Rhode Island Library Association RILA Blog

Tiverton Public Library welcomes the Declaration of Independence courtesy of FAPE and Crayola

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 19:17:04 GMT

Tiverton Public Library is honored to be one of only three libraries and three schools nationwide selected to host a replica of the 1823 William J. Stone engraving of the Declaration of Independence, thanks to the Foundation for Art and Preservation in Embassies (FAPE) and Crayola Learning. The exhibition is part of FAPE and Crayola’s “Creative Freedom” initiative, celebrating the 250th anniversary of the United States and the signing of this historic document.

The FAPE replica, a generous gift from David M. Rubenstein in 2013, one for each U.S. embassy around the world, will be on public display at the library through July 7, 2026. Crayola also generously donated over $2,500 of art supplies to the library for our 250th Anniversary programs.

Crozier Fine Arts delivered and installed the Declaration on Thursday, February 19, 2026, and the library hosted a series of events that February vacation week to celebrate. Children created their own tricorn hats to wear as they greeted the arrival of the Declaration. Patrons of all ages stopped by our public computer stations to digitally sign the Declaration on the National Archives website. Representatives from Crozier Fine Arts gave a talk on art installation techniques, with some unique examples. Library patrons of all ages created a paper doll of themselves using Crayola products and then added themselves to a copy of the mural by Barry Faulkner depicting the adoption of the Declaration of Independence, which is on display above the Declaration in the rotunda of the National Archives. And John Adams (portrayed by Michael Lepage) visited the library on Saturday, February 21st, to share reflections on drafting and signing the Declaration of Independence.

For 40 years, the Foundation for Art and Preservation in Embassies has been the public-private partnership dedicated to providing permanent works of American art for U.S. embassies worldwide. All artworks commissioned or placed by FAPE are by American artists and are gifts, representing the generosity and patriotism of some of the United States’ greatest artists and donors. FAPE has raised more than $215 million in art and monetary contributions, and works by more than 250 preeminent American artists have been placed in over 140 countries. Bank of America has been FAPE’s official sponsor since 2011. https://www.fapeculturaldiplomacy.org

Crayola fosters creativity in classrooms and beyond by partnering with educators to help children make their thinking visible. Crayola offers resources for transforming learning through engagement, collaboration, and creativity. For more than 10 years, Crayola Learning has been an educational partner of FAPE, incorporating art from the Collection into educational resources for students and teachers. Through this project, Crayola has developed thinking sheets to help students express what freedom means to them. https://www.crayola.com/learning

Crozier is the global leader of art logistics and services. For this project, they have created a custom crate and will oversee the installation of each Declaration of Independence. Additionally, students are invited to observe the installation and engage with the Crozier team, learning about art logistics as a career option as well as professions in museum services and cultural preservation. https://www.crozierfinearts.com

The mission of Tiverton Public Library is to be an essential resource for personal growth and community enrichment. Our programs, services, and collections serve the personal and professional needs and interests of individuals, groups, and organizations. As a vital part of the Town, our modern library services enhance the educational, cultural, social, and economic well-being of the community. https://tivertonlibrary.org/

2026 Theodor Seuss Geisel Award Selection Committee

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 19:15:11 GMT

Maria Cotto, Bilingual Children’s Librarian at the Pawtucket Public Library served on the 2026 Theodor Seuss Geisel Award Selection Committee. Each year the committee selects children’s books published in the preceding year in English in the United States with the most distinguished American book for beginner readers in Pre-K through 2nd grade. The Theodor Seuss Geisel Award Selection Committee consists of seven members.

The award winners were announced at the ALA Youth Media Awards in January 2026 and the award presentation will take place at the ALA Annual Conference in Chicago, IL in June of 2026.

To learn more about this award, please visit the link below:

https://www.ala.org/alsc/awardsgrants/bookmedia/geisel

Cumberland Library Celebrates 50 years at the Monastery

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 19:12:31 GMT

The Cumberland Public Library joined three smaller libraries to create a larger library to support the town of Cumberland in 1976. The Arnold Mills Community Library, the Sherman LeClerc Library and Valley Falls Library were all small neighborhood libraries that did not fulfill state standards. In 1976, the town merged the three and housed them in the former Lady of the Valley Monastery, which had been purchased by the town in the early 70’s. The building was dedicated to Edward Hayden on June 20, 1976. Hayden had been the town manager who organized the purchase of the Monastery building along with 500 acres of land.

The Library is celebrating our 50 years with an Open House for patrons on March 26th and inviting former staff and trustees to a small reception. We are also holding a carnival on June 20th on the front lawn for families. Our annual Haunted Monastery will have a 70’s Horror movie theme. We end the year with a disco!

Everyone is invited as we celebrate.

Funding Opportunities: Rhode Island Genealogical Society

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 19:10:55 GMT

The Rhode Island Genealogical Society welcomes applications for small amounts of funding in support of purchases, content, or preservation of records for those researching Rhode Island ancestors. Public or nonprofit libraries in Rhode Island, or nonprofit organizations serving as repositories, are welcome to apply for funding. Awards typically range from $300 to $ 2,000. All awards will require a final report within twelve months.

Please copy the following questions into an email and answer each one. Email should be sent to outreach@rigensoc.org. The application deadline is extended to April 15, and awards will be announced at the RIGS Annual Meeting in May; letters of award/decline will follow.

rigensoc.org

Coventry Student Art Contest

Mon, 09 Feb 2026 14:36:58 GMT

Calling all Coventry students! In celebration of "Rhode Island 250," the 250th anniversary of the signing of the nation's Declaration of Independence, Coventry is holding a town-wide student art contest for grades Kindergarten - 12th grade, culminating in an art reception extravaganza! Winners will receive gift cards, trophies and medals! Any K-12 grade student who resides in Coventry is eligible to submit art work.

In the spirit of RI250, the theme is "Historical Coventry: A Celebration in Art" and we encourage submissions to be based on any aspect of Coventry history, from any time period. Looking for inspiration? Ask a librarian! See Rules & Guidelines for more details.

Student art submission accepted 7 days a week during open hours between April 20 - May 3 at the Coventry Public Library, 1672 Flat River Road The Art Show & Reception is on Tuesday, May 19 from 5:30 - 7:30 at the Coventry Community Learning Center (Annex), 1675 Flat River Road.

https://coventrylibrary.org/historical-coventry-celebration-art-student-art-contest

Family Friendly Performer/Educator Fair

Mon, 09 Feb 2026 14:34:25 GMT

On the hunt for epic events to host at your library, school, or church? Then we have an event for you. Come meet creatives for hire at this drop in meet and greet fair.

February 26, Thursday from 4pm to 6pm. Snow Date March 5th.

https://warwicklibrary.libcal.com/event/15571250

The Power of Personal Projects with Photographer Justin Mott

Tue, 09 Dec 2025 13:46:23 GMT

Please join us as Smithfield native, Justin Mott—now based in Vietnam—shares stories and lessons from nearly two decades behind the camera. Justin’s talk explores how he uses personal projects to stay inspired throughout a career that spans more than 100 New York Times assignments, global commercial campaigns, and an award-winning documentary film. He is also the former host and judge of the History Channel series Photo Face-Off.

Through his ongoing Kindred Guardians project, which documents people who devote their lives to helping animals, Justin shows how personal work can fuel creativity, sustain passion, and offer anyone a meaningful way to create and contribute. Mott's work and portfolio can be viewed at www.justinmott.com.

Monday, December 29th at 6pm at The East Smithfield Public Library, yes please register

https://myespl.libcal.com/event/15674836

Performer Educator For Hire Vendor Fair

Tue, 02 Dec 2025 15:57:34 GMT

Calling all Magicians, Puppeteers, Artists, Musicians, Storytellers, and Instructors. If you design programs for families, children, and teens, WE WANT YOU!

Showcase your talents and offerings, connect with RI librarians and teachers, and book future events.

February 26, 2026 4-6pm at the Warwick Public Library. registration is required:

https://warwicklibrary.libcal.com/event/15571250

Paul Mellor's experience down the mighty Mississippi River

Tue, 02 Dec 2025 15:50:13 GMT

Join us on December 4th to meet Rhode Island resident, Paul Mellor.

To say that Paul had quite the summer in 2024 is an understatement. Beginning at Lake Itasca, Minnesota, Paul paddled the length of the 2300-mile Mississippi River to the Gulf. During that time from top to bottom he encountered beaver dams and log jams, floating debris and flying fish, bugs and barges, freighters and gators, wind and wonder, but as Paul says, the lasting memories came from the people he met along the way.

The author of Strokes of Kindness, paddling America’s most iconic river reveals the humanity of its people, Paul will share with us his experience down the mighty Mississippi River. You’re invited to climb onboard. Life jackets optional.

Paul Mellor is also the author of You're Almost There: Sights, Sounds and Exhilaration of Running a Marathon in All 50 States and Summerin the Saddle: A Bike Ride Across America.

Thursday, December 4th at 6:00pm.

All ages are welcome.

Registration is encouraged.

https://nprovlib.org/december-4th-paul-mellors-experience-down-mighty-mississippi-river

Rhode Island Sweeps the NELA Games and Trivia at the New England Library Association This Year

Tue, 02 Dec 2025 15:45:23 GMT

Rhode Island swept the NELA Games and Trivia this year, proving that the Ocean State is small but mighty when it comes to library smarts. In celebration of Jane Austen’s birthday, the NELA Games were regency themed and teams were challenged to create a three-minute skit inspired by Austen using random prompts and plot twists. Rhode Island’s quick wit, use of props (do you see those beautiful masks?) and creativity stole the show and upgraded us from the brain to the bong! Trivia was a harder victory, but some smart wagering during the final question ensured we took home the win. We hope that more Rhode Island library staff will join us in Vermont next October so we can defend our titles!

More Than A Number — The Indigent Cemetery | Project Spotlight

Tue, 02 Dec 2025 15:42:36 GMT

1,049 number-marked graves behind the Rhode Island Training School had been forgotten. See how students remembered them.

More than historical research, the Indigent Cemetery Project reflects on identity, belonging, and remembering. Join us as we spotlight the efforts by T-Time Productions and many volunteers, with support from the Rhode Island State Archives, in restoring and telling the stories buried in the indigent cemetery behind the Rhode Island Training School. The Rhode Island State Archives exhibit, "A Good for the Public: Public Social Welfare in Rhode Island," continues to tell many of these stories about State Institutions.

Secretary of State Gregg M. Amore, Theresa Moore, Founder of T-Time Productions and John Hill, Chair of the Cranston Historical Cemetery Commission, will highlight how the Rhode Island State Archives helped uncover and digitize historic records related to those buried in the cemetery. We’ll also explore how this project inspired new educational curriculum at the Rhode Island Training School and engaged volunteers in restoring the cemetery grounds behind the school.

All are welcome. We invite volunteers, teachers, local historians, reporters and cemetery commission members and anyone interested to join in celebrating the completion of this project.

Reserve your spot HERE

Announcing the RILA Member App!

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 19:55:15 GMT

We are pleased to announce that our membership software company (Wild Apricot/Personify) has released a free member app, available for both Apple and Android. With the RILA membership app, you can view your profile, edit your contact information, renew your membership right from your device, view your membership card to get discounts to local bookstores, see which events you are registered for, and more!

Please note: The member app cannot be branded as "RILA" at this time, so on your device it will just say "Member App" with this logo:

Rhode Island Center for the Book Honors Ed Garcia with 2025 Page Turner Award

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 19:51:24 GMT

The Rhode Island Center for the Book proudly presented Ed Garcia, Director of the Cranston Public Library, with the 2025 Page Turner Award during a celebration held on November 13 at the William Hall Library. Established in 2023, the Page Turner Award honors a librarian or educator who has made an outstanding contribution to the Center’s mission and who champions the joy of reading throughout the state.

“Ed was the only person we considered for this year’s award,” said Kate Lentz, Director of the Rhode Island Center for the Book. “His leadership and unwavering commitment to the Freedom to Read have been truly exceptional.”

Garcia, a nationally respected library leader and a driving force behind Rhode Island’s efforts to safeguard intellectual freedom, reflected on the significance of the recognition. “I am deeply honored to receive the Page Turner Award and to have my work recognized by the Rhode Island Center for the Book,” he said. “Libraries are the pillars of our democracy, places where everyone can freely explore ideas and stories that shape who we are. I share this recognition with all my colleagues who work every day to protect the freedom to read and foster a love of books in our community.”

The celebratory event brought together colleagues, community members, and statewide library champions. Highlights included a surprise presentation of a custom wrestling belt by Representative David “The Commissioner” Morales, along with warm and spirited toasts from incoming ALA President-Elect Dr. Maria McCauley and Cheryl Space, Director of Community Libraries of Providence.

In reflecting on the celebration, Cheryl said, "Ed warmly and sincerely thanked his family, his library director peers, state and city leaders, RILA, and, notably, his Cranston Public Library Staff for this honor. In typical Ed fashion, he deflected the light of recognition onto all who have been part of his advocacy and leadership efforts. His son, in a very personal and heartfelt toast, noted that his dad is one of the hardest workers around."

The evening served as a joyful reminder of the strength, passion, and advocacy within Rhode Island’s library community and of Ed Garcia’s exceptional leadership.

Here's a photo of Ed and his family at the event:

"The Librarians" at Jane Pickens Theater in Newport on 11/18 at 6 pm

Sat, 15 Nov 2025 15:28:09 GMT

Join RILA and SLRI for a screening of "The Librarians" at The Jane Pickens Theater and Event Center, 49 Touro Street, Newport on Tuesday November 18, 2025 at 6 pm. Tickets are $15.00.

The film starts at 6 pm and runs for 92 minutes. It is a documentary that follows the experiences of librarians in Texas, Florida, and other states who find themselves on the frontlines as defenders of Intellectual Freedom.

While you are purchasing your movie snacks, please visit our Library Advocacy table in the theater lobby where you can sign a petition supporting the “RI School Libraries Act”. If passed by the RI State Legislature, this will require a full-time certified and degreed librarian in each public school in RI.

After the film, join RILA and SLRI librarians for a brief discussion about RI libraries and how we are fighting for Intellectual Freedom in our state.

To purchase tickets in advance or get directions to the theater, go to the theater’s website: The JPT Film + Event Center | Show & Event Calendar | The Librarians https://share.google/h3XqENZiknl6Vc0mF

NECHE Standards Revision feedback virtual meeting 10/29

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 15:26:26 GMT

Topic: NECHE Standards Revisions feedback virtual meeting – LIBRARY

Wednesday, October 29, 2025, 9:30 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.: Join Meeting

Registration for the virtual meeting is not required.

TIMELY INFORMATION FOR LIBRARIANS AND EDUCATORS:

Due to the over 500 letters they received calling for reconsideration, The New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE) will host an open meeting on Weds, 10/29 at 9:30-10 am EST in response to it’s proposed removal of all references to libraries, librarians, and library services from its draft 2026 accreditation standards.

Proposed removal: The draft, which is being finalized in late 2025 for a July 2026 effective date, *eliminates* specific language mentioning libraries, librarians, and information literacy.

We need all who understand the value of libraries in the higher education experience and degree attainment for students overall, and for first generation and students from lower income households, in particular, to show up on this call.

Find the info below and the link to attend here: https://lnkd.in/gmrUq4pj

*Reminder: You don’t need to be a resident of New England, just a stakeholder (as each of us surely is)

Cornucopia of Rhode Island Farewell Celebration

Mon, 13 Oct 2025 19:40:58 GMT

It’s Bittersweet: CORI’s Farewell Celebration

Incorporated in September 2005, Cornucopia of Rhode Island: A Library Community of Color hosted their last event following a heavy rainfall on Thursday evening September 25, 2025, at the Rhode Island State Library. The farewell celebration speakers included Rhode Island United States Senator and library champion, Jack Reed, a staunch supporter of CORI since it’s inception. Senator Reed ‘s congratulatory and auspicious remarks will always remind librarians nationwide how fortunate we are to have his backing.

Rhode Island Congressman Gabe Amo could not attend in person but sent an enthralling short video congratulating and thanking CORI for their work and encouraging the Rhode Island librarians to continue the much-needed library endeavors in their local communities.

Andrew Sekou Jackson retired executive director Langston Hughes Community Library and Cultural Center, Queens, New York, and past president of the Black Caucus of the American Library Association was the evening featured speaker. Sekou was also CORI’s very first speaker at the inaugural event in September 2005 and it was most fitting for him to return on Thursday evening, although it was via Zoom due to his teaching schedule.

Many of the over forty-four guests in attendance were graduates or faculty members from the University of Rhode Island, Master of Library and Information Studies program. CORI’s co-founder Dr. Michael Havener, a former dean of the GSLIS program, flew in from Florida to join in the farewell festivities and greeted each of them as they were all ecstatic to see him.

Keith W. Stokes, Rhode Island historian laureate and associate director, State of Rhode Island, Division of Equity, Diversity & Inclusion and Los Angles, California poet, Lynda V. E. Crawford completed the evening with their engrossing and stimulating remarks. Lynda entranced the audience with reciting poetry from her recently published book, Washing Water (World Stage Press, 2024).

During the duration of the evening, a video thread showing various photos of CORI’s events throughout the last twenty years brought back memories. Former librarian of Congress Dr. Carla Hayden, the first woman and first African American to be appointed Librarian of Congress, and current senior fellow at the Mellon Foundation contacted CORI to express her regrets in not being able to attend the farewell celebration. Dr. Hayden, a former roommate and close friend of the late CORI co-founder Dr. Donna Gilton, requested that Rhode Island librarians continue to recruit librarians of color to the state.

Cornucopia of Rhode Island would like to thank the Rhode Island Library Association, the School Librarians of Rhode Island, the Office of Library & Information Services, and the Rhode Island library community for their assistance and support throughout the years. We are grateful to have worked with such an amazing group of colleagues. Thank you.

Submitted by,

Ida D. McGhee

Urgent Call for Public Comment: NECHE Standards remove libraries

Fri, 10 Oct 2025 14:14:53 GMT

Recently, the New England Commission of Higher Education’s draft 2026 Accreditation Standards eliminate all references to libraries, librarians, and information resources. In the 2021 standards, libraries were recognized as essential to teaching, learning, research, institutional mission, and student success. In the 2026 draft, those terms are absent across the board.

EveryLibrary has drafted an analysis that makes the stakes clear:

Without accreditation language, libraries shift from required infrastructure to optional amenities.
Accreditation standards drive budgets. If libraries aren’t part of accreditation, institutions under financial pressure may close them or redirect funds elsewhere.
Faculty governance and shared academic roles are at risk. Removing librarians from the definition of academic staff weakens their place in curricular design, assessment, and governance.

The public comment period is open until October 15, 2025, and NECHE will finalize the standards in December. Once libraries are erased from accreditation, regaining that ground will be far more difficult.

What you can do:

Read EveryLibrary’s analysis: https://docs.google.com/document/d/10MJW5k0sow-JDHby0f07LQ2XVuTIP9fWxs0_MaDnnKs/edit?tab=t.0
Submit a public comment: Standardsreview@neche.org
Share this with colleagues, faculty, students, and organizations that care about academic quality in New England.

Sample comment language you can adapt:

NECHE must restore explicit references to libraries, librarians, and information resources in the 2026 Accreditation Standards. The 2021 standards recognized them across multiple areas: as academic staff (6.2), as required institutional resources (7.22), as part of student learning outcomes (4.19), and as a key element of transparency and disclosure (9.20). Their removal undermines both academic quality and society’s broader commitment to equitable access to knowledge.

Academic Staff (2021 Standard 6.2 → Draft 2.6): Librarians must be recognized as part of the academic workforce. Their teaching, advisory, and research roles are critical to student success and faculty scholarship.
Institutional Resources (2021 Standard 7.22 → Draft 3.9): Accreditation must explicitly require library and information resources, services, facilities, and qualified staff. Without this anchor, institutions under financial pressure may close libraries or divert funds elsewhere.
Educational Effectiveness (2021 Standard 4.19): Information literacy and mastery of resources must remain expected learning outcomes. Removing them devalues critical thinking and undermines students’ preparation for informed participation in society.
Public Disclosure (2021 Standard 9.20 → Draft 5.3): Institutions must continue to disclose the library and information resources available to students. Removing this requirement reduces transparency and accountability.

Accreditation standards shape budgets, governance, and institutional priorities. If libraries are absent from NECHE’s framework, they risk being treated as optional rather than essential. This threatens not only the stability of campus libraries but also society’s recognition of libraries everywhere as vital infrastructure for education, equity, and democracy.

Libraries, librarians, and information resources must remain visible, valued, and required in NECHE accreditation standards.

You helped pass the RI Freedom to Read Act because you understand the importance of protecting core democratic and educational infrastructures when they are threatened. I hope you’ll lend your voices here, too.

