Podcasting @ the Library

Just a little note - Pioneer Library System has done their first "official" podcast. You should be able to listen to it here.

What did it take to do this?
1 librarian
1 nerdy tech librarian
1 poet
1 laptop with audacity
1 cheapo microphone (hope to upgrade that to a not so cheapo one)
1 month with a theme

So what are your podcasts?

Norman talks about a new public library

From the Norman Transcript:

...Building a new library and vacating the Norman Public Library space at 225 N. Webster Ave. would free up the building for the crowded public works department. The Norman Senior Citizens Center also could move into the space, effectively doubling its square footage.

McKinney estimated it would take about $11 million to renovate the current library space and Building B.

"The library is leaking badly and it would take major work to salvage," he said, estimating renovation costs at $3 million for roof and mechanical systems if the library remained there.

Lewis said the office would be renovated to standard office space.

"The office space needs not to be the Taj Mahal," he said.

A new library would account for $49.5 million of the bond vote, a number that could be reduced with private fundraising. Library proponents have set a goal of raising at least 10 percent of the total privately. The library would tentatively be located on the southeast corner of East Main Street and Porter Avenue.

"If we meet our private fundraising goal, we don't have to issue the additional bonds," Rosenthal said. "And we know there are some real opportunities to do that."

Rosenthal said the library committee is going to challenge the community to raise funds for the library, so some of the costs can be defrayed and extra features built in....

Everybody was kung fu librarianing...

Nelson reports on a workshop he recently added. This newly anointed black belt librarian reports on what he learned!

August 21, 2007 – Mustang Public Library

Warren Graham’s workshop, the first offered in Oklahoma, “The Black Belt Librarian” sponsored by OLA was one of those workshops which got ideas spinning long after the program were over. To my surprise the presentation was far more psychological than physical and was well suited for all library personnel, from shelvers all the way up to library administrators. If you ever have a chance to hear Graham speak, please do so because it is well worth it. You will get a philosophy of library services in a different context, yet a point of view which can be beneficial for everyone that walks through our doors.

Graham has spent 25 years in security, including 17 at the Public Library of Charlotte and Mecklenburg County, NC, before retiring in 2006 to establish Warren Graham Training and Consulting. He regularly travels across the country to all varieties of libraries providing security training; his book Black Belt Librarians which he presentation was based on details his methods.

Graham explains that libraries are in conflict because security of the collections, staff, and patrons is a priority for libraries and at the same time, libraries maintains its traditional role as an open, public space designed in making its resources available to all people. Graham states that librarians today have to make a choice on better security procedures because “we always do it this way” or “we never had this problem before” are classic statements that we can no longer afford to say. Case after case is made where libraries are not secure and librarians and the patrons are suffering, including our libraries in Oklahoma.

Handling difficult customers for public service staff and managers was one of the talking points Graham used and we did role playing exercises which was a lot of fun. Graham also covered topics such as:

• Entry and exit procedures
• Personal belonging restrictions
• Conduct on library premises
• Alarm and monitoring systems
• Emergency and disaster response
• Securing staff areas
• Lock and key security procedures

Graham uses the “AAA” rule which stands for attitude, approach and analysis. He gave real life experiences for each definition. It speaks volumes to have worked in a library for a good length of time and relay these experiences to an audience that is willing to receive it. It was a packed room in wonderful new Mustang facility (if you ever in Mustang, check out their new building) and I suspect that if this was offered again, it would be standing room only. Hopefully Mr. Graham will be asked back at the annual conference so we all can benefit from his experiences.

The main theme for the presentation and the throughout his book is communication, not Karate moves. Graham’s website states it best, if there's a single golden rule, it's to “never think about confronting the patron. It's all about communication. If you think, for example, 'The patron is doing something that is against the library rules so now I need to confront him about it,' you'll tense up mentally and physically. You'll be working against your own viscosity. Most patrons will comply if you ask them the right way, and that is what I train staff to do.” For more on The Black Belt Librarians the website can be found at: http://www.blackbeltlibrarians.com/.

