librarytwopointzero

Helibtech update

2011-12-06T23:29:00.002+01:00

As mentioned previously, I've joined Helibtech. As mentioned previously I said I would include the twitter hashtag here. Also the editor can be found here to.

Chrismash.....Andrew Preater style

2011-12-06T23:20:00.002+01:00

Although I didn't make the chrismash event last saturday (mainly because I rarely keep up to date with my RSS feeds or twitter). Anyhow, I had hoped to go as a person I work with Andrew Preater discussing Towards ethnographies of the next-gen catalogue user. Anyway here is a link to the talk. Sorry I missed it.

Helibtech meeting at Sconul

2011-12-01T10:50:00.003+01:00

Yesterday, I went to an Helibtech meeting at SCONUL. Helibtech:-

aim of HELibTech is to provide a starting point for anyone interested in library technology in Higher Education. Its particular focus is UK but many of the issues will be relevant elsewhere.

The meeting was arranged by Ken Chad to try and get more content editors on the Helibtech wiki. Therefore, at the meeting with some other members from Plymouth University, Canterbury University and University of West London amongst other places (I won't say who they are, as i'll explain why later).

Anyhow, in the meeting we discussed what needed to be done. How to increase interest? What we would do? Organisational stuff. We also discussed creating content biographies to put on wiki (hence no names mentioned above. I'll do that on this blog at a later date).

The good thing about it was the networking (even learning one month too late about Chrismash. Anyhow, we'll soon have more on this. Hopefully, we'll have a hashtag for the site.

Any queries etc or any thing you might thing is of interest either mention here, or better still over on the wiki.

Congratulations to Gloucester and Somerset public libraries

2011-11-17T18:18:00.003+01:00

As many of you may know, Somerset and Gloucester have ruled library cuts unlawful. This means that both councils will need to look at the closures somewhat differently. It was interesting how Cilip, The Guardian and BBC reported this.
Anyhow, congratulations one and all. Especial mention to for one campaignor who said this after the case:-

Gloucestershire residents should never have had to go through this stressful, upsetting and expensive process and serious questions now also need to be answered by the secretary of state Ed Vaizey. It is Mr Vaizey’s duty to intervene when authorities are not meeting their obligations to provide a library service available to all who wish to use it. Why were Gloucestershire County Council allowed to continue down this destructive path? In opposition Mr Vaizey was a vocal critic of library closures yet our many pleas for help have been ignored whilst library users were left to fight this alone – it is clear that he left his convictions at the door on entering office.

Go get 'em........

CPD 23 Thing 16: Advocacy, speaking up for the profession and getting published

2011-11-12T12:59:00.003+01:00

Thing 16: Advocacy, speaking up for the profession and getting published looked at what can be done to stop library closures and to underline libraries importance in an information economy. Laura discussed such area as the #savethelibraries hashtag, the Voices for the Library and CILIP amongst others. Laura also pointed out:-

Unfortunately it's very hard for public library staff to campaign for their own sector without risking their jobs, so it's very important for people outside of public libraries (and within, where possible) to shout about the role of public libraries and talk about why they're more relevant than ever.

She then looked at what might be needed to become an advocate such as a campaigning toolkit amongst other things.

She also looked at things to Do to become an advocate. Her recommendations where :-

There's plenty you can do to incorporate advocacy into your day-to-day life; the hardest part is working out how. For this Thing:

Consider why it's important to advocate for the section of library and information sector that you work for or want to work in.
Have a think about what advocacy you've been involved in. Give examples so we can pool resources and inspire others to do the same. Or, give an example of some advocacy that you think has been particularly effective – library-related or otherwise.
If you haven't been involved in advocacy, reflect on what your skills are (or which you want to develop), what you're most passionate about and think about what you might be able to do.
If you're passionate about public libraries and want to help – let Voices for the Library know! We're keen to get more people involved with things like asking organisations and well-known figures for supporting statements, securing sponsorship, liaising with other campaigning bodies and representing us at events.
If you've got any potential content for That's Not Online! let Jacqueline know.
Think about where advocacy fits in with professionalism – maybe comment on Johanna's blog post about Activism, Advocacy and Professional Identity or if you can get hold of any, look at some job descriptions and identify where you think the advocacy might fit within the requirements of the roles.

Ihave done some advocacy. Very lazy advocacy. This was setting up voices for the library wikipedia page.

Dorset Council wins motion close 9 public libraries

2011-11-10T21:05:00.004+01:00

A Motion to save Dorset libraries defeated.

Libraries earmarked for closure
Burton Bradstock
Chickerell
Colehill
Corfe Castle
Portland Underhill
Puddletown
Stalbridge Wool.

Who was the greater economist? - A conversation with Robert H. Frank at Nesta

2011-11-09T15:04:00.001+01:00

I am off tonight to Nesta to see Who was the greater economist? - A conversation with Robert H. Frank
. The event will look at:-

Economist and New York Times columnist Robert H. Frank will discuss his new book The Darwin Economy: Liberty, Competition and the Common Good, at NESTA on Wednesday 9th November.

The Darwin Economy contends that Charles Darwin’s understanding of competition describes economic reality far more accurately than Adam Smith. For Smith, market failures were almost always rooted in attempts to suppress competition. In contrast, Darwin’s framework suggests that market failures are rooted in the logic of competition itself.

Hopefully, will write it up sometime this week.

Steve Jobs: The Exclusive Biography book review

2011-11-07T23:26:00.003+01:00

As I mentioned previously I was sad to hear of Steve Jobs passing. I've read loads on him (1, 2, 3 and 4), so knew a fair deal about him. I had worked on a documentary and knew about some of the Apple stories especially Steve Jobs. Therefore, I was quite interested to read Steve Jobs: The Exclusive Biography.
In reading the story Isaacson gets to talk to Jobs at a pretty sad moment in his life. When he's coping with cancer.
The book does look at Jobs the man and his binary outlook (things are either great or crap). His reality distortion field stories are also covered extensively. One point of interest is the author feels Jobs could often fall pray to the reality distortion field in believing he did not have cancer as he willed it so.
For those who have read about Jobs previously, he really is not an endearing person. In fact he's pretty nasty. But, his ability to resurrect apple, his views on tablet computing and his success at Pixar making him interesting material to read about.
The main part I liked are near the end. When I went to the states I meet Jobs friend Dan Kottke, Apple employee number 12. Kottke had gone to India (one of Jobs biggest influence on him was his interest in Asian culture and religion) with jobs and worked with Jobs but when it came to giving shares to staff Kottke got none. Kottke wasn't bitter (totally), but he was disappointed in his friend not recognising he was there at the beginning of the company. When we meet him, him and Jobs hadn't spoke for years. In the book, when Jobs was dying (2009 or 2010) Kottke spoke to him when buying an Ipad. Jobs stopped and spoke to him. I've heard also Kottke did meet him on other occasions. That alone makes Jobs a more approachable character.
In conclusion. If your an Apple fan, design fan or IT fan get this book. Obviously, Jobs is slightly sugar-coated in the book, but not greatly. So, if you want an insanely great book, get this.

CPD Thing 15: Attending, presenting at and organising seminars, conferences and other events

2011-11-05T12:01:00.002+01:00

Thing 15: Attending, presenting at and organising seminars, conferences and other events . Oh dear. My favourite. The article looks at attending events. Why you should attend. What you get out of it. What you get out of it.
This then looked at Jo Alcock's article on this idea here.
Next, was speaking at events. Again, why? How? What you get out of it? Also presentation tips are included. There's also a link to Ned Potter's article on this.
Organising an event? Librarycamp and unconference etc.
I would point out that something might be added how do you find out about events? I check Nesta and the RSA are two area's I look. I also keep an eye on cilip website.

The Guardian article on decline library usage figures

2011-11-03T20:00:00.002+01:00

Library usage falls as branches close so reports the guardian.

In the article, Alan Gibbon says:-

"The great scandal is that opening hours are being slashed to ribbons,"

Designing Research - A Seminar and Conference Series at the University of London

2011-11-03T19:36:00.003+01:00

As I work at Senate House Library I noted on Facebook the following event Designing Research - A Seminar and Conference Series at the University of London. If your not a member of there facebook page, here's a link via there blog. Worth checking. And i'll be there to........