Thank you for standing up once again for librarians, students, educators, and our communities.

RI State Library Celebrated Its 130th Anniversary As a Member of the Federal Depository Library Program

Fri, 10 Oct 2025 14:12:06 GMT

The RI State Library celebrated its 130th anniversary as a member of the Federal Depository Library Program (FDLP) on September 22, 2025 with a series of passionate speakers and an enthusiastic group of library supporters in attendance at the RI State House. The State Library was established in 1852 to provide access to state government information and publications. While the Library began receiving federal government materials as early as 1886, it officially became a Federal Depository in 1895. Serving as a FDLP member library entails maintaining a physical collection of publications as well as, increasingly, providing research expertise as patrons navigate the vast collection of US publications and data online.

The anniversary event was attended by over fifty guests and leaders from the library, archives and cultural community. The slate of speakers celebrated the fundamental right of public access to information and the value of libraries in preserving and providing access to government information as essential to maintaining an informed citizenry. Hosted by Secretary of State Gregg Amore and State Librarian Kate Wells, speakers included Lt. Governor Sabina Matos, General Treasurer James Diossa, RI Senator Mark McKenney and RI Representative David Morales, US Senator Jack Reed and Wendy Schiller of Brown University. In addition, the State Library recognized the twenty-five-year career and contributions of Federal Government Documents Librarian Ann Teixeira, who will be retiring on October 31, 2025.

Banned Books Week: 1984 and How We Protect Our Freedoms

Thu, 09 Oct 2025 18:11:05 GMT

In celebration of Banned Books Week 2025, the Rhode Island Library Association partnered with the Rhode Island ACLU affiliate to host a discussion on the frequently challenged and historically banned book, 1984 by George Orwell. Local author and journalist Philip Eil read selected excerpts from 1984, sparking a thought-provoking and engaging discussion among the 100 attendees. The discussion explored the novel’s continued relevance, drawing connections between Orwell’s themes and contemporary issues today.

NPR Children's Associate Judy Akid: The influence of diverse children’s books in shaping social and political identity: exploring the effects of representation, banning, and cultural perception

Thu, 09 Oct 2025 18:06:21 GMT

Judy Akid is a Children's Associate at the North Providence Union Free Library. She can share her findings with us at a future library meeting or event. For her research report, please visit: https://engaged-learning.providence.edu/judy-akid-27/

From Providence College Political Science Department:

This summer, Judy Akid, a junior in Political Science, conducted research on how themes of social representation, identity, and politics are portrayed in Arab-American children's books. Working with Dr. Gizem Zencirci, chair of the Middle East Studies Program at Providence College, Judy built on her work experience at the North Providence Children's Library to design an original project. Rather than simply completing an assignment, she was "excited by the possibility of researching Arab-American children's books and their more in-depth political and social implications, and how they affect children's ability to help form their identities."

Judy’s research was supported by the Center for Engaged Learning. With the funding and guidance, she was able to gather books, identify key themes, and create a public-facing outlet for her findings through Instagram and an upcoming website. She also received valuable support fromLauri Hornik, President of Dial Books for Young Readers at Penguin Young Readers Group.

The result is a truly unique political science project that reflects on core issues in an area that many people might overlook. Judy found the greatest challenge was that each book opened new directions for future political research. Reflecting on her experience, she offered this advice to current and future students: "I would encourage every student who is curious or has a deep interest in anything to pursue research in it and try to learn as much as they can about it. Doing this research has truly been such an enriching opportunity to be a part of, and I would do it again if I could, and I would encourage students to apply to the Engaged Learning Summer Research Program."

https://engaged-learning.providence.edu/judy-akid-27/

A Spooky Night at Knight to raise funds for Community Libraries of Providence

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 19:22:01 GMT

Buy tickets NOW for CLPVD’s Halloween cocktail fundraiser and save 25% off the price! Put on your spookiest attire, invite family and friends and enjoy a monstrously good time!

Spooky Night at Knight will be held on Thursday, October 30 from 6:00PM -10:00PM at Knight Memorial Library, 275 Elmwood Avenue, Providence. Tickets are available for purchase and required for admission.

https://clpvd.networkforgood.com/events/88983-a-spooky-night-at-knight

Toy Slumber Party at the RI State Police Museum!

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 19:15:21 GMT

North Scituate, RI — September 2025 —

In celebration of the 100th Anniversary of the Rhode Island State Police, Hope Library hosted a one-of-a-kind family event: a Toy Slumber Party at the RI State Police Museum on Saturday, September 27 at 2:00 PM.

Children were invited to bring a favorite stuffed animal or doll for a special afternoon at the museum, followed by an unforgettable overnight adventure for their toys.

The fun began with a guided tour of the museum and a special showing of the beloved film Corduroy. Afterward, the children headed home, while their stuffed companions stayed behind to enjoy a night full of surprises with Trooper Boots, the RI State Police bear mascot.

As Trooper Boots lead the toys through their overnight escapades, museum and library staff captured the magic in photos. Each child received a personalized keepsake storybook, complete with highlights of their toy’s adventures, when they returned to pick them up the following morning, Sunday, September 28 at 10:00 AM.

Families were able to follow along in real-time by checking out updates on social media at #NightattheRIStatePoliceMuseum.

The event was covered by Channel 10 News. Click HERE to read the full story.

Banned Books Week Event: 1984 and How We Protect Our Freedoms

Sat, 20 Sep 2025 12:35:52 GMT

Join us for a discussion of the historically-banned book 1984 by George Orwell.

A speaker will read excerpts from the novel, we will have a group discussion of the common themes between the book and current threats to our rights, and then ACLU staff will explain ways you can help protect our freedoms in Rhode Island. You’ll leave the event with a packet of resources and tools to take action!

This event is free and open to all. In collaboration with the Rhode Island Library Association. Please register here so the organizers know how many people to expect.

You do not have to read 1984 in advance, but we encourage you to get a copy from your local library or bookstore or to watch a film adaptation prior to the event!

*This event is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Cranston Public Library.

Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month with the 2026 RI Latino Books Award Nominees!

Wed, 17 Sep 2025 17:16:42 GMT

Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month with the 2026 RI Latino Books Award Nominees!

The RI Latino Books Award Committee is proud to announce the 2026 RI Latino Books Award Nominees, just in time for the start of Hispanic Heritage Month, which is celebrated from September 15th through October 15th.

The Rhode Island Latino Books Award and Rhode Island Latino Arts promote books for young readers, written by Latino/Latina/Latinx authors & illustrators.

Please visit our website to print out the flyer, book labels, poster, and for more information.

https://www.rilatinoarts.org/LatinoBooksAward.html

Warren library celebrates 4th of July 250

Wed, 17 Sep 2025 17:13:40 GMT

The George Hail Free Library has created an exhibit of items and documents dating back 250 years. You can see this in person or through our digital collection at https://www.georgehail.org/charles-whipple-greene-museum.

Opening Reception on September 19 from 5 to 8 pm. No registration required.

Free Webinar: Family Tree Basics for Beginners

Wed, 10 Sep 2025 16:22:56 GMT

Curious about your roots but not sure where to begin? Join members of the Rhode Island Genealogical Society Board for a friendly, informative introduction to family history research.
This one-hour session covers:

How to get started
Organizing what you already know
Using online tools
The role of DNA in genealogy

Whether you're just beginning or need help navigating your next steps, this is your chance to ask questions and learn in a supportive environment.

September 18th 6:30 PM EST

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/family-tree-basics-for-beginners-tickets-1629047528009?aff=oddtdtcreator

Freedom to Read bill ceremonial signing by Gov. McKee

Thu, 14 Aug 2025 17:02:48 GMT

Thank you to everyone who worked on the Freedom to Read bill from the very beginning to its passage on July 2! A ceremonial signing by Governor Dan McKee was held on August 12 at the Rochambeau Library in Providence. Present at the ceremony were the bill sponsors, Freedom to Read Coalition members, librarians, and community members. Thank you especially to bill sponsors Representative David Morales and Senator Mark McKenney, Freedom to Read Coalition members, RILA's Legislative Action Committee, Director of the Community Libraries of Providence Cheryl Space for hosting the event, and many others who have championed this bill from its inception into law. I also appreciate the support from Speaker K. Joseph Shekarchi, Senate President Valarie Lawson, and Providence Mayor Brett Smiley who were in attendance.

Enjoy several photos from the momentous event! Photos provided by Padma Venkatraman, Jeanette Bradley, and Geoff Visgili

Rhode Island's Freedom to Read bill

Fri, 01 Aug 2025 19:33:56 GMT

Rhode Island's Freedom to Read bill, which has been signed by Governor McKee, gives all Rhode Islanders a reason to celebrate! With the passage of this important piece of legislation, Rhode Island has officially recognized (and protected) the professional judgment of librarians in curating library collections; the rights of creators to write and illustrate books without fear of censors; and, the right of all people to access collections that reflect the true diversity and history of the American people. Importantly, this bill standardizes collection development and reconsideration policies in school and public libraries and limits the ability to raise concerns to people either living in the municipality (public libraries) or a teacher, student or parent in the school community (school libraries), blunting the influence of national groups attempting to ban books.

"Rhode Island’s Freedom to Read Act is the first in the nation to guarantee a private right of action against book restrictions to readers and writers impacted by censorship, offering a crucial tool to fight book bans" (PEN America, July 10, 2025: https://pen.org/press-release/rhode-island-freedom-to-read-act-is-first-in-nation-with-special-guarantees-to-writers-and-readers-against-censorship/)

It is famously challenging to get bills voted into law in Rhode Island. Fortunately, the vast ocean of passionate, tireless, advocates for the Freedom to Read, including Rhode Island lawyers, authors/ illustrators (Rhode Island Authors Against Book Bans), readers, librarians, youth (special shout out to ARISE and Young Voices), educators, religious leaders, and aligned advocates for other causes (like the Womxn Project and the Providence League of Women Voters), working side by side with national supporters, including Penguin Random House, EveryLibrary, and PEN America, joined together and built a swell of voices calling for free expression in our state! When we go together, we truly are stronger. Many thanks to the entire Freedom to Read coalition for the vast number of hours spent ensuring the passage of this bill.

Everyone is invited to celebrate Rhode Island's Freedom to Read bill on August 12th at 1:00 PM at a ceremonial bill signing with Governor Dan McKee, Representative David Morales, and Senator Mark McKenney. Senator McKenney and Representative Morales are the lead sponsors of this bill and worked tirelessly with advocates to get the Freedom to Read legislation passed this year. We owe them both a tremendous debt of gratitude, along with all of our legislators who co-sponsored and supported this important safeguard to our freedom to create, read, and access materials freely in our libraries. Location: Rochambeau Library in Providence at 708 Hope Street.

Rogers Free Library in Bristol Parade

Fri, 01 Aug 2025 19:08:01 GMT

Rogers Free Library celebrated the Freedom to Read by participating in the longest running 4th of July celebration in the country. The library team and tireless volunteers put together a magnificent float showcasing super-sized books and the stories they tell. Revelers spotted Moby Dick, Captain Ahab and Harry Potter’s lightning bolt scar. They cheered the library on with claps and chants like: Read more books!

Adult Summer Camp

Fri, 01 Aug 2025 18:57:23 GMT

Adult Summer Camp is a smash hit at Barrington Public Library! Who says kids should have all the fun? For the second year, Barrington Public Library has held an Adult Summer Camp program that encourages adults to embrace their inner child as they participate in fun activities and workshops across two sessions. This year our campers decoupaged plant pots, sewed their own bucket hats, played indoor games including bocce, darts, and cornhole, needle felted mushrooms, belly danced, learned how to make summer rolls and more! Adult Summer Camp is a great way to learn new skills, get out of your comfort zone, and make new memories with like-minded individuals in a welcoming and inclusive environment. Campers earn badges for the completion of every activity as well as a special prize at the end of every session. If you want to learn about how to run your own Adult Summer Camp, contact Siobhan Egan at segan@barringtonlibrary.org

Thank You, Rhode Island

Mon, 28 Jul 2025 14:20:48 GMT

Upon retiring in 2003 from the Hartford Public Library in Connecticut and relocating to South County, Rhode Island, I met with Dr. Michael Havener, the then dean of the University of Rhode Island Graduate School Library and Information Studies program. I had known Dr. Havener from various library committee meetings throughout New England. We met to discuss the number of unrepresented students of color in the GSLIS program. I humored him by stating “I guess they do not have any Black librarians in Rhode Island …” I asked him this question due to my attendance at the recent Rhode Island Library Association annual conference at Bryant University. I fondly remember seeing only one librarian of color that spring day, Marlene Lopes, now retired, special collections librarian at Rhode Island College, who became a member of CORI.

I am not sure what Dr. Havener said to Dr. Donna Gilton, a former professor in the program, now deceased, but Donna always used to tell me, “He instructed me to meet with you.” I recollect saying to her, “as a seasoned educator and a pioneering voice in the library world and due to your immense expertise and passion for librarians, he selected the right professor to meet with me.” And not to mention her institutional and community knowledge. Our dear founding member Dr. Gilton, passed November 28, 2023.

Our first CORI meeting included Attorney Denise Dowdell, a former librarian, and designer of the CORI logo. Dr. Havener, Dr. Gilton, Denise and I would meet several times a month at the home of Dr. GIlton and her mother, Mrs. Hattie Gilton, whom we decided would be ex-officio of our organization. Plus, Mother Hattie always prepared a full course meal, whether it was breakfast, lunch or dinner and we always sat at the formal dining room table. No wonder it took forever to incorporate, we procrastinated just to continue with Mother Hattie’s sumptuous meals.

After months of meetings, research, and discussions, in September 2005 we had our inaugural program at URI’s University Club. An invitation to every RI librarian and library worker of color that Gilton and Havener could think of, including current and former URI GSLIS Prism Fellows, was disseminated. Librarians of color from neighboring states, Connecticut and Massachusetts were also invited and many attended. Our featured speaker for the luncheon was Andrew P. Jackson (Sekou Molefi Baako) former executive director of the Queens Library's Langston Hughes Community Library & Cultural Center in New York. Andrew has returned to RI on several occasions as guest speaker for CORI as well as for RILA annual conferences. (He is also on program for our September 25^th event.)

Since inception, CORI has presented at RILA’s annual conferences as well as established a yearly fall mini conference. Guests’ speakers included well-known and prominent librarians throughout the country. From Dr. Carla Hayden, former Librarian of Congress who returned her honorarium from RILA and benefited it to CORI, with the stipulation that it be used for future CORI programs, to presidents and executives of the American Library Association and Jack Reed, Senior Senator of Rhode Island.

Without the URI GSLIS support, there would be no CORI. Nor would we have existed without the numerous librarians, library support staff and libraries that opened their doors so that CORI could have a meeting or present their mini conferences.

Of course, my biggest thank you are to the many that served as CORI officers and to all the members throughout the years. Never forget that the countless hours you volunteered will always be appreciated as you are why CORI impacted not only Rhode Island but the nation, as we are nationally known. It is bittersweet to end this run, and I am eternally grateful.

Please save the date and join CORI as we mix & mingle in an evening of celebration and remembrance on Thursday, September 25, 2025, from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m. at the Rhode Island State Library, 82 Smith Street in Providence. You are welcome to bring a friend and colleague.

For additional information on CORI, see https://cornucopiaofri.blogspot.com/

Sadly submitted by,

Ida D. McGhee

Rhode Island Legislators Show Support for Libraries During National Library Week

Fri, 13 Jun 2025 19:53:26 GMT

Rhode Island legislators and advocates for freedom to read stopped by the State House Library during National Library Week on April 8, 2025. Legislators were invited to come by to pose for photos to promote the Freedom to Read bills and enter RILA’s free raffle for a Free People Read Freely gift basket. The mood was joyful as guests visited tables and representatives from RILA, as well as advocates for school librarians (Peter Quesnel and Tasha White) and the Freedom to Read Coalition (Cheryl Space). State Librarian Kate Wells co-hosted the event with RILA, and created a fun, engaging board display.

During the legislative sessions that day, both the House and the Senate read and passed resolutions proclaiming April 6-12, 2025, to be National Library Week in the State of Rhode Island. Representing RI libraries were Ed Garcia and Aaron Coutu-Jones for House resolution H6196, and Cheryl Space and Julie Holden for Senate resolution S0961. Below is a selection of photos from the day:

RILA Member-at-Large Nomi Hague with Jocelyn Foye, Executive Director, The Womxn Project and Marie LaHara, volunteer for The Womxn Project. Photo credit: Sarah Bouvier

Representative David Morales -D7, lead sponsor of H 5726. Photo credit: Sarah Bouvier

Senator Mark McKenney - D30, lead sponsor of S 0238. Photo credit: Sarah Bouvier

Guests visit tables representing school librarians and Freedom to Read Coalition. Also in photo: State Librarian, Kate Wells; school librarians Peter Quesnel and Tasha White. Photo credit: Sarah Bouvier

National Library Week engagement board, created by Kate Wells

Senator Tiara Mack with Legislative Intern. Photo credit: Sarah Bouvier

In photo, facing camera: Senator Alana M. DiMaurio, Senator Hannah M. Gallo, Representative Carol Hagan McEntee. Photo credit: Sarah Bouvier

Senator McKenney explores the United Against Book Bans’ Book Resumes. Photo credit: Sarah Bouvier

Representative Susan R. Donovan, winner of the RILA free raffle, Freedom to Read gift basket. Photo credit: Sarah Bouvier

Rhode Island Latino Books Award Committee is seeking new members!

Tue, 03 Jun 2025 13:48:59 GMT

RILBA Committee Seeking New Members

The Rhode Island Latino Books Award Committee, part of Rhode Island Latino Arts, is seeking new members to serve a 2-year term beginning September 2025. Each year, the RILBA committee selects the nominees for grades K-12 for the award. Rhode Island students are encouraged to read from the booklist and vote for their favorite book. For more information, please visit our webpage.

New Members should:
-Be a Public Youth Services/Teen/Children's Librarian in Rhode Island, School Librarian or Educator
-Commit to reading 5 to 10 books each month including chapter books, picture books, graphic novels, and more
- Have experience working with school age children or teens
- Have an interest in children's or teen literature or both
- Virtual meetings on the 1st Wednesday of every month starting September 2025, 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., September to May

If you are interested in joining the committee or have any questions, please feel free to email mcotto@pawtucketlibrary.org

Thank you!

Amidst Trump Admin Attacks, RI Delegation & Local Librarians Highlight Importance of Public Libraries

Tue, 03 Jun 2025 13:31:25 GMT

CRANSTON, RI – The Trump Administration is targeting the main source of federal funding for public libraries across the nation, putting interlibrary lending, adult education, summer reading, workforce development, and many other essential programs and community services in jeopardy.

As public libraries continue to grapple with an uncertain future due to the Trump Administration’s attacks on the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), U.S. Senators Jack Reed and Sheldon Whitehouse and U.S. Representatives Seth Magaziner and Gabe Amo are teaming up with Ocean State librarians and advocates to underscore the important role libraries play in the state’s communities and to urge robust federal support for the nation’s public libraries.

In Rhode Island, IMLS cuts proposed by the Trump Administration would eliminate roughly 45 percent of the Office of Library and Information Services’ (OLIS) budget. OLIS is Rhode Island’s state library agency and provides support and services to libraries across the state.

Today, the Rhode Island congressional delegation joined Rhode Island Chief of Library Services, Karen Mellor, Director of Cranston Public Library, Ed Garcia, and library directors from across Rhode Island to discuss the Trump Administration’s latest actions and work being done in congress to protect IMLS and strengthen federal funding and support for libraries.

“The Trump Administration’s attacks on public libraries and IMLS are really an attack on learning, knowledge, and opportunity,” said Senator Reed, the leading champion of public libraries in Congress. “Public libraries are among the best institutions we have, providing central gathering places where all community members are welcome to access an entire world of information. I’m proud that Rhode Island is helping to lead the push against President Trump’s misguided IMLS cuts. And I will continue to fight to ensure our libraries have the funding, resources, and support they need to serve our communities.”

“Public libraries enrich lives and make communities stronger,” said Whitehouse. “As the Trump administration makes chaotic cuts to public libraries, I will do everything in my power to protect federal programs and resources that so many Rhode Islanders rely on.”

“Public libraries in Rhode Island are essential for people of all ages, as a source of education and community building,” said Magaziner. “President Trump’s plan to cut funding for Rhode Island libraries and museums to pay for tax breaks for billionaires is cruel and shortsighted, and we are determined to fight back.”

“From my first-hand experiences at the Pawtucket Public Library in my youth, I truly believe that public libraries are an invaluable resource for Rhode Islanders to achieve so many goals,” said Congressman Gabe Amo (RI-01). “Whether using their local library’s internet to search for a job or checking out a book to learn a new skill, the least resourced Rhode Islanders will be hit hardest by Trump’s attacks on libraries and museums. Funding and resources for museums and libraries help communities thrive and I will fight in Congress every day to make sure these vital community hubs have the funding they need to succeed.”

