From BoingBoing:
Back when dinosaurs roamed the earth, and the woman seated next to you on the plane could smoke her Virginia Slims all the way from Chicago to L.A., libraries were fully-funded and considered an essential for every community. Then came the financial crash, and the slash-and-burn began for library budgets. The American Library Association's handy infographic shows the impact that library budget cuts have on the communities they serve—and shows how libraries are weathering the storm...
Read the 2012 Public Library Funding & Technology Access study, produced by the ALA and funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.
Thursday, August 30, 2012
Tuesday, August 28, 2012
Public Meetings Tonight and September 12 re Albany Reapportionment
Tonight, Aug. 28 at 5:30pm at the Albany Public Library main branch on Washington Avenue, the City of Albany Reapportionment Commission (chaired by Vicente Alfonso) will be holding its first public forum to receive input on reapportionment related issues.
Here is a link to the Commission's webpage, which also includes the Commission's workplan timetable and other data elements.
There will be an additional public forum on September 12 for the commission to receive input.
Here is a link to the article in today's Times Union about the redistricting commission.
Below is some information from the redistricting website that describes the work and purpose of the Commission. The Commission consists of eight volunteer Albany residents who were appointed by the Albany Common Council. Unlike the last reapportionment commission, there are no Common Council Members who serve on the current commission.
City Wards & Redistricting
OVERVIEW
In accordance with the City Charter, the City of Albany is divided into 15 legislative districts, or Wards. Each Ward is represented by a City Common Council Member who is elected by their constituency to serve a four year term. Each Common Council Member functions to regulate and protect the interests of residents within their Ward.
Collectively the members comprise the Common Council which serves as the legislative branch of Albany’s government. The Common Council is authorized to adopt, amend or repeal local laws, ordinances, resolutions and regulations pertaining to property and government affairs within the City.
Ward boundaries are established by the Common Council to best represent the demographics within the City and are based primarily on Census information.
REDISTRICTING
Redistricting refers to the process by which census data is used to redraw the boundaries of electoral districts, or in the case of the City of Albany, Ward boundaries. Redistricting impacts the weight of your vote and involves making difficult decisions constricted by complicated local, State and Federal laws. In the City of Albany, this process is conducted every 10 years, and is based on the latest Federal Decennial Census information. The City's Ward boundaries were last finalized in 2003 based on Census 2000 data, and are currently undergoing review per the 2010 Census. Redistricting represents one of the most important undertakings of our democracy.
REAPPORTIONMENT COMMISSION
The Reapportionment Commission is appointed by the Common Council to review Ward boundaries within the City of Albany. In order to accommodate population changes and demographic shifts reported in current Census surveys, the Commission strives to maximize the legal principle of "one person, one vote," consistent with the Voting Rights Act of 1965 and subsequent case laws.
The Commission also has a responsibility to maximize public participation in the process of redistricting in the City of Albany, and to ensure the Ward maps best represent protected groups and community of interests within the City. The Commission obtains public input on representation and boundary adjustments through public meetings, hearings and other community outreach. A finalized plan will be presented to the Common Council for their review and approval.
Here is a link to the Commission's webpage, which also includes the Commission's workplan timetable and other data elements.
There will be an additional public forum on September 12 for the commission to receive input.
Here is a link to the article in today's Times Union about the redistricting commission.
Below is some information from the redistricting website that describes the work and purpose of the Commission. The Commission consists of eight volunteer Albany residents who were appointed by the Albany Common Council. Unlike the last reapportionment commission, there are no Common Council Members who serve on the current commission.
City Wards & Redistricting
OVERVIEW
In accordance with the City Charter, the City of Albany is divided into 15 legislative districts, or Wards. Each Ward is represented by a City Common Council Member who is elected by their constituency to serve a four year term. Each Common Council Member functions to regulate and protect the interests of residents within their Ward.
Collectively the members comprise the Common Council which serves as the legislative branch of Albany’s government. The Common Council is authorized to adopt, amend or repeal local laws, ordinances, resolutions and regulations pertaining to property and government affairs within the City.
Ward boundaries are established by the Common Council to best represent the demographics within the City and are based primarily on Census information.
REDISTRICTING
Redistricting refers to the process by which census data is used to redraw the boundaries of electoral districts, or in the case of the City of Albany, Ward boundaries. Redistricting impacts the weight of your vote and involves making difficult decisions constricted by complicated local, State and Federal laws. In the City of Albany, this process is conducted every 10 years, and is based on the latest Federal Decennial Census information. The City's Ward boundaries were last finalized in 2003 based on Census 2000 data, and are currently undergoing review per the 2010 Census. Redistricting represents one of the most important undertakings of our democracy.
REAPPORTIONMENT COMMISSION
The Reapportionment Commission is appointed by the Common Council to review Ward boundaries within the City of Albany. In order to accommodate population changes and demographic shifts reported in current Census surveys, the Commission strives to maximize the legal principle of "one person, one vote," consistent with the Voting Rights Act of 1965 and subsequent case laws.
