Author Archives: cbecker53

Diversity is the Spice of Libraries

Posted on November 1, 2012 by cbecker53

A recent Public Libraries article ties in with my last post. “Meeting the Needs of Diverse Communities” offers suggestions and examples for addressing the challenges of serving the ever more diverse communities that libraries serve. I always say, “Can’t we … Continue reading →

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“R-E-S-P-E-C-T!” Sing it, Aretha!

Posted on October 30, 2012 by cbecker53

Several things prompt me to write this post: The upcoming election, all the campaign ads and press touting candidates, and the lack of respect from candidates toward their opponents. Learning about a series of programs at the Hedberg Public Library … Continue reading →

Posted in Customer Service, Hiring, Library Programs, Persons with Disabilities, Public Libraries, Selection | Tagged , , , , , | Leave a comment

The Benefits of Art

Posted on October 25, 2012 by cbecker53

So here’s an interesting fundraising idea:  “The Library Lovers’ Art Auction.” I dearly wish libraries did not have to resort to fundraisers.  And when they do, that the funds raised could be for capital campaigns, for buildings, and for “frills.”  … Continue reading →

Posted in Fundraising, Library in Community, Library Partnerships, Public Libraries | Tagged , , , | 1 Comment

Are You Now, Or Have You Ever Been. . .

Posted on October 23, 2012 by cbecker53

Are you, or have you ever been, a bad boss?  Many of us have been, at one time or another, especially when first starting out.  But here’s the good news: It doesn’t have to be that way.  You can change. … Continue reading →

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Greetings!

Posted on October 18, 2012 by cbecker53

I recently learned that the Mount Laurel Library (NJ) has had staff positions called “Greeter” since 2005 or so.  If I heard about this at the time, I’d forgotten until Retiring Guy drew my attention to it. How great is … Continue reading →

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Planning: Your Map to the Future

Posted on October 16, 2012 by cbecker53

Does your library have a strategic plan?  Many of you are probably saying “Well, no. . .  I know we probably should, but I don’t have time.  We have enough to do just keeping the doors open and waiting on … Continue reading →

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Breaking up Doesn’t Have to Be So Hard to Do

Posted on October 12, 2012 by cbecker53

I recently blogged about the hiring process.  Today’s post takes a look at one of the opposite ends of the spectrum.  No, not firing, but that moment when a valued employee moves to a new position.   Actually, if you do … Continue reading →

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A Perfect Marriage: Libraries and Voter Info

Posted on October 10, 2012 by cbecker53

It’s October 10, and the fact that Election Day is November 6 is much on my mind. One of the most important things libraries can do is inform citizens about their important right and duty: voting.   There are many ways … Continue reading →

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“Getting to Know You. . . ”

Posted on October 8, 2012 by cbecker53

  Here’s some simple tips from Leadership Freak about gaining influence over those you lead. Be humble. Know yourself and acknowledge your weaknesses. “The surprising truth is humble leaders gain influence because they know, understand, and appreciate others.” Leadership is … Continue reading →

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Bringing the Library to Your Home!

Posted on October 5, 2012 by cbecker53

I spent last week in Minnesota with my mother and sister; much of the week was actually spent in the hospital in Rochester, because my 91-year-old mother had some kind of incident, probably a very tiny stroke or seizure.  She … Continue reading →

Posted in Customer Service, Elderly, Library in Community, Persons with Disabilities, Public Libraries | Tagged , , , | 1 Comment