“Every city and town in Rhode Island has a public library, and they work together as a seamless network to provide services and programs for children, students, jobseekers, adult learners, senior citizens, and anyone in between,” said Karen Mellor, Chief of the state’s Office of Library and Information Services. “We are extremely grateful to our congressional delegation for their ongoing efforts to preserve the federal funding that enables our agency to provide and support critical services for Rhode Islanders at libraries across the state.”

“When we rally for libraries, we rally for the heart of our communities - our libraries, our museums, our educators, and our future. Our entire congressional delegation understands what is at stake, and we are proud to stand with them to ensure these vital institutions are not only protected but empowered to thrive,” said Ed Garcia, Director of Cranston Public Library. “Elimination of IMLS funding would be devastating to Rhode Island libraries and the communities we serve, putting important programs and servicesour patrons rely on at risk."

In March, President Trump issued an executive order that called for the closing of several government agencies, including the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). Following the order, all IMLS staff were put on leave and some states began seeing their previously awarded federal IMLS grants being rescinded.

While President Trump’s order has been challenged in federal court, the Administration has continued to target support for public libraries in a proposed budget that would eliminate funding for IMLS completely.

For the current year, Congress has provided more than $294 million to IMLS to support grants and research funding, including about $1.4 million for Rhode Island’s Office of Library & Information Services (OLIS) alone. Additionally, several Rhode Island institutions had their previously approved grants from IMLS rescinded, and recently received notification that their grants would be restored due to a court order.

In most cases, public libraries receive the majority of their funding from state and local budgets. IMLS provides critical federal grants to state library agencies that help to strengthen libraries and boost services for patrons, such as workforce development training, interlibrary loans, e-book and audiobook lending, and much more.

Project Linus Makes a Difference at William Hall Library

Tue, 03 Jun 2025 13:25:27 GMT

On March 29, over 200 patrons and volunteers packed the William Hall Library auditorium throughout the day on behalf of the Rhode Island Chapter of Project Linus. The goal of the day is to make as many blankets as possible to donate to youth undergoing traumatic circumstances. The event, called Project Linus Blanket Day, is an offshoot of the weekly Knit and Crochet Drop-In that has been taking place at William Hall Library for several years.

According to the Project Linus website, the mission of Project Linus is to “[p]rovide love, a sense of security, warmth and comfort to children who are seriously ill, traumatized, or otherwise in need through the gifts of new handmade blankets and afghans, lovingly created by volunteer ‘blanketeers’. ” Martha Sholes, a long-time member of William Hall’s weekly knitting group, coordinates efforts for the Rhode Island Chapter of Project Linus, and works with William Hall Branch Librarian Zach Berger to schedule two Blanket Days per year, one in the spring and one in the fall. But this important work is not done only on the two designated Blanket Days. Volunteers work all year long to produce blankets. Sholes delivers approximately 125 blankets per month to Hasbro Children's Hospital and 625 blankets quarterly to children in RI.

Michele Faust, a member of William Hall’s weekly knitting group, was enticed by Sholes a couple of years ago to get involved with Project Linus when she saw how fulfilling the work could be and how much need there is around the state for donated blankets. “Helping other people makes me feel good,” Faust says, and she credits the tireless work of Sholes and many other volunteers for producing quantifiable results.

The weekly knitting group is a regular source of volunteers for this effort. Faust acknowledges that “everybody has tried new challenges and gone out of their comfort zones to create usable items to donate. We share books of patterns and rely on in-kind contributions. People bring in scraps from home.” Blankets are knit, crocheted, quilted, or made from no-sew fleece.

The group, which meets on Wednesdays from 12:30-2:00 PM in the William Hall Library Program Room, is convivial and helpful, and though the weekly meetings are not set up as a class, no one is shy to ask for or to offer help.

The weekly drop-in group welcomes new members who, Faust, says, “want to feel good about their contributions and what they’re doing to help others.” But not everything produced by the group is for the purpose of donating to Project Linus, and the weekly meetings serve other useful social functions as well, including making the occasional out-of-towner feel welcome and engaged.

“The beauty of this whole project,” says Berger, “is its organic outgrowth of altruism and shared sense of community, all in service to a greater good. Whether these volunteers are using the weekly drop-in to socialize while planning for and creating future donations, to make gifts for their families, or are committing to helping in larger ways at the Blanket Day events themselves, everyone has a chance to contribute at their own pace and comfort level.”

The next Project Linus Blanket Day is scheduled at William Hall Library on Saturday, October 25. Watch the Events tab at cranstonlibrary.org for more information. For more information about Project Linus opportunities, please contact the Rhode Island state coordinator Martha Sholes at marthagsholes@gmail.com.

Response to the Dismissal of Dr. Carla Hayden, Librarian of Congress.

Mon, 12 May 2025 19:06:58 GMT

On the evening of May 8, Dr. Carla Hayden, our 14th Librarian of Congress, was fired, without any stated cause, via email by the Trump administration. Before her appointment as the first woman and African-American to lead the Library of Congress, Dr. Hayden had a long and distinguished career as a transformative leader of the Enoch Pratt Free Library in Baltimore, Maryland. The Rhode Island Library Association stands with the broader library community in condemning the dismissal of Dr. Hayden without cause.

RILA President Beatrice Pulliam on the dismissal of the Librarian of Congress: “During her tenure as the 14th Librarian of Congress, Dr. Hayden made the institution of the Library of Congress and its treasured collections accessible and approachable to everyone. Dr. Hayden is a visionary. Her leadership and commitment to modernizing the nation’s library serves as a model of excellence for the library profession and others serving the public. This is a serious blow to our profession and the country’s democratic ideals.”

Brownell Library receives national grant for small and rural libraries.

Wed, 07 May 2025 17:35:32 GMT

The Brownell Library has been selected as one of 300 libraries to participate in round three of Libraries Transforming Communities: Accessible Small and Rural Communities, an American Library Association (ALA) initiative that provides community engagement and accessibility resources to small and rural libraries to help them better serve people with disabilities. We will be using the $10,000 grant to upgrade our entryways to make them more accessible for all Little Compton residents. We are delighted to have been chosen for this opportunity.

Libraries Transforming Communities: Accessible Small and Rural Communities is an initiative of the American Library Association (ALA) in collaboration with the Association for Rural and Small Libraries (ARSL).

How the Executive Order on IMLS Affects Rhode Island Libraries

Wed, 02 Apr 2025 18:17:49 GMT

The March 14 Executive Order on IMLS will have a real impact for Rhode Island’s libraries. On March 31, all IMLS staff were placed on administrative leave. On April 1, twelve staff were recalled, leaving a skeleton crew at an agency that employed 75 staff on March 31. The Rhode Island Office of Library and Information Services (OLIS) has shared that the Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA), which is administered by IMLS, has long provided Rhode Island libraries with financial support for many innovative programs and projects over the years, makes up 45% of OLIS’s annual budget. This means that many critical library services are at risk, including the Talking Books Library program for blind and print-disabled Rhode Islanders, the statewide summer reading program, statewide interlibrary book delivery services, funding for key OLIS staff positions and much more. OLIS received $1,423,623 in LSTA funding in FY2025 to support core services and programs for Rhode Island libraries as mentioned above.

The Rhode Island Library Association opposes the cutting of federal funding to IMLS and stands in support of IMLS, museums and libraries nationwide. RILA also strongly opposes the reduction of IMLS staff to a level that makes it unable to fulfill its statutory duties. As library workers, we are concerned about the implications that the elimination of IMLS funding and staffing will have on Rhode Island libraries and its residents.

Now is the time to advocate for continued library funding by contacting your members of Congress and urging them to protect federal funding for libraries. Let them know that funding and services provided through the Institute of Museum and Library Services to the Rhode Island Office of Library and Information Services are critical to your library and the community you serve!

This is your association. As Rhode Islanders, your voice is important.

Resources:

Read OLIS’ FAQ on the impact of the March 14 Executive Order on IMLS.

Read OLIS’ Summary on March 14 Executive Order on IMLS.

Read the statement from the American Library Association.

National Campaigns:

Show Up For Our Libraries (ALA)

SaveIMLS.org campaign (EveryLibrary)

Read and Feed RI

Tue, 01 Apr 2025 14:11:41 GMT

In March, West Warwick Public Library signed an MOU with Feed RI, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that receives donations of food products to distribute to Rhode Island’s in-need residents. This new partnership is the pilot for the "Read and Feed" program, which Feed RI created after discussions with West Warwick Library staff, with the goal of rolling out the program to other libraries in the state.

At the end of March, the library took delivery of its first donation of food items from Feed RI which will now be used to help stock the Community Needs Pantry, which was established in 2022 through a LORI ARPA grant. This new partnership will help to ensure an ongoing and predictable supply of high-quality foodstuffs for individuals and families in West Warwick. The library has also been supported in addressing food needs by Dave’s Fresh Marketplace, Centreville Bank, Farm Fresh RI, and by donations from patrons.

The local community has many barriers to accessing healthful food options. In all of West Warwick, there is a single neighborhood grocery store and a plethora of “dollar stores”, three of which are within a five-minute walk from the library. For the past decade, the Youth Services department has been partnering with the West Warwick Public Schools, and last summer served over 1,400 free lunches to local children and teens. The library is also one of 13 libraries nationwide participating in the IMLS-funded Ready NOW: Supporting Youth and Families During Crisis initiative, with a focus on issues of food insecurity and healthy food choices.

(l-r) Maria Saillant (Language Programs Coordinator/Community Liaison), Rashaa Al-Sasah (Head of Youth Services), Jennifer Lima (Director of Operations, Feed RI), Caitlin Mendoza (Head of Circulation)

ALA FAQ on Executive Order Targeting IMLS

Wed, 19 Mar 2025 14:24:20 GMT

ALA has prepared an FAQ to help library workers, advocates and users understand the Executive Order: https://www.ala.org/faq-executive-order-targeting-imls

Rhode Island Genealogical Society | Funding Opportunities

Mon, 03 Mar 2025 18:32:29 GMT

The Rhode Island Genealogical Society welcomes applications for small amounts of funding in support of purchases, digitization or preservation of records to those researching Rhode Island ancestors.

Public or non-profit libraries within Rhode Island or non-profit organizations serving as repositories are welcome to apply for funding. An award typically ranges from $300-$2000. All awards will require a final report within twelve months.

Deadline to apply is April 1, 2025. https://www.rigensoc.org/cpage.php?pt=64

Statement on the Restriction of Library Book Access in the Glocester School District

Thu, 27 Feb 2025 20:23:46 GMT

The following statement was sent to Dr. Renee Palazzo, Superintendent of the Glocester Schools:

The shared, core vision of the Rhode Island Library Association (RILA) and the School Librarians of Rhode Island (SLRI) is to support libraries in protecting the rights to education, literacy, and intellectual freedom of the populations they serve.

We are concerned that across-the-board restrictions to access reading materials in the Glocester school libraries and limiting students' access to books would be a disservice to the parents and students and other members of the learning community. School libraries are charged with fostering a love of reading and learning. When a child finds a book they can see themselves in, it may make all the difference in how that student feels about reading and books in general as they continue their academic journey. In many cases, an elementary school is the first time a student gets the chance to experience the wonder of the library on a regular basis. This experience is often the catalyst for children becoming lifelong learners and readers.

Limiting access to books to students based on the needs of one student is contrary to a library’s overall mission to meet the needs and interests of all students. For example, if a parent tells the librarian that their student has nightmares and therefore should not borrow books with “scary” pictures, the librarian will recommend other, well-considered choices. This option should not be taken off the table for other students or their parents. In another scenario, parents often ask their child to bring home a specific beloved story to read aloud to them that might not appeal to other parents. What is good for one is not necessarily good for all.

Librarians are professionals who hold graduate degrees and are specifically trained to develop carefully curated collections for their libraries with professionally reviewed and award-winning books that fit the interest and needs of their patrons. Implementing a broad protocol to appease one parent’s request runs counter to the Library Bill of Rights which states that “books and other library resources should be provided for the interest, information, and enlightenment of all people of the community the library serves.”

The freedom to read is a human right, regardless of age, a right that is constitutionally protected by the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution and Article I, Section 21 of the Rhode Island State Constitution. These provisions ensure that all Rhode Islanders have access to information and the right to form their own opinions. Having the ability to think critically about the world around us is tantamount to being a productive and learned citizen.

RILA and SLRI urge the Glocester School District to rescind restrictions that limit students' access to books and to work with the district’s librarians to update library policies to encourage intellectual freedom and provide an orderly procedure for reconsideration of materials.

SLRI Flatbread Community Bake Event

Wed, 19 Feb 2025 17:21:12 GMT

Join SLRI for a fundraiser to help defray costs to garner support for the School Libraries Act. A full-time librarian in every school=student success! Hope to see you there!

Tuesday, March 4, 2025 from 5-9 PM

Flatbread Company

161 Cushing St., Providence, RI 02906

Greenville Public Library Appoints New Director

Thu, 06 Feb 2025 18:10:34 GMT

Greenville, RI – The Greenville Public Library Board of Trustees is pleased to announce the appointment of Library Director, Corrie Alves. Alves brings 23 years of library experience to her new position in Greenville. Most recently she served as the Technology Coordinator for the Cranston Public Library.

Alves received her Masters of Library and Information Services from the University of Rhode Island. A life-long Rhode Islander, she moved to Greenville four years ago with her family. Alves will begin her work at the Greenville Public Library in March.

Call for Proposals: 2025 Joint ACRL-NEC - NELIG Annual Conference

Thu, 06 Feb 2025 18:04:07 GMT

The ACRL New England Chapter & the New England Library Instruction Group (NELIG) are now accepting proposals for our 2025 Conference on 6/12 (Online) & 6/13 (at Holy Cross, Worcester, MA)! Proposal submissions are due by 3/4; please go to https://acrlnec.org/annual-conference/call-for-proposals/ for conference theme details and submission guidelines. Thank you!

Proposal Submission Deadline: Monday, March 3, 2025, 11:59pm EST

Conference Dates: June 12-13, 2025
Thursday June 12, 2025: Online
Friday June 13, 2025: College of the Holy Cross, Worcester, MA

ACRL-NEC and NELIG sessions will take place on both conference days.

https://acrlnec.org/annual-conference/call-for-proposals/

Call for Proposals_ 2025 Joint ACRL-NEC - NELIG Annual Conference.pdf

LibLearnX 2025 Impressions

Thu, 06 Feb 2025 18:02:25 GMT

One of my favorite parts of attending ALA’s LibLearnX 2025 in Phoenix, AZ last month was attending the “I Love My Librarian” Award Ceremony where 10 librarians from around the country were introduced and gave an acceptance speech. I was happy to see that I had met one of the honorees at a previous ALA Conference who, despite working in Hawaii, has ties to Rhode Island! (Jessica Gleason visited me at the Pawtucket Library when she was in the state visiting her in-laws after we met at that event!)

There were other great talks given by librarians from around the country along with some great authors including the very well-known graphic novel-creators Raina Telgemeier and Scott McCloud who are teaming up with “The Cartoonists Club,” which comes out in April! I also heard a debut novelist, Kyle Edwards, talk about his forthcoming book, “Small Ceremonies.” He is Canadian and Anishanaabe so his coming of age novel focuses on a group of Native hockey-playing high school students in Manitoba, Winnipeg.

Other favorite moments included the tour of the rare book collection of the Burton-Barr Phoenix Central Library, having lunch with an Air Force Base librarian from Oklahoma and meeting a young librarian from Washington state. Libraries all over the country are looking for ways to foster wellness among staff members, searching for new programming ideas for adults and supporting those experiencing dementia or Alzheimer’s.

– Robin Nyzio, Cranston Public Library, Adult Services Librarian

Five Libraries in the East Bay to Host an Evening with 'That Librarian,' Amanda Jones

Mon, 03 Feb 2025 14:59:13 GMT

Five libraries of the East Bay have come together to bring Amanda Jones, author of 'That Librarian: The Fight Against Book Banning in America,' to join us for a moderated discussion and Q&A session on Thursday, March 6th, at 6:30 pm.

Amanda will be joining us via Zoom, but you will have the option to watch from home via Zoom or join us at any of the five libraries to watch the livestream in person and engage in a discussion afterwards with your community members. Registration for this program will open on Thursday, February 6th.

This program is a collaboration among Rogers Free Library (Bristol), Bristol BookFest, George Hail Library (Warren), Barrington Public Library, Tiverton Public Library, and Brownell Library (Little Compton).

About Amanda Jones

Amanda Jones is an American librarian and anti-censorship advocate. Jones has been heavily involved in anti-book banning movements in the state of Louisiana and throughout the US. In 2023, she was awarded the American Association of School Librarians' Intellectual Freedom Award and the American Library Association's Paul Howard Award for Courage, which honors "an individual who has exhibited unusual courage for the benefit of library programs or services." Her book, 'That Librarian: The Fight Against Book Banning in America,' is part memoir, part manifesto, the inspiring story of a Louisiana librarian advocating for inclusivity on the front lines of our vicious culture wars.

Thursday, March 6 at 6:30 pm. Registration is required: rogersfreelibrary.libcal.com/calendar/programming/ThatLibrarian

Booked Author Series

Wed, 11 Dec 2024 21:34:52 GMT

Booked is bringing bestselling authors to Providence every month beginning in January!

Upcoming:
Tuesday, January 28th at 7 pm

Authors:

Catherine Newman (Sandwich)
Alison Espach (The Wedding People)
Betsy Lerner (Shred Sisters)
J. Courtney Sullivan (The Cliffs)

Details:

We’re thrilled to share details about an exciting monthly event, Booked, hosted on the last Tuesday of each month at 7 PM.

Here’s what to expect:

3-5 authors will read from their latest works.
A moderated discussion will provide insights into each author’s writing process and experiences.
Books (current and backlist) will be available for purchase, and authors will stay for book signings afterward.

The hosts aim to create a warm, relaxed, and fun atmosphere for all attendees.

If you’re a book lover or curious about the creative process, this is a fantastic opportunity to connect with authors and their stories!

Future Confirmed Authors (joining in the first half of 2025):

Ethan Joella (The Same Bright Stars)
Amity Gaige (Heartwood, out 4/1/25)
Annie Hartnett (The Road to Tender Hearts, out 4/29/25)

Registration/ticket required.

Learn more: www.bookedauthorseries.com

North Providence Welcomes Creative Content Coordinator Maura White

Wed, 11 Dec 2024 21:30:27 GMT

North Providence Union Free Library is pleased to announce the hiring of Maura White. In addition to her role as Administrative Assistant, Maura will also be the first of her kind at our library- Creative Content Coordinator. As Creative Content Coordinator, Maura plans to add unique visual aspects to library departments in a new and exciting manner. These aspects include hand-cut homemade props and signs to bring new life and attention to some existing overlooked areas and displays. Her unique perspective will enhance already existing services and programs, especially seasonal and special events like our annual Holiday Bazaar, Thrift Store, and fundraisers. Maura White formed a lifelong creative background first in writing and later in handmade design. After graduating with two degrees in communications, she followed her dream of working with greeting cards. Thriving on highly creative products she wrote and developed her own designs eventually seeing another dream develop later on. She started a small business creating sparkling awards and fun certificates for well over 200 designs. In between, she developed merchandising skills working in gift shops and retail. Maura has a love of creating, using lettering, texture and color. Working in this new position just might be another dream in the making.

Performer/ Educator Table Top Vendor Fair

Wed, 04 Dec 2024 21:10:35 GMT

Details: Calling all Magicians, Puppeteers, Artists, Musicians, Storytellers and Instructors with shows or programs geared for families, kids and teens. We are hosting a fair just for you.

Date: The Fair will be January 23, 2025 from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. please register to reserve a space.

Register here: https://forms.gle/UZVpTZUBCMARox6M6

2024 RILA Conference Recap - Thursday, May 23rd

Sat, 08 Jun 2024 15:29:04 GMT

Submitted by Rosemary Driscoll, Library Media Specialist, East Providence High School

It had been several years since I last attended the RILA Conference, and it didn't disappoint. Being back inside the Providence Public Library where I worked as a reference librarian in the 1980s was an added treat. As a high school librarian, I chose to attend the Thursday sessions, which focused on school libraries. Shout out to all the presenters. I would have loved to attend all of them, but sadly, I had to choose!

Book Talk Blitz

Alyssa Taft and Sarah Hunicke managed to summarize 75 YA books in this session in an entertaining, engaging, and informative way. To say their knowledge and enthusiasm were impressive is an understatement. I left that session not only eager to order many of the books for my high school but also excited to share that presentation with the English faculty.

