Bridget loves to lay on the brick pathway and soak up some sun. Silly dog.
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Mmmmmmm, berries
Summer is definitely here! I managed to get out to Spooner’s Strawberries and score a flat before they were sold out for the day. It took a few days to get out there early enough to not drive up to the “Sold out. More tomorrow” sign that always makes my heart droop a bit. For those who don’t live here and can’t experience the sweet, juicy goodness for themselves, I’ve included a picture so you all can drool over them. These berries are locally grown and the best strawberries you might ever taste. Their arrival usually sends the Olympia area into a frenzy to buy, eat and store up as many as we can before the season is over all too soon. Definitely a mark of summer here in South Sound.
Why the fork, you ask? Well I wouldn’t want to get my keyboard all sticky, would I?
Now to settle in to read some more of George Vancouver’s descriptions of his exploration of the Straits of Juan de Fuca and Puget Sound – fascinating stuff! But more about that later…
Sunday, June 21, 2009
In celebration of Father's Day
We pick today to celebrate our fathers, when in reality every day is a celebration and acknowledgement of how marvelous and wonderful our family is and at the head of that collection of individuals is our beloved JDC.
El Padre should be proud to look at his “progeny” and realize that he had a hand in creating a circle of individuals who come together as deep friends as well as siblings. We might range in ages, interests, talents and abilities, but there is no doubt we all draw from the same source. Our personalities are at once very similar and still so different, yet we are encircled by a love and understanding that binds us into family. And that sense of family extends far beyond the bounds of blood ties and genetics to create a widening group that includes dear friends as part of the family. It is important to note that all of us were nurtured to develop those deep loving bonds that draw others into our nucleus and they become family as well. That is a trait Daddy managed to pass on to all of us.
While he would humbly say that a father should not boast and proclaim his children are his doing, it is undeniable that he played a large part in who we are. His love, encouragement, nurturing, and ability to lead by example all helped us along the way. He can take pride in his children and grandchildren and we all in turn are proud to call him Dad and Grandpa. We honor you not just today but every day as our friend, counselor, and father. I love you immensely Dad.
Monday, June 15, 2009
Moving forward
From here on out, this blog is my own. Really my own.
Spring quarter is over; I did great. The project for LIBR100 that included beginning this blog is behind me and I'm going to be able to post whatever I feel like. That will feel good, and could be entertaining. Who knows. We'll see where it goes.
For now, I'll leave it at that.
Spring quarter is over; I did great. The project for LIBR100 that included beginning this blog is behind me and I'm going to be able to post whatever I feel like. That will feel good, and could be entertaining. Who knows. We'll see where it goes.
For now, I'll leave it at that.
Monday, May 25, 2009
Wrapping it up
When we began this journey, I was just looking to find out about public libraries and their goal of providing free access to information. The investigation was partly because I wanted to know more about libraries’ role in society and democracy, but it was also because I wanted to see up close what libraries were offering to their communities. I grew up with the concept of a library being a big building filled with books where you could go to borrow books, look up information, and get help from the librarian in finding what you needed. Of course, I know that now there are computers for use at the library and you can access a lot of information online from libraries’ Web sites, but had no idea what public libraries had to offer these days.
Through my research, I found that the “information” a library can provide access to is far broader than I imagined. I also learned a little about the history of public libraries and how they fit into the fabric of our country. I understand more now about what local public libraries have to offer their patrons. Beyond the standard books, movies, music, and periodicals, libraries have a wealth of information at their fingertips that can be accessed from our homes or at the library; and there are trained librarians available to make searching for what we need easier. But it’s more than that, libraries offer events, programs, and resources that can help people dealing with tough times. Library staff members have worked to bring patrons a variety of things that can help make their lives better and more enjoyable.
Public libraries reach out to their communities and offer services to all patrons without regard to who they are, what their beliefs are or how much money they make. They help those who can’t afford a computer gain access to one and help them learn to use it. Public libraries help people whose native language isn’t English learn to speak it so they can function in their community a little easier. They encourage those who aren’t English speakers to become not only readers, but to ignite that passion for reading in their children.
Another way that some public libraries help democracy function is to provide free access to information about our government and its operations through the Federal Depository Library Program. To me, that’s a pretty important role to play.
If you thought that a public library was just a big building filled with books and other materials before you read this blog, I hope you’ve learned along with me just how much more than that it is. I also hope that you’ll be eager to find some of these free opportunities at your own public library and take advantage of them. In this day and age, who can say “no thanks” to deals like these?
Through my research, I found that the “information” a library can provide access to is far broader than I imagined. I also learned a little about the history of public libraries and how they fit into the fabric of our country. I understand more now about what local public libraries have to offer their patrons. Beyond the standard books, movies, music, and periodicals, libraries have a wealth of information at their fingertips that can be accessed from our homes or at the library; and there are trained librarians available to make searching for what we need easier. But it’s more than that, libraries offer events, programs, and resources that can help people dealing with tough times. Library staff members have worked to bring patrons a variety of things that can help make their lives better and more enjoyable.
Public libraries reach out to their communities and offer services to all patrons without regard to who they are, what their beliefs are or how much money they make. They help those who can’t afford a computer gain access to one and help them learn to use it. Public libraries help people whose native language isn’t English learn to speak it so they can function in their community a little easier. They encourage those who aren’t English speakers to become not only readers, but to ignite that passion for reading in their children.
Another way that some public libraries help democracy function is to provide free access to information about our government and its operations through the Federal Depository Library Program. To me, that’s a pretty important role to play.
If you thought that a public library was just a big building filled with books and other materials before you read this blog, I hope you’ve learned along with me just how much more than that it is. I also hope that you’ll be eager to find some of these free opportunities at your own public library and take advantage of them. In this day and age, who can say “no thanks” to deals like these?
Civic duty
As part of their mission to uphold free speech and foster open access to information, many libraries participate in the Federal Depository Library Program. Since 1813, some libraries have been part of a system that assures the American people access to information about their government’s workings. In looking into just what the FDLP does, I found this information:
“The Federal Depository Library Program (FDLP) was established by Congress to ensure tha
t the American public has access to its Government's information. Since 1813, depository libraries have safeguarded the public's right to know by collecting, organizing, maintaining, preserving, and assisting users with information from the Federal Government. The FDLP provides Government information at no cost to designated depository libraries throughout the country and territories. These depository libraries, in turn, provide local, no-fee access to Government information in an impartial environment with professional assistance.
“As institutions committed to equity of access and dedicated to free and unrestricted public use, the nation's nearly 1,250 depository libraries serve as one of the vital links between 'We the people' and our Government. Anyone can visit Federal depository libraries and use the Federal depository collections which are filled with information on careers, business opportunities, consumer information, health and nutrition, legal and regulatory information, demographics, and numerous other subjects.” (About the FDLP, www.fdlp.gov)
You can check out their video here.
Looking at the directory of FDLP libraries, I found that the following libraries are part of the program: Washington State Library, Bellevue branch of the King County Library System, Seattle Public Library, Highline Community College and several other academic libraries throughout the state, and numerous law libraries. To be honest, I had never heard about this program before, but it’s exciting to learn about. Not only does the Government Printing Office provide the libraries with the documents and information, it also can provide pamphlets and information the library can give to patrons about how government as a whole works and there’s even one geared for kids! That’s pretty amazing if you ask me.
Another facet of the civic mission of public libraries is the assistance many provide in both “English as a Second Language” and how to become a citizen. The majority of public libraries I researched offer ESL classes and information; many of them even have events where people can practice their conversational English skills in an informal setting. There are podcasts, databases and often links to other information as well offered on many public libraries’ Web sites. One public library I found – Kitsap Regional Library – even offers information about becoming a citizen. They have exam preparation tools including DVDs and databases.
Libraries across the country are part of an annual event called “El día de los niños/El día de los libros (Children's Day/Book Day) -- also known as Día. Each year, it is held on April 30 and includes bilingual storytimes, book giveaways, and other family and literacy events. The day is aimed at partnering with parents and other caregivers to help raise enthusiastic readers among Spanish-speaking families. The event is coordinated by ALA’s Association for Library Service to Children and was originally started by children’s author Pat Mora in 1996. (ALA)
“The Federal Depository Library Program (FDLP) was established by Congress to ensure tha
t the American public has access to its Government's information. Since 1813, depository libraries have safeguarded the public's right to know by collecting, organizing, maintaining, preserving, and assisting users with information from the Federal Government. The FDLP provides Government information at no cost to designated depository libraries throughout the country and territories. These depository libraries, in turn, provide local, no-fee access to Government information in an impartial environment with professional assistance.“As institutions committed to equity of access and dedicated to free and unrestricted public use, the nation's nearly 1,250 depository libraries serve as one of the vital links between 'We the people' and our Government. Anyone can visit Federal depository libraries and use the Federal depository collections which are filled with information on careers, business opportunities, consumer information, health and nutrition, legal and regulatory information, demographics, and numerous other subjects.” (About the FDLP, www.fdlp.gov)
You can check out their video here.
Looking at the directory of FDLP libraries, I found that the following libraries are part of the program: Washington State Library, Bellevue branch of the King County Library System, Seattle Public Library, Highline Community College and several other academic libraries throughout the state, and numerous law libraries. To be honest, I had never heard about this program before, but it’s exciting to learn about. Not only does the Government Printing Office provide the libraries with the documents and information, it also can provide pamphlets and information the library can give to patrons about how government as a whole works and there’s even one geared for kids! That’s pretty amazing if you ask me.
