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President's Blog
August 25, 2010
President's Column
It's almost September - and across California the change of seasons is beginning to show in the turning of green leaves into gold and brown, the slight hint of chill in the air - and in the harmonies of high schoolers fresh from their second week of school singing show tunes below the open library windows. That's right, steam punk-edged high-schoolers and "Les Miserables" - singing their hearts out and providing a memorable respite at the dwindling end of a very busy day.
These days I actively seek out these moments of light, joy and grace - mostly unexpected and always a call to be present - in the midst of our depressed economies, continued unemployment, rising cuts and increasing community divisions. Life seems so much harder now, for so many - and what we do, everyday, in our places of work, wherever they are, illuminates a path and guides a myriad of ways for our communities.
The shelter of libraries of all types (public, school, academic, law, special), the solace of words on a page, or sung full-voiced to a tune dancing invisibly in the air, the sustenance of an answer found and a connection affirmed, a smile and a nod that says "Welcome" - I treasure these moments and am proud to be in a profession, and a professional association, that supports and sustains our state through literacy, learning, sharing and community development - one person at a time.
For the past eight months of my Presidency, I have had the honor and privilege to work with a tremendous Board, hard-working and creative volunteers on committees, interest groups and CALTAC, and a staff that is eager to serve and grow CLA for the future. Together, we have learned a lot and worked towards a positive and forward-looking approach for CLA. We have faced external challenges, survived transition and seized remarkable opportunities.
State funding for public libraries survived two rounds of budget cuts in Sacramento - thanks to the expertise of CLA's paid lobbyists, the hard work of CLA's volunteer legislative and advocacy committee, and responsive professionals in the field. Working with our colleagues in county law libraries, an attack on their funding was turned away. CLA was tapped to support ballot language for a November ballot initiative protecting local funding from state "borrowing." And when a new State Librarian was selected, or libraries were closed in Colton, threatened in the bay area and northern state, CLA was there to assist local interests through letters, phone calls, media attention and collegial input.
CLA's educational opportunities have never been so robust. The "Spring Fling", supported by CLA Interest Groups across the state, brought library colleagues face-to-face to share best practices, learn and grow. Packard Foundation funding brought summer reading library and community demonstration projects to selected libraries across the state. A strengthened partnership with SJSU is a model for university and association relations, while partnerships with UCLA, Drexel (and hopefully others) are developing according to each institution's unique populations and needs. Together, with the California School Library Association, in November, we are unveiling the first truly collaborative statewide professional librarians' conference. What we have accomplished together has been truly "profession changing."
And we have done so in a year of budget challenges and business transition - for our members, colleagues and ourselves as an association. CLA budget challenges include reduced member library budgets statewide, meaning less money for staff memberships, travel and development, leading to fewer CLA members and 2009 Conference attendees and a significant decline in revenues to CLA from those sources. Increased one-time infrastructure costs, including upgrading the CMS provider (a new website will be under construction shortly), conference software (check out the 2010 Conference online tool Pathable for scheduling, networking, meeting presenters pre-conference...coming soon), improved membership tracking and financial tools, have also affected the bottom line.
The Board is committed to a balanced budget for this fiscal year and to working toward a long-term fiscal solution supported by responsible financial policies and increasing revenues. At the July Board meeting, the budget was referred to a Board Fiscal Stability Task Force and the CLA Finance Committee for August review and development of strategic realignment, working with staff to recommend a balanced budget for approval at the CLA Board meeting in mid-September.
Despite all these concerns I continue to listen for the sweet sounds of solace floating from the most unlikely sources: the rustle of a page, click of a mouse or clear, open voice of a high schooler, singing outside an open library - the most unlikely place, at a most unlikely time - not knowing that she or he has lifted me out of my "budget cuts daze", from my desk chair to an open window. Where I can feel the breeze, see the turning of leaves against the bits of blue breaking through the fog, know the seasons are changing - and open to the possibilities, which are all around us.
Kim Bui-Burton
Director, Monterey Public Library
CLA 2009-2010 President
The Monterey Public Library is an Institutional Member of CLA and directly supports our advocacy programs. Click here for more information on Institutional Membership.
Posted by claadmin at 10:32 AM
July 22, 2010
President's Column
Although the day is long and an evening City Council meeting awaits, I'm enjoying looking back to a remarkable couple of days last week, when the CLA Board and staff gathered for our first face-to-face meeting since last December. We conducted a quarterly Board meeting on Thursday afternoon, then spent most of Friday (with Rosario Garza's expert facilitation) thinking strategically about CLA's value and future. Our discussions were open, engaged, respectful and honest - and lots of fun besides!
At the Board meeting and planning retreat, we affirmed advocacy, at the state level, as one of the top priority areas that CLA delivers for members. Although, as with most libraries we represent, the CLA budget news was not good - the needs we see are great and far outstrip our funds- we are committed to sustaining CLA as a resource, and voice - for all California libraries.
This has been an amazingly active eight months. CLA transitioned to an Association Management company in December, and a new Executive Director in February. We are pioneering a new model of conference collaboration with the California School Library Association this November in Sacramento. CLA Committees and Interest Groups have been working hard, reaching out to members and key stakeholders, delivering a well-attended series of educational programs across the state for this year's "Spring Fling", seeking new ways of engaging with summer reading, representing library use throughout the state through a "snapshot" day this October, supporting future professionals through the Begun and Edna Yelland scholarships, Reference Press fellowship and the ALA Spectrum Scholars initiative, and more!
CLA has truly been a voice for California libraries this year. From coordinating with ALA to send a strong response to the closure of Colton libraries last winter, to testifying in support of the appointment of Stacey Aldrich as State Librarian this spring, to recent work with California county law libraries to head off a state revenue diversion from their funding stream - CLA has represented its membership well.
Despite a very dire and difficult state budget season, state funding for public libraries was not cut during this year's May Governor's Revise. Those of us in California's public libraries, CLA members or not, owe a huge round of thanks to CLA's lobbyists, Mike Dillon and Christina DiCaro, and CLA's active Legislative and Advocacy Committee, for protecting California library funding once again.
Mike and Christina also shepherded a request that is a testament to the power and visibility of library supporters across the state - CLA was asked to be a signatory to the Proposition 22 Ballot Argument for this November's election. The proposition would prohibit state "takeaways" from cities and counties - and would help municipalities maintain critically needed public services such as police, fire and libraries.
I want to send a HUGE collective thanks to the tremendous efforts of the CLA Board, CLA staff, Committees, Sub-committees, Task Force members, CALTAC - and CLA library supporters across the state who have given time, energy, and funds to keep alive the vision of California communities thriving due to California libraries of all types, sustained by California Library Association efforts small and large. We have done much - and we have much, much more to do. Stay tuned!
Kim Bui-Burton
Director, Monterey Public Library
CLA 2009-2010 President
The Monterey Public Library is an Institutional Member of CLA and directly supports our advocacy programs. Click here for more information on Institutional Membership.
Posted by claadmin at 10:30 AM
June 25, 2010
President's Column
One of my favorite poems, Meditation at Lagunitas, by one of my favorite poets, Robert Hass, begins "All the new thinking is about loss. In this it resembles all the old thinking." Given the library news that seems to be cascading through California, that just about sums up my feelings these days. Many public, school and academic libraries are facing unprecedented cuts ("This is even worse than Prop. 13 days" one long-time librarian remarked to me).
