Enjoy these and be inspired, share, and incorporate them!
Showing posts with label general interest. Show all posts
Showing posts with label general interest. Show all posts
Tuesday, November 14, 2017
Another Round of Great K-12 Library Ideas!
The fun never stops with my current position! I have seen some more amazing things I'd like to share via the blog. These are also posted on my Twitter feed (@yabooksandmore) of great ideas I've seen in libraries I've visited.
If there is one thing we need bring into students' lives, it would be that they live in a world with people and events that make a difference for the better. This YA librarian promoted this through her awesome display (which can be used for a bulletin board too!)
This savvy elementary librarian went environmental on the library by re-using things teachers didn't need anymore into some amazing genre signs! Beautiful!!! Now, go hit up your teachers for old, unused globes! (And if you have extra, DM me and I'll take them) :)
Sometimes you don't need signs to capture attention. Try wallpapering the backs of the shelves for certain genres like this middle school librarian did with her graphic novels. Plus, it cost little to nothing to do it :) POW! Ka-BAM!
This elementary librarian decided to do something to showcase books AND gets students involved in the library. Taking those large envelopes (that have a tie or metal closure on the backs), she got her students to decorate them for the holidays. They couldn't open it until they checked them out. Use it for any holiday and promote student library collaboration :)
This junior high librarian created and used series lists of books and their order to create shelf markers under the series to help students track and find them easier. She and her library assistant did these on their own but you don't have to if you have a Follett Titlewave account. It contains a series tracker/finder, including have them in numerical order as well as when the newest one will be released. You've got to try it out :)
Enjoy these and be inspired, share, and incorporate them!
Enjoy these and be inspired, share, and incorporate them!
Monday, November 6, 2017
E-books: From Shelf to Student!
I was doing some PD with district librarians, and we were talking about collaboration between library and classroom. We know collaboration creates an environment that engages students and makes them the center of instruction. It can also be the perfect place to encourage e-book reading for academic and pleasure pursuits. Here are a few ways to begin to attract readers to the digital side of reading
1. Use excerpts and throw it up on a screen. E-books don't have to be independently read from a single device. Try using features on the device to highlight part of the e-book for students to read and discuss in small groups? It also allows students who don't have their device not to be able to read along with the classroom. Reading time can be taken to a whole other level, especially when reading picture books. Show them the cover of the book while you introduce it, which can help encourage curiosity about e-books and (hopefully!) checkouts!
via GIPHY
2. Buy an e-book version of popular books. We all know those students who wait and wait.....and then wait some more for a popular book to come in. The problem is, that sometimes those popular books always come in late, or even never at all. If a title is that popular, why not buy an extra copy in digital format? Not only will it NEVER get lost, but it could also be the gateway for those who want it so badly they'll take the digital copy to become e-book readers! Bonus? You get more shelf space to add other titles than duplicates!
3. Create a brochure/poster with QR codes for them to open quickly. If you're a school library, you may have a circulation system that delivers e-book content to students. If so, why not make it easier for them to check out books by using QR codes for them to go directly to the system and the book. I think part of the frustration of reading e-books is actually getting to them. If you have the QR code ready, wah lahhhhh!! Easy as pie! One easy idea: Follett's Destiny Discover has Collections, where you can create a list of e-books and create a PDF you can print or share online that's super easy to create.
4. Do a book talk all with e-books. Nothing says I love to read more than booktalking all of the amazing books you want to share. Oftentimes, e-books are overlooked when booktalking so add a few to the mix and see what happens. What would be even more interesting would be to have the actual e-book open and read the first two paragraphs of the book while they track with you. That's a powerful hook!
5. Talk to students about the ease and benefits of e-books and the added tools to use with a reader. E-readers can go farther than just turning pages. Highlighting, annotations, key word searches and more are built into some e-readers, so never neglect the fact that e-books are great resources especially when doing research. It's all in one handy place ready for them when they need to start using their documentation.
And whatever you do, never ever stop promoting reading and remember there are ALL types of readers. What may feel uncomfortable to us may not to another reader, so keep your mind open. Time to crack a book cover...or click a virtual cover!!
Sunday, August 6, 2017
Five Important Things For the New School Year
Happy new school year!! The gears are starting to turn and school openings are around the corner. School campuses are caught up in a whirlwind of professional development, campus training, and many other things that will pull them from what they want to be doing - working in the library. If you only get one day to do this, here are some things to keep in mind and keep your mind from whirling.
1 Everyone has that to-do list for the beginning of the school year. There are some pretty important things on that list, but take a second look. What are some of those things you can wait on? Sometimes lists can be an overload and focusing on completing all of them isn't productive. Instead of the frenzy of getting things done, look over and think what should come first
via GIPHY
2. You can't do it all yourself (although we try!). Being a librarian is being part of a collaborative environment. Asking others for help and asking others to help are two very different but important activities we should do on a daily basis. Be it your admin team, campus departments or even people outside your library walls (other librarians, consultants, virtual PLN) make a call or write an email. It will make a difference.
via GIPHY
3. Learn a new tool this year. Try something you've never tried before and work it into your presentations and curriculum with students. There are a ton of great new tools out there from collaborative videos (Flipgrid) to curation (Follett Destiny Collections) to new Google tools (try Blocks) and so many more. Look at ways you can use them, but more importantly, how your campus can use them.
via GIPHY
4. The best libraries are one that are open and ready for anyone. Look at your spaces and start defining them. Creating a successful learning commons takes time, but with a little ingenuity, you can create one area that is different from what was there last year. A table, some interesting bins of low tech makerspace, a 3-D printer, whiteboard paint, signage can all help create a feeling that there's something new and different.