The Commission also has a responsibility to maximize public participation in the process of redistricting in the City of Albany, and to ensure the Ward maps best represent protected groups and community of interests within the City. The Commission obtains public input on representation and boundary adjustments through public meetings, hearings and other community outreach. A finalized plan will be presented to the Common Council for their review and approval.
Friday, August 24, 2012
Legal Services for the Underserved: Referring Public Library Patrons to Local Legal Resources
Reference Services at the Albany Public Library is pleased to present the following free professional development workshop:
Thursday, September 20th, 2012
10:30 AM to 12:30 PM
Albany Public Library's 1st Floor Auditorium
161 Washington Avenue
Albany, NY 12210
In these tough economic times, public library staff who work the reference/information desk are finding themselves more frequently referring patrons who need legal assistance and/or wish to conduct legal research. The workshop's speakers will highlight the resources and services provided by three local libraries and two legal services organizations. There will be an opportunity for questions and discussion after the presentations. Participating organizations:
• Frances Bergan Law Library (Albany County Public Access Law Library) and the Supreme Court Library (Rensselaer County Public Access Law Library)
• The Schaffer Law Library of the Albany Law School
• The New York State Library
• The Legal Project of the Capital District Women's Bar Association
• The Legal Aid Society of Northeastern New York.
Continuing Ed Contact Hours: 2 Contact Hours; Certificate provided.
Coffee and light refreshment will be served.
There is some free parking in our lot behind the library at the Elk Street entrance; there is also long-term metered parking along Elk Street. Elk Street is one-way; access Elk via Swan or Hawk from Washington Avenue. CDTA stops at Washington and Lark (next door to or across the street from APL). Google Maps.
Paraprofessionals/library assistants and MLS/MSIS graduate students are also especially welcome!
Please RSVP to Deanna DiCarlo by September 14th.
dicarlod@albanypubliclibrary.org
(518) 427-4301
Thursday, September 20th, 2012
10:30 AM to 12:30 PM
Albany Public Library's 1st Floor Auditorium
161 Washington Avenue
Albany, NY 12210
In these tough economic times, public library staff who work the reference/information desk are finding themselves more frequently referring patrons who need legal assistance and/or wish to conduct legal research. The workshop's speakers will highlight the resources and services provided by three local libraries and two legal services organizations. There will be an opportunity for questions and discussion after the presentations. Participating organizations:
• Frances Bergan Law Library (Albany County Public Access Law Library) and the Supreme Court Library (Rensselaer County Public Access Law Library)
• The Schaffer Law Library of the Albany Law School
• The New York State Library
• The Legal Project of the Capital District Women's Bar Association
• The Legal Aid Society of Northeastern New York.
Continuing Ed Contact Hours: 2 Contact Hours; Certificate provided.
Coffee and light refreshment will be served.
There is some free parking in our lot behind the library at the Elk Street entrance; there is also long-term metered parking along Elk Street. Elk Street is one-way; access Elk via Swan or Hawk from Washington Avenue. CDTA stops at Washington and Lark (next door to or across the street from APL). Google Maps.
Paraprofessionals/library assistants and MLS/MSIS graduate students are also especially welcome!
Please RSVP to Deanna DiCarlo by September 14th.
dicarlod@albanypubliclibrary.org
(518) 427-4301
Wednesday, August 22, 2012
Naples Library Plundered
NAPLES, Italy — For months now, the alarm has been resounding throughout the insular and competitive world of antiquarian books: beware of volumes bearing the stamp of the storied Girolamini Library in Naples. They could be hot.
The library’s former director, Marino Massimo De Caro, was arrested in May, accused of systematically despoiling the library he had been charged with keeping safe, stealing books and selling them on the open market or directly to collectors. And sharp sleuthing on the part of a professor at Georgia State University in Atlanta has raised questions about Mr. De Caro and the sale of other, possibly forged, books.
More here.
The library’s former director, Marino Massimo De Caro, was arrested in May, accused of systematically despoiling the library he had been charged with keeping safe, stealing books and selling them on the open market or directly to collectors. And sharp sleuthing on the part of a professor at Georgia State University in Atlanta has raised questions about Mr. De Caro and the sale of other, possibly forged, books.
More here.
Tuesday, August 21, 2012
Libraries, Patrons, and E-books
According to Pew Research:
Some 12% of Americans ages 16 and older who read e-books say they have borrowed an e-book from a library in the past year.
Most e-book borrowers say libraries are very important to them and their families and they are heavy readers in all formats, including books they bought and books lent to them. E-book borrowers say they read an average (the mean number) of 29 books in the past year, compared with 23 books for readers who do not borrow e-books from a library. Perhaps more striking, the median (midpoint) figures for books reportedly read are 20 in the past year by e-book borrowers and 12 by non-borrowers.