As the "great recession" continues with declining public revenues, increasing costs, high unemployment and no end in sight, communities of all kinds are facing even more difficult budget decisions this season, with even more dire consequences for the libraries and the constituents we serve.
Elementary school libraries in Natomas, an area close to CLA's administrative offices, have all been closed. The books and materials locked away, the staff dispersed or laid off. At Cal State L.A., during finals, students operated a makeshift "open library" after 8 p.m. outside the doors of the closed CSU library - its reduced hours due to budget cuts.
As for my place of work - Monterey Public Library - the end of one-time monies and a continued drop in hospitality, sales and property taxes will lead to layoffs and a 6-day-week open schedule later this summer. This will be the first time in over thirty years that the Library will not have a seven-day open schedule because of the loss of esteemed and dedicated library colleagues. I know this scenario is being replicated across the state, as public libraries, large and small, are looking at layoffs, slashed budgets and more closed hours.
And yet, in acknowledgment of the just turned Summer Solstice, and the abundance of light around us, I invite you to celebrate with me some remarkable successes.
Up north in Siskiyou County, after being faced with a "worst case" scenario of completely closing the entire library system and eliminating library services, access and connectivity (human and Internet) for an entire county, Interim County Librarian Lisa Musgrove, staff and library supporters should be congratulated for successfully keeping four branches open and services available for the next six months.
100% of public library-related ballot measures passed this June - benefitting the communities of Los Altos, Los Altos Hills, Marin County, San Anselmo, San Rafael and Woodside. State Library funding was preserved in the May 2010 "Governor's Revise", including reimbursements for resource-sharing and State Library services. Even my home town library of Pacific Grove, faced with possible closure last November, got a modest increase in its operating budget this June - and the parcel tax measure, which achieved more than a simple majority but lost by less than 50 votes, is likely to be on the ballot this fall for another try.
As we read in CALIX, in American Libraries and online, and as I and others will hear at ALA tomorrow through Monday, there are many recent library stories of successes and sad losses - and the whole roller coaster ride in-between.
"We must accept finite disappointment, but we must never lose infinite hope" said Dr. Martin Luther KIng, Jr. in 1966, quoted more recently this January by President Obama. Tonight, three days past the summer solstice and the longest day of the year, I hold these words to heart, and feel their light. I send them now to you.
Submitted to California Libraries by:
Kim Bui-Burton
Director, Monterey Public Library
CLA 2009-2010 President
The Monterey Public Library is an Institutional Member of CLA and directly supports our advocacy programs. Click here for more information on Institutional Membership.
Posted by claadmin at 12:59 PM
May 20, 2010
President's Column
A walk through downtown this afternoon - under blue skies! in the sunshine! - away from my office and computer and phone, made me realize that - yes - spring is here once again. And about time!
If April is the cruellest month, then May must be the hopeful one. My teacher librarian friends are counting down the days until school is out, students are giddy with "summer's-almost-here" energy and public librarians are gearing up for summer reading (work and) fun. Lucky folks are planning their summer adventures, while the rest of us are scribbling mental notes to pause in place for a staycation, or even just a luxurious morning off, with the to-do list deliberately left behind.
Summer day, summer day. Four simple words that taste to me of juicy peaches, crisp cherries and sweet-tart berries warm from the sun. That hold the glitter of endless waves stretching over and crashing into white foam, the dusty tang of pine needles and sage along a winding trail, the heat rising from asphalt, the soft warmth of late evenings by the canal. Satisfying slurp of nearly liquid ice cream against the tongue, crisp clink of ice cubes rattling in a glass, crickets chirping late into the night, rhythms flowing around an idling car, windows open and elbows flung out.
I'm holding onto these memories, reveries and hopes as I head towards yet another management meeting about budget woes, scaling back services and harder times ahead. No one is immune during this "Great Recession" - I am reminded every day by the growing number of unhoused, unemployed, unsettled visitors to the Library where I work, by the stories shared/whispered/overheard from family members, friends, friends-of-friends, colleagues, co-workers, the headlines on Google and the local news.
I hum "Hard times, hard times, come again no more" - a song by Stephen Foster from 1854 that seems most apropos now. I think about a terrific saying on a t-shirt (thanks to Stephen Abram and his blog Stephen's Lighthouse via Kathy Gould and her terrific blog, PVLD Director's Blog) from Eleanor Crumblehulme, a University of British Columbia library employee: Cutting libraries in a recession is like cutting hospitals in a plague.
And I gain great comfort today from two very different types of people. Wendell Berry's "The Peace of Wild Things" begins "When despair for the world grows in me", then builds into a strengthening, lyrical paean to the "peace of wild things" and the wildness around us. And Rolling Stone Keith Richard's quote: "When you are growing up there are two institutional places that affect you most powerfully: the church, which belongs to God, and the public library, which belongs to you" brings me back home to the ground I have chosen - my work and my place in the world.
Libraries of all types belong to all of us. Just like summer days, sunshine, wilderness and that most intangible, necessary, evanescent of feelings - hope. May you all find moments of presence, clarity and respite - time to take a breath, nourish yourself and forge onward - in the midst of these challenging times.
Kim Bui-Burton
Director, Monterey Public Library
CLA 2009-2010 President
The Monterey Public Library is an Institutional Member of CLA and directly supports our advocacy programs. Click here for more information on Institutional Membership.
Posted by claadmin at 1:00 PM
April 22, 2010
President's Column
California libraries have a proud tradition of being "green" - since 1849! By creating a "reading room" for the City of Monterey, and the first library in the State of California, the Monterey Public Library founders established a system of shared public good that also extended individual buying power and demonstrated wise use of resources (books, time, energy and space).
Fast forward to April, 2010. And imagine how many millions of times library items at California school, public, academic and special libraries have changed hands over the past 161 years - what an amazing amount of reuse! As one 20th century customer commented, the Library has saved "hundreds of dollars and hundreds of feet of storage space" for many in our community.
Our profession's commitment to "being green" has long extended through the life of a book, magazine, CD or DVD. Once it has been used "to death", and is shabby or worn, outdated or sits forlornly on a shelf for years, it's time to recycle it. Hardworking Friends of the Library groups around the state oversee used-book sales in halls big and spaces small (and help "green" library budgets - and we are grateful). And if all else fails, books and other materials can be physically transformed at waste management sites.
Libraries of all types have been early adopters of paperless pathways and solutions such as online catalogs, database resources, online Library card self-registration, email notification of overdues and holds, e-books available for check-out/ downloading and websites as 24/7 electronic branches. Saving energy, trees, natural resources and our community of users' time.
Across California's deserts, forests, coastline, cities and towns, school, public, academic and special libraries showcase energy-efficient lighting, green building features, native plant and low water landscaping, solar arrays - "environmental literacy" in action. We can lend, show and help our users learn. The Redwood Shores Community Library in Redwood City has a hands-on ecosystem exhibit center, while the Highland Sam J. Racadio Library Environmental Learning Center in San Bernadino County has an interactive trash truck and rescue wildlife.
