National Library Week Haikus

In preparation for National Library Week (April 12-18), Oxford University Press's publicity team recently asked its staff to writeNiko Pfund about their library experience for use in a promotional campaign. “Think quick and snappy, fun, happy, or tragic,” the note encouraged. Casper GrathwohlNiko Pfund (r.), academic group’s publisher, and Casper Grathwohl (l.), reference group’s publisher, had been in the middle of a “mean haiku emailing session” when the note from publicity arrived, so their 5-7-5ing quickly turned to the topic of libraries.

Library Journal, 4/3/2009

Library Finds Copy of Schindler's List

Australian researchers sifting papers belonging to the author of "Schindler's List" discovered a yellowing roll of 801 men saved from the Holocaust by the German industrialist — the very copy the writer used to bring the story to the world's attention, a curator said Monday.
The 13-page document is a copy of one of Oskar Schindler's famed compilations of names that eventually included 1,100 men and women he saved by employing them in his factories in World War II Germany.

Spring Break Fun for Kids

There's something fun for kids to do at our locations every day during spring break. In addition to our regular storytimes and game nights, there are a number of special events scheduled.

Main Library (427-4310)

+ Online Gaming: April 13; 1 to 4 p.m.; ages 11-14
+ Kite Making: April 14; 2 to 3 p.m.; registration required
+ Board Game Day: April 15; all day
+ Beads Galore: April 16; 3 to 4 p.m.; registration required
+ Online Gaming: April 17; 1 to 4 p.m.; ages 11-14
Delaware Branch (463-0254)

+ Delaware Puppies: April 13; 6:30 p.m.
+ The Tale of Despereaux: April 16; 2 to 4 p.m.
North Albany Branch (463-1581)

+ Spring Break Craft: April 14, 15, 16, 17; all day; ages 6 & up

Click here for the April program guide..

GPO gets its own YouTube channel

"The U.S. Government Printing Office's (GPO) core mission, Keeping America Informed, dates to 1813 when Congress determined the need to make information regarding the work of the three branches of Government available to all Americans. This is the inherent function of Government which GPO carries out for Federal agencies on behalf of the public. GPO is the Federal Government's primary centralized resource for gathering, cataloging, producing, providing and preserving published information in
all its forms."

U.S. Government Printing Office: Sustainable Environmental Stewardship [Government Publishing Makes the Silver Screen of the YouTube Variety]

Thinkfinity @ your library features new online resource to help supporters advocate for libraries

Add It Up: Libraries Make the Difference in Youth Development and Education” is a new web-based resource that helps advocates make the case for libraries. The site contains talking points, statistics, and links to research that equip library advocates with information to speak articulately on behalf of the impact libraries have on school age children.

To learn more about the “Add it up” web site, visit Thinkfinity.org/@yourlibrary, a collection of resources featuring librarian specific content from ALA. Thinkfinity.org is the Verizon Foundation’s comprehensive program and online portal to 55,000 standards-based, grade-specific, K-12 lesson plans and other educational resources provided in partnership with many of the nation’s leading educational and literacy organizations. Content for Thinkfinity.org is provided through a partnership between the Verizon Foundation and 11 of the nation’s leading organizations in the fields of education and literacy.

Source: American Libraries Association

ticTocs (A Wondeful Free Service)

Publisher: University of Liverpool and the ticTOCs Consortium
Cost: free
Tested: March 18-23, 2009

ticTOCS is a splendid, state of the art version of the traditional current awareness services from RSS feeds of the Table of Contents pages of more than 14,400 scholarly journals. It takes the pain out of learning about the content of the most recent and even upcoming issues of journals. It has some lacuna in journal coverage in spite of its wide scope, and a few software shortcomings. Even in its infancy, this service helps greatly in centralizing, personalizing and filtering the flood of information. It saves a lot of time, and offers a lot of gratification to researchers free.

THE DARK SIDE

Tuesday, April 7
12 p.m. at Main Library

Attorney Bill Shapiro reviews The Dark Side: The Inside Story of How the War on Terror Turned into a War on American Ideals by Jane Mayer. The book examines both the controversial excesses of the war on terror and the home front struggle to circumvent legal obstacles to its prosecution.

Sponsored by the Friends of the APL. Light refreshments are always served. This event is free and open to the public.

Sunday Cinema Presents

BOYS TOWN - Sunday, April 5, 2 p.m. at Main Library

Spencer Tracy won an Academy Award for his stern, compassionate performance as Father Flanagan, an idealistic priest hoping to give tough, young city boys a chance. Mickey Rooney is Father Flanagan's most incorrigible youth who gets into a bad scrape that threatens the future of Boys Town. The movie is not rated. (94 minutes; 1938)

Sunday Cinema is free and open to the public.

New York State Assembly Committee on Libraries and Education Technology

From NYLINE:

Among several dozen New York State Assembly committees is the Committee on Libraries and Education Technology. Recent press releases and reports from the committee are available on the Internet.

Hearing transcripts and reports from the Committee on Libraries have also been collected in the New York State Library's digital document management system. For example, the Annual Reports from the committee from 1997-2008 can found along with hearing transcripts from 1997.

Business and Economics Online Plus

Per Hill Library

If you're seeking subject guides for online resources on topics such as banking, business ethics, marketing research, or technology trends (plus many more), check out Business and Economics Online Plus (BEOnline+) from the Library of Congress.

Business and Economics Online, or BEOnline, was created to identify Internet resources of interest to the practice of entrepreneurship, small business, and economics. In 2000, BEOnline became BEOnline+ to reflect its expanded coverage to include topics in the social sciences and humanities.

Each subject guide contains a list of relevant resources with titles, links, and publisher information. In addition to subject guides, BEOnline+ also offers a title guide at http://www.loc.gov/rr/business/beonline/beosites.php.

Microsoft Shuts Encarta, Wikipedia Gives up on Wikia Search

No joke.

Chris Keall | Wednesday April 1 2009 - 09:31am

The National Business Review

Microsoft will close the book on its online encyclopaedia on October 31. Wikipedia bares some of the blame, but has its own problems.

During the 1990s, Microsoft's Encarta encyclopaedia, using content licensed from little-known Funk & Wagnalls, shook up the print industry.

The Encyclopaedia Britannica struggled against Microsoft's upstart, which was delivered on CD-ROM with many new consumer PCs.

But the new decade saw Encarta move online, but on the web it has been overwhelmed by the community-generated Wikipedia, which has millions of articles to Encarta's 50,000.



But Wikipedia is not having things all its own way. Today, the sites founder, Jimmy Wales, announced that is spin-off crowd-sourcing search engine, Wikia Search, will be shut down.

-----------------------
March 31, 2009
Microsoft accepts defeat to Wikipedia and kills off Encarta
Murad Ahmed, Technology Reporter
Times[of London]

Microsoft has announced it will kill off Encarta, its encyclopaedia software and website, later this year, which has crumbled in the face of competition from Wikipedia, the leading encyclopaedia on the web.

After nearly 15 years since it arrived on shelves, Microsoft announced on its website that Encarta will stop being available by the end of the year in most places worldwide.



The move is a tacit acceptance that Microsoft could no longer compete with the overwhelming popularity of Wikipedia, the free online website that launched in 2001. In January, Wikipedia got 97 per cent of the visits that web users in the US made to online encyclopaedias, according to Hitwise, the internet tracking company. Encarta trailed in second, with 1.27 per cent.

-----------------------

The complete articles may be read at the URLs provided for each.

Senator Introduces Bill That Would Allow American Newspapers to Operate as Non-Profits

U.S. Senator Benjamin L. Cardin (D-MD) introduced legislation that would allow newspapers to become non-profit organizations in an effort to help the faltering industry survive.

In recent months, the Seattle Post-Intelligencer, the Rocky Mountain News, the Baltimore Examiner and the San Francisco Chronicle, among others, have either ceased daily publication or announced that they may have to stop publishing. A number of other publications, including newspapers owned by the Tribune Company, owners of The Baltimore Sun, have filed for bankruptcy or have had to institute severe cutbacks that have impacted news coverage.