Some 12% of Americans ages 16 and older who read e-books say they have borrowed an e-book from a library in the past year.
Most e-book borrowers say libraries are very important to them and their families and they are heavy readers in all formats, including books they bought and books lent to them. E-book borrowers say they read an average (the mean number) of 29 books in the past year, compared with 23 books for readers who do not borrow e-books from a library. Perhaps more striking, the median (midpoint) figures for books reportedly read are 20 in the past year by e-book borrowers and 12 by non-borrowers.
Monday, August 20, 2012
A Professional Assessment of Twilight Sparkle as a Librarian
From Neatorama:
In “The Return of Harmony,” the demon Discord threatens to destroy Equestria. Twilight Sparkle’s friends are picked off one by one, until she alone is left to find a means to defeat him. She immediately runs to her library and searches her collection for the answer. She finds inside one volume the mystical Elements of Harmony, which she uses to banish Discord.
It's a great metaphor for the value of libraries and librarians in an information age. The hero of the tale is Twilight Sparkle, the librarian of Ponyville and the protagonist of My Little Pony: Friendship Is Magic. She is undoubtedly intelligent, considerate and brave. But is she, from a professional’s point of view, is Twilight an effective librarian? What follows is an assessment of her in that capacity.
In “The Return of Harmony,” the demon Discord threatens to destroy Equestria. Twilight Sparkle’s friends are picked off one by one, until she alone is left to find a means to defeat him. She immediately runs to her library and searches her collection for the answer. She finds inside one volume the mystical Elements of Harmony, which she uses to banish Discord.
It's a great metaphor for the value of libraries and librarians in an information age. The hero of the tale is Twilight Sparkle, the librarian of Ponyville and the protagonist of My Little Pony: Friendship Is Magic. She is undoubtedly intelligent, considerate and brave. But is she, from a professional’s point of view, is Twilight an effective librarian? What follows is an assessment of her in that capacity.
Monday, July 30, 2012
Citizens’ Police Review Board vacancy
City of Albany Common Council
CALL FOR APPLICATIONS
Citizens’ Police Review Board
The Albany Common Council is seeking nominations of qualified residents of the City of Albany for the following position:
Title of Position:
Member, Citizens’ Police Review Board (CPRB)
Term of Appointment:
To fill a vacancy expiring 10/26/13
Appointees are eligible for reappointment at the end of their term to an additional term of three years.
Position Responsibilities/Duties:
The CPRB is an independent body established by the City of Albany in 2000 to improve communications between the Police Department and the Community, to increase police accountability and credibility with the public, and to create a complaint review process that is free from bias and informed of actual police practice. In addition to review and determination on completed investigations of complaints made by citizens against officers of the City of Albany Police Department for alleged misconduct, the nine member Board may make recommendations to the Common Council and the Mayor regarding police policies and practices relevant to the goals of community policing and the exercise of discretionary authority by police officers. Board members are appointed by the Mayor (4) and the Common Council (5). The Board is required to, among other things, undergo significant training, and engage in public outreach and education.
Members of the CPRB shall reside in the City of Albany and possess a reputation for fairness, integrity and responsibility and have demonstrated an active interest in public affairs and service. The Common Council and the Mayor shall endeavor to reflect community diversity in their appointments, including income level, race, ethnicity, age, gender, sexual orientation and experience and shall, in their appointments, solicit recommendations from the community. Officers, current employees of the City of Albany and the immediate relatives of officers and employees shall not be eligible for appointment.
Members shall be appointed for three-year terms. No members of the CPRB shall serve for a period which exceeds two consecutive terms. Completion of an orientation program concerning the goals, powers and procedures of the CPRB is required before a member may participate as a voting member. In addition, graduation from the Albany Police Department’s Citizen’s Police Academy within six months of the start of the member’s term is required. Members are also required to undergo continuing education on issues related to the interaction between civilians and police officers from the perspectives of both the citizen and the police officer.
The CPRB meets once per month and Board members are required to take responsibility in preparing cases for presentation. Board members also participate in community outreach efforts.
Additional information on the CPRB is available on http://www.albanylaw.edu/sub.php?navigation_id=1130 their web site maintained by the Albany Law School’s Government Law Center.
Statutory Authority:
The CPRB is established in accordance with Article XLIV of Part 33 of Chapter 42 of the Code of the City of Albany (sections 42-332 through 42-352). A copy is available on the CPRB web site (see above) or by contacting the Common Council’s office (see below).
Application Requirement:
Applicants are requested to submit a letter of intent describing qualifications and include a current resume to:
Cashawna Parker
Senior Legislative Aide
Albany Common Council – Room 206
City Hall
Albany, NY 12207
Tel: 434-5087
Fax: 434-5081
e-mail: parkerc@ci.albany.ny.us
Applicants will be interviewed by a selected committee of the Common Council prior to appointment.