CPD Thing 14: Zotero / Mendeley / citeulike

2011-11-03T19:33:00.003+01:00

Thing 14: Zotero / Mendeley / citeulike. I have accounts for both Citeulike and Zotero, but unfortunately have not really used them. This article quickly reviews what they do, what differences their are.
For Zotero, I'm looking to use it longer blog post. With Zotero I could look at say 'librarything'. I could utilise video's from youtube, reviews of librarything and even academic approaches to librarything.
I really need to look at this in more detail though. A really good read though.

Kindle review of Free Ride: How the Internet is Destroying the Culture Business and How the Culture Business can Fight Back

2011-10-28T18:45:00.005+01:00

Free Ride: How the Internet is Destroying the Culture Business and How the Culture Business can Fight Back by Robert Levine was something I recently read on my beloved kindle. Anyhow, I know its been reviewed in other places. Anyhow, here goes.
Robert Levine's book looks at the impact of companies like Google, Apple and Piratebay.
Levine discusses how these three companies (as examples) leverage there companies as platforms for music (Apple and Itunes) and Books (google and google news and google books). They do this without producing themselves, but making money via adverts or ipods.
Obviously, Bill Gates Open Letter to Hobbyists in which he wrote:-

Why is this? As the majority of hobbyists must be aware, most of you steal your software. Hardware must be paid for, but software is something to share. Who cares if the people who worked on it get paid?

More recently Pete Townsend underlined this in the John Peel lecture, when call apple 'digital vampires'.

I found the book interesting, and far removed from people like Lawrence Lessig's approach.

I found the book a pretty good read and would certainly recommend it.

CPD Thing 13: Google Docs, Wikis and Dropbox

2011-10-28T17:42:00.003+01:00

CPD Thing 13: Google Docs, Wikis and Dropbox. In this section of the CPD we looked at online collaboration. The use of google docs at my library has been mainly when i'm at home and working. I personally have used google docs for spreadsheet of our book collections. Whether we have the item, how many items we may have, if its available or if its available via Copac and then send to the subject librarians.

Dropbox. I do believe we have used it for our document supply team, who will put scanned and paid for photocopy items in dropbox for clients to collect.

Wiki's I have set up within my previous departments. I used these predominantly as training tools and as a personal intranet. I have used mainly wetpaint when using wiki software.

CPD Thing 12: Mentoring : Puting the social in social media

2011-10-27T23:27:00.008+01:00

Well, here is number 12. Bit quick the other one. Part 12 looked at social media within the library and information roles. The article looked at how originally had gone from 100 participants to 750 due to social media.

For Thing 12 I would like you to consider the role of social media in building up networks and a sense of community. Possible areas to consider are:

are there any other advantages to social networking in the context of professional development than those already outlined above?

can you think of any disadvantages?

has CPD23 helped you to make contact with others that you would not have had contact with normally?

did you already use social media for your career development before starting CPD23?

Will you keep using it after the programme has finished?

in your opinion does social networking really help to foster a sense of community?

So, lets go through these one at a time.

1. are there any other advantages to social networking in the context of professional development than those already outlined above?

Social networking can assist with work. For example, creating a work a wiki for depatments to provide how people do things at work (so a form of intranet).

2. can you think of any disadvantages?

The disadvantage with social media are many told. Social media can create people sign up for things and doing nothing with them. Examples, I have many. I have a twitter and Blog. The thing with signing up for both these is having to follow twitter feeds and other blogs to keep up to date. So investment of time is extremely important.
Also, the problem with social media is its easy to promise to do something and not do anything. Whilst if you promise to do something verbally you are more likely to follow it through (or should do in my opinion).

3. did you already use social media for your career development before starting CPD23? As said above i've a blog and twitter account. I've also a youtube channel.

4. Will you keep using it after the programme has finished? I certainly hope. Dependent on time.

5. in your opinion does social networking really help to foster a sense of community? I think social media can help. Note the success Voices for the Library.

CPD Thing 11: Mentoring

2011-10-27T18:29:00.006+01:00

I have not done anything on my 23 things for professional development since the 2nd of August. So, i'm going to trying an catch up. So here goes for CPD : Mentoring. In discussing mentoring the article looked at what a mentor is an does, which is :-

A mentor is an advisor who is usually more senior than you (ideally by 5 to 15 years), but does not have to be, and you can seek one out at any time of your career.

The article discusses both formal and informal. Informal one's within my own career have included many the people I have worked with. I've also provided informal mentoring at work myself (talking to staff about courses, qualifications and stuff to read etc).

More formal mentors may include a mentor for chartership.

The article also discusses what makes a good mentor and a mentoree.

Book review of Owen Jones Chavs: The Demonization of the Working Class

2011-10-26T21:06:00.004+01:00

Whilst on holiday in Cornwall with shingles I bought Owen Jones Chavs: The Demonization of the Working Class. Most of you may know him from his 'argument' on newsnight with David Starkey.
Well. I really liked the book. Owen Jones (who looks amazingly young to have written the book) has researched the book.
The book looks at how the creation of a chavs is really a way of having a pop at the working class. How we escapegoat them and laugh at them. Even though in many ways we are still working class.
Owen obviously looks the impact of de-industrialisation by the Thatcher Government in the 1980's. How the downturn in union power after the coal miners strike has meant that working class people have lost their sense of identity. Owen points out how even new labour said we can all be middle class. Owen looks how politically, culturally and socially we blame these peope. There scroungers (but as he points out they exploit £1billion per year whilst white collar crime accounts for £70billion but little said about this).
Owen points out how advantageous the middle classes are at an advantage with such things as cultural capital from there parents in helping them with housing, university and getting jobs.
Culturally, he looked at the chav film of Eden Lake inwhich all the chav stereotypes come to the fore (dogs, knives, parents with cheap hot tubs). All the fear of the middle classes are there. But there is a whole plethora of the films. F, where a middle class teacher starts killing hoodied (and faceless) students who are knocking off his teachers and family. Also The Descent in which a middle class group of women are picked off by some blind, blood suckers in a cave (the under class). The middle class are trying to escape there consequences in the cave. The under class want to remain in there squalor. Just like the chavs then?
The thing I did not like is Owen talks about the book though is he talks about the 'homogenous' working class. But he only discuss the urban and industrial working class. I was on holiday and went to cornwalll and devon, In my home town in Devon of great torrington two pubs had closed. 4 factories had gone. Its bloody sad. In cornwall I went to Fowey and saw little evidence of any cornish people. Holiday homes and TV stars were there. The fishing village is no longer there (unlike the one in the detestable Doc Martin, with its contrived view of the area). The decline of fishing, farming, tin and clay is hardly mentioned).
Owen Jones blog is here. I recommend the book. Also, i'm a socialist, so if anyone feels I am unfair to the Tories. Tough luck as they would say.

Returning from Cornwall

2011-10-26T19:10:00.002+01:00

I have just returned from Cornwall after a holiday. Unfortunately, I got shingles. Did make me think about catching up on blogging. So, lets try.