Another facet of the civic mission of public libraries is the assistance many provide in both “English as a Second Language” and how to become a citizen. The majority of public libraries I researched offer ESL classes and information; many of them even have events where people can practice their conversational English skills in an informal setting. There are podcasts, databases and often links to other information as well offered on many public libraries’ Web sites. One public library I found – Kitsap Regional Library – even offers information about becoming a citizen. They have exam preparation tools including DVDs and databases.
Libraries across the country are part of an annual event called “El día de los niños/El día de los libros (Children's Day/Book Day) -- also known as Día. Each year, it is held on April 30 and includes bilingual storytimes, book giveaways, and other family and literacy events. The day is aimed at partnering with parents and other caregivers to help raise enthusiastic readers among Spanish-speaking families. The event is coordinated by ALA’s Association for Library Service to Children and was originally started by children’s author Pat Mora in 1996. (ALA)
Dealing with economic woes
In the recent economic struggles and widespread job losses, many libraries are making job hunting help available on site as well as online. Many libraries are holding seminars with resume 
help and job-hunting skill sessions. The library in York, Pennsylvania, decided to offer more than help, they set up a day where people (even those who did not have a library card) could come to the library, get help putting together a resume, then print out five free copies. Now free copies might not seem like much, but to unemployed job seekers, it’s a help. The library director said the event was set up not only to help job seekers, but also to draw attention to other free services the library offers. They hope to show people who aren’t already patrons what the library has to offer for free.
In an article about helping library users who are looking for employment and help with tighter budgets, Paul LeClerc, the president of the New York Public Library, said: “We've been in the job-search business for decades. This is a continuation.” (Brustein)
To help public libraries offer assistance to their communities in tough times, the ALA has made available resources nationwide. As part of a grant program, they have made available information from the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority called “Job Dislocation: Making Smart Financial Choices after a Job Loss.” It’s a brochure aimed at helping people maintain their financial stability while they are unemployed. The ALA provides the brochures to public libraries to give away.
The public library is the place to turn for free entertainment, too. With free DVDs to borrow (and sometimes free movie nights at
the library), periodicals to read, presentations to attend (including some libraries that offer opera and symphony previews), book discussions, teen game nights, story times, arts & crafts sessions, podcasts, computer classes, and more, libraries have much to offer. One library in 
California includes on its Web site a “Library Use Calculator” that was created by Michigan State Library and adopted by the Maine State Library. The tool can help patrons see how much money they are saving by using library resources rather than renting movies or buying books. (“Mission Viejo Library Offers New Calculator”)
Christina Hennessy, in her article “Making Do: Library Use On the Rise As Residents Trim Spending,” gave this example of ways one library is helping: “At Greenwich Library's Cos Cob branch, several programs are planned to help families save money, learn how to best use coupons and build shopping lists, and find other ways to cut costs on household spending, according to Kate Petrov, the library's spokeswoman.” There seems to be no end to the ways in which public libraries are reaching out to help people in their communities.
help and job-hunting skill sessions. The library in York, Pennsylvania, decided to offer more than help, they set up a day where people (even those who did not have a library card) could come to the library, get help putting together a resume, then print out five free copies. Now free copies might not seem like much, but to unemployed job seekers, it’s a help. The library director said the event was set up not only to help job seekers, but also to draw attention to other free services the library offers. They hope to show people who aren’t already patrons what the library has to offer for free.In an article about helping library users who are looking for employment and help with tighter budgets, Paul LeClerc, the president of the New York Public Library, said: “We've been in the job-search business for decades. This is a continuation.” (Brustein)
To help public libraries offer assistance to their communities in tough times, the ALA has made available resources nationwide. As part of a grant program, they have made available information from the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority called “Job Dislocation: Making Smart Financial Choices after a Job Loss.” It’s a brochure aimed at helping people maintain their financial stability while they are unemployed. The ALA provides the brochures to public libraries to give away.
The public library is the place to turn for free entertainment, too. With free DVDs to borrow (and sometimes free movie nights at
the library), periodicals to read, presentations to attend (including some libraries that offer opera and symphony previews), book discussions, teen game nights, story times, arts & crafts sessions, podcasts, computer classes, and more, libraries have much to offer. One library in 
California includes on its Web site a “Library Use Calculator” that was created by Michigan State Library and adopted by the Maine State Library. The tool can help patrons see how much money they are saving by using library resources rather than renting movies or buying books. (“Mission Viejo Library Offers New Calculator”)Christina Hennessy, in her article “Making Do: Library Use On the Rise As Residents Trim Spending,” gave this example of ways one library is helping: “At Greenwich Library's Cos Cob branch, several programs are planned to help families save money, learn how to best use coupons and build shopping lists, and find other ways to cut costs on household spending, according to Kate Petrov, the library's spokeswoman.” There seems to be no end to the ways in which public libraries are reaching out to help people in their communities.
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