The Newspaper Revitalization Act would allow newspapers to operate as non-profits, if they choose, under 501(c)(3) status for educational purposes, similar to public broadcasting. Under this arrangement, newspapers would not be allowed to make political endorsements, but would be allowed to freely report on all issues, including political campaigns. Advertising and subscription revenue would be tax exempt and contributions to support coverage or operations could be tax deductible.

The measure is targeted to preserve local newspapers serving communities and not large newspaper conglomerates. Because newspaper profits have been falling in recent years, no substantial loss of federal revenue is expected.

Delaying Gratification

Evidence shows that people may be biased towards seeking short-term rewards at the expense of greater long-term benefits. Several factors influence how biased people are likely to be towards the present. Understanding these could inform policies that encourage individuals to make important life choices that affect their own long-term interests.

Streaming For Free: Introducing Documentaries on Hulu

Click through to Hulu’s Movies section and you may notice a new addition to the grey menu bar near the top: a new link to Documentaries. In this new section on Hulu, you’ll find some of our most popular documentary films and shorts alongside a whole slew of new additions.

Yet another article on libraries during these times

One from the NY Times makes for more interesting reading.

Quote from a women who took out a library card for herself for the first time in years (and also her first time in the library for years) and once she taken out her items "instinctively reached for her wallet to pay". "I guess it will take an adjustment period until I realize that some of the best things in life are indeed free," she said.

URL is

More Twitter help

Here.

Libraries for the Future, National Non-Profit, Closing After 17 Years

LFF Leaves Working Programs, Innovative Approaches in Hundreds of Libraries

NEW YORK, NY—March 18, 2009— After nearly two decades of leadership sparking innovation and investment in the nation's public libraries, the national non-profit organization Libraries for the Future (LFF) has announced that it has ceased operations.

“We have accomplished so many of our initial goals to re-establish the role of libraries at the center of our communities,” said LFF Executive Director Bruce Astrein. “There is more work to be done and it is unfortunate that the current economic climate has made it impossible for us to continue. That is especially true now, as we’ve been hearing from many libraries that the economic downtown has increased demand for library services just as it is squeezing library funding. We are hopeful that public libraries can draw upon LFF’s legacy of programs and resources to mobilize community support for their critical services.”

LFF was founded in 1992 during a time of deep funding cuts to champion libraries at the national level and to help individual libraries become leaders in technology, community development, cultural vitality and democratic participation. Built upon the vision of writer and activist Harriet Barlow and a small group of library advocates, LFF was the first national citizen-advocacy group to uphold the free, public library as a vast potential resource in our midst. In subsequent years, LFF helped libraries navigate the transition to the digital age, build community partnerships, and expand their services to patrons across the lifespan under the leadership of Diantha Dow Schull, a member of the organization’s initial planning team and LFF’s executive director until her retirement in December 2008.

In addition to continuing its founding advocacy work, LFF hosted forums connecting experts across disciplines, published influential reports on library use and potential (including Long Overdue), and developed and oversaw programs that have run in close to 400 libraries in 33 states—most of which will continue to run. LFF programs help libraries address a wide array of issues including early childhood literacy (Family Place Libraries), physical and brain health across the lifespan (Fit for Life), the desire of active older adults for meaningful work and community connections (Lifelong Access Libraries), and the urgent need for free, reliable consumer health information (Health Access Libraries). In addition, LFF is proud of statewide networks of libraries trained in its “EqualAccess” approach, strengthening the role of libraries as vibrant community centers.

Through LFF, the nation’s libraries have benefitted from the support and vision of close to 100 funders, including major support from the Atlantic Philanthropies, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, the Bush Clinton Katrina Fund, the HKH Foundation, W.K. Kellogg Foundation, the Jacob and Valeria Langeloth Foundation, Metropolitan Life Foundation, the Petersmeyer Family Foundation, and the Pritzker Early Childhood Foundation. We are also grateful to partners such as the Middle Country Public Library, which will continue to oversee Family Place Libraries.

On behalf of our past and current national board and council members,” said Jeffrey S. Scherer, Chair of the LFF Board of Directors, “we want to express our sincere gratitude to the staff, consultants and funders who have ensured that meaningful and important services and programs were delivered to the libraries of the United States. Without their resources, dedication and intelligence, LFF's mission could not have been accomplished."

Cong. John Conyers to Speak in Albany on Sunday March 29th on Single Payer Health Care for All

Faith Groups to Speak to the Moral Right to Health Care *

*Albany, NY- Congressman John Conyers will be in Albany for a Congressional Town Hall Meeting on Sunday, March 29th from 2-4:30 pm at Westminster Presbyterian Church, 262 State Street in Albany (1/2 block west of State Capitol). *

The Town Hall Meeting, sponsored by the Albany Presbytery, is one of ten nationwide meetings funded by the Presbyterian Church USA to open discussion of Single Payer Health Care for the United States. A major focus of the event will be the moral right of all Americans to have health care. Faith representatives will participate in a panel discussion, including Chandlee Gill of the Albany Presbytery, Dr. Richard Propp of the B’nai Sholom Reform Congregation (Albany) and Yussouf Mir of the Islamic Center of the Capital District. A representative of the Methodist Church will also speak.

Congressman Conyers is the lead sponsor of HR 676, the US National Health Care Act, Single Payer Medicare for All bill in Congress. The bill, which would replace private health insurance with a single public financing system to provide comprehensive coverage for everyone in the nation, has the most support of any universal health care proposal now in Congress. It also is the plan that is most favored by the American public, doctors, nurses and researchers. Congressman Conyers participated in the recent White House Forum on Health Care to advocate for Single Payer Health Care.

Single payer legislation is also pending in both houses of the NYS Legislature and a state study on various universal health care options is due shortly after the budget is released.

Congressman Paul Tonko, a co-sponsor of HR 676 also will participate in the Town Hall Meeting. Governor Paterson, Senators Schumer and Gillibrand, and Representative Hinchey also have been invited.

Dr. Andy Coates of the Physicians for a National Health Program (PNHP) Capital District Chapter will answer some of the basic questions regarding single payer health care.

Co Sponsors of the event include: Albany Presbytery, Capital Area Council of Churches, Interdenominational Ministers Conference, Fifth Avenue AME Zion Church of Troy, Labor Religion Coalition of NY State, Single Payer New York, Capital District Area Labor Federation, Capital DistrictAlliance for Universal Health Care, Solidarity Committee of Program (PNHP) Capital District Chapter, Albany Medical College Student PNHP Chapter,Hunger Action Network of NYS and Faith and Hunger Network

For More Information: Rev. Cass Shaw, 518 273-4991
Mark Dunlea, Single Payer NY, 518 434-7371 xt 1#

Underground Railroad residence clean up

This coming April 4th, there will be a work day at the Stephen and Harriet Myers Residence at 194 Livingston Avenue in Albany. There are some fallen tree lims in the rear yard that need to be cut up and tidily arranged or disposal.

There will also be clean up at 190 Livingston Avenue that was once the home of Abram Johnson, the father of John Johnson and Harriet Johnson. John Johnson built 194 Livingston. Harriet Johnson married Stephen Myers in 1827. This would be a good opportunity to celebrate some important history and contribute to its preservation.
***
Also: Our Jazz Benefit fundraiser is finally set!
Blue Coda Jazz Ensemble with Danny Mixon will play on April 26, 2009 from 4 pm to 8 pm at the ballroom of the Clarion Hotel at 3 Watervliet Avenue Extension in Albany. Light Fare, Cash Bar, Silent Auction. Tickets $40 in advance and $45 at the door. For more information call 436-0562 or 331-5607. This will be a sizzling event so come and bring friends! Tickets can also be purchased off the UGRR web site.