A possible return......the passing of Steve Jobs

2011-10-06T18:18:00.002+01:00

I've not written for a long while on this blog. I have been bored with it to be honest. But I was touched to write about the passing of Steve Jobs. Christ, I bet everyone has haven't they. Anyhow, here is my piece.
It is quite weird when I found out. In the IT world he has (sorry, had) and almost god like following (well, for some). Like any god, they don't die. Steve Jobs did though. I was upset. Why? Well I like Jobs as I've has 3 macs in the last ten year (my first being the Imac G3 in 2000. Not the biggest machine, but for pure pleasure of use and aesthetics it was unbeatable. Also, this Mac had OS 9. Not the easiest OS ever either. It is the only computer I really loved working on. The Imac G3 is seen as the first innovation that Jobs brought about on his return to Apple in 1997.
Not only that I've owned three Ipods (I lost one in a drunken haze). Therefore, I've had pleasure listening to music and using a computer, which on PC never happened.
I have also seen Steve Jobs in person as a mac expo in san francisco in 2002 keynote speech. For those who have never seen this, its quite amazing. People simply stormed for their seats. They hung on every word. He was like a god to them (btw, it was god dam scary to if you got in there way). But he did have an aura when he spoke> Even though I had no idea then what he was talking about (i'm a geek not a programmer). Whilst at the Expo I also went to Cupertino for drinks at Apple HQ. I could understand beer and got drunk their (it was free booze).
I've also read many books about Apple such as Insanely Great: The Life and Times of Macintosh, the Computer That Changed Everything, Return to the Little Kingdom: Steve Jobs, the creation of Apple, and how it changed the world, Accidental Empires: How the Boys of Silicon Valley Make Their Millions, Battle Foreign Competition and Still Can't Get a Date and plenty others. All fascinating.
I also got to work on a Film about In Search of the Valley in which I meet Steve Wozniak, co founder of Apple. Daniel Kottke a friend of jobs in the 1970's and employee no.12 at Apple. Captain Crunch we phone phreaker Jobs visited to learn about it. Guy Kawasaki who was chief evangelist for Jobs and Apple in the early 80's. The stories where fascinating. The guy was a great salesman and performer.
Another reason to admire Jobs was he was quite a nasty guy as well. For example, rejecting his first daughter Lisa, even when DNA results showed he was her father. His not paying Woz his share for making break out for Atari. And many other stories to.
I'm not totally a fan boy of Apple. I hate Itunes and the selling of single tunes for $0.99. I think it under sells albums and artist and media companies are losing out at Apple's gain (read Free Ride: How the Internet Is Destroying the Culture Business and How the Culture Business Can Fight Back to get a better understanding). I detest the Ipad, and find it too expensive for what it does (there's a suprise. Apple. Too expensive?)
So, why was I upset at Jobs passing? Jobs was a genius. He had 3 successes. Apple. Next. Pixar. For most people, one would be good. But three? Christ, thats insane. Jobs was also a legend. His idea of design was groundbreaking.
Jobs was also a legend (sometimes in his own mind). His work on the popularisation of Tablet computers and Mp3 players and changing the record indusrty, just mind blowing.
But finally, his passing shows that he was admired. RIP Steve Jobs.

How depressing!!!!

2011-08-06T22:02:00.003+01:00

This article in The Guardian entitled Libraries will rely on volunteers to survive, says report incredibly sad. This comes from the Learning from the Future Libraries Programme Phase one. Oh well. Another advancement under the great con/dem government.

How much for the book?

2011-08-04T17:08:00.002+01:00

With the rise of the kindle and alleged decline of publishing, The Guardian has an interesting article entitled The true price of publishing.
This looks at the argument of why hardbacks are so expensive in comparison to e-books, pointing out:-

publishing is a business that incurs high fixed costs. And it's this, to return to my initial question, that accounts for the high price of (indeed the very existence of) hardbacks. The publisher needs to maximise revenues in order to defray its outlay. Some people are prepared to pay top dollar to have the premium product – a hardcover copy that comes out, crucially, months before other versions. So it makes sense for the publisher to offer it to them.

Anyhow, worth a look if you have time.

How do you quote from a kindle?

2011-08-03T21:09:00.003+01:00

Having had a Kindle for a month or so I've been using it extensively. One, thing I have been wondering, is if used at University can you quote it for foot notes or endnotes. I did find this link which says how its done though.

CPD Thing 10 - Graduate traineeships, Masters Degrees, Chartership, Accreditation

2011-08-02T13:19:00.002+01:00

Thing 10 - Graduate traineeships, Masters Degrees, Chartership, Accreditation looked at Graduate traineeships which are :-

Graduate traineeships are usually 12 month long posts which start in August or September and are aimed at recent graduates who are thinking about going into librarianship.

Masters degrees which are accreddited by Cilip. Which is what I have done.

Chartership which CILIP describes as:=

Chartership is CILIP's professional qualification. It's more than earning the right to have MCLIP after your name. Chartered Membership opens up new career opportunities and gives Members the skills and approach needed to develop their roles and make good job applications. By honing evaluative and professional skills through Chartering, Members also add value to their organizations and can advocate effectively on behalf of their services.

Thing 9: Evernote of 23 Things for Professional Development

2011-08-02T13:10:00.002+01:00

Now i've never used evernote (or heard of of it, even though I actually have an account). But Thing 9 was dealing with evernote which is described as :-

You want to be able to make comments on webpages and archive them along with your own notes so that everything is all in the one place and easy to access.

It can also save photo's etc from conferences. Therefore, if your going to write a long post (thats not me then) this is your tool.

Google Calendar Part 8 of CPD23

2011-07-27T23:21:00.002+01:00

Part 8 of CPD 23 looked at Google Calendar. Google Calender would be used to create events and make them freely available on your blog etc.

Face-to-face networks and professional organisations part 7

2011-07-27T21:04:00.003+01:00

Well I didn't get around to writting part 7 of the CPD, which looked professional organisations. With a link to Real life networking for #cpd23, looking at past library events. It also looked at paid for organisations to join such as CILIP amongst other. It also looked at Informal organisations such as Lisnpn amongst others.

After a holiday in Germany......

2011-07-26T22:32:00.003+01:00

Well, after a week in Burgerfest with the misses, I have got back to here about Library Camp. Oh well, booked it. But work tomorrow.

3 years on

2011-07-19T13:04:00.002+01:00

3 years ago today my brother was murdered. Its not really a day I enjoy, but one I seldom forget. Thankfully, I'm away on holiday from tomorrow, so that helps. I'll be thinking of you Jody.

23 Things for Professional Development Thing 6......The network affect

2011-07-18T12:50:00.005+01:00

The CPD23 thing 6, looked at the use of social networks for library and information professionals. These sites would include:-
1. LinkedIn (mine)
2. Facebook
3. Lisnpn.
4. Welcome to Librarians as Teachers Network.
5. CILIP Communities.

I always feel as a professional, linked in is one of the best sites, as their is no data smog. Lisnpn is one I don't use enough. Short blog i'm afraid.

Out with the Cousin

2011-07-15T20:32:00.004+01:00

My cousin recently got a first class degree from Falmouth (even better than me). Anyhow, he was up in London showing the work he'd produced on the course in Brick Lane. Anyhow, was fascinating to see his work, and meet the next night with his friends for beers. So, well done Phil.

Holidaying with a book

2011-07-13T18:06:00.003+01:00

(Found via here). An article in Salon entitled Reading retreats: Paradise for book lovers. The article discusses the rise of holidays specifically for reading. It also looks London's School of Life has created Bibliotherapy, which is:-

Once upon a time, it was easy to find books you could enjoy and which felt relevant to your life. Now a new book is published every 30 seconds, and you would need 163 lifetimes to get through all the titles offered on Amazon. That’s why The School of Life has set up a bibliotherapy service: the perfect way for you to discover those amazing but often elusive works of literature that can illuminate and even change your life.

Great, but as individual consultations cost £70.00, I think I might use my own mind to choose my books thanks.

23 Things for Professional Development - Thing 5 – Reflective Practice

2011-07-11T20:32:00.003+01:00

Thing 5 – Reflective Practice is available today. This looked at:-

1. Recall it: this could be an event you’ve participated in, a project group you’ve been part of, a workshop you’ve delivered, an enquiry you’ve responded to…

2. Evaluate it: Take some time to consider these questions
What did you learn?
What did you enjoy?
What worked well?
What, if anything, went wrong?
What would you change?
What (potential) impact could this have in your workplace?

3. Apply it: Take some action. What can you practically apply from the experience you’ve had?

I often struggle in this area. I mean I read some blog post like this one recently. My blog post are sometimes the poorly planned and poorly executed. Ummmmm....

Bookmooch closed

2011-07-08T17:51:00.002+01:00

Many years ago I joined bookmooch, an international, on-line book exchange community founded by John Buckman. Forfive years I used it. Since buying the Kindle I've closed it down. I closed it due to the expense and that I was willing to send and others were not. I also got feed up with the complaints about it such as these.

Possible library job losses In Warwickshire

2011-07-06T21:12:00.001+01:00

The BBC website reports Warwickshire libraries could face 120 job cuts. The report says:-

Library staff in Warwickshire have been told the council is looking to make 50 full-time posts redundant.

That could result in up to 120 of them losing their jobs as many people work part-time.

More bad news.

The return of Michael Casey

2011-07-06T20:45:00.002+01:00

One of the reasons for starting this blog was because of Michael Casey and Library Crunch and wrote Working Towards a Definition of Library 2.0. Although Librarycrunch has now ceased. I'd noted he'd not written for ages, as his mum had passed away. He's now going to write more often (or hope so). Be good to have him back.

