Tuesday, November 27, 2012

E-book Frequently Asked Questions for Libraries

E-books are very popular right now and librarians worry about being able to keep up with the demand.  The issue is amplified by the fact that several large book publishers continue to deny libraries access to their e-books and others make e-books available under difficult terms. Since libraries need a way to organize and circulate their e-book collections, they have different concerns from the home e-book users.  As a result, many librarians are asking, “What can I do to advocate for fair e-book lending practices?”

To assist libraries in informing the public about e-book lending practices, the American Library Association (ALA) released today the “ALA E-book Media & Communications Toolkit,” a set of materials that will support librarians in taking action in their communities.  One of the tools in the toolkit is a frequently asked questions page that provides some basic information about the depth and scope of this problem. 

Developed by the ALA’s Digital Content and Libraries Working Group (DCWG), the toolkit provides resources for library supporters interested in informing the public of the role that libraries play in building literate and knowledgeable communities. Additionally, the toolkit provides guidance on ways to use the media templates, as well as ALA talking points, e-book data, and public service announcement scripts.

“The library community cannot sit by while publishers openly refuse to sell libraries the e-books that they need to serve their patrons,” said ALA President Maureen Sullivan, who recently led several library meetings with publishers. “Librarians and our allies must speak out more forcefully in communities across the country. Everyone needs to know that libraries offer e-books and 21st century library services, but we are unable to offer all the e-reading choices our patrons demand and deserve.”

The Digital Content & Libraries Working Group, a representative group made up of 27 ALA members from various types of libraries, advises the Association on issues related to libraries and digital content, and the provision of equitable access to digital content for all. The group has developed a number of other resources about e-books, including the report “Ebook Business Models for Public Libraries,” a digital rights management “Tip Sheet,” and an E-Content supplement to American Libraries magazine.

Upcoming at the LME Library in December 2012


 

Monday, November 19, 2012

LME Library to participate in the Holiday Homecoming Celebration December 1st


During Princeville’s Holiday Homecoming Celebration, the LME Library will kick off its Foods-4-Fines program.  From December 1 thru December 21st, you may bring in nonperishable foods items.  For each item donated, the library will forgive $1 of your fines.  Did you find a library item that’s been missing for months?  Bring it in and each item will only be a maximum of $5 in fines and eligible for Food-4-Fines amnesty!  Don’t have any fines?  No problem, we will still be happy to accept your donations!  All donations will go to the local food pantry to benefit those in need.  Note: Fines will not be removed from unreturned items or items returned damaged. 


Santa letters can also be dropped off at LME Library starting on December 1stSanta’s mailbox will be out with our other holiday decorations, and children may drop in their letters to Santa. Letters dropped off by December 17th with return addresses will be answered by Santa, so be sure to include them on your letters!

In addition, the LME Library will also have extended hours (3-6pm) during the late night shopping on December 1st.  At the LME Library, you can chase away the cold by sampling our treats, participating in a family craft, or just visiting with neighbors. The Friends of the Library will also be holding their annual raffle so be sure to stop by the LME Library!

Thursday, November 8, 2012

November at LME Library


The Biggest Loser Fall Season just ended at Lillie M. Evans Library.  We had 35 participants who lost a total of 200.3 pounds!  The average loss was 5.7 pounds or 2.6% during the 8-week program.  Our biggest loser was Tiffany D. who lost a whopping 11.5%.  of her total body weight—incredible!  Congratulations to all participants for working hard to shed those pounds and stay fit.  Watch for additional fitness events in 2013. 

Our Red Scarf Project is off to a good start.  So far we have collected 20 handmade scarves.  These scarves will be distributed by Foster Care 2 Success in February 2013.  Guidelines are available on the LME Library website http://lmelibrary.org and scarves will be collected through December 1st.  If you don’t know how to crochet but are willing to learn, there are 2 programs scheduled in November to help you master the art of single and double crochet.  Please join us on November 7 and Nov 14 and bring a “size H” crochet hook.  We will have work sessions from 2:30-3:30pm or 5-6pm both days, and we have yarn available to get you started.  If you already know how to crochet and want to help, you can join us too!

Our popular Glass Ornament program is scheduled November 12 at 6pm.  This program is for participants 13 years and older.  Please register by calling the library (385-4540) or by completing our online registration through our website.  Don’t forget to bring in a photograph—it’s needed to complete your ornament.

Thursday, November 15th is Illinois Family Reading Night 2012.  Join us at the LME Library from 6:15-7:45pm for the Amazing Reading Race.  Family teams will compete head to head in a read-around-town scavenger hunt.  All family members welcome.  Teams must include grade schoolers.  Prizes will be awarded!

Our Friends of the Library group now has a booksale corner in the library.  A selection of fiction, non-fiction, children’s, and non-print materials are available every day.  Everything is a free-will donation so no prices are marked.  Over the years, the Friends have supported the library by donating materials, furniture, equipment, and funds for children's programs. Books and materials can be donated all year long.

November is National Novel Writing Month, or NaNoWriMo, the world’s largest writing event.  Participants pledge to write 50,000 words in a month, starting from scratch and reaching “The End” by November 30th.  So how can you participate?  Go to http://nanowrimo.org/to register and for more information.  Peoria NaNoWriMo participants can also find local events and community members at http://nanowrimo.org/en/regions/usa-illinois-peoria.  NaNoWriMo is a great time to start that novel you've always meant to write!