ALA files comments to FCC on rural broadband strategy

From the ALA Washington Office

On March 25, the ALA Washington Office filed comments to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) in response to the commission’s request for comments on a rural broadband strategy.
This opportunity gave ALA a platform to communicate how libraries can play a pivotal role in helping rural areas achieve the connectivity levels needed for tangible economic, educational and social growth.
The ALA’s filing outlined the following four recommendations:
·Develop and support the library’s role as the information hub
in rural communities
·Recognize public libraries as an essential source of lifelong
learning opportunities in rural communities
·The FCC should encourage the deployment of fiber to public
libraries
·Simplify the E-rate process
Additionally, ALA explained that the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) of 2009 provides the funding for the initial investment of build-out of broadband infrastructure. Existing federal programs, such as the E-rate program, assist with the day-to-day sustainability of that investment. Both of these tools are necessary to create the advanced broadband network envisioned by the ARRA’s authors.

Vera and the Ambassador: Escape and Return

The Rockefeller Institute of Government invites you to a Public Policy Forum Friday, April 3rd:

Vera and the Ambassador: Escape and Return, published by SUNY Press
A Book Forum with Authors Vera and Donald Blinken

Donald Blinken is the former U.S. Ambassador to Hungary and a former SUNY Board of Trustees chairman

The program will begin at 10:30 a.m. and ends at 12:00 p.m.

The forum will be held at The Nelson A. Rockefeller Institute of Government, 411 State Street, Albany, New York 12203.

RSVPs are required. Please RSVP as soon as possible to: (518) 443-5258 or charbonm@rockinst.org.

Public Libraries and Department of Labor Employment Centers

New York's unemployment numbers now show that 762,600 workers statewide are unemployed. Because of the tremendous need for assistance with employment and retraining information and assistance, the NYS Department of Labor (DOL) is interested in placing some DOL employees who could provide employment counseling, programs and training, to work in public libraries across New York.

The State Library and the public library systems are working with the DOL to assess interest and capacity for hosting such staff in public libraries. The public library systems are surveying member libraries this week and next and results will be shared with the Department of Labor as soon as results are complete.

Public Library Systems and public libraries continue to work individually in many regions of the state to collaborate on job/career information training and workshops for both library staff and the public.

For additional information on the survey please contact: Cassie Artale, New York State Library / Division of Library Development, 518/474-1479, cartale@mail.nysed.gov

Touring Turn-of-the-Century America

Photographs from the Detroit Publishing Company, 1880-1920

This collection of photographs at the Library of Congress from the Detroit Publishing
Company Collection includes more than 25,000 glass negatives and transparencies as well as about 300 color photolithograph prints, mostly of the eastern United States. The collection includes the work of a number of photographers, one of whom was the well known photographer William Henry Jackson.

Yet another article about how wonderful libraries are

Article in the NY Times about how libraries are finding themselves as makeshift employment centers.

Telescope Event at the Pine Bush Discovery Center on May 3

Do you own a telescope?
Do you know how to use it?
Would you like some help?
WHERE The Pine Bush Discovery Center
195 New Karner Road
Albany, New York 12205
WHEN Sunday, May 3, 2009
TIME 4:00—6:00 PM
COST $20.00 per telescope
(free to members of Dudley and Friends of Pine Bush)
RSVP Call Dudley Observatory at 382-7583 to reserve your
spot. Please tell us the make & model of your telescope.
WORKSHOP INCLUDES
How to balance your telescope, align and use finder, use
star maps, and more.
OUTDOOR VIEWING IF CLEAR
Dudley Observatory
107 Nott Terrace, Suite 201
Schenectady, New York 12308
518-382-7583
www.dudleyobservatory.org

Meetona: the meeting maker

From the Hill Library

Overcome the challenges of coordinating meeting times for large groups of people with meetona.

Meetona is a free Web-based tool for organizing meetings. It does not require registration, login, or downloads and it holds no information on its users. The organizer simply creates a calendar of potential meeting times and shares the calendar URL with the meeting participants. Each participant removes the options that don't work for him or her, and the resulting calendar shows only the times when all participants are available.

Job Seekers Turn to the Library as a Base of Operations

Read what The New York Times has to say about how libraries help job seekers.

Governor David A. Paterson’s Recovery Cabinet to Hold Broadband Stimulus Information Session

March 30, 2009, 1pm – 3pm
Clark Auditorium, Cultural Education Center
Empire State Plaza, Concourse Level
Albany, NY

Governor David A. Paterson’s Recovery Stimulus Cabinet is conducting Information Sessions across the State regarding the provisions of the Recovery Bill. An Information Session on the Broadband Provisions of the Recovery Bills will be jointly hosted by NYS Chief Information Officer and New York State Office for Technology (CIO/OFT) and the NYS Public Service Commission (PSC). Come hear about the Broadband Initiatives funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) (“Stimulus”) of 2009. Learn how these provisions align with Governor David A. Paterson’s Universal Broadband Strategy for New Yorkers. This meeting is intended for members in the broadband service provider community, digital literacy training community in the public and private sectors, local/county/state entities, not-for-profit organizations, foundations, schools, community technology centers, libraries and other organizations who provide either Internet services or digital literacy and consumer education programs.

Hear about the two main broadband programs: Broadband Technology Opportunities Program and the Rural Utilities Services Broadband provisions of the Stimulus Bill. Included in the session will be a question and answer segment. Please email your questions no later than 48 hours before the session begins to broadbandstimulus@cio.state.ny.us to enable a productive session.

Invited Parties Include:
· State and local officials and agencies interested in extending Broadband access to their unserved and underserved urban and rural communities;
· Not-for-profit organizations interested in deploying Broadband access to the populations they serve;
· Libraries, educational and research institutions, foundations or digital literacy education programs interested in building out broadband infrastructure or providing digital literacy training programs to increase broadband demand and adoption; and
· Broadband service providers interested in partnering with other public and private organizations and companies to accelerate the build out of broadband infrastructures and training programs which will create jobs.

To Make A Reservation: Please make your reservation to attend by sending an email to: broadbandstimulus@cio.state.ny.us . With limited space, the state is asking each organization to limit the number of attendees to no more than four, as a courtesy, to allow more organizations to participate in the first of a series of information sessions.

For Additional Information and Stimulus Resources: Please continue to monitor Governor David A. Paterson’s Recovery website at: www.recovery.ny.gov. Mail your prepared questions to broadbandstimulus@cio.state.ny.us or use the toll free broadband stimulus number at 1-866-322-5787.

Support Your Libraries

Library Advocates need to remind their Legislators and the Governor to restore the proposed $18 million or 18% cut in Library Aid.

Please go to NYLA's Online Advocacy Center and send a fax/email to your legislators to remind them not to forget about their commitments to restore Library Aid. If these cuts go through, Library Aid will be reduced to $80.5 million, a level not seen since 1993.

Library usage has skyrocketed across the state and nation. Now is not the time to cut public services that are in the greatest demand and needed the most.
Libraries have already been cut twice last year, we have contributed our share, now it is time for others to do their part to solve the state's budget deficit.

New York State Guide

The digital collections of the Library of Congress contain a wide variety of material associated with New York State, including manuscripts, broadsides, government documents, books, and maps. This guide compiles links to digital materials related to New York that are available throughout the Library of Congress Web site. In addition, it provides links to external Web sites focusing on New York and a bibliography containing selected works for both a general audience and younger readers.

Created by Angela McMillian, Digital Reference Specialist

ARRA Update

nformation on stimulus funding for NEA now available online '

The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) includes $50 million for the
National Endowment for the Arts. The first two grants funded by the ARRA of
interest to libraries were posted on Grants.gov yesterday.

For more information and link to the grant announcements, go to the "What
librarians should know about ARRA" section on www.ala.org/knowyourstimulus.

Oxford English Dictionary Updates and Adds New Words

On 12 March 2009 the New Edition was updated with revised entries in a series of discrete alphabetical ranges, as well as the addition of new entries from across the alphabet. In some ranges, not every entry was revised, as editorial effort was concentrated on the most significant groups of related words.