Worldwide Library 2.011 Conference in November 2011

2011-07-06T20:36:00.002+01:00

I just got this via email, that might be of interest to you:-

This is our official call for presentations for the Library 2.011 conference, November 2 - 3, 2011. The conference will be held online, in multiple time zones over the course of two days, and will be free to attend. We encourage all to participate, and ask that you share this information where appropriate. Presentation submission instructions are at http://www.library20.com/pages/call-for-proposals.

The Library 2.011 conference will be a unique chance to participate in a global conversation on the current and future state of libraries. The conference strands are at the bottom of this email. Session proposals will be posted on the conference website, and we encourage making comments to and connecting with others based on their session proposals, as well as "voting" for session using the "like" button on the submissions. Session proposals are due September 15, and session acceptances will be communicated by September 30.

Good news for Somerset......bad news for libraries and librarians

2011-07-04T17:10:00.003+01:00

The BBC has reportrd three Somerset libraries set to stay open. The article says:-

Three out of six libraries due to lose funding from Somerset County Council in three months are set to stay open.

Six libraries in the county will have their funding stopped from 1 October and another five will have their funding stopped from next April.

Volunteers have stepped in to pay for and run libraries in Bishops Lydeard, Bruton and Porlock.

The Conservative-led council aims to save 25%, or £1.35m of the library budget.

I'm not really one for the volunteers in libraries thing. I thing it won't work as there is little financial. intellectual or social pay back for the volunteers. Also, they won't have the skillset for users on copyright issues etc. oh well.

23 Things for Professional Development Thing 4: Current awareness - Twitter, RSS and Pushnote

2011-07-04T12:50:00.004+01:00

23 Things for Professional Development new post discusses Thing 4: Current awareness - Twitter, RSS and Pushnote.

The twitter part looks at join (which I did YEARS ago). It then looked at introducing oneself on twitter and using the hashtag #cpd23.

My problem with twitter is you need to be constantly on it to know whats going on.

The RSS section looked at what RSS does, what RSS reader to use. It also sites to perhaps add to your reader:-

Librarian by Day - transliteracy, digital library services
Phil Bradley's weblog - "where librarians and the Internet meet" - search engines, web 2.0 technologies
The Wikiman - library advocacy, marketing, social media
Thoughts of a [wannabe] librarian - IT in libraries, digital divide, library news and advocacy
Agnostic Maybe - ebooks, library news. Hosts an "open-thread Thursday" discussion each week
Hack Library School - a must for LIS students, "hack" your library school experience using the web as a collaborative space
Rarely Sited - special collections and outreach
Mashable - social media and technology news

I was disappointed I wasn't there. I also think they should add you can compartmentalised different blog interest group. I did comment on this here (google actually said no to that on 10 occasions). My query was:-

RSS can also be used for multiple interest. For example sport, news, work. Maybe that might be something to add to cpd23?

The final thing was Pushnote. described as:-

a tool that allows you to rate and comment on any website. If any of your Twitter or Facebook friends use Pushnote as well, you can add them as a friend, and then share pages with them. You can also choose to automatically post your comments to Twitter and/or Facebook if you want to share them with a wider audience.

I've never really been a fan of this system, so I didn't sign up for it.

Gloucester libraries on channel 4 news

2011-07-02T18:39:00.003+01:00

It was with some interest I saw Friends of Gloucester Libraries was on channel 4 news. The news discussed The High Court issues an injunction against Gloucestershire County Council over library closures. I did also get to see the delightful conservative leader Mark Hawthorne complaining about it.

What is in a job?

2011-07-02T11:27:00.002+01:00

I have mentioned previously that I now have one of those rare things in Librarianship. A permanent role. The role is certainly different to my previous job here and let me explain why. Previously, I was in user services department. This generally meant being able to do membership, desk duties, searching for missing books etc. The new role is working as an assistant in collection management team. The other job was good, but I prefer the collection management. The reason is:-
1. I'm constantly busy.
2. With Senate House in the midst of moving its collections I get a better understanding of the collection. As well as learning how expensive space can be.
3. I'm able to focus on one job at a time.
4. As we are a small team, and movers are in, I need to communicate better to them so that we can get everything done. This as actually been the best part so far. Improving my communication and management skills.
5. I now have a permanent role and am less stressed about waiting for my contract to be not renewed.
6. Finally, as I said in my interview, Digital libraries and collection management seem to be growth area's in librarianship (I feel). I feel (paper) collections will be retained more in depositories off site and more books become digitalisated, therefore I see a growth area in my present position.

Anyhow, the job means I'm more tired, drinking less and quit smoking.

Kindle power

2011-07-02T10:26:00.003+01:00

Having continually pointed out I have a Kindle, I thought I'd mention how its going using it. I now some articles have said :-

Books as I grew up with them — books with jackets and covers and paper and spines — have stories that reach beyond what's written inside, and those stories are mine. There's the paperback copy of "Fahrenheit 451," signed by Ray Bradbury when he came to my hometown bookstore (and which I consequently never returned to the library).

But I find the kindle more convenient etc. I don't want an autograph book (why would I want to bow before the alter of celebrity fandom?) I really don't have space in an expensive London flat. I can arange the books into my own categories. I can take 2000 books with me. I can start reading without fear of losing my book marker. I can sell my books to pay for my Kindle. I never thought I would say it, but I prefer my kindle.

Out Of This World Science Fiction Exhibition at BL

2011-06-30T21:15:00.003+01:00

I was reading Gary Green's blog recently, and his going to the British Library to see the Out of this world exhibition. For those who can go I'd really recommend it. There's books there by Margaret Attwood, Mary Shelley, Phillip K Dick, Alan Moore and Neal Stephenson. The exhition looked at Dystopia novels, utopian novels, time shifting novels and Virtual reality novels amongst others. If that doesn't interest you, Dr.Who's Tardis is there.

23 Things for Professional Development part 3. Consider your brand

2011-06-27T20:51:00.002+01:00

As mentioned previously I have started on the 23 Things for Professional Development. The third part is entitled Thing 3: Consider your personal brand by Jo Alcock.
Anyway, its something I'll look into later.

The best of times, the worst of Times

2011-06-27T17:08:00.002+01:00

Since working for over three years at Senate House Library, I've had the good fortune to work with someone called Jim Callaghan. Jim opened the library, sorted the tills out, moved the books to there area and other jobs. Not the most glamorous job, but one he'd done well for 27 years. In that time he'd seen the library change from having a tea urn and bar, to a streamlined machine. He'd seen people come and people go.
In July he was to retire, with a new gran daughter to take care of and time with the family. We'd already organised his last birthday present (a London Irish rugby shirt, a bottle of whisky and a book). When we gave it to him, he had tears in his eyes. He was going to miss this place on retirement.
We were organising a leaving do for him in July. To hear his stories and to see him smile. Unfortunately, Jim passed away on Saturday in his sleep. It's amazingly sad, but I'm so glad he had that birthday and to see him smile. Sometimes when I blog I forget works not all about gadgets and talk. Its often about the people you interact with. You'll be sadly missed Jim.

The beginning of the end for books?

2011-06-25T23:06:00.003+01:00

There's a good article In the Guardian entitled Want to know print's future? It will cost you… looking at the impact of Ebooks on paper books? Robert McGrum,the author of the article says:-

The history of technology teaches that the printing press did not make the manuscript redundant, nor did the typewriter eliminate the fountain pen. Despite dire predictions, television did not kill radio. Technological change is discontinuous.

Work, Work, Work

2011-06-25T22:03:00.003+01:00

I have mentioned previously I have a new role at Senate House. This means I'm working as part of the collection management. This means I'm helping move collections. A lot of lifting. A lot of moving. But its a change......

The British Library and Google in conjunction to release 250,000 books

2011-06-20T12:00:00.002+01:00

A colleague pointed this article The British Library and Google to make 250,000 books available to all out to me. Wonder how long it'll take to complete the digitising for that?

Supercharge your CPD: 23 Things for Professional Development starts today

2011-06-20T11:19:00.002+01:00

I've just joined Supercharge your CPD: 23 Things for Professional Development (which I found via here). Described as:-

23 Things for Professional Development, also known as cpd23, is a self-directed, self-paced, inclusive, practical and free online programme open to librarians and information professionals at all stages of their career, in any type of role, any sector, and from any part of the world. It encourages information professionals to explore and discover social media 'Things', including Twitter, RSS feeds and file-sharing, as well as other 'traditional' CPD routes, such as gaining qualifications, presenting skills and getting published. Participants will be asked to assess how each Thing can assist them in their professional development, and then to blog about each Thing and share their thoughts, views and expertise. The programme is completely informal and no prior knowledge or experience is expected or assumed.