Libraries of all types help sustain communities. As library staff and library supporters we can be proud of our efforts to share library resources with the community – and reduce, reuse and recycle - for the past century and a half. Happy 40th Earth Day - and many happy returns!
Submitted to California Libraries by:
Kim Bui-Burton
Director, Monterey Public Library
CLA 2009-2010 President
The Monterey Public Library is an Institutional Member of CLA and directly supports our advocacy programs. Click here for more information on Institutional Membership.
Posted by claadmin at 10:15 AM
April 12, 2010
Communities Thrive @ Your Library
That's this year's American Library Association slogan for National Library Week - a nationwide celebration of the value of all types of libraries, librarians and library workers. California's millions of residents and visitors depend on their libraries for lifelong literacy activities, computer and technology tools and support, help with homework, academic and life-enhancing research, pleasure reading, viewing and listening. And the direct services that only libraries provide in person and online.
Especially in these difficult times, California communities are surviving and thriving because of the presence of hundreds of academic, public, school and special libraries across the state - and thousands of skilled and knowledgeable librarians and library staff members working to keep them open and welcoming, rich with resources for all. Thank you, thank you to all!
It seems fitting to me to begin the 2010 National Library Week celebration with Happy Birthday wishes to one of California's library champions - children's author Beverly Cleary - who turns 94 today. Her first book for children, Henry Huggins, was published sixty years ago, and was followed by over 36 others, published in many different languages and different formats.
After growing up in a town too small to have a library, Beverly became a librarian. She then began writing children's books about children, parents and pets that children could recognize and enjoy, inspiring children, especially reluctant readers, to read. Beverly's love of books is celebrated on April 12 every year with a National Drop Everything and Read (D.E.A.R.) Day.
I promise to make time tonight to do just that! I hope that, in honor of Beverly Cleary and National Library Week, you can too.
Kim Bui-Burton
Director, Monterey Public Library
CLA 2009-2010 President
Posted by claadmin at 4:04 PM
March 24, 2010
President's Update from PLA
I'm at the Public Library Association Conference in Portland, Oregon - in tears - and with a message from musician Natalie Merchant to librarians everywhere - she just dedicated a beautiful and energetic version of her song "Thank You" to librarians everywhere.
Natalie is one of the many among us who grew up in libraries and was supported and inspired by librarians in her community. So, please take a moment to find the song "Thank You", listen and know it was sent to you this lovely Wednesday afternoon.
Kim Bui-Burton
Director, Monterey Public Library
CLA 2009-2010 President
Posted by claadmin at 3:20 PM
February 18, 2010
President's Column
Driving to work this past week felt like a marathon run - dodging Yield and Danger signs, maneuvering around potholes (growing deeper by the day) and rough patches, looking out for other drivers and walking distractions (Will that man on a cell phone notice that he's starting to cross against the red light? No!). When a car paused at a busy intersection to let me slip in, with a nod and a wave, however, my stressful morning lightened and the sun seemed to shine a little brighter. For a moment I felt as though I had an ally on the road, my breathing slowed down and my heart eased.
With my Library Director's hat on, life in California libraryland in 2010 sometimes feels like running that gauntlet. For many of us heading into even tighter budget seasons this spring it can seem that we are being asked to do the impossible. Cut more, cut further...and then start thinking about doing even more with less in the coming years. While we rethink and reduce, our communities' need for our services and resources grows. We know that public libraries are truly "first responders" (thank you, former ALA President Jim Rettig) for families, students, seniors, the un- and under-employed in our cities, towns and counties. We know that public, school, academic and special libraries provide essential "information infrastructure" support for community, education and business activities and success. We are our communities' guides, teachers and allies.
I live in the central California coastal town of Pacific Grove, where the local city library has suffered tremendous budget cuts and is now open four days for 24 hours a week. As I mentioned in my inaugural speech, a local property tax measure dedicated to the Library was on the ballot two days after the conference ended. 65.91% of the voters approved the $96 per year parcel tax; however, it failed to achieve the 66.67% vote required to pass, losing by 30 to 35 votes. I can't tell you how disheartening that felt to me, as a resident who values libraries and the public good - and as someone who has had my life changed by what the library makes possible.
Fast forward to Saturday, February 6 - a rainy morning in Pacific Grove. Over 100 residents of all ages met together for a Library Summit - using the "Open Space" model of gathering input and sharing ideas. The interest, enthusiasm and support was palpable, as was the investment in time, energy and creativity. The results of this meeting will hopefully lead the way for a revitalized library and city. As one attendee shared at the close of the meeting, "With all these ideas and all these people who care, I'm sure the Library will stay open. I'm not going to let it close."
With my California Library Association President's hat on, I send the same message to each of you - members, colleagues, library-serving agencies, organizations and associations. With all that we bring to our work, to our constituents, and our communities, "all these ideas and all these people who care", we will get through these tough times. And working together is definitely better than going alone. I was humming the children's song that I learned so long ago at the Pacific Grove Library storytime - "The more we get together, together, together; the more we get together the happier we’ll be" - as I turned into traffic and sent back a wave to my ally on our shared journey forward. Now I send that wave, and that hope, to all of you!
Submitted to California Libraries by:
Kim Bui-Burton
Director, Monterey Public Library
CLA 2009-2010 President
The Monterey Public Library is an Institutional Member of CLA and directly supports our advocacy programs. Click here for more information on Institutional Membership.
Posted by claadmin at 9:58 AM
January 21, 2010
President's Column
As I write this month's column, on a windy, storm-tossed morning in mid-January 2010 from my window above the Monterey Public Library's front door, I see glimpses of blue skies amid the advancing gray clouds. I watch rain on a distant hilltop, flying brown leaves and vibrant green new ones, bundled-up parents with small children, students and senior citizens pausing on the sidewalk as a fire engine blares away from the station, red lights flashing. For a moment, it feels as though we are in the eye of the great economic storm that surrounds us - the calm place after great upheaval and before the great unknown.
Make no mistake, these are discouraging and threatening times for California libraries and the communities we serve. Statewide budget turmoil affects every one of us - academic, law, public, school, special libraries and librarians - and our populations of users. National crises and international tragedies spill over into our neighborhoods, agencies and counties. "Everything is connected to everything else: as I learned in high school Ecology class - and I see expressed every day around me. And, while sobering, that simple fact also gives me great hope.
My feelings of optimism in the midst of such crisis and change may be partially due to the California Library Association's energetic and enthusiastic new Executive Director, Holly Macriss, who has accepted the position effective February 1, and the rest of CLA's hard-working association team. Holly has the experience and skill set to move CLA forward in these challenging times. I am very pleased that she has already begun working to bring herself up to speed on libraries; Holly attended the American Library Association Midwinter meeting in Boston this past weekend, has jumped into 2010 Conference planning and is rapidly getting acquainted with California's school, academic and special library organizations and communities. Holly will be introducing herself to all of you very soon - stay tuned!
Also brightening the horizon - the possibility of improved collaboration with California library schools and students, more chances to partner with other library associations, agencies and organizations on events and activities, expanded communication with CLA Interest Groups and all of you. Yesterday I was on a conference call with California Library Association leaders and California School Library Association leaders, preliminary to more specific conversations with CLA and CSLA leadership on ways we can better work together to advance our members' interests in these difficult times.