Legislative Action Update

This session was presented by Ed Garcia, Bill Lancellotta, Marianne Mirando, and Cheryl Space and facilitated by Beatrice Pulliam. The panelists provided an update on pending statewide legislative efforts concerning Rhode Island libraries, including fair pricing for eBooks, freedom to read, and the first attempt to mandate a school librarian in every public school in the state. This last effort is especially important to me, and I look forward to contributing to the cause. Marianne Mirando discussed her fight against a book challenge at her high school. Her courage and activism were truly inspiring.

Keynote Speaker: Courtney Pentland

Courtney is a high school librarian in Nebraska as well as the 2023-2024 AASL President. Courtney’s theme for her presentation was “Finding Joy in the Journey.” Essentially, her message was that while the work and the challenges school librarians face--and there are plenty--can be daunting, we should not allow those challenges to weigh so heavily on us that we forget how gratifying, rewarding, and awesome being a school librarian can be. She shared strategies and techniques that she finds successful in engaging her school community. One stood out to me: she has upwards of 125 students in the library during all of the school lunches--and she allows them to eat!!! A courageous endeavor.

2025 RI Book Awards RICBA/RIMSBA/RILBA

This session was presented by Nomi Hague, Cranston Public Library; Rebecca Lelli, Narragansett Public Library; Michaela Reed, Blackrock Elementary; and Marissa Salvas, William D'Abate Elementary, for RICBA; Elena Rios, Cranston Public Library, and Britt Donahue, West Warwick Public Library, for RIMSBA; and Maria Cotto, Pawtucket Library, and Betsy Montes, Providence Country Day, for RILBA. The speakers highlighted the 2025 RI Children's Book, Middle School Book, and the Latino Book Award nominees. So many books, so little time! A truly inspiring presentation of the titles being nominated for these awards.

Library Tour

A big thank you to the staff members who provided tours of PPL. It certainly is a beautiful building and a welcoming educational and community space. What a walk down memory lane for me. The library I knew and worked in during the 1980s has transformed into a space equipped to meet today’s patrons where they are while respecting the past. Thank you to PPL for hosting this year’s conference.

2024 RILA Conference Recap - Wednesday, May 22nd

Sat, 08 Jun 2024 15:17:22 GMT

Submitted by Robin Nyzio, Adult Services Librarian, Cranston Public Library

Navigating the Census Bureau’s Website to Find the Data You Need

This was a great refresher to learn about how to better access Census Bureau information. David Kraiker from the U.S. Census Bureau also mentioned a site with their history: census.gov/history. He talked about the difference between the American Community Survey (ACS), which focuses on how people live, vs. the census, which focused on where people live. He also pointed out that the Census Bureau is a federal agency that contracts with other federal agencies, including the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Veteran Briefings: The VA Providence Healthcare System; Essential VA Websites and Veteran Suicide Prevention

VA Chief Librarian Cheryl Banick spoke generally about the VA itself before bringing up Community Engagement & Partnership Coordinator Kim Ferrante, LICSW. Kim is interested in outreach events at public libraries. As we all know, suicide is a public health concern for everyone and especially so for active duty and veterans. Kim has outreach programs focused on Lethal Means Reduction where she has free gun locks, ammunition locked bags, and medication bags. To contact her: kimberly.ferrante@va.gov.

Keynote speaker: Raul the Third

Having worked in children’s and teen services previously, I was aware of his work. His first book, Lowriders from Space, was created in collaboration with Portland, OR librarian Cathy Camper who reached out to him after seeing his artwork in a zine he created! He wrote and illustrated his newest picture book called Vamos! Let’s Go Read as a tribute to public libraries, where he spent so much of childhood and where he got his start illustrating as well. Great talk.

Libraries as a Trusted Election Resource

State Librarian Megan Hamlin-Black offered the Voter Information centers available to libraries. They provide a voter registration application, mail ballot application, signage, and more. She mentioned that a voter ID is available to those who are unhoused or their gender doesn’t match their state-issued ID. Those who don’t have an address can use the city or town hall as their address. She also talked about the Civics Education Division of the Secretary of State’s office. She supports lowering the voting age to 16 because it’s a way to create lifelong voters, which makes a lot of sense.

Building Information Literate Communities

Heather Pouliot Kisilywicz, MLIS, is a professional archivist and genealogist who believes that learning more about genealogy resources can benefit all public librarians. She talked about the ramifications of DNA testing for families who may not want to know that they are no longer related, for example.

2024 Spring Membership Drive Raffle Winners

Thu, 06 Jun 2024 15:26:52 GMT

The names have been drawn! Congratulations to our 2024 Spring Membership Drive raffle winners:

Cassidy Santos - new RILA member
Amy Golaski - new RILA member

Dhana Whiteing - referring RILA member
Mary Moen - referring RILA member

Each winner will receive a $25 gift card to Books on the Square in Providence. Thank you to all who participated. We love having new members, so don't forget to encourage your colleagues to join RILA today.

-The RILA Membership Committee

Rhode Island Library Association Presents Awards at Annual 2-day Conference

Tue, 04 Jun 2024 20:39:04 GMT

Providence, RI - The Rhode Island Library Association (RILA) presented its yearly awards at its Annual Conference, which was held May 22 and 23 at the Providence Public Library. The theme for the conference was “Connecting Communities.”

“We received many outstanding nominations this year and all of us are lucky to work with such incredible colleagues,” said RILA President Beatrice Pulliam.

The 2024 RILA Award winners are:

Library Champion Award: Marianne Mirando, Westerly High School Librarian, Westerly

When critics challenged the titles on the shelves of her school library, Mirando did not cave to pressure, but sought out guidance and support from the ACLU and the RI Attorney General’s office so that she could confidently defend the titles in the library. After meeting with critics, Mirando was able to secure her right to keep the titles in question on the shelf, ensuring that her students would not be denied access to them.

“While others remained silent, Marianne used her powerful voice to speak out against the critics and in defense of the titles under fire in a number of political forums. She was particularly vocal in her opposition to RI bill H6324, a bill that if signed into law would make it easier to ban books and make it possible to arrest librarians, teachers, and museum workers for including questioned books in their collections,” said Anthony Lementowicz, Dean of Teaching and Learning at Westerly High School.

Outstanding Librarian Award: Julie Holden, Assistant Director, Cranston Public Library

Holden is a nationally and locally respected library leader with a strong commitment to delivering an exceptional customer service experience to library patrons. She has helped create several successful program initiatives at CPL such as “You Are Here” and “Healthy Families at the Cranston Public Library,” and is one of the reasons CPL is an award winning library and one of the busiest libraries in the state. Additionally, Holden is a past president of the Rhode Island Library Association and is a leader in advocating for fair library ebook pricing and licensing legislation at the Rhode Island General Assembly.

“At CPL Julie focuses on patron satisfaction and works tirelessly to make sure we are offering the public what they are looking for in our collections, programs and services. She's a hands-on manager who is involved in the day-to-day operations of all six library locations, at the same time as she maintains a big-picture perspective, leading her own creative initiatives and challenging norms at the local and state level” said Ed Garcia, Library Director, Cranston Public Library.

Outstanding Library Paraprofessional Award: Kelly McKenna, Circulation Staff, Newport Public Library

Throughout his time at the library McKenna has gone above and beyond to serve the residents of Newport. Whether bringing library materials to remote and isolated individuals on the bookmobile, building connections with patrons at the circulation desk, and remembering all of his coworkers' birthdays, McKenna maintains strong relationships with the Newport community.

“Where some might see limits or challenges, Kelly sees opportunity. He is always empathetic towards patrons who struggle with their obligations and responsibilities, yet remains steadfast in his duty to work within the policy guidelines, many of which are honed over the course of years. Being able to balance efficiency with humanity is a hallmark of Kelly’s performance,” said Joseph Logue, Library Director, Newport Public Library.

Trustee of the Year Award: Eugene Mihaly, Chair, Board of Trustees, Jamestown Philomenian Library

Dr. Mihaly brings his varied experience in the educational and non-profit sector to his leadership role at the Jamestown Library, where he advocates for the library in the community and supports the needs of library staff. He provided a calm, steady, and supportive approach by leading the board, staff, and director through the often stressful times of the pandemic and a $5M library renovation and expansion project.

“His advocacy for libraries and their unparalleled role in the public has enabled the staff of JPL to feel supported in their positions, knowing that Milhaly truly understands the various roles we serve. I am honored to consider Gene a part of our library team,” said Lisa Sheley, Library Director, Jamestown Philomenian Library.

Outstanding Contributions to Library Profession Award: Dr. Valerie Karno, Director, Graduate School of Library & Information Science, University of Rhode Island

Karno has been the Director of the Graduate School of Library and Information Science for the last 10 years, beginning her tenure as interim director. Previously, Karno was a professor in the English Department at URI.

Karno spent her first few years as Director learning about the GSLIS and its students and alumni network, as well as the library profession throughout Rhode Island, New England, and the nation. Through her leadership, GSLIS regained a strong position at URI and in the state and region, with increased enrollment, improved retention rates, and increased funding from both external and internal sources.

As director of GSLIS, she has shepherded the school through the pandemic and its American Library Association accreditation process, while transforming the school into an online, accelerated program that is the fastest growing graduate program at URI. Karno also substantially increased the percentage of diverse students enrolled in the program, partially through scholarships and fellowships.

NELLS 2024 Information - Tier 1: Emerging Leaders

Tue, 21 May 2024 20:10:29 GMT

To better serve all levels of library workers, NELLS is currently working with a three tiered approach. For 2024, the NELLS program will be for Tier 1 - NELLS: Emerging Leaders. This program is designed to be an introduction to library leadership. It is most appropriate for early to mid-career library workers who have demonstrated potential to become leaders in the field, or who aspire to hold leadership positions. A Master’s degree in Library Science is not required in order to participate.

This program will be facilitated by Jami Yazdani, MLIS, of Yazdani Consulting and Facilitation. Jami has more than fifteen years of experience in libraries in progressively responsible positions, including more than twelve years in leadership roles. She has delivered training to a wide range of professionals, from bankers to dermatologists to librarians.

Applications due June 1st. Cohort will meet in person from August 5th - 7th at Southern New Hampshire State University, and will hold weekly virtual sessions on Thursday mornings from 10am - 11:30am from August 15th through October 3rd.

Apply here: https://www.nelib.org/nells-leadership

Registration Open: Generative AI in Libraries (GAIL) Conference

Mon, 06 May 2024 18:32:25 GMT

Registration is now open for the inaugural Generative AI in Libraries (GAIL) Conference.

This year's theme is Prompt or Perish: Navigating Generative AI in Libraries. GAIL is a free virtual conference aimed specifically at librarians that seeks to explore the use of generative artificial intelligence (AI) in libraries. It is also an opportunity for librarians to share their experiences with generative AI technologies and their applications in the library setting.

Scheduled to take place June 11, 12, and 13, 2024, from 1:00-4:00 pm EDT each day, GAIL aims to promote a deeper understanding of how generative AI can revolutionize library services like instruction, research support, collection management, access services, outreach and collaboration, while also addressing the challenges and ethical considerations this new technology brings to libraries. View more details and register on the conference website here: shsulibraryguides.org/genailibraries/registration.

FREE Full-day Rhode Island Genealogy Conference on May 18

Mon, 06 May 2024 18:19:49 GMT

A full-day, free genealogy conference on May 18th will be hosted by the Rhode Island Genealogical Society. Three recognized genealogy speakers, Drew Bartley, Michael Leclerc, CG, and Jenifer Kahn Bakkala, will present on this year's theme, "Writing and Publishing Family History." Attendees of all levels of experience will delight in the opportunity to spend the day with other genealogists, amateur and professionals.

Registration is highly recommended.

https://rigensoc.org/eventListings.php?nm=73

RILA State House event marks National Library Week

Sat, 13 Apr 2024 00:32:50 GMT

RILA's Library Advocacy Day press event was featured in the Rhode Island Current.

2024 Spring Membership Drive!

Mon, 08 Apr 2024 19:15:36 GMT

Win raffle prizes! RILA members, get someone new to sign up for RILA, and both of you will be entered into our Spring Membership Drive raffle for prizes! Simply have your new member fill out the "I was referred by" section of the online membership form, and you will be entered. One entry for each new member who signs up. Referring person must be a current RILA member. The Membership Drive will take place up until the first day of the RILA Annual Conference on May 22, 2024.

Rhode Island Library Association urges lawmakers to pass Ebook bills

Mon, 08 Apr 2024 18:08:54 GMT

(Providence, RI) The Rhode Island Library Association (RILA) has worked with local lawmakers this legislative session to introduce bills in the House and Senate regarding the fair licensing of library ebooks in the state of Rhode Island.

For many years, the publishing industry has been decimating public library budgets in Rhode Island and across the nation with high ebook prices and licenses that disappear over time.

“Most major publishers are currently charging libraries up to nine times or more the cost of ebooks and audiobooks than they are charging consumers," said Lisa Sallee, Assistant

Director of Ocean State Libraries. “The licensing terms of these ebooks mean they often expire after 12 or 24 months, or a certain arbitrary number of checkouts, which then requires our libraries to repurchase ebooks and audiobooks over and over again, often at the same high prices each time. It’s unsustainable.”

“House bill 7508 and Senate bill 2514 attempt to use state contract law and consumer protection law to put us on a fair playing field in the marketplace,” said Julie Holden, Membership Chair of RILA. “We stand with our neighbors in Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Vermont, who have introduced similar ebook bills this year, as have the states of Illinois, Tennessee, and Iowa.”

“Most libraries have little, if any, bargaining power and are rarely able to change the terms of the contracts offered to them by publishers. As a result, many libraries face financial and practical challenges in making ebooks available to their patrons,” said Kyle K. Courtney, an attorney and librarian working as Director of Copyright and Information Policy for Harvard University.

Over the past year, representatives from RILA have met with representatives from the Association of American Publishers, offering ideas and suggestions that would benefit both libraries and authors, but to date, nothing substantive has come from those conversations.

“We know how much Rhode Islanders use and love their public libraries, so this creates a big problem for us; we have limited budgets and we cannot purchase enough licenses to meet the demand of our library users. People rely on the library to provide reading material that they do not have the disposable income to obtain themselves,” said RILA President Beatrice Pulliam.

“Repurchasing library ebooks requires constant monitoring and analysis of the best way to meet patron demand with increasingly expensive short-term licenses. This leads to an additional cost - the cost of staff labor to review expired licenses weekly - diverting time and energy from other important services to library patrons,” said Stephen Spohn, Executive Director of Ocean State Libraries.

Limiting access to library ebooks disproportionately affects those with disabilities. Ebooks and digital audiobooks help Rhode Island citizens who have visual, motor, or learning impairments to enjoy books they could not otherwise. According to the CDC, up to 1 in 4 Americans have a physical or cognitive disability.

RILA thanks Representative Lauren Carson (Newport) and Senator Victoria Gu (Westerly, Charlestown, South Kingstown) for being strong advocates and for their efforts bringing attention to this long-standing issue.

The Rhode Island Library Association urges the General Assembly to pass the ebook bills this session.

The Rhode Island Library Association is a professional organization that serves its members through career development, education, networking partnerships and legislative action and seeks to inspire and promote excellence in library services, through training, innovation, and advocacy. RILA also supports libraries and library workers to meet the diverse needs of the populations they serve. More information is available at rilibraries.org

Ida D. McGhee Shares Behind-the-Scenes Memories of Co-Founder Dr. Donna L. Gilton

Mon, 08 Apr 2024 15:43:07 GMT

I first met Dr. Donna Gilton over 20 years ago when I was a librarian at Hartford (Connecticut) Public Library, attending a conference at the New Haven, Connecticut Public Library. I believe the all-day conference was on diversity in our local libraries. Donna was in attendance with Dr. Michael Havener, the then Dean of the University of Rhode Island Graduate School Library and Information Studies program. The main speaker was Dr. Carla Hayden, the current Librarian of Congress, who at that time was the CEO of Enoch Pratt Free Library in Baltimore, Maryland. While working on her Ph.D. at the University of Pittsburgh, not only did they room together, but Donna and Dr. Hayden became very close friends.

I saw Donna a few other times before relocating to Rhode Island at various library conferences. We were always cordial and she invariably had something humorous to share to make you laugh.

Upon retiring from HPL and moving to South County, near URI, I met with Dr. Havener to discuss the number of unrepresented students of color in the GSLIS program. I humored him by stating, “I guess they do not have any Black librarians in Rhode Island other than Dr. Gilton.” I asked him this question due to my attendance at a Rhode Island Library Association annual conference at Bryant University. I remember seeing only one librarian of color that spring day, Marlene Lopes, former special collections librarian at Rhode Island College, who became a member of CORI.

I am not sure what Dr. Havener said to Donna. She always used to tell me, “He instructed me to meet with you.” I recollect saying to her, “As a seasoned educator and a pioneering voice in the library world, and due to your immense expertise and passion for librarians, he selected the right professor to meet with me.” And not to mention her institutional and community knowledge. These words would always make her smile, that grin and smirk she would portray.

During our first meeting, she stated that Attorney Denise Dowdell, a former librarian, should be on board for future meetings as we discuss the under-representation of Black librarians in the state. Thus, the idea and discussion proved feasible to organize a group of librarians of color in RI. Therefore, Cornucopia of Rhode Island: A Library Community of Color (CORI) was established.

Dr. Havener, Dr. Gilton, Denise, and myself would meet several times a month at the home of Dr. Gilton and her mother, Mrs. Hattie Gilton, whom we decided would be ex-officio of our organization. Plus, Mother Hattie always prepared a full course meal, whether it was breakfast, lunch, or dinner, and we always sat at the formal dining room table and ate off fine China plates. No wonder it took forever to incorporate, we procrastinated just to continue with Mother Hattie’s sumptuous meals.

After months of meetings, research, discussions, and Denise’s design of the CORI logo, in September 2005 we had our inaugural program at URI’s University Club. An invitation to every RI librarian and library worker of color that Gilton and Havener could think of, including current and former URI GSLIS Prism Fellows, was disseminated. Librarians of color from neighboring Connecticut and Massachusetts were also invited, and many attended. Our featured speaker for the luncheon was Andrew P. Jackson (Sekou Molefi Baako), former executive director of the Queens Library's Langston Hughes Community Library & Cultural Center in New York. Andrew has returned to RI on several occasions as guest speaker for CORI as well as for RILA annual conferences.

CORI founders Gilton, Dowdell, McGhee, and Havener
at the first CORI program in September 2005

Since inception, CORI has presented at RILA’s annual conferences as well as established a yearly fall mini-conference. Guest speakers for both have included well known and prominent librarians throughout the country. From Dr. Hayden, who returned her honorarium from RILA and benefited it to CORI, with the stipulation that it be used for future CORI programs, to presidents of ALA, former ALA executive director Tracie Hall, and Jack Reed, Senior Senator of Rhode Island. Whenever we invited a notable speaker to Rhode Island to speak pro bono or at a lower speaker’s cost and they accepted our invitation, Donna and I would always be tickled pink.

Dr. Carla Hayden with three of CORI's founders Dowdell, Gilton, and McGhee

Without Dr. Gilton’s input and URI GSLIS support, there would be no CORI. In between writing her books and numerous articles, teaching, and playing the piano for her church choir, Donna was always present for CORI. We normally carpooled together or with other CORI members in our area of the woods to drive throughout Rhode Island for our Saturday morning meetings. I will forever cherish those drives and Donna’s funny stories. When Donna learned that she had cancer, her tenacity and good humor never quit. She preserved through it all without murmuring or negativity and always had a joke to share.

Rest in peace, my first librarian friend in Rhode Island. Your kind spirit and willingness to march on will always be remembered with a smile.

For additional information on CORI, visit https://rilibraries.org/cori

Submitted by,

Ida D. McGhee

Save the Date: RILINK Summer Conference featuring keynote Shannon McClintock Miller

Tue, 02 Apr 2024 18:52:42 GMT

Shannon McClintock Miller will be keynoting RILINK's summer conference on July 24th. Conference is from 8:00am to 3:30pm. Registration information coming soon!

URI GSLIS Annual Gathering on May 3 features the Library of the Year and Alumni of the Year awards

Tue, 02 Apr 2024 00:30:14 GMT

The Graduate School of Library and Information Studies is pleased to announce the winners of this year’s awards for Library of the Year and Alumni of the Year. The Library of the Year for 2024 is the Rhode Island State Archives in Providence, Rhode Island. Each year, GSLIS honors two alumni: one who graduated 10 or more years ago and another recent alumnus who graduated within the last 5-10 years. Our Alumna of the Year for 2024 is Stephanie Mills and our Recent Alumna of the Year for 2024 is Alyssa Taft. These awards will be presented at the GSLIS Annual Gathering, to be held May 3, 2024 at the URI Alumni Center in Kingston, RI. The Annual Gathering is an evening of professional camaraderie and celebration that will celebrate these award winners, along with our alumni, current students, and larger community, as well as a panel on Collaboration, comprised of Ashley Selima, RI State Archivist and Public Records Administrator, Stephanie Mills, Librarian at Park View Middle School, and Alyssa Taft, Teen Librarian at Cranston Public Library.