Job posting: CDLC Member Services Coordinator

The Capital District Library Council is looking for an energetic and creative individual to fill the position of Member Services Coordinator.

Title: Member Services Coordinator
Reports To: Executive Director
Position: Full-time (35 hours per week), Exempt, Excellent Benefits

The Capital District Library Council is seeking a dynamic self-starter interested in providing leadership for library programs, services, and activities offered to member libraries by the Council. The Coordinator provides administrative support for all Council operations including general office activities, financial operations, records management, and the Board of Trustees.

This position is an opportunity for an energetic and creative person to learn about all type of libraries and a variety library system activities.

Qualifications
· Minimum Bachelor’s Degree; preference given to MLS Degree
· Minimum three years relevant experience

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
· Understanding of libraries and library programs
· Strong leadership skills
· Ability to forge strong community partnerships and effectively communicate with a variety of groups and individuals
· Public relations skills
· Comfort with evolving technologies
· Demonstrated proficiency in MS Office software applications (Word, Excel, Access, Publisher); preference given to candidates with experience in Peachtree or other accounting software
· Ability and willingness to teach and assist other staff members in applications software
· Enthusiasm, confidence, and a genuine interest in people
· Awareness of the role of libraries in the community

CDLC is one of New York State’s nine regional Reference, Research and Resources (3Rs) Library Systems. The Council provides infrastructure for information services to all types of libraries in ten upstate counties. For more information visit the Council’s web page at http://www.cdlc.org/.

To apply please send resumé and names of three references to:
Jean K. Sheviak, Executive Director
jsheviak@cdlc.org
or
28 Essex Street
Albany, NY 12206
Review of applications will begin on April 1, 2009

CDLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer

Stanford Web Credibility Project

From the Hill Library:

What causes users to believe what they find on the Web? What factors influence them? If you're interested in the answers to these questions and more, you should know about the Stanford Web Credibility Project.

The Web Credibility Project is part of the Stanford Persuasive Technology Lab, which "creates insight into how computing products - from websites to mobile phone software - can be designed to change what people believe and what they do." The Project carries out quantitative research on Web credibility, collects information on the topic, and acts as a clearing house.

Based on its research, the Web Credibility Project has compiled a top 10 list of design factors influencing site credibility. To check out these guidelines, visit here.

Medieval helpdesk (with English subtitles)

Helpdesk support back in the day. Original taken from the show "Øystein og jeg" on Norwegian Broadcasting (NRK)in 2001. With Øystein Backe (helper)and Rune Gokstad (desperate monk). Written by Knut Nærum.

HMLA Spring Dinner: An Evening with Paul Grondahl

Please join the Hudson Mohawk Library Association on Friday, April 17th, 2009 at the Italian American Community Center for dinner and a presentation by Paul Grondahl, Times Union reporter, author, and professor.

Schedule
5:30 Social Hour (Cash Bar)
6:30 Annual Business Meeting
6:40 2009 Distinguished Service Award: John Vallely
6:45 Dinner
8:00 Program

The dinner is $25 per person; registration form available here. For more information, about HMLA, visit the website.

Paul Grondahl will be speaking on a variety of topics including local history, politics, and the Obama Inauguration. He has produced a DVD about the inauguration that will be available for purchase for $10.

Grondahl is an award-winning journalist and author. He has been a staff writer at the Albany Times Union since 1984, where his assignments have taken him from the Arctic to Antarctica, from Northern Ireland to Africa, and across New York State, from Ground Zero on 9/11 to the Adirondack wilderness.

The author of four books, Grondahl also was named Albany Author of the Year in 1997 by the Albany Public Library and Notable Author of the Year by the Guilderland Public Library and East Greenbush Public Library, both in 2004. He has been featured on C-SPAN’s "About Books" and "Book TV".

STATE LIBRARIAN ANNOUNCES PUBLIC LIBRARY CONSTRUCTION GRANTS

New York State Librarian and Assistant Commissioner for Libraries, Bernard A. Margolis, announced that the New York State Library has awarded 240 matching Public Library Construction Grants to public libraries and public library systems for 2008-09. Fifty-nine grants are supported by $777,101 in local assistance funds and 181 grants are supported by $14 million in capital funds appropriated in the 2008 State Budget for construction and renovation of public library and public library system buildings in New York State.

A list of those libraries and library systems receiving matching grants under each grant program can be accessed at here. Project activities and expenditures eligible for such grants include financing construction of new library buildings, construction of additions to existing buildings, and the renovation and/or rehabilitation of existing space, including roof replacement, purchase and installation of alternative energy resources and new HVAC systems, windows, doors, and lighting systems, electrical upgrades, and construction of new or replacement of old walkways and parking lots, among other things. New furniture, shelving and equipment, including computer equipment, can be purchased for new or newly reconfigured or renovated space. Renovations designed to provide accessibility for patrons with disabilities is a high priority.

There is a documented need of more than $2.2 billion for public library construction and renovation in New York State. The proposed 2009 Executive Budget includes $14 million in capital funds for the Public Library Construction Grant Program for 2009-2010.

Please contact Grace Kelly at the New York State Library's Division of Library Development at 518/474-4883 or gkelly@mail.nysed.gov for more information on the Public Library Construction Grant Program or visit the New York State Library website.

400 Great Discoveries in Albany

2009 marks the City of Albany's Quadricentennial, honoring the 400th anniversary of Captain Henry Hudson's voyage. Enter your own "Great Discovery" in the categories of Event, Place, Restaurant, Recreation or Activity, Arts and Culture, Architecture or History. You may submit as many entries as you like.

Prize winners will be drawn at random from those whose entries were selected for the list of 400 Great Discoveries in Albany. Prizes include a $400 cash prize, dinner for a family of four at DP-An American Brasserie, family 4-pack tickets to a show at the Times Union Center, and more!

Entry Deadline: April 1, 2009

Antioch Library keeps going

An interesting article in the NY Times this week regarding the library at Antioch College. The College has been closed since last year but the library (with a smaller staff) has been kept going.

Video: Why Twitter is all the rage

A two minute video on how Twitter is the happening resource these days.

Federal Stimulus Package TOWN HALL FORUM

FIND OUT
• How your community can benefit from the Stimulus Package
• What projects are eligible for funding
• Job and Business Opportunities

WHEN & WHERE
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
6-8 PM @ The College of St. Rose
Touhey Forum
Thelma P. Lally School of Education
1009 madison avenue, albany, NY

RSVP
Please contact the office of
Senate Majority Leader Malcolm A. Smith at: (212) 298-5585

Other meetings across the state listed here.

President Obama’s Inauguration Topic of Albany Public Library Program on March 17

Albany Journalists, Councilman to Recall Their Experiences

The historic inauguration of the United States’ 44th president is the focus of a March 17 program at the Albany Public Library (APL). "Relive the Historic Day: Reflections on the Inauguration of Barack Obama as the 44th President of the United States" takes place at 12:15 p.m. in the large auditorium of the Main Library at 161 Washington Avenue. The public is invited to this free event.

Local journalists Paul Grondahl and Dennis Gaffney, who is also president of the APL Board of Trustees, and Albany Councilman Corey Ellis will share their experiences from the January 20 inauguration of President Barack Obama. All three men attended the inauguration in Washington, DC, and have many stories to tell about their experiences. The program will include a video presentation, produced by Grondahl, about the historic event.

This event is sponsored by the Friends of the Albany Public Library and is part of the Friends weekly "Noon Talk" programs, which feature book reviews, panel discussions, and programs of current interest to the community.

The Albany Public Library (APL) operates six locations serving the residents of Albany. Each month, more than 55,000 people use the libraries to borrow materials, attend programs, access computers, and research information. More than 90,000 books, DVDs, and other materials are circulated each month. APL is creating five new branches to better serve customers.