Those participants who traveled met in wet-and-windy Sacramento and the others called-in from storm-tossed southern and central California. Despite the statewide storm raging outside our meeting, inside we exchanged ideas, excitement and a shared sense of purpose for working together to improve educational opportunities for our memberships, increase communication and understanding between our respective groups and focus on commonalities, instead of differences. At CLA, we look forward to many more such conversations with all the library-serving agencies and organizations throughout California - and all of you. We will survive difficult times and Navigate the New - together!
Submitted to California Libraries by:
Kim Bui-Burton
Director, Monterey Public Library
CLA 2009-2010 President
Posted by claadmin at 9:52 AM
January 11, 2010
A Letter from the President
Dear CLA Members,
The "Navigating the New" theme for CLA continues as we embark on this new year and new decade. As you may have heard, our CLA Executive Director, Michael Reyna, was offered a position with the State of California one week and a half after joining the CLA Staff in December. The offer the State provided Mike was too good to turn down and his experience and expertise should prove invaluable to the State in this tough economic climate. The Board and I very much appreciate Mike's efforts towards CLA's transformation in his brief tenure, and we wish him all the best.
Over the holiday weeks I worked with Steve Hamilton, Director of CLA's new management firm, ARC, to identify additional candidates and with CLA Past President Barbara Roberts and Treasurer Jackie Griffin to review candidates. This past Friday we made our selection and have offered the position to an energetic, enthusiastic and skilled new Executive Director, Holly Macriss, who has accepted the position effective February 1. Please look for her introduction in early February!
Holly has the experience and skill set we were looking for to move CLA forward in these exciting and challenging times. She had worked with regional, state and multi-state medical, mortgage broker and small business associations. In the past year, alone, with her previous association, Holly strengthened the membership program, facilitated a long-range plan, website and e-communication redesign, managed all aspects of a regional conference, oversaw advocacy efforts, led a re-branding and marketing effort, provided board leadership and development training and supervised a staff of five.
I am very pleased that Holly will soon be working with the CLA Board, staff, volunteers and membership as we complete CLA infrastructure implementation, move our 2010 Conference planning into high gear, initiate strategic planning, reach out to all library-serving organizations in California, and focus on working with you - our members and supporters, new and long-term - to improve and strengthen CLA's value and services to California's library communities.
In the meantime, should you have any questions concerning CLA, please do not hesitate to contact me or the CLA office.
May the new year be filled with hope and health for all.
Kim Bui-Burton
Director, Monterey Public Library
2009-2010 CLA President
Posted by claadmin at 9:23 AM
November 25, 2009
President's Column
Hello California Library Association members!
As your President for 2009/10, I've had an eventful three weeks since the gavel was passed at Conference. From the unfortunate rupture with San Jose State University to the shocking closure of the City of Colton's libraries in Southern California to the successful recruitment of a strong and experienced Executive Director for CLA to the physical relocation of CLA's offices and transition to a new management structure - whew!
Thankfully, each of these adventures has been met with offers of help, great teamwork, problem-solving, kindness and goodwill. I am grateful to be working with so many others of talent and commitment across the state (and the country) to serve California communities, support California libraries, renew and revitalize CLA.
For those who were not able to attend the 111th Annual CLA Conference at Pasadena on November 1, I wanted to share an abbreviated version of my introduction of myself and my hopes for CLA the next year:
These are unprecedented times - for our communities, our libraries across the state, and for the California Library Association. We need to act creatively and realistically, envision a future beyond current limitations, and build toward that future. I applaud Past President Barbara Roberts, the Board and CLA staff for doing all of this during the past year.
Many of you may not know me. My name is Kim Ly Bui-Burton. I am the child of a first generation immigrant, and I share this heritage, and this poem I wrote for my father, with many of us living in California.
My Father's Pho
The broth is always steaming when I arrive;
oxtail-scented mist,
the way the morning began in his childhood,
fog rising off the Mekong,
the soup-vendor's cart close behind.
Pale half moons of onion - "oignon" -
that word the French forced on his tongue.
Ordered piles of beef:
"meat is a seasoning, not a meal."
Coriander's leafy green.
He remembers the colors steeping the hills,
add rice sticks, bleached as the stalks
harvested after American rain.
White ao dai, white bones.
The noodles curl thick in the pot.
All this my father gives me:
memory's meat; the salt of nuoc mam
and grief, heat of soup, his lost life.
He finishes with the sweetness of lime.
The first bowl is mine. I will eat.
I'm the Director at Monterey Public Library - the same library where I worked my first job - as a Page - when I was 16. As California's first Vietnamese-American Library Director (but not the last) giving back to CLA has long been something I've wanted to do.
Sixteen years ago, CLA took a chance on the future of a first-year San Jose State graduate student/single mom - me - by selecting me as a recipient of the Scholarship for Minority Students in Memory of Edna Yelland. That financial and professional support changed my life, as did the friendships and professional growth that CLA Conferences and activities have fostered and sustained. I am honored and humbled to be here.
And where is here? For CLA, this past year, and these past few weeks, has been one of challenge and change. In keeping with Past President Barbara Roberts' goals from last year, my focus is to continue the revitalization of CLA by:
- completing its infrastructure work
- expanding our relationships with other library organizations and stakeholders
- improving our value and usefulness to all of you - and your institutions and communities
- demonstrating respect, integrity, clarity and transparency in everything we say and do
When I think about library staff and library supporters across the state, I imagine that we live in the same world - communities struggling to survive difficult times; physical libraries as essential and poorly funded community anchors whether in cities, towns, rural areas, tribal lands, universities, community colleges, schools or businesses; residents young and old embracing and demanding technologies for productivity, creativity and connection; growing needs and shrinking resources.
But I can't be sure of that until I ask you - what are you facing? What do your communities need? What solutions have you found? What can your Library Association provide to transcend this difficult time?
With the help of the new Board you have elected to represent you in the year ahead, CLA's new Executive Director and increased CLA staff through our contract association management firm ARC, these questions will be asked - and answered - in the coming year.
We will invite our statewide library partners - including the State Library, InfoPeople, Califa, CALTAC, schools of library and information science, other library associations and more - to meet with the Board and myself to talk and think about how we will work more closely together.
We will reach out to all of you - professionals and paraprofessionals, community volunteers, new and seasoned CLA members, committees, interest groups and allies - so that your voices are heard in CLA's strategic planning process. The plan that we create - together - will set the course for CLA for the future.
As California libraries and California library supporters, we must act together. Our missions and populations may be different and diverse, yet they are overlapping. These differences cannot, must not, divide us.
Our strength comes from our diversity, our commitment to shared values, literacy and lifelong learning, our history, our dedication, our passion. I ask each of you to bring your whole self to the table for CLA as we join together to shape our future. Together, we will Navigate the New!
Kim Bui-Burton
CLA President
Posted by claadmin at 9:30 AM
November 18, 2009
CLA President Issues Statement on Closure of Colton Public Library System
SACRAMENTO - The City of Colton may permanently close its library system, leaving more than 51,000 residents without local library services until further notice.
