York State symbols you recognize!) While the emphasis during the school year is on direct reading instruction, the 2004 summer reading program will underscore the value of reading as a leisure activity to increase reading comprehension.

The School/Public Library Partnership
School and public librarians know that unstructured reading for pleasure using materials that children select themselves is one of the most powerful tools to increase reading comprehension, speed and vocabulary, and your help is needed in sharing this message with parents, students and school administrators. (For more information on Summer Reading program research, visit: http://www.nysl.nysed.gov/libdev/summer/research.htm )

School Library Media Specialists and Youth Services Librarians Create Summer Reading Brochure
This year, a committee made up of school library media specialists, youth services public librarians and a reading teacher has teamed up to create a Summer Reading brochure and booklist. The brochure will include a list of enjoyable, entertaining books on topics related to the New York State theme so children can make their own selections and read at their own pace. The list will provide guidance to kids when they visit their local public library, and can also serve as a supplemental list for those children with required reading assignments from their schools.

Public librarians will be encouraged to take these brochures to the schools when they visit schools in June. There is funding for a limited supply of brochures and requests will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis. If you could use brochures in your school, please send an e-mail message with the quantity you can use to Suzanne Hulin at: shulin@mail.nysed.gov by April 16th.

Promotional Labels for Schools
Local public libraries will be encouraged to provide their schools with brightly colored labels for the report card envelopes or other end-of-year mailings as a direct way to reach parents. Suggested text for the labels will be: "Keep Your Kids Reading All Summer For Better Grades in the Fall. Sign Up for Free Summer Reading Programs at Your Local Library". PTA members, students and/or library volunteers could be recruited to affix the stickers to the outer envelopes of the mailing. If you're interested in using this promotional method, please contact your local public librarian.

Closing the Gap
Library summer reading programs reach across differences of family economic level and ethnic background to make a difference in the learning levels of all children. Children who participate in public library summer reading programs don't suffer the learning losses experienced by youngsters who have no access to reading programs. These learning losses can add up year-by-year and are a major reason why the academic gap between children from low-and high-income families grows.

Studies across the nation prove that kids who participate in library programs during the summer have an improved reading level in the fall when school resumes. When libraries and schools work together to get the word out to parents and students, the effort pays off in a big way in terms of achievement and developing the reading habit.

The Statewide Summer Reading Program is an important element in the State Education Department's challenge to make education in New York State better and ensure that all children learn at higher levels. Public librarians can tailor summer reading programs to best serve your schools. For more information, please contact your local public librarian(s).

State Library/EMSC Partnership
The New York State Library and the Office of Elementary, Middle, Secondary, and Continuing Education worked in partnership this past summer to make sure kids and parents got involved in the 2003 State Library's statewide summer reading program. Responding to a challenge from Commissioner Mills to keep kids reading and learning through July and August, the State Library, local public libraries and EMSC launched a campaign to raise awareness of the importance of summer reading to raise student achievement. As a result, nearly one million youngsters participated in the free reading programs at local public libraries throughout the State. The New York State Library and the Office of Elementary, Middle, Secondary, and Continuing Education will be teaming up again in 2004 to distribute information about the summer reading program to parents including providing bilingual publicity materials for parents.

For More Information
The programming manual and web links for planners and parents are available at: http://www.summerreadingnys.org/. Links with activities for children and teens will be added later this spring.

Ideas? Suggestions? Comments? Questions?
Please contact Anne Simon at: asimon@mail.nysed.gov or call her at 518-486-2194.

Volunteer in South Africa!

Announcing the 2004 Inform the World Library Skills Exchange

If you love books and reading, consider spending the summer of 2004 helping communities gain access to the information they need to build a better future.

The Inform the World (ITW) Library Skills Exchange is a 4-week hands-on volunteer program primarily for librarians, library science students and retired professionals (we do also accept some non-librarians). The program provides structured training and assistance to South African librarians and others with little or no formal librarian training, while offering volunteers the opportunity to use their skills and experience the vibrant culture of rural South African communities.

The program is called a "skills exchange" because African and international librarians bring their expertise together to create unique answers to the information needs of rural African communities. Sometimes the solutions are based on international standards, like using a recognized method for classifying books. Other times, they are unique adaptations to local conditions, like delivering books by donkey cart or making paper from elephant dung. Most often, each volunteer and African librarian contributes to creating a library as special as the community it serves.

The programs are 4 weeks; there are two groups going to different locations:

Limpopo Province: July 12 - August 12
KwaZulu Natal (KZN) Province: July 16 - August 17

The World Library Partnership (WLP) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to building global understanding by promoting literacy, learning and access to information. WLP believes that libraries empower individuals and enrich communities and we advocate for sustainable, community-based libraries in developing areas of the world. Visit their website at http://worldlibraries.org for more information.

Applications are welcome from interested volunteers around the world. For more information and to apply, please see http://www.worldlibraries.org/itw/southafrica/saprogram.shtml

ITW 2000 volunteer Debbie Kilcup put it best when she said; "We left not only a very functional and appealing facility behind for the eager learners but also a piece of our hearts. We are different for the experience."

"I never imagined I'd find such a perfect fit to combine my interest in volunteering, traveling in developing countries, cross-cultural understanding and also make use of my skills as a librarian" said Kara Malenfant (ITW 2001)

"I look in the library and I like the view. We had a room full of books, but we did not have a real library. We are proud to say that since Barbara came to our school, learners are using the library. She helped us become a library." - Mr. B.G. Sibisi, Assistant Principal of Zenzeleni High School.

The 2004 Banned Books Week Button

Libraries, schools, and individuals that would like to celebrate the freedom to read may freely save the 2004 Banned Books Week image for their Web sites; please use the link http://www.ala.org/bbooks/ and the ALT message [2004 BBW logo Elect to Read a Banned Book; Link to the ALA's Banned Books Week page; http://www.ala.org/bbooks/].

[april 2004][top 2003]

Awards, Grants and Scholarships

Westchester Library Association Scholarships

The Westchester Library Association (WLA) is making available three scholarships to support library services in Westchester to members at the 67th Annual WLA Conference on Friday, May 14, 2004. All awards are disbursed upon submission of educational cost receipts. Applications must be received no later than 5:00 p.m. on Thursday, April 29, 2004.

Eligibility:

To be eligible, candidates must be: 1) a Westchester Library Association member AND 2) work at a Westchester County Library or 3) be a Westchester County resident. Previous WLA scholarship winners are eligible to apply for a scholarship in a different category if they meet the requirements.

Awards:

1) Professionsl Category
One award up to $500.00 to be granted to a graduate student towards the completion of an MLS professional library degree program.

2) Support Staff Category
One award up to $500.00 to be granted to a library support staff member towards the completion of a degree program or for continuing education course(s).

3) Second Language Category (Spanish)
One award up to $500.00 to be granted to a professional librarian for the taking of a Spanish language course in order to better serve the growing Hispanic community in Westchester County.

Application guidlines can be found at http://www.wliba.org/application_guidelines_for_2004.html and the application can be found at http://www.wliba.org/scholarship%20application%202004.html. Applications can also be obtained by contacting by mail: Dulce M. Juarbe, Chair, WLA Scholarship Committee, c/o Mount Vernon Public Library, 28 South First Ave., Mt. Vernon, NY 10550; phone: (914) 668-1840 ext. 22, or e-mail: dulcej@springmail.com.

20th annual NYLA/ProQuest Intellectual Freedom Award

The Intellectual Freedom Committee of NYLA is calling for nominations for the 20th annual NYLA/ProQuest Intellectual Freedom Award. Nominees can be individuals or groups in New York State who have met and resisted attempts at censorship or have otherwise furthered the cause of intellectual freedom.

Those submitting names for consideration for this award should provide the following information about the nominee:

-the duration of the nominee's support of intellectual freedom
-the incidents that are especially noteworthy
-support from local and state organizations, community members and others
-relevant supportive data such as newspaper articles, letters of commendation, etc.
-names, addresses and phone numbers of two people who will be contacted to provide evidence and support for this nomination

Please note that members of NYLA's Intellectual Freedom Committee are not eligible for this award.

The award, consisting of a plaque and a $500 check from ProQuest, will be presented at the NYLA Conference in Rochester on October 22, 2004.

Forms can be obtained from the NYLA office or downloaded from NYLA's web site http://www.nyla.org and mailed by June 15, 2004 to:

Ellen Rubin
29 Queen Anne Lane
Wappingers Falls, NY 12590
845-221-0249

National Endowment for the Humanities Grants

The National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) has grants available for the preservation of materials in libraries. The application deadline is May 14, 2004. Grant amounts available go up to $5,000. An application is available on their website: www.neh.gov or you can call (202) 606-8570.

Joseph F. Shubert Library Excellence Award

The deadline for submitting applications for the 2004 Shubert Library Excellence Award is May 3, 2004. The winner of the 2004 award will receive $1,000 funded by EBSCO Information Services. All libraries, library systems and library consortia in New York State are eligible to apply. Below is additional information and application guidleines.

Dr. Louis A. Ciota, Chair of the Regents Advisory Council on Libraries, announced that applications are available for the Joseph F. Shubert Library Excellence Award which was established to recognize the achievements of small, medium and large libraries and library consortia in New York State. In 2004, this Award will be co-sponsored by the EBSCO Information Services and funded by that organization in the amount of $1,000.

Members of the 2004 Award Committee are: Dr. Karen Patricia Smith (Chair); Dr. Louis Ciota and Mr. Irving Toliver. The Award, first established in 1994, will honor a library or library consortium that has taken significant steps within the past 2 years to improve the quality of library service to its users.

In 2002, the Council recognized the Albany Public Library for creating the "First Stop/The Next Step" project. The project, which was supported with Federal LSTA funds, demonstrates a unique approach to addressing the needs of those in the community who are in the process of making the transition from incarceration to employment.

Previous applicants are encouraged to re-apply. Previous Award winners may re-apply 3 years after receiving the Award. Projects nominated for the Award should document measurable progress in identifying user needs, taking steps to meet those needs and evaluating the results.

Please visit the web site http://www.nysl.nysed.gov/libdev/adviscns/rac/index.html for a copy of the application, instructions and examples of past winning applications. Please return 4 copies of completed applications and all attachments to the address listed below by May 3, 2004.

You may request copies of the application, instructions and additional information from:

Patty Case
Joseph F. Shubert Library Excellence Award
New York State Library
10D45 Cultural Education Center
Albany, NY 12230
Phone: 518/474-1195; FAX: 518/486-2152; e-mail: pcase@mail.nysed.gov

Grants from Target, Inc.

Target has announced a new grants program, donating between $1,000 and $3,000 to programs in their market communities. Their funding interests are in three areas: early childhood reading (birth to third grade), the arts and family violence prevention. They will accept grant applications between March 1 and May 31, 2004. Applications will be reviewed as they are received; therefore, you are encouraged to apply early. All funding decisions will be communicated no later than September 30, 2004.

For more information and to find the grant application guidelines, please go to: http://target.com/target_group/community_giving/local_giving.jhtml.

Ann Gibson Scholarship

Calling all future youth services librarians! It is time to apply for the Ann Gibson Scholarship. This scholarship is a $1,000 award given annually by the Youth Services Section to honor the memory of Ann Gibson, a storyteller, librarian, and teacher who touched the lives of many. If you are currently enrolled in an MLS program, have completed at least 18 credit hours, and are directing your studies toward youth services in a public or school library, don't delay! There is money available to assist you!

Purpose: To provide financial assistance to a person who has chosen to pursue graduate studies that will lead to New York State certification as a youth specialist in a public library or school library media center.

Deadline: May 31, 2004

Notification: by September 1, 2004

Amount: $1,000

Qualifications:

1. Applicant must be a full-time or part-time graduate library student seeking to further their education in services to young people and have completed a minimum of 18 credit hours towards their MLS.
2. Applicant must be a regular or student member of NYLSA/YSS at the time of submitting the application.
3. Applicant must be directing their course of study toward youth services.
4. Applicant must NOT be an officer or employee, or relative or an officer or employee of the New York Library Association, New York Library Association Council, or the Executive Board of the Youth Services Section of the New York Library Association.
5. Applicant must not have completed their course work prior to December of the year of the award.
6. Applicant must be a resident of, or employed in New York State at the time of the award.

Criteria to Judge Recipient:

1. Two supporting statements that document the applicant's competence and commitment to youth services librarianship.
2. Involvement (i.e. membership, attendance) in organizations, conferences, and publications related to youth services librarianship.
3. A transcript from an accredited library school that documents the applicant's good academic standing and completion of a minimum of 18 credit hours.
4. The applicant, if chosen, must be willing to share their educational experience in some form following the YSS Spring Conference.

Narrative Statement:

Please present a brief statement that cites relevant experience you have had in youth services and your philosophy and/or future goals in terms of youth services librarianship.

Send completed application form, two supporting statements, transcripts, narrative statement, and a photocopy of your current NYLA membership card to:

Cathy Henderson
Seymour Library
161 East Ave.
Brockport, NY 14420
585-637-1050
Fax 585-637-1051
cathyh@frontiernet.net

All applications must be submitted/postmarked no later than May 31, 2004.

Letters About Literature
NY Center for the Book

Students from Bedford, New City, and West Babylon win New York Center for the Book's 2004 Reading Contest

Shannon Barnett of West Babylon was the state winner for grades 4-6 in this year's New York Letters About Literature Contest for her letter to the Caroline B. Cooney, author of Freeze Tag. Cedilla Sachar of Bedford took first place in grades 7-8 for her letter about Gunter Grässe's Tin Drum. The winner for grades 9-12 was Ana Maria Barbas of New City who wrote to Mitch Albom, author of Tuesdays with Morrie.

Letters About Literature is a reading and writing promotion program of the Center for the Book in the Library of Congress, presented in partnership with Target Stores with additional funding provided by educational publisher, Weekly Reader Corporation.

To enter, young readers write a personal letter to an author explaining how his or her work changed their view of the world or themselves. Readers can select authors from any genre-fiction or nonfiction, contemporary or classic. The program has three competition levels: upper elementary (grades 4-6), middle school (7-8), and secondary (9-12). The contest theme encourages young readers to explore their personal responses to a book and then to express that response in a creative, original way.

Children may enter as individuals, as part of school classes, and through their local libraries. Forms for the 2005 contest are available from the New York Center for the Book, Palmer School of Library and Information Science, Long Island University, c/o Bobst Library NYU, 70 Washington Sq. So., New York, NY 10012 (http://www.newyorkbooks.org, email: deirdre.stam@liu.edu, tel. 212-998-2681).

In New York, 1050 children submitted letters to the contest in 2004. Each state winner received a cash prize of $100 plus a $50 gift card to Target Stores. Winning letters from the State contest will be forwarded to the national Letters About Literature competition.

[april 2004][top 2003]

Resources

New York State Historical Association's Catalog Available on the Web

Pathfinder, the online catalog of the Research Library of the New York State Historical Association and The Farmers' Museum, is now available on the web at: http://www.nysha.org/library/.

Named after the principal character in James Fenimore Cooper's novel of the same name, Pathfinder will enable scholars, teachers, students, genealogists, and other researchers to access the Library's catalog via the Internet twenty-four hours a day. Since 1899 the Research Library has developed important collections of primary and secondary source materials in agricultural history, American art and architectural history, genealogy, museum studies, Native American art and culture, and New York State history. The Library's Special Collections Department has a wide variety of materials including rare books, manuscripts, archival collections, maps, broadsides, and ephemera. More information on the library's collections, online resources, and exhibitions is available on our website. Additional records will be added to Pathfinder over the next couple of years as funding for this project becomes available.

For more information about this project, please contact the Research Library staff at 607-547-1470 or send email to library@nysha.org.

The New York State Historical Association is a non-profit, private educational institution which was founded in 1899 in Caldwell (Lake George). The Association moved its headquarters to Ticonderoga in 1926 and to Cooperstown in 1938. During the past 100 years, the Association has preserved tens of thousands of documents, works of art, photographs, and artifacts. The Association operates Fenimore Art Museum and a Research Library in Cooperstown and sponsors statewide educational programming. For information, write or call: NYSHA, PO Box 800, Cooperstown, NY, 13326; (607) 547-1400. The website address is http://www.nysha.org.

Contract Awarded for New ERIC Database

The Department of Education has awarded a $34.6 million contract to build a new database system for ERIC, the world's largest education database. ERIC dates back to 1966 and provides access to educational content for educators, researchers and the general public. The new system, to be built by Computer Sciences Corporation of Rockville, Md., will be designed to provide fast, direct online access to ERIC's more than one million bibliographic records. Users will be able to search on a single Web site for journal articles; abstracts of documents; and, where possible, the full text of articles. The site will also include links to commercial sites where users can purchase full texts.

From Information Today, 29 March 2004 http://www.infotoday.com/newsbreaks/wnd040329.shtml

ALA Privacy Tool Kit

Two more sections of the ALA Privacy Tool Kit have been mounted.

Privacy Tool Kit http://www.ala.org/ala/oif/iftoolkits/toolkitsprivacy/privacy.htm

Introduction http://www.ala.org/ala/oif/iftoolkits/toolkitsprivacy/introduction/introduction.htm

Procedures http://www.ala.org/ala/oif/iftoolkits/toolkitsprivacy/privacyprocedures/procedures.htm

Until the section on Privacy Policy (under construction) is mounted, you may visit

Intellectual Freedom Statements and Policies http://www.ala.org/ala/oif/statementspols/statementspolicies.htm#privacy

and

ALA Privacy Policies and Statements http://www.ala.org/ala/oif/ifissues/issuesrelatedlinks/alaprivacypolicies.htm

New Publication Released by National Center for Education Statistics

NCES has released a new publication. The Status of Public and Private School Library Media Centers in the United States: 1999-2000 summarizes findings from the public and private School Library Media Center Questionnaires, a component of the 1999-2000 Schools and Staffing Survey (SASS). Topics addressed in this report are: characteristics of the library media center, staff characteristics, library expenditures, collection holdings, and library policies.

To download, view and print the report as a pdf file, please visit: http://nces.ed.gov/pubsearch/pubsinfo.asp?pubid=2004313

[april 2004][top 2003]

Future Events

Events to put on your calendar for the days and months ahead

Mandarin User Group Meeting

April 13, 2004
Putnam/Northern Westchester BOCES, 200 BOCES Drive, Yorktown Heights, NY

Copyright Workshop
Presenter: Carol Mann Simpson

April 16, 2004
8:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Rockland BOCES School Library System
66 Parrott Road
West Nyack, NY 10994

The Great New York ReadAloud

Wednesday, April 21, 2004

SLMS Spring Conference 2004

April 29, 30, & May 1, 2004
Adam's Mark Hotel
Buffalo, New York

WLA Annual Conference

May 7, 2004
Westchester Marriot

Council Meetings

May 17, 2004

[april 2004][top 2003]

March 2004

March News

Workshop Announcement
Union Catalog
Legislation
Announcements
Awards, Grants and Scholarships
Resources
Library Related Courses
Future Events

Workshop Announcement

CANCELLED - Library at Purchase College Workshop and Tour - CANCELLED

On Wednesday, March 17th there will be a meeting/workshop for all secondary school librarians at The Library at SUNY Purchase beginning at 2:00 P.M. Rebecca Albrecht, Coordinator of Educational Programs at the Purchase College Library and School Library System Council member, will discuss the challenges facing first year students as they navigate the maze of electronic and print resources available in a college library. School library media specialists will have an opportunity to discuss the varied types of bibliographic instruction occurring in their secondary schools. A tour of the SUNY Purchase library and its resources are also part of the program.

Please contact Janet Jamal at the School Library System office at (telephone) 345-8500, ext. 122; (fax) 592-4438; or e-mail jjamal@swboces.org regarding your attendance.

Directions to Purchase College, SUNY, can be found at http://www.purchase.edu/admissions/adm_vis_directions.asp.

[march 2004][top 2003]

Union Catalog

New Union Catalog for the Southern Westchester School Library System

In order for the Southern Westchester BOCES Union Catalog to be an important resource for System participants, it must reflect the current holdings of our school libraries. After much discussion on the options for achieving this goal, it has been decided to mount a new Union Catalog using Open Source Software. As a result of this project, point-to-point interlibrary loan requests will be handled electronically. This feature will allow school librarians greater access to a wide variety of resources while decreasing the time spent in securing the materials. The assistance of all school library media specialists is needed to accomplish this task.

Each automated school library has been requested to forward its MARC records either (a) electronically via ftp or (b) e-mail as an attachment. Information has been distributed to all participants in the Southern Westchester BOCES School Library System. The School Library System has set March 15, 2004 as the deadline for the completion of this phase of the project.

For libraries that are not yet automated, information is also being collected on the status of their collections. This information will help in future planning for the School Library System.

If you have any questions or need additional information, please contact Judy Robinson either by telephone, 345-8500, ext. 158 or e-mail, jrobinson@swboces.org.

Our goal is to have responses from every library within the School Library System. The outcome will benefit all our members.

[march 2004][top 2003]

Legislation

The Road to Albany

The Westchester Library Association will again sponsor its annual bus trip to Albany on Tuesday, March 16th in support of the New York Library Association's (NYLA) Ledge Day. The bus will leave the Marriott Hotel, Tarrytown promptly at 8:00 A.M and return at approximately 5:30 P.M. The cost for the trip is $15.00.

Information and a registration form can be found on the WLA website, http://www.wliba.org. For additional information about the trip contact Van Kozelka, at the Katonah Village Library, (914)232-3508.

The Library Legislative Day event this year is a LIBRARY RAVE. Beginning at 11:00 A.M. the library community is invited to come together at the Empire State Convention Center in Meeting Room 6 on the Concourse level. Legislators have been invited to meet with various delegations from across the State. Key legislative members, including, Speaker Silver, Senator Bruno, Assembly member Sandy Galef and Senator Farley will address the group at 11:30 A.M. This is our opportunity to impress them with the number of library supporters who have traveled to Albany to RAVE about libraries.

Why should I travel to Albany to talk with my legislators about library issues?

· Libraries need you to speak out for them.
· Libraries need more state money.
· Legislators need to learn what libraries do for the citizens of New York State especially K - 12 students.

Who will gain?

· All New York libraries and citizens.
· All libraries and systems which receive direct state aid.
· Many libraries and systems which receive indirect state aid through the cooperative services and shared programs from their library system.
· Legislators who need to understand how libraries can help them.

How do I do this?

· Call you legislators' offices, either at home or in Albany. (This includes both Senate and Assembly representatives)
· Make an appointment to speak to them directly.
· Tell him/her how important your library is to the students it serves.
· Tell him/her that increased funding for libraries is essential and critical if our students are to be informed and literate citizens of the 21st century.

This is an opportunity to speak out for additional funding for aid for library systems and for the electronic resources provided through NOVEL. Be part of the solution.

(Information from the NYLA web site http://www.nyla.org)

Many Voices, One Message

Library supporters from across New York State are coming together to urge the state legislature to restore the $4.4 million that would be lost under the executive budget's proposed 5 percent reduction in state aid to libraries. Results of this decrease in state aid include:

· State funding for libraries would be pushed back to 1997 levels.
· The proposed cut is $4.4 million, or 5% from $89 million to $8.4 million.
· New York's libraries will lose $450,000 in federal support as the cut in State funds generates a comparable 5% cut in Federal Library Services and Technology Act funds.
· Library users at 4,600 libraries statewide will lose access to NOVEL, New York's first electronic virtual library, as state cuts generate cuts to federal funds. NOVEL levels the information playing field by providing easy and fast access to state of the art information on education, health, business and research - regardless of income level, community resources, geographical locations or other barriers.

Library use has surged 20% statewide, yet State funding lags behind

· State funding for libraries and library systems has stagnated.
· Libraries' buying power has plummeted as costs for materials have soared.
· Even with restoration of these proposed reductions, New York's libraries are still not receiving the full State funding provided for in the law ($91.3 million).
· Current State funding for libraries represents less than one-tenth of one percent of the entire state budget.

Check out the School Library Systems Association Advocacy Tool Kit on our web site http://www2.lhric.org/libsys/recommended/recommended_websites.html and become involved. Your message to your legislators: restore state aid to libraries and support New Century Libraries - a $107 million proposal from the Board of Regents to provide ongoing, improved funding for libraries of all types in communities across New York State - so that your students will have the library services and support they need in the 21st century.

[march 2004][top 2003]

Announcements

Staff Analysis of the SFY ... Executive Budget

Annually, after the release by the Governor of the Executive Budget, the Senate Finance Committee issues the 'Staff Analysis of the SFY ... Executive Budget.' This publication was previously know as the 'Executive Budget Fiscal Overview.' "It is intended to assist the members of the Finance Committee and the Senate as a whole, in their deliberations."

Senate documents are available online from the Senate internet site http://www.senate.state.ny.us under the "Senate Reports" link. Since 1996, the New York State Library has produced digital scanned copies of NYS paper documents as an alternative to microfiche. The 'Staff Analysis' is available from the New York State Library's digital media management system at http://purl.org/net/nysl/nysdocs/38982917, the most recent three editions fully key-word searchable.

Teacher Review Committees for the Regents

While applications are welcome for all teachers of subjects of the Regents exams, there is a very urgent need for teachers of German, Hebrew, Italian and Latin for the June administration of Comprehensive Regents Exams in these subjects.

A review committee should consist of three (the minimum) to five teachers with three alternates who can step in if, at the last minute, a selected teacher cannot participate. So, a pool of at least 10-15 teachers to select from is needed. More would be better.

Ideally these teachers should be certified in the target language and have been teaching in the target language in the classroom for the last three years. Another requirement is that the teacher not have worked as a consultant in the Office of State Assessment in the last three years.

The listed deadline for accepting applications is March 15, but applications will continue to be accepted through March 31st. It is anticipated that committees will convene between April 12 and May 17.

Teachers receive a honorarium of $150 for the day and their travel costs are reimbursed.

Teachers need only apply once. If an applicant has not been selected as a teacher for a committee, their application remains in the active pool for selection for a future review.

Applications can be found at http://www.emsc.nysed.gov/osa/Important%20Notices/Teacher%20Review%20Committee%20Application.htm. Further information regarding the qualifications for the Teacher Review Committees can be found at http://www.emsc.nysed.gov/osa/Important%20Notices/High%20School%20Teachers%20Needed-web%20notice-.htm.

[march 2004][top 2003]

Awards, Grants and Scholarships

Joseph F. Shubert Library Excellence Award

The Joseph F. Shubert Library Excellence Award recognizes achievements by New York State libraries and library consortia of all sizes and types. Named after Joseph F. Shubert, former State Librarian, the Award is given to individual libraries and to library consortia to recognize achievements that improve the quality of library service to their users. The Joseph F. Shubert Library Excellence Award recognizes that attainment of excellence often happens in small steps; is a process, not a final product; and focuses on meeting user needs. Yet, the result of the process assures a comprehensive approach to excellence in libraries and information services.

This year's Award to an individual library or library consortia will include a prize of $1,000 supplied by EBSCO Information Services, this year's co-sponsor for the honor. Other notable projects will also be recognized and honored for their achievements.

For information on previous winners and detailed information on the award as well as the application form, please visit the website at: http://www.nysl.nysed.gov/libdev/adviscns/rac/award/. Applications must be postmarked by May 3, 2004.

Grants from Target, Inc.

Target has announced a new grants program, donating between $1,000 and $3,000 to programs in their market communities. Their funding interests are in three areas: early childhood reading (birth to third grade), the arts and family violence prevention. They will accept grant applications between March 1 and May 31, 2004. Applications will be reviewed as they are received; therefore, you are encouraged to apply early. All funding decisions will be communicated no later than September 30, 2004.

For more information and to find the grant application guidelines, please go to: http://target.com/target_group/community_giving/local_giving.jhtml.

Get on Board and Read

April is the deadline to "Get on Board and Read"

Now is the time to remind teens that they only have until April 24 to submit an entry in the "Get on Board and Read @ your library" program for their chance to win an opportunity to meet pro skateboarder Tony Hawk.

To enter, teens between the ages of 12-18 select a book from the library and create an entry about the message of the book and why it's meaningful to them. Entries may be submitted in a written essay or a creative entry consisting of a poem, painting or video, and may be created individually or as a team. Each teen or team must have their librarian sponsor them in the contest by having the librarian fill out a sponsor form.

More teen entries can win librarians special incentives, too. Incentives include 20 HERSHEY'S Milk coupons for librarians who submit at least 5 teen entries; 50 t-shirts for those who submit 15 to 24 entries; and an autographed poster of Tony Hawk as well as t-shirts for 25 or more entries. Librarians who also submit a report on how they promoted the program, along with sample publicity materials and at least five teen entries, will be entered into a drawing for a $100 gift bookstore gift certificate.

One of the most effective ways to jump-start the program is to collaborate with teachers in your school or at schools in your area. Let them know about the program. Provide flyers or posters for them to hang in their classrooms. Suggest that they talk about the program in class and even make it a class assignment.

All of the information about the program, including free online tools to help promote it, are available on the "Get on Board and Read @ your library" website at http://www.hersheysmilk.com/getonboard.

Are you on board? ALA would love to hear how you've been promoting the program! Send an e-mail to atyourlibrary@ala.org.

BCALA-Wiley Black Books Galore Contest

The Black Caucus of the American Library Association (BCALA) and John Wiley & Sons, Inc. are proud to announce a contest to support the most creative public and school library programs which raise awareness and interest in African American children’s literature.

Using titles from Wiley’s Black Books Galore! Guide to Great African American Children’s Books, the winning entries will reflect original creative programming that increases community involvement and sparks the interest of children, parents, caregivers, and teachers in African American life and culture. Examples of programs may include: storytime, parent/teacher workshop, intergenerational event, or other innovative programs.

Additional information can be found at the website: http://www.blackbooksgalore.com/contest_03.html

Technology Grant News - Spring 2004

For Libraries:

Outstanding Library Advocates & Service Grants

For NonProfits:

American NonProfit Technology Alliance Grants

Cisco Academy Grants

CTCNET Youth Vision Grants

Digital Partners

Harbinger Partners

Handspring

NTIA Technology Opportunities Program Grants

For Schools:

AMD Grants

American Honda Grants

DirectTV Goes to School Program

Dell TechKnow Program

Educational Partnerships

Excellence in Teaching Awards

Horace Mann Teacher Grants

NCTM Future Teachers

Articles:

"New Journals Explore New Approaches to Technology"

For more information visit:
http://www.technologygrantnews.com/network-funding-subscribe.html
or contact us at:
service@technologygrantnews.com

Grant Indexes
Ten (10) new Grant Indexes research different sectors:
Grants for Cities
Corporate Grants
Educational Technology Grants
Federal Grants
Higher Education Grants
K-12 Grants
Library & Museum Grants
Non Profit Grants
Science Education Grants
Vocational Education Grants

For more information visit:
http://www.technologygrantnews.com/grant-money-index-type.html

[march 2004][top 2003]

Resources

E-mail address for NOVEL Help Desk

The generic e-mail address for the NOVEL Help Desk is: nyslnovel@mail.nysed.gov

On Line Marshall Cavendish

For a sixty day free trial of the following package of three on-line databases from Marshall Cavendish:

Wildlife Reference Center including the wildlife and plants of the world as well as the endangered wildlife and plants
Science Reference Center including the environment Encyclopedia as well as the life/physical and technology sciences
Multicultural Reference Center including the African American encyclopedia as well as the North American Indians

Please contact Janet Jamal at 345-8500 ext. 122 to obtain a password.

[march 2004][top 2003]

Library Related Courses

Distance Learning from METRO

METRO has received an LSTA grant to introduce various forms of distance learning to their members. As reflected in studies by the American Society for Training and Development, distance learning has become an increasingly important method of delivery for continuing education in all professional fields.