OLA, with Linda Gens and Kay Boies did a nice job presenting this workshop. However, it is up to us to take this message and take it to heart. We all need to be safe in our workplace and this is a mindset that all of us need to take action on and it starts from within. Some of us do have paid security or take extra proactive measures to be safe, but are we doing the right kinds of things at the right time? I work with a staff that knows from firsthand experience that anything can happen at anytime.

Reporter: Nelson D. - Information Services Librarian, Norman Public Library.

Job Posting | Norman

NORMAN PUBLIC LIBRARY
225 N. Webster
Norman, OK 73069
701-2600

POSITION: Information Services Librarian

BEGINNING SALARY: Grade 11 Base ($2897.00/mo)

WORKING CONDITIONS: Must be available to work a
flexible schedule which may
include evenings and weekends.

APPLICATIONS ACCEPTED: August 17, though August 27, 2007

POSITION SUMMARY:
Performs library reference, reader's advisory and other public services for the Norman Public Library and the Pioneer Library System. Maintains working knowledge of current books and trends in library services.

JOB REQUIREMENTS:

1. Education and/or experience:
a. Master's Degree in Library Science from a graduate school accredited by the American Library Association
b. Experience in public library reference preferred.

2. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
a. Principles and practices of library science
b. Books and book publishing
c. Trends in information science
d. Performing detailed routines requiring accuracy
e. Maintain open communication in a team-centered work atmosphere
f. Deliver courteous, accurate reference information to public in person and on the telephone
g. Use on-line catalog systems and personal computers
h. Be flexible in meeting customer needs throughout the library
i. Lift up to 20 lbs
j. Retrieve and replace items from floor level to at least 5 1/2 feet in height
k. Communicate effectively in both oral and written form

APPLICATIONS:

Apply to Circulation Desk, 225 N. Webster, Norman, Oklahoma 73069. Applications will be accepted through August 27, 2007. Resumes alone are not sufficient; Applications are required and form may be obtained at any of the branches of the Pioneer Library System or at www.pioneer.lib.ok.us

Job Posting | OU

THE UNIVERSITY OF OKLAHOMA

Library Faculty Vacancy

POSITION: CATALOGER (SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY)

DUTIES: Under the direction of the Head of the Catalog Department, the Science & Technology Cataloger uses OCLC and the library management system to perform original and complex cataloging in science and technology and other subjects, in a variety of languages in both print and non-print formats. Tasks include work with name, series and subject authority control, and other general assignments. This position also supervises students and staff on cataloging projects. This is a tenure-track position governed by the University’s policies requiring research or creative achievement and professional service as outlined in the University's Faculty Handbook at http://www.ou.edu/provost/pronew/content/fhbmenu.html.

QUALIFICATIONS:
Required: MLS from ALA accredited library school; knowledge of cataloging principles and standards, including AACR2, MARC formats, and LC classification and subject headings; familiarity with automated cataloging systems; demonstrated cataloging experience; bibliographic knowledge of one or more European languages; excellent communication and organizational skills.

Desirable: Broad educational background in science, mathematics, or technology; second master’s degree; supervisory experience; NACO experience; evidence of research or creative achievement.

FIRST SCREENING DATE: September 10, 2007.

SEARCH WILL REMAIN OPEN UNTIL FILLED.

SALARY: Commensurate with qualifications and experience.

BENEFITS: State and University Defined Benefit and Defined Contribution Retirement Systems; 33 days paid leave; University holidays; comprehensive medical protection; group life insurance; and reduced tuition. For more information http://www.hr.ou.edu/benefits/.

UNIVERSITY OF OKLAHOMA LIBRARIES: A member of the Association of Research Libraries, Center for Research Libraries, Greater Western Library Alliance, AMIGOS Library Services, and the Oklahoma Library Technology Network, the University of Oklahoma Libraries consists of the Bizzell Memorial Library, six branch libraries, and four special collections: History of Science, Western History, Bass Business History, and Nichols Rare Books and Special Collections. The library system includes more than 4.9 million volumes and 63,000 serial subscriptions in its general collections. The University Libraries is committed to the integration of electronic resources with traditional library resources to create a superior learning environment. The Libraries operates a SIRSI library management system for local holdings. The University Libraries is a NACO contributing library. More information about the University of Oklahoma Libraries and its services may be found at http://libraries.ou.edu. Founded in 1890, the University of Oklahoma (OU) enrolls over 30,000 students in 20 colleges (http://ou.edu). OU is located in the heart of Norman, Oklahoma http://www.ci.norman.ok.us/), an attractive community of tree-lined streets within the Oklahoma City metropolitan area. Norman is noted for its low cost of living, quality schools, and friendliness.