Colton city leaders have chosen to close its public library system in an effort to save $4 million in the current fiscal year. No date has been given as to when the City's libraries will reopen.
The timing of this closure conflicts with statewide increases in library usage and demand. According to California Library Association President, Kim Bui-Burton, "in this difficult economy, Colton's two libraries and homework center are the heart of support for the city's residents."
Ms. Bui-Burton adds that Colton's libraries "provide literacy and lifelong learning activities for all ages, through academic enrichment for students and economic advancement for adults and businesses. In addition, the libraries provide free access to the Internet for job searching and application.
"The Colton libraries are a welcoming community place where limited public resources can be widely shared and benefit all.
"CLA recognizes the extraordinary difficult financial situation faced by the City of Colton and many other California communities. There are no easy solutions, only painful choices. Cutting library support should not be one of these choices."
The California Library Association appeals to the City of Colton to seek whatever remedies are possible to keep their libraries open and communities served. Ms. Bui-Burton adds that "it is hoped that library service can be restored so that the information lifeline that citizens desperately need in these times of crises will be there for them."
About the California Library Association
Established in 1895, the California Library Association is a 501(c)(3) non-profit association that provides leadership for the development, promotion, and improvement of library services, librarianship, and the library community. CLA helps its 3,000 members excel in a fast-changing job market and is a resource for learning about new ideas and technology. Furthermore, CLA is a leading advocate on all statewide library
issues and actively works to influence legislation affecting libraries and librarians. Governed by an elected Board of Directors, CLA is headquartered in Folsom, California.
More information may be obtained at www.cla-net.org
Printable Press Release (116 K)
Posted by claadmin at 9:29 AM
November 6, 2009
A Message from the CLA President
At CLA, we fully embrace the fact that our student members are the library community's future as well as the future of our organization. We welcome student engagement in all aspects of CLA, and commit to increasing avenues for communication, learning, development and growth for student members from all institutions.
Although we understand that SJSU student membership sponsorship has been discontinued we want all CLA/ALA student members from the spring and fall semesters to know that we will be honoring you as full members and that you will continue to receive CLA benefits during this transitional period. Our goal is to ensure that there will be no disruption in membership benefits. We are also seeking out new and innovative ideas for reaching and supporting students throughout California - and welcome your suggestions.
As new information evolves, please check back with CLA's blog, Facebook, and twitter pages for the latest information regarding this transition.
Kim Bui-Burton
CLA President
Posted by claadmin at 7:17 AM
October 27, 2009
President's Column
If it's October it must be fall (although here in the Palm Springs desert it's still in the low 90s!) and time to start thinking of costumes, candy and CONFERENCE! The final conference program is getting spruced up, last minute program changes are being made and scripts are being written. I hope everyone has taken a moment to note in the preliminary program the sessions they cannot miss and are busily planning their conference experience.
I can't wait to begin the conference with a big, joyful, and therapeutic belly laugh with Paula Poundstone as a way to bring to an end to this year of transition and change. I am very happy to report that all of the governance transition is nearly complete. Your Board of Directors made the necessary decisions in September and October to finalize all the loose ends as a result of our bylaws changes and Executive Director recruitments.
In September the Board approved a contract with Association Resource Center (ARC) of Folsom, CA to manage CLA. The contract assures that CLA will have the ability to end the relationship when we are ready, hire our Executive Director and take the Executive Director with us if/when we leave ARC. In the meantime when the contract becomes effective December 1, 2009 ARC will immediately increase CLA's staff to 3.8 FTE, provide modern office space, equipment and computer infrastructure and allow a new Executive Director and the Board to concentrate on planning for a bright future. The CLA office will move from Sacramento to Folsom.
The CLA Board of Directors is currently working with ARC to recruit for a permanent Executive Director. Final interviews should conclude in November. To obtain the most current, up-to-date information, make a point of attending the Second General Session and Membership Meeting on Sunday, November 1st, from 3:15pm to 4:45pm. At this meeting, you can catch up on all that has happened this year before hearing from the "Unshelved" duo of Barnes and Ambaum on "Surviving the Public."
As I pass the presidential gavel to Kim Bui-Burton, I am confident that your Board has made the right decisions for CLA at this time. CLA will be advancing into the next year in a healthy and proactive position, poised to plan ahead for future growth.
Please join me in Pasadena to celebrate our resilience and strength as an organization. CLA rocks!
On your mark, get set, get ready---GO TO CONFERENCE 2009!
Submitted to California Libraries by:
Barbara Roberts
CLA President
Posted by claadmin at 11:11 AM
September 23, 2009
President's Column
As conference comes ever closer, I am upbeat about registration and the potential for a really great conference. Thanks to Richard Berta at our CLA office, we now have weekly registration statistics. Compared to registration last year at this time for the San Jose Conference, numbers are up 10.5%! It is heartening to know how valuable conference is to our members despite the economy! So if you have not yet registered, consider doing so and come network with your colleagues. And remember the fun events and tours available. If you have just a few mad dollars to spend, the CLA's special events are a good bargain for a great time. Also, we have also just received confirmation that ALA President, Camila Alire will be at conference making a presentation on advocacy on Monday at 9 am. We will be pleased to have her join us.
I have been contacted by some Interest Group chairs who are already planning their year ahead. Many are interested in some sort of virtual option which is not only green but smart. The availability of the technology infrastructure for a truly virtual interest group is still pending until CLA has offices and staff that can accommodate it. However, in the interim, Groups are using conference calling, "Go to Meetings" and other creative options. For any CLA member who would like to form a new Interest Group contact the CLA office for information. I will be attempting to join all Interest Group meetings being held at conference to share your enthusiasm and hear about what you want to do.
CLA is in preliminary contract negotiations with the Association Resource Center, the association management company that may run our operations. The CLA Board will discuss the draft contract during a telephone conference meeting on September 24th and begin final negotiations for a planned decision by Conference. The Finance Committee has already reviewed the fiscal impact of the draft contract. In addition, the Board is very much aware that we need to find a permanent Executive Director and will also be discussing how best to achieve that.
It is my pleasure to be able to share that CLA is now an Associate Member of the Urban Libraries Council. This membership will allow CLA complete access to all the member benefits including events, committee participation, discussion listservs and research publications. ULC will be offering their Foresight 2020 Initiative as one of the Unconference topics in Pasadena. It is my hope that having access to all the research done by this remarkable organization will allow CLA to share ULC findings as appropriate with all CLA members, many of whom do not meet the membership criteria to be members individually. CLA also encourages any library meeting their membership criteria to become a member and increase California membership in this organization.
Your three presidents - current, immediate past and president-elect - are all busy with appointments and nominations. I am nearly complete with my appointments to the new Leadership Development Committee. Monique and her nominations committee are very close to having a slate for the regular election and Kim is working hard on her committee appointments for next year. I know I speak on behalf of all three of us when I say THANK YOU to all who have agreed to serve or stand for election. This state is blessed with CLA members who care about the organization, who believe in working together and are so very generous with their time.