The first part was to set up a blog. The second part was to investigate and comment on others. I am hoping to do the course even though my new job means i'm constantly busy.

British Library still to release out of date copyright books for Kindle

2011-06-20T09:35:00.003+01:00

I was reading with some in A Kindle World blog and the article British Library Books Follow-up: Enhanced Versions on iPad with Option to Buy Printed Copies at Amazon
What happened on the British Library books?. I had heard the British Library was to release these in February.
TUAW has reported though that Ipad has stolen a march on the kindle, by getting these books first. It also seems the Ipad App is only available in the USA. Thats so clever BL!

CILIP London: Voices for the Library: a new model for library advocacy at The Sekforde Arms Hashtag

2011-06-13T11:04:00.003+01:00

As mentioned previously in this blog, Tom Roper will be talking at the Sekforde Arms. I mentioned in the post, that at the time there was no hashtag. Tom quickly responded by saying it might be worth using #vftlciliplond as the hashtag. Thanks Tom. I'm hoping to be there, but workuing until 6.00pm.

Bow down before the Kindle

2011-06-09T17:50:00.002+01:00

As mentioned previously I have a Kindle. I have bought a load of books which are:-
*The Man
*Lair of the White Worm
*Alan Moore: The Essential Guide to the Creator of watchmen, From Hell and V for Vendetta (Pocket Essential series)
*Lord Jim
*Nostromo, a Tale of the Seaboard
*The Works of H. Rider Haggard

I love my Kindle. Its actually making me read more. Its so simple to use to.

New job, new start

2011-06-09T17:38:00.002+01:00

As mentioned previously, I've started a new job at Senate House Library. Tomorrow I offically move to that team, which means lots of moving books, collection movement etc. There was another job here, in which two colleagues went up for the job. One I'd worked with since I started and another who has been here for 18 months. I'd hope the girl I started with got it, but the other guy got it (who is a nice guy and very good). Anyhow, office tittle, tattle is VERY dull.

Women’s Institute to campaign for libraries via Cilip

2011-06-09T17:18:00.003+01:00

The Women’s Institute to campaign for libraries. Anyhow, thats a pretty big organisation to be supporting CILIP campaign against public library closures.

CILIP London: Voices for the Library: a new model for library advocacy at The Sekforde Arms

2011-06-08T12:44:00.002+01:00

Tom Roper will be talking at Sekforde Inn in London entitled CILIP London: Voices for the Library: a new model for library advocacy. I might got along. Also unsure what the hashtag is for the event

A permanent role, a less permanent blog

2011-06-03T11:45:00.002+01:00

Having not written on here for six or seven weeks, as I just didn't want to. I've also been busy getting a permanent role as Senate House library working within the collection management team. As a reward to myself I have now also bought a kindle. Therefore, I maybe cutting back on my blog entries. If you had not noticed already.

You Couldn't Ignore Me If You Tried: The Brat Pack, John Hughes, and Their Impact on a Generation. A book review

2011-04-06T14:42:00.004+01:00

I've just finished You Couldn't Ignore Me If You Tried: The Brat Pack, John Hughes, and Their Impact on a Generation. Now, i'm a huge fan of John Hughes. I mean, name me an iconic film in the 1980's that used the library as its central place of events occuring in the film? It has to be the breakfast club? I had already had a cup of reminiscence reading Pretty in Pink and watched the excellent Don't You Forget About Me, which had a group of film-makers trying to meet the reclusive John Hughes to look at there documentary on him and the interviews they had with his former stars.
Anyhow, the book is by a real fan of the Hughes genre Susannah Gora. In the midst of writting this book she looks at Hughes early life, his body of work (Sixteen Candles, Breakfast club, Ferris Buellers Day Off, Some Kind of Wonderful and Home Alone. Gora also discusses the impact of David Blum's Brat packstory, and the impact it had upon there career. Gora, also looked at the two other directors that shared the same space whilst working in the 1980's together. These are Joel Schumacher and Cameron Crowe. Joel directed St. Elmo's Fire, whilst Cameron Crowe created Say Anything.
Well, Gora is VERY knowledgeable (the library in Breakfast club is actually in made in the gym in the school). She got to interview all the major stars in the films (but not John Hughes obviously). Its quite sad as well, because if anyone's watched Hughes films, its really sad that he'd stop talking to his muses such as Molly Ringwald and Anthony Michael Hall.
I love Hughes for many reasons, one being I took my brother to see Home Alone and I can still here him laughing.
What I did find problematic with the book was that there was little mention of Weird Science, Uncle Buck and Planes, trains and Automobiles. Also, the book Pretty in Pink discussed Breakfast Club, and why that dance sequence? Its just wrong.
Overall, its just a book you have to read. Because 'When you grow up, your heart dies."

Library Advocacy event at Cilip

2011-03-28T12:34:00.003+01:00

23 May Library Advocacy: Sharing and Learning from National and International Experiences. The event is on my birthday and £96.00 (so too expensive a present for myself, but for those interested, it might be worth a shot.

Tim Wu at the RSA

2011-03-18T12:05:00.004+01:00

I had the good fortune to here Tim Wu talk about his new book Master Switch at the RSA on wednesday. I did write about it on twitter under the following hashtag. The chair of the even was Tom Chatfield, author of Fun Inc. The Anyhow, after discussing the book and its main principles, the chair asked a few questions. The main preponderance of the discussion is whether information networks become monopolies (AT&T), closed systems (Apple) or need government to stop them stopping entrepeneurs opening up new markets because they are crushed by large ones.
The RSA is soon to release an MP3 of the event (check here for updates). I'd recommend the book to. Very interesting read.
Finally, thanks to Shane Dillion, who I had a nice chat with at the event. For a more in depth look at the event see the post here.

Nerdy Day Trips

2011-03-18T11:48:00.002+01:00

(Found via here). Ben Goldacre has a blog post (and map) entitled nerdy daytrips. For those with a bit of geek in them it might be worth a look.

My 1st computer.....thirty years old

2011-03-11T12:45:00.005+01:00

The BBC website has an article entitled ZX81 : Small blacl box of computing desire. Back in 1982 I got this as a Christmas present. The keyboard unresponsive, you had to move the memory back on the back, but my god I did love that computer.

Book to come......books to get

2011-03-04T12:22:00.003+01:00

Having written previously of the book Googlization of everything, I've pre-ordered my copy which is due out on monday 07.03.11. Its been reviewed and looks a pretty good read.
Another book out soon is James Gleick's The Information : A history, a theory, a flood is due out 31.03.11 and reviewed here. Information overload, don't you just love it?

Tim Wu book and Terry Gilliam

2011-03-03T18:53:00.002+01:00

As mentioned previously, I'm going to see Tim Wu discuss his new book The Masters Switch. I'm presently reading the book (and highly recommended). Whilst reading the book on one chapter it discusses the invention of the Hush -a-phone sold by Harry Tuttle. Harry was stopped by AT&T in the 1930's from selling this product (which kept phone calls private). AT&T monopoly meant that Harry Tuttle was stopped from selling this product, even though in court he had a young engineer called John Licklider pointing out that it worked and caused AT&T no problems (for those who don't know Licklider you should read this.
But in the book Harry is a guy fighting 'the man' (or AT&T), just like the character Harry Tuttle in Terry Gilliam's great film Brazil.

Gloucestershire to appeal against public library closures

2011-02-24T20:34:00.003+01:00

After my previous post, I noted that library users are toLegally challenge GCC cuts. Good on them. If legal redress is the only means of stopping closures then thats what we'll have to do.
Also, in my previous post I said the work FOGL had done and achieved would be 'cold comfort'. But as Gary Green said :-

Cold comfort, yes, but I think it will have inspired others to get out and fight for their libraries.

I totally agree. What I meant was I had hope the work the FOGL had done deserved a better outcome. But then they have been pretty inspirational in there campaign, so thats success.

The decline of the British public library.........