EMPLOYMENT: Librarians have faculty status, privileges, responsibilities, the rank of assistant professor or above, and are eligible for tenure.

APPLICATION: Send letter of application, addressing how your experiences relate to the position duties and qualifications, along with resume, a list of publications, and the names of three references, including current supervisor to: Rhonda Cannon, Director of Administrative Services, University Libraries, University of Oklahoma, Norman, OK 73019, rhondacannon@ou.edu. Please identify current supervisor on your list of references.

UNIVERSITY OF OKLAHOMA IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY/AFFIRMATIVE ACTION EMPLOYER.
WE ENCOURAGE WOMEN AND MINORITY APPLICANTS.

Job Posting | Norman

POSITION OPEN

LIBRARIAN, CENTER FOR READER’S SERVICES

PIONEER LIBRARY SYSTEM SERVICE CENTER

1210 McGee Drive

NORMAN, OK 73072

405-701-1846

BEGINNING SALARY: $1213.00/mo through $1449.00/mo

Salary based on education and experience

WORKING CONDITIONS: 1/2 Time position.- 20 hrs/wk

APPLICATIONS ACCEPTED: July 6 through July 16, 2007

POSITION SUMMARY:

Responsible for assisting with marketing and programming support and materials selection for the Center for Reader’s Services. Works with the coordinator to develop innovative and traditional services to promote reading, market the library as the primary resource for reading material for both pleasure and information, to coordinate system-wide programming and coordinate the selection of new material.

QUALIFICATIONS:

1. Education and/or experience:

a. Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s degree in Library and Information Science from a graduate school accredited by the American Library Association preferred.

b. Two years professional library experience

2. Knowledge, skills and abilities:

a. Current principles and practices in Library and Information Science.

b. Library policies and procedures.

c. Use of technology in library applications.

d. Skills in planning and delivering staff training programs.

e. Skills in oral and written communication and ability to communicate in an effective positive manner..

f. Skills in organizing and analyzing data.

g. Skill in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with library customers and branch and system staff.

h. Ability to work on multiple tasks simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.

i. Lift up to 20 lbs.

j. Retrieve and replace items from floor level to at least 5 ½ feet in height.

k. Work a flexible schedule which may include evenings and weekends.

Apply to Collections Coordinator, Pioneer Library System Service Center, 1210 McGee, Norman, OK., 73072 Applications will be accepted through July 16, 2007. Résumé alone is not sufficient; completed application form is required. Application form available from any branch of the Pioneer Library System or www.pioneer.lib.ok.us.

Job Posting | Norman

DEVELOPMENT OFFICER

PIONEER LIBRARY SYSTEM
225 N. WEBSTER
NORMAN, OK 73069
405-701-2643



BEGINNING SALARY: Grade 16 Base ($54,168.00/yr)

WORKING CONDITIONS: Full Time position.- 40 hrs/wk

APPLICATIONS ACCEPTED: June 15 through June 30, 2007

POSITION SUMMARY:

Develops, coordinates and implements fundraising activities for the Pioneer Library System; develops a culture of philanthropy that enhances the library’s community presence and benefits library programs and activities.

QUALIFICATIONS:
1. Education and/or experience:
a. Bachelor’s degree required.
b. Master’s degree in Library and Information Science preferred
c. Minimum 5 years experience in fundraising, grant writing or related field.