via GIPHY
5. Read. That's pretty simple, right? Well....in the world of librarianism, it's easier said than done.
Prfoessional needs of your own and others will play right into reading time. Educators and librarians know reading makes an impact (It's the "R" in STREAM) so make sure you have time to read and share that love and excitement. There's nothing like the feeling of changing even one student from a non-reader to a reader.
via GIPHY
1 Everyone has that to-do list for the beginning of the school year. There are some pretty important things on that list, but take a second look. What are some of those things you can wait on? Sometimes lists can be an overload and focusing on completing all of them isn't productive. Instead of the frenzy of getting things done, look over and think what should come first
via GIPHY
2. You can't do it all yourself (although we try!). Being a librarian is being part of a collaborative environment. Asking others for help and asking others to help are two very different but important activities we should do on a daily basis. Be it your admin team, campus departments or even people outside your library walls (other librarians, consultants, virtual PLN) make a call or write an email. It will make a difference.
via GIPHY
3. Learn a new tool this year. Try something you've never tried before and work it into your presentations and curriculum with students. There are a ton of great new tools out there from collaborative videos (Flipgrid) to curation (Follett Destiny Collections) to new Google tools (try Blocks) and so many more. Look at ways you can use them, but more importantly, how your campus can use them.
via GIPHY
4. The best libraries are one that are open and ready for anyone. Look at your spaces and start defining them. Creating a successful learning commons takes time, but with a little ingenuity, you can create one area that is different from what was there last year. A table, some interesting bins of low tech makerspace, a 3-D printer, whiteboard paint, signage can all help create a feeling that there's something new and different.
via GIPHY
5. Read. That's pretty simple, right? Well....in the world of librarianism, it's easier said than done.
Prfoessional needs of your own and others will play right into reading time. Educators and librarians know reading makes an impact (It's the "R" in STREAM) so make sure you have time to read and share that love and excitement. There's nothing like the feeling of changing even one student from a non-reader to a reader.
via GIPHY
Monday, January 2, 2017
New Year, New Reading Challenge! Are you Up for It?
There are a ton of reading challenges out there, but I decided to create one with tweens and teens in mind, as well as making the library and librarian, library associations, and people in their lives an integral part of it. Here's the infographic I made (with links) AND as a bonus, a link to a Google Doc, which you can print out and share :) And if you can't see the infographic on the blog, here's the link online
Happy New Year, Happy New Year's Reading!!!
Happy New Year, Happy New Year's Reading!!!
Wednesday, December 7, 2016
Observations of a Librarian in the 21st Century
Wow...can't believe we are already sixteen (nearly seventeen) years into the 21st century! Do you remember saying something in high school like, "When it's 2015 I'll be (fill in the blank) years old!" Education is changing to adapt, and so is the pedagogy. And it's all because society and culture impact teens today so much more differently than ever before. With that in mind, I came up with some things I believe a 21st century library should be aware of.
1. Teens are connected, and so are adults
via GIPHY
Walk down any hall of a high school and you'll see cell phones, laptops, tablets, and headphones galore! Make sure libraries are connected as well. This is now the standard norm, so libraries should not only be book driven, but device and peripheral driven too.
2. Learning is done more through video than ever before
via GIPHY
Youtube, TedTalks, MOOCs...watching and learning are more accepted than ever before. When most new web tools have intro videos, take advantage of it. Create screencasts to "teach" students. Being visible is now done in front a camera and libraries should put themselves in the spotlight.
3. Reading preferences guide people and libraries.
via GIPHY
Some like e-books, some like hardcopy. Paperbacks, hard copy, newspapers, magazines. Kindle, Nook, Overdrive, Follett, Netgalley, Edelweiss, and sites for fan fiction are diverse, but they have one thing in common - people who read use them for pleasure, and academic pursuits. And it make libraries re-think the concept of shelf space.
4. The virtual world is a lot larger than the physical one.
via GIPHY
We don't live in a world where teens get home, eat a snack and do their homework. It's now more like get home, eat something, binge watch Neflix, check Snapchat or Twitter, then do homework...at midnight...or later. Make sure the library can meet them there. Create an online presence ASAP!
5. Handwriting is old school. Keep that in mind when you're creating signage
via GIPHY
There are actually teens out there who only know how to write their name in cursive because of documents. Sigh.... And if that's the case, you know they can't read it. So make sure that if the library has displays, signage, or posters, that they use a font that to reach all users. Be cursive aware!
6. Social Media is the new telephone
via GIPHY
Personal landlines are passe. Teens today may not understand how a pay phone works, much less a party line. They communicate en masse with social media. And when they "talk" to each other it's through text. Calling someone? That's ancient! Leverage these for the library so teens can communicate their way, making the library easier to access.
7. There is significant relationship building happening online.
via GIPHY
Just when you thought you knew it all, catfishing for teens has taken on a completely new meaning. Relationships of all kinds begin online and then can become face-to-face. From using Remind for classes or Groupme for people with similar interests, there are ways libraries can create an online academic relationship with students.
8. Teens have an entrepreneurial spirit.
via GIPHY
Interesting fact: the founders of Facebook, Twitter and Snapchat's average age is TWENTY-TWO. Don't underestimate the genius of teens. They are changing our future. Heck they even created a new language adults had to learn - emoji, which began in the late 1990's and now has over 800 characters used in countless devices.
9. Teaching is not about lecture, but a participatory culture
via GIPHY
It's one thing to talk to teens, but it completely morphs when teens talk, create, and group together to learn. Make the library that place where teens are learning in all sorts of ways. If we are worried about their interaction with people because of their obsession with devices, participatory culture MUST happen.
10. Libraries should not just have books....they should have a whole lot more
via GIPHY
And I'm not talking about computers (although that would be nice!) Think about things that could be checked out to patrons that are out of the norm. How about gardening tools? Anyone love to bake? Crafters could always use knitting needs and crochet hooks. Sports equipment doesn't always have to belong in the gym and budding artists can save money by checking out brushes. JACKPOT!