Apply online for an extension to file state income tax return

Need an extension to file your personal state income tax return? Apply online for an automatic extension. It's free and easy to use. You'll receive an instant, printable confirmation that the Tax Department received your application.

To apply for an extension to file online, go here.

If you owe tax with your extension, you can pay it by:
- direct debit from a savings or checking account
- credit card (a convenience fee applies)
- printing a voucher and mailing a check

Revolutionary British search engine will be 'as important as Google'

By Claire Bates

A renowned British physicist is launching a new internet search engine in May, which experts said could be as important as Google.

Professor Stephen Wolfram, founder of software company Wolfram Research, announced that work was almost finished on the first phase of his 'computational knowledge engine.'

Most search engines like Google and Yahoo scan through billions of web pages for keywords or phrases and return a series of documents that may contain the answer to your question, or point you in the right direction.

'We can only answer questions that have been literally asked before. We can look things up, but we can’t figure anything new out,' Professor Wolfram said.

However, the London-born physicist claims his website 'Wolfram Alpha' can understand what you are looking for and calculate a single precise answer.


The entire article can be read at

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FTC Warns Consumers About Economic Stimulus Scams

The Federal Trade Commission is warning consumers that they could get stung by an economic stimulus scam. The scams come in different forms.

Right now, on the Web and in e-mail, scammers are telling consumers they can help them qualify for a payment from President Obama’s economic stimulus package. All they have to do is provide a little information or a small payment.

E-mail messages may ask for bank account information so that the operators can deposit consumers’ share of the stimulus directly into their bank account. Instead, the scammers drain consumers’ accounts of money and disappear. Or bogus e-mail may appear to be from government agencies and ask for information to "verify" that you qualify for a payment. The scammers use that information to commit identity theft. Some e-mail scams don’t ask for information, but provide links to find out how to qualify for funds. By clicking on the links, consumers have downloaded malicious software or spyware that can be used to make them a victim of identity theft.

Webcast: Economic Stimulus Scams.

New Blog from the Librarians at National Public Radio

"NPR’s information provocateurs are emerging from the stacks to bring you a super-fresh perspective on what it’s like to be an NPR librarian. We’ll cover everything from pop-culture insanity and weird pronunciations to the history of NPR and libraries in the news.

...as a matter of fact blog.

ALA releases gaming toolkit

Libraries are changing and dynamic places, and no better evidence of that exists than the spread of gaming in the nation’s public, school and academic libraries.

In recognition of this trend and the increasing value of gaming to literacy improvement, the American Library Association, with assistance from a $1 million grant from the Verizon Foundation, has developed an online toolkit to aid librarians in serving this growing constituency.

The Librarian’s Guide to Gaming: An Online Toolkit for Building Gaming @ your library offers content contributed by expert gaming librarians across the country. The toolkit includes a wide range of resources to help librarians create, fund and evaluate gaming experiences in the library.

Obama Temporary License Plates Newest Collectors Item

by Lynn Sweeton February 13, 2009 1:01 PM
Chicago Sun Times

WASHINGTON--The Land of Lincoln is joining the crowd making a buck off the popular son of Illinois, President Obama. Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White is selling Obama plates--good only for 60 days--for $50 a pair.

The Illinois Library Association will use the profits to help fund materials for library run summer reading programs for students.

In the first wave, the plates will be sold only to people from Illinois who have autos. For people who don't have cars--no matter where they live-- the souvenir plates can be purchased for $50 after April 17.

Art for All

Adults and children of all ages are welcome to drop in at the Albany Institute on select Saturdays and Sundays to explore history and art through creativity.

Experience the works of art in our galleries and then join in art-making activities in the studio. Programs are held from 1:00 to 4:00 pm and are FREE with museum admission.

Next dates: March 14 & 21
April 11, 19 & 26
May 2, 9, 17

St. Patrick's Day Parade

Albany's 59th Annual St. Patrick's Day Parade takes place on Saturday, March 14, 2009. The Parade steps off at 2 pm at Quail Street and Central Avenue and travels down Washington Avenue to State Street to North Pearl Street.
Be sure to don your green apparel and have some fun! Click here for more.

Television Viewing in Infancy and Child Cognition

Since 1999, the American Academy of Pediatrics has recommended no screen media for children <2 years of age. Nevertheless, recent nationally representative data indicate that 68% of children <2 years of age use screen media on a typical day, and one quarter of these children have a television (TV) set in his or her bedroom. Additional data suggest most US-born infants <2 years of age watch between 1 and 2 hours of TV daily. Given the large number of infants who are regularly exposed to TV, and the large number of parents who believe that it is good for their development, it is important to determine the effects of TV viewing on the developing cognition of young children...

CONCLUSION. Television viewing in infancy does not seem to be associated with language or visual motor skills at 3 years of age.



http://pediatrics.aappublications.org/cgi/content/full/123/3/e370 Television viewing in infancy does not seem to be associated with language or visual motor skills at 3 years of age.

NYLA Legislative Alert

Dear Colleagues and Library Advocates,

State Budget negotiations are ramping up as both the Assembly and the Senate prepare to release their budget proposals by early next week. Despite the state receiving approximately $24.6 billion in federal stimulus funds including $2.4 billion for school aid over the next two years, Library Aid funding remains in jeopardy.

Next Tuesday, March 10th is Library Lobby Day> The library community is urged to make every effort to participate so we can have a strong showing in Albany that will demonstrate to public policymakers the urgent need to restore the proposed $18 million or 18% cut in Library Aid that will impact all types of libraries, public, school and college.

Full details about Pre-Lobby Day, Monday, March 9th and Library Lobby Day, Tuesday, March 10th can be found on NYLA's website at www.nyla.org. If you are interested in attending, contact your regional coordinator, a list can be found on NYLA's Lobby Day page.

In addition, a video of NYLA's Executive Director's appearance on Senator Liz Krueger's (D-Manhattan) cable show and NYLA's testimony before the Joint Legislative Budget Hearing can now be viewed by going to www.nyla.org under Headlines.

Also links to information about the federal stimulus package and how it impacts libraries and how libraries can apply for funding from the state can also be found on the NYLA website.

Money...and Managing it!

Economics got ya down? Have a little extra time on your hands? Drop by the Main Library on Wednesday, March 4th @9AM for Managing your Money, a workshop presented by SEFCU.
Stay after the program for some one-on-one assistance.

Please contact the Reference Department at 427-4303 for more information or to register. Space IS limited.

Staff Development Day - Library CLOSED March 5

All APL locations will be closed on Thursday, March 5, 2009 for Staff Development Day.

Does Breastfeeding Reduce the Risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome?

This study shows that breastfeeding reduced the risk of sudden infant death syndrome by ~50% at all ages throughout infancy.

The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act

The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 was signed by President Barack Obama on February 17, 2009. This legislation provides a nearly $800 billion boost to the American Economy.

New York's Guide to the 2009 American Recovery and Reinvestment Act can found at www.economicrecovery.ny.gov. The web site includes details about the $24 billion spending plan, Cabinet members, press releases, and an email update request form.

2009 Price-Change Stamps Unveiled

Also, New Forever Personalized Stamp Envelope Introduced. Lots of romance with the 44-cent (1 oz) King & Queen of Hearts and Wedding Rings, plus a 61-cent (2 oz) Wedding Cake. Remember, rates go up on May 11, 2009, the day after Mother's Day.

More Light Than Heat: Muslim-Jewish-Christian Dialogue on the Middle East

“Can You Hear the Other Side?” - A panel discussion on the Middle East, with particular reference to Israel and Palestine.

An experiment in non-confrontational dialogue on the contentious issues of Israel and Palestine will take place at the Hubbard Interfaith Sanctuary at the College of Saint Rose on Sunday afternoon at 3.

Dr. Rashid Naim, a political scientist at Georgia State University who has appeared on CNN, NPR, BBC, and the Voice of America, will express a Muslim point of view while Dr. Ethan Bloch, a member of Albany’s Brit Tzedek v’Shalom (Jewish Alliance for Justice and Peace) and a math professor at Bard College, will present a Jewish perspective. A Christian take on the issues will come from Dr. Karl Barbir, professor of history at Siena College.