As part of the grant METRO is sponsoring three web-delivered conferences on the following topics:

How Good is Your Website? Testing the usability of your library's web presence
Making Online Bibliographic Instruction Work
Digital Customer Service

METRO has also purchased seats for online learning at Element K, which specializes in computer training, and Ninth House, which specializes in management training. Element K offerings include A+ certification, SQL, ColdFusion, and Linux classes. Ninth House offerings include classes in Navigating Change, Managing Change, and Situational Leadership. For registration and a complete listing of classes go to their website at http://www.metro.org/programs_distance.html.

[march 2004][top 2003]

Future Events

Events to put on your calendar for the days and months ahead

NYLA Library Lobby Day 2004

March 16, 2004
Albany, NY

Library at Purchase College Workshop and Tour - CANCELLED

March 17, 2004
Purchase College, Purchase, NY

2004 SLMSSENY SPRING CONFERENCE

"MEASURING SUCCESS IN YOUR LIBRARY"

Friday, March 26, 2004
8:00am - 3:30 pm
Tarrytown Hilton
Tarrytown, NY

Mandarin User Group Meeting

March 29, 2004
Southern Westchester BOCES, 2 Westchester Plaza, Elmsford, NY

Mandarin User Group Meeting

April 13, 2004
Putnam/Northern Westchester BOCES, 200 BOCES Drive, Yorktown Heights, NY

Copyright Workshop
Presenter: Carol Mann Simpson

April 16, 2004
8:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Rockland BOCES School Library System
66 Parrott Road
West Nyack, NY 10994

The Great New York ReadAloud

Wednesday, April 21, 2004

SLMS Spring Conference 2004

April 29, 30, & May 1, 2004
Adam's Mark Hotel
Buffalo, New York

Council Meetings

March 22, 2004
May 17, 2004

[march 2004][top 2003]

February 2004

February News

Announcements
Awards, Grants and Scholarships
Resources
Future Events

Announcements

Executive Budget Proposes 5% Cut in State Funding for Libraries

Governor Pataki has recommended a decrease in library funding in his Executive Budget proposal that was released on January 20, 2004. Again a grassroots effort is needed, if the New York State Legislature is to override the Governor, as it did in 2003. One of our local Assembly representatives is Sandy Galef, who is presently Chairing the Assembly Library and Education Technology committee. Assembly Speaker Silver's office reports that letters from Assembly members to his office were essential in restoring the proposed cut in library funding last year. The deadline for letters from Assembly members to the Speaker this year is February 12th. These crucial letters are written by members of the Assembly in response to requests from constituents and advocacy groups to include particular issues.

New York State Senate members need to be contacted regarding these cuts. The Senate Library Subcommittee is seeking input from the library community on the issues. Senate Library Subcommittee members include Senators Farley (Chair of the subcommittee), Saland (Education Committee Chair), Leibell, Marchi and Montgomery.

Information on legislators is available on the Senate website http://www.senate.state.ny.us/ and the Assembly website http://www.assembly.state.ny.us/.

Priority Issues for Libraries:

-Restoration of library funding cut by the Executive Budget proposal
-Funding needed ($2.6 million) to fully implement 2000 census and stabilize State funding for libraries and library systems.
-Start of funding for "New Century Libraries," focusing on NOVEL (New York Online Virtual Electronic Library)

The New York State Library website http://www.nysl.nysed.gov and the New York Library Association website http://www.nyla.org are good sources of information.

The following Questions and Answers will provide the information needed for your advocacy efforts.

Executive Budget Cuts to Libraries
Questions and Answers

Q. Why do New Yorkers need libraries?

A. We live in an information society. Information is the currency we all work with. Libraries provide access to the information New Yorkers need for education, business, and functioning in society, regardless of how much money they make, or the wealth or geographic isolation of their community.

Library use is up 20 percent as New Yorkers turn more and more to their libraries for the information they need.

Libraries are critical to education:

-Scientific studies of thousands of school libraries across the nation and in Canada have shown that students perform better when they have access to an effective school library program.
-Reading scores rise 10 to 20 percent with increased levels of professional and support staff, size and quality of the library collections, participation in school library systems, and access to Internet resources such as those accessible through NOVEL, the New York Online Virtual Electronic Library. Improvements in achievement stand in spite of factors such as poverty level, parent education level, teacher-pupil ratio, and per-pupil spending.
-Public libraries and school libraries are important education partners; public libraries provide students with after-school homework help, research resources, and summer reading programs.

Q. What is the Executive Budget Proposal for state funding for libraries for 2004?

A. The Executive Budget proposal, released on January 20, recommends a 5-percent reduction of $4.4 million in state funding for libraries. The Executive's proposal, if adopted by the Legislature, would further reduce state funding for libraries from the $89 million provided in 2003 to $84.4 million. The full level of state funding for libraries outlined in law is $91.3 million.

In addition, the Executive Budget proposes the continuation of a 15-percent reduction in $3 million in special state funding for two library service programs provided by The New York Public Library to the struggling urban business community and to City University of New York students and faculty. This cut amounts to $450,000.

Even with restoration of these proposed reductions, New York's libraries are still not receiving the full state funding provided for in the law ($91.3 million). Libraries, particularly those in urban areas, are facing increasing demands for services from growing populations. A $2.6 million increase in state funding is needed to fully implement the 2000 census and to stablilize the formulas in the law.

The Executive Budget proposal is online at http://www.budget.state.ny.us.

Q. If everything else in the budget is being cut because of the state's budget deficit, why shouldn't libraries give up their fair share?

A. The proposal reduces state funding to libraries by a significant amount. State funding for libraries has been stagnant for seven years, and purchasing power for libraries is down 20 percent. The proposed 5-percent cut would reduce library funding to 1997 levels, which can't support the rapid expansion in information technology and the recent 20-percent statewide surge in library use.

A recent Marist Poll shows that New Yorkers, along with all Americans, value their libraries and are willing to pay more to have strong, effective libraries in their schools and communities.

Q. Libraries already receive substantial state funding, so why can't they sustain a small cut?

A. Libraries do not receive substantial state funding. When you consider that per-capita public support for many public libraries is as low as $2, with less than 10 percent coming from the state, you can see how little support that $89 million in state funds actually provides. Current state funding for libraries represents less than one-tenth of one percent of the entire state budget.

Q. As long as libraries receive local and federal support, why can't they rely on those sources instead of state funds?

A. The amount of federal support New York's libraries receive is determined by the amount of state support they receive. Any cut in state aid will generate significant cuts in federal library funds and threaten the library services New Yorkers rely on.

State funds support an infrastructure of library systems that provide cooperative, coordinated services to more than 6,300 local public, school, and academic libraries. Without the economies of scale provided by the library systems, local libraries would have to pay on average three to four times as much to maintain current services.

Q. Since education is so important, shouldn't we focus more on school funding than on library funding?

A. Libraries are essential partners in education. Strong libraries are an investment in tomorrow's business leaders and workforce. Studies show that effective school libraries are positively correlated with higher levels of student achievement. This is true regardless of variables such as family income and class size.

-Studies in more than 12 states, including Colorado, Alaska, and Pennsylvania, show that school libraries play an undeniable role in improving student achievement and closing the achievement gap.
-The recent Court of Appeals decision on state funding of public schools recognized the connection between school libraries and learning; it urged the state to provide funding for up-to-date libraries as one important means of achieving equitable access to a sound basic education.
-Research studies show that library reading programs, particularly summer reading programs, enhance student achievement.
-Library toddler and preschool programs help to ensure that youngsters are ready to learn and achieve when they enter school.
-New Americans turn to public libraries for literacy programs that help them learn English and obtain the language skills they need to enter the job market.
-Libraries provide family literacy programs that enable adults to improve their reading and conversation skills.
-Academic libraries provide crucial research resources to college and university students.

Q. Why do we need online services like NOVEL when we have the Internet?

A. The glut of information on the Internet is confusing and overwhelming to most people, and Internet users turn to librarians as information professionals, advisors, and instructors.

-Unlike the often chaotic Internet, NOVEL provides high-quality, up-to-date information-age resources evaluated by librarians-information that is critical to health, business, education, and quality of life.
-The cost of online magazines and databases is prohibitive to most individuals and many businesses.
-NOVEL, available through their local, school and public libraries, evens the playing field for New Yorkers who lack access to online resources at home or at work.
-While 41.5 percent of American households have Internet access, the digital divide remains:

• 73 percent of people with a disability do not have Internet access.
• 76 percent of minority households do not have Internet access.
• More than 64 percent of single-parent households do not have home Internet access.
• More than 77 percent of single-parent households headed by females in central cities do not have home Internet access.

Q. What are some of the points I can make when I talk with decision-makers about the importance of state support for NOVEL and New Century Libraries in 2004?

A. New Century Libraries will provide ongoing support of $14 million a year for NOVEL. Here are some important points about NOVEL:

- NOVEL is a powerful online library that gives all New Yorkers full access to thousands of national and international newspapers and magazines, health and medical magazines and resources, and valuable business and investment information at no cost through public, school, and college libraries. More than 4,600 libraries now participate in NOVEL.
- NOVEL is particularly important to school libraries. It provides every school with a top-quality online library. Without NOVEL, the average school library has 25 magazine subscriptions; with NOVEL, that number jumps to 300 subscriptions.
- NOVEL is an excellent investment. Collective purchasing results in enormous savings to localities. For each dollar invested in NOVEL at the state level, a local library would have to pay $30 to receive the same resources. Most libraries would never be able to afford the NOVEL resources on their own.
- NOVEL is currently supported by temporary federal funds through the Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA). Because New York State is losing population and LSTA funds are allocated on the basis of population, we expect to lose some funding. Without state funding for NOVEL, we may need to eliminate important resources.

Kindersite Project

The kindersite Project is now adding more content to the hundreds of items already listed on the site (a quick description of the Kindersite can be found below).

New content suggestions along the following lines would be welcome.

1. It must be usable through the Internet (i.e. CD-ROMs & software downloads are out)
2. It has to be suitable for children between the ages of 2 to 8 years old (multi-cultural, multi-ethnicity)
3. It should be a game, story, or song with an educational focus, though for the youngest groups this is less relevent
4. It must be content that does NOT require any payment to use
5. If you could grade the content that would be appreciated - For example, suitable for 6/7 years, a game etc.

Description :
The Kindersite Project at http://www.kindersite.org is a non-profit, academic research project that uses a free Internet site, with thousands of items of content, to study early learners adaptation to and use of technology. The research aim is to find out how, if and when technology should be introduced to early learners. Hundreds of schools and kindergartens around the globe, now use the Kindersite as a learning resource.

If you are interested in making a contribution to the Kindersite project please email: info@kindersite.org

Field Observation Venues

In an effort to support their Library Media Specialist students in their New York State field observation requirement, Pratt Institute is compiling a list of library media centers in the New York Metropolitan region that would welcome their students for field observations.

If you have conducted field observations and would welcome student observers, please contact Linda Z. Cooper, Ph.D., M.L.S., M.S.Edu., Assistant Professor, at lcooper@pratt.edu.

[february 2004][top 2003]

Awards, Grants and Scholarships

2004 Intellectual Freedom Award

The Intellectual Freedom Committee of New York Library Association is calling for nominations for the 20th annual Intellectual Freedom Award. Nominees can be individuals or groups in New York State who have met and resisted attempts at censorship or have otherwise furthered the cause of intellectual freedom. Those submitting names for consideration for this award should provide the following information about the nominee:

-the duration of the nominee's support of intellectual freedom
-the incidents that are especially noteworthy
-support from local and state organizations, community members and others
-relevant supportive data such as newspaper articles, letters of recommendation, etc.
-names, addresses and phone numbers of two people who will be contacted to provide evidence and support for this nomination

Please note that members of NYLA's Intellectual Freedom Committee are not eligible for this award.

This award will be presented at the NYLA Conference, in Rochester, on October 22, 2004.

Forms can be obtained from the NYLA office or downloaded from NYLA's web sit and mailed by June 15, 2004 to:

Ellen Rubin
29 Queen Anne Lane
Wappingers Falls, NY 12590
845-221-0249

[february 2004][top 2003]

Resources

"State of the State"

The Governor's "State of the State" address was previously known as the "Message to the Legislature." It is an annual publication presently read at the New York State Capitol to a joint session of the Legislature and a television and internet audience. The text is published online by Office of the Governor http://www.state.ny.us/governor. The printed booklet is a New York State paper-document depository item.

Since 1996, the New York State Library has produced digital scanned copies of NYS paper documents as an alternative to microfiche. Recently, the TIFF images that you have been accessing remotely were converted to PDF. The NYSL selectively collects digital copies of new reports published in PDF and adds them to the New York State Library's digital media management system http://www.nysl.nysed.gov/library/ann/dmmsann.htm.

The most recent eight "State of the State" addresses are available from the New York State Library's digital media management system http://purl.org/net/nysl/nysdocs/38582224.

This notice is one in a series of regular announcements that the New York State Library is posting to NYLINE to improve access to New York State government information. These messages contain a brief description of a New York State document of interest and links to related online information.

Access to NewsBank's Programs

The following NewsBank Databases are available on a trial basis until March 12, 2004.

NewsBank's Subject Program, Kidspage and the Journal News

Please contact Janet Jamal at 345-8500 ext. 122 to obtain your username and password.

Directions after obtaining username and password:

1. Log onto any Internet Service Provider and using any standard web browser (i.e. Netscape or Internet Explorer) type this web address in lower-case letters with no spaces: http://infoweb.newsbank.com then press enter.

2. Type the username and password in lower-case letters, with no spaces.

3. Press enter or OK.

** (You might "Bookmark" this address for future use.)

[february 2004][top 2003]

Future Events

Events to put on your calendar for the days and months ahead

NOVEL Databases

Date: TBA
Scarsdale High School, Scarsdale, NY

Mandarin User Group Meeting

POSTPONED TO MARCH 29 - February 6, 2004
Southern Westchester BOCES, 2 Westchester Plaza, Elmsford, NY

NYLA Library Lobby Day 2004

March 16, 2004
Albany, NY

2004 SLMSSENY SPRING CONFERENCE

"MEASURING SUCCESS IN YOUR LIBRARY"

Friday, March 26, 2004
8:00am - 3:30 pm
Tarrytown Hilton
Tarrytown, NY

Copyright Workshop
Presenter: Carol Mann Simpson

April 16, 2004
Rockland BOCES School Library System
66 Parrott Road
West Nyack, NY 10994

The Great New York ReadAloud

Wednesday, April 21, 2004

SLMS Spring Conference 2004

April 29, 30, & May 1, 2004
Adam's Mark Hotel
Buffalo, New York

Council Meetings

March 22, 2004
May 17, 2004

[february 2004][top 2003]

January 2004

January News

Announcements
Awards, Grants and Scholarships
Resources
Future Events

Announcements

Uncertain Future for NOVEL Databases

NOVEL (New York Online Virtual Electronic Library) databases might have to be cut at the end of 2004 if additional funds are not supplied by the State of New York. With expected reductions in federal LSTA funds to New York for Fiscal Year 2003/2004, enactment of the permanent annual state funding included in the Regents New Century Libraries budget and legislative proposal will be necessary to sustain and expand NOVEL.

More than 4,600 public, school, college, and research libraries now participate in NOVEL. Databases at risk include health, business, newspapers, literature, general, K-12, and Spanish language resources.

For more information, see http://www.nysl.nysed.gov/library/novel/dbfuture.htm for a full version of the fact sheet.

NOVEL-DB Digest

The NOVEL Help Desk has recently been informed by the Gale Company that the Gannett newspapers will be dropped from their InfoTrac Custom Newspaper Database effective January 1, 2004.