1. Teens are connected, and so are adults
via GIPHY
Walk down any hall of a high school and you'll see cell phones, laptops, tablets, and headphones galore! Make sure libraries are connected as well. This is now the standard norm, so libraries should not only be book driven, but device and peripheral driven too.
2. Learning is done more through video than ever before
via GIPHY
Youtube, TedTalks, MOOCs...watching and learning are more accepted than ever before. When most new web tools have intro videos, take advantage of it. Create screencasts to "teach" students. Being visible is now done in front a camera and libraries should put themselves in the spotlight.
3. Reading preferences guide people and libraries.
via GIPHY
Some like e-books, some like hardcopy. Paperbacks, hard copy, newspapers, magazines. Kindle, Nook, Overdrive, Follett, Netgalley, Edelweiss, and sites for fan fiction are diverse, but they have one thing in common - people who read use them for pleasure, and academic pursuits. And it make libraries re-think the concept of shelf space.
4. The virtual world is a lot larger than the physical one.
via GIPHY
We don't live in a world where teens get home, eat a snack and do their homework. It's now more like get home, eat something, binge watch Neflix, check Snapchat or Twitter, then do homework...at midnight...or later. Make sure the library can meet them there. Create an online presence ASAP!
5. Handwriting is old school. Keep that in mind when you're creating signage
via GIPHY
There are actually teens out there who only know how to write their name in cursive because of documents. Sigh.... And if that's the case, you know they can't read it. So make sure that if the library has displays, signage, or posters, that they use a font that to reach all users. Be cursive aware!
6. Social Media is the new telephone
via GIPHY
Personal landlines are passe. Teens today may not understand how a pay phone works, much less a party line. They communicate en masse with social media. And when they "talk" to each other it's through text. Calling someone? That's ancient! Leverage these for the library so teens can communicate their way, making the library easier to access.
7. There is significant relationship building happening online.
via GIPHY
Just when you thought you knew it all, catfishing for teens has taken on a completely new meaning. Relationships of all kinds begin online and then can become face-to-face. From using Remind for classes or Groupme for people with similar interests, there are ways libraries can create an online academic relationship with students.
8. Teens have an entrepreneurial spirit.
via GIPHY
Interesting fact: the founders of Facebook, Twitter and Snapchat's average age is TWENTY-TWO. Don't underestimate the genius of teens. They are changing our future. Heck they even created a new language adults had to learn - emoji, which began in the late 1990's and now has over 800 characters used in countless devices.
9. Teaching is not about lecture, but a participatory culture
via GIPHY
It's one thing to talk to teens, but it completely morphs when teens talk, create, and group together to learn. Make the library that place where teens are learning in all sorts of ways. If we are worried about their interaction with people because of their obsession with devices, participatory culture MUST happen.
10. Libraries should not just have books....they should have a whole lot more
via GIPHY
And I'm not talking about computers (although that would be nice!) Think about things that could be checked out to patrons that are out of the norm. How about gardening tools? Anyone love to bake? Crafters could always use knitting needs and crochet hooks. Sports equipment doesn't always have to belong in the gym and budding artists can save money by checking out brushes. JACKPOT!
Monday, August 15, 2016
That beginning of the school year post!
The week before school starts
And through the library,
We started getting ready
For the extraordinary.
Books were displayed
On the shelves here and there,
Waiting for readers
From here and elsewhere.
The students still had
A week to sleep late,
While librarians work hard
Not only the students
But also the teachers,
Were all given info
On things that were keepers.
Like sources and websites
And great info to know,
About books and collab’ing
Great things we can show.
Emails and posters
All ready to make,
To show off resources
For the campus to take.
And use for their projects
And digital work,
The library is here
Like Spock is to Kirk.
Not only does reading
Take place in here often,
But makerspace, gaming
And Lunches, and talkin’.
The library has changed
Through the years can’t you see,
From quiet hush zones
To chill places to be.
The collection has more
Than just books to check out,
But all sorts of things
For all users to scout.
From movies to audio
Kids books and much more,
All for the taking
On the fab library floor.
So with only five days
To get ready to open,
How bangin', how awesome
Let's bring lots of hope in!
Friday, May 20, 2016
10 Things Librarians Should Do Before School is Out
It's the final countdown! Another school year in the books (well, nearly...). Why does it seem like the beginning and end of the year are the most frantic times? 100 million things to do, and not enough time. Here are ten things that can help you prioritize before you go out the doors and into summertime!!
1. Advertise your library social media accounts. That way people can follow you or at least contact you if they need to. Today's new library doesn't ever close, even during summer. If you keep your social media accounts active, you'll have no problem helping people who may need it from a book recommendation or how to access a database.
2. Summer and reading go together like ice cream and a spoon. Get out information on how to “check out” books for the summer. Required reading or pleasure reading? Let staff and students know how to access the campus library e-books. Flyers, online or physical posters, email, social media, websites...whatever it takes, let people know they have access to the virtual library
1. Advertise your library social media accounts. That way people can follow you or at least contact you if they need to. Today's new library doesn't ever close, even during summer. If you keep your social media accounts active, you'll have no problem helping people who may need it from a book recommendation or how to access a database.
