Author Archives: cbecker53

Praise for Newtown Public Library

Posted on December 18, 2012 by cbecker53

My Sunday post was really just a moment of silence for Newtown, with a brief mention of what public libraries might do to offer assistance to those trying to cope with the tragedy. Today I am in awe of the … Continue reading →

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A Moment of Silence for Newtown

Posted on December 16, 2012 by cbecker53

After Friday’s horrific events, I could write about how libraries can have a role in helping people, especially young people cope with the tragedy.  Here’s a link Allen County Public Library (Indiana)’s list of resources on “Talking with Kids and … Continue reading →

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Make Social Media a Holiday Gift to Your Library

Posted on December 14, 2012 by cbecker53

David Lee King asks (and answers) “Are efforts to use social media worth it? Indeed, they are. I see many reasons for libraries—or practically any other organization—to use these tools.” No, not just a Facebook page you post to occasionally.  … Continue reading →

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Are you a Collaborative Leader?

Posted on December 12, 2012 by cbecker53

And if not, why not?!  (And don’t tell me you’re not in a leadership position, either.  There is such a thing as leading from within, you know.) Anyway, be sure to check out 12 Things Collaborative Leaders Do by Jessie … Continue reading →

Posted in Communication, Decision-making, Leadership, Management | Tagged , , | 1 Comment

Are Guys Using Your Public Library?

Posted on December 10, 2012 by cbecker53

Do you struggle to bring boys into the library and get them excited about libraries and books?  You may find helpful info in the American Libraries article Connect Guys With Books. It is the story of how the New Albany–Floyd … Continue reading →

Posted in Books, Boys, Children's Literature, Library in Community, Library Partnerships, Library Programs, Library Services, Men, Public Libraries, Reading | Tagged , , , , , , | 2 Comments

Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Solstice. . . ??

Posted on December 7, 2012 by cbecker53

So it’s December.  In Wisconsin.  Christmas decorations are everywhere.  Christmas music is everywhere.  In an effort to honor diversity, respect those of different religions (including those with no religion), and remain true to its status as a governmental entity, what … Continue reading →

Posted in Public Libraries | Tagged , , , , , , | 1 Comment

Being Strategic Without Stalling

Posted on December 5, 2012 by cbecker53

As a huge proponent of strategic planning for public libraries (see here, here, and here) I often struggle with finding the balance between being strategic while allowing for flexibility.  It is important to follow your strategic plan, and not fall … Continue reading →

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Marketing for Libraries

Posted on December 3, 2012 by cbecker53

Marketing is more than “advertising” programs and other things happening at your library, and a marketing plan is not something you do when you feel like you’ve got everything else done.  It is not (or should not be) and afterthought! … Continue reading →

Posted in Management, Marketing, Public Libraries, Strategic Planning | Tagged , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Can you Keep “Office Politics” out of Your Library?

Posted on November 30, 2012 by cbecker53

The topic of politics has dominated our world, our minds, our news outlets this year.   No matter how invested in the outcome, most of us are tired of it. Office politics is different, of course, but most of us are … Continue reading →

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Library Trustees–an Important Asset

Posted on November 28, 2012 by cbecker53

I believe that it is true that members of a public library board, sometimes called trustees, can be the very best tool that library has.  I also believe it is imperative to educate them so that they can be as … Continue reading →

Posted in Advocacy, Library Boards, Library Funding, Library Trustees, Public Libraries | Tagged , , , , | Leave a comment