This decision involves the following New York State newspapers:
The Journal News (Westchester)
The Press & Sun-Bulletin (Binghamton)
The Rochester Democrat and Chronicle (Rochester)

To help fill the gap created by the elimination of the Gannett newspapers, Gale will be adding selected business and news stories from several Knight-Ridder/Tribune newspapers that are part of their news wire service.
The New York newspapers involved are:
The New York Daily News
The Buffalo News

For more information and a list involving the newspapers that will be added and dropped, please go to the website: http://www.gale.com/Gannett

If you have further questions concerning this topic, please contact the NOVEL Help Desk by calling 877-277-0250 (toll free) or 486-6012 (Capital area), 9 - 4pm Monday thru Friday. An e-mail can also be sent to the Help Desk at NYSLNOVEL@mail.nysed.gov

Global History and Geography Survey

The New York State Education Department and the State's Social Studies professional organizations are requesting response to a Global History and Geography survey. The purpose of this survey is to identify local curriculum models and analyze their impact on student achievement. We are requesting one survey response per high school building. Data results from this survey will NOT be reported on individual buildings. The intent is to share local initiatives which have proven successful.

The survey is now on-line! You can read the cover letter and complete the survey anytime between December 24, 2003 - February 13, 2004 at http://www.emsc.nysed.gov/ciai/socst/ghgsurvey.htm.

Marist Institute Poll Shows Powerful Public Support for Library Services

Dr. Lee Miringoff, Director of the Marist College Institute for Public Opinion, conducted a poll from October 27 through 29, 2003. The objective of the poll was to gather information on what library services are important to the public and how willing people are to approve extra tax monies for libraries to obtain those services.

The Public Library: A National Survey confirms and updates the findings of two Zogby International polls done for the New York Library Association in 2002 and a statewide survey conducted for the Regents Commission on Library Services in 1999.

The Marist poll, consisting of 1,004 telephone interviews, reported these findings:
· How valuable is having access to a public library in your community? 67% very valuable; 27% valuable.
· Do you support or oppose an increase in taxes to support public library services in your community? 31% strongly support; 32% support.
· How much would you be willing to pay in added taxes each year to support public library services in your community? Average tax increase Americans are willing to pay: $49.
· When rating library services within the community, respondents identified the following priorities: reading programs for children; open hours on evenings and weekends; computers for public use; homework help centers; programs for senior citizens; staff to help with computers; access to reference help by phone, fax, or email; access to other government services in the library building; cultural programs or exhibits; audio books on tape/CDs; indexing of local newspapers; rooms for community meetings; book discussion groups; movies or DVDs. A link to a PowerPoint presentation on the Marist poll is available on the Mid-Hudson Library System website at http://midhudson.org/funding/advocacy/Marist_Poll_2003.ppt.

The Marist poll data were weighted to reflect the population of the entire United States. The Zogby polls and the Regents Commission survey sampled New York State residents, and in many cases showed even greater support for libraries.

Results of Zogby Polls:
· 95% of respondents said their library was "important" to them. 71% said the library was "very important" to them.
· More than 75% of respondents were willing to increase their taxes to improve support for libraries (October 2002). Across all geographic regions, and from all segments of the population regardless of income, gender, or age, people were willing to support increased taxes if it meant increases in library funding.
· 89% of respondents felt it was "important" that state government provide more funding for libraries (January 2002). More than half (52%) said it was "very important" that state government provide more funding for libraries.

Briefly, the Regents Commission survey of 1,004 adults in April 1999 found the following:
· New Yorkers use their libraries in numbers well above the national average (73% of households).
· Local public libraries are very important to the quality of community life.
· Priorities include statewide access to library resources throughout the state; increased use of technology, including Internet access to their library from home; library programs in local community centers; database searching services; homework tutors for students; and non-English library programs.
· 67% of respondents would double financial support for libraries, increasing spending from the New York State average of $32.17 per capita to an average of $64.07. For more detailed information on the Regents Commission survey, go to http://www.nysl.nysed.gov:80/rcols/finalrpt.htm#Appendixb.

Such strong evidence of public support for libraries is critically important for those who are working to convince our elected officials of the value and importance of libraries and the need for increased aid to libraries through the "New Century Libraries" legislative initiative. For more information on "New Century Libraries," visit the New York State Library website at http://www.ncl.nysed.gov. Information and materials on library advocacy are available on the New York Library Association website at http://www.nyla.org.

[january 2004][top 2003]

Awards, Grants and Scholarships

We The People Bookshelf Grants Available

The American Library Association (ALA) Public Programs Office and the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) are accepting applications from public and school (K-12) libraries for We The People Bookshelf grants. Part of NEH's We The People initiative, the Bookshelf project will award the sets of 15 books for young readers to 500 libraries across the country. Selected libraries are required to present programs that highlight the theme of courage and encourage young readers to explore these works.

Libraries interested in receiving the We The People Bookshelf grant can view the application and guidelines at http://www.ala.org/wethepeople or http://www.wethepeople.gov. Applications are being accepted online until February 15, 2004.

BOCES Media Technology Association Scholarship

The intent of the New York State BOCES Media Technology Association (NYS BMTA) Memorial Scholarship Fund is to provide an annual stipend in the amount of $1,000 to assist a student planning a career in the field of instructional technology. The fund is intended for students enrolled in a graduate or under-graduate program leading to a degree or certification. Only students enrolled in colleges in the State of New York are eligible to apply. The money is non-designated; it may be used for tuition, fees, book, research projects or other expenses. There is no obligation to pay back the stipend but, as with funds of this type, a contribution once the recipient's career is in progress assures the continuation of the Memorial Scholarship Fund to assist others. Preference will be given to those students able to demonstrate need, scholarship, and a desire to conduct their professional life in New York State. The requirements are listed on each application. Applications are due by May 1, 2004.

3M Salute to Schools - Grant Opportunity

School libraries may apply now for valuable detection systems.

In these days of limited budgets, updating school library materials available for students can be a challenge. School library media specialists can help reduce the loss of valuable library resources by applying now for the 2004 3M Salute to Schools program, which will provide $1.5 million worth of much-needed security products to 100 schools across the country selected by the American Association of School Librarians (AASL), a division of the American Library Association.

3M will provide up to two 3M Detection Systems for the entrance/exit of the school's library media center and a supply of Tattle-Tape Security Strips for marking print material (i.e., books) -- a package with an average value of about $15,000.

3M Salute to Schools is open to middle and high schools in the United States. Individual donations will vary depending upon specific needs of the library media center, such as the size of a collection and the physical layout. To be considered for the donation, a school must meet eligibility requirements and be able to demonstrate a need for a detection system.

Applications are available online at http://www.ala.org/aasl or http://www.3M.com/us/library. All applications must be postmarked by March 1, 2004. Recipients will be announced in early April.

3M and AASL share a strong commitment to education and value investing in the nation's schools. Now in its fifth year, 3M Salute to Schools is sponsored by 3M, in partnership with the American Association of School Librarians. In 2003, 3M donated $1.5 million worth of its detection systems to 100 schools selected by AASL.

"Protecting a school's most valuable learning tools is an ongoing challenge for a library media center with limited resources and no proven security," says Don Leslie, 3M Security Systems. "One of the fundamental goals of 3M Salute to Schools is to enhance education by making detection systems more available to schools that might not otherwise have the resources to purchase them."

"Research shows the highest-achieving students attend schools with good library media programs, and available library resources when needed, contributes to the overall improvement of library media services for young people," says Frances Roscello, president of AASL. "AASL is pleased to again partner with 3M to help school libraries preserve these resources for students throughout the country."

The global leader in library security for more than 30 years, 3M protects literally billions of individual items in thousands of libraries throughout the world. For more information about the 2004 3M Salute to Schools program, contact the AASL Awards Program at 800-545-2433, ext. 4383, or http://ala.org/.

3M's Contributions Program is made up of cash and in-kind gifts made by 3M and the 3M Foundation and bolstered by employee and retiree volunteerism. 3M grants and product donations work together to improve the academic achievement of children.

The American Association of School Librarians (AASL), a division of the American Library Association, promotes the improvement of library media services in elementary and secondary schools as a means of strengthening the total education program. Its mission is to advocate excellence, facilitate change, and develop leaders in the school library media field.

[january 2004][top 2003]

Resources

NOVEL Tool Kit Now Available on New York State Library Website

A tool kit is now available online to help librarians and library supporters publicize, explain, and demonstrate the features of NOVEL (New York Online Virtual Electronic Library). Located at http://www.nysl.nysed.gov/library/novel/toolkit/index.html, the kit includes presentations, publications for downloading and printing, and other helpful components that are appropriate for a variety of audiences.

The following are brief descriptions of the NOVEL Tool Kit components:

Printed Information (in PDF format):
* NOVEL @ your library (tri-fold brochure)
* NOVEL Fact Sheet
* New Century Libraries NOVEL fact sheet (also in HTML)
* NOVEL Database Fact Sheets, including a database overview,
EBSCO databases, and Gale databases
Note: Limited quantities of the NOVEL brochure are available in hardcopy. To request copies, email Julie Chiplock at jchiploc@mail.nysed.gov. Please provide your name, mailing address, and the number of copies needed (limit 100 per request).

NOVEL Logo and Bookmark
* Link to NOVEL (an easy-to-use link to copy into your web server); includes a credit paragraph that you should copy or abbreviate for use on your library's web page
* Bookmark (easily downloadable image that you can save and print to publicize NOVEL in your library)

NOVEL Presentations:
* "Talking Points" for a NOVEL Presentation (questions and answers that provide a thorough overview of the NOVEL initiative) NOVEL PowerPoint Presentations
* Brief Overview of NOVEL and the NOVEL Database Program (16 slides); also in PDF format
* Comprehensive Overview of NOVEL, the NOVEL Database Program, and the NOVEL/New Century Libraries legislative proposal (25 slides); also in PDF format
* General Overview of NOVEL for general audiences (20 slides); also in PDF format

Charts and Graphs:
* Libraries and Systems Registered for NOVEL Databases (where we are now and our goal for 2004); also in PDF format
* Numbers of database searches per year 1999-2003; also in PDF format

If you have questions on the NOVEL Tool Kit components and their uses, contact Marilyn Douglas, New York State Library, at (518) 486-4927 or mdouglas@mail.nysed.gov.

ALA releases updated "Libraries & the Internet Toolkit"

ALA releases updated "Libraries & the Internet Toolkit"

The American Library Association (ALA) today released a revised and updated version of the popular "Libraries and the Internet Toolkit." The toolkit is the most recent addition to the resources available to assist libraries making decisions about Internet filtering in response to the requirements of the Children's Internet Protection Act (CIPA).
The new toolkit can be found online at http://www.ala.org/oif/iftoolkits/internet or from the CIPA home page, www.ala.org/cipa.

"ALA encourages all libraries to implement policies that protect both children and public access to information and to take an active role in educating their communities about this important resource," said Judith Krug, director, ALA Office for Intellectual Freedom.

The toolkit includes:

· Checklist for creating an Internet-use policy and examples of various library policies;
· Tips for parents;
· Information about what makes a great Web site for children;
· Outreach suggestions;
· Fast facts; and
· An extensive list of additional helpful resources.

Internet use in libraries also will be the topic of the ALA President's Program at the Midwinter Meeting in San Diego, January 9-14. Entitled "Living in a Post-CIPA World," a panel of distinguished speakers from the private and public sectors will discuss the impact this far-reaching Supreme Court decision has had on libraries and information and its implications for equity in the Information Age.

For more information or resources, please contact the ALA at 800-545-2433 or online at http://www.ala.org.

Family and Youth Statistics

KWIC - Kids Well-being Indicators Clearinghouse

The New York State Council on Children and Families has developed a website with information on children's health, education and well-being indicators as a means to help assess needs, design and improve programs, and sharpen the focus on outcomes. It can be accessed at: http://www.nyskwic.org/ .

New project on NAMTC website

Check out the copyright websites linked at http://www.esu7.org/resources/media.html

[january 2004][top 2003]

Future Events

Events to put on your calendar for the days and months ahead

NOVEL Databases

Date: TBA
Scarsdale High School, Scarsdale, NY

WLA Midwinter Conference

January 14, 2004
Westchester Community College, Library, Media Room, Valhalla, NY

Mandarin User Group Meeting

February 6, 2004
Southern Westchester BOCES, 2 Westchester Plaza, Elmsford, NY

2004 SLMSSENY SPRING CONFERENCE

"MEASURING SUCCESS IN YOUR LIBRARY"

Friday, March 26, 2004
8:00am - 3:30 pm
Tarrytown Hilton
Tarrytown, NY

The Great New York ReadAloud

Wednesday, April 21, 2004

SLMS Spring Conference 2004

April 29, 30, & May 1, 2004
Adam's Mark Hotel
Buffalo, New York

Council Meetings

January 26, 2004
March 22, 2004
May 17, 2004

[jan2004][top 2003]

December 2003

December News

Happy Holidays to All!

Announcements
Awards, Grants and Scholarships
Resources
Future Events

Announcements

A Reminder to All NOVEL Database Users

The NOVEL Help Desk is open Monday thru Friday, 9-4pm. It can be reached by calling 877-277-0250 (toll free) or 486-6012 (Capital area). An e-mail can also be sent to the Help Desk at: NYSLNOVEL@mail.nysed.gov

Due to limited funding, the NOVEL Help Desk is unable to be open 24/7.

When you are calling the Help Desk with a technical question, it helps greatly if you can check with your local computer IT person first. Many calls concerning the problem of suddenly not being able to connect to the NOVEL databases involve a computer setting being changed at the local level, such as a proxy server being added or IP addresses being changed without the librarian's knowledge. Once the Help Desk has all the information contributing to the problem, it will be able to work with the database vendors to get it corrected in a timely fashion.

Also, please be sure to inform the Help Desk of any proxy server changes or additions and any other IP address changes as soon as possible so that your access to the NOVEL databases will not be interrupted. Also, please cc Janet Jamal at the School Library System - e-mail: jjamal@swboces.org - regarding these changes.

Thank you for your cooperation!

[december 2003][top 2003]

Awards, Grants and Scholarships

Grants for I.B. Singer Programs Available

Applications are available for Assimilating America: The Life and Stories of Isaac Bashevis Singer, a new initiative that provides grants to libraries that present public programs on the life and work of the Nobel Prize-winning writer Isaac Bashevis Singer (1904-1991). Libraries of all types are invited to apply. To obtain a grant application, please visit http://www.ala.org/publicprograms. Applications must be received by December 15, 2003.

Fifty selected libraries will receive a $450 grant to cover programming costs and support materials, including the authoritative three-volume hardcover collection Isaac Bashevis Singer: Collected Stories which will be published by The Library of America in July 2004; a reading group guide; the How to Organize a Singer Program leaders guide; and access to an extensive Singer Centennial Web site that contains a national calendar of events, biographical and critical writings on Singer, continuously updated resources, and relevant links to other sites. Grant recipients also are invited to attend an orientation workshop at the American Library Association (ALA) Annual Conference in Orlando, Fla. on June 27, 2004.

The centennial celebration, Assimilating America, will provide funding for a variety of public programs, including scholar or teacher-led book discussion groups, discussions of the differences and similarities between the book and film versions of one of Singer's works, readings of Singer's stories by local performers or community leaders, lectures by scholars and others knowledgeable about Singer and his work, panel discussions featuring scholars or writers familiar with the themes portrayed in Singer's works, screenings of films based on Singer's works or documentaries on the writer, or dramatizations based on Singer's works. Libraries applying for a grant are asked to develop a program for a public audience based on one of the aforementioned program ideas or a new idea that explores Singer's life and work.

Isaac Bashevis Singer, the most famous Yiddish writer of the 20th century, was an immigrant writer who gained recognition as a renowned American writer. His writings include The Family Moskat (1950), The Magician of Lublin (1961), In My Fathers Court (1966), The Manor (1967), and The Estate (1969).

Assimilating America is an initiative of The Library of America in cooperation with the ALA Public Programs Office, and with support from the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH).

Laura Bush Foundation Funding Opportunity

The Laura Bush Foundation is providing grants to purchase books for school libraries.