The moderator for the session will be Paul Elisha, WAMC commentator and presenter of Performance Place.

The Interfaith Alliance of New York State, during the recent violence in Gaza, felt the need for calm dialogue in which the goal is to learn from each other rather than to score debating points. Co-sponsors are The Muslim Community of Troy, Brit Tzedek v’Shalom, Capital Area Council of Churches, Labor-Religion Coalition of the Capital District, and the Peace and Justice Commission of the Roman Catholic Diocese of
Albany.

The dialogue process is aimed at listening to each other as openly and sympathetically as possible in an attempt to understand the other person’s position as precisely and as much “from within” as possible. In contrast to a debate, this kind of dialogue includes the challenging assumption that the other person’s position could be persuasive enough to cause changes in one’s own views.

The particular model for this dialogue process is the “Dialogue Decalogue” by Leonard Swidler, first published in 1983 in the Journal of Ecumenical Studies. It has been translated into more than a dozen languages and can be found on the internet at www.usao.edu/~facshaferi/DIALOG00.HTML, slightly adapted for secular as well as religious dialogue.

Exploring a ‘Deep Web’ That Google Can’t Grasp

From the New York Times: "Now a new breed of technologies is taking shape that will extend the reach of search engines into the Web’s hidden corners. When that happens, it will do more than just improve the quality of search results — it may ultimately reshape the way many companies do business online."

New Yorkers for Better Libraries' Fundraising Gala

New Yorkers for Better Libraries is holding its annual banquet and fundraising gala on Monday, March 9, 2009 at the Holiday Inn Albany on Wolf Road.

Please join NYLIBS-PAC for this special evening to support the library community of New York. The evening will begin with an open-bar cocktail hour at 6:00 p.m. Buffet dinner will begin at 7:00 p.m. This year’s program includes live entertainment, an up-to-the-minute legislative update, contests, and opportunities to win great raffle prizes. A good time is guaranteed!

Banquet Registration: Your $100 payment includes open bar cocktail hour, buffet dinner, 10 raffle tickets, and a contribution to your library PAC. Those who have already made a 2009 contribution to the PAC are invited to attend (dinner only) for $50.

To register and pay online, go to www.nylibs-pac.net. Click on “Make A Donation.” Enter “Banquet” on the Paypal screen under “Purpose,” and then complete and submit the online payment form.

Or send a $100 check to New Yorkers for Better Libraries, PO Box 795, Canton, NY 13617.

Or, to make arrangements to pay at the door, call 518-331-8382; fax 518-935-9007; or email bnr51@msn.com

New Yorkers for Better Libraries Political Action Committee (NYLIBS-PAC) was formed in 2003 by library leaders who believe in the importance of campaign contributions as part of a multi-faceted legislative strategy designed to increase state aid to libraries and library systems.

The mission of the New Yorkers for Better Libraries PAC is to provide financial support to legislators who are in a position to effectively champion libraries. In 2008, we contributed $26,700 to 35 campaign committees. These contributions have brought us access to decision makers and have signaled a seriousness of intent within the library community.

For hotel registration: A group rate is available at the Holiday Inn Albany on Wolf Road. Mention the New York Library Association. Call 1-518-458-7250 to get a room reservation.

City of Albany Bicycle Master Plan Public Meeting 2/25

The City of Albany, in partnership with the Capital District Transportation Committee, is undertaking a Bicycle Master Plan to identify a network of bicycle routes to help make cycling a more viable way of getting around the City. You are invited to attend the first of two workshops to be held during this study. You may drop-in early to share your thoughts or attend the 6:30 PM presentation to learn more about the project.

For more details, click here.

U.S. Education Secretary Announces State-by-State Dollars

The U.S. Department of Education posted on-line state-by-state estimates of new education revenues included in the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. U.S. Education Secretary Arne Duncan vowed to release a significant share of the $100 billion in funding in time to avert teacher layoffs.

Project Information Literacy

Project Information Literacy is national research project, based in the University of Washington’s Information School. We are currently collecting data from early adults enrolled in community colleges, pubic colleges and universities, and private colleges and universities in the U.S.

Its goal is to understand how early adults conceptualize and operationalize research activities for course work and 'everyday use' and especially how they resolve issues of credibility, authority, relevance, and currency in the digital age.

Progress Report February, 2009 (14 pages; PDF)

Another Look at Who Is to Blame

In a recent online poll, Time magazine asked its readers who was most to blame for the current economic crisis. Readers rated the guilt of 25 different people on a scale of 1 (innocent) to 10 (guilty). On that scale, the American Consumer rated an 8--even guiltier, according to the public, than George W. Bush or Alan Greenspan.

But is the American Consumer guilty as charged? Not necessarily.

The Economic Stimulus Bill: How It Could Affect You

Here's a description from About.com which is both comprehensive and comprehensible.

The area's most influential events of the past 400 years

The Albany-Colonie Regional Chamber of Commerce is asking for your vote. In celebration of the region's Quadricentennial, the Chamber has compiled a list of some of the area's most influential events of the past 400 years. The Chamber is asking Capital Region residents to vote on which milestones have had the biggest impact on our region. Voting will take place on the Chamber Website. Only one vote per person is allowed. Voting is open to the public and will be open through Thursday, February 26th.

How to open a book

LINK

No state mailing taxing to librarians

Paper chase for income tax forms pressures cash-pinched libraries from the February 11, 2009 Times Union (Albany, NY).

Love Your Library license plates

The Department of Motor Vehicles' Custom Plate Gallery for Causes and Organizations. Among them Love Your Library. $25 of the annual fee supports the NYS Library's Statewide Summer Reading Program.

Light From Ancient Africa

Join the Friends at their noontime program on Tuesday, February 17th.

Dr. Betty Patterson Shadrick, of the University of Albany will review Light From Ancient Africa by Na'im Akbar. In this book Na'im Akbar provides the reader with a clear and concise understanding of the African (Kemetic) origins of psychology.

Light Refreshments served. This event is open to the public but membership in the Friends is encouraged!

Black History Month Films

Mark your calendar for the Tuesdays in February (17 and 24) at 6PM. During the month of February, the Nation celebrates Black History Month and APL will be celebrating with a movie series.
The February 17th film is Cornbread, Earl and Me which is about a high school basketball star who is mistaken for a murderer. On February 24th, the film is Cabin in the Sky, based on some of the finest entertainers Duke Ellington, Louis Armstrong and Lena Horne.

Call the Main Library for additional information at 427-4300.

Woman's Day seeks library stories

Woman's Day magazine has announced a call for entries on a timely topic: using the library to help save money. From February 17 through May 18, 2009, women ages 18 and up are invited to send in stories in 700 words or less for a chance to be profiled in the March 2010 issue. Up to four women's stories will be featured.

Visit http://www.womansday.com/Content/Family-Lifestyle/ALA-Contest-Info-Rules.

Librarians can download free tools to help collect local stories from the Campaign for America's Libraries website.

Lincoln’s notes fetch $3 million for Dryden library

Christie's auctions 1864 manuscript

Reading Radar

An automated reading list of bestsellers created by combining the New York Times Bestsellers API and the Amazon.com API.

NOVELny databases FAQ for 2009/10

Information on the databases available through NOVELny beginning April 1, 2009 is now available on the novelnewyork.org site. Currently the FAQ includes the list of databases that will be provided through NOVELny, a list of databases that will not be continued, and a description of the database selection process. The FAQ will be expanded over the coming weeks. Please continue to check the site for updates. Any questions regarding the resources described above should be sent to: nyslnovel@mail.nysed.gov.

Provided by the New York State Library, NOVELNY is a pilot project for the Statewide Internet Library connecting New Yorkers to 21st century information. NOVELNY is supported with temporary federal Library Services and Technology Act funds from the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS).