Deadline for Applications: August 13, 2012
CALL FOR APPLICATIONS
Citizens’ Police Review Board
The Albany Common Council is seeking nominations of qualified residents of the City of Albany for the following position:
Title of Position:
Member, Citizens’ Police Review Board (CPRB)
Term of Appointment:
To fill a vacancy expiring 10/26/13
Appointees are eligible for reappointment at the end of their term to an additional term of three years.
Position Responsibilities/Duties:
The CPRB is an independent body established by the City of Albany in 2000 to improve communications between the Police Department and the Community, to increase police accountability and credibility with the public, and to create a complaint review process that is free from bias and informed of actual police practice. In addition to review and determination on completed investigations of complaints made by citizens against officers of the City of Albany Police Department for alleged misconduct, the nine member Board may make recommendations to the Common Council and the Mayor regarding police policies and practices relevant to the goals of community policing and the exercise of discretionary authority by police officers. Board members are appointed by the Mayor (4) and the Common Council (5). The Board is required to, among other things, undergo significant training, and engage in public outreach and education.
Members of the CPRB shall reside in the City of Albany and possess a reputation for fairness, integrity and responsibility and have demonstrated an active interest in public affairs and service. The Common Council and the Mayor shall endeavor to reflect community diversity in their appointments, including income level, race, ethnicity, age, gender, sexual orientation and experience and shall, in their appointments, solicit recommendations from the community. Officers, current employees of the City of Albany and the immediate relatives of officers and employees shall not be eligible for appointment.
Members shall be appointed for three-year terms. No members of the CPRB shall serve for a period which exceeds two consecutive terms. Completion of an orientation program concerning the goals, powers and procedures of the CPRB is required before a member may participate as a voting member. In addition, graduation from the Albany Police Department’s Citizen’s Police Academy within six months of the start of the member’s term is required. Members are also required to undergo continuing education on issues related to the interaction between civilians and police officers from the perspectives of both the citizen and the police officer.
The CPRB meets once per month and Board members are required to take responsibility in preparing cases for presentation. Board members also participate in community outreach efforts.
Additional information on the CPRB is available on http://www.albanylaw.edu/sub.php?navigation_id=1130 their web site maintained by the Albany Law School’s Government Law Center.
Statutory Authority:
The CPRB is established in accordance with Article XLIV of Part 33 of Chapter 42 of the Code of the City of Albany (sections 42-332 through 42-352). A copy is available on the CPRB web site (see above) or by contacting the Common Council’s office (see below).
Application Requirement:
Applicants are requested to submit a letter of intent describing qualifications and include a current resume to:
Cashawna Parker
Senior Legislative Aide
Albany Common Council – Room 206
City Hall
Albany, NY 12207
Tel: 434-5087
Fax: 434-5081
e-mail: parkerc@ci.albany.ny.us
Applicants will be interviewed by a selected committee of the Common Council prior to appointment.
Deadline for Applications: August 13, 2012
Calling all Hands to the Stephen and Harriet Myers Residence Work Party!
The Stephen and Harriet Myers Residence and associated URHPCR properties need
your help.
Join us to weed, mow, tend the Dr. Thomas Elkins garden, and continue working
on the UGR walking path begun by Summer Youth Employment teens.
When - Saturday, August 4 from 10am - 12noon
Where - Stephen and Harriet Myers Residence
194 Livingston Avenue, Albany 12210
Gloves and tools will be provided, but please bring your favorite tools if you
like
Refreshments will be provided
See you Saturday, August 4 from 10am-12noon!
your help.
Join us to weed, mow, tend the Dr. Thomas Elkins garden, and continue working
on the UGR walking path begun by Summer Youth Employment teens.
When - Saturday, August 4 from 10am - 12noon
Where - Stephen and Harriet Myers Residence
194 Livingston Avenue, Albany 12210
Gloves and tools will be provided, but please bring your favorite tools if you
like
Refreshments will be provided
See you Saturday, August 4 from 10am-12noon!
Wednesday, July 25, 2012
State Library Offers Training Webinars
Bernard A. Margolis, New York State Librarian and Assistant Commissioner for Libraries, is pleased to announce a series of free training webinars for JobNow, an online workforce development tool offered through the NOVELny Portal or through your local library.
JobNow is funded by federal ARRA funds through the State Library's Broadbandexpress@YourLibrary Project and is an online resource tool for job seekers that features the following services: live interview coaching, resume/cover letter assistance, and access to both statewide and nationwide job resources. It includes an Adult Learning Center that offers test preparation (including the GED and the U.S. Citizen Test), an expert writing lab, study tools, and a unique academic skills center featuring live, online tutors.
The following is a list of webinar dates and times, with a link to registration information for each session. Space is limited, but registrations will be accepted up to the day of each webinar. Registrants will receive an email confirmation and webinar information.