The goal of the Laura Bush Foundation is to provide print books to the school libraries and students that most need them. The Laura Bush Foundation will make grants of amounts up to $5,000 to school libraries; funds are to be used to update, extend and diversify the book collections of those libraries. All Laura Bush Foundation grants are made to individual schools rather than to school districts, foundations, or other entities. Only one application per school is allowed.

Preference is given to elementary, middle, or high schools in which 90% or more of the school population receives free or reduced lunch. High schools may use verifiable Free/Reduced Lunch Price Data from feeder schools. Schools below 90% FRL will be considered only in the event there is a lack of acceptable proposals at the higher levels.

To access the online application, visit the Laura Bush Foundation Web site at http://www.laurabushfoundation.org

Deadline for receipt of applications is 11:59 p.m. EST on December 17, 2003.

Toyota Motor Sales and the National Science Teachers Association Grant Opportunity

The link below provides information on a grant opportunity for K-12 science teachers. This is an opportunity for librarians to collaborate with science teachers in developing programs that extend the resources of the library (i.e., scientific online databases). Through a partnership of Toyota Motor Sales and the National Science Teachers Association, 50 one year grants and a minimum of 20 minigrants, totaling $550,000 will be awarded this year to enhance science education in school buildings and districts. This is a great way for science teachers to develop contextually based projects and assignments for their students.

The deadline for applications is January 16, 2004.
http://www.nsta.org/programs/apdf/591.pdf

SLMS AWARDS

Call for applications and or nominations: There are six School Library Media Specialists (SLMS) awards with a February 1, 2004, deadline. These include the Elementary and Secondary Administrator's Awards, the Boyds Mills Press Fellow/SLMS Conference Award, the SLMS Scholarship Award, the Cultural Media Award, and the Beatrice E. Griggs Scholarship Award. The Carole Kearney Memorial Leadership Retreat Scholarship Award has a March 1, 2004 deadline. Send nominations and or applications to:

Ellen Rubin
Library Media Specialist
Wallkill Senior High School
90 Robinson Drive/PO Box 310
Wallkill, New York 12589
845.895.7150
Fax: 845.895.8021
erubin@wallkillcsd.k12.ny.us

[december 2003][top 2003]

Resources

The CQ Researcher en Español

In early 2004, CQ Press will introduce The CQ Researcher en español, the Spanish-language edition of The CQ Researcher, a leading print and online reference resource now in its 80th year of publication. Intended to meet the needs of America's growing population of Spanish-speaking and bilingual library users, The CQ Researcher en español will offer in-depth, non-biased coverage of today’s most important political and social issues, with regular reports on topics in health, international affairs, education, the environment, technology, and the U.S. economy.

Prior to launch of this new Spanish-language print and online resource, direction from librarians is being requested in order to ensure that CQ Researcher en español is of greatest possible value to its intended users. Please take 10 minutes to complete an online survey that you will find at http://www.informedstrategies.com/cq/.

By completing the survey, you will be offered the option to receive further information on The CQ Researcher en español as well as a charter subscription discount of 25% off the first year's subscription rate for your institution.

Thank you for participating.

CQ Researcher Gets New Design and Research Tools

Beginning on December 22, 2003, CQ Researcher Online users will discover a new look and a number of new research tools. The update to this popular reference resource includes:

• Your Profile feature set, allowing the user to save favorite searches and reports for later use.
• CiteNow!, a unique feature that automatically generates a citation in APA, Bluebook, Chicago, or MLA styles.
• An enhanced advanced search form.
• Easier navigation in Browse by Date and Browse by Topic.
• A redesigned home page, incorporating the new research tools and highlighting the dynamic content features, "In the News" and "Coming Up."

CQ Researcher Online will continue to offer original, comprehensive reporting and analysis on issues shaping our world. Each timely report will still appear online the day before print publication.

[december 2003][top 2003]

Future Events

Events to put on your calendar for the days and months ahead

Open Source Software for Library Automation

December 9, 2003
Southern Westchester BOCES, Valhalla, NY

Sagebrush-Winnebago User Group Meeting

December 11, 2003
Southern Westchester BOCES, Elmsford, NY

NOVEL Databases

January 13, 2004
Scarsdale High School, Scarsdale, NY

1:30 p.m. - Registration
2:00 - 5:00 p.m. - NOVEL Databases K-12

WLA Midwinter Conference

January 14, 2004
Westchester Community College, Valhalla, NY

2004 SLMSSENY SPRING CONFERENCE

"MEASURING SUCCESS IN YOUR LIBRARY"

Friday, March 26, 2004
8:00am - 3:30 pm
Tarrytown Hilton
Tarrytown, NY

The Great New York ReadAloud

Wednesday, April 21, 2004

SLMS Spring Conference 2004

April 29, 30, & May 1, 2004
Adam's Mark Hotel
Buffalo, New York

Council Meetings

November 24, 2003
January 26, 2004
March 22, 2004
May 17, 2004

[dec2003][top 2003]

November 2003

November News
Announcements
Awards, Grants and Scholarships
Library Related Courses
Resources
Future Events

Announcements

Regents Receive Testimony on Libraries at 2003 Public Policy Conference

A number of organizations who were not present at the New York State Board of Regents Public Policy Conference on September 10, 2003, submitted written testimony about libraries. Some groups who were at the conference also submitted written testimony. The annual Policy Conference provides an opportunity for the Regents to address high-priority policy issues on which they seek as much consultation as possible.

The following are brief summaries of the written testimony on libraries submitted to the Regents.

The New York State Reading Association (NYSRA) submitted a number of recommendations concerning reading instruction, academic performance, and teacher preparation. Under the topic "School Library," the testimony proposed two initiatives:

* Increase the number of certified school librarians/library media specialists. NYSRA urged the Regents to help identify ways in which to (1) recruit new candidates to become school library media specialists and (2) increase the number of graduate programs leading to certification as a school library media specialist.

* Require school libraries in all schools. Citing estimates that 40 percent of schools in New York have no school library, as well as research that links school libraries with higher levels of student achievement, NYSRA urged the Regents to advance legislation that will require school libraries in all New York schools and to support the allocation of funding to accomplish this.

NYSRA also reaffirmed its support for SED efforts to renew and revitalize New York's libraries through the Regents "New Century Libraries" legislative initiative.

Testimony from the School Library Systems Association and the Onondaga-Cortland-Madison School Library System urged support for "New Century Libraries" and increases in statutory funding for school library systems, which are in crisis. If the systems see no increase, K-12 students will lose coordinated library services and student achievement will be severely jeopardized.

The Mid-York Library System, the Westchester Library System, and The New York Public Library submitted testimony based on common themes:

* Library systems are in financial trouble due to flat state funding, local budget cuts, and loss of local resources. The results of budget shortfalls include cuts of hours and staff; reduced purchasing of materials; cuts in programs for children, literacy, the visually handicapped, job-seekers, and those in correctional facilities; and reduced technology, maintenance, and security, which put facilities at risk.

* Member libraries, particularly small rural libraries, would not survive without system services, but flat funding is jeopardizing systems faced with soaring costs for materials, staff health insurance, etc.

* Systems are taking steps wherever possible to supplement state funding through other sources, but they need enhanced system funding through "New Century Libraries" to ensure the survival of services that member libraries cannot possibly provide on their own.

South Central Regional Library Council and Metropolitan New York Library Council (METRO) expressed appreciation for the Regents continued support of libraries and legislation through "New Century Libraries." In their testimony, they stated that keeping libraries strong in hard economic times is difficult but essential to the quality of life, level of education, health, and economic well-being of the state. "New Century Libraries" is vital in supporting resource sharing, funding NOVEL, enhancing the infrastructure that enables library services, and permitting the 3Rs and their members to maintain (or restore) essential services and programs.

The New York 3Rs (representing the nine councils) and South Central Regional Library Council submitted testimony on the topic "distance learning." In summary:

* Distance learning requires funding for staff who are trained to serve the unique needs of distance learners as well as funding to improve the infrastructure of libraries throughout New York.

* Support of distance learners by libraries through resource sharing, interlibrary loan, and direct use of library facilities is a sensible, cost-effective means of providing library service.

* Libraries play a crucial role in any development and funding of distance learning programs.

* Libraries need the support of additional funding to make distance learning and other services possible.

For a copy of the complete testimony of a specific group, contact Paula Paolucci at ppaolucc@mail.nysed.gov, and request the specific testimony you would like to receive.

Impact of Libraries on Student Achievement

On October 9, 2003, Fran Roscello, President of the American Association of School Librarians (a division of the American Library Association), Associate in School Library Media Services in the New York State Education Department, and past President of the New York Library Association, discussed the impact of libraries on student achievement with the New York State Board of Regents.

In her remarks, Ms. Roscello cited scientifically based research studies, including more than 3300 elementary, middle, and high schools across the country, that show that effective school libraries improve students' academic performance. In these studies, reading scores tended to rise by 10 to 20 percent with increased levels of professional and support staff, increased size and quality of the library collections, spending on resources, and the extent of networks for access to resources. This improvement stands in spite of other factors such as community poverty levels, parents' education level, ethnicity, teacher-pupil ratio, and spending per pupil.

A key element for raising student achievement in all the research studies is the certified library media specialist (SLMS), who is a teacher and a technology-savvy information expert integral to teaching and learning. A 1999 New York State survey, done in conjunction with the Regents Commission on Library Services, showed that students in schools with certified library media specialists performed better on the fourth- and eighth-grade English Language Arts and Math assessments.

Ms. Roscello described an ongoing School Library Media Program Improvement Initiative to build local capacity in New York State. As part of the initiative, which includes program evaluation, workshops, and technical-assistance visits, schools statewide evaluate their library programs on 15 key elements. In the evaluation of more than 500 schools, including all SURR schools (Schools Under Registration Review), the largest contrast between SURR schools and achieving schools is a lack of certified and support staff and technology in the library. Overall, all schools were only slightly above a basic level, falling far below exemplary levels.

Data indicates that 860 schools-including 500 in New York City and 360 upstate-do not have a certified SLMS. School library systems continue to struggle to provide support for strong, effective library programs. These problems exist nationwide, as reflected by recent remarks of First Lady Laura Bush, a former school librarian, who acknowledged the crisis as follows: "…school libraries are not well-funded, and a lot of the time, the librarian is the first job that's cut when schools face financial problems."

After her remarks, Ms. Roscello took questions from the Regents and engaged them in a positive discussion. They addressed ways to deal with the marked contrast between what the research indicates are proven programs for student improvement and the realities of school libraries and school library systems in New York. The Regents Cultural Education Committee will discuss the topic again in November to define issues further and identify next steps.

To read the article "Studies Link Library Quality to Student Achievement," by State Librarian Janet M. Welch, in the New York State School Boards Association newsletter, go to http://www.nyssba.org/index.html. In addition to citing research, the article describes how New York is falling short in providing equitable access to quality school libraries. It focuses on the ways in which NOVEL (New York Online Virtual Electronic Library) is providing access to high-quality electronic resources for many students through their school libraries, as well as the assistance for school library programs proposed in the Regents "New Century Libraries" legislative initiative.

State Library Cataloging of New York State Documents

The State Library is entering an exciting new era as it prepares to launch a digital media archive in collaboration with the New York State Museum and the New York State Archives. This archive will include images of all the documents that have been scanned over the years, as well as those generated in the future.

State Library staff will also begin to harvest electronic documents from New York State agency websites and make them available from the new digital media archive. The library will create bibliographic MARC records for those documents that exist only in electronic format, and provide a link to the electronic version in the archive. When a print version of a document exists, the print version will have the single bibliographic MARC record, with a link to the electronic version.

The State Library has always collected and cataloged paper copies of New York State documents. For many years, microform copies of those documents were created. More recently, the documents are scanned, and the electronic copies hosted on State Library servers.

When documents exist in paper and electronic formats, it has been State Library practice to follow the single-record approach, i.e., creating one bibliographic record for the paper version and attaching versions in other formats to that record.

For a number of reasons, the State Library has not attempted to catalog all web-based New York State documents. Reasons include concerns over the lack of permanence of web documents, changeability of web content and URLs, and a policy of directing users to original documents and sources on appropriate State Government websites through the New York State Government Information Locator Service based on the State Library website.

As documents increasingly exist only in electronic form, the new digital media archive will provide increased access to and cataloging for New York State web-based publications. The Steering Committee for NOVEL (New York Online Virtual Electronic Library), which includes representatives from the State Library, will also discuss this issue in upcoming meetings.

For more information on the digital media archive, contact Liza Duncan at the State Library; e-mail lduncan@mail.nysed.gov or phone (518) 474-5946.

Digital Treasures for Teaching and Learning

What do Kitty Hawk, the Statue of Liberty, Mark Twain, the Battle of Gettysburg, Cheyenne Indians and the Space Shuttle have in common? They are all events, people and places that can come alive as primary source information through the Library of Congress' acclaimed American Memory Collection and other digital library collections.

The award-winning Library Learning Network of the College of DuPage and the Colorado Digitization Program presented a national teleconference "Digital Treasures for Teaching and Learning" on Friday, October 10.

Teachers and librarians who have used the American Memory and other digital primary source materials were featured. Lesson plans, strategies and exercises for incorporating photos, maps and three-dimensional artifacts into student activities were demonstrated. Participants were able to submit questions to presenters for on-air discussion. A Webliography and other support materials are available through the teleconference's Web site.

Phyllis DiBianco, Library Media Specialist at Scarsdale High School, who was an American Fellow and participated in the Library of Congress American Memory Fellows Institute, facilitated this program for local library media specialists at the School Library System at Southern Westchester BOCES in Elmsford, NY.

To view a videotape of the teleconference, contact Janet Jamal at the School Library System Office. Janet can be reached at (telephone) 345-8500, ext. 122; (fax) 592-4438; or e-mail jjamal@swboces.org.

Jewish Children's Book Writers' Conference

Fifth Annual Jewish Children's Book Writers' Conference
Sunday, November 23, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
92nd Street Y, 1395 Lexington Avenue, New York, NY
Cost: $90
Kosher breakfast and lunch

The 92nd Street Y Buttenwieser Library and the Jewish Book Council are co-sponsoring the Fifth Annual Jewish Children's Book Writers' Conference at the 92nd Street Y in Manhattan on Sunday, November 23, 2003, from 9:00 am to 5:00 p.m.

Featured faculty are editor Scott Blumenthal of Behrman House Publishers, vice president and publisher Beverly Horowitz of Bantam Delacorte Dell Young Readers Group, independent press founder Sallie Lowenstein, executive editor Helen Perelman of Hyperion Books, literary agent and executive editor Ann Tobias of Handprint Books, and art director Deborah Kaplan of Puffin Books/Penguin Group USA.

Author Barbara Diamond Goldin, winner of the Sydney Taylor Body-of-Work Award, will give opening remarks, and the day will include First Pages with the editors, a talk by the coordinator of the Association of Jewish Libraries' Sydney Taylor Manuscript Competition, and door prizes.

Call 212-415-5544 or e-mail library@92y.org for a registration form and additional information.

As a service to booksellers and librarians, Anna Olswanger Books provides author and publisher contact information in each issue of "Jewish Book Publishing News," archived at http://www.olswanger.com and available in the newsletter of the Association of Jewish Libraries.