2011-02-21T15:36:00.004+01:00

Its pretty sad to see that our elected representative rarely listening to their constituency (but hardly surprising). Therefore, it was sad to read that the good work that Friends of Gloucestershire Libraries. Seems that the 42% cut in the Library budget is been steamrollered through. The response to these closures by some (tory) councillors beggers belief when they were confronted by the effect they would have on a rural community to a :-

“I have read with interest. I do not intend to reply in detail”

Hopefully there maybe some way around this, but it seems not.

By the way, I would like to add to Gary Green's post, when he says the following:-

I’m.....upset about Gloucestershire – I have seen the campaign grow since the first day Johanna Anderson (Friends of Gloucestershire Libraries) highlighted the plans that had been announced on the This Is Gloucestershire site (August 2010, I think) and I have seen the many of the ups and downs. In fact, seeing what was going on in Gloucestershire played an important part in my joining Voices For The Library.

I know this is no consolation for Friends of Gloucestershire Libraries campaigners and all involved, but I have great admiration for all they have tried to do. They deserved so much better than this result.

Jo and the rest have done a fantastic job in attempting to stop the closures. Its cold comfort none the less.

IWR piece on UK public library closures

2011-02-18T13:01:00.002+01:00

Information World Review's blog has an article entitled Local governments will play safe with library closures, but will close them anyway. Most of its been said before, but I do like the following point the article makes:-

Government will find ways to work around the Act through other initiatives such as the Big Society project under which local residents will be encouraged and assisted to run library service.

But what about the library professionals who provide specialised services, recommendations and are well aware of the users' needs?

Libraries and library professionals contribute in making users more skilled, and informed as well as help them improve their digital skills.

Tim Wu speaking at the RSA

2011-02-18T00:14:00.003+01:00

Timothy Wu, author of The Master Switch: The Rise and Fall of Information Empires will be talking at the RSA in a talk called The Rise and Fall of Information Empires. Its free and the date and time is 16th Mar 2011; 13:00. I got a ticket, now lets get the time off.

Reading for pleasure......

2011-02-14T16:21:00.003+01:00

In the last few months I've been reading way too many social media books. These include The Dumbest Generation, The Shallows: How the Internet is Changing the Way We Think, Read and Remember, Cognitive Surplus: Creativity and Generosity in a Connected Age and Born Digital. All very, very interesting. But all a bit dry.
Therefore, i'm reading books on one other love. Cinema. Just finished Pretty in Pink, awaiting the arrival of You Couldn't Ignore Me If You Tried: The Brat Pack, John Hughes, and Their Impact on a Generation. I'm also reading Best of British: Cinema and Society from 1930 to the Present. Its actually quite nice to read something a bit different from the usual stuff. Expecially seeing I've started re-watching some old classic movies like The Sure Thing, Say Anything... and Whisky Galore. ohhhh, to reminesce.......

Gary Green to have keynote speech at Pancakes and Mash

2011-02-13T09:30:00.002+01:00

Gary Green is the Keynote speech Lincoln's Pancakes and Mash. The speech, entitled Loud Library Voices: Campaigning, The Web, Journalists & The Offline World, will look at the his work at Voices for the library. The rest of the event will look practical mashing session about using Web 2.0 tools to help save libraries.

Ed Milliband criticises David Cameron's big society

2011-02-13T09:20:00.003+01:00

Labour leader Ed Milliband has criticised the David Cameron's big society in an article entitled Ed Miliband: The Big Society: a cloak for the small state. Milliband says of libraries in the article:-

But no one can volunteer at a library or a Sure Start centre if it's being closed down. And nor can this Conservative-led government build a Big Society while simultaneously undermining its foundations with billions of pounds worth of cuts to the voluntary sector. Those are not merely numbers on a piece of paper; they affect real people.........Mr Cameron should visit the local libraries in my constituency. These are not some monolithic institutions of crude Conservative caricature. They have classes for new mums and babies, after-school activities for young people, clubs for the elderly. They are owned by government but they nurture community. And now many of them are threatened with closure.

Good to see labour putting pressure on the Con-dem policies.

Manic Streets preachers speak out against Library closures

2011-02-08T14:14:00.002+01:00

Nicky Wire of the Manic Street Preachers has an article in todays Guardian entitled 'If you tolerate this ...': Nicky Wire on library closures. In the article he says:-

As an utterly self-made band, in our formative stages we vociferously consumed high and low culture – magazines, literature and TV. Without money, libraries became something of a lifeline, offering a clear window on to a wider world. In the summer of 2009, the band were honoured to be asked to open the new Cardiff Central Library.

Good on them.

Updated Wiki page for Voices for the Libraries

2011-02-06T17:12:00.001+01:00

U have just updated the wikipage for Voices for the Library. I'm not sure how good it is, but I have updated it.

What the papers say about save our libraries campaign

2011-02-06T08:41:00.003+01:00

Well, after the save our libraries campaign there seems to have been pretty well covered in the observer, with two articles on the event. One called Writers' anger over plans for libraries and another looking at Phhil Bradley's posters against closures Your library needs YOU!. The Telegraph had a few articles to (but not on sunday). These were Philip Pullman leads day of protests at planned closure of libraries, Top writers join National Library Action Day and Authors lead protests against library closures.
The Independent had an article called The day the bookworms turned.
The Daily Mail said nothing. The Sun had nothing (what a surprise?) The Mirror had an article entitled Authors to stage library read-ins.
So pretty good coverage really.

700th entry and off to support Marcus Garvey to support

2011-02-05T11:54:00.002+01:00

This is my 700th entry and today is Save Our Libraries day. The following link is a live blog on the Guardian site. I'm going to Marcus Garvey later, as its the first library I worked at and there supporting them for the day. Listened to radio five have been following it to.
Therefore, a big shout to all the team from voices for the library who have helped make this a great idea.

A great article from LSE on public Library resistance to UK closures

2011-02-03T15:36:00.003+01:00

There is a great article on British Politics and Policy at LSE entitled The threats to public libraries look overwhelming. Yet both defensive mobilizations to resist cutbacks and pressures for innovations offer hope for radical improvements.
The article looks at the grassroots activism that some counties have taken up, to stop the mass culling of public libraries.

Job interview that I didn't get

2011-02-03T15:27:00.004+01:00

Had another interview at an academic library. Unfortunately I didn't get it. Wasn't really my best interview, so only disappointed in self. Oh well. Give me time to get on with the Wiki I started then.

Two articles dealing with the impact of UK library closures

2011-01-25T16:50:00.002+01:00

The IWR has an article entitled Evolution Yes, Closures No. The article though is rather shallow when it says:-

Technology has enabled the whole search and acquisition process to become more hassle-free and less time-consuming for customers and what’s more, the migration of content to e-book format means that libraries can now produce substantial revenues without having to stock physical books.

I think the author would find libraries have e-content and have had e-content for quite a while.

The second article is from the False Economy blog entitled “Too precious to destroy” – Philip Pullman stands up for public libraries [found via Neil Ford on twitter]. In this more emotive. Pullman says in the article:-

Aside from denigrating the professionalism of librarians, Philip wonders where the volunteers will come from.

“The fact is that if there’s anyone who has the time and the energy to work for nothing in a good cause, they are already working for one....This is the Big Society, you see. It must be big, to contain so many volunteers.”

And will richer and poorer communities be equal in the race for funds? Of course not. The cuts to public libraries reflect the growing power of the “greedy ghost of market fundamentalism”:

“The greedy ghost understands profit all right. But that’s all he understands... He doesn’t understand libraries at all, for instance. That branch – how much money did it make last year? Why aren’t you charging higher fines? Why don’t you charge for library cards?”

Both worth a read if you have time.

Good article on progress in UK and specifically Yorkshire and library closures

2011-01-25T14:08:00.002+01:00

Simon Barron has a great post over on his blog entitled North Yorkshire library campaign progress. Although for many people that may read this (and Simon's blog), will know what has been going on with library campaigns in the UK and Yorkshire, its a good source for the past week who haven't been able to keep up with it.

Thanks also to Simon and Dave Pattern for there assistance on the Wiki page. I'm trying to do more but have been busy at work and as yet not completed (or fully started) the page.

Nesta Event......another I can't go to.......

2011-01-25T13:38:00.002+01:00

Nesta has an event next Tuesday, February 01, 2011 from 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM entitled The Livingstone-Hope Skills Review of Video Games and Visual Effects, with free registration.