1) https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/221150457
Date: Tuesday, July 31, 2012
Time: 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM EDT
2) https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/240181097
Date: Thursday, August 2, 2012
Time: 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM EDT
3) https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/716368225
Date: Monday, August 6, 2012
Time: 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM EDT
4) https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/906106584
Date: Wednesday, August 8, 2012
Time: 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM EDT
5) https://www4.gotomeeting.com/join/161065151
Date: Tuesday, August 14, 2012
Time: 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM EDT
6) https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/453929256
Date: Thursday, August 16, 2012
Time: 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM EDT
7) https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/388558777
Date: Monday, August 20, 2012
Time: 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM EDT
8) https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/802799305
Date: Wednesday, August 22, 2012
Time: 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM EDT
9) https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/724441721
Date: Tuesday, August 28, 2012
Time: 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM EDT
10) https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/164954648
Date: Thursday, August 30, 2012
Time: 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM EDT
Computer System Requirements
PC-based attendees
Required: Windows® 7, Vista, XP or 2003 Server
Macintosh®-based attendees
Required: Mac OS® X 10.5 or newer
JobNow is funded by federal ARRA funds through the State Library's Broadbandexpress@YourLibrary Project and is an online resource tool for job seekers that features the following services: live interview coaching, resume/cover letter assistance, and access to both statewide and nationwide job resources. It includes an Adult Learning Center that offers test preparation (including the GED and the U.S. Citizen Test), an expert writing lab, study tools, and a unique academic skills center featuring live, online tutors.
The following is a list of webinar dates and times, with a link to registration information for each session. Space is limited, but registrations will be accepted up to the day of each webinar. Registrants will receive an email confirmation and webinar information.
1) https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/221150457
Date: Tuesday, July 31, 2012
Time: 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM EDT
2) https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/240181097
Date: Thursday, August 2, 2012
Time: 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM EDT
3) https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/716368225
Date: Monday, August 6, 2012
Time: 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM EDT
4) https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/906106584
Date: Wednesday, August 8, 2012
Time: 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM EDT
5) https://www4.gotomeeting.com/join/161065151
Date: Tuesday, August 14, 2012
Time: 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM EDT
6) https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/453929256
Date: Thursday, August 16, 2012
Time: 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM EDT
7) https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/388558777
Date: Monday, August 20, 2012
Time: 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM EDT
8) https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/802799305
Date: Wednesday, August 22, 2012
Time: 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM EDT
9) https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/724441721
Date: Tuesday, August 28, 2012
Time: 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM EDT
10) https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/164954648
Date: Thursday, August 30, 2012
Time: 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM EDT
Computer System Requirements
PC-based attendees
Required: Windows® 7, Vista, XP or 2003 Server
Macintosh®-based attendees
Required: Mac OS® X 10.5 or newer
Albany Schools' 2012 Summer Celebration July 28
You're invited to the City School District of Albany's 2012 Summer Celebration presented by ShopRite of Albany this Saturday, July 28, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Krank Park in the South End.
This second annual community event once again will include a celebrity softball game with radio personalities from JAMZ/96.3 -- a rematch of last year's 12-12 tie! The Summer Celebration also will include fun summer activities for the whole family, including a cookout, face-painting, a bouncy-bounce, games, the popular Latino NY snow-cone machine, information about Albany's public schools and community organizations, and more.
And there is Krank Park's popular spray park to beat the heat on a hot summer day.
Please join us this Saturday for the 2012 Summer Celebration!
This second annual community event once again will include a celebrity softball game with radio personalities from JAMZ/96.3 -- a rematch of last year's 12-12 tie! The Summer Celebration also will include fun summer activities for the whole family, including a cookout, face-painting, a bouncy-bounce, games, the popular Latino NY snow-cone machine, information about Albany's public schools and community organizations, and more.
And there is Krank Park's popular spray park to beat the heat on a hot summer day.
Please join us this Saturday for the 2012 Summer Celebration!
Tuesday, July 24, 2012
Albany schools make superintendent selection
From SNN:
The City School District of Albany Board of Education has selected Marguerite Vanden Wyngaard, Ph.D., to become the district’s next superintendent. The board voted Tuesday night to ask the New York State Department of Education to grant Dr. Vanden Wyngaard a School District Leader certificate that would allow her to serve in that capacity.
Dr. Vanden Wyngaard is deputy superintendent in the Paterson (N.J.) Public Schools. Although she currently does not hold a School District Leader certificate in New York, state education law allows the commissioner to grant a certificate to those “whose exceptional training and experience ... qualify such persons for the duties of a superintendent of schools.”
The board strongly believes Dr. Vanden Wyngaard meets those standards, President Dan Egan said. Visit the District News section to read more.
The City School District of Albany Board of Education has selected Marguerite Vanden Wyngaard, Ph.D., to become the district’s next superintendent. The board voted Tuesday night to ask the New York State Department of Education to grant Dr. Vanden Wyngaard a School District Leader certificate that would allow her to serve in that capacity.
Dr. Vanden Wyngaard is deputy superintendent in the Paterson (N.J.) Public Schools. Although she currently does not hold a School District Leader certificate in New York, state education law allows the commissioner to grant a certificate to those “whose exceptional training and experience ... qualify such persons for the duties of a superintendent of schools.”
The board strongly believes Dr. Vanden Wyngaard meets those standards, President Dan Egan said. Visit the District News section to read more.
Thursday, July 19, 2012
City School District of Albany’s Hall of Fame Class of 2012
A United States ambassador, the first African-American woman elected to the Albany Board of Education, an orthopedic surgeon and Albany High School’s only New York State Miss Basketball recipient are among the eight people selected for the City School District of Albany’s 2012 Hall of Fame.
The Class of 2012 will be inducted during ceremonies on Homecoming weekend in October. Visit the Hall of Fame section to read more about this year's inductees as well as past classes, and to find out how to nominate candidates for the Class of 2013.
The Class of 2012 will be inducted during ceremonies on Homecoming weekend in October. Visit the Hall of Fame section to read more about this year's inductees as well as past classes, and to find out how to nominate candidates for the Class of 2013.
Tuesday, July 17, 2012
Air quality alert in effect from 11 am to 11 PM EDT Tuesday in eastern NYS
From wunderground.com
The New York state department of environmental conservation has issued an air quality health advisory for the following counties...
Dutchess... Ulster... Columbia... Greene... Schoharie... Albany... Rensselaer... Saratoga... Schenectady... Washington... Fulton... Montgomery... southern Herkimer.
Air quality levels in outdoor air are predicted to be greater than an air quality index value of 100 for the pollutant of ozone. The air quality index... or aqi... was created as an easy way to correlate levels of different pollutants to one scale. The higher the aqi value, the greater the health concern.
When pollution levels are elevated... the New York state Department of Health recommends that individuals consider limiting strenuous outdoor physical activity to reduce the risk of adverse health effects. People who may be especially sensitive to the effects of elevated levels of pollutants include the very Young, and those with pre-existing respiratory problems such as asthma or heart disease. Those with symptoms should consider consulting their personal physician.
A toll free air quality hotline has been established so New York residents can stay informed on the air quality situation. The toll free number is: 1 800 535-1345.
The New York state department of environmental conservation has issued an air quality health advisory for the following counties...
Dutchess... Ulster... Columbia... Greene... Schoharie... Albany... Rensselaer... Saratoga... Schenectady... Washington... Fulton... Montgomery... southern Herkimer.
Air quality levels in outdoor air are predicted to be greater than an air quality index value of 100 for the pollutant of ozone. The air quality index... or aqi... was created as an easy way to correlate levels of different pollutants to one scale. The higher the aqi value, the greater the health concern.
When pollution levels are elevated... the New York state Department of Health recommends that individuals consider limiting strenuous outdoor physical activity to reduce the risk of adverse health effects. People who may be especially sensitive to the effects of elevated levels of pollutants include the very Young, and those with pre-existing respiratory problems such as asthma or heart disease. Those with symptoms should consider consulting their personal physician.
A toll free air quality hotline has been established so New York residents can stay informed on the air quality situation. The toll free number is: 1 800 535-1345.
Perfume that smells like a freshly printed book
Karl Lagerfeld teams with Wallpaper for scent Paper Passion: The scent of of 'freshly printed books'
'I am a paper freak. It's a physical passion," writes Chanel's Lagerfeld. "I cannot live without paper. Touching perfect paper has something sensuous about it."
'I am a paper freak. It's a physical passion," writes Chanel's Lagerfeld. "I cannot live without paper. Touching perfect paper has something sensuous about it."
Monday, July 16, 2012
Albany Public Library Board Swears in Trustees, Elects Officers
The Albany Public Library Board of Trustees has three new trustees and a slate of new officers.
Three new trustees, who were elected in May, were sworn into office at the July 10 meeting at the Howe Branch
More HERE.
Three new trustees, who were elected in May, were sworn into office at the July 10 meeting at the Howe Branch
More HERE.
NEW YORK STATE LIBRARY LAUNCHES Creating the Future WEBPAGE
State Librarian and Assistant Commissioner for Libraries Bernard A. Margolis and Chair of the Regents Advisory Council on Libraries Gerald Nichols announced today the launching of a new webpage focused on the implementation of Creating the Future: A 2020 Vision and Plan for Library Services in New York State.
“We invite the library community and other interested stakeholders to bookmark this new webpage and to help us implement this exciting new vision and statewide plan for library services,” said Nichols. “This plan sets a new course for the future and recognizes that, in spite of economic challenges, quality library service must be available to every child and every adult in New York.”
Information about implementation activities, events and strategies will be posted on the State Library’s new Creating the Future webpage and shared broadly with the library community and other stakeholders. There is a Latest News link to a new Creating the Future blog. The blog is intended to keep readers up-to-date on how library leaders and champions across New York State are going about implementing the sixty recommendations listed in Creating the Future. Readers will find out how to join Regents Advisory Council members Jill Hurst-Wahl, Gerald Nichols, John Hammond and others on LinkedIn to share and discuss implementation ideas and strategies.
Library leaders are encouraged to send information about upcoming planned events or discussions focused on the implementation of Creating the Future to Council Vice-Chair John Hammond (john@nnyln.org ). Events will be posted on the webpage. Library leaders are also encouraged to send ideas and suggestions for implementation strategies or action steps to John Hammond (john@nnyln.org) or Gerald Nichols (Gerald.Nichols@liu.edu).
The New York State Board of Regents accepted the new vision and plan as statewide policy for libraries at their April 2012 meeting. Members of the Board, the State Librarian and the Regents Advisory Council on Libraries will provide an opportunity for further discussion concerning the Plan and its implementation during the November 2012 New York Library Association Conference in Saratoga Springs. Questions about implementation or about Creating the Future may be directed to Gerald Nichols (Gerald.Nichols@liu.edu).
“We invite the library community and other interested stakeholders to bookmark this new webpage and to help us implement this exciting new vision and statewide plan for library services,” said Nichols. “This plan sets a new course for the future and recognizes that, in spite of economic challenges, quality library service must be available to every child and every adult in New York.”
Information about implementation activities, events and strategies will be posted on the State Library’s new Creating the Future webpage and shared broadly with the library community and other stakeholders. There is a Latest News link to a new Creating the Future blog. The blog is intended to keep readers up-to-date on how library leaders and champions across New York State are going about implementing the sixty recommendations listed in Creating the Future. Readers will find out how to join Regents Advisory Council members Jill Hurst-Wahl, Gerald Nichols, John Hammond and others on LinkedIn to share and discuss implementation ideas and strategies.
Library leaders are encouraged to send information about upcoming planned events or discussions focused on the implementation of Creating the Future to Council Vice-Chair John Hammond (john@nnyln.org ). Events will be posted on the webpage. Library leaders are also encouraged to send ideas and suggestions for implementation strategies or action steps to John Hammond (john@nnyln.org) or Gerald Nichols (Gerald.Nichols@liu.edu).
The New York State Board of Regents accepted the new vision and plan as statewide policy for libraries at their April 2012 meeting. Members of the Board, the State Librarian and the Regents Advisory Council on Libraries will provide an opportunity for further discussion concerning the Plan and its implementation during the November 2012 New York Library Association Conference in Saratoga Springs. Questions about implementation or about Creating the Future may be directed to Gerald Nichols (Gerald.Nichols@liu.edu).
Thursday, July 12, 2012
IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES FOR Creating the Future: A 2020 Vision and Plan for Library Services in New York State.
State Librarian and Assistant Commissioner for Libraries Bernard A. Margolis and Chair of the Regents Advisory Council on Libraries Gerald Nichols encourage the library community and other interested stakeholders to discuss and recommend implementation strategies for Creating the Future: A 2020 Vision and Plan for Library Services in New York State.
“We invite the library community and other interested stakeholders to help us implement this exciting new vision and statewide plan for library services,” said Nichols. “This plan sets a new course for the future and recognizes that, in spite of economic challenges, quality library service must be available to every child and every adult in New York.”
The New York State Board of Regents accepted the new plan as statewide policy for libraries at their April 2012 meeting. Members of the Board, the State Librarian and the Regents Advisory Council on Libraries will provide an opportunity for further discussion concerning the Plan and its implementation during the November New York Library Association Conference in Saratoga Springs. The Council would like to incorporate implementation ideas from the library community and others.
“The Board of Regents has directed me to work with the Council and the library community to develop an implementation strategy and detailed action plan,” said Margolis. “The strategy will identify which of the recommendations will be implemented through Regents action, which may require changes to legislation and some other type of action by the State Library, the library community and/or other key stakeholders.”
“Library leaders, associations and other groups are scheduling various summer and fall regional and statewide discussions focused on the plan and strategies for implementation. My hope is that these discussions will occur in every corner of the state,” said Nichols. “For example, the New York Alliance of Library Systems will be focusing on the Plan’s recommendations concerning library systems during its annual retreat in East Greenbush on August 17th, and the NY3Rs Association is convening a statewide summit concerning academic and research library information infrastructure in Saratoga Springs in September.
Library leaders are encouraged to send information about upcoming planned events or discussions focused on the implementation of “Creating the Future” to Council Vice-Chair John Hammond (john@nnyln.org). Information about implementation activities and events will be posted on a new “Creating the Future” webpage on the State Library’s website and shared broadly with the library community and other stakeholders. Library leaders are also encouraged to send resulting ideas and suggestions for implementation strategies or action steps to John Hammond (john@nnyln.org) or Gerald Nichols (Gerald.Nichols@liu.edu).