[november 2003][top 2003]

Awards, Grants and Scholarships

Grant and Scholarship Information Websites

"Grantionary"
The Grantionary is a list of grant-related terms and their definitions.
http://www.eduplace.com/grants/help/grantionary.html

"GrantsAlert"
GrantsAlert is a website that helps nonprofits, especially those involved
in education, secure the funds they need to continue their important work.
http://www.grantsalert.com/

"Grant Writing Tips"
SchoolGrants has compiled an excellent set of grant writing tips for those that need help in developing grant proposals.
http://www.schoolgrants.org/

"FastWEB"
FastWEB is the largest online scholarship search available, with 600,000 scholarships representing over one billion in scholarship dollars. It provides students with accurate, regularly updated information on scholarships, grants, and fellowships suited to their goals and qualifications, all at no cost to the student. Please note: Students should be advised that FastWEB collects and sells student information (such as name, address, e-mail address, date of birth, gender, and country of citizenship) collected through their site.
http://www.fastweb.com/

"Federal Resources for Educational Excellence (FREE)"
More than 30 Federal agencies formed a working group in 1997 to make hundreds of federally supported teaching and learning resources easier to find. The result of that work is the FREE website.
http://www.ed.gov/free/

"Fundsnet Online Services"
A comprehensive website dedicated to providing nonprofit organizations, colleges, and universities with information on financial resources available on the Internet.
http://www.fundsnetservices.com/

"eSchool News School Funding Center"
Information on up-to-the-minute grant programs, funding sources, and technology funding.
http://www.eschoolnews.com/resources/funding/

"Philanthropy News Digest"
Philanthropy News Digest, a weekly news service of the Foundation Center, is a compendium, in digest form, of philanthropy-related articles and features culled from print and electronic media outlets nationwide.
http://fdncenter.org/pnd/

[november 2003][top 2003]

Library Related Courses

LIS Continuing Education via the Internet

The winter roster of LIS continuing education workshops delivered wholly via the Internet is now available from the University at Buffalo library school. A computer with Internet access and a Web browser are all that's needed to access these self-paced instructional modules, accessible 24 hours a day, 7 days a week during the posting period. New workshops have been added covering serials cataloging, proposing & surviving new library technologies, XML, and constructing database driven web sites. All workshop topics:

Cataloging
*Sleuthing Serials: Serials Cataloging in Reverse

Computers - Networking:
*Basic Networking & Operating Systems for Librarians
*Proposing & Surviving New Library Technologies

Government Information/Documents:
*Documents Jump Start
*Legislative Research
*Regulations

Public Libraries: Readers' Services:
*Genre Fiction in Public Libraries
*Readers' Advisory Services

Web Design - Internet Technologies:
*Constructing Usable, Accessible Web sites from Scratch
*Introduction to XML
*Designing and Constructing Database Driven Web Sites

Full descriptions of workshops can be accessed from http://informatics.buffalo.edu/faculty/robinson/ce/descriptions.htm. Course modules are posted on the Web and accessed via a password sent by E-mail to registrants. Participants proceed at their own pace through course modules accessible 24 hours a day, 7 days a week during the posting period. Questions and assignments are fielded by the instructor via a Web Bulletin Board or by E-mail (the Sleuthing Serials workshop also has optional Blackboard Virtual Classroom sessions).

These non-credit courses do not require enrollment at the University at Buffalo and will not appear on university transcripts. They accrue Continuing Education credits BB CEUs.

For more information contact Judith Robinson, Department of Library and Information Studies, School of Informatics, 534 Baldy Hall, Buffalo, NY 14260-1020; (716) 645-2412 ext. 1166; FAX (716) 645-3775; E-mail: lisrobin@buffalo.edu; http://informatics.buffalo.edu/faculty/Robinson/index.htm

[november 2003][top 2003]

Resources

New On-line Database from EBSCO

EBSCO introduced a new online database which provides a robust, historical collection of newspapers. In order to supplement the Newspaper Source database, and provide a huge retrospective collection of important news sources, EBSCO has partnered with a leading provider of electronic newspapers, Heritage Microfilm, to bring to you NewspaperARCHIVE Elite.

NewspaperARCHIVE Elite is the world’s first, largest and busiest online archive of historical newspapers. With over 12 million fully searchable pages representing over 400 cities and towns, NewspaperARCHIVE Elite allows users to research genealogy, history, culture, and any newsworthy event. NewspaperARCHIVE Elite offers coverage for hundreds of newspapers with articles dating back as far as the 1700’s. The collection provides a searchable archival file of important newspapers from the U.S., Canada, the Caribbean, Europe and the U.K. Examples of newspapers covered in the vast collection include: The New York Times, The Washington Post, The London Times, The Atlanta Constitution, Indianapolis Star, Newport Daily News, St. Petersburg Times, The Bridgeport Post, Lethbridge Herald, Manitoba Daily Free Press, and hundreds more. Approximately 2 million pages will be added to the product each month. Further, additional information from The London Times, dating as far back as 1765, is now being added to the Archive.

Kindersite Project Online

The 'not for profit' Kindersite project is now online at http://www.kindersite.org.

PLEASE NOTE. This test version of the site is for educational professionals and bone-fide parents of young children ONLY. The childrens site is being built seperately.

There are 2 missions for the project:
1. To allow early learners worldwide access to the best graded content available on the Internet in a safe and secure environment and allow them to choose and use the content.
2. For qualified academic, educational and language researchers to study the children's usage of the content and follow up their usage to best understand outcomes of how and if technology should be integrated in to the educational process and how young children relate to non-native language content.

List members can help this stage of the project by:
1. Joining the advisory board (see http://www.kindersite.org/Advisory.htm )
2. Helping 'tiny testers' to use the site and reporting back to the Kindersite project on the outcome (positive or negative) - teachers and parents
3. Suggesting research projects based on the site
4. Any other form of help and support - they still desperately need additional funding (corporate or private) to move the project on

Lastly - the Kindersite project is strictly controlling use of the site to ONLY professionals in the educational community and parents of young children and you will be asked to register to gain entry to the working parts of the site. PLEASE DO NOT register any children at this stage but only their caregivers.

[november 2003][top 2003]

Future Events

Events to put on your calendar for the days and months ahead

2003 NYLA - Annual Conference

November 5-8, 2003
Saratoga Springs, NY

Follett User Group Meeting

November 10, 2003
2:30 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Southern Westchester BOCES, Elmsford, NY

Fifth Annual Jewish Children's Book Writers' Conference

November 23, 2003
92nd Street Y, 1395 Lexington Avenue, New York, NY

Sagebrush-Winnebago User Group Meeting

December 11, 2003
Southern Westchester BOCES, Elmsford, NY

WLA Midwinter Conference

January 14, 2004
Westchester Community College, Valhalla, NY

2004 SLMSSENY SPRING CONFERENCE

"MEASURING SUCCESS IN YOUR LIBRARY"

Friday, March 26, 2004
8:00am - 3:30 pm
Tarrytown Hilton
Tarrytown, NY

The Great New York ReadAloud

Wednesday, April 21, 2004

SLMS Spring Conference 2004

April 29, 30, & May 1, 2004
Adam's Mark Hotel
Buffalo, New York

Council Meetings

November 24, 2003
January 26, 2004
March 22, 2004
May 17, 2004

[nov2003][top 2003]

October 2003

October News
Announcements
Contest
Awards, Grants and Scholarships
Library Related Courses
Resources
Future Events

Announcements

Studies link library quality to student achievement

Attached is an article by Janet Welch on Studies link library quality to student achievement that appeared in the August 25th issue of the NYS School Boards Association newsletter.

Book Fest 2003

There is still time to sign up for Book Fest 2003, NYPL's annual one-day conference to discuss books for children and teens. This New York City event will take place on Saturday, November 1, from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Celeste Bartos Forum at 42nd St. and Fifth Ave. The cost of the conference is $55 which includes coffee and rolls, lunch and afternoon sherry.

This year Book Fest will present Linda Sue Park, Newbery winner for A Single Shard as the key-note speaker. The afternoon session features a lively panel on the topic of "American Family Notes" with authors Jim Murphy (Inside the Alamo), Tracy Mack (Birdland), Chris Myers (illustrator of Blues Journey) and Kimberly Willis Holt (Keeper of the Night). Book Fest will also feature eight discussion groups led by well-known children's or young adult literature specialists in the New York City area.

For more information see their website at kids.nypl.org or teenlink.nypl.org, or call 212-340-0906. The registration deadline is October 17.

Library Journal's Movers and Shakers

The editors of Library Journal need help in identifying emerging leaders in the library world. From librarians to vendors to others who work in the field or related industries, their third annual Movers & Shakers supplement will profile up-and-coming talent: people who are innovative, creative, and making a difference. Now more than ever, library workers are creating ground-breaking services and collections for their users. But too often the people behind these exciting projects remain out of sight, known only to their peers.

Help celebrate the new professionals who are moving our libraries ahead. More information, and an online form, is available at www.libraryjournal.com/ljms. Nominations are due by November 1 and should be submitted to bkenney@reedbusiness.com or via fax (646-746-6734) or post: Library Journal, 360 Park Avenue South, New York, NY 10010.

2004 Legislative Tasks Start Now

2004 will not begin on our calendars for another four months, but preparations are being made in Albany right now for next year's budget. The Division of the Budget is pulling together information from each state agency which will be used to help them draft a budget plan for Governor Pataki to present to the Legislature in January. It is our job to do our best to make sure that the January budget plan includes sustained and increased funding for libraries.

As a librarian, school library media specialist, teacher, or library supporter, you need to make time now to write a personal and thoughtful letter to the Governor, explaining your library's need for sustained and increased funding. Please visit the School Library Systems Association (SLSA) website at www.crbsls.org/slsa for your Advocacy Toolkit.

NOVEL Newspaper Databases

To All NOVEL Database Subscribers:

A reminder:
The Dialog@CARL newspaper database has not been active since April 1st.
Please remove all references to Dialog@CARL on your library's websites and browsers.

On July 1st, ReferenceLink, the NOVEL Gale newspaper database, was replaced by Gale's InfoTrac Custom Newspapers. Please remove all references to ReferenceLink on your web pages.

InfoTrac Custom Newspapers also includes 10 New York State newspapers and the last year of the New York Times. Gale has broken out these ten newspapers as a separate listing entitled New York State Newspapers.

An additional newspaper database added to the NOVEL databases since July 1st is The National Newspaper Index, which provides indexing (1977-present) of America's top 5 newspapers: the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, Christian Science Monitor, Los Angeles Times and the Washington Post.

NOVEL database subscribers who have registered for the Gale databases should see InfoTrac Custom Newspapers, the National Newspaper Index and the New York State Newspapers listed as separate database choices on their Gale database menu screen.

Please contact the NOVEL Help Desk if you have questions regarding the NOVEL newspaper databases. The Help Desk can be reached by calling 877-277-0250 (toll free) or 486-6012 (Capital area) 9-4pm Monday thru Friday.

ProQuest Update

The next release of PQNext was released on September 14, 2003. This release includes a number of enhancements, including:

* The ability to cross-search American Periodical Series and ProQuest Historical Newspapers databases

* Help system display of database-specific help and search tips

* Refinements to the new "print bibliography" feature

* Date range searching display of the required date format

* Improvements to the "article view screen" for Hoover's Company Capsules and Profiles

* Restoration of export to RefWorks

* Minor authentication enhancements

To read more about the new release of PQNext, you can go to their website at http://www.proquest.com/proquest/newsletters/ProQuest.shtml.

New Wildlife Reference Database from EBSCO

During the Spring and Summer of 2003, EBSCO successfully launched a number of K-12 databases. Included among these newly released databases are: BookSource: Nonfiction, Auto Repair Reference Center and History Reference Center.

EBSCO now introduces the Marshall Cavendish Wildlife Reference Center...

EBSCO Publishing and Marshall Cavendish, publisher of high-quality print reference collections, have partnered to create the Marshall Cavendish Wildlife Reference Center. The variety of data included in this product will help researchers gain an in-depth understanding of thousands of wildlife-related topics, including animals, plants, and dinosaurs. The three encyclopedias below make up the core collection of the Marshall Cavendish Wildlife Reference Center. Each encyclopedia contains hundreds of interesting articles designed to appeal to researchers both with and without a strong background in wildlife sciences. The database also provides full text periodical articles that will enhance a student’s experience by offering numerous perspectives on wildlife issues and topics. Hundreds of colorful images are also included in this product.

Encyclopedia of Mammals This encyclopedia contains 17 volumes and provides in-depth understanding of mammals. The collection serves as an essential key to the lives and futures of the world’s mammals. Each entry focuses on a different mammal or group of mammals, and contains many articles that provide useful information about the animal.

Dinosaurs of the World This encyclopedia contains 11 volumes on the fascinating world of dinosaurs. Entries are written by paleontologists and explain different dinosaur types, where and when each lived, eating habits, and other pertinent information. Each entry may include color artwork, fact boxes, family trees and time lines.

Endangered Wildlife and Plants of the World This 12-volume set focuses on wildlife that is endangered or threatened with extinction. The primary sources used to identify the selected wildlife in this collection include the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and the Red Lists compiled by the IUCN – The World Conservation Union. Result records can contain information on plant or animal common name, scientific name, ESA and /or IUCN classification, taxonomic classification and physical description.

For additional information or a free trial of Marshall Cavendish Wildlife Reference Center, please send an e-mail to: information@epnet.com.

[october 2003][top 2003]

Contest

Poster Contest - Calling All Artists

The Office of the New York State Attorney General is seeking appropriate artwork from young people to adorn its annual crime prevention calendar. This calendar is distributed to civic and community-based groups to assist them in planning programs and conducting outreach to boost public safety and neighborhood spirit.

Youth, from elementary-school through high-school age, are encouraged to use their artistic expression to submit original, eye-catching work that conveys their feelings about the impact of violence on their communities and stresses the importance of street-wise crime prevention tactics.

High School students participating in the OAG Students Against Violence Initiative will be invited to judge the artwork.

Requirements:

Drawings may be 8 ½ by 11 or 8 ½ by 14. They should not be framed or matted. One entry per youngster.

The name, address, home phone, school and optional email of the artist should appear on the back of the artwork. The artwork may be submitted individually by a parent or guardian or collectively by the library personnel. Check with your local public or school library system to see if they are coordinating entries regionally.

All work must be submitted to the office by: October 17, 2003 and mailed to:

New York State Attorney General
Program Development
120 Broadway, 26th floor
New York, New York 10271

Questions may be directed to: (212) 416-8839 or (800) 771-7755 or submitted via e-mail at: www.oag.state.ny.us

[october 2003][top 2003]

Awards, Grants and Scholarships

We The People Book Grants Available

The American Library Association (ALA) Public Programs Office and the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) are accepting applications from public and school (K-12) libraries for the We The People Bookshelf grants. Part of NEH's We The People initiative, the Bookshelf project will award the 15 Bookshelf books for young readers to up to 500 libraries across the country. Selected libraries are required to present programs that highlight the theme of "courage" and encourage young readers to explore these works.

Libraries interested in receiving the We The People Bookshelf grant can view the application and guidelines at www.ala.org/wethepeople or www.wethepeople.gov. Applications are being accepted online until October 22, 2003 for Round One and February 15, 2004 for Round Two.

Komen College Scholarship Awards Now Available

The Greater New York City Affiliate of the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation is pleased to announce the awarding of 5 scholarships valued up to $40,000 each. Application deadline is November 14, 2003. The scholarship application can be downloaded by visiting: http://www.komen.org/grants/college_scholarship_award_application.asp. The Komen College Scholarship Award is designed to assist students who have lost a parent to breast cancer. The program is donor-funded and administered by the Foundation through its local Affiliate network. Award recipients can receive up to $10,000 per year to be used towards tuition, books, fees and on-campus room and board while a full-time undergraduate student at a state-supported college or university in their state of residency. There will be a maximum of five scholarships given each year.

The selection criteria for the Komen College Scholarship Award includes scholastic achievement, community service, demonstrated leadership potential and a financial need. Students are required to maintain a minimum of a 2.8 GPA (on a 4.0 scale) after the first grading period. Unless prohibited by disability, students are required to earn wages equal to 20% of the lesser of their annual school costs or the amount of the award.

Komen College Scholarship Information
Students who are interested in learning more about the Komen College Scholarship Award can contact their local Komen Affiliate or Foundation Headquarters.