2. Knowledge, skills and abilities:
a. Excellent communication skills both oral and written.
b. Comfortable with public speaking and making solicitations.
c. Excellent organizational skills.
d. Computer skills including word processing relational databases.
e. Valid Oklahoma driver’s license
f. Ability to make independent decisions based on good business practices and library philosophy.
g. Write Grants and proposals.
h. Relate to diverse audiences.
i. Travel to complete work assignments.
j. Lift up to 20 lbs.
k. Retrieve and replace items from floor level to at least 5 ½ feet in height.
l. Work a flexible schedule which may include nights and weekends.


Apply to Director, Pioneer Library System, 225 N. Webster, Norman, OK., 73069 Applications will be accepted through June 30, 2007. Résumé alone is not sufficient; completed application form is required. Application form may be obtained at any branch of the Pioneer Library System or www.pioneer.lib.ok.us.

June 13 | Harry & the Potters in Norman

It's Harry & the Potters' only stop in Oklahoma this summer -- and it goes along with Mugglefest v.2 -- so give Norman Public Library a call and see if tickets are still available.

June 13 - Norman, OK - Sooner Theater

Not sure you'll like their music? Check out their Myspace page.

Bizzell get's graphic!

I wandered upon a picture of old Bizzell on a graphic novel cover over at Ryan Kelly's blog Funrama. Seems it makes an appearance in the Local series, by Oni Press.

"Wish You Were Here" - After hearing news of her parents' death, Megan McKeenan travels to Norman, Oklahoma to see the exact location where her parents first met - in front of the Bizzel[l] Library on the U[of]O Norman Campus. She has an old family photo from that moment in the past, and in an effort to process her loss, she attempts to recreate it with her new boyfriend.

Norman Public Schools library media program recognized

Buffy sends this library story

CHICAGO -Norman (Okla.) Public School District, Harpeth Hall in Nashville, Tenn. and North Elementary School in Noblesville, Ind. will receive this year's National School Library Media Program of the Year Award (NSLMPY) from the American Association of School Librarians (AASL), a division of the American Library Association (ALA). The honors will be presented at the AASL Awards Luncheon at the ALA Annual Conference in Washington, D.C. on Monday, June 25, 2007.

The 2007 School District award goes to Norman Public Schools in Norman, Okla., with 21 schools serving 13,000 students. The Norman library media program is aligned with the overall district plan of instruction, resulting in numerous opportunities for creative and innovative collaboration. There is evidence of strong support from the central administration, and the library media program is an important component of the district’s long-range strategic plan. The program is further strengthened through ongoing, cooperative relationships with the local community, including the Pioneer Library System and the University of Oklahoma School of Library and Information Studies.

Job Postings | Norman

Norman Public Schools has openings for School Library Media Specialist positions. Go to http://www.norman.k12.ok.us/site/personnel for information and an application.

On the left side of the page select "Employment Opportunities." Scroll down to Library Media Specialist in the alphabetical listing.

Job Posting | Norman

Serials and Electronic Resources Librarian, Acquisitions

University of Oklahoma Libraries, Oklahoma

Salary: Not Specified
Status: Full-time
Posted: 04/20/07

Serials and Electronic Resources Librarian, Acquisitions
THE UNIVERSITY OF OKALHOMA

Library Faculty Vacancy

POSITION: Serials and Electronic Resources Librarian, Acquisitions

DUTIES: Reporting to the Head of Acquisitions, the Serials and Electronic Resources Librarian is responsible for managing the acquisition of electronic resources, as well as print serials and other continuing resources. Establishes subscriptions, registers, monitors and troubleshoots subscription related access to electronic resources. Communicates with vendors/publishers to expedite and sustain access to electronic resources. Supervises and trains staff in the Acquisitions Department. This is a tenure track position governed by the university’s policies requiring research or creative achievement and professional services as outlined by the Faculty Handbook at http://www.ou.edu/provost/pronew/content/fhbmenu.html.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Required: MLS from ALA accredited library school; effective communication, interpersonal, organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills; evidence of skill in coordinating projects and attention to detail; familiarity with automated acquisitions, serials systems and OCLC; recent serials acquisitions experience; and recent supervisory experience.

Desirable: Demonstrated competencies in managing or troubleshooting electronic resources; one or more years of recent professional serials experience in an academic library; one or more years of recent supervisory experience in an academic library; experience working in a dynamic, demand-driven environment; the ability to work collaboratively as well as independently; demonstrated ability to be flexible with working assignments; and evidence of research or creative achievement.

For a complete listing of the duties and responsibilities for this position go to http://libraries.ou.edu/about/employment/.

FIRST SCREENING DATE: May 31, 2007

SEARCH WILL REMAIN OPEN UNTIL FILLED.

SALARY: Commensurate with qualifications and experience.

EMPLOYMENT: Librarians have faculty status, privileges, responsibilities, the rank of assistant professor or above, and are eligible for tenure.

APPLICATION: Send letter of application, addressing how your experiences relate to the position duties and qualifications, along with resume, a list of publications, and the names of three references, including current supervisor to: Rhonda Cannon, Director of Administrative Services, University Libraries, University of Oklahoma, 401 W. Brooks Street, Norman, OK 73019, or rhondacannon@ou.edu.

UNIVERSITY OF OKLAHOMA IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY/AFFIRMATIVE ACTION EMPLOYER. WE ENCOURAGE WOMEN AND MINORITY APPLICANTS.

Free Ubuntu Workshop

I believe this might be the first library programming of this type in Oklahoma (please correct me if I'm wrong). And I'm proud to say that two gentlemen I work with have developed this introduction. Yes I know this is a little early -- but I want to make sure the word gets out -- so mark your calendars and feel the linux love on Thursday, May 31 from 3pm-5pm !

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Introduction to Ubuntu
Registration begins on May 1 at 9am, in the Norman Public Library Computer Training Center. After 12pm on May1, You can call 701-2620 to register.
Intended for the intermediate/advanced computer user -- Minimum registration of 5 for the class to be presented

Do you have an older computer running Windows 95 or 98?
Do you want to upgrade to a more secure operating system?
Do you want to learn about Open Source?
Then you’ll want to learn more about Ubuntu...

What is Ubuntu?
Ubuntu is a community developed, linux-based operating system that is perfect for laptops, desktops and servers. It contains all the applications you need - a web browser, presentation, document and spreadsheet software, instant messaging and much more.

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InsiderPages - What's being said about your library?

This story comes from Basha.

A patron pointed out to her that there were reviews of her library online -- well turns out there's lots of reviews of Oklahoma libraries.
Look at some of these:

• Tulsa
• Oklahoma City
• Norman
• Lawton
• Okmulgee
• Ponca City

Why don't you check to see if your library is reviewed?

Job Posting | Norman

The Board of Trustees of the Pioneer Library System is seeking qualified candidates for its Chief Executive Officer.

System Director is responsible for total operation of the library system following its policies and directives, provides leadership and vision in carrying out the system’s mission, directs the Strategic Planning process, and oversees the financial management of the library system whose budget was $7 million in 2007. The System Director reports directly to the Board of Trustees, who place a strong emphasis on outstanding customer service.

Beginning salary is $85,000 - $100,000, based on experience and qualifications

Director’s position is open through March 15, 2007. Letters of intent and resumes, complete with references, will be accepted through March 15, 2007.

Apply to Vickie White-Rankin, c/o Personnel Offices, Pioneer Library System,
225 N. Webster, Norman, OK., 73069.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

1. Education and/or experience:

a. Master’s degree in Library and Information Science from a graduate school accredited by the American Library Association.
b. Ten years professional library work.
c. Five years administrative experience.

2. Knowledge of:

a. Established procedures and practices pertaining to the operation of a public library system.
b. Public finance, personnel management, organization theory and delivery systems.
c. Current principles and practices of library and information science, administration and management theory.

Ability to:

a. Guide a library system through a period of technological, social and economic change.
b. Think strategically, make professional decisions and provide leadership.
c. Be flexible and receptive to new ideas, relate abstract ideas to actual situations.
d. Develop and maintain effective working relationships with staff, library trustees, government officials and leaders of civic, educational and library organizations.

The Pioneer Library System is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer; Minorities and Women are encouraged to apply.