Nesta says of the event:-

You are invited to the launch of a major new report into the UK's video games and visual effect industries.

Based on original evidence across schools, universities and industry, the Livingstone-Hope Review explores how the UK can best encourage and develop UK talent and sets out a compelling plan for how the UK can transform into a world leader in games production and visual effects.

Speakers will include Ed Vaizey MP, Minister for Culture, Communication and the Creative Industries; Ian Livingstone, Life President of Eidos and Alex Hope, Managing Director of Double Negative.

Be interesting to go just because Ed Vaisey is there.

Haggis and Mash today and tomorrow

2011-01-25T10:28:00.002+01:00

Haggis and Mash is being held today in Edinburgh. I have a colleague who has gone (have a good one Andrew). I unfortunately could not make it, and doubt i'll catch much on Twitter either, as presently am postboy this week at work. oh, the delights.
For all those there, have a good one.

I have started a wikipedia page for Voices of the Library

2011-01-19T14:32:00.002+01:00

Whilst on a couple days leave I noted that Voices of the Library had no Wikipedia page. So I have started one here. Its merely the bear bones and a work in progress, but anyone want to add or take anything off please do (its a wiki after all!).

The reason I put it up is wikipedia is always a resource used to promote films etc, so why not Voices of the Library? I hope this doesn't annoy any of the sterling team that is working on Voices of the Library. If it does. Sorry.

BBC in Epicfail on public library closures in Morning news

2011-01-19T10:54:00.003+01:00

Waking to the BBC breakfast news, I was interested in the piece on the public library closures. After watching it i'm more disheartened by the ineptitude of the BBC's reporting (iplayer piece here, thanks to wikiman). I thought the BBC was about balanced and fair reporting? Well I was wrong.
The report looked at the possible 375 closures countrywide. Mentioned the 250,000 drop in users. The second statement is total wrong. As Ned Potter wrote:-

For example, in the last year use of the library by black and
ethnic minority groups has increased; use of the library
by non-Christian religious people has increased; and the
number of 5 to 10 year olds who claim to have visited
their library ‘in the last week’ has increased (by more than
20%!). In other words, even during a down-turn in overall
visitation, kids and some minority groups are finding more
reasons to visit than before – I think that’s good news…
Incidentally, the report says more than once, ‘The decrease
in library visits is consistent across all socio-demographic
groups.’ Maybe I’m missing something, but that seems
quite a sweeping statement in light of the statistics above.
If the report itself glosses over any positives, what hope is
there of the headlines picking up on anything other than
the negatives?
In May, three months before the DCMS released their
report, the Chartered Institute of Public Finance and
Accountancy released their own survey (CIPFA, 2010)
on exactly the same subject, amid far less fanfare. Their
findings cover the same five year period, but make much
better reading. Both surveys find physical attendance to be
down by around 4%; the difference is, CIPFA took the time
to investigate online activity as well. This, they discovered,
was up by a massive 49% across the country in the last year
alone.

The BBC then BRIEFLY mentioned the closures in Gloucester (even though it had spoken to friends of gloucestershire libraries about this segment of news). It then proceeded to mention the Buckinghamshire experiment in which 14 of the libraries are now volunteer run. A few questions were asked if user liked it and they said it was fine (thanks BBC, a free party political broadcast for big society there). They then asked the person in charge of the volunteers if it worked. He said yes, but that it took 60 volunteers, free time and pre-requisite skillset. A brief mention was then made of Stony Stratford patrons withdrawing all library books to stop the library closing.

That was it.

No mentions of people trying to stop these closures. Like Voices of the library, Save Doncaster Libraries, Barnet Libraries, Save Somerset's Libraries amongst others. No mention was made of the use of Twitter support for libraries snowballs worldwide. The whole social web and everything that librarians and patrons have done, totally ignored even though they contacted some of these people.

Funny really, that when the BBC had to close Radio 6 the BBC loved pointing out people trying to stop the closure, using the voice of Jarvis Cocker to do so. No mention of the open letter by authors such as Philip Pullman, Kate Mosse & Michael Holroyd against closures.

Anyhow, for those who wish to complain about this dire reporting the link is here.

Bookseller has launched a website against public library closures

2011-01-18T19:00:00.002+01:00

Bookseller the British magazine reporting news on the publishing industry, has started a facebook page against closures entitled Fight For Libraries, campaign from The Bookseller. They also have a twitter address to.
The article says:-

The Facebook site hosts a manifesto and a set of demands, with The Bookseller supporting the calls for a national public enquiry into the library service, demanding a halt to the unfair and disproportionate targeting of libraries for cuts, and calling for the 1964 Libraries Act to be observed in letter and spirit. It also has a poll asking people to commit to supporting libraries.

"Libraries are under threat right now. A library lost today will not be re-opened tomorrow - the book trade has to take a stand," added Denny. "Please use the site to see what is going on and update it with developments in your own area. We'd like you to engage with our Facebook page, let us know who you are, give us your views and post useful links. Our campaign can offer a focal point for all interested parties and thereby form a stronger voice together."

Good to see the publishing industry getting behind librarians against library closures.

Allan Cho post on Library 2.0

2011-01-17T22:38:00.003+01:00

Allan Cho of Allan's Library blog has a post entitled Librarian 2.0? in which he points to a recent paper entitled Becoming 'Librarian 2.0': The Skills, Knowledge, and Attributes Required by Library and Information Science Professions in a Web 2.0 World (and Beyond) by Helen Patridge, Julie Lee, and Carrie Munro. I've not read the article (as i'm not at work and can get the publication there). Cho says :-

he authors' methodology is simple: focus groups of about 81 librarians to discuss what they think defines "Librarian 2.0." Although diverse, the answers are unnervingly clear and concise. He then list the six things that are 'unnervingly clear'. But I won't list them, as Alan puts them more concisely.

The Shallows, a book to read in my opinion

2011-01-17T22:14:00.003+01:00

I have just finished Nicholas Carr's new book The Shallows: How the Internet is Changing the Way We Think, Read and Remember. The book looks at the impact of our use of the internet upon our brain. The book also looks at how we have used our brains in the past in using books and even how Aristotle was against the written word. The book also looked at Neurological studies about how the brain trains itself to collect data from bboks, learning and the internet.
In looking at the Internet, Carr note's how the brain can not keep its mind on doing one thing, and how we multi-task. Also, how the Kindle is not just a Book in electronic form, but changes the whole way we read.
Really fantastc book that cheered me up (not). Hopefully, my next book, The Dumbest Generation: How the Digital Age Stupefies Young Americans and Jeopardizes Our Future (or, Don't Trust Anyone Under 30) will cheer me up?

Prospero books, Crouch end closes

2011-01-15T21:25:00.002+01:00

I was in Crouch End on Thursday and saw that Prospero Books had closed. It is a real shame, as it was a really small book shop, its such a gutter. I hate book shops closing.

The library game

2011-01-15T14:05:00.002+01:00

Speak Quietly blog has a post about a Librarian game described as follows:-

Shelving books may not sound very sporty, but if you have ever wondered how fast can you shelve a cart of books, then there’s now an app for that.

Last October, my wife and I began working with a developer to create a game just for librarians. The game is called “Sheleved” and it went live last week.

The game features three different modes of play: LOC, Dewey, and Alphabetical.

Its available on the Ipod and Ipad.

Happy 10th anniversary Wikipedia

2011-01-15T13:43:00.001+01:00

As many of you will know, Wikipedia is 10 years old today. Therefore, happy anniversary to all those who work on wikipedia.

Cornish libraries closures not this year

2011-01-12T12:07:00.002+01:00

Having previously mentioned closures within Cornwall public libraries, the Lanson Boy blog with the headline Cornwall Libraries 'not safe beyond this year'. In the article he writes:-

Cornwall's 29 libraries are not safe beyond the coming financial year. This was the statement made by Council Cabinet Member Joan Symons at today's full council meeting and confirms what Liberal Democrats have been warning for some time - that branches may have to close in order to meet Tory budget needs.

As I have blogged previously, the Council wants to make two sets of savings from the libraries and one stop shops budget. For the coming financial year, the plans are to make savings by moving one stop shops into library buildings and by buying books in a different way.