The local Komen Affiliate serving the Manhattan, Brooklyn, Bronx, Queens, Staten Island, Long Island, Westchester County and Rockland County area:
Daisy A. Vazquez
Grants Manager
The Greater NYC Affiliate of the
Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation
341 West 38th Street, 10th Fl
New York, NY 10018
212-560-9590x224
212-560-9598
dvazquez@komennyc.org

Foundation Headquarters:
Att: Grants Department, Scholarship Award
Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation
5005 LBJ Freeway, Ste. 250
Dallas, TX 75244
affiliategrants@komen.org

Applications must be received by the Komen Foundation in Dallas by 5:00PM CST, November 14, 2003.

Fulbright Memorial Fund Teacher Program

The Fulbright Memorial Fund Teacher Program is available to school librarians. For more information about the Fulbright Memorial Fund Teacher Program go to http://www.iie.org/Template.cfm?&Template=/programs/fmf/default.htm

Applications are due December 10.

[october 2003][top 2003]

Library Related Courses

The Pace University Library presents the LAMA Regional Institute

"Designing and Retrofitting Space for Technology"

On Friday, October 17th the Mortola Library at Pace University in Pleasantville, NY will be hosting the LAMA Regional Institute "Designing and Retrofitting Space for Technology." This fast paced one-day workshop will examine the issues and principles of space design for technology for both new and existing library space for all types of libraries. Co-presenters Larry Woods and Jim Duncan from the University of Iowa Libraries will outline the requirements and principles for designing electronic classrooms and technology labs, public access workstations for OPAC and Internet, and staff workspace and redesigned workflow. Both existing and emerging technology and its implications fro space planning in libraries will also be discussed. The institute will look at alternative designs for electronic classrooms and user space; technical requirements for furniture, lighting, and networks; and budget planning issues related to technology. It will so explore the issues and challenges involved with providing high quality library services in a technology-based environment.

This workshop is designed for middle and senior managers from public, school, and academic libraries who are involved in or will be involved in planning space and budgets for technology-based library services.

The cost for attending the one-day workshop is $50 per person. The cost covers conference attendance, materials, continental breakfast, and luncheon. Space is limited to 70 participants on a first-come, first-serve basis.

For more information please see the workshop web page: http://www.pace.edu/library/pages/lama/ or contact Steve Feyl at (914) 773-3505 or sfeyl@pace.edu

[october 2003][top 2003]

Resources

ALA CIPA Resources Updated

ALA has posted new material at its CIPA website.

* Ropes & Gray Memo - An August 29 memorandum from the Ropes and Gray law firm interprets and clarififies some practical CIPA issues that have been discussed but not resolved on library lists.

* Useful Resources On CIPA - Nancy Kranich, chair of the ALA Intellectual Freedom Committee, has posted a recent compilation that includes assessments of filtering products.

http://www.ala.org/Content/NavigationMenu/Our_Association/Offices/ALA_Washington/Issues2/Civil_Liberties,_Intellectual_Freedom,_Privacy/CIPA1/CIPA.htm.

NYLA IFRT Newsletter Online

NYLA's Intellectual Freedom Roundtable newsletter "Pressure Point" is now online at: http://www.nyla.org/index.php?page_id=345.

Keeping Up with Library Related News

Marylaine Block publishes information for and about libraries and librarians. Did you know that there are hundreds of discussion groups, newslists and weblogs out there about libraries of all types? It is impossible to keep up with all the library related news. Here is some help: "Library Link of the Day" - virtually one e-mail daily. The Library Link of the Day provides you a daily link for keeping up to date with the library profession. Destinations include the latest library news, good reads on the web, and other valuable library resources. The link is presented without commentary. It is a way for busy librarians and library fans of all kinds to review items of interest that they may not have heard about otherwise. Go to the site http://www.tk421.net/librarylink/ to register or see the archives.

Manual de Conducirs

Many Spanish-language publications are regularly issued by the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles, including MV-21S "Manual de Conducir" (Driver's Manual) updated in March of this year. The 120-page booklet is intended to inform Spanish readers about traffic laws and the responsibilities that come with having a driver license and owning a motor vehicle in New York State.

This is a New York State paper-document depository item. Full text HTML and PDF editions of many DMV publications, including the driver's manuals in both English and Spanish, are available at http://www.nydmv.state.ny.us/brochure.htm.

Additional copies of important publications may be obtained at local DMV offices and 'bulk' orders by written request sent to: NYS Department of Motor Vehicles, attention: DMV Warehouse, 6 Empire State Plaza, Albany, NY 12228 or by FAX to: (518) 861-7611.

Homework Websites of Interest

TOURBUS Volume 9, Number 11 - 23 Sep 2003

MESSY DESK = Wasted Time & More Work

Does your desk look like a toxic waste dump? Do you have piles of paper everywhere? Do you waste an hour a day looking for stuff that's "lost" on the top of your desk?

New eBook, "Winning the Fight Between You and Your Desk" shows you how to transform a desk so it resembles the flight deck of an aircraft carrier. For Info - http://SucceedingInBusiness.com/Tourbus.htm

T h e I n t e r n e t T o u r B u s

Visit the Tourbus Home Page at http://www.TOURBUS.com!

TODAY'S TOURBUS TOPIC: BACK TO SCHOOL

If you're a parent, teacher, home-schooler, grandparent or a student this issue of TOURBUS lists many helpful websites that include lesson plans, online reference tools and homework helpers.

TEACHING RESOURCES

NEW YORK TIMES LEARNING NETWORK - Created for students and teachers in grades 3 through 12, The Learning Network is a free news service that provides news summaries, quizzes, and even daily lesson plans.

Learning Network - http://www.nytimes.com/learning

ASKERIC LESSON PLANS - More than 2000 unique lesson plans which have been written and submitted to AskERIC by teachers. If you have a great lesson plan you would like to share with educators all over the world, send it in. A wonderful online resource since 1992.

AskEric - http://www.askeric.org/Virtual/Lessons

Teachnet offers lesson plans, teaching tools, a daily teacher-oriented cartoon, and email lists fort educators.

TeachNet - http://www.teachnet.com

REFERENCE TOOLS

REFDESK - In a library, if you don't know where to look for a reference book, you go to the Reference Librarian. On the Internet, if you don't know where to look for answers, you go to Refdesk.com. At first glance, the sheer amount of useful links on the Refdesk home page can be overwhelming, but it is well organized and useful.

RefDesk - http://www.refdesk.com

LIBRARY SPOT - Convenient links to popular online almanacs, calculators, dictionaries, directories, encyclopedias, historic documents, quotations, statistics, and thesauri.

LibrarySpot - http://www.libraryspot.com

HOMEWORK HELPERS

HOMEWORK SPOT - A free homework information portal that features the very best K-12 homework-related sites. With the help of students, parents and teachers, teams of educators, librarians and journalists have searched the Web to bring you the best resources for english, math, science, history, art, music, technology, foreign language, college prep, health, life skills, extracurricular activities and much more.

Homework Spot - http://www.homeworkspot.com

INFOPLEASE HOMEWORK CENTER - Find useful information by subject area, develop better writing, note-taking and study skills, and search through previous questions and answers from other students.

InfoPlease - http://www.infoplease.com/homework

THE KIDS ON THE WEB - This is an excellent site maintained as a labor of love by Internet luminary Brendan Kehoe. "Kids on the Web" has links for homework tools, educational sites and much more. You could spend days exploring all these links, and Brendan adds new ones every month.

Homework Tools - http://www.zen.org/~brendan/kids-homework.html

HOMESCHOOL RESOURCES

According to the National Home Education Research Institute, there are over two million homeschooled children in the USA, and this number is growing by 15% per year. Some resources that will be useful on this topic:

Homeschool World - http://www.home-school.com

Jon's Homeschool Resources - http://www.midnightbeach.com/hs

Homeschool Legal Defense Assocation - http://www.hslda.org

=====================[ Tourbus Rider Information ]===================
The Internet Tourbus - U.S. Library of Congress ISSN #1094-2238
Copyright 1995-2002, Rankin & Crispen - All rights reserved

[october 2003][top 2003]

Future Events

Events to put on your calendar for the days and months ahead

Fall Into Books

October 16, 2003
Mt. Alphonsus, NY

AASL (American Association of School Librarians) 11th National Conference & Exhibition

October 22-26, 2003
Kansas City, Missouri

Book Fest 2003

November 1, 2003

The New York Public Library
Celeste Bartos Forum
Center for the Humanities
42nd Street and Fifth Avenue
New York, NY
(Enter through 42nd Street Door)

2003 NYLA - Annual Conference

November 5-8, 2003
Saratoga Springs, NY

Follett User Group Meeting

November 10, 2003
2:30 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Southern Westchester BOCES, Elmsford, NY

Sagebrush-Winnebago User Group Meeting

December 11, 2003
Southern Westchester BOCES, Elmsford, NY

2004 SLMSSENY SPRING CONFERENCE

"MEASURING SUCCESS IN YOUR LIBRARY"

Friday, March 26, 2004
8:00am - 3:30 pm
Tarrytown Hilton
Tarrytown, NY

Council Meetings

November 24, 2003
January 26, 2004
March 22, 2004
May 17, 2004

[oct 2003][top 2003]

September 2003

September News
Awards, Grants and Scholarships
Library Related Courses
Announcements
Resources
Scout Report
Future Events

Awards, Grants and Scholarships

Empire State Award Winner is Announced

The Youth Services Section of the New York Library Association has named Seymour Simon the recipient of the 2003 Empire State Award for Excellence in Literature for Young People. An Award Luncheon honoring Mr. Simon will be held on Friday, November 7, during the association's annual conference to be held in Saratoga Springs, New York.

First awarded in 1990, the Empire State Award is given to a New York author or illustrator to honor a significant body of work in the field of literature for young people. Seymour Simon certainly fulfills those requirements with over 200 books to his credit, both in fiction and non-fiction. His many previous awards include the New York State Knickerbocker Award for Juvenile Literature, the Eva L. Gordon Award, presented by the American Nature Society, for his contribution to children's science literature and the New York Academy of Sciences Children's Book Award.

Seymour Simon's experience as a teacher is evident in his works which inspire children to explore and enjoy all aspects of science. He has tried to reach children at a variety of ages and at different reading levels with his various series of books about Animals, Our Planet, the Solar System, the Human Body, "Let's Try it Out," Simon's newest series, "See More Books," is designed for ages 4 - 8 so they too can begin to explore different topics in science. Seymour Simon has truly been a major influence in the non-fiction collections of school and public libraries throughout the country.

SUGGESTIONS WANTED FOR THE EMPIRE STATE AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE IN LITERATURE FOR YOUNG PEOPLE

First presented in 1990 by the Youth Services' Section of the New York Library Association, the Empire State Award is a one-time award presented to a living author or illustrator currently residing in New York State.

The award honors a body of work that represents excellence in Children's or Young Adult literature and has made a significant contribution to literature for young people. The Award, an engraved medallion, is presented to the winning author or illustrator at the Annual Conference of the New York Library Association.

Any member of the Youth Services' Section is eligible to submit a suggestion to the Committee Chair. The Committee members will consider these suggestions along with their own. The decision for the Award rests with the Committee and is approved by the YSS Executive Board. The three committee members must have a working knowledge of Children's and Young Adult literature and sufficient experience in Youth Services to have developed an understanding of the body of Children's and Young Adult literature.

Please send suggestions for the 2004 Empire State Award to Committee Chair, Zahra Baird by November 21, 2003.

Zahra M. Baird, Chappaqua Public Library, 195 South Greeley Ave., Chappaqua, NY 10514. zianmocmhotmail.com

Author/Illustrator you are suggesting -

Your Name:

Library Affiliation:

Your Contact Information -

Address:

Phone:

E-Mail:

Starbucks Foundation Offers Youth Leadership Grant Program

Deadline: October 1, 2003

A philanthropic program of Starbucks Coffee, the Starbucks Foundation funds local programs that serve low-income, at- risk youth through its Youth Leadership Grant Program.

Grants range from $5,000 to $20,000 and are given in two areas:
1) Power of Literacy -- Funding for programs that stimulate personal development and a commitment to social equity, justice, and environmental awareness through writing, literacy and expression in public forums.
2) Leaders in Diversity -- Funding for programs that teach the value of societal diversity and develop youth leadership skills to foster understanding between individuals, groups and communities.

The Starbucks Foundation provides funding to registered nonprofit 501 (c)(3) charities that deliver services to youth between the ages of 6 to 18 and address at least on of the foundation's Youth Leaders action areas; provide opportunities for Starbucks partners and stores to be integrated in a meaningful way; are nondiscriminatory in their policies and practices with regards to physical abilities, gender, race, age, sexual orientation, ethnic origin, and/or creed. In addition, priority will be given to organizations that reach traditionally underserved communities and communities of color; represent models in nontraditional learning environments and are directly engaged in service delivery; demonstrate program sustainability.

For complete program information, applications, and examples of past recipients, see the Starbucks Web site. RFP Link: http://www.starbucks.com/aboutus/grantinfo.asp

[september 2003][top 2003]

Library Related Courses

Internet MLS Distance Learning Course for Fall 2003

Although this course is already in progress, we have posted this information for your future reference.

The Department of Library and Information Studies at the University at Buffalo, an ALA accredited program, will offer the following graduate course over the Internet for the Fall 2003 semester.

Fall Semester courses will be offered August 25 - December 8, 2003

LIS 581 - Management of Libraries and Information Agencies

See the Distance Learning Web Page for cost and online registration details:

http://informatics.buffalo.edu/faculty/ellison/distance.html

See link to course descriptions at:

http://informatics.buffalo.edu/faculty/ellison/ellison.html

Designing for Technology Integration

NEIRTEC announces the next session of *** Designing for Technology Integration *** - an innovative seven-week course combining online learning with a two-day face-to-face institute. The course starts Sept 24 and ends Nov 12. A two-day face-to-face Institute (part of the course) will take place on October 9-10 (Thurs-Fri) at the ACES Center in Hamden, CT (just north of New Haven). We will give priority to applications received by Sept 10.

This is the first of two sessions of the NEIRTEC DTI course that have been scheduled for the 2003-2004 school year. For more information on the DTI course and to register, visit our website at http://neirtec.terc.edu and click on Enroll.

Registration is $200/person. This fee includes all course materials, continental breakfast and lunch on both days of the face-to-face institute, and dinner the first evening of the institute. The cost of lodging and transportation is the responsibility of the participants or their districts. We will arrange a group discount rate at a local hotel and anticipate that the lodging cost will be $75 - $85/room each night. Specifics about lodging will be sent after you have received your notice of acceptance.

The course is offered for graduate credit. Three graduate credits will be given for participation in the online course, the face-to-face institute, and completion of a unit of practice. The cost of the graduate credit component is $150 (approx.) and is in addition to the registration fee.

NEIRTEC is the Regional Technology in Education Consortium for the Northeast and serves the six New England States, New York, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands. NEIRTEC focuses on helping educational leaders at the state, district, and school levels address the many challenges involved in linking technology to student achievement in the core academic areas, with a particular emphasis on the needs of schools in underserved urban and rural communities. To view our online resources, learn about other online courses we offer, or to find out more about NEIRTEC, see http://www.neirtec.org.

[september 2003][top 2003]

Announcements

Rensselaerswijck Seminar Commemorates Dutch Presence in the New World

Participants can help celebrate the 350th anniversary of the chartering of New Amsterdam as a municipality at the New Netherland Project's 26th Rensselaerswijck Seminar, "New Amsterdam: a Dutch City in the New World", on Saturday, September 20 at the New York Genealogical & Bibliographical Society. The New Netherland Project is headquartered in the New York State Library.

Cap off the day with a dinner cruise around midtown and lower Manhattan aboard the private yacht, The Empress, from 6:00-10:30 that evening. And to make the weekend complete, come for breakfast at Schermerhorn Row, South Street Seaport Museum at 9:00 a.m. Sunday, followed by a walking tour of the original defensive wall built in 1653. In the afternoon, there will be a chance to preview twenty antiquarian maps which will be on display at the Walsh Library of Fordham University (Rose Mill Campus, the Bronx).

For details on program content and registration fees, please visit http://www.nnp.org, call Friends of New Netherland at (518) 486-4815, or email nyslfnn@mail.nysed.gov.