Twitter GIF - Find & Share on GIPHY
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2. Summer and reading go together like ice cream and a spoon. Get out information on how to “check out” books for the summer. Required reading or pleasure reading? Let staff and students know how to access the campus library e-books. Flyers, online or physical posters, email, social media, websites...whatever it takes, let people know they have access to the virtual library
3. We can never escape from it....professional development. We all need it, we all have to have it. So make sure you go for the best. Start looking at your favorite sites and places you know will have top-notch PD, including webinars. (and if you're in Texas, come to our NTX Libcamp! http://ntxlibcamp.weebly.com/ )Reading GIF - Find & Share on GIPHY
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4. Take your computer (or device you work with the most) home with you. It’ll save you gas money and headaches. I've often said, "Oh, I'll pick it up on the way..." famous last words! Make sure you can get to it quick. And if it's a desktop, welllllll...Boxing GIF - Find & Share on GIPHY
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5. Write down those usernames and passwords. Yes, for your databases but also for ALL THE OTHER things you'll need to remember. Summertime seems to zap memories, especially to whatever you have in the library that needs one (this also includes combination locks too). Don't put yourself in the position of adding to your first week of school frenzy by forgetting them!Internet GIF - Find & Share on GIPHY
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6. Share your knowledge! It never hurts to have a presentation or two ready for those just in case moments when you may get a message asking if you can present to new teachers/other staff or be a part of summer professional development. And if not, then start creating a kickin' library orientation for the new kids coming to campus in the fall!Sad GIF - Find & Share on GIPHY
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7. Get a copy of next year’s calendar now. Find out when new teachers are coming in, when school actually starts for students, and when each six weeks starts. And you know you're going to get well-prepared teachers who want to reserve the library for next year.Challenge GIF - Find & Share on GIPHY
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8. Make of list of your TBR (to be read) and let that be your summer goal. Or at least 3 of the best books on it (decisions decisions!)Thumbs Up GIF - Find & Share on GIPHY
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9. Meet with local public librarians and see how both of you can collaborate on programs for the summer and possibly for the next school year. Nothing feels better than connecting with your community!Book GIF - Find & Share on GIPHY
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10. Make a list of your favorite librarifriends you’d love to spend the weekend with, find an Airbnb on a beach somewhere and send out those e-vites! And if that doesn't pan out, tell them you'll see them at conference for a night out!Superman GIF - Find & Share on GIPHY
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Monday, May 2, 2016
Make Your Library Sizzle, Not Fizzle
Awhile ago, I was on Twitter and tweeted:
I usually put out about two tweets a day (unless you catch me in a Twitterchat) and that day, my phone was dinging with notifications. Looks like this resonated not only with librarians but educators and administrators as well. And so, it got me thinking....what are some other things that we, as librarians, could tweak just a little, to make a HUGE impact? Here is my top five list of
habit-breakers for librarians.
1. Evaluate your signage. Our signage is used to direct, help, and inform but most all, it's put up to capture the attention of our library users. But is the attention they're getting positive or negative? Students see enough negative signs telling them not to do this, or don't do that. Librarians shouldn't fall into that quagmire of "no"s and "nay"s. We need to rise above it and create signage that makes people at the most, smile and at the least, pay attention without frowning. With space being a premium in libraries, use it to make our students and users want to obey the signs, not rally against them.
5. Do something impactful with everything you do in the library. If you read, do so with a goal in mind of what you're going to do with all of those great reads. If you're online looking at sites, think about how you'll incorporate that into a lesson or with students. Start creating curated lists of EVERYTHING to whip out when the time is right! When you're making purchases consider the impact they will have on the library and the patrons you serve. Don't just be a librarian, BE a librarian! There is a difference.
Librarians,create 2 habits— Naomi Bates (@yabooksandmore) March 29, 2016
1.step out from behind your desk
2.make eye contact
People are more important than a desk/screen #tlchat #txlchat
I usually put out about two tweets a day (unless you catch me in a Twitterchat) and that day, my phone was dinging with notifications. Looks like this resonated not only with librarians but educators and administrators as well. And so, it got me thinking....what are some other things that we, as librarians, could tweak just a little, to make a HUGE impact? Here is my top five list of
habit-breakers for librarians.
1. Evaluate your signage. Our signage is used to direct, help, and inform but most all, it's put up to capture the attention of our library users. But is the attention they're getting positive or negative? Students see enough negative signs telling them not to do this, or don't do that. Librarians shouldn't fall into that quagmire of "no"s and "nay"s. We need to rise above it and create signage that makes people at the most, smile and at the least, pay attention without frowning. With space being a premium in libraries, use it to make our students and users want to obey the signs, not rally against them.
2. Share and share...and keep sharing. It's difficult to admit the truth, but I'm going to do it...I'm a hoarder. If I have one cute notepad, I have a hundred. And I don't use them because they're too cute and I'll find something to do with it later. Then five years from now, it'll still be there unused and perfectly archived. That's okay with paper but it ISN'T okay with technology. What happens if someone breaks it? What happens if it's never returned? This cost a lot of money. Librarians can become Gollums with technology and over time, it's hard to keep up with all of my preciouses. And then the unthinkable happens - the precious becomes obsolete! So don't hold back on what we've purchased because innately, we purchased them to be used. Have parameters, but along with that, have faith in your campus and patrons.Reaction GIF - Find & Share on GIPHY
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3. Look at the role you play. What does the word librarian mean to you? What does a librarian say or do? If you were walking into a library, what would you like to see in a librarian? Who are you describing? If you see yourself in the description of a good librarian, that's good. I believe have traits of a good librarian, but I know I don't possess every single one of them. Oh,to please the masses! So tweak what needs to be tweaked and flaunt what you got! And always know you're like (fill in the blank with all SORTS of similes that could work from wine to technology, to a new sweater et al!)...with time it just keeps getting better.Neat GIF - Find & Share on GIPHY
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4. Focus on those other non-librarian things. It's the small things they don't teach in library school that could have tremendous impact. Can anyone say feng shui? Nothing feels as good as stepping into a library that's pleasant to be in. Be intentional in placement. Be aware of smells (for real!!). Look at patterns and use them to your advantage. Everyone has a creative side! Try something new, like convo bubbles in book displays or using tabletops for makerspaces (and sit at these for awhile and see what happens!). Oh, I know there are those out there shaking their heads, thinking they don't have a creative side. That's okay. One word to cure that remedy: Pinterest!CBC GIF - Find & Share on GIPHY
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5. Do something impactful with everything you do in the library. If you read, do so with a goal in mind of what you're going to do with all of those great reads. If you're online looking at sites, think about how you'll incorporate that into a lesson or with students. Start creating curated lists of EVERYTHING to whip out when the time is right! When you're making purchases consider the impact they will have on the library and the patrons you serve. Don't just be a librarian, BE a librarian! There is a difference.