I am so excited that we now have an electronic newsletter and I hope that you all forward it on to colleagues or fellow staff that may not be members. It’s a great way to understand what's going on with CLA as well as a way to introduce the possibilities of CLA to others. Please give me your feedback and share what you hear from others so we may make this member benefit the best it can be.
Submitted to California Libraries by:
Barbara Roberts
CLA President
Posted by claadmin at 9:59 AM
August 14, 2009
President's Column
Have you found yourself wondering, "What the heck is going on at CLA?" Well my colleagues and friends, herewith is a detailed rundown of what's happened and what's next. I want to get you all up to speed.
Your leadership and task forces have been BUSY!
Task Force Work
Immediately after I took office at conference in San Jose last year, I appointed two task forces: a Technology Task Force headed by Gerry Calderon and a Transition Tool Kit Task Force headed by past president Margaret Miles. Both task forces completed their work. The Transition Tool Kit was distributed to members for help in understanding the upcoming bylaws changes and what it would mean to the structure of CLA and is available on the CLA website. The Technology Task Force's report to the Executive Committee recommended internal changes in hardware and software for CLA and is being used as an internal working document.
Sale of the CLA building and New Office
At the completion of Interim Executive Director Claudia Foutz's Business Assessment Report (8.2 MB), the Executive Committee made the fiscally sound decision to sell the midtown office building CLA had owned for many years. At the time the building was purchased it was envisioned as having excellent investment potential and a possible source for non-dues revenue. Over time, however, the building required various unexpected improvements that detracted from the anticipated non-dues revenue estimates. Continued ownership also required a substantial investment in improvements to bring the building into compliance with ADA legal requirements. However our mid-town Sacramento location remained in well sought after in the commercial real estate market. Without even listing the building, CLA received a competitive cash offer, with no contingencies, and at the close of escrow reaped over $350,000 in profit. These funds will be extremely important as we move forward in re-positioning CLA.
Interim ED, Claudia Foutz, found excellent office space to rent in the Natomas area of Sacramento, close to the airport and downtown. Through her association connections, for $1,000 a month we have office space that includes full janitorial support, furnishings, two offices, two cubicles, access to IT support, and use of one large and one small conference room. The CLA offices relocated to this space at the end of April. The new address and phone number are listed elsewhere in this newsletter issue. Of note, we share the building with the owner, the California Pharmacy Association.
Executive Director Recruitment
The Executive Board has completed two full recruitment cycles for a new Executive Director. It became clear, however, that before we can hire a new Executive Director, we must have adequate staff and infrastructure to support that person. Shortly after Claudia Foutz came on board as the interim ED, the administrative assistant moved out of state and Laura Fisher, the Administrative Director, became an independent consultant. However, Laura agreed to continue to work for CLA two days a week, and Richard Berta, with a degree in marketing, joined CLA as a full-time employee dealing with membership, communications, and marketing. The current staff now consists of Richard, full time communications, marketing and membership person, Laura, part bookkeeper/transition staff support, and Claudia, part-time Interim ED. Remaining fiscally prudent, CLA is delaying further hires until a new transition plan is completed.
Association Management Firms
In order to find an interim solution to CLA staffing and support needs, the CLA Board issued an RFP for an association management firm to take over operational support of our programs. The Board was looking for a firm that would have all the in-house staff needed to support a new executive director until such time as CLA is financially able to expand and hire its own in-house staff. Four responses were received, evaluated, and thoroughly considered. The Board voted to enter into negotiations with the Association Resource Center (ARC) who has over 45 support staff serving 19 associations. ARC is located in Folsom. Interim ED Claudia Foutz's contract has been extended for no longer than March 2010 to help with transition. ARC and Claudia will support my Conference Committee in providing you with an exceptional conference experience. At the same time, we will be working with ARC to continue the search for a permanent Executive Director.
Special Election
A special election was held in July for a new Vice-President/President Elect due to the resignation of Ken Haycock from that position. Kim Bui-Burton, Director of Library, Museum and Cultural Arts in Monterey won that election and has jumped into all the duties with only three months until she takes office as President.
Regular Election
The regular annual election will be held in September this year. The current Nominations Committee, headed by Immediate Past President, Monique le Conge, is working toward having a candidate slate ready. This year, due to the bylaws changes, as well as term expirations, we will be electing: Vice-President/President-Elect for 2011, Treasurer, and 6 at large members to fill out the new Board of Directors. If you would be interested in any of these positions, or know of someone you would like to nominate, please contact Monique at monique_leconge@ci.richmond.ca.us
In addition, as Vice-President, Kim is beginning her standing committee appointments and as President I am beginning to form the new Leadership Development Committee. There will be a call for volunteers for committees coming from the CLA offices, but feel free to contact either Kim or me, respectively, if you are interested in serving on the standing committees (Legislative, Finance, and all award committees) or the Leadership Development Committee. The Legislative Committee was not named a standing committee in the new Bylaws, but Kim will be making appointments will be made to that all-important group that will now be a Working Committee.
Conference 2009
Then of course, in addition to all this activity, the 2009 Conference Committee has been working incredibly hard to ensure that even with the economic down turn, shortage of CLA staff, and the fact that Halloween falls in the middle of conference, we will provide the best opportunity for all of us to get together for education, networking and rejuvenation. Early registration is open at 10% less than last year. I hope you all consider this investment in yourself and your staff and register for conference. I look forward to seeing you all in Pasadena!
"Reach Out!" Electronically
This newsletter, along with CLA's presence on Facebook and Twitter is our first foray into communicating with members quickly with 21st century tools. Our only full time staff member, Richard Berta, is to be commended for pulling us quickly into these mediums. I hope many of you are following along on Facebook and Twitter. I know our Second Life members are interested in having a CLA presence there too. And let me know if you'd be interested in being a Twitter "reporter" at conference this year!
State Librarian Vacancy
On behalf of CLA, I have sent a letter to Governor Schwarzenegger asking him to consider quickly filling the vacant State Librarian position now that the State has a budget. A response was received acknowledging the letter and thanking CLA for stating the importance of this appointment. Some Governor appointments are being made at this time, so let's hope this will be one of them.
Coming soon will be a strategic planning process complete with a membership/program gap analysis and SWOT that will be actively incorporated into the goals of the Board and reviewed by every future Board. This should result in continuity of purpose and forward movement. CLA is poised to develop into the incredible umbrella library professional organization it was always meant to be. We want to honor the past, and keep all that transfers into the future and modify where appropriate for transition and growth. This planning process will result in a dynamic strategic business and operational plan. There is much to do, but I know that with the continued support of all of you amazingly time generous members, CLA will rise to meet all your expectations.
Please let me know your comments, suggestions, questions and concerns at any time: barbara.roberts@palmsprings-ca.gov
Submitted to California Libraries by:
Barbara Roberts, CLA President
Posted by claadmin at 3:08 PM
July 15, 2009
President's Column
By Barbara Roberts, CLA President
Hello CLA!
Welcome to the first ever CLA electronic newsletter. Isn't it about time?
It is the purpose of this communication to "Reach Out!" to keep all members up to date on what's happening in CLA, libraries within the state, interest groups within CLA, CLA Board of Directors actions, CLA legislative reports and act as a forum for sharing not only news, but ideas and information as well.