I have noted some complaints about the timing of the switch, in the middle of the semester, with one individual wondering if the contract might be changed to expire in the summer instead.

Tax Dept Website, Automated Phone Service Helps Taxpayers Track Refund Check Status

New York State Department of Taxation and Finance Commissioner Robert L. Megna reminds taxpayers that they can track the status of their state income tax refund checks on the department’s website or by calling the automated refund status hotline.

Taxpayers who expect state income tax refunds can call the department’s Refund Hotline at 1-800-443-3200 or 518-457-5149, or online at www.nystax.gov. Tax filers will need to know their social security numbers, the amount of the state refund claimed, and which New York tax forms they filed.

More info here.

Digital Archivists, Now in Demand

"The people entrusted to find a place for this wealth of information are known as digital asset managers, or sometimes as digital archivists and digital preservation officers. Whatever they are called, demand for them is expanding."

See the full text in the NY Times. (Free registration may be required.)

New Yorkers for Better Libraries' Fundraising Gala

New Yorkers for Better Libraries is holding its annual banquet and fundraising gala on Monday, March 9, 2009 at the Holiday Inn Albany on Wolf Road.

Please join NYLIBS-PAC for this special evening to support the library community of New York. The evening will begin with an open-bar cocktail hour at 6:00 p.m. Buffet dinner will begin at 7:00 p.m. This year’s program includes live entertainment, an up-to-the-minute legislative update, contests, and opportunities to win great raffle prizes. A good time is guaranteed!

Banquet Registration: Your $100 payment includes open bar cocktail hour, buffet dinner, 10 raffle tickets, and a contribution to your library PAC. Those who have already made a 2009 contribution to the PAC are invited to attend (dinner only) for $50.

To register and pay online, go to www.nylibs-pac.net. Click on “Make A Donation.” Enter “Banquet” on the Paypal screen under “Purpose,” and then complete and submit the online payment form.

To make arrangements to pay at the door: Call 518-331-8382; fax 518-935-9007; email bnr51@msn.com

New Yorkers for Better Libraries Political Action Committee (NYLIBS-PAC) was formed in 2003 by library leaders who believe in the importance of campaign contributions as part of a multi-faceted legislative strategy designed to increase state aid to libraries and library systems.

The mission of the New Yorkers for Better Libraries PAC is to provide financial support to legislators who are in a position to effectively champion libraries. In 2008, it contributed $26,700 to 35 campaign committees. These contributions have brought access to decision makers and have signaled a seriousness of intent within the library community.

For hotel registration: A group rate is available - you will need to mention New York Library Association. Call 1-518-458-7250 to book.

STATE LIBRARY ANNOUNCES ELECTRONIC PRODUCTS AVAILABLE ON NOVELNY

New York State Librarian, Bernard A. Margolis, is pleased to announce the electronic products that will constitute the NOVELNY (New York Online Virtual Electronic Library) statewide collection for April 1, 2009 through March 31, 2010. The following databases will be available to library patrons of over 5,500 public, school, academic and special libraries registered for NOVELNY and to individuals who are residents of New York State that visit the site and log on with a driver license ID or a non-driver ID.

The following products were competitively selected after substantial input from the library community through a 2008 statewide online survey of priorities and with the advice and consultation of the NOVELNY Steering Committee subgroup charged with database evaluation. The goal was to provide the broadest array of desired content for the best value given current resources.

New: Products from ProQuest and Grolier! The general reference and periodical database for NOVELNY will be ProQuest Platinum. It provides access to over 2000 magazine and journal titles in a broad scope of subject areas. Grolier’s core databases (Encyclopedia Americana, the Grolier Multimedia Encyclopedia and the New Book of Knowledge) collectively will be of interest to all audiences, elementary through high school and general public library audiences.

In addition, NOVELNY will continue to provide access to EBSCO’s Primary Search (including the Searchasaurus interface) designed specifically for elementary school libraries and to Gale Newspapers (InfoTrac Custom Newspapers, National Newspaper Index, and New York Custom Newspapers), Gale Business and Company Resource Center, Gale Health and Wellness Resource Center, and Twayne’s Authors Series. Any questions regarding the resources described above should be sent to: nyslnovel@mail.nysed.gov.

Provided by the New York State Library, NOVELNY is a pilot project for the Statewide Internet Library connecting New Yorkers to 21st century information. NOVELNY is supported with temporary federal Library Services and Technology Act funds from the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS).

Growing Your Own: Building the Capital Region Economy

The Nelson A. Rockefeller Institute of Government, the New York State Association of Counties and the New York State Department of Labor invite you to join top elected officials, business leaders, educators and policy experts for a special Policy Forum on February 11, 2009 from 9:00 – 4:30 at The Desmond in Colonie. The topic is "Growing Your Own: Building the Capital Region Economy Through Targeted Workforce Development.”

There is no charge for this event, and lunch will be provided. You are welcome to join us for the entire day, or any individual sessions of particular interest. Please RSVP to Arraya Anderson, aanderson@nysac.org.

Growing Your Own:
Building the Capital Region Economy
Through Targeted Workforce Development

February 11, 2009
The Desmond Hotel and Conference Center, Colonie

Agenda

9:00 – 10:30 The New York State Economy: What Does the Future Hold? (Plenary Session, NYSAC Legislative Conference)
Hon. Thomas P. DiNapoli, New York State Comptroller
James Orr, Assistant Vice President, Federal Reserve Bank of New York

Reaction Panel
Frank Mauro, Executive Director, Fiscal Policy Institute
Ken Pokalsky, Senior Director of Government Affairs, Business Council of New York State
Hon. Thomas Santulli, Chemung County Executive
Moderator: Robert Ward, Deputy Director, Rockefeller Institute of Government

10:30 – 11:00 Break

11:00 – 4:30 Greater Capital Region Workforce Policy Forum – Town Hall

11:00 – 11:10 Welcome and Introductions
Steve Acquario, Executive Director, New York State Association of Counties
Hon. Mike Breslin, Albany County Executive
Hon. Kathleen Jimino, Rensselaer County Executive

11:10 – 11:40 Regional Industry Sector Strategies: A Good Approach?
Bruce Herman, Deputy Commissioner for Workforce Development, New York State Department of Labor

11:40 – 12:40 – A Capital Region Promising Industry Sector: A Case Study
Susan Christopherson, Cornell University Research Group
Ned Rightor, Cornell University Research Group
Isabelle Andrews, New York State Association of Counties
Peter Neenan, Director, NYS Department of Labor, Division of Research and Statistics (invited)
Moderator: Susan Arbetter, Host, New York Now, WMHT-TV

12:40 – 1: 30 Lunch

1:30 – 2:30 Business Leaders Speak Out: Our Workforce Needs, Now and in the Future
Kevin Lake, Philips Medical Systems
Peg Murphy, Espey Manufacturing
Larry Treen, Sixnet
Ed McGrath, AMD (invited)
Moderator: Peter Wohl, Regional Director, Empire State Development.

2:30 – 3:20 Elected Leaders Panel: Our Priorities for our Communities
Hon. Mike Breslin, Albany County Executive
Hon. Kathleen Jimino, Rensselaer County Executive
Hon. Jerry Jennings, Mayor, City of Albany
Hon. Earl Van Wormer, Chair, Schoharie County Board of Supervisors
Moderator: Susan Arbetter, Host, New York Now, WMHT-TV

3:20 – 4:10 Workforce Preparation Panel: Our Plans to get the Workforce Ready
Dustin Swanger, President, Fulton-Montgomery Community College
Karen Coleman, Director, NYS Department of Labor Division of Employment and Workforce Solutions
Gail Breen, Fulton-Montgomery-Schoharie Workforce Investment Board
Charles Dedrick, District Superintendent, Capital Region BOCES
Ed Murphy, Workforce Development Institute
Moderator: John Twomey, Executive Director, NYATEP

4:10 – Wrap- up, Next Steps: Robert Ward, Deputy Director, Rockefeller Institute of Government

4:30 – Adjourn

Business Brisk at Area Libraries

Yet another link to an article about how "In Bad Times, Free Resources Are a Hot Commodity" that was in this week's Washington Post.

Save Our Libraries

The Suffolk Cooperative Library System has set up a Save Our Libraries advocacy page. This page contains information on Library Legislation Day, contacting legislators, and signing up for e-mail alerts.

The Worth of Your Library

The latest issue of the Mid-Hudson Library System newsletter for member library trustees focused on The Worth of Your Library. Interesting header notes that libraries during the Great Depression actually expanded, not contracted.

Read past issues of the newsletter, Across the Board here.

Hudson River Panorama

The Albany Institute of History & Art present Hudson River Panorama: 400 Years of History, Art, and Culture. The Exhibition is on display from February 7, 2009 thru January 3, 2010 and commemorates the remarkable narratives of the Hudson River and the people, events, and ideas that have shaped its history. Click here for details.

The City Of Albany's Gospel Gala

On Friday, February 6, 2009 the City of Albany will once again host the celebration of African American History through gospel music at the historic Palace Theatre. This free event will officially kick-off African-American History Month in the City and will include performances by many local gospel choirs and liturgical dance groups. Click here for details.

Important Tax Filing Information

From the state tax department-

Employees of the State of New York:

Report retirement contributions on your State income tax return

If you are an employee of the State of New York and make contributions to a retirement system, you must add these contributions to the amount of the Federal adjusted gross income that you report on your New York State Personal Income Tax return. These contributions are exempt from Federal tax but are not exempt from New York State tax; therefore, the amount must be added to your New York State tax return. (Note: this does not apply to voluntary contributions to a tax deferred annuity.)

You can find the amount of your 2008 retirement contribution (known as “414(h)” contributions) in Box 14 on your W-2 Statement.

Report this amount on the correct line of your income tax return:
Line 13 of Form IT-150 NYS Resident Income Tax Return (short form) or
Line 21 of Form IT-201 NYS Resident Income Tax Return (long form) or
Line 21 of Form IT-203 NYS Nonresident/Part-Year Resident Income Tax Return

Be sure that any tax preparation software you may use performs this calculation.

Failure to add this amount to your Federal adjusted gross income on your New York State Tax return may result in additional tax, interest and penalties.

For more information, contact the New York StateDepartment of Taxation and Finance
at 1-800-225-5829.

Library of Congress Now Has an Official Twitter Feed

You can find the official LC feed here. As of this writing nearly 1000 are following them; they are following no one yet.

SNOW EMERGENCY ANNOUNCEMENT

Please be advised that the City of Albany has issued a SNOW EMERGENCY that will begin at 8:00 PM on Wednesday, January 28, 2009, at which time all normal parking rules and regulations are temporarily suspended.

During the first 24 hours of the snow emergency all vehicles must be parked on the even numbered side of the street.

Beginning at 8:00 P.M. Thursday, January 29th all vehicles must be parked on the odd numbered side of the street.

If you are parked on the wrong side of the street during the snow emergency your car will be ticketed and may result in it being towed.

At 8:00 PM on Friday, January 30, 2009 the snow emergency will be officially declared over and normal parking rules and regulations will go back into effect.

In addition recycling collection will be suspended during the snow emergency. Trash should be placed out as usual. For more information call the Department of General Services at 434-2489 or Click here for more information.

If your vehicle has been towed, call Albany Police Department Traffic Safety Division at 458-5675 for information on how to retrieve your vehicle

Snow emergency brochures, which outline all of the Snow Emergency procedures, can be picked up at any City firehouse, police station, branches of the Albany Public Library or by Clicking Here.

Click Here for a list of Alternate Parking Locations

City of Albany Bicycle Master Plan

Save the date for the City of Albany Bicycle Master Plan Public Meeting scheduled for February 25. It seems the City and the Capital District Transportation Committee is undertaking a Plan to identify a network of bicycle routes to help make cycling a more viable way of getting around. You can drop by and share your thoughts between 4:30 and 6:30PM and/or you can attend the presentation and workshop from 6:30 to 8PM. For more info on the Master Plan, call the City at 434-2532 ext. 33 or email them at albanybikeplan@cdtcmpo.org.

1000 novels to read before you die

The Guardian (U.K.) has rounded up 1000 must-read novels. They will be blogging online and you can let them know what you think of the list.

Plan Now for Economic Challenges!

January 31 - 9AM-3PM

Drop by the Main Library for the Financial Resources Fair & VITA Kick Off

Get some great ideas for surviving the money crunch!
One the same day, the library will kick off its VITA income tax assistance program. So bring in your W-2s and learn how to begin improving your finances all at the same time. For more info, contact us at 427-4303.

A New TV Age

If you are receiving your television signal through rabbit ears and you've been procrastinating about getting your coupon for the digital converter box, you should know that they are out of coupons until enough coupons already sent expire. I ordered my coupons about six weeks ago, right after the ice storm and they arrived only two days ago.

This means you've got only about three weeks to figure out how you're going to keep up with 60 Minutes. Get on the coupon waiting list by visiting this website and keep your fingers crossed.

So you think you want to own your own business

Free orientation Tuesday, January 27, 2009, 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Conference Room #2, Albany Public Library, 161 Washington Ave, Albany

More info here.

The Friends Present. Paul Grondahl

Paul Grondahl's review of the Dexter Filkins book The Forever War.

Mr. Grondahl, of the Albany Times Union, will discuss this reporter's (Filkins) account of how the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq were experienced by those who actually waged them.
Will you feel like dancing in the streets after the Inauguration?

Tuesday, January 27, High Noon, Main Auditorium

Light Refreshments will be served.

Books rule

Earlier this month, I saw the story Ebook DRM provider goes dark, the books you paid for disappear. As one librarian noted on a listserv, It used to be that you worried about fire, water damage, mold and theft. Now your collections can "expire"!

Another wrote: "This situation has been worrisome for many years, not only with
respect to e-books, but with regard to any purchased datafiles."

Electronic resources becoming unavailable isn't really new. I still have some 5.25" floppy discs SOMEWHERE. My library used to have microfiche. And Census has electronic files from the 1960s that are not easily transferable.

Citizen's Police Review Board

Drop by the Library Auditorium at 6PM on January 26 for some rollicking fun with the Citizen's Police Review Board.

Eagle Eye: Two Thumbs Up!

Drop by the Main Library at 2PM on Sunday, January 25 for an afternoon movie featuring two strangers and a mystery.

A young slacker and a single mom become pawns of a mysterious woman they have never met, but who seems to know their every move. The two are framed by terrorists and forced to become part of a planned political assassination.

Free and Open to the Public
Call 427-4303 for more information

Libraries' many benefits rediscovered in hard economic times

Although talking about libraries in Wisconsin and the upsurge of use in these hard economic times, I always like to show these stories in other parts of the US.

Six Tips to Preserve Your Election Collections

Across the nation, Americans are saving newspapers, posters, buttons, and bumper stickers to commemorate the historic election and inauguration of Barack Obama, America’s first African American president. Anne-Imelda M. Radice, Director of the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), encourages citizen-collectors to make sure that their presidential inauguration collections will be preserved long into the future.

“The election day newspaper – cared for properly — will still be there years from now to remind us and future generations of this singular moment in American history,” Radice said. “This is a great time to raise awareness of the need to protect election and inauguration-related items from common threats such as high temperature, humidity, and light exposure.”

More here.

The Information ecology of social media and online communities

Social media systems such as weblogs, photo- and link-sharing sites, wikis and on-line forums are currently thought to produce up to one third of new Web content. One thing that sets these “Web 2.0” sites apart from traditional Web pages and resources is that they are intertwined with other forms of networked data. Their standard hyperlinks are enriched by social networks, comments, trackbacks, advertisements, tags, RDF data and metadata.