NOVEL Reaches Goal of 4,400 Participating Libraries in 2003!

On June 30, 2003, the number of libraries statewide that have signed up to give their users access to NOVEL (New York Online Virtual Electronic Library) numbered 4,400. This milestone achieves the goal set last year by the State Library and represents an increase of 775 libraries, or 20 percent, over last July. Since NOVEL began in 1999, its databases have been used for 19 million searches, including more than 9 million since July 2002.

NOVEL's most recent additions are school libraries, with a few colleges adding libraries on different campuses. With some 6,000 schools across New York State, school libraries are the largest group enabling their users to benefit from the rich resources available through NOVEL.

The successful registration of a large number of school libraries is the result of the State Library's strong outreach efforts and the work and cooperation of the school library systems, school librarians, teachers, and school administrators who recognize the importance of delivering access to high-quality electronic resources. Particularly in high-need districts, making these databases available helps to level the playing field between disadvantaged children, whose only means of access to electronic information may be the school library, and more affluent students. An increase in the number of NOVEL databases appropriate for schools, such as InfoTrac Junior and Twayne Author Series, as well as Spanish-language resources, over the last months have also made the collections more student-friendly and appealing to those working with children in K–12.

The cost of providing access to the electronic resources available through NOVEL would be prohibitive for an individual library. But every $1 spent by the State Library to provide shared access to electronic information brings about a $30 return for individual libraries.

The NOVEL Steering Committee, whose members represent all types of libraries statewide, is working toward expansion of NOVEL to provide a gateway, or portal, for all New Yorkers to the resources of libraries throughout the state. These resources include online catalogs, digitized collections of photographs, images, maps, manuscripts, encyclopedias, journals, and other resources. In addition to the databases themselves, NOVEL is intended to offer a networked library in which librarians apply their expertise to create paths to useful sites, to verify the accuracy and currency of data, and to validate resources.

For more information on NOVEL background and available databases visit the NOVEL website at http://www.nysl.nysed.gov/library/novel/. For specific information on the NOVEL databases, contact Janet Jamal at the School Library System Office. Janet can be reached at (telephone) 345-8500, ext. 122; (fax) 592-4438; or e-mail jjamal@swboces.org.

Banned Books Week 2003

Banned Books Week is now less than a month away. Below are links and documents developed by the ALA that we hope will be helpful for you.

Banned Books Week press kit materials
http://tinyurl.com/libj

A Quick and Easy Guide to Banned Books Week for Librarians
http://www.ala.org/bbooks/forlibrarians

METRO Magnet: an Online Career Center

The Metropolitan New York Library Council (METRO) has created the METRO Magnet http://www.metro.org/magnet, an online career center. The METRO Magnet includes an online job bank and resume bank and an informational web site, which went live on August 1, 2003. Brochures about the service are being mailed to METRO member libraries. Area librarians can use the site to look for new opportunities and promotions. The METRO Magnet site includes links to Local Placement Firms, Library Membership Organizations, Accredited LIS Schools and Financial Aid Information. The METRO Magnet includes a variety of information to promote the advantages of working in a METRO-area library. Main topics include:

• METRO Magnet Job and Resume Bank: an online database that allows you to post job openings, to search through resumes of job seekers to find job candidates, and to post resumes
• Working in the METRO Area: a section that includes profiles of librarians and METRO member libraries to give people a feel for the opportunities available here
• Growing Your Career in the METRO Area: a section that provides an overview of the many opportunities for professional development available in the METRO area through continuing education, METRO special interest groups, and participation in local library organizations
• Resources for job seekers and for employers

This project is supported in part by Federal Library Services and Technology Act funds awarded to the New York State Library by the Federal Institute of Museum and Library Services.

THE NEW YORK CENTER FOR THE BOOK
(an affiliate of the Library of Congress Center for the Book)

THE NEW YORK CENTER FOR THE BOOK invites all New York cultural institutions to join in a multi-institutional celebration during APRIL 2004.

*** IMMIGRANT WRITING IN NEW YORK STATE ***

During the month of April, 2004, New York State will explore its rich heritage of Immigrant Writing through public programs in a variety of cultural and educational institutions. No other state has welcomed so many individuals and groups from other lands, just as no other state has been so intensively described in the writing of immigrants. The purpose of this state-wide celebration is to deepen familiarity and foster pride in the extraordinary wealth of the New York State literary heritage. This multi-institutional event will celebrate this tradition and the people who created it.

The New York Center for the Book invites cultural institutions (libraries, museums, historical societies, reading groups, bookstores, schools, churches and others) to join in this state-wide activity through programs and activities suitable to their own missions. Cooperating institutions are free to pursue the topic independently in any way they wish. The New York Center for the Book will publicize activities reported to the Center through its web-page and other means.

• An exhibition of immigrant photographs, letters, and diaries
• A reading of the short stories of an immigrant writer (on the radio or in an auditorium)
• An exhibition of early printing produced in New York State
• The publication in a local newspaper of essays written by recent immigrants currently enrolled in literacy classes.

Please contact the New York Center for the Book about appropriate events in your institution, already planned or newly conceived, so that they can be included in their joint publicity. Although they cannot provide funding for this program, they will share fund-raising ideas and other practical advice through their web page at http://www.newyorkbooks.org/immigrant-writing.htm.

[september 2003][top 2003]

Resources

CLCD News Volume 2, Issue 8 August 2003

"My, how you've grown!" Every child has certainly heard this numerous times. Now that the Children's Literature Comprehensive Database (CLCD) is four years old, this is being heard from longtime subscribers. The depth and breadth of the review sources has grown and now includes a half dozen international sources. They have added book jacket images, author/illustrator web links, awards, prizes, reading programs, and even a bookstore. You can read about these changes and the variety of ways the CLCD database can streamline the tasks you perform every day. Just go to their website at http://www.childrenslit.com and click on "About" and go to "Press Releases." Click on "A New Look for the Children's Literature Comprehensive Database." You'll discover why CLCD is the standard for children's literature databases.

They are delighted to announce that Vicki's Bookshelf which appears in The Midwest Book Review has joined CLCD. Also look for reviews from the Canadian Children's Book Centre which will also soon be incorporated in the database. For those of you undertaking scholarly research they will be adding the book reviews from Children's Literature Abstracts.

The Awards Honors and Prizes section of the database notes when a book has won a specific award, while the other two sections State and Provincial Reading Lists, and Best Books reflect that the book has appeared on the specific list which may include nominees for specific awards.

If you saw something in a previous newsletter and want to go back to it, check the list of prior newsletters under the database services menu heading-many of the items of interest are hotlinked so it will make your search much easier.

All of this information and much more is at your fingertips and is easy enough to use that many public library systems have opted to make the database available to their patrons both in the library and from home. If you are interested in more details or a trial, please contact Janet Jamal at the School Library System Office. Janet can be reached at (telephone) 345-8500, ext. 122; (fax) 592-4438; or e-mail jjamal@swboces.org.

"Books Alive" Olean Public Library 2002 Parent Child Library Services Grant

During the 2002-2003 school year the Olean Public Library (OPL) in partnership with Ivers J. Norton Elementary School (IJN) and Literacy Volunteers of America of Cattaraugus County, Inc. (LVA-CC) developed, packaged and presented "Books Alive" a literature based family reading program. This program was funded in part by a New York Parent and Child Library Services Grant.

The purpose of "Books Alive" is to introduce families to a variety of age-appropriate children's literature and to motivate independent leisure reading. The intended audience for "Books Alive" is children in grades 3, 4, and 5, and their families. During the course of the project six different framework programs in which books will "come alive" for parents and children were created. Programs were structured to supply a framework for introducing books, providing extended reading and writing activities, and offering follow-up family activities. The "Books Alive" programs can be adapted to a variety of literature.

To access the programs and activities of the "Books Alive" program go to the Olean Public Library website at http://www.oleanlibrary.org/childrens and click on the Books Alive link. Printed copied of resoures manuels and activities are available on request.

Teaching Books

Teaching books is a new subscription-based web site where educators and students can hear established children's authors talk about their works. Users can watch recorded interviews and short biographical sketches, pose questions to be answered by the writer, access teachers' guides, and view research materials and pre-screened links to children's book resources. Resources are organized into 4 categories: author, subject, title, and grade.

You can use the site for free until Oct. 15. Please contact Janet Jamal at the School Library System office for your access code. Janet can be reached at (telephone) 345-8500, ext. 122; (fax) 592-4438; or e-mail jjamal@swboces.org. Final pricing has not been established.

NY Librarian's Index to the Internet

Middletown Thrall Library maintains a browsable/searchable Internet resource guide to New York State, City, and local area information some librarians might find helpful: http://www.thrall.org/newyork

The City College of New York's Iraq Bibliography

The City College of New York's Cohen Library has posted a major update (over 80 pages of new content) to the bibliography of online primary resources about Iraq on the City College website.

The City College of New York's Cohen Library's Iraq Bibliography site is called "Government Views of Iraq" and can be found at: http://www.ccny.cuny.edu/library/Divisions/Government/Iraqbib.html.

The site concentrates on Government documents and information and while the bulk of the resources are from the United States, there are international entries as well.

Resources include such items as U.S. Congressional Hearings and Resolutions, Federal Agency reports, transcripts of press conferences and briefings, USAID Fact Sheets, legislation, news releases and Presidential Communications, as well as texts of United Nations Security Council Resolutions, the Geneva Conventions and Protcols and selected international treaties.

The resources are now divided into 58 subject areas including Agriculture and Forestry, Geology, No-Fly Zones, Aviation, Governance Post Saddam, Nuclear Resources, Broadcasting, Gulf War 1990-1991, Operation Desert Fox, Bush Doctrine, Halabja, POWs & MIAs, Captured Iraqi Documents, Health Presidential Communications, CENTCOM Briefings, Health - Gulf War 1990-1991, Reconstruction, Climate, History, Refugees & Displaced Persons, Coalition of the Willing, Human Rights, Religion, Congressional Research Service Reports, Human Shields, Saddam Hussein, Congressional Resolutions & Legislation, Humanitarian Aid, Sanctions & Oil-for-Food Programme, Crisis in Iraq 2003, Inspections, Trade, Cultural Heritage, Iran-Iraq War 1980-1988, Transporation, Cuneiforms, Iraqi "Most Wanted", U.N. Resolutions, Demographics, Journalists, U.S. Policy Towards Iraq, Economic and Finance, Kurds, Water & Sanitation, Education, Leaflets, Weapons of Mass Destruction, Energy, Legal Resources, Who's Who - Iraq War 2003, Environment, Maps, Women, General Background, Marine & Maritime, Geneva Conventions & Protocols and Newspapers.

2-1-1 Dialing Code...... The number to dial for Health and Human Services Information and Referral

Coming Soon to New York State........2-1-1 Dialing Code...... The number to dial for Health and Human Services Information and Referral Members of the 2-1-1 New York Collaborative have been working for several years under the leadership of Susan Hager, President of the United Way of New York State, and Linda Daily, Executive Director of FIRST, Inc of Westchester County, to establish the 2-1-1 free dialing code for health and human servcies information in New York State. Regional call centers are planned where callers will speak with certified Information and Referral specialists who will guide them to needed local services. Crisis calls will be handled by the 2-1-1 call center or by a local crisis service.

A list of the 2-1-1 New York Collaborative regional and local contacts, along with additional information for libraries and the endorsement of the New York State Librarian, is available on the State Library's Division of Library Development website @ http://www.nysl.nysed.gov/libdev/outreach/211nys.htm. Some of the information there is currently being updated but you may click on "New York State 2-1-1 Collaborative Contacts" for the current regional contact list. Pilot sites are indicated with a gold asterisk on the list.

Work towards 2-1-1 implementation has progressed as the demonstration pilot sites prepare their collaborative applications for assignment of the 2-1-1 dialing code to their regions. The three pilot sites are Central Referral Service in Buffalo for Western New York; United Way of Westchester and Putnam for the Taconic Region; and The Health Association/LIFE LINE for the Finger Lakes Region. Further information on the status of the pilot sites should be obtained from the regional coordinators.

For more information on 2-1-1 statewide and nationally, see the official websites:
http://www.211ny.org
http://www.211.org

[september 2003][top 2003]

The Scout Report

Partial Index for July 25, 2003

2. MoMA.org: Mies in Berlin/Mies in Ameria
http://www.moma.org/mies/

4. European Space Agency: Mars Express
http://www.esa.int/SPECIALS/Mars_Express/

5. Aesop's Fables Online Collection [Real One Player]
http://www.aesopfables.com/

6. GlobalEDGE: International Business Resource Desk
http://globaledge.msu.edu/ibrd/ibrd.asp

7. The Dickens Project
http://humwww.ucsc.edu/dickens/index.html

8. Archivos Virtuales: Papers of Latino and Latin American Artists
http://artarchives.si.edu/guides/archivos/index.cfm

9. The Third Rail
http://www.thethirdrail.net

10. The Library of Congress Federal Research Division: Country Studies
http://memory.loc.gov/frd/cs/cshome.html

11. SoYouWanna.com
http://www.soyouwanna.com

13. George Eastman House [QuickTime, Windows Media Player]
http://www.eastman.org/

14. Smithsonian National Zoological Park: Giant Pandas: 2003 Pregnancy Watch
http://natzoo.si.edu/Animals/GiantPandas/PandaConservation/2003PregnancyWatch/

17. Back to the Basics: Organic Farms, CSAs and Farmers Markets USDA Alternative Farming Systems Information Center
http://www.nal.usda.gov/afsic/csa/
Organic Europe
http://www.organic-europe.net/
USDA Agricultural Marketing Service: Farmers Markets
http://www.ams.usda.gov/farmersmarkets/
Local Harvest
http://www.localharvest.org/

From The Scout Report, Copyright Internet Scout Project 1994-2003.
http://scout.wisc.edu/

Partial Index for August 1, 2003

1. NSDL Scout Report for Math, Engineering, and Technology
http://scout.cs.wisc.edu/nsdl-reports/met/2003/met-030801.html

2. Historical Research in Europe: A Guide to Archives and Libraries
http://webcat.library.wisc.edu:3200/HistResEur/

3. Washington State Library: Digital Best Practices
http://digitalwa.statelib.wa.gov/newsite/best.htm

5. Smithsonian Education [pdf. Macromedia Flash Reader, RealOne Player]
http://www.smithsonianeducation.org/

6. Speech Accent Archive [QuickTime Player]
http://classweb.gmu.edu/accent/

7. America's Most Literate Cities [pdf]
http://www.uww.edu/cities/

8. Art of the First World War
http://www.art-ww1.com/gb/index2.html

9. Natural History Museum's Wildlife Garden [QuickTime]
http://www.nhm.ac.uk/museum/garden/

10. Vatican Museums
http://mv.vatican.va/3_EN/pages/MV_Home.html

11. Two on Poet Robert Lowell Academy of American Poets: Robert Lowell
http://www.poets.org/poets/poets.cfm?prmID=10
Salon.com: Robert Lowell, "The Voice of the Poet" [RealOne Player]
http://www.salon.com/audio/2000/10/05/lowell/index.html

12. The Gutenberg Bible at the Ransom Center
http://www.hrc.utexas.edu/exhibitions/permanent/gutenberg/

From The Scout Report, Copyright Internet Scout Project 1994-2003.
http://scout.wisc.edu/

Future Events

Events to put on your calendar for the days and months ahead

Rensselaerswijck Seminar Commemorates Dutch Presence in the New World

September 20, 2003
New York Genealogical & Bibliographical Society

2003 NYLA - Annual Conference

November 5-8, 2003
Saratoga Springs, NY

Fall Into Books

October 16, 2003
Mt. Alphonsus, NY

AASL (American Association of School Librarians) 11th National Conference & Exhibition

October 22-26, 2003
Kansas City, Missouri

Council Meetings

September 29, 2003
November 24, 2003
January 26, 2004
March 22, 2004
May 17, 2004

[sept 2003][top 2003]