Registration for this years conference will open soon! The conference committee has made a concerted effort to make this year's conference green, more pocketbook friendly, as well as providing a can't-miss educational and networking event. This year, we will continue to encourage online registration and thus save paper. Additionally, we have lowered fees for early-bird registration by 10% to reflect the budget cutbacks that all libraries are feeling. Take a good look at the offerings and we hope that we see you in Pasadena in October!
Certainly the big items on the table right now are the State budget and the President's Stimulus package. Check out the legislative news columns in this newsletter for the latest. And be sure to check out www.knowyourstimulus.org for the latest on the broadband stimulus funds application process.
The State's Broadband Task Force and Advisory Committees have been formed and librarians are at the table! Stacey Aldrich, Acting State Librarian, will be appointed to the task force. Additionally, through member recommendations, the CLA Board of Directors, nominated Stephanie Sterling Brasley, Manager, Information literacy Initiatives, California State University, Office of the Chancellor, Long Beach, to the Advisory Committee. I'm sure we will be hearing from them on the process for - and the progress of - broadband applications.
The election for our new Vice-President/President-Elect is so important for the continuity of CLA business. I hope you all voted and want to take this opportunity to thank both candidates for agreeing to run.
The search for the next CLA Executive Director and Association Management firm is still in process and I hope to have news for you about that in the next issue of this e-newsletter.
My thanks for the revival of California Libraries go out to CLA's Richard Berta, Membership & Marketing Associate, and Claudia Foutz, Interim Executive Director. It is their energy and creativity that made this publication happen. I also want to thank the IT Task Force, headed by Gerry Calderon, IT Manager at Sacramento Public, for their research and recommendations.
Please share what you think about this method of communication, both in form and content. Is it helpful? What would you like to see that isn't here or what do you think is superfluous? Do you feel it is a valuable member benefit? Email me and let me know: barbara.roberts@palmsprings-ca.gov
Please forward this newsletter to friends and colleagues who are not members; it might just pique their interest in joining. And do also share it with your jurisdictions so the benefits of institutional benefits can be better appreciated.
CLA wants to be relevant to you as members. We hope this e-newsletter is just the beginning of ways that we can do that. Enjoy!
Posted by claadmin at 9:31 AM
September 5, 2008
From the President: Voted, Yet?
Yes, the time for voting in this year's CLA election is winding down. Have you voted yet? If you have already done this, thank you very very much.
If not, why not? No doubt, you've received a postcard, numerous e-mails, and perhaps given it some thought.
Today, I invite you to do something for your fellow members and for your own membership - cast your vote!
Continue reading "From the President: Voted, Yet?"
Posted by Monique le Conge, 2008 CLA President at 4:24 PM
June 23, 2008
From the President: What Are You Doing Friday Night?
Because play before work is never a bad idea, I wanted to be sure that all you know you are invited to attend a small reception in Anaheim on Friday, June 27, 5-7 pm, at the Anaheim Marriott, 700 West Convention Way. State Librarian Susan Hildreth and I hope that you will stop in the bar to meet, greet, and mingle...and gear up for a great conference!
No RSVP needed - we'll see you there. And because this is not an "official" event, if you are in the Anaheim area, please drop in...even if it's after work!
Posted by Monique le Conge, 2008 CLA President at 5:22 PM
June 13, 2008
From the President: What's Going On!
It's been a while since I've blogged, since it's a busy time of year. It's also been a busy time for CLA, and I don't think it will get any easier until after ALA. I'm looking forward to visiting Anaheim and hope that you will be able to take advantage of the national conference, even if it's just to visit the exhibits for a day.
As we prepare for ALA's visit to the West, CLA made sure that you can find out about programs of particular interest to California libraries. Visit the "ALA in California" message boards to post programs that you feel no one should miss, find a roommate if you need one, and arrange to meet up for coffee. Be sure to keep checking back - new items are added all the time.
The ALA message board is just one of a few message boards that serve as a way to connect with others around specific interests. I hope that you will look at them and take advantage of this useful resource.
Continue reading "From the President: What's Going On!"
Posted by Monique le Conge, 2008 CLA President at 3:29 PM
May 9, 2008
From the President
Last week, I attended the Eureka! Leadership Institute as a mentor, to work with 36 library leaders in CA. It was an inspiring week, allowing me to work on strategic thinking, as well as to think about the library and how we meet our goals and how best to express my thoughts on my library's vision, and my vision for libraries throughout California. (I was able to do this even though I wasn't an attendee!)
What a great opportunity to think about libraries nearly 100% of the very very full days (most went from 8 am - 9:30 pm), while mentoring and learning from those who were attending. It made me realize how important and rejuvenating networking, learning, and stretching yourself professionally can be. If at all possible, plan to attend the CLA Conference in November, but also ALA in Anaheim this June. The days that I spent were exhausting, but I came home exhilarated and ready to express my vision to my staff, supervisors, supporters, and elected officials.
Continue reading "From the President"
Posted by Monique le Conge, 2008 CLA President at 5:09 PM
April 18, 2008
From the President: My Legislative Day(s)
This week, I was involved with CLA meetings and Legislative Day. On Tuesday, April 15, the CLA Assembly and the CLA Executive Committees met. Then, on Wednesday, April 16, I participated in the annual Legislative Day activities. It was a lovely, cool day in Sacramento, and while the legislative news is not great, I feel that the visits were successful.
Continue reading "From the President: My Legislative Day(s)"
Posted by Monique le Conge, 2008 CLA President at 12:19 PM
April 4, 2008
From the President: Legislative Day
As you no doubt have heard, Legislative Day is coming up and you still have time to sign up to participate. I hope that many of you who have never attended will make the time to come to Sacramento and join us as we talk with legislators and their staff members about libraries and how the legislators themselves affect us on a local level.
Continue reading "From the President: Legislative Day"
Posted by Monique le Conge, 2008 CLA President at 4:22 PM
March 14, 2008
From the President
I now understand what a challenge it is to write a blog. Weekly is a huge challenge for me, so I'm appreciative of the folks who write more often. My kids tell me that I should be a little easier on myself, since I do so much: in addition to representing all of you for CLA, I have a day job as Director of Library & Community Services for the City of Richmond (I'm in charge of the following departments: Library, Recreation, Arts & Culture), teach a class online for the School of Library & Information Science at San Jose State University, am on the board of a library foundation (OK, that might not count, since it's part of my employment) and yes, have 3 teenagers. In the past three years, I've learned (& love) to play golf. I work on my house, and try to exercise daily. What's that saying about asking busy people to do something, so that you'll get it done?
This coming Monday, March 17, 2008, though, is one of my happiest moments.
Continue reading "From the President"
Posted by Monique le Conge, 2008 CLA President at 2:10 PM
February 15, 2008
From the President
This week I attended the two-day Symposium for Chief Staff Executives and Chief Elected Officers (CEO Symposium) presented by ASAE (American Society of Association Executives) & The Center for Association Leadership. Each year, Sue Negreen, CLA Executive Director, the President, and the Vice-President/President-Elect attend this symposium to help build relationships, discuss priorities for the coming year, and learn how to better communicate with each other, the Assembly and Executive Committee, and the members. It is an intense time, with lots of information about associations and how they operate, trends, and management styles. By the end of the second day, my brain felt stuffed with information, just as it did last year.