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Wednesday, March 23, 2016
Ten Things About School Librarians :)
1. We aren’t always reading. We do have a social life.
How we conduct ourselves professionally isn’t always how we conduct ourselves personally, and don’t EVEN start stereotyping that right now! Nor do we catalog everything in our pantries, chest of drawers, or our mailbox. We go out, have fun, socialize outside of our library circles, and have some of the most amazing hobbies ever!!
2. We enjoy answering questions. Even if it's the most obscure questions, we’ll find a way to get to the bottom of it. Want to make a librarian giddy? Ask us a hundred questions! But we may not know everything and yes, there will be times when we will Google what we need to know (gasp!)True GIF - Find & Share on GIPHY
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3. Silence isn’t our closest friend Believe it or not, libraries have areas where people can actually talk and work together. And no, we don’t mind it. Learning involves conversations, so the shushing has slowed its roll.Digg GIF - Find & Share on GIPHY
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4. Please don’t call us the book Nazi, the video Nazi…in fact, just leave that word out of anything that has to do with libraries! We actually enjoy sharing and bending rules a littleComic Con GIF - Find & Share on GIPHY
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5. We work in a library, a libratory, a makerspace, a learning commons space, and a safe haven. So that makes us librarians, libraritorians, makerspace-ites, learning commonistas, and a safe haven.Television GIF - Find & Share on GIPHY
Discover & Share this Television GIF with everyone you know. GIPHY is how you search, share, discover, and create GIFs.
6. We don’t like to be the lone wolf. In fact, we thrive better when we are working and collaborating with someone rather than winging it alone. We may be the only librarian on campus, but don’t put Baby in the corner!Rasalo GIF - Find & Share on GIPHY
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7. We want everyone to know the truth! Especially about the internet! Knowing how to distinguish between what’s fact and what’s fiction is important to know! Databases are only part of it…we can show you the bigger picture! I promise, I’m not shouting, I’m just enthusiastic!Patrick Swayze GIF - Find & Share on GIPHY
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8. We are flexible. Not only can we walk into an English classroom with the confidence of a superhero, but we can do the same in a science, history or math classroom as well. And that doesn’t even include all the other subjects, which we can handle hands down. Now, THAT’S flexible!Aladdin GIF - Find & Share on GIPHY
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9. Librarians aren’t just about books anymore. We love..nay, we crave technology! We try to stay up with the latest trends, resources and implementation of technology to make sure you have the newest and best information out there. The hum of a computer hard drive accompanied by the tapping of fingers on touch screens are music to our ears!Gymnastics GIF - Find & Share on GIPHY
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10. We are networking fools! Not only do we love to collaborate, we also love to learn and share too! Doesn’t matter…if you get two or more librarians in a room together, it’s the beginning of an audacious networking party!Technology GIF - Find & Share on GIPHY
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Dancing GIF - Find & Share on GIPHY
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Friday, December 11, 2015
Bookface NHS Style
I did this project a couple of years ago and decided it's once again time to do bookfaces with newer titles. So here they are (most of the are new..some are just classics)!
Thursday, November 12, 2015
Perfect Websites for Booklovers and The Geek Tribe!
We live it. We love it. We are passionate about it. And just what exactly is "it?" The library, of course! But it's beyond that. Beyond books, beyond technology, beyond the due date stamp. When it comes to librarians and their passions, let's just say we can be a tough crowd to buy gifts for. But FEAR NOT! Here is a list of 10 websites YOU can use (or tell someone who needs to know this!) to warm the heart of the most curmedgeonly, geekiest, book nerdiest, and alphabetically obsessed librarians out there!:
1. Mental Floss: http://store.mentalfloss.com/new-arrivals/
Not only does it have some pretty cool t-shirts, but some very unusual books which can't be found on booklists librarians use.
2. Klear Gear: http://www.kleargear.com/
You can get a better clue about what type of person a librarian is just by looking at their desk. Why not splurge on some very unique desk and office decor. There are tons of other geek things we'd all love to show off our love for all things nerdy!
3. Paddywax: http://www.paddywax.com/Shop/Library
It isn't enough we want to work in a library, but we love the smell too! Nothing beats the smell of an old dead author and this website offers them all! Edgar Allan Poe? How about Jane Austen? My personal favorite is John Steinbeck. Who knew he could smell so amazing?!?
4. Cafe Press: http://www.cafepress.com/+library+clothing?utm_medium=cpc&utm_source=msn&utm_campaign=40356349&utm_content=357822031&utm_term=kwd-9644233571-bb-c
If you've never visited Cafe Press and looked through their extreme collection of clothing for library lovers, well now's your chance. Super librarian? Check. Library Humor? Check. Quotes? Check! Too many to choose from, and all what a librarian would love
5. Think Geek: http://www.thinkgeek.com/tshirts-apparel/jewelry/
This site is great for the guybrarian you know as well as the girlbrarian too! I chose this particular link because who else would carry a Death Star or Yoda charm to put on a Pandora bracelet? Yeah, and this is just tapping into the geek waiting for you when you open this puppy up!
