UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-MILWAUKEE

School of Information Studies

L&I SCI 736 – Public Libraries Online

SYLLABUS

Fall 2011

Instructor: Catherine Hansen, Location: Bolton Hall Rm 518

Email: , Phone: 414-229-3123

Office Hours: By appointment, phone, chat, tinychat Fax: 414-229-6699

Meeting Time: Our weeks will start on Weds. All readings and assignments will correspond with this.

GENERAL DESCRIPTION:

This course explores the roles performed by public libraries in meeting educational, informational, recreational, and cultural needs. Using a seminar format of reading and discussion, and drawing on the perspectives of guest speakers from the library field, the class will look at current and future challenges facing those in public library service. This course provides an overview and analysis of issues, trends and concerns relating to public libraries in the United States.

OBJECTIVES:

Upon completion of the course, students will have an in-depth understanding of the:

- Role played by public libraries in American life

- Organizational structure and governance of public libraries

- Elements that create a dynamic public library

ALA COMPETENCIES:

1C. The history of libraries and librarianship.

1H. The importance of effective advocacy for libraries, librarians, other library workers, and library services.

1I. The techniques used to analyze complex problems and create appropriate solutions.

1J. Effective communication techniques (verbal and written).

1K. Certification and/or licensure requirements of specialized areas of the profession.

4A. Information, communication, assistive, and related technologies as they affect the resources, service delivery, and uses of libraries and other information agencies. 4B. The application of information, communication, assistive, and related technology and tools consistent with professional ethics and prevailing service norms and applications.

4D. The principles and techniques necessary to identify and analyze emerging technologies and innovations in order to recognize and implement relevant technological improvements.

5A. The concepts, principles, and techniques of reference and user services that provide access to relevant and accurate recorded knowledge and information to individuals of all ages and groups.

5E. The principles and methods of advocacy used to reach specific audiences to promote and explain concepts and services.

5F. The principles of assessment and response to diversity in user needs, user

communities, and user preferences.

5G. The principles and methods used to assess the impact of current and emerging situations or circumstances on the design and implementation of appropriate services or resource development.

7B. The role of the library in the lifelong learning of patrons, including an understanding of lifelong learning in the provision of quality service and the use of lifelong learning in the promotion of library services.

8A. The principles of planning and budgeting in libraries and other information agencies.

8B. The principles of effective personnel practices and human resource development.

8C. The concepts behind, and methods for, assessment and evaluation of library services and their outcomes.

8D. The concepts behind, and methods for, developing partnerships, collaborations, networks, and other structures with all stakeholders and within communities served.

METHOD:

Lecture/Discussion/Debate/Presentation

Students with special test and note-taking needs should contact the instructor as early as possible for accommodations.

TEXT:

REQUIRED:
De la Pena McCook, K. (2011) 2nd ed. Introduction to Public Librarianship. New York, NY: Neal-Schuman Publishers
Readings also are assigned from a variety of sources. They are available through the D2L course site or the Internet.

COURSE SCHEDULE:

WEEK: / TOPICS: / Readings
Sept. 7
Week 1 / Course overview;
The Public Library:
History, Mission & Use / McCook Chapters 2 & 3
-Ruben, R. E. (2008). Stepping back and looking forward: Reflections on the foundations of libraries and librarianship. The Portable MLIS. Westport, CT: Libraries Unlimited.
·  Q: In this reading Ruben states, “Libraries … are not merely important, they are essential.” Do you agree? Why or why not.
http://www.ala.org/ala/alonline/resources/slctdarticles/12wayslibraries.cfm -Which of these are most important? Least? Why?
Sept. 14
Week 2 / Leadership, Governance & Organization
Policies / McCook Chapter 5
-Moore, M. Y. (2005). Chapter 1: Getting started. The successful library trustee handbook. Chicago: American Library Association. 1-7.
- Division for Libraries, Technology, and Community Learning. (2002). Chapter 2: Who runs the library? Trustee essentials: A handbook for Wisconsin public library trustees. Madison: Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction. TE 2-1 – TE 2-4.
- Sheldon, B.E. (2008). Another look at leadership. The Portable MLIS. Westport, CT: Libraries Unlimited.
- Moran, B.B. (2008). Management: An essential skill for today’s librarians. The Portable MLIS. Westport, CT: Libraries Unlimited.
-"Policies and Circumstances" Webinar Recording http://blip.tv/file/4302756
Hand out referred to in the webinar: http://www.scribd.com/full/40202013?access_key=key-btcpwx0a843zd05f31q
-Handy resource: http://www.dpi.state.wi.us/pld/trusteefaq.html
Sept. 21
Week 3 / Rural/Urban/Suburban Libraries
Differences/Similarities / Gonzalez, M.E. (2010). Workforce competenices: Focus on urban public libraries. Library Trends 59 (1/2). 269-287
Mehra, B., Black, K., Singh, V., Renfro, N., Reynolds, D., Simmons, S., Williams, K.C. (2010) Rural library professionals as change agents in the 21st century: Integrating information technology competencies in the southern and central Appalachian region. Tennessee Libraries 60(3)
http://www.tnla.org/displaycommon.cfm?an=1&subarticlenbr=376
Hildreth, S. (2007). Rural libraries: the heart of our communities. Public Libraries (March/April) 7-11.
http://arsl.pbworks.com/f/Article+-+Rural+Libraries+by+Hildreth+Public+Libraries+MarApr+07.pdf
Sept 28
Week 4 / Data: Community Analysis, Marketing,
• Know your community
• Developing a marketing plan
• Public Relations: Putting your best face forward
Library Assessment Due / McCook Chapter 4
-Shontz, M. L., Parker, J. C., & Parker, R. (2004). What do librarians think about marketing? A survey of public librarians' attitudes toward the marketing of library services. Library Quarterly. 74:1, 63-84.
-Felker,K. (2008). Editorial board thoughts. Information Technology & Libraries, 27(2), 4-5.
- Blackstead, K. J., & Shoaf, E. C. (2002). Chapter 1: Synergy in library public relations, marketing, and development activities. Powerful public relations: A how-to guide for libraries. Chicago: American Library Association. 1-7.
Persichini, G. & Lipus, T. (2009). Libraries by a river: three rural libraries join forces to improve the customer experience. Idaho Librarian 59(2) 1-3.
-Koontza, C.M., Juea, D.K., Lance, K.C. (2005) Neighborhood-based in-library use performance measures for public libraries: A nationwide study of majority–minority and majority white/low income
markets using personal digital data collectors.
http://www.ugr.es/~alozano/Translations/5ABNeighborhoodbasedinlibraryuse.pdf
-Brehm-Heeger, P., Edwards, G. (2010). Remaking One of the Nation's Busiest Main Libraries. Public Libraries Online 49(6)
http://www.publiclibrariesonline.org/magazines/featured-articles/remaking-one-nations-busiest-main-libraries
Oct. 5
Week 5 / Budgeting & Finance I
• The Players: Director, Library Board, & Village Board/City Gov't
• Budget Allocation
• State Law / -Allen, B. (2003). Public opinion and the funding of public libraries. Library Trends. 51:3, 414-423.
- Holt, G. (2002). Economics: Budgeting for the twenty-first century. The Bottom Line: Managing Library Finances. 13:1, pp. 1-5.
- Division for Libraries, Technology, and Community Learning. (2007). Chapter 8: Developing the library budget. Trustee essentials: A handbook for Wisconsin public library trustees. Madison: Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction. TE 8-1 - TE 8-5.
- Budgeting: http://dpi.state.wi.us/pld/ae13.html or
Special Libraries http://www.libsci.sc.edu/bob/class/clis724/SpecialLibrariesHandbook/Budgets%20and%20Financial%20Management.htm
http://www.libraryjournal.com/lj/communityfunding/849932-268/permanent_shift_library_budgets_2010.html.csp
Oct. 12
Week 6 / Budgeting & Finance II / - Nelson, S., Altman, E., & Mayo, D. (2003). Chapter 1: Results require resources. Managing for results: Effective resource allocation for public libraries. Chicago: American Library Association. 13-28.
-Ashman, A. B. (2003). A Comparative Examination of Public Library Fundraising. Public Library Quarterly, 21(2), 47-57.
- Holt, G. (2002). Economics: Long-range financial planning for libraries. The Bottom Line: Managing Library Finances. 15:3, 125-128.
-Division for Libraries, Technology, and Community Learning. (2007). Chapter 9: Managing the library's money. Trustee essentials: A handbook for Wisconsin public library trustees. Madison: Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction. TE 9-1 - TE 9-4.
-Hage, C. L. (2004). Chapter 4: Securing library financing. The public library start-up guide. 40-49.
Oct. 19
Week 7 / Staffing and Unions
• Do librarians get paid what they are worth - why or why not?
• Paraprofessionals v. Professionals debate
• Unions
Budget Paper Due / McCook Chapter 6
-Manjarrez, C.A. & Ray, J., Bisher, K. (2010). A demographic overview of the current and projected library workforce and the impact of federal funding, Library Trends 59(1/2); 6-29.
-Rexon, D. (2005). Proper care and feeding of the endangered species: Curator Bibliothecae Rusticae (the rural librarian). Rural Libraries 25(2). 59-81.
- Lynch, M. J. (2003). Public library staff: How many is enough? American Libraries. 34:5, 58-59.
- Cohn, J. M., & Kelsey, A. L. (2005). Chapter 2: Defining twenty-first century competencies: Determining standards for the modern library. Staffing the modern library: A how-to-do-it manual. New York: Neal-Schuman Publishers, Inc. 13-24.
- Cohn, J. M., & Kelsey, A. L. (2005). Chapter 5: Outsourcing and insourcing: Exploring the options and issues in today’s library. Staffing the modern library: A how-to-do-it manual. New York: Neal-Schuman Publishers, Inc. 45-55.
- McLean, C. (2005). The not-so-odd couple: Libraries and unions. Alki. 21:2, 11-12.
- Auld, H. (2002). The benefits and deficiencies of unions in public libraries. Public Libraries. 41:3, 135-142.
Oct. 26
Week 8 / Grant Writing
Funding Info at Marquette person/ / - Swan, J. (2002). Chapter 3: Exploring funding through successful grant writing. Fundraising for libraries: 25 proven ways to get more money for your library. New York: Neal-Schuman Publishers, Inc. 47-66.
- Swan, J. (2002). Chapter 15: Securing matching grants or gifts. Fundraising for libraries: 25 proven ways to get more money for your library. New York: Neal-Schuman Publishers, Inc. 273-279.
- Swan, J. (2002). Chapter 19: Write an LSTA grant. Fundraising for libraries: 25 proven ways to get more money for your library. New York: Neal-Schuman Publishers, Inc. 307-314.
- Gerding, S. (2006). Writing successful library grant proposals. Public Libraries. 45:5, 31-3.
- Barber, P., & Crowe, L. D. (1993). Ten commandments for successful grants. Getting your grant: A how-to-do-it manual for librarians. New York: Neal-Schuman Publishers, Inc. 2.
Nov. 2
Week 9 / Disaster Planning/ Conservation/Preservation / -Kahn, M. B. (2003). Introduction. Disaster Response and Planning for Libraries. 2nd ed. Chicago: American Library Association. 1-4.
- Holderfield, A. (2007).A library disaster. Illinois Libraries. 86:4, 11-15.
- Kuzyk, R. (2007). Serving through disaster. Library Journal. 132:5, 26-29.
- Dickerson, L. (2006). Building from disaster: Lessons from Hurricane Katrina. Alki. 22:1, 16-19.
- Pinnell-Stephens, J. (2005). Saving the stories: Alaska libraries rescue two Native oral history resources. American Libraries. 36:11, 46-47.
- Tolbert, S. L. (1997). Preservation in American public libraries: A contradiction in terms? Public Libraries. 36:4, 236-245.
Video: Disaster Planning and Recovery of Marine Librarians: Tale of Two Rivers
Nov. 9
Week 10 / Public Services: Programming and Outreach
Catering to the Demographic: Adult, Seniors, Cultural,
Children's & YA Programming
Grant Assignment Due / McCook Chapters 8 and 9
Agosto, D.E. & Hughes-Hassell, S. (2010). Revamping library services to meet urban teens everyday life information needs and preferences in Urban teens in the library: research and practice (pp. 23-40) Chicago:ALA
- McCain, M. (2003). What’s so special about special needs? Public Libraries. 42:1, 51-54.
- Quezada, S. (2003). Nothing about me without me: Planning for library services for people with disabilities. Public Libraries. 42:1, 42-46.
- Mates, B. T. (2003). Chapter 4: Programming for seniors. 5-star programming and services for your 55+ library customers. Chicago: American Library Association. 34-41.
- Robertson, D. A. (2005). Chapter 1: Making the case for cultural programming. Cultural programming for libraries: Linking libraries, communities, and culture. Chicago: American Library Association. 1-7.
Watch video: Libraries, the universe and everything, serving immigrant populations: a library prototype for diversity
Nov. 16
Week 11 / Cyberspace/ Cyberservices
Web 2.0
• Books or bytes (or both) - what is a good mix of service delivery methods?
• What services should or should not be offered online?
Digital Divide / - Quint, B. (2008). Why isn’t print dead…yet? Information Today. 25:1, 7-8.
- King, D. (2002). Access to e-serials and other continuing electronic resources at Kansas City public library. The Serials Librarian. 41:3/4, 271-279.
-Litzer, D., & Barnett, A. (2004). Local history in e-books and on the web: One library’s experience as example and model. Reference & User Services Quarterly. 43:3, 248-57.
- Bordeaux, A., & Boyd, M. (2007). Blogs, wikis, and podcasts: Social software in the library. The Serials Librarian. 52:3/4, 263-269.
- Bolan, K., Canada, M., & Cullin, R. (2007). Web, library, and teen services 2.0. Young Adult Library Services. 5:2, 40-43.
- Anonymous. (2007). LibraryThing for libraries. Library Journal Net Connect. Summer, 3.
- Klein, L. R. (2004). Phoenix gets it right. Library Journal. 129:12, 34-36.
-Sauers, M.P. (2006). An Introduction to Blogs (Chapter 1) in Blogging and RSS: A librarians guide (pp.1-9). Medford, NJ: Information Today, Inc.
-Sauers, M.P. (2006). Podcasting in Blogging and RSS: A librarians guide (pp.119-121). Medford, NJ: Information Today, Inc.
-Sauers, M.P. (2006). An Introduction to RSS (Chapter 5) in Blogging and RSS: A librarians guide (pp.123-141). Medford, NJ: Information Today, Inc.
-Ward-Crixell, K. (2007). Gaming Advocacy. School Library Journal, 53(9), 36-38.
-Farrelly, M.G. (2006). The Possibilities of YouTube. Public Libraries, 45(5), 34-35.
-Starr, J. (2007). LibraryThing.com: The Holy Grail of Book Recommendation Engines. Searcher, 15(7), 25-32.
-McClure, M. (2007).Case Study: Rolling Out a Robust Library Experience. Information Today, 24(4), 1,42.
- Blue, L. et al. (2007). Increasing Patron Traffic to Your Library's Web Links. Public Libraries, 46(1), 28-30.
Nov. 23
Week 12 / Thanksgiving Break / Thanksgiving Break
Nov. 30
Week 13 / River Bend Case Studies
Programming Assign. Due / See D2L Content page for case studies
Dec. 7
Week 14 / Library Advocacy
• Mission statements, community partnerships, and fundraising
• Identifying target groups
• Designing the library message / -Moore, M. Y. (2005). Chapter 4: Advocacy: A basic board responsibility. The successful library trustee handbook. Chicago: American Library Association. 22-27.
- Hage, C. L. (2004). Chapter 13: Promoting the library. The public library start-up guide. Chicago: American Library Association. 146-155.
- Illinois Library Association & American Library Association. (2004). Library advocacy: Influencing decision makers. Chicago: Illinois Library Association. 1-16.
- Wallace, L. K. (2008). Library advocate's handbook. Chicago: American Library Association, Public Information Office. 1-40.
Dec. 14
Week 15 / Public Libraries Around the World
• Can libraries play a significant role in development?
The Library of the future
What’s next?
Editorial Response due / McCook Chapter 11 and 12
- Auld, H. (Ed.) (2002). Public libraries in the developing world. Public Libraries. 41:1, 25-33.
- de Jager, K., & Nassimbeni, M. (2007). Information literacy in practice: Engaging public library workers in rural South Africa. IFLA Journal. 33:4. 313-322.
- Ahmad, P. (2008). The national library of Pakistan: An overview. IFLA Journal. 34:1, 90-98.
Video: Remote Access: Distant Libraries of the World
- Simon, M. (2006). Will the Library Survive the Internet? What Patrons Value in Public Libraries. Public Libraries, 41(2), 104-106.
-Stratigos, A., & Strouse, R. (2003). Library of the Future. Online, 27(1), 74-76.
-Sullivan, M. (2003). The Fragile Future of Public Libraries. Public Libraries, 42(5), 303-308.

ASSIGNMENTS: