Library Legislative Day Monday, March 31!

The Western Massachusetts Library Advocates have hired a bus to take library supporters to the State House for Legislative Day.  This gives you a chance to meet with your legislators, network with colleagues from all types of libraries and participate in the Mass. School Library Association Bookmarks awards.  Our own Western Mass Senator Stan Rosenberg will be honored with an Advocacy Award. 

Talking points for the Legislative Agenda will be handed out on the bus or we can get you one ahead of time if you like.

Join us on the bus to Boston for the very reasonable cost of $20.00 per person.  People coming from Berkshire County who carpool in cars holding 2 or more people will be reimbursed for travel to West Springfield.

 The pick-up spots are:

            7:30 am          Table &Vine Liquors, West Springfield

            8:15 am           Palmer Public Library

            9:00 am           Auburn Public Library

The bus will leave Boston at 2:30 pm and will arrive in West Springfield by 4:30 pm.  The group discount cost is still only $20 per person.  This price is a great deal, less than the cost of parking in a Boston garage for five hours. Complete the form below and mail with your check to: WMLA, PO Box 609, So. Deerfield, MA  01373 ~or~ send through delivery to MLS/ Whately Attn: WMLA .  Please include the memo “Legislative Bus” on your check.

*************************************

Your name:                                                         Your library:

Cell phone if available:                                        Email (WMLA use only):

Your pick up spot:
 
amount enclosed:
¨ I want to be a member of WMLA!  Enclosed is my additional $15 check for membership.

Any questions?  Give Lynn Coakley a call.  Coordinator of Technical Services, Library, Springfield Technical Community College, One Armory Square, Springfield, MA  01102; 413.755.4565.

See Lynn’s email (Sent to the WMRLS list) on 2/7/2014 with the attached flyer for an easy to print form. 

Statewide Discovery Platform Survey – Deadline 1/24/2014

The Discovery Solution Working Group, working under the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners, is trying to find a discovery solution that Massachusetts library users and residents can use to easily find and obtain the wide array of resources and formats available through the state’s libraries. It is intended to include; the statewide eBook platform, statewide database subscriptions, the Digital Commonwealth, plus other statewide resources as added.

A discovery solution offers a single unified search tool to retrieve as many relevant, library-vetted resources as are available to the user. It reduces and streamlines the amount of searching users would have to do through multiple, separate interfaces. It usually presents facets or other features to narrow the results, and provides access to multiple types of materials, such as print, media, and online resources. A discovery platform can be independent of the library’s local integrated library system.

Answers to this survey will identify further resources and needs of libraries of the Commonwealth, to help us find the most appropriate platform available.  We hope that libraries of all types and sizes will complete the survey.

Here is a link to the survey:
https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/ma-discovery

LEGISLATIVE BREAKFASTS NEWS

Palmer Breakfast Cancelled

The February 28 breakfast in Palmer scheduled for Senator Brewer's district has been cancelled.

The Western Mass. Library Advocates suggests that anyone who would like show their support for libraries in Senator Brewer’s district attend the breakfast at the Charlton Public Library on March 7 at 8:00 am.  To register, please send your rsvp to Director Cheryl Hansen at chansen@cwmars.org.

Sponsors Still Needed

The Western Massachusetts Library Advocates (WMLA) supports all of the legislative breakfast efforts in western Massachusetts.  WMLA gives a stipend to each host library to help offset the cost of providing breakfasts.  There is no charge to those attending.

WMLA counts on library supporters, trustees and Friends groups to help fund the breakfasts. Information about how to contribute is posted below.

Thank you for your support for libraries and for attending the breakfasts to speak out for libraries!

Enclosed is a contribution to support the Western Massachusetts Library Legislative Breakfasts

_______$25.00                   ________$50.00                 ________$100.00              ________Other

Name:

Library:

Address:

Telephone:__________________________  Email:______________________________

Make Checks Payable to:  Western Mass Library Advocates    PO Box 609, South Deerfield, MA 01373-0609

 

Support Needed for LIBRARY LEGISLATIVE BREAKFASTS 2014

The twentieth annual series of library legislative breakfasts begin this month.   The breakfasts are free to all who attend as advocacy continues to be a priority for librarians in Massachusetts.  Sponsorship helps support the breakfasts and full participation.  We hope trustees, friends groups and individuals will contribute to this effort.  Please support our most important advocacy effort.    

 

To donate to support the Pioneer Valley Legislative Breakfasts:

 

_______$25.00                   ________$50.00                 ________$100.00             ________Other

 

Name:

 

Library:

 

Address:

 

Telephone:__________________________  Email:______________________________

Make checks payable to:  Western Mass Library Advocates    PO Box 609, South Deerfield, MA 01373-0609

 

To donate to support the Berkshire Legislative Breakfast:

 

_______$25.00                   ________$50.00                 ________$100.00             ________Other

Name:

Library:

Address:

Telephone:__________________________  Email:______________________________

Make checks payable to:  Berkshire Legislative Breakfast  c/o Pat McLeod, Milne Public Library, 1095 Main Street, Williamstown MA 01267

 

Full descriptions of the Breakfasts, plus registration information and directions are available at http://mla.memberlodge.org/breakfasts2014

                                     Thanks to the Mass. Library Association for hosting the information this year.

Whately Office Update

The Massachusetts Library System (MLS) has executed a purchase and sale agreement for their Whatley facility.  Closing is planned for late January to allow for inspection needs and other contingencies.  The USDA is reviewing documentation to consider the short sale.

MLS will have a four-month short-term lease after the closing.  Western Mass. MLS staff visited the machine shop operated by the buyers.  After the visit staff members expressed a preference to find a new location.  The chief reasons are that staff would be cramped sharing the existing space with the new owners and there is resistance to working and hosting members in an environment with chemicals, oils, and machine shop odors.

The MLS has been working with their realtor to seek an alternate location in the I-91 corridor.   They are not closing the door on a longer-term lease in the Whately facility until they find a suitable location.

Address any questions to Greg Pronevitz, Mass. Library System, Executive Director,

greg@masslibsystem.org, www.MassLibSystem.org  508-357-2121 x303  |  866-627-7228 x303 (Mass.)

LIBRARY LEGISLATIVE BREAKFASTS 2014 - Mass Libraries are working to end the Digital Lockout

The twentieth annual series of library legislative breakfasts is coming up soon.   As advocacy continues to be a solid impetus for librarians in Massachusetts, this event has grown in importance and attendance.  The Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners’ (MBLC) Legislative Agenda for FY 2015 is available here.  Supplementary information links are available here.  



The MBLC works toward equity of access to library services by creating a level playing field so that residents of all ages across the Commonwealth have access to essential library collections, services, facilities and electronic content regardless of where they live. Through libraries, residents find information and knowledge to improve their lives, to support education, to build their communities and to sustain our democracy.

No library can meet the demands of its users with local resources alone. That’s why state funded programs are so critical to the provision of library services. Citizens of Massachusetts are using libraries more than ever, and they rely on the links between libraries provided through state funding administered by the MBLC. Funding cuts since 2001 have placed immense burdens on local library budgets at a time when demand for services is rising.

Informing your legislators of your concerns and additional funding needs this year will allow Massachusetts libraries to meet today’s challenges.  Please show your support by mailing a contribution and by marking the date of your complimentary breakfast on your calendar.  Every library school, public, academic and special in every town needs a voice to be heard by our Western Mass. legislators.

Western Mass Library Legislative Breakfasts Schedule ~ 2014

Full descriptions of the Breakfasts, plus registration information and directions are available at http://mla.memberlodge.org/breakfasts2014

Thanks to the Mass. Library Association for hosting the information this year.

Senator James Welch

Friday, January 17, 2014 ~ 7:30 a.m. ~ Springfield Technical Community College Library  Bldg 27
Host: Lynn Coakley – Coordinator of Technical Services
Registration email:  Lcoakley@stcc.edu

Senator Benjamin Downing

Friday, January 24, 2014 ~ 8:00 a.m. ~ Milne Library, Williamstown
Host: Pat McLeod, Library Director    
Registration email:  l.kaufmann@mcla.edu

Senator Stan Rosenberg
Friday,  February 7, 2014 ~ 7:30:00 a.m. ~ Jones Library, Amherst
Host: Sharon Sharry, Library Director
Registration email:  sharrys@joneslibrary.org

Senator Don Humason

Friday, February 21, 2014 ~ 9:00 a.m. ~ Holyoke Public Library
Host: Marian Pagan, Library Director
Registration email: library@holyoke.org

Senator Gale Candaras

Friday, February 28, 2014 ~ 8:30 a.m. ~ Storrs Library, Longmeadow
Host: Karen Kappenman, Library Director
Registration email: kkappenman@longmeadow.org

Senator Stephen Brewer

Friday, February 28, 2014 ~ 7:30 a.m.~ Palmer Public Library
Host:  Dorene Miller, Library Director
Registration email:  director@palmer.lib.ma.us


Find the names of your state Senator and Representative(s) by visiting the Massachusetts Library Association - Elected Officials website

Donations to support the breakfasts are welcome.  There is no charge on the days of the events to attendees.  If you would like to contribute:

To donate to support the Pioneer Valley Legislative Breakfasts

_______$25.00                   ________$50.00                 ________$100.00              ________Other

Name:

Library:

Address:

Telephone:__________________________  Email:______________________________

Check Payable to:  Western Mass Library Advocates    PO Box 609, South Deerfield, MA 01373-0609

To donate to support the Berkshire Legislative Breakfast

_______$25.00                   ________$50.00                 ________$100.00              ________Other

Name:

Library:

Address:

Telephone:__________________________  Email:______________________________

Check Payable to:  Berkshire Legislative Breakfast  c/o Pat McLeod, Milne Public Library, 1095 Main Street, Williamstown MA 01267

   

Smartphone Guide Makes Touring Boston’s Beacon Hill Easy for Everyone

The Boston Women’s Heritage Trail is on the move again – this time with a smartphone app to guide your steps through the history of Beacon Hill’s illustrious ladies.  Covering the period before and after the Civil War and continuing in the nineteenth century, sites include women writers and artists who used their talents to support social movements ranging from anti-slavery to suffrage.  Follow the stories of African American women and the first women doctors and professional nurses, while meandering through cobblestone streets and observing charming brick homes.

The app is available on iPhones, Androids and any smartphone with a full internet browser.  Visitors can simply go to tour website at Beaconhill.BWHT.org.

The app was developed by TourSphere, a Boston-based mobile app builder.  TourSphere is a leader in the museum technology field and has won several awards for their work with museums and historic sites.

Founded in 1989 by a group of Boston Public School teachers, librarians and their creative students, the Boston Women’s Heritage Trail’s mission is to bring to life the enriching history of Boston’s women – the often overlooked patriots, reformers, abolitionists, suffragists, artists and writers.  Through a guidebook, public walking tours and educational offerings, the Trail continues to keep women enmeshed in the fabric of the “city upon a hill.”  Visit the BWHT website at bwht.org.

Boston Women’s Heritage Trail

c/o Boston Educational Development Foundation
26 Court Street
Boston, MA 02108

BWHT contact

Katherine Dibble, 617-327-7851   kkdibble@gmail.com

Congratulations Granby and Holyoke!!!

November was a banner month for western Massachusetts libraries.  The Granby Free Public Library dedicated their new building on November 16.  The Holyoke Public Library unveiled their new addition on November 22.  The residents of both of those communities have much to be thankful for. 

Both libraries have vastly increased their service areas with meeting rooms, areas for children, YA’s, and computer rooms.  Work and delivery areas and circulation points are much more usable, and both libraries have accessible buildings and convenient parking. 

The celebrations were perfect for each community and were very well attended.  Among the legislators attending:  Candaras and Story (Granby), Congressman Neal, retired Congressman Olver, Senator Humason, Representative Vega (Holyoke).  MBLC staff were out in force to celebrate these occasions as were Commissioners (Quinn, Resnick – Granby)(Kronholm, Murphy, Resnick – Holyoke.)

Please take the opportunity to visit both new libraries.

Granby

 

Holyoke – Library in a Park

Congratulations, Sue SanSoucie

Library trustees, staff and friends held a public farewell for retiring Montague Public Libraries Director Susan SanSoucie on Wednesday, October 23, 2013.  The event was very well attended by the community and the Western Massachusetts Library Advocates (WMLA) Board and membership.  In addition to her 30 years of service to the Montague Libraries, Sue has been an active member of the Western Region and is currently the Treasurer of WMLA.

“Sue has developed a library system that provides well for the needs of all the town. She has also maintained a great relationship with patrons, staff, town employees and especially with others in the Massachusetts library community. Her leadership extends beyond the town and puts Montague on the map as a town supportive of the need for libraries,” trustee Veronica Phaneuf said in a press statement.

Sue’s service to libraries has been exemplary, and we don’t expect that service to decline just because she has more time for her personal life.  Everyone enjoyed the celebration, praise from library users and colleagues and great food.  In addition to Sue’s fans in the photographs, other librarians attending included Christine Berquist, Janet Moulding, and Commissioner Jan Resnick, Even the Carnegie moose was decorated for the event.  Sue's last day as Director was Halloween.  Congratulations and best wishes, Sue.  WMLA Board meeting in two weeks. 

Western Massachusetts Library Advocates - Board of Directors – 2014

At the fall meeting on October 16, the Western Massachusetts Library Advocates (WMLA) elected the following slate of officers and board members.  If you are interested in volunteering your support to WMLA, we would be honored to have you.  Please contact any member of the Board to volunteer.

President

Judith Clini

Agawam Pubic Library

 Vice President/President Elect

Vacant

Treasurer

Susan A. SanSoucie
Montague Public Libraries – Soon to be retired

Clerk

Bonnie Isman
Amherst, Jones Library – Retired

Past President

Chris Lindquist
Wellesley Free Library

Members at Large

Betty Johnson
Griswold Memorial Library, Colrain

John Ramsay

Springfield City Library

Jan Resnick

Commissioner, MBLC - formerly WMRLS staff

Cher Collins (new)

Westfield Athenaeum

Eliza Langhans (new)

Hatfield Public Library

Mary Anne Antonelis (new)

M.N. Spear Memorial Library, Shutesbury

Dan Paquette (new)

Learning Commons, UMASS Amherst

WMLA Fall Meeting 2013

Holyoke Public Library 2013

The Western Massachusetts Library Advocates (WMLA) held their fall meeting on October 16, 2013, at the newly renovated and expanded Holyoke Public Library.  36 members signed in; Representing Steve Kulik, his aide Paul Dunphy. 

Keynote:  The keynote speaker was Steve Spohn, previously an independent consultant and now the new Resource Sharing Director for the Massachusetts Library System (MLS).  Steve described the planning work he did for Springfield City Library in 2012-13, the data he used to support recommendations for change, and how their strategic plan to sustain library services for the long term was implemented successfully. 

Since 2004, Springfield City Library’s budget had been cut by 15% without closing any of their 10 branches.  It had reached the point where some branches were open only 12 days a month.  Steve’s report recommended closing four branches. The shock value of his report resulted in anger, denial, and, finally, changes in attitudes.  Springfield’s Mayor became an advocate for the Library and allocated $500,000 in new funding for FY 2014. Director Molly Fogarty announced they are hiring 17 new staff members. Library programming has been ‘re-packaged’ under five easy to understand themes: early literacy, workforce development, civic engagement, after-school activities, and lifelong learning.  Steve’s take-away points: Don’t stop with a printed plan.  Make structural and procedural changes. Get someone else (like a consultant) to say unpopular things. 

More on the Springfield success story and the ‘Re: think Springfield City Library Project’ slide show is available at http://www.springfieldlibrary.org/board.html.

Business Meeting:  There are 82 current members of WMLA. A new Board of Directors was elected.  Within WMLA’s regular business, Greg Pronevitz, MLS Executive Director, encouraged people to attend the MLS Annual Meeting on November 4 and congratulated Margo Malachowski who will take over as President of the MLS Executive Board. He also thanked John Ramsay for spearheading the idea of libraries in various parts of the state cooperatively licensing access to newspapers for their service area.  

Greg announced that MLS has entered into negotiations with a small business from Conway to sell the MLS-Whately building.  He reviewed the history of attempting to rent part of the building. He wants to lease back MLS’ current office space while they search for a new location.  Greg said they would use the results of last years’ WMLA survey as criteria, namely a new location between Route 2 and the Mass Pike along I-91.  No timetable for the sale was given.

Judy Clini reviewed some of WMLA’s work in the past year, including the author program with Matthew Pearl (2013 Massachusetts Book Award Winner for The Technologists), the distribution of Summer Reading Club prizes from western Massachusetts attractions, and the recent van tour of five small libraries. 
 

John Ramsay reported on the NewsBank Project which restores access to western Massachusetts newspapers for all libraries in Hampden, Hampshire, Franklin and Berkshire counties. Close to 30 libraries are contributing to pay for this license.  Additional funding is provided through grants from WMLA and MLS. 

The meeting was followed by a tour of the still under construction Holyoke Public Library led by Director Maria Pagan.  The dramatic new and expanded space will open at the end of the month.  Congratulations to Maria, her staff and trustees and the residents of Holyoke.  Dedication of the new facility is expected to occur on November 22.

WMLA Fall/Annual Meeting

The Annual Meeting of the Western Massachusetts Library Advocates (WMLA) will be at the beautiful new Holyoke Public Library from 10:00 to 1:00 on October 16th. Come and meet Steve Spohn, the new Resource Sharing Director at the Massachusetts Library System (MLS). Steve will speak on "selling" your library to your community and how to align services with actual needs via data.  He and Greg Pronevitz, Executive Director of MLS, will also describe the new ebook platform that is getting underway  and resource sharing in general.  In addition, join us in a discussion of WMLA’s legislative priorities for the upcoming year.  A tour the newly renovated and expanded Holyoke Public Library will be conducted at the end of the meeting. 

For a preview of the tour, take a look at this photo album.

 

Registration opens at 9:30.  Hope to see you all there!