6. Demeter Fragrance: http://demeterfragrance.com/paperback.html# (or try Amazon)
What exactly does an old paperback smell like? Should we even go there? Well, fear not! For those who love the smell (not moldy book, no no!!) then go ahead a splurge! You too, can smell like an old paperback book!!
7. Gone Reading: http://gonereading.com/group/book-shaped-plates-platters/
Some of us have said we eat, drink, and breathe books. Well, here's a site that could help your gastronomic endeavors. Just put food on these book plates and let the eating begin! (check the clearance link...they're on sale!)
8. Out of Print: http://www.outofprintclothing.com/collections/womens-tees
Cool tees for ALL librarians! From picture books to classics and other things, these are by far the best looking tees of the bunch! They have some pretty cool coasters too, of all things sacred to libraries!
9. Zazzle. http://www.zazzle.com/librarian+mugs
This collection happens to be mugs. Why a hot beverage, you ask? Because nothing says I love books more than a hot cuppa and a good book. NOTHING.... And for those of us who can't quite grasp drinking and books because of spillage, they have travel mugs with lids too.
10. American Library Association Store: http://www.alastore.ala.org/SearchResult.aspx?CategoryID=164&gclid=Cj0KEQiAjpGyBRDgrtLqzbHayb8BEiQANZauh4dUi5SXlBNNDldnxqdW-Zt0Ys4yxFFJna67kW5NqksaAnHh8P8HAQ
You call yourself a librarian? Yeah, well you're not a true librarian (or someone related to a true librarian) if you didn't put this store on the list!
Happy Holidays Everyone! Let the e-shopping BEGIN!! *and if you happen to need my address for shipping purposes, just shoot me an email :)
image link: https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/f/f0/NUC_Christmas_Tree_S_Calhoun.jpg
1. Mental Floss: http://store.mentalfloss.com/new-arrivals/
Not only does it have some pretty cool t-shirts, but some very unusual books which can't be found on booklists librarians use.
2. Klear Gear: http://www.kleargear.com/
You can get a better clue about what type of person a librarian is just by looking at their desk. Why not splurge on some very unique desk and office decor. There are tons of other geek things we'd all love to show off our love for all things nerdy!
3. Paddywax: http://www.paddywax.com/Shop/Library
It isn't enough we want to work in a library, but we love the smell too! Nothing beats the smell of an old dead author and this website offers them all! Edgar Allan Poe? How about Jane Austen? My personal favorite is John Steinbeck. Who knew he could smell so amazing?!?
4. Cafe Press: http://www.cafepress.com/+library+clothing?utm_medium=cpc&utm_source=msn&utm_campaign=40356349&utm_content=357822031&utm_term=kwd-9644233571-bb-c
If you've never visited Cafe Press and looked through their extreme collection of clothing for library lovers, well now's your chance. Super librarian? Check. Library Humor? Check. Quotes? Check! Too many to choose from, and all what a librarian would love
5. Think Geek: http://www.thinkgeek.com/tshirts-apparel/jewelry/
This site is great for the guybrarian you know as well as the girlbrarian too! I chose this particular link because who else would carry a Death Star or Yoda charm to put on a Pandora bracelet? Yeah, and this is just tapping into the geek waiting for you when you open this puppy up!
6. Demeter Fragrance: http://demeterfragrance.com/paperback.html# (or try Amazon)
What exactly does an old paperback smell like? Should we even go there? Well, fear not! For those who love the smell (not moldy book, no no!!) then go ahead a splurge! You too, can smell like an old paperback book!!
7. Gone Reading: http://gonereading.com/group/book-shaped-plates-platters/
Some of us have said we eat, drink, and breathe books. Well, here's a site that could help your gastronomic endeavors. Just put food on these book plates and let the eating begin! (check the clearance link...they're on sale!)
8. Out of Print: http://www.outofprintclothing.com/collections/womens-tees
Cool tees for ALL librarians! From picture books to classics and other things, these are by far the best looking tees of the bunch! They have some pretty cool coasters too, of all things sacred to libraries!
9. Zazzle. http://www.zazzle.com/librarian+mugs
This collection happens to be mugs. Why a hot beverage, you ask? Because nothing says I love books more than a hot cuppa and a good book. NOTHING.... And for those of us who can't quite grasp drinking and books because of spillage, they have travel mugs with lids too.
10. American Library Association Store: http://www.alastore.ala.org/SearchResult.aspx?CategoryID=164&gclid=Cj0KEQiAjpGyBRDgrtLqzbHayb8BEiQANZauh4dUi5SXlBNNDldnxqdW-Zt0Ys4yxFFJna67kW5NqksaAnHh8P8HAQ
You call yourself a librarian? Yeah, well you're not a true librarian (or someone related to a true librarian) if you didn't put this store on the list!
Happy Holidays Everyone! Let the e-shopping BEGIN!! *and if you happen to need my address for shipping purposes, just shoot me an email :)
image link: https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/f/f0/NUC_Christmas_Tree_S_Calhoun.jpg
Monday, June 1, 2015
10 Ways Librarians Can Rage Against Conformity
"Do not go gentle into that good night...Rage, rage against the dying of the light."
Okay, maybe rage isn't the exact word I'd use for librarians. But the theme of this poem is exactly what I'd use for librarians. It's amazing how fast libraries and our profession has altered in the last 10 years. I remember having a card catalog still available in the school where I started my first job as librarian. (and no, it wasn't in the sixties or seventies either...more like the late 90's).
What Thomas is conveying in the poem is to never give up, never stop fighting the good fight, always move forward and onward despite difficult times. With this rushing tide of change we are part of, when it comes to libraries and our roles in them, this is a theme we must adopt. But it doesn't always mean you have to be on the frontline taking it all in at once.