The Rhode Island State Archives is being recognized for its focus on serving the people and history of Rhode Island through in-person and virtual exhibits, collaborations with state and local agencies, and outreach to the people of Rhode Island. The RI State Archives engages in a wealth of collaborations, including with the New England Document Conservation Center to help preserve the RI Bill of Rights. They offer a variety of public programs, such as their Genealogy Open Houses, Map Nights, and a Parks & Recreation Panel offered in collaboration with RI Recreation and Parks Association, RI Department of Environmental Management, and the City of Providence. Continuing their efforts to broaden access to state historical collections, the RI State Archives has created several interactive stories through a partnership with Google Arts & Culture, including stories on RI parks and recreation, the Gaspee Raiders, and RI wild weather, among others. GSLIS selected the Rhode Island State Archives as Library of the Year for 2024 because of their commitment to public service through collaboration with state and local agencies, other partners, and the public. As State Archivist and Public Records Administrator Ashley Selima told URI Magazine, “Being a small part in helping people become more civically engaged is a really rewarding thing.”

Since graduating from URI GSLIS in 2007, Stephanie Mills has worked as the Librarian at Park View Middle School in Cranston, RI. Mills has been recognized for her collaborative work with teachers and other librarians. She has even collaborated with her students, seeking their input to help select books for an ARPA-funded grant from the RI Office of Library and Information Services in 2021. Among many other accomplishments, Mills was named School Librarian of the Year in 2020 by the School Librarians of Rhode Island. Cranston Public School Superintendent Jeannine Nota-Masse was quoted in the Cranston Herald as saying, “Stephanie is a wonderful example of a school librarian who has gone above and beyond to keep our students engaged in reading, in learning, and in utilizing our library’s many resources and supports. Our libraries are community hubs and Mills’ library at Park View Middle School certainly illustrates that important community dynamic.” This reflects Mills’ view of the library as “the hub, the place that brings together a community of readers,” as she explained to the URI Magazine. She described her collaborative teaching efforts in a blog post for Springshare in 2015, noting that she “work[ed] with different teams, many content areas and two grade levels on a daily basis.” Mills’ partnership with Alyssa Taft, the Recent Alumna of the Year, was featured in School Library Journal. URI GSLIS is proud of Stephanie Mills and all of her exemplary contributions to school librarianship and community building in Rhode Island.

Alyssa Taft graduated from URI in 2017 with both an MLIS and MA in English. Taft’s MLIS degree was completed with School Library Media certification, and she first worked as the library media specialist at Portsmouth Middle School before joining the Cranston Public Library teen services team in 2019. At Portsmouth Middle School, Taft collaborated with other teachers to put on an event in 2019 where students could chat live with authors through Skype. Teen Librarian, Taft runs a variety of programs and outreach events including Service Saturday when local teens can complete their community service requirements, the Cranston East High School Bring Your Own Book Club in partnership with OneCranston Health Equity Zone, and even Cupcake Wars. Taft has partnered with the Cranston Senior Center to have Service Saturday teens decorate Thanksgiving and Christmas cards that accompany holiday meals for seniors. Currently the Secretary of the RI Teen Book Award Committee, this year, Taft also stepped in as Co-Chair of the RILA Conference Committee, and has contributed to School Library Journal, Computers in Libraries, and Publisher’s Weekly. URI GSLIS is proud of Alyssa Taft and her commitment to serving the youth of Rhode Island, both as a school librarian and now as a public librarian.

GSLIS is proud of all our 2024 award winners and looks forward to celebrating with them on May 3 at our Annual Gathering. Registration is required.

Generative AI in Libraries Conference Call for Proposals

Tue, 05 Mar 2024 20:46:09 GMT

You are invited to submit a proposal for the inaugural Generative AI in Libraries (GAIL) virtual conference. This year's theme is Prompt or Perish: Navigating Generative AI in Libraries. GAIL is a virtual conference aimed specifically at librarians. This conference seeks to explore the use of generative artificial intelligence (AI) in libraries. It is also an opportunity for librarians to share their experiences with generative AI technologies and their applications in the library setting.

June 11-13, 2024. Registration required.

Use this form to register: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfMFXlrYqLM9ts_hJW8Nmz3O685dVpYU6EMOR02CgdD3Mre7A/viewform

National Baseball Poetry Festival

Mon, 04 Mar 2024 19:40:35 GMT

The National Baseball Poetry Festival celebrates the intersection of America's pastime and the power of words on May 3 and 4, 2024 in Worcester, MA.

May 3 and May 4, 2024, all day both days. Tickets for baseball games are optional.

Visit https://baseballpoetryfest.org for more info.

Rhode Island Genealogical Society - Funding Opportunities

Fri, 02 Feb 2024 20:34:59 GMT

The Rhode Island Genealogical Society welcomes applications for small amounts of funding in support of purchases, content, or preservation of records to those researching Rhode Island ancestors. Public or non-profit libraries within Rhode Island or non-profit organizations serving as repositories are welcome to apply for funding. Awards typically range from $300-$2000. All awards will require a final report within twelve months.

Please visit the RIGS Preservation Grants page, copy the following questions into an email and answer each one. Email should be sent to outreach@rigensoc.org. Applications are due annually on March 15 and awards will be announced at the RIGS Annual Meeting in May or June; letters of award/decline will follow.

Discover Warren's History on the Library Walls!

Fri, 02 Feb 2024 20:01:08 GMT

Get ready for a splash of history at the George Hail Free Library! Youth Services Librarian Michaela Hutchinson, Director Chris Matos, and local artist Mallory Angell have teamed up to create a historically inspired mural in the Youth Services room.

This isn't your ordinary mural—it's an adventure! Covering four walls, it'll be a treasure hunt of hidden objects, each with a story tied to Warren and the library. But here's the twist: it's a community creation! Warren residents will have the power to name the mural and dive into the artistic action by helping paint sections of it.

Mark your calendars for the "Community Painting Day" on Friday, February 23rd! We're calling on local students to join us in adding color to the mural under the guidance of Angell. Special thanks to the Warren Heritage Foundation, the Jay Barry Cultural Arts Committee, and the Friends of the Library for making this project possible.

Community Mural Painting Day is on February 23rd, 10 am - 12 pm. Registration will be required. Registration opens February 9th here: https://oslri.libcal.com/event/11983655

Book Lovers' Local Author Expo

Mon, 29 Jan 2024 20:25:51 GMT

Cumberland Public Library hosting annual Local Author Expo. Come meet and greet with 35+ New England authors - and learn more about their books or writing!

Saturday, February 24, 2024

1pm-4pm

No registration required. More info here: https://fb.me/e/1aof2ANU4

Vetted Genealogy & Research Speakers via the Rhode Island Historical Society

Fri, 17 Nov 2023 20:36:52 GMT

Did you know there is a connection between family history research and information and visual literacy? True! Genealogy research offers a gateway to asking better questions. Exploring genealogy research covers ACRL's six frameworks for information literacy, including creation as a process or research as an inquiry. It also inspires a love for local and state history to understand the context around an ancestor's life.

The Rhode Island Genealogical Society offers a list of vetted, quality in-person, virtual, and hybrid speakers and programming suggestions - so whip out that 2024 calendar and contact us at info@rigensoc.org!

Welcome our new Adult Services Librarian, Meredith Richards

Thu, 16 Nov 2023 16:08:57 GMT

Meredith earned her MLIS from Rutgers University in 2011. She was previously the Librarian at the International Tennis Hall of Fame, an Adult Services Librarian at the Pawtucket Public Library, and a Project Archivist for the Tennis Channel. Meredith lives in Rehoboth, MA with her husband and son, and in addition to her job at George Hail she also works at the Blanding (Rehoboth) Public Library. She just finished listening to the audiobook of The Forgotten Room by Karen White, Beatriz Williams, & Lauren Willig and is currently reading Don't Forget to Write by Sara Goodman Confino.

We Belong on the Page: Rhode Island Teens Fight Censorship and Erasure

Thu, 16 Nov 2023 15:13:55 GMT

Write Rhode Island and We Are ALL Readers are co-sponsoring "We Belong on the Page," an all-ages exhibit, designed to highlight the importance of books with BBIPOC and LGBTQ+ representation. Students are invited to create banned book cover redesigns that focus on issues of identity and representation, or other aspects of the banned book that make it important to them. You can learn more about "We Belong on the Page" at http://www.weareallreaders.com/webelongonthepage.html.

Submissions are being accepted from January 15, 2024 until March 21, 2024 at 5pm. The opening reception for the art exhibit will be on April 6, 2024 at the We Are ALL Readers festival held at North Kingstown High School.

http://www.weareallreaders.com/webelongonthepage.html

RILBA Committee Seeking New Members

Mon, 02 Oct 2023 22:18:34 GMT

The Rhode Island Latino Books Award (RILBA) Committee is seeking new members to serve a 2-year term beginning September 2023. Each year, the RILBA committee selects the nominees for grades kindergarten through 12th for the award. Rhode Island students are encouraged to read from the booklist and vote for their favorite book.

For more information, please visit: http://www.rilatinoarts.org/LatinoBooksMonth.html

Members must:

Be a Public Youth Services Librarian in Rhode Island, a School Librarian or Educator/Teacher.
Commit to read 5 to 10 books each month, for nine months, including chapter books, picture books, graphic novels, etc.
Have experience working with school-age children or teens.
Have an interest in children’s or teen literature, or both.
Starting in September 2023 and through May 2025, commit to attend virtual meetings on the first Monday of every month, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m.

About the Rhode Island Latino Books Award

The Rhode Island Latino Books Award is a program of Rhode Island Latino Arts (RILA). Now in its ninth year, RILBA promotes the love of reading among Latino young people through the celebration of Latino authors, illustrators, and books that highlight Latino culture and Latin American identity. Through this year-long celebration, RILA encourages librarians, teachers, educators and booksellers to promote books written by and for Latinos, and we encourage all Rhode Islanders to read books in both English and Spanish and written by Latino authors and illustrators.

Please feel free to contact Maria at mcotto@pawtucketlibrary.org with any questions.

Met School Student Intern Brings Back Museum Passes to North Providence

Wed, 21 Jun 2023 20:23:03 GMT

Patrons are thrilled with the return of Museum Passes at the North Providence Union Free Library. With the help and dedication of its Met School Intern, Jennifer Cortez, the library now has 16 passes for families to enjoy. As part of her end-of-year school exhibition, Ms. Cortez shared her process and progress with classmates, advisors, staff, and members of the public.

The library wished to provide its patrons with this much needed service. Following the pandemic, many businesses suffered losses and did away with the program or put them on hold. Timing worked in the library's favor, as staff thought carefully about how to acquire new passes and took time to find the funding.

Staff time also played a factor in the delayed return of museum passes. With staff turnover and the return of in-person programs, the time needed to call, email, follow up with, and research available institutional memberships was lacking. In stepped student intern Jennifer Cortez, from the Met School. Miss Cortez is a freshman at the Met School and wished to do her field study at the North Providence Union Free Library, as she is an avid reader and thrives in educational environments. Jennifer, along with Youth Services Coordinator Jenny Durant and Director Stefanie Blankenship, worked out a plan to bring passes back to the library. So far, 16 passes have been secured, with the hopes of acquiring 20. Miss Cortez also used this process as her exhibition project for school, which must show evidence of learning in many facets.

Patrons have responded enthusiastically to the return of the pass program, especially for the Audrain Automobile Museum, Mystic Seaport, and Capron Zoo. Though the library is still waiting on some of the guaranteed passes, the excitement is evident.

Reflections on the 2023 RILA Conference

Tue, 13 Jun 2023 18:23:55 GMT

Submitted by Robin Nyzio, Branch Librarian at William Hall Library, Cranston

It was great fun to be inside the Providence Public Library for the conference this year. With the parking lot only a few feet from the front door and all the beautiful inside spaces, I really enjoyed the whole experience -- especially all the tasty food.

But, back to the sessions I attended...

Rearranging Religion to Decolonize Dewey was presented by a Springfield, MA, librarian, Elizabeth McKinstry. This project focused on making the 200s represent more of the world religions instead of being so heavy on Christianity and Judaism. For example, instead of putting religions of East and Southeast Asian origin in the 290s, they are shifted to the 220s, thereby establishing them chronologically as being older than Judaism and Christianity.

You Don’t Need to be a Cybersecurity Expert to be Cybersecure, presented by PPL’s Beatrice Pulliam and OSL’s David Demick. Among the tips I took away from this session was that we need to use passphrases instead of passwords and that ‘length is strength’ when it comes to passwords. They also mentioned this website as a way to check your security: https://www.security.org/how-secure-is-my-password/

Championing the Library: Practical Tips for Handling Difficult Patron Interactions gave solid tips on things to say in response to questioning from patrons. Kit Grant, a crisis communications manager, along with EP Director Meredith Bonds-Harmon, offered role-plays that were very helpful. Here are a few of her tips:

When in doubt, be the library. When a person starts asking about the appropriateness of materials, don’t take it personally but have a general answer ready, such as: "Thanks so much for the great questions. We like to have a variety of resources available because the library is for everyone."
Do not match negative energy, voice, tone, or language. She encourages us to practice staying relaxed, calm, and polite in all situations, so we won’t get flustered by demanding patrons or pushy people.

Rack of Eye: Managing Implicit Bias in Collections at Steamship Historical Society. Astrid Drew is the archivist for the Steamship Historical Society of America in Warwick. She talked about her collection, which was very fascinating, and I encourage you to look at their website: https://shiphistory.org/. What Astrid and her team set out to do was to bring out more information about the people of color who built the ships and stayed below decks once they were underway, rather than only focusing on the engineers who designed the ships, the captains and crews, all of whom were, by and large, white.

First Amendment 101: Common Exceptions to Free Speech Protection Justin Silverman, Executive Director of the New England First Amendment Coalition, took us through what is and is not protected under the First Amendment. He cited Texas v. Johnson, the case having to do with burning the American flag, and gave us this great quote: "The Court noted, 'If there is a bedrock principle underlying the First Amendment, it is that the government may not prohibit the expression of an idea simply because society finds the idea itself offensive or disagreeable.' There is a lot of great information on this website and you can subscribe to get email updates specific to RI.

Rhode Island Library Association Presents Awards at Annual 2-day Conference

Fri, 02 Jun 2023 14:22:26 GMT

The Rhode Island Library Association (RILA) presented its yearly awards at its Annual Conference, which was held May 24 and 25 at the Providence Public Library. The theme for the conference was “Keep Calm and Read On.”

"This year’s award recipients are truly deserving of this honor,” said RILA President Beatrice Pulliam. “We were so fortunate to have each of our honorees present at our awards reception and be able to celebrate their achievements in front of their friends and family."

The 2023 RILA Award winners are:

Library Champion Award: Senator Hanna Gallo, District 27, Cranston and West Warwick.

Senator Gallo is one of the most active supporters of libraries in the General Assembly. She has been an important ally as RILA advocated for full funding of state grant-in-aid to Rhode Island’s public libraries. Her advocacy was instrumental in state aid increases including $900,000 in 2017, $200,000 in 2019 and finally achieving full funding with an additional $1.5 million in 2022.
For the past eleven years she has supported her local Cranston Public Library with legislative grants that have been used to support youth services programs across the CPL system.

“Senator Hanna Gallo has been a true friend and champion to our libraries and we look forward to working with her for years to come,” said Ed Garcia, director of the Cranston Public Library.

Outstanding Librarian Award: Chaichin Chen, Resource Sharing Coordinator, Office of Library and Information Services.

Chen retired from the Office of Library and Information Services in 2022 after 25 years of serving the state. She served as Resource Sharing and Network Services Coordinator. Chen’s long commitment to resource sharing culminated in the development of the regional Sharing Visions summit that began in 2020 and brought together state library agency staff and librarians from across New England. Her unfailingly pleasant demeanor and extensive knowledge made technical innovations that much easier for library staff.

“Chaichin leaves big shoes to fill at the Office of Library and Information Services, and will be much missed here and in the library community,” said Karen Mellor, Chief of Library Services for the state of Rhode Island.

Outstanding Library Paraprofessional Award: Maria Melvin, Human Resources Coordinator, Community Libraries of Providence.

Melvin operates a complex human resources department single-handedly, handling benefits, payroll, and maintaining accurate files for all staff. As the Human Resources Manager, Melvin is an integral part of the union negotiating committee, prepares job descriptions, participates in every interview, and onboards all new staff. When staff are out on medical or other leaves, Melvin is sure to send flowers and cards on behalf of the library.

“Despite her deep well of responsibilities, she also finds time to uplift the staff and to bring joy, and tons of fun, to every gathering. She loves the Community Libraries of Providence and is dedicated to the mission of the library. She is always willing to do the work to make change possible,” said Cheryl Space, director of the Community Libraries of Providence.

Meritorious Friend of the Library Award: Josephine Sassi, Friends of the West Warwick Public Library.

Sassi has been a tireless and dedicated supporter of the West Warwick Public Library for well over a decade. She currently supervises a group of volunteers who stock and run the “Book Nook”, the library store through which the Friends raise funds for library programming and services. She is responsible for the Friends’ gift basket raffles, which happen twice a year. The displays are so professionally done and elaborate that they draw people into the library who might not otherwise visit, and raise substantial and much-needed funds for the library.

“Her multiple contributions to the life of the West Warwick library are made in a manner that is utterly dependable but also utterly unassuming. Without her presence, the library would be a poorer place – literally as well as figuratively,” said Colin McCullough, director of the West Warwick Public Library.

Trustee of the Year Award: Ken Findlay, Board of Trustees, Exeter Public Library.

Findlay has worked tirelessly to improve the library’s standing and base of support. His experience as Assistant to the Town Council has been invaluable in guiding the library’s many projects and initiatives, from launching a new website to major building repairs. In addition, as Interdepartmental Project Manager/Institutional Programs and Services for the RI Department of Corrections, Ken serves on the State Library Board representing the interests of incarcerated persons. He exemplifies in every way the qualities that RILA has identified in a Trustee of the Year.

“As a result of Ken’s leadership, the library’s standing towards the community has comprehensively improved. Ken has expertly and patiently shepherded numerous items through the necessary processes to ensure their success,” said Tien Tran, director of the Exeter Public Library.

The Rhode Island Library Association is a professional organization that serves its members through career development, education, advocacy, networking partnerships, and legislative action. The core vision of RILA is to inspire and promote excellence in library services, through training, innovation, and advocacy.

In Memoriam: Dale Thompson

Wed, 12 Apr 2023 17:39:15 GMT

It is with great sadness that Providence Public Library (PPL) recognizes the passing of longtime Library Director Dale Thompson. She died in California surrounded by family on Saturday, March 25th, at the age of 79. Read full obituary.

Thompson retired from PPL in January 2014 after nearly 34 years with the Library – 25 as director. During her tenure, PPL achieved numerous successes and was continually recognized as a leading library, most notably becoming only the second urban library to receive the IMLS National Award for Library Service in 2001. Under Thompson’s direction, the Library implemented a variety of innovative community services and programs for youth, adults, and families, a number of which became national models and continue to evolve.

Rhode Island’s and Providence’s high rates of illiteracy were a primary concern for Thompson, who oversaw the creation of PPL’s Family Literacy program. This program was so successful that in 1998, it became the model for the Rhode Island Family Literacy Initiative (RIFLI), a statewide, interlibrary effort to provide literacy instruction to whole families. This vital, free, first-step program with no baseline requirements for admission has grown and continues today, celebrating its 25th anniversary this year.

In addition, under Thompson’s leadership, PPL thrived in its statewide role, spearheading technology initiatives such as the development of the Cooperating Libraries Automated Network (CLAN), now Ocean State Libraries, and serving as the state-designated Reference Resource Center (now AskRI), which also continues today.

As director of Rhode Island’s largest library system, Thompson embraced her role as a key contributor among the state’s library leadership. She served on several boards and committees and was a resolute advocate for funding and policies to enhance library services statewide. In 1998, she helped lead a successful campaign in the state General Assembly to enact a 25 percent municipal grant-in-aid funding program for public libraries and in 2003 again successfully lobbied the General Assembly to extend the 25 percent to endowment funds. In 2003, she initiated the current RI State Library Commission. Her service was not limited to Rhode Island. She served as Director-in-Residence, model library director, for the Urban Library Council.

During a time when urban libraries were called upon to assume more integral roles in their communities, Thompson worked tirelessly to increase the number of PPL employees, as well as its hours of operation, collections, and technological and fiscal resources. We honor her commitment to PPL and to libraries nationwide, and we are grateful for her legacy.

Rhode Island Genealogical Society Book Sale

Fri, 31 Mar 2023 17:24:41 GMT

Book Sale: Saturday, April 22, 2023 from 10 am to 2 pm

Come fill the missing pieces you need for your genealogical reference section or for your own personal research. These books include genealogies, histories, cemetery books and more covering Rhode Island, New England and some other areas of the country.

The sale is open to librarians, RIGS members and the general public. All proceeds support education and programming services offered by Rhode Island Genealogical Society.

More info about the Book Sale

URI GSLIS Annual Gathering on May 12 features the Library of the Year and Alumni of the Year awards

Mon, 27 Mar 2023 22:41:04 GMT

The Graduate School of Library and Information Studies is pleased to announce the winners of this year’s awards for Library of the Year and Alumni of the Year. The Library of the Year for 2023 is West Warwick Public Library in West Warwick, Rhode Island. Each year, GSLIS honors two alumni: one who graduated 10 or more years ago and another recent alumnus who graduated within the last 5-10 years. Our Alumna of the Year for 2023 is Maria Cotto and our Recent Alumna of the Year for 2023 is Tayla Cardillo. These awards will be presented at the GSLIS Annual Gathering, to be held May 12, 2023 at the Crowne Plaza hotel in Warwick, RI where we are celebrating our 60th Anniversary Jubilee. The Annual Gathering is an evening of professional camaraderie and celebration that will celebrate these award winners, along with our graduates, alumni, current students, and larger community.

West Warwick Public Library is being recognized for their contributions to public library service, patron access, accessibility of library materials and services, and efforts towards equity in library work and library services. The West Warwick Public Library was a finalist for the National Medal for Museum and Library Services in 2021 and 2022 (given by the Institute of Museum and Library Services). West Warwick Public Library Director Colin McCullough told the Cranston Herald in 2021, “Our patrons’ needs might be informational, educational or – given the last twelve months – simply fun and entertainment, but each request is met with the same care and consideration by a dedicated staff. This recognition on the part of IMLS is a well-deserved tribute to their creativity, commitment to inclusivity, and sense of community.” In 2022, the West Warwick Public Library went fine free, even erasing the debt of long overdue books. Head of Circulation Caitlin Mendoza told ABC 6 News that this was part of an effort “to bring our residents back to the library.” The West Warwick Public Library also reaches out to their community on social media, creating videos on TikTok and YouTube about hidden gems in the library, the library’s pet gecko, and library programs and services, posting about programs and services on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. GSLIS selected West Warwick Public Library as Library of the Year for 2023 because of their commitment to serving their diverse community with excellence, compassion, and friendliness.

After graduating from URI GSLIS in 2008, Maria Cotto worked as a Youth Services Librarian in Pawtucket Public Library, Central Falls Free Public Library, and the Knight Memorial Library in the Providence Community Library. In 2013, Cotto returned to the Pawtucket Public Library as Bilingual Children’s Librarian. She spearheaded efforts to develop the Sensory Friendly Inclusive Group. According to the Rhode Island Office of Library and Information Services website, “The Sensory Friendly Inclusive Group seeks to empower librarians to better serve individuals of all ages and backgrounds who are neurodiverse or on the autism spectrum and their families by expanding programming, outreach, partnerships, and resources that welcome all abilities.” Among many other accomplishments, Cotto has also served as Chair of the Rhode Island Latino Book Awards since 2014. URI GSLIS is proud of Maria Cotto and all of her exemplary contributions to the field of public librarianship, equitable library services, and the Rhode Island library community.

Tayla Cardillo graduated from GSLIS in 2019, only a few years ago. Since that time, she has worked as a Reference and Young Adult Services Librarian at the Coventry Public Library and now as the Branch Librarian at the Oak Lawn Branch of the Cranston Public Library. Cardillo hosts a podcast at the library, Down Time with Cranston Public Library, serves on the Rhode Island Teen Book Awards Committee, and as Co-Chair of the Intellectual Freedom Committee of the Rhode Island Library Association. Cardillo told the RILA Bulletin that “I think protecting people's intellectual freedom as well as their right to read and access information is one of the most important aspects of our jobs as library professionals.” URI GSLIS is proud of Tayla Cardillo and her commitment to intellectual freedom, youth services, and public librarianship in Rhode Island.

GSLIS is proud of all our 2023 award winners and looks forward to celebrating with them on May 12 at our Annual Gathering.

New Members Needed for the Sensory Friendly Inclusive Group

Thu, 23 Mar 2023 19:46:30 GMT

The Sensory Friendly Inclusive Group (formerly known as the RI Children’s Sensory Storytime Support Group) is looking for new members to join the committee. We are currently recruiting a secretary, co-chair and social media/blog webmaster. Join our team to learn how to connect with community agencies and other librarians whose mission it is to bring families together and create a sensory friendly environment that welcomes people of all abilities into our libraries.

To learn more about each position, please email mcotto@pawtucketlibrary.org or call 401-725-3714 x209

https://olis-ri.libguides.com/sensory

North Providence Union Free Library Investigated for Travel Channel Show "Kindred Spirits"

Tue, 07 Mar 2023 20:26:03 GMT

Have you ever visited the North Providence Union Free Library just to see the famous bust of Salvatore Mancini? The cavernous nature of the building paired with some spooky lore led the library to reach out to the experts to find some answers.

This past September, the North Providence Union Free Library was filmed for 4 nights for the Discovery Plus/Travel Channel show "Kindred Spirits." For decades, staff at the library have experienced unexplainable phenomena, such as someone calling their name when they are working alone--especially upstairs in the Reference Department--the elevator going up to the second floor by itself, and the apparition of a tall man approaching the desk only to look up and no one is there. Staff and residents alike always joked that it is the ghost of former Mayor Salvatore Mancini, as the building bears his name, his likeness in an enclosed case, and his funeral was held in the library for 3 days after his passing in 1994. However, library staff wanted to get down to the bottom of why new unexplainable events were occurring, such as clocks flying off shelves and walls in the Administration Offices, among other items that at times projectile themselves with no logical reason. Surely, former Mayor Mancini would not have been as vested in the inner workings of the library, but perhaps a former employee or trustee would.

Enter Amy Bruni and Adam Berry, two native Rhode Islanders, and stars of the show "Kindred Spirits." Amy and Adam ventured away from the traditional paranormal shows meant to instill fear and the scare factor to approach situations with a "care factor." With the help of archives and other tools, they research the history of locations to see what might be going on, and a library was the perfect spot, as we take care in curating our own history.

To give credit where credit is due, they pinpointed at least one cause of unexplained activity in the RI History Room: former library Trustee Herbert Hopkins for whom the room is named. Mr. Hopkins searched for a new library location in the 1970s as their former building was becoming cramped, exchanging lots of correspondence with then Mayor Mancini. Mr. Hopkins unfortunately passed away in 1978 before he saw the former skating rink become the bigger library he so passionately lobbied for (though he didn't know the skating rink was a possibility). When the bust of Mayor Mancini was moved into the RI History Room (Herbert E. Hopkins History Room) in July of 2020, activity started to pick up even more than before.

The library is grateful to "Kindred Spirits" for respecting the library's history and for confirming suspicions that Mr. Hopkins feels more attention should be given to himself. The staff continues to add pictures and memorabilia in the room to match or detract from the foreboding bust that might have stirred up some negative energy.

Click here to read an article about the show's visit in the Valley Breeze.

Upcoming P2PU Workshops

Mon, 27 Feb 2023 14:27:31 GMT

Peer 2 Peer University (P2PU) and the Rhode Island Library Association (RILA) welcome library staff to build a learning community with fellow librarians across the state. P2PU is developing workshops on in-demand topics for Rhode Island library staff. Join any of the 60-minute workshops on our calendar about these advanced facilitation techniques:

June 8, 2023 - Safe Spaces: Balancing feeling safe with feeling challenged (Click here to RSVP)
June 15, 2023 - Self Advocacy: How to look out for yourself when running a program (Click here to RSVP)

Since 2016, P2PU has supported RILA in running learning circles. These free, peer-led study groups can increase patron engagement and retention in online courses, and they provide an accessible and supportive environment for learners. Providence Public Library initially worked with ESOL students to run citizenship prep learning circles where adults at various levels of readiness prepared for the citizenship exam process, practiced English, and built relationships with their peers. In 2021, P2PU worked with Amrita S. Patel and Denise LaForce, former colleagues at Charlotte Mecklenburg Library (CML), to develop course materials on How to Talk about Race. Facilitators across the country have adapted this learning circle to navigate these difficult and necessary conversations in their communities. (Read more about this project at their blog!)

At the heart of the success of learning circles is the community of facilitators that make them happen. We’re grateful to the facilitators in the RILA library community who voiced their interest in these topics, and we look forward to continuing this work. Email us at thepeople@p2pu.org with any questions about how to join our peer learning community.

Teaming Up for a Sibert Smackdown! Two Librarians Unite to Bring a Love of Nonfiction to Middle School Students!

Sat, 04 Feb 2023 18:50:15 GMT

School library and public library collaborations are a fun way to bring two types of librarianship together within the community– and sometimes that community is a few cities over!

As a way to open students' eyes to the wonderful world of nonfiction, Park View Middle School librarian Steph Mills and 8th grade ELA teacher Rhonda Marro talked to Barrington Middle School librarian Melanie Roy and Garden City librarian Meredith Moore about their previous work on creating Mock Sibert award lesson plans. Throughout their conversations, Steph learned that Maria Cotto, a Pawtucket children’s librarian, served on the Sibert committee from 2019-2021.

In an effort to give students a first hand look at what it is like to serve on a national committee, Steph invited Maria to visit her classes to discuss the hard work and deliberations that go into choosing the winners and nominees. Maria talked about the criteria and the passion that librarians bring to the virtual meetings as well as the process for reading such a large quantity of books and eliminating titles in each round. This served as a basis for Steph and Rhonda to show them Melody Allen and Melissa Stewart’s modified mock Sibert approach in which students look at three criteria: delight, design, and documentation.

Throughout the month of February, students will be reading at least eight nonfiction titles and debating the merits of each with classmates. Each class will each determine their winner and nominees. As a culminating activity, students will watch a recording of the Youth Media Awards to see if Park View’s final list matches what the 2023 Sibert committee picked!

Rhode Island Library Association applauds Governor McKee for fully funding State Aid to Libraries

Mon, 30 Jan 2023 18:54:07 GMT

The Rhode Island Library Association (RILA) applauds Governor Dan McKee’s introduction of his Fiscal 2024 state budget which includes $484,000 in additional funding for libraries. For only the second time since 2009, the state budget will fully fund state aid to libraries at the level outlined in RI General Law 29-6-2. Existing state law specifies that the state contribute to each city and town an amount equal to 25% of municipal expenditures and 25% of expenditures from a library’s private endowment that supplements that expenditure.

This additional funding will positively impact public libraries in every city and town in Rhode Island. The budget also includes additional funding for AskRI, the Statewide Reference Resource Center, to fully support online learning, tutoring, and job upskilling support services for all Rhode Islanders.

"The Rhode Island Library Association is excited to see the Governor’s visible support of Rhode Island libraries by fully funding state aid to libraries. This action continues to build community resources, and we are gratified to see this commitment,"" said RILA President Rachael Juskuv.

RILA thanks Governor McKee for his support of libraries and his recognition of the role libraries play in supporting Rhode Islanders' need for access to information, technology, health and wellness resources, educational supports, and social connections. We thank the Governor for his strong leadership for including this funding in the budget.

RILA also thanks Representative David Morales (D7, Providence) and Representative Jackie Baginski (D17, Cranston) for being strong library advocates and their efforts along with the 40- plus sponsors of House Bill 5095 for bringing much needed attention to this long-standing funding issue.

"Public libraries are the heart of our communities and a public resource for all people, regardless of background or socioeconomic status," Representative Morales said. "Therefore, it is in all of our interests to ensure our libraries are well-funded and have the resources needed to remain strong and vibrant in the years ahead."

The Rhode Island Library Association urges the General Assembly to pass the FY24 budget with the inclusion of these important funds for our public libraries.

The RI Library Association is a professional organization that serves its members through career development, education, networking partnerships and legislative action and seeks to inspire and promote excellence in library services, through training, innovation, and advocacy. RILA also supports libraries and library workers to meet the diverse needs of the populations they serve.

Pascoag Public Library Nominated for IMLS National Medal

Mon, 21 Nov 2022 17:04:22 GMT

Inspired by their Sesquicentennial Soiree a year ago, Senator Jack Reed nominated Pascoag Public Library in Burrillville for the Institute of Museum & Library Services (IMLS) National Medal for Museum & Library Service. This is the nation's highest honor for museums & libraries that make significant & exceptional contributions to their communities.

Recipients will be announced in Spring 2023.

"It's a bit of a cliche, but in this case we feel it truly is an honor just to be considered for this award. Then, to be nominated by someone with the stature of Senator Reed, well, we're thrilled & grateful beyond measure." (quote: Board of Trustees President Kathan Lambert & Library Director Gretchen Hanley)

News From George Hail

Mon, 07 Nov 2022 17:51:19 GMT

Native American collection expanded

The George Hail Library is pleased to announce the release of a new special collection of books on the local history of the Pokanoket people. This collection was generously donated by the American Indian Study Committee. The circulating collection is available to all patrons with an Ocean State Library card in good standing. The American Indian Study Committee was appointed by the Warren Town Council in 2020
Read more on the Sowams Heritage Area website.

Welcome Michaela Hutchinson, Youth Services Librarian

We have two new wonderful staff members on our team at the George Hail Library. Jill C-D (left) who started in August and now Michaela Hutchinson (right), our new youth services librarian. Michaela recently graduated from Simmons College and this is her first professional position. Her last position was in Burlington, MA. We are excited to have both here at the George Hail Library.

The Importance of Policies: Promoting Our Principles in Practice

Fri, 12 Aug 2022 15:18:42 GMT

Part One: Wednesday, September 21st at 4 PM on Zoom
Part Two: Wednesday, October 12th at 4 PM at Cranston Public Library Central Library Meeting Room

Does talking about policies sound less exciting than watching paint dry? Would you rather organize your junk drawer than review your collection development practices? If so, it's time to reframe how you think about these important tools as embodiments of our professional principles. In the first session of this two-part series, we will share our experiences with current concerns about library resources and services and learn about best practices for library policies that support us in promoting intellectual freedom and social justice. The second session will be a hands-on workshop focused on writing or revising policies based on what we learned in the first session. By the end of the series, we should feel more confident in our abilities to protect access to the information that meets the needs of our communities.

Martin Garnar, PhD, is the director of the Amherst College Library and the editor of the 10th edition of the Intellectual Freedom Manual. His professional activities and speaking schedule reflect a profound inability to say no. A native New Yorker, Martin lives in western Massachusetts with his husband Mark and their impossibly cute miniature dachshunds.

Cornucopia of Rhode Island Call for Poster Proposals-Annual Mini Conference

Fri, 05 Aug 2022 15:25:09 GMT

On behalf of the Cornucopia of Rhode Island (CORI), we are delighted to invite current library school students and recent MLIS graduates to submit proposals for a poster presentation at the Cornucopia of Rhode Island annual mini conference on Thursday November 3, 2022 from 2:00-4:30pm. While not required, we encourage posters on the conference theme of ‘Recruitment and Retention of Librarians of Color’. We are also seeking posters on topics pertaining to diversity, equity, and inclusion in libraries.

For consideration, please submit a 150 word (maximum) abstract of your poster topic by September 9, 2022 to cori@rilibraries.org. Selected posters and presenters will be notified by September 26, 2022. Questions may be directed to the conference organizers at cori@rilibraries.org. See attached flyer for more information [pdf].

East Providence Public Library Hosts Drag Queen Story Hour

Tue, 02 Aug 2022 14:16:24 GMT

submitted by Pamela Schwieger, Youth Services Coordinator at East Providence Public Library

I am proud to report that, on Saturday, June 25, the East Providence Public Library held its first Drag Queen Story Hour (DQSH). Aside from the heat, it was a beautiful day filled with love and acceptance, fun, and lots of color! Our DQSH was part of the largest Pride Event the city of East Providence has ever had. The day began with an inaugural East Providence Pride Parade, followed by a flag raising and speakers at City Hall; and continuing with music, GIANT bubbles, crafts, and LGBTQIA+ informational tables on the lawn at Weaver Library. And, of course, the culmination of the day, what everyone was waiting for, was the Drag Queen Story Hour performed so fabulously by Haley Star.

Our Pride Event and DQSH turned out to be a wonderful celebration of diversity and inclusion, however, the weeks leading up to the event had their ups and downs. We had the pleasure of collaborating with East Providence’s new LGBTQIA+ Advisory Board and Mayor DaSilva who encouraged us to turn our DQSH program into a larger, all-afternoon, Pride event. We were also supported by local agencies like PFLAG Providence, EPHS Gender Sexuality Alliance (GSA), Newman Congregational Church, the Parasol Patrol, and more. Although we were given much positive feedback, not everyone was happy to hear about this event, and we also received phone calls and social media posts from members of the local and statewide community whose goal was to have the event canceled. Our performer, Haley Star, was also the victim of a great deal of hate speech. So much so that she took to her Facebook page to make a statement to defend the DQSH and invite others to come and support East Providence Pride Day.

Thank you to Haley Star for being the brave person that you are, and for so eloquently reminding us that: “Events like these are for the children who don’t quite feel 100% seen yet, and have family members strong enough and brave enough to bring them there to experience an afternoon of joy, laughter and love to allow them to develop into their own true self.” I hope the children who attended this program felt encouraged to be exactly who they are, and to accept the differences of others.

And, finally, thank you to Rashaa Al-Sasah, Emma Brelsford, Colin McCullough, and all the staff at West Warwick Public Library for hosting their DQSH in 2021. From the moment I left your incredibly positive and uplifting event last year, I knew that I needed to bring Drag Queen Story Hour to the families of East Providence.

Cranston Public Library Hires Elena Rios as the new full-time Youth Services Librarian

Wed, 27 Jul 2022 17:05:08 GMT

The Cranston Public Library is pleased to announce the hiring of Elena Rios as the new full-time Youth Services Librarian at the Central Library. A lifelong resident of Cranston, Rios began working at Cranston Public Library in 2017 while she was a student at Cranston East High School. During her time with CPL, she has worked as a Page, a Library Aide, and Part-time Youth Services Librarian. She recently graduated from Simmons College, completing both her bachelor's in Information Technology and Master of Library Science.

Little Free Pantry at North Providence Library

Fri, 15 Jul 2022 14:21:13 GMT

Inspired by a program at the 2022 RILA Conference, Assistant Circulation Manager Mary Albanese was on a mission to establish a food and necessities pantry at the library. "We get a lot of patrons, especially students after school, who are hungry or need an item that we don't regularly provide. Or they do not have money to buy a snack. We also have parents who come to programs looking for an item and it will save them money and a trip to the store. We want to provide as much as we can to our community."

With the understanding that the pantry would be patron-driven, semi-private, and anonymous, the library soon set up a spare book cart and soon the donations came flooding in. Red.Lined.Period soon caught news of the pantry and reached out to Library Director Stefanie Blankenship via their Instagram post. Now Red.Lined has partnered with the library to provide feminine and incontinence products for those in need. Their mission, "Fighting Menstrual Product Insecurity in Rhode Island," is now benefiting North Providence Residents.

Items brought to the pantry must be unopened, non-perishable, and not expired. Mary's hope is to acquire larger shelving as the pantry grows bigger and more visible in the community.

Rhode Island Library Association applauds House of Representatives for fully funding State Aid to Libraries

Fri, 17 Jun 2022 14:37:13 GMT

The Rhode Island Library Association (RILA) applauds the RI House of Representatives' passage of the Fiscal 2023 state budget which includes $1.4 million in additional funding for libraries. For the first time since 2009, this budget fully funds state aid to public libraries at the funding level outlined in RI General Law 29-6-2. This additional funding will positively impact public libraries in every city and town in Rhode Island. Also included in the $1.4 million is additional funding for the Statewide Reference Resource Center also known as AskRI to continue funding for online learning and tutoring services available to all Rhode Islanders.

“The Rhode Island Library Association applauds the House for its visible support of Rhode Island libraries by fully funding state aid to libraries. This action continues to build our communities resources and we are excited to see this commitment,” said RILA President Rachael Juskuv.

RILA thanks Speaker Joe Shekarchi for his support of libraries and his recognition of the role libraries play in supporting constituents’ needs for access to information, technology, health and wellness resources, educational supports, and social connections. We thank the Speaker for his strong leadership for including this additional funding in the budget.

RILA also thanks Representative David Morales (Providence) and Representative Jackie Baginski (Cranston) for being strong library advocates and their efforts along with the 40-plus sponsors of House bill 7916 for bringing much needed attention to this long standing funding issue.

During National Library Week in April, Representative Morales and fellow legislators highlighted the essential work performed by libraries during the pandemic and the importance of full state funding by visiting all nine Community Libraries of Providence. “It was gratifying to host Representative Morales and to share the impact these state resources will have on our community,” said CLPVD Director Cheryl Space.

The Rhode Island Library Association urges the RI Senate to pass the FY23 budget with the inclusion of these important funds for our public libraries.

June 2022 Spotlight: RILA Intellectual Freedom Committee

Sat, 11 Jun 2022 14:04:50 GMT

Welcome to the RILA Bulletin Spotlight Series, where we feature the important work of a different RILA or RI library section, committee, roundtable, initiative, or organization in each issue.

Questions or suggestions for this column? Please send an email to communications@rilibraries.org.

June 2022 Spotlight: RILA Intellectual Freedom Committee

For this issue, we asked Tayla Cardillo to tell us about her role as Co-Chair of the Intellectual Freedom Committee. Tayla is the Branch Librarian of the Oak Lawn Branch of the Cranston Public Libraries in Cranston, Rhode Island.

What is the mission or purpose of the Intellectual Freedom Committee?

To help libraries in their role as protectors of Intellectual Freedom and the First Amendment as well as inform the Rhode Island Library Community about issues of Intellectual Freedom.

When was the Intellectual Freedom Committee formed?

This January, the Committee was reactivated after a period of inactivity.

What made you personally interested in being involved with this committee?

I think protecting people's intellectual freedom as well as their right to read and access information is one of the most important aspects of our jobs as library professionals. Frequently, the stories of marginalized groups are the ones that get labeled as obscene or inappropriate for children, so it is important to make sure that those voices are not silenced by the white heteronormative majority. Part of the reason many of these groups, especially the LGBTQAI+ community, don't know their own history is because their voices were silenced in the past. That's what I want to try to work to stop.

What is this committee’s proudest achievement?

Since this committee is just getting restarted, I am proud of the work the committee has done in the short period of time we've been meeting to get this committee going again. With the help of the Communications Committee, SLRI, and the RILA Board, we created an Intellectual Freedom statement for RILA and put a page with resources to help the RI library committee learn more about Intellectual Freedom on the RILA website. I'm proud of what we accomplished in the first half of the year, and I'm excited to see what we'll do in the second half and beyond!

What ongoing challenges does this Committee face?

Our biggest ongoing challenge is figuring out the best way to support libraries and school districts who are facing book challenges. Do they need legal support, or support creating a solid collection development policy? Do they just want support from peers who understand what going through a challenge is like? These are the questions the committee has been grappling with since the beginning.

If money and time were not an issue, what is the Intellectual Freedom Committee’s number one wish list item to support its mission or purpose?

Creating a way for us to collect data about book challenges and other instances of censorship in RI and have people within the library community: 1) be aware that they can report censorship to us, and 2) feel safe and comfortable reporting to us.

What partnerships with other groups or individuals (inside or outside of RILA) have been most beneficial for this Committee to meet its goals or objectives?

Our partnership with the Communications Committee has been great because we did not have to reinvent the wheel when it came to getting information about Intellectual Freedom out there to people. They have a platform and they know how to use it and they were willing to share that platform with us so that we could get this information out there.

Is this Committee looking for new members, and how can those interested get involved?

Yes, we would be happy to have anyone interested in Intellectual Freedom to join us, and they can email ifcommittee@rilibraries.org to indicate their interest in joining the committee.

What book are you reading now that you’d like to promote?

I just finished Hey, Kiddo by Jarrett Krosoczka, which is a graphic memoir about his childhood being raised by his grandparents. The author’s mother was in and out of jail and rehab programs due to her drug addiction, and his father was absent from his life until he was a young adult. It was a great look into the effects of addiction on a family through the eyes of a child, and I think it will help a lot of kids who have complicated family situations feel seen.

Rhode Island Library Association Awards Librarians, Library Staff, and Library Advocates at Annual Conference

Fri, 10 Jun 2022 20:26:51 GMT

SMITHFIELD, RI - The Rhode Island Library Association (RILA) presented its annual awards at its Annual Conference, which was held May 25 and 26 at Bryant University in Smithfield. The theme for the conference was “Restore, Reconnect, Reflect.”

"This year’s award recipients represent a wide cross section of library staff and advocates,” said RILA President Rachael Juskuv. “We were so fortunate to be able to have this awards reception in person this year, and give the winners the recognition they richly deserve."

The 2022 RILA Award winners are:

Library Champion Award: Elyse Wasch, Former Deputy Chief of Staff and Legislative Director for Senator Jack Reed.

“Elyse worked tirelessly behind the scenes as an advocate for libraries in Rhode Island and around the country,” said Karen Mellor, Chief of Library Services of the Office of Library & Information Services. “Following the Senator’s lead as a champion of libraries, she developed an expertise in libraries and library legislation unrivaled by anyone on Capitol Hill and built broad bipartisan support for the Senator’s library agenda. During the pandemic she worked to secure funding for libraries in the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act and the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, resulting in over $2.3 million of federal funding to help Rhode Island libraries respond to and recover from the pandemic. We are so very grateful for her efforts - Elyse is indeed a true champion of libraries.”

Outstanding Librarian Award: Nancy Kellner, Youth Outreach Librarian, Rogers Free Library, Bristol.

“When COVID hit, the library did not have a director. Nancy stepped up to the plate as co-interim director. Being a director is already a tremendous amount of work, but being a director during a pandemic is even harder. She encouraged staff to call, email, or text whenever they needed something. She never complained, and never said no. Nancy is a wonderful leader,” said Kristin Amaral, a former employee at the Rogers Free Library.

Outstanding Library Paraprofessional Award: Bethany Mott, Head of Circulation, East Smithfield Public Library

“Ms. Mott has made significant contributions to library programming. She runs the monthly evening book group, hosts craft classes, and is responsible for the graphic design and printing of the monthly library newsletter. She has been instrumental in the planning and design of the library’s new Makerspace. Ms. Mott is an important and vital member of the library workforce,” said Catherine Lynn, president of the Friends of the East Smithfield Public Library.

Meritorious Friend of the Library Award: Catherine Murray, Friends of the Rogers Free Library, Bristol

“The latest project Catherine has contributed to is the launch of our affiliation with the Dolly Parton Imagination Library (DPIL),” said Insley Julier of Rogers Free Library. “Catherine generates marketing and promotion for DPIL, and her knowledge and understanding of graphic design and communications are only part of what she brings to the table. Her sense of humor always enlivens our meetings. We are thrilled that Ms. Murray has received this award.”

Meritorious Friends of the Library Award: The Friends of the Exeter Public Library

”Rhode Island’s newest library, the Exeter Public Library, which opened in September 2004, is the direct result of Exeter residents Helen Douglas, David Zannelli, and the Friends of the Exeter Public Library,” said Tien Tran, the library's director. “It is hard to overstate the amount of work that Helen, Dave, and the Friends put in through numerous programs and initiatives that played such an important role in the library’s creation. The Friends are creating an endowment with the Rhode Island Foundation to preserve and grow the funds that they have raised over the years. I am so moved and humbled by the comprehensiveness of their vision and support.”

Rhode Islanders Travel to Portland, OR for 2022 PLA Conference

Wed, 13 Apr 2022 23:22:07 GMT

submitted by Julie Holden, Cranston Public Library

It has been over 2 years since there was an in-person national library conference, and this year’s Public Library Association (PLA) conference drew a semi-large crowd of library workers from across the country. Although Portland, Oregon is pretty much one of the farthest conference spots away from Rhode Island, many library staff from the Ocean State were able to make the trip.

According to attendance estimates, over 4,000 people journeyed to the Oregon Convention Center, which was down from the 8,700 who attended the Nashville conference in 2020. Each attendee had to show proof of vaccination or a negative Covid-19 test, and masks were required while at all indoor conference events. PLA also provided a virtual conference option this year, with about 1,100 people taking advantage. “Travel Portland,” the local tourist agency, gave out free TriMet rail passes to all attendees, so that we could ride the light rail to and from all downtown locations and even the airport.

In keeping with past PLA conferences, the “Big Ideas” stage opened up early each morning with inspirational speakers: author and lawyer Brittany K. Barnett, and recent 40-game Jeopardy champion Amy Schneider. The conference opening speaker was the impressive Luvvie Ajayi Jones, author of Professional Troublemaker, who encouraged us to speak up and speak out. The closing session featured actor and author Kal Penn (of Harold & Kumar fame), who told us the hilarious tale of how he came to work in President Obama’s administration as Associate Director of the White House Office of Public Engagement.

The conference sessions were packed with new and interesting ideas from libraries across the country and included engaging sessions on the current topics we are all facing in our libraries: the first amendment; inclusion, diversity, equity, and access; censorship and intellectual freedom; and the digital future.

The exhibit hall featured aisles of library vendors, including everyone’s favorite prize supplier, Rhode Island Novelty! Lots of publishers were giving away both uncorrected proofs and published books to conference attendees, who then had to make the most difficult calculation facing a library employee: just how many free books can I actually fit in my suitcase to take home with me?

All in all, it was a nice return to in-person conferencing, and if you have never been to PLA, the next conference will take place a lot closer to home, in Columbus, Ohio, in 2024.

Library Journal Kline Award Event with staff from the Cranston Public Library.

The cherry blossoms were in full bloom in Portland - photo courtesy of Karen McGrath.

“Keep Portland Weird” - photo courtesy of Karen McGrath.

The Oregon Convention Center featured a giant cosmic swinging pendulum - a favorite meet-up spot of conference attendees. Photo courtesy of Karen McGrath.

West Warwick Named a Finalist for the National Medal for Museum and Library Service

Fri, 08 Apr 2022 19:53:11 GMT

For the second year in a row, the Institute of Museum and Library Services has named West Warwick Public Library as a finalist for their National Medal for Museum and Library Service. The National Medal is the nation’s highest honor given to museums and libraries that demonstrate excellence in service to their communities. Since 1996, the award has honored 176 institutions that demonstrated extraordinary and innovative approaches to public service. West Warwick is the only institution in the state to be a finalist and they are the first in Rhode Island to have been a finalist more than once in the history of the award.

Read the full press release at https://www.imls.gov/news/imls-names-finalists-2022-national-medal-museum-and-library-service.

Middle School Libraries Meet Virtually to Tour a 'Mindfulness Room'

Fri, 08 Apr 2022 17:20:46 GMT

On Tuesday, March 22, 2022, seven middle school librarians met virtually to discuss middle school library topics and see the new social emotional room at Burrillville Middle School. In attendance for the meeting were Stephanie Mills, Melanie Roy, Christina Ash, Jen Simoneau, Diane Lebrun, Lisa Girard and Jill Fernandes.

The social emotional room, funded through an OLIS ARPA grant, is a repurposed conference room with windows, located off the main library. It was established for the purpose of calming down students who are agitated, anxious, upset, or simply need to take quiet space somewhere. Diane Lebrun showed the room to the librarians and explained how sensory materials were added to the space with the help of the school psychologist, occupational therapist, and physical therapist. There is a diffuser with natural oils, fidget toys, a rocking egg-shaped chair, bean bag seating, a CD player with meditations, along with a variety of other things deemed helpful in mindfulness practices.

The team put together a binder filled with activities ranging from mindfulness eating (with mints) to coloring pages designed to lessen stress in students. The sixth grade teachers took on the task of introducing the room to the students and leading them through the activities in order for them to understand the purpose of the room. Diane explained the process of logging into the room through a google form, and then setting a timer for ten minutes. At the end of the time, students log out of the room giving feedback on how they feel. The room has been open for about a month and there are a handful of students who use the room on a regular basis, with more starting to take advantage, as well.

The meeting was very productive, and we discussed the need to meet more often on various middle school topics. Some of the topics we plan to meet on are new ways to collaborate with teachers, genrefying our collections, and updating our collection and reconsideration policies. Our group is open to any middle school librarian who wants to virtually discuss these timely topics. Our next meeting will be April 26th at 8:30am. Please email lebrund@bsd-ri.net for a link to the meeting.

Tiverton Public Library Forms Purr-fect Partnership with Local Cat Cafe

Wed, 06 Apr 2022 18:28:52 GMT

When Bajah’s Cat Cafe opened in Tiverton last year, the staff at Tiverton Public Library racked their brains about how they could justify a group visit to the new business…staff meeting at the cat cafe, anyone? Luckily, the cafe’s owner, Amanda Souza-Viera, contacted the library about hosting a book group at the cafe.

The business consists of a cafe area, serving fresh local coffee, baked goods, and cat-themed gift items, and Bajah’s Villas - a room where cats from local animal shelters live until they are adopted. Patrons can reserve time in the cat room to interact with the cats. Since opening in May 2021, almost a hundred cats have found homes after spending time with patrons at the cafe. Deb Estrella, Tiverton Library’s Adult Services Librarian, was excited about the idea of hosting a book group there – even more so when she learned the discussion would take place in the cat room!

The group meets once a month in Bajah’s Villas to discuss a different cat-themed book. The group alternates between fiction and nonfiction, and has even discussed middle-grade books. The library secures copies of the book to be discussed for patrons to pick up at the library or the cafe. At the beginning of the meeting, Amanda talks about the cats who are staying in the Villas that month. The program is free and open to the public, but guests are welcome to purchase a drink or treat while they participate in the group. And, should the conversation lag, there are always the cats.

"I think reading is very important, and I believe book groups are fun and beneficial,” says Amanda. “They bring a community together where individuals can learn and discuss something that matters to them. Having the meeting with cats definitely encourages this as well. Partnering with the Tiverton Library has been such a great experience! Deb has really grown the group and makes each meeting interesting with her discussion topics about the books. We have received lots of positive comments about how well Deb interacts and gets people engaged."

“This has been such a fun book group to organize and be a part of,” said Deb. “It has allowed us to meet and develop relationships with residents in the northern part of town as well as folks just over the line in Massachusetts. Some have even come from Connecticut. We are proud to support a new business in town…and you can’t beat an afternoon spent talking about books with a cup of tea surrounded by napping cats.” In April, the group will meet to discuss Murder Past Due by Miranda James.

Ask, Listen, Empower Virtual Book Club

Sat, 02 Apr 2022 12:00:00 GMT

From January through March 2022, the American Library Association hosted a virtual book club around its new publication Ask, Listen, Empower: Grounding Your Library Work in Community Engagement, edited by Mary Davis Fournier and Sarah Ostman (ALA Editions, 2021). Library workers across the country applied, and 100 were selected, to participate in a series of three virtual book club sessions. Each session focused on a different chapter from the book and offered a live conversation with the chapter's author(s) and smaller breakout discussions.

Several librarians from Rhode Island participated in the monthly book discussion. The following is a summary of the sessions by three of those participants.

Session 1: Partnering for Greater Impact

written by Lori DeCesare, Assistant Director at Jesse M. Smith Memorial Library

The first session of the series, held on January 12th, focused on the chapter titled “Partnering for Greater Impact,” written by Cindy Fesemyer. The session began with a conversation with Ms. Fesemyer moderated by Flo Trujillo.

Libraries are renowned for developing, sustaining, and leveraging community partnerships. The collaboration between the library and other community entities benefits all involved - offering expanded opportunities to provide programs, enhance services, and support the library’s mission. This collaboration is powerful - yielding collective achievements greater than those that could be achieved by an individual organization on its own, as a result of shared goal setting, pooled responsibilities, and combined efforts.

Fesemeyer noted that, before establishing a partnership, it is important to focus on your organization first. The Aspen Institute’s Action Guide for Re-Envisioning Your Public Library, Version 2.0 offers a SOAR assessment to explore the strengths, opportunities, aspirations, and results of your library.

An effective tool examined during the session was a Community Map, shown below, which aids in examining potential community partners. Identify the individuals and groups in your community that fall into each of these categories. Another suggestion was to take a walk and look around the community. Introduce yourself, and identify common goals and explore the possibility of a partnership over coffee. If you are both agreeable, move forward with an easy project to start (often an extension of something the library already does well). If successful, extend the partnership, ensuring that it continues to be beneficial to your library, but be willing to end the collaboration when it is time.

(Fournier and Ostman 39)

During the breakout session, participants were asked to discuss their community maps. The highlight of the discussion in my breakout group was a rural Vermont library who partnered with their local conservation group to offer a very successful workshop on chainsaw safety at the library!

This first of three sessions in the Ask, Listen, Empower Virtual Book Club encouraged us to explore beyond our traditional partnerships and become more innovative, allowing us to expand our reach of community-specific targeted programs and services and achieve more than we could alone.

Session 2: Ethical and Inclusive Community Engagement

written by Deb Estrella, Adult Services Librarian at Tiverton Public Library

The second session held on February 16th featured Ellen Knutson and Quanetta Batts, who wrote a chapter in Ask, Listen, Empower titled “Ethical and Inclusive Community Engagement.” The session was moderated by Miguel Ruiz.

The chapter describes a public involvement continuum developed by Vancouver Public Library in British Columbia, which ranges from simply giving information (where the library is centered and decides what the community needs and how best to meet those needs) to truly partnering and collaborating with another organization (where the community is centered and leads the planning). During the live conversation, Knutson reminded us that “the world is bigger than you” and that you can do more with others than you can alone. Batts highlighted the importance of approaching potential community partners without an agenda - to come to the table with only the intention to listen rather than to fix what you perceive as a problem. She described how she would go on a “listening tour” of the stakeholders in her area. Knutson also pointed out that these conversations should be happening all the time, not just when you have a project in mind - build the relationship before you need the relationship.

Throughout the chapter, the authors stress centering inclusion in libraries’ community engagement work. This requires an understanding of your own or your institution’s privilege and intersectionality and meeting community members - literally - where they are. The authors found the most success meeting potential partners in their homes and places of business, learning, or worship. The authors also reminded us to recognize our biases and make sure we are not approaching certain patrons as “problems” to be fixed, but rather people with unique perspectives and experience that can make our services stronger, more relevant, and more accessible to the population we’re trying to reach.

During the breakout session, each breakout group was presented with a hypothetical community need and challenged to brainstorm ideas for how to work with the community to meet that need. The activity illustrated for all of us how many minds can create greater opportunities than we could have imagined on our own.

Session 3: Community-Centered Programming - Tools and Techniques

written by Insley Julier, Adult Services Librarian at Rogers Free Library

Led by the chapter’s author Audrey Barbakoff and moderator Veronica Casnova, the third session of the ALA Ask, Listen, Empower book club on March 16th was grounded in the principle that library programs and service should be planned “by and with, rather than for or at, your community” (Fournier and Ostman 47). Barbaroff noted that libraries have the tendency to look at what they already have the capability to do and focus on solving people’s problems. But that lens puts too much emphasis on needs, with librarians acting as “saviors.” She argued that we need to move from a deficit-based approach to an asset-based model, where we approach programming and services with cultural humility and leverage the strength of community assets (organizations and individuals), who already have knowledge about the community served.

In her chapter, Barbakoff outlines a path to develop community-centered programming. Steps include developing specific goals about what the library intends to do; environmental scanning (doing background research, so as to not waste the time of the community assets during later interviews); asset mapping (creating visual maps or diagrams representing key players, relationships, and resources within a defined geographic area); and key stakeholder interviews. These interviews are used to identify partners/community experts and to pinpoint the areas in which the library should expand programs or resources. In addition, the interviews can ascertain the challenges or barriers to access for underrepresented or marginalized groups. Barbaroff noted that efforts should be made to maximize the benefit to these groups and minimize the burden placed upon them. For instance, if a program is aimed at single mothers, can childcare be provided to allow them to attend? Her primary thesis was that libraries should not aim to save, but instead focus on working with outside groups and individuals as partners and friends, while honoring their expertise.

The book club was a valuable experience, allowing participants to connect to other professionals across the country to learn more about how they are promoting community engagement in their libraries large and small.

RILA Statement on the Censorship of Information and Diversity Education

Fri, 01 Apr 2022 15:12:13 GMT

In accordance with the American Library Association (ALA) statement issued on August 18, 2021, the Rhode Island Library Association is committed to upholding our core values, which include equitable access to knowledge, social justice, and intellectual freedom. As members of a profession committed to free and equitable access to information and the pursuit of truth, we stand firm in opposing any effort to suppress knowledge, to label “controversial” views, or dictate what is orthodox in history, politics, or belief. As such, RILA strongly opposes House Bill 7539, introduced by Representative Patricia Morgan of Coventry, Warwick, and West Warwick. This legislation, as proposed, pretends to protect civil rights in education, but in reality seeks to erase history, ignore science, and silence Black, Indigenous, and other People of Color, as well as the LGBT community.

Efforts, such as House Bill 7539, to censor any consideration or discussion of racism, slavery, Black American history, Indigenous history, and related issues and concerns in our schools, colleges, and universities pose a real and present threat to libraries’ ability to fulfill their role as trusted community institutions that provide factual and accurate information that reflects the breadth of the American experience about these topics.

The consequences of this bill would impact student personal and academic development because it:

Fact 1: Forces librarians to go against the American Library Association Core Values of the Freedom to Read by purging collections of books that share the authentic experiences of human beings who happen to be people of color or LGBT people.
Fact 2: Ignores the research that shows students will enjoy reading more and increase their reading comprehension skills when they have choice in what they read.
Fact 3: Disregards the fact that the demographics of public school students is rapidly changing so that the minorities, especially hispanic students, are becoming the majority. Students should have the opportunity to see themselves reflected in what they read as well as read stories of different cultures and people as part of their personal, social, and educational development.
Fact 4: Forces teachers to ignore white supremacy and the well-documented history of violence and discrimination against black, indigenous, and other people of color.
Fact 5: Prevents teachers from creating a safe learning environment for all students where they are free to express and explore their own identities.
Fact 6: Disallows teachers to teach students media literacy skills such as how to identify bias, propaganda, and fact vs. opinion, essential skills in today’s world where misinformation and disinformation in news media and social media content is rampant and threatening our democracy.
Fact: 7: Fails to comprehend that national and state content area standards, curriculum, and textbooks used for instruction are district responsibilities and unfairly targets teachers for punishment.

A commitment to intellectual freedom and social justice requires that libraries not only protect the truth from suppression, but also prevent its distortion. We oppose any legislative proposal or local initiative intended to ban instruction, consideration, or discussion about the role of racism in the history of the United States or how systemic racism manifests itself in our schools, workplaces, and government agencies.

RILA pledges to join with library workers and libraries to oppose any proposal to censor information resources, curricula, or programs addressing racial injustice, Black American history, indigenous history, and diversity education. Further, we commit to supporting libraries, library workers, schools, colleges, and universities facing these challenges and developing tools that will prepare library workers to defend their collections, counter falsehoods, and engage their communities in important conversations about racial injustice and empowering everyone to fully participate in our democratic society.

Questions about RILA’s position on this and related issues may be directed to communications@rilibraries.org.

For more resources and support for Intellectual Freedom please visit the homepage of the RILA Intellectual Freedom Committee at https://rilibraries.org/intellectual-freedom.

April 2022 Spotlight: New England Library Association (NELA)

Tue, 29 Mar 2022 20:36:53 GMT

Welcome to the RILA Bulletin Spotlight Series, where we feature the important work of a different RILA or RI library section, committee, roundtable, initiative, or organization in each issue.

Questions or suggestions for this column? Please send an email to communications@rilibraries.org.

April 2022 Spotlight: New England Library Association (NELA)

For this issue, we asked Kelly Parlin to tell us about her role as RILA Representative to NELA. Kelly is a Teen Librarian at Rochambeau Library in Providence, Rhode Island.

What is the mission or purpose of NELA?

The mission of the New England Library Association is to provide educational and leadership opportunities for library staff in support of improved library services for the people of New England. To that end, the association (1) engages regionally in important discussions in the library profession, (2) encourages the exchange of ideas through a variety of formal and informal events and (3) collaborates regionally and nationally with allied organizations. NELA is a chapter of the American Library Association.

When was NELA formed?

Officially chartered in 1963, the New England Library Association is a regional organization whose membership represents a wide range of library-related interests. Its objectives are to initiate, plan, and support regional activities; to encourage the exchange of ideas; and to cooperate with regional and national agencies having related interests.

What made you personally interested in being involved with this program?

Having attended the NELA-sponsored New England Library Leadership Symposium (NELLS) in 2019, I knew I wanted to further my leadership skills by getting more involved in the big picture of libraries. I was excited to participate in the behind-the-scenes efforts of RILA and NELA, as well as network with library professionals across the region. I also looked forward to visiting other libraries across New England; although, sadly the pandemic prevented me from enjoying this aspect of the position. Hopefully the next representative will get to travel to beautiful libraries throughout New England!

What is NELA’s proudest achievement?

In my opinion, I think NELA has done great work in providing career development and leadership training opportunities. My NELLS experience in 2019 was a highlight of my career, and I highly recommend it to anyone who is interested! I describe NELLS as a summer camp/therapy retreat for librarians who not only want to better themselves, but also their individual institutions. I made powerful connections with the other participants, and I’m excited to run into them at future conferences! I’m glad NELLS exists, and I hope to participate in NELLS II when I’m qualified.

What ongoing challenges does this program face?

NELA is composed of volunteers, so it’s a challenge to recruit new board members due to the time commitment and effort involved. That said, it can be a worthwhile investment to build skills, make connections, and add to your resume.

If money and time were not an issue, what is NELA’s number one wishlist item to support its mission or purpose?

I wasn’t sure how to answer this question, but when I asked other board members what they think, one said that being able to expand the NELLS leadership program so it can be for anyone (rather than having certain year requirements) would be ideal. I also believe that without the constraints of time or money, NELA could execute more grants on a larger scale due to its ideal positioning as a regional organization.

What partnerships with other groups or individuals (inside or outside of RILA) have been most beneficial for NELA to meet its goals or objectives?

NELA has many committees and also works directly with the state library organizations of Connecticut, Massachusetts, Maine, Vermont, and New Hampshire. This has been very beneficial in leveraging grant opportunities, comparing statistics, keeping informed of happenings in the region, and connecting professionals across state boundaries.

Is NELA looking for new members, and how can those interested get involved?

NELA is currently recruiting a vice president, a member-at-large, and a secretary for the Executive Board. There are also openings on the Conference, Educational Assistance, Membership, and Public Relations Committees. For sections, the Information Technology Section (ITS) is accepting new members including a member-at-large position, and the Academic Librarians Section (ALS) needs a new chair. Interested parties may contact Faithe Miller Lakowicz, the Volunteer Coordinator, at volunteer@nelib.org. Alternatively, they may fill out the 'Get Involved' form on the NELA website.

What book are you reading now that you’d like to promote?

I recently finished the middle grade graphic novel Snapdragon by Kat Leyh, and I loved it! The story content was wonderful, the plot easy to follow, and the art so expressive that it perfectly captured the characters' thoughts and feelings. I highly recommend it!

February 2022 Spotlight: RILA Financial Literacy Roundtable

Sat, 05 Feb 2022 16:54:03 GMT

Welcome to the RILA Bulletin Spotlight Series, where we feature the important work of a different RILA or RI library section, committee, roundtable, initiative, or organization in each issue.

Questions or suggestions for this column? Please send an email to communications@rilibraries.org.

February 2022 Spotlight: RILA Financial Literacy Roundtable

In honor of 2022’s Money Smart Week (April 9-16), we asked RILA Financial Literacy Roundtable (FLRT) Chair Jen Linton to take the spotlight for this issue. Jen is a Reference Librarian at Warwick Public Library.

What is the mission or purpose of the RILA Financial Literacy Roundtable (FLRT)?

To support and promote financial literacy programs at libraries across the state.

What made you personally interested in being involved with this program?

I'm a longtime fan of personal finance books. I still have my dog-eared copy of Suze Orman's The Road to Wealth, which was the first book that talked about money in a way that made sense to me. When the opportunity to join FLRT arose, it was an easy decision. It's been great to connect with librarians around the state. My hope is to collaborate and find new ways to spread information to patrons and empower them to make informed choices about their finances.

What is the FLRT’s proudest achievement?

FLRT members recorded a Rhody Radio show that featured our favorite Financial Literacy books. The process was more fun than I expected, and I added books to my own reading list.

What ongoing challenges does this program face?

Finances are awkward to talk about. Personally, I've noticed that patrons tend to check out financial books but don't attend programs. I would love to find ways to bridge that gap, or at least find more passive programming opportunities.

If money and time were not an issue, what is the FLRT’s number one wishlist item to support its mission or purpose?

Oh, wow! I've been keeping an eye on the new RI financial literacy standards for students. I love the idea, and my dream would be for all ages to have access to content that will help them gain confidence with their money. Consistent, quality programming for all! (A librarian can dream.)

What partnerships with other groups or individuals (inside or outside of RILA) have been most beneficial for the FLRT to meet its goals or objectives?

Money Smart Week (created by the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago) is a free annual event that can be promoted by all libraries. A variety of programs are offered for all ages, and marketing materials are available to download. It's a quick and easy way to offer financial education to patrons. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau is also a huge asset when it comes to free materials to give to patrons. Publications can be ordered online covering a number of topics.

Is the FLRT looking for new members, and how can those interested get involved?

Absolutely! If you're interested in all things financial literacy, send an email to flrt@rilibraries.org.

What book are you reading now that you’d like to promote?

Currently reading a NetGalley copy of Hello, Molly! by Molly Shannon, which has been a surprise. I was expecting an upbeat, behind-the-scenes look at SNL, but so far it has been a candid and heartbreaking look at her upbringing. Hard to put down!

Thinking Outside the Box with Breakout Boxes

Sat, 05 Feb 2022 16:09:15 GMT

written by Alicia Vaandering, Assistant Professor and Student Success Librarian at University of Rhode Island

Library orientations and other introductions to library services feeling stale? Breakout boxes can help gamify traditional library orientations and provide engaging and effective introductions to collections and services for new library users. Similar to escape rooms, breakout boxes require participants to work as a group to solve a series of clues in order to win the game. In September 2021, the URI Libraries piloted a new breakout box game, A Rhody the Ram Breakout Adventure, for incoming first-year, transfer, and international students.

Beginning in Spring 2020, librarians at the URI Libraries began to prepare for the upcoming fall orientation week (O-Week) scheduled for early September at the University of Rhode Island. Our goal was to create an engaging game that would require student participants to collaborate together to use library resources and identify important library services. As Student Success Librarian, I spearheaded this effort and utilized breakout boxes purchased from breakout.edu to design a new game: A Rhody the Ram Breakout Adventure. In this game, participants were given a scenario in which Rhody the Ram, the URI mascot, was lost in the library and needed help answering a series of clues to help him find his way out of the URI Libraries. To solve the clues, participants had to navigate the library website, use the library catalog to find books, and identify library services and collections in order to open a series of locks and win the game.

Library orientation is optional at the University of Rhode Island, and over 50 students chose to attend one of the eight sessions of A Rhody the Ram Breakout Adventure from the wide range of orientation activities offered as part of O-Week. While many students signed up individually, hoping to learn more about the library and meet other new students; a small number signed up with partners or as a small group. Many students celebrated their win by enjoying the candy from their unlocked boxes, taking pictures with provided photo props, asking follow-up questions about the library, and exchanging contact information with the new friends they met while playing the game.

While A Rhody the Ram Breakout Adventure was designed as a library orientation for college students, the use of breakout boxes offers promising potential for library orientations and programming to other library users in and outside of the classroom. Clues can easily be changed and scaled to meet the needs of diverse users who have varying levels of knowledge about library collections and services. The game encourages participants to work through their clues as a group, which allows the supervising librarian to run multiple games simultaneously. Finally, by piggybacking on the success and popularity of escape rooms, breakout boxes provide a unique balance in which participants learn more about the library without feeling like they are attending an instruction session.

Healthy Families at the Cranston Public Library

Sat, 05 Feb 2022 15:22:15 GMT

The Cranston Public Library (CPL) has recently received a $29,500 grant from the Network of the National Library of Medicine, Region 7. With this grant, CPL has launched the "Healthy Families" Initiative, which aims to connect residents with factual and timely health information, with a specific focus on households where more than one language is spoken.

Through programming and services, Healthy Families aims to engage with members of the community around current health topics and help library patrons of all ages find up-to-date, accurate information regarding healthy living as well as disease management and prevention. The initiative will empower families through carefully curated materials and increase access to dependable library and local community resources.

“Our goal is to encourage library patrons to recognize the library as a confidential place for free health information in English and other languages,” said Carla Jaggi, project coordinator for the grant. “We currently have a Healthy Families Kiosk at the Central Library with printed material on multiple topics in both English and Spanish, and plan to add a touch-screen, interactive element in the near future.”

“The Cranston Public Library staff has been specially trained to direct patrons to multilingual, multicultural health resources,” said Julie Holden, Assistant Library Director. “Our partnerships with the OneCranston Health Equity Zone (HEZ) and the Cranston Senior Enrichment Center ensure that we are bringing the best information to the community.”

“In addition to library resources, we will be presenting several in-person and virtual programs on a wide range of health topics from area experts,” said Zachary Berger, Adult Services Librarian. “This is a continuation of health-related programming that we began during the height of the pandemic, and we are excited to use this grant funding to continue our efforts.”

This project is funded by the National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, under Cooperative Agreement Number UG4LM012347 with the University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester.

RILA Self-Nomination Form Now Available

Thu, 27 Jan 2022 20:40:51 GMT

Each election year, RILA members may self-nominate for open positions on the RILA Executive Board. This year, we have 3 open board seats:

Member at Large (2 year term)
New England Library Association Representative (2 year term)
American Library Association Councilor (3 year term)

The 2022 Nominating Committee, chaired by the immediate past president, has put forth a slate of candidates to fill these roles; however, any RILA member in good standing can also self-nominate in accordance with the RILA by-laws, which state:

Those members interested in nominating themselves for any positions on the Executive Board, should complete a Right of Petition at least 90 days before the annual business meeting.The petition must have 20 signatures of members of the Association supporting the person for the nomination. This would allow the name to be included in the Nominating Committee’s presentation of names to the Executive Board.

If you wish to self-nominate, please complete the RILA Executive Board Self-Nomination Form by February 24, 2022. Questions? Please email Julie Holden, Chair of the Nominating Committee, at julieholden@cranstonlibrary.org.

"We are ALL Readers" Celebration of Books Looking for Volunteers

Sat, 22 Jan 2022 15:22:25 GMT

We are ALL Readers is an innovative opportunity for children of the West Bay/South County region and their families to mingle with authors of acclaimed literature, engage in story walks and creative programs about literature, hear and read stories together, make their own books, and more. This week-long celebration of diverse children’s literature is a collaborative project of librarians, authors, and educators from the West Bay region and across Rhode Island, also including authors from nearby states.

All children deserve the opportunity to see themselves reflected in literature. All children also deserve the opportunity to travel into different life experiences, times, and cultures through the pages of a book. The goal of We are ALL Readers is to create an event that celebrates windows and mirrors in children’s books, spurs the imagination of young readers, and gives children the opportunity to engage with great literature and build authentic connections with authors.

Reading is critical to kids’ academic growth, but it is also important for social and emotional development. Researchers have found that reading fiction actually increases the reader’s capacity to understand what other people are thinking and feeling. Reading books written from a diversity of lived experiences helps kids build empathy and communication skills for the 21st century. In this recent period of COVID-19, when so many children have lived in isolation from their peers and their teachers, the social-emotional development has been particularly and dramatically affected.

This extensive group of collaborators has come together to plan a week-long celebration of diverse children’s literature across the West Bay for the first week of April. During the week we will have smaller events, culminating in a celebratory book festival on April 9, 2022.

In partnership with local public and school libraries and other community organizations, they are planning to host:

Storywalks in East Greenwich, North Kingstown, Kingston, West Warwick, and Exeter featuring a diversity of picture book stories with outdoor installations of picture book pages along a walking path, so that children, families, and caregivers can explore the book and the outdoors together.
Free virtual author visits for local elementary schools on April 8th. Authors will provide 20-minute zoom storytimes and Q&A with students at local schools.
Bookmaking and comics workshops for kids and poetry writing workshops for teens, hosted by local teaching artists.
A book festival on April 9th, featuring a diverse lineup of award-winning children’s book authors and illustrators who will speak and read from their work, interact with children, and sign books.
A free book for each child attending and bringing a stamped event passport to the event on April 9th. Children will be able to collect stamps at all of the planned events and storywalks.

The planners are currently seeking volunteers and authors/illustrators willing to donate their time. To volunteer, please contact Jeanette Bradley at jeanette@jeanettebradley.com.

Patricia Redfearn Honored by House Resolution

Wed, 19 Jan 2022 22:49:26 GMT

The Rhode Island House of Representatives honored Patricia Redfearn on her retirement after 18 years as director of the George Hail Free Library in Warren, RI. Read the full House Resolution H 7039 online.

You can read more about Patricia's career at George Hail via EastBayRI at this URL:

https://www.eastbayri.com/stories/redfearn-retires-after-18-years-at-george-hail-library,95328

2022 RILA Conference: Save the Date & Call for Proposals

Tue, 11 Jan 2022 14:26:20 GMT

Save the Date! The Rhode Island Library Association 2022 Annual Conference will be held on May 25 - 26, 2022, at Bryant University in Smithfield, RI. The youth & school library track will be on Thursday, May 26, 2022.

The conference theme is Restore Reconnect Reflect. The Conference Committee hopes that we will be able to get together in person for a restorative event that allows us to reconnect with each other and with the fundamentals of the library profession while reflecting on library services during trying times. The Conference Committee is monitoring the situation with the pandemic and will be prepared to move to a virtual conference should the necessity arise.

The Call for Proposals is now open and accepting your submissions. The committee strives to create a vibrant conference that will leave attendees invigorated and inspired. As part of this year's theme Restore Reconnect Reflect, we are looking for proposals that address core library services and highlight our fundamental library values including information access, intellectual freedom and censorship, building community, and equity, diversity and inclusion. Your proposal does not need to fit the theme to be considered for inclusion in the conference.

Please submit your proposals by Sunday, February 6, 2022, at the 2022 RILA Annual Conference Call for Proposals form. You will also find a link for a Google Doc with all required questions to help you more easily work on proposals before submission. We look forward to reading your proposals!

For any questions, please contact the conference committee at conference@rilibraries.org.

December 2021 Spotlight: The RILA Mentorship Program

Mon, 29 Nov 2021 18:52:38 GMT

Welcome to the RILA Bulletin Spotlight Series, where we feature the important work of a different RILA or RI library section, committee, roundtable, initiative, or organization in each issue.

Questions or suggestions for this column? Please send an email to communications@rilibraries.org.

December 2021 Spotlight: The RILA Mentorship Program

This month, we talked to RILA Mentorship Program Co-Chairs Kieran Ayton and Dorothy Swain. Kieran is the Emerging Technologies Librarian at RI College. Dorothy is the Director at the Greenville Public Library.

With thanks to Aaron Coutu, Assistant Director/Technology Coordinator
at the Cumberland Public Library, for making the RILA Mentorship logo.

What is the mission or purpose of the RILA Mentorship Program?

The goal of the RILA Mentorship Program is to provide encouragement, support, and guidance to early and mid-career library staff to promote their professional development and growth.

What made you personally interested in being involved with this program?

Kieran was RILA President and the formation of a mentorship program was a goal that was identified by the strategic planning consultants with whom the RILA Executive Board worked. Dorothy was identified as a contact due to her leadership work in NELLS (New England Library Leadership Symposium).

When was this program formed, and what was the catalyst for forming it?

Dorothy and Kieran started the RILA Mentorship Program in 2019, based on the RILA 5-year strategic plan that was launched in 2018.

What is the Mentorship Program’s proudest achievement?

This program was developed at the request of RILA members as a benefit to the library community. We are proud to have been able to organize this program from the ground up by partnering mentors and mentees from all library types with similar interests and professional goals.

What ongoing challenges does this program face?

The RILA Mentorship Program was originally intended as a face-to-face program. We had to change the program format due to COVID-19 and rely on virtual meetings and trainings.

If money and time were not an issue, what is the Mentorship Program’s number one wish list item to support its mission or purpose?

This is a free program available to all RILA members with low overhead costs. The major challenge has been for program participants to meet in-person due to COVID-19 restrictions. Another challenge has been to recruit new mentors and mentees to participate.

What partnerships with other groups or individuals (inside or outside of RILA) have been most beneficial for the Mentorship Program to meet its goals or objectives?

MentorRI provided an initial training and framework for the RILA Mentorship Program to use for its launch. Currently, we are working with Valerie Karno (Director of the University of Rhode Island Graduate School of Library and Information Studies) and Mary MacDonald (URI Library liaison to GSLIS) to form a partnership to pull in library school students as RILA mentees.

Is the Mentorship Program looking for new members, and how can those interested get involved?

Yes! The program is currently accepting applications for both mentors and mentees to apply for the 2022 calendar year cycle. You must be a current RILA member to join. Applications are available here: https://rilibraries.org/mentorship

What book are you reading now that you’d like to promote?

Dorothy’s favorite book is Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen because it has a strong female protagonist and has a romantic storyline.

Kieran recently finished an early Agatha Christie mystery called Peril at End House featuring Hercule Poirot, the Belgian detective. It was a fun bedtime read.