British Library hosts 2-day Wikimedia Editathon event

2011-01-12T11:33:00.002+01:00

Maybe late in the day but the British library is holding a British Library hosts 2-day Wikimedia Editathon this friday and Saturday (14.01.11 to 15.01.11). The site says of the event:-

Wikimedia and British Library join forces to improve content relevant to the Library on Wikipedia

The British Library, home to some of the world’s unique printed and written collections, is hosting a two-day Wikipedia ‘editathon’ on Friday 14 and Saturday 15 January. Co-organised by Wikimedia UK and the Library’s new Digital Research & Curator team, the event is aimed at sharing the expertise of real-world cultural institutions with wiki-knowledge. Details about the event can be found here.

Belated new year wishes

2011-01-10T12:54:00.002+01:00

I have only recently returned from Germany, and as yet not done any blogging, but just thought I'd wish everyone a happy new year.

Wohoo......200 posts in one year

2010-12-22T13:32:00.001+01:00

Ok, this is a rather 'none' post. But this is number 200 for the year. Who said bloggings dead

Congrats to Woodsiegirl on her need job

2010-12-22T13:27:00.002+01:00

Laura Woods has a new job according to her blog. I meet her a few times and hope the job is everything she's looking for. Best of luck.

Books to read for the new year

2010-12-22T10:55:00.003+01:00

Having mentioned previously what I had enjoyed reading previously, I thought I would say the books I hope to acquire and read. Anyhow, here goes.

1. Siva Vaidhyanathan The Googlization of Everything: (And Why We Should Worry), which is out on 07.03.10. I've been looking forward to this book since he mentioned it on his blog for the book in 2007. I read with interest his previous book The Anarchist in the Library: How the Clash Between Freedom and Control is Hacking the Real World and Crashing the System. Siva is often (fairly, I believe) of Google, so I think it'll be a pretty good read.

2. Nicholas Carr fairly new book The Shallows: How the Internet is Changing the Way We Think, Read and Remember. This book looks at the effect the Internet is having on society and on our brains.

3. Robert Darnton The Case for Books: Past, Present and Future. This I have ordered and was hoping to read whilst in Germany.

Anyhow, thats another list. Will I make the 200 post for this year? I'm still trying.......

Away in Germany for christmas

2010-12-22T10:38:00.002+01:00

I am (hoping) to be flying out to Nuremburg today, flying from Stansted at 8.05pm. I'll then be staying with my girlfriends parents until 03.01.11. Therefore, I'll be on holiday from tomorrow, enjoying the famous Nuremburg christmas market. Therefore, happy christmas and new year to all my readers.

February 2011, Library protests

2010-12-22T00:01:00.003+01:00

Library campaigners are to start protests during the month of February 2011. I'll keep you informed if their is anymore news, or better still check the voices of the libraries website.

Real Wikiman is writing a book

2010-12-20T21:01:00.004+01:00

The real wikiman has revealed he is writing a book. In the post he says the following:-

this isn’t a book about marketing the profession (or the industry) – it’s about marketing your specific library. So, I would absolutely love to hear what you think you’d like to see in such a book. Each chapter will be on a different theme, and they’ll all feature a case-study. I’m yet to finalise the proposal with Facet, so if you can give me your ideas quick I’ll try and make sure they’re addressed!.

Sounds interesting. He also asks anyone to send him any idea's, saying:-

I would absolutely love it if you can leave me some comments, or email me your thoughts if you’d rather it be private, and tweet a link to this post to encourage others to do the same (or share it on Facebook).

So I'll put my totally unoriginal idea's here. These idea's I expect Ned already knows. First up, read Brian Mathews Marketing Today's Academic Library: A Bold New Approach to Communicating with Students I suppose is the first step.

Secondly, ask Joanne Alcock about her dissertation which was about 'marketing in HE libraries in the UK'.

Thirdly, check Nancy Dowd's blog and Book called The Accidental Library Marketer.

Fourthly, Marilyn Johnson This Book Is Overdue!: How Librarians and Cybrarians Can Save Us All. I remember reading a chapter in the book that described a librarian at New York library and would introduce himself to authors, offering to assist them if needed. These would then assist him when setting up any financial events they may need for the library.

Anyway. I expect he knew this already.

Top 5 favourite books for this year

2010-12-20T13:39:00.003+01:00

Well, another list post of favourites for the year.

1. The Mechanical Turk: The True Story of the Chess-playing Machine That Fooled the World by Tom Standage. I had read Standage's other book The Victorian Internet, and found that fascinating. The mechanic turk looked at the eighteenth century wooden 'robot' that could play chess and win. Its interest inspired Charles Babbage to start work on a computer and even played Napoleon I.

2. 1968: The Year that Rocked the World by Mark Kurlansky. Again I read his previous book on Salt: A World History and Cod: A Biography of the Fish That Changed the World. Its the year of my birth, so I was interested to see what events did occur.

3. A History of the World in Six Glasses by Tom Standage. A really interesting book looking at the social, political and economic history of 6 beverages. These being, beer, wine, spirits, tea, coffee and coke.

4. Cognitive Surplus: Creativity and Generosity in a Connected Age by Clay Shirky. Shirky again looking at the impact of the digital generation sharing information online for the social good. Bit big society for my liking, but
some interesting points none the less.

5. Replay: the History of Video Games by Tristan Donovan. A fascinating read on the impact of video games worldwide (and not just the USA and Japan), as many others have followed.

Anyhow, thats my reading list.

5 UK Library stories of 2010

2010-12-18T13:56:00.003+01:00

Last year I did a blog post entitled 5 UK Library stories of 2009. So, being someone with an originality, I thought I would repeat the top five stories for this year. I do say, some may disagree with my choices, but its just my view point.

1. Last year at number 1 I had the CILIP 2.0 discussion, that Phil Bradley had started. Phil had discussed the need for change within CILIP. So much so that Phil is now Vice President of CILIP. It was interesting in it seemed to be very much a twitter campaign for canvassing. It was also good news for library professionals in the UK, in a year with very little cheer.

2. The creation of Voices for the library. Created as an advocacy site to stop the library public closures and underline what libraries offer, the site has even been mentioned within the Guardian after being online for just four months. The people working on it are doing an excellent job.

3. The real wikiman's post and presentation with Woodsiegirl entitled Escaping the Echo Chamber – presentation. Again, looking at how we can go beyond just talking to our own community of librarians to underline a librarians value to customers, society and the economy.

4. Thank you for not tweeting, was a post about tweeting at a CILIP event and how other users didn't like it and told people off (myself included).

5. And last but not least my own post entitled Good Library blog.....missing the point.....as usual in which I looked in which Tim Coates wrote an inflammatory post about library closures and his attempt at 'assisting' libraries from closing. 25 comment later, seems neither party could agree who was correct.

Well, thats it.

LibTeachMeet in Huddersfield in february 2011

2010-12-15T22:40:00.002+01:00

I was sent this email for the above event. Anyhow, here's the email in full:-

We’re holding a Librarian “TeachMeet” (idea from http://latnetwork.spruz.com/) in Huddersfield on 9th Feb 2011.

This will be a really informal opportunity for librarians who teach to get together to share tips and experiences.

If you come, be prepared to give a short (5 min at most) talk to share an aspect of your teaching. There will be “speed dating” to share tips and a lucky dip of teaching goodies to rummage through for inspiration.

The free event will be held at the University of Huddersfield from 14:00 to 16:30 on Wednesday 9th Feb. More details will appear on http://hudteachmeet.blogspot.com/ and http://bit.ly/eN32GF as we decide them.

Anyhow, would like to go but not sure.

Rules are rules

2010-12-15T12:11:00.002+01:00

I found this article via Jessamyn West blog which looked at Ed Bilodeau blog, with a post entitled Tired of your library being littered with food and garbage? Do something about it!. In the post he discusses patrons using phones, littering and eating within a library, even when there are signs saying these things are not allowed. I'm very much of the school that these rules should be adhered to, but other members of staff are less stringent. As I work within a prestigous research library the worst rule seems to be the need to use a phone. Constantly pointing people to phone use area's is a constant bind, but I feel these rules are there for a rule (the rule being people are studying within a peaceful environment). Many staff members are less fastidous than myself, but a dual policy of 'good cop, bad cop' often causes patrons to be confused by the message. Therefore, although people may complain I do enforce the policy.
Anyhow, any other librarians suffer similar difficulties?