Moving forward doesn't have a speed limit as long as it continues to go forward. Some librarians have moved quickly and embraced change while others are more tentative, waiting to see how things work, what is going to happen and then act on it. Collectively, we become that tide with change following in our wake.
Last night I was in an exceptional Twitter chat with Angela Maiers where the topic was "#youmatter. When was the last time someone said that to you? When was the last time you said that to someone? So, I'm here to say you DO matter! Not only do you matter, but what you do matters too. Librarians shouldn't be pigeon-holed to a stereotype that keeps perpetuating and the further our profession moves forward, the more we will be valued for what we are today. There should be no excuses, no reasons to not want to be professionally fierce.
And not wanting to change are the difficulties we must rage against, and they are our most powerful enemy. It's time to fight AGAINST dark days and be a part of the battalion who want better than what once was. It's about goals we can make and do our best to fulfill; making and committing to a change (small or large) to make yourself part of the fast-paced change our profession now demands.
Oh, I'm not saying anyone should spend their entire summer working, but we all know that educators take their work with them even when summer break is happening. Asking the "what if..." question and then pursuing it can make all the difference (and that's another poem by Frost for another day :)
Here are a few ideas:
1. Look at your procedures and tweak them to allow more fluidity. It's not about the "stuff" but about the positive relationships you can create.
2. Take a web tool you've never used before and teach yourself through Youtube videos, tutorials on the website, or by Googling how to use it. Make a goal to incorporate this into your library or teach it to a class.
3. Network. More than that, bring in a positive perspective and shy away from those who network and bring complaints. Even if you don't like something, find that one thing that made it good.
4. Read books. Lots and lots of books (or as many as you possibly can). Now take them and share them with your campus however you'd like.
5. Create an orientation presentation for students or new teachers. Delete the facts from the slides (because you're going to tell them) and adapt it to capture attention, not be read.
6. Attend a workshop and make it your goal to accomplish it during the school year, not one you just attended for summer credit.
7. Let someone or more than one know they matter and why.
8. Volunteer to be part of staff development. It can be a variety of ways from offering equipment, helping with information, presenting, creating ideas. The more involved you are, the more you'll be seen as part of the team.
9. Look at the library spaces and see what could be a possibility to accommodate students or classes. Think about everyone's needs, not just a specific audience. Kids aren't quiet by nature...how does this impact the library? How can it be changed?
10. Challenge yourself to be available. Not just behind the circulation desk or your office, but on the floor, in the halls, at events and functions.
Now let's make some waves!~~
Friday, April 24, 2015
Reasons Why You Shouldn't Join Twitter (the unlearning experience)
So, I would say I'm a pretty connected librarian, and I definitely will say my professional Twitter account has really taught me a lot. Not only have a learned SO MUCH, but it has also helped me connect with colleagues, authors, and libraries; be a voice for the librarian in a chat room full of teachers and administrators; and allows me to share my passions.
With that in mind, I'm dedicating this blog post to some of the best things I've tweeted, learned about, and connected with since January 2015. This is just a sampling and if you like the taste of this tech piece of chocolate, you really should think about joining in :)
What I've learned from others (Jan 2015-present):
Things I've Shared (Jan 2015-present:
My three favorite Twitter chats:
#readYAlit (of course!) It happens once a month and is all about young adult literature. Not just titles, but more meaty topics about YA lit. Topics like sexual violence in YA lit to revamped dystopia/author chat to unreliable characters in YA lit are discussed. And yes, there are tweet chat where it's all about readers'choice of excellent YA books too. It really helps me keep updated on new books and really helps with my ordering list!
#eduality happens every Monday night, and I wish that evening was free, but alas! I can't always join this one. But when I do, I LOVE IT. This is a no holds barred chat about education...the good, the bad and everything in between. The chats are also very thought provoking as well. Questions like, "If you could put something from today's world of ed in a time capsule to make sure in 100 yrs it is valued, what would it be?" The other tweets this anonymous Twitterer writes are hilariously true!
#txeduchat is on Sundays weekly and if nothing else, I love to be involved and to learn from teachers and administrators from around the state and the different ways districts in Texas are doing innovative things. There is nothing like "hometown" connections, and this chat, although not one specifically for librarians, is perfect for the teacher side of this librarian.
Lurking, tipping your toes in the water, or doing a freefall into Twitterdom...it's all good! Hope to see you on the flip side!
With that in mind, I'm dedicating this blog post to some of the best things I've tweeted, learned about, and connected with since January 2015. This is just a sampling and if you like the taste of this tech piece of chocolate, you really should think about joining in :)
What I've learned from others (Jan 2015-present):
Does anyone have access to Word 2010? It has built in citation/bib generators.#TXLchat
— dlmackinney (@dlmackinney) January 14, 2015
Tie the principal to a chair & make him/her read this on improving your next faculty meeting
http://t.co/tUC45F16Ze pic.twitter.com/ZdMOHP5sAq
— Blunt Educator (@BluntEducator) February 2, 2015
How to be a Presentation Ninja - the secret BONUS #SCASL15 preso yesterday!
http://t.co/pa7CBeAbV0
Thanks to all who dropped by!