Questions about implementation or about “Creating the Future” may be directed to Gerald Nichols (Gerald.Nichols@liu.edu).
“We invite the library community and other interested stakeholders to help us implement this exciting new vision and statewide plan for library services,” said Nichols. “This plan sets a new course for the future and recognizes that, in spite of economic challenges, quality library service must be available to every child and every adult in New York.”
The New York State Board of Regents accepted the new plan as statewide policy for libraries at their April 2012 meeting. Members of the Board, the State Librarian and the Regents Advisory Council on Libraries will provide an opportunity for further discussion concerning the Plan and its implementation during the November New York Library Association Conference in Saratoga Springs. The Council would like to incorporate implementation ideas from the library community and others.
“The Board of Regents has directed me to work with the Council and the library community to develop an implementation strategy and detailed action plan,” said Margolis. “The strategy will identify which of the recommendations will be implemented through Regents action, which may require changes to legislation and some other type of action by the State Library, the library community and/or other key stakeholders.”
“Library leaders, associations and other groups are scheduling various summer and fall regional and statewide discussions focused on the plan and strategies for implementation. My hope is that these discussions will occur in every corner of the state,” said Nichols. “For example, the New York Alliance of Library Systems will be focusing on the Plan’s recommendations concerning library systems during its annual retreat in East Greenbush on August 17th, and the NY3Rs Association is convening a statewide summit concerning academic and research library information infrastructure in Saratoga Springs in September.
Library leaders are encouraged to send information about upcoming planned events or discussions focused on the implementation of “Creating the Future” to Council Vice-Chair John Hammond (john@nnyln.org). Information about implementation activities and events will be posted on a new “Creating the Future” webpage on the State Library’s website and shared broadly with the library community and other stakeholders. Library leaders are also encouraged to send resulting ideas and suggestions for implementation strategies or action steps to John Hammond (john@nnyln.org) or Gerald Nichols (Gerald.Nichols@liu.edu).
Questions about implementation or about “Creating the Future” may be directed to Gerald Nichols (Gerald.Nichols@liu.edu).
Wednesday, July 11, 2012
The Libraryization of a Walmart
Via PSFK
The International Interior Design Association recently selected the McAllen Public Library as the winner of their 2012 Library Interior Design Competition. The city inherited the former Wal-Mart after the retailer closed the store and abandoned it. The decision was made to reuse the structure and create a new main library within. Meyer, Scherer & Rockcastle, Ltd. of Minneapolis were selected to design the interior of the building which the city required to be functional, flexible and affordable to construct. For a library, the existing 124,500 square foot space is huge. That’s the size of about 2 1/2 football fields making the new library the largest single-story location in the US.
The International Interior Design Association recently selected the McAllen Public Library as the winner of their 2012 Library Interior Design Competition. The city inherited the former Wal-Mart after the retailer closed the store and abandoned it. The decision was made to reuse the structure and create a new main library within. Meyer, Scherer & Rockcastle, Ltd. of Minneapolis were selected to design the interior of the building which the city required to be functional, flexible and affordable to construct. For a library, the existing 124,500 square foot space is huge. That’s the size of about 2 1/2 football fields making the new library the largest single-story location in the US.
Tuesday, July 10, 2012
NY3Rs Newsletter
The NY 3Rs Association, Inc. is pleased to announce the publication of the Association’s new monthly email newsletter, Reference, Research, Resources. This newsletter will highlight the latest news about how NY 3Rs is working to help the libraries of New York State improve their services through collaboration and education.
The first issue of the newsletter is now available.
The first issue of the newsletter is now available.
Monday, July 09, 2012
Start a book discussion group for children at your library
“Summer Reading at New York Libraries” has been expanding their partnership with the New York Council for the Humanities to include exciting new training opportunities for librarians. The first opportunity, which was held in June and announced on the blog Summer Reading News, trained 70 librarians throughout the state on how to start and maintain a quality Summer Reading book discussion group.
Presented and created by Erika Halstead from the New York Council for the Humanities, the webinar focused on training librarians to develop a “Big Idea” for discussion and start activities that trigger further discussions in the book group. Librarians walked away from the webinar with definite insight and enthusiasm for starting a book discussion group or adding to an existing program.
Here are visuals and text from the presentation. You can click through with the arrows or use the "More" tab to view it in full screen.
The link is also available on the New York State Library Development website, along with other helpful training information.
Presented and created by Erika Halstead from the New York Council for the Humanities, the webinar focused on training librarians to develop a “Big Idea” for discussion and start activities that trigger further discussions in the book group. Librarians walked away from the webinar with definite insight and enthusiasm for starting a book discussion group or adding to an existing program.
Here are visuals and text from the presentation. You can click through with the arrows or use the "More" tab to view it in full screen.
The link is also available on the New York State Library Development website, along with other helpful training information.
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