Continue reading "From the President"
Posted by Monique le Conge, 2008 CLA President at 1:43 PM
February 1, 2008
From the President
The Executive Committee met on January 23 at the San Leandro Public Library. As many of you know, one item on the agenda was the proposal for reorganization of CLA. A few of you have e-mailed me, wanting to know what happened? what are we doing next?
Continue reading "From the President"
Posted by Monique le Conge, 2008 CLA President at 5:15 PM
January 25, 2008
From the President
Today I was able to meet with staff in Don Perata's office as part of Day in the District, along with a group of representatives from libraries in Oakland, Albany, Alameda City, Alameda County, and Contra Costa County. (If I've forgotten anyone, please forgive me!) Even with the rainy weather, it was a nice meeting. Did you make a visit today? Are you making one next Friday? There's still time to sign up!
Continue reading "From the President"
Posted by Monique le Conge, 2008 CLA President at 7:09 PM
January 18, 2008
From the President: CLA Enters the Virtual World: a New Communication Mechanism
Just back from the ALA Midwinter meeting in Philadelphia, where I explored all kinds of new technologies and ideas. Even the networking was so beneficial that I'll have to go through the business cards I've collected like baseball cards! However, I do want to follow up on something that I briefly mentioned a week or two ago:
The CLA Executive Board has approved an exciting new pilot project to use the technology of Second Life, a 3 D virtual world, to support the work of the CLA Mentoring Committee, its mentors and protégés. Connie Costantino, current chair, CLA Mentoring Committee, and Sandra Vella are the co-coordinators and originators of the pilot project which will train interested CLA mentors and protégés in navigation and communication within Second Life in order to hold regularly scheduled meetings there.
Continue reading "From the President: CLA Enters the Virtual World: a New Communication Mechanism"
Posted by Monique le Conge, 2008 CLA President at 3:30 PM
January 7, 2008
From the President
Happy New Year!
I hope that each one of you has had an enjoyable and safe holiday season. This time of year leads me to think about a New Year's Resolution or two, not only for myself, but also for my library. In fact, in one library where I've worked, at the first staff meeting of the year, the staff would write their resolutions on a sheet of paper, put them in a sealed envelope, and the director would store them until the following year. It was interesting to see how many of my resolutions would have to be carried over into the next year, and whether I'd forgotten any. Those big resolutions that carried over took some time and serious effort. It was a great way for me to set my goals, prioritize what was really important to me, and make an effort to get those things done.
Continue reading "From the President"
Posted by Monique le Conge, 2008 CLA President at 1:08 PM
December 21, 2007
From the President
As you may guess, this time of year only seems slow. You may be experiencing the same thing. I like the idea of "down time" but can't seem to really feel it. There is still too much of the day-to-day work to catch up. When I found myself cleaning my desk this week, I knew that I must be procrastinating, putting off all the work that I need to get done, but don't usually have the time to complete.
Continue reading "From the President"
Posted by Monique le Conge, 2008 CLA President at 4:26 PM
December 14, 2007
From the President
Even though it is the holidays, and we have wrapped up a great conference, many committees are busy, working on ideas and coming up with some great new projects. Thank you to everyone who has volunteered to serve on a committee. I am done with the appointments, and anyone interested in volunteering can plan on submitting the volunteer form so that Vice-President/President-Elect Barbara Roberts can place you on a committee.
The 2008 Conference Planning Committee met last week for the first time to begin planning the next conference. As you can no doubt guess, it is a lengthy process, requiring concentrated effort from this group of people. If you have a program idea, get ready! We will be asking for the proposals this spring. If you will recall, the theme will be "Leading the Way." Leadership is an idea that can be hard for some folks to understand, and for others, comes naturally. I believe that leadership comes at all levels in an organization, so I'm looking forward to a great conference with ideas for everyone in your library.
Continue reading "From the President"
Posted by Monique le Conge, 2008 CLA President at 4:10 PM
December 10, 2007
From the President
If you are reading this, you might have noticed that you can now post comments on the blog. Woo Hoo! I urge you to take a moment to submit posts, especially about the proposed governance structure changes. It will be a great help to the Executive Committee and the Assembly as we discuss this idea. Hearing from you will help us decide on our strategies, and whether to even go forward with this proposal. The dialog among members is just one of the things that I think will be make the blog more relevant, timely, and useful.
Continue reading "From the President"
Posted by Monique le Conge, 2008 CLA President at 3:41 PM
December 3, 2007
From the President
I've had the luxury this week of being able to think about the future. I'm tremendously jealous of folks who can justifiably call themselves futurists. My work does not usually allow me to think about the future; I'm too pressed upon by the day-to-day necessities of running the library, recreation, and arts & culture. However, it's a good practice for all of us, imaging what could be, given the trends that emerge in demographics, society, technology, politics...you name it.
Continue reading "From the President"
Posted by claadmin at 8:23 AM
November 26, 2007
From the President
It's the day after Thanksgiving, and I'm still recovering from the food. Or, should I say, the leftovers. Which makes this a great weekend to get caught up on some reading. As a library director, I have to make time to read. Sad, but true. I should specify that this is "leisure" reading, since the volume of reading that I'm willing to bet all of us must do for work would keep most people busy well into their retirement years. I was jealous of anyone who had time to read for "fun." My book club even tired of hearing how I hadn't finished that month's book! Then I made time and read So Many Books, So Little Time by Sara Nelson, which made me think even more about how I wasn't reading.
Continue reading "From the President"
Posted by claadmin at 9:15 AM
November 16, 2007
From the President
As many of you know, CLA has been talking about its governance structure. CLA conducted a survey to get an idea of how you all felt about CLA membership: how you participate, why you are a member, and how you think we can improve. Following that, a task force, appointed last year by Margaret Todd, worked on different possibilities and perspectives, having long conversations about CLA's relevancy and future. It was not an easy discussion, but an interesting, lively, and important one.
Continue reading "From the President"
Posted by claadmin at 9:41 AM
November 9, 2007
From The President
How long have you been a member of CLA? How did you decide to become a member? Was it when you were a library school student? A rookie librarian? Or did your library sign you up? CLA is as good as the members it has. It has always been so. The CLA staff does a great job of keeping us moving on a day-to-day basis, but the membership helps steer the ship, as well as getting the work of the organization done. Thank you, by the way, for helping!
Continue reading "From The President"
Posted by claadmin at 5:57 PM
November 2, 2007
From the President
Welcome to 2008! Well, that may be a little premature, but taking the gavel (which I promptly left in the convention hall) at the end of October already has me thinking about next year. So I think I'll slow down. The week following a conference is always a busy time. Never mind that I need to catch up on my day job, but there are also details to wrap up following the conference (have you completed your evaluation yet?), and planning to begin for the upcoming year. And, there are all the great ideas that pop into my head when attending such an interesting and thought-provoking conference. This creates more work, because I want to try out new projects or services, talk about the ideas with stakeholders, and share what I've managed to remember with my staff. Whew! Inspiration can be exhausting, but I never can get enough.
Continue reading "From the President"
Posted by claadmin at 4:01 PM