— The Daring Librarian (@GwynethJones) March 13, 2015
@NancyJoLambert I love @Pocket I keep the great stuff I find on Twitter or the web to use at a later time #txlchat
— Becky Calzada (@becalzada) April 1, 2015
Things I've Shared (Jan 2015-present:
Infographic & article-a must read Code of Best Practices in Fair Use http://t.co/Sqfqs8vi2E #edchat #txeduchat #engchat #TXLchat #TL_Chat
— Naomi Bates (@yabooksandmore) January 3, 2015
MUST READ for all educators: Web Tools & Age Limits by @HCPSNC http://t.co/ZjogQXCIwT #tlchat #txlchat #edtech #edchat #engchat #nisdchat
— Naomi Bates (@yabooksandmore) February 19, 2015
Movie trailer site searched by genre, recent, popularity, studio et al! http://t.co/nbbQovU1z7
#tlchat #txlchat #elemchat #engchat #edchat
— Naomi Bates (@yabooksandmore) March 12, 2015
11 Reasons a Librarians Are Better Superheroes Than the Avengers: http://t.co/AHG1nGRaJp #txla15 #tlchat #txlchat #txeduchat #txed #edchat
— Naomi Bates (@yabooksandmore) April 17, 2015
My three favorite Twitter chats:
#readYAlit (of course!) It happens once a month and is all about young adult literature. Not just titles, but more meaty topics about YA lit. Topics like sexual violence in YA lit to revamped dystopia/author chat to unreliable characters in YA lit are discussed. And yes, there are tweet chat where it's all about readers'choice of excellent YA books too. It really helps me keep updated on new books and really helps with my ordering list!
#eduality happens every Monday night, and I wish that evening was free, but alas! I can't always join this one. But when I do, I LOVE IT. This is a no holds barred chat about education...the good, the bad and everything in between. The chats are also very thought provoking as well. Questions like, "If you could put something from today's world of ed in a time capsule to make sure in 100 yrs it is valued, what would it be?" The other tweets this anonymous Twitterer writes are hilariously true!
#txeduchat is on Sundays weekly and if nothing else, I love to be involved and to learn from teachers and administrators from around the state and the different ways districts in Texas are doing innovative things. There is nothing like "hometown" connections, and this chat, although not one specifically for librarians, is perfect for the teacher side of this librarian.
Lurking, tipping your toes in the water, or doing a freefall into Twitterdom...it's all good! Hope to see you on the flip side!
Friday, June 6, 2014
End of the Year: Report, Reflection, Renewal, and Resound
I'll admit, I'm already thinking of some things I'd like to accomplish next year. But I have to rein myself in and really think hard about what I did this year and how it worked out for me. Where to start?
Get a snapshot of the past year: it's easy now these days to click on a couple of buttons and whaa-la! Instant report! That's the beauty of circulation statistics. This year, try to go a little deeper. Think beyond those common statistics and build a snapshot worthy of the amazing things happening in your library. If you have social media attached to the library, go back and do a review of what you posted, what was video'ed, pictures taken...the whole thing. Use these as statistics of the wonderful job creating relationships has done for the library. Numbers are only that....there are no qualifiers of relationships in numbers. But pictures and videos? Comments on a post? Yep, that's gold! Quite by accident, I stumbled on the amount of books checked out by genre because of how I re-did the spine labels. It was quite interesting and something I can use for next year. Report on community and public library partnerships as well as those virtual PLNs you're involved with. Going beyond may take a little more work, but it's guaranteed to get someone's attention that numbers never will. Also snazz up your reports by changing the fo
rmat. Why not try a screencast? How about a Thinglink? Not only are you showing off your report, you're showing off your tech savviness as well.
Look at your goals for this year: did you accomplish at least 50% of the goals you set out for yourself? Remember, goals are NOT a to-do list, so doing all of them is not the idea behind it. Success is the moment when I know I've done something beyond what I expected while reaching a goal. What do I do with the others ones I didn't accomplish? I simply look at those and ask myself why I prioritized them/accomplished them in a certain way, see if they need to be modified, and either continue pursuing those goals or take them off the list. One thing I won't do is beat myself up over what I didn't do. We all have to look at it as a glass half full. I don't know about you, but I'm a list person too. My lists aren't my goals, more like things needing attention. But they can definitely play a role into my goals. They're more like small reflections to trigger other ideas. Not all of them are completed, but it makes me hyper-aware of some things needing to be done.
Go learn something new! I don't know what other states are like, but here in Texas, we are required to have 12 professional development hours each summer. That's two workshops, and to me, it's simply not enough! I think part of being a teacher librarian is learning, but we get the double whammy because we aren't only teacher librarians, but techbrarians and bookbrarians as well. Keep an open mind and eyes wide open because there are so many great PD out there to choose from! Go to a library conference like ALA to not only get your PD hours, but fulfill your book, technology and teaching all at once, but the books!!! Or try PD from a local or regional source. Whatever it is you attend, the most important thing to bring back is an idea you can implement. ONE idea will make a difference. Six hours of a workshop goes by in a blur, so get your focus on and choose one, two or three ideas and work them over in your mind during the summer. Trying to do it all never succeeds and can lead to overload quickly. Advocate for school libraries! "Not me!" you say? Hold on...yes you. Sometimes we think of advocacy as talking, standing in front of an audience extolling the virtues of the importance of libraries. Yes, there are some doing just that. But there are others who advocate just as strongly with a quiet presence. Librarians I love, know and admire make a difference on social media like Twitter by advocating with words and belonging to PLNs with administrator presence. Other librarians advocate through technology and make their webpages to be a visual advocacy piece hard to overlook. Still other librarians go online and faithfully blog about the wonderful books (e-books and otherwise) coming out as well as integrating them into reading lists for summer programming. You also have librarians who work well in a smaller setting and taking partnerships to another level.
What's the best thing about summertime? ICE CREAM!! Think of librarians as ice cream. There are all sorts of flavors out there, even the specialty ones (my favorite is pecan pie ice cream). And then come the toppings....Who would want to live in a world of only chocolate or vanilla ice cream? It takes different types of librarians advocating different ways. This build-up is what creates the power behind advocacy.
So, enjoy your summer! Read a book while your out there on a long trip. Take a device on an airplane, put on headphones and listen to audio books while watering the back yard. Even during the summer, a little bit of librarian always comes out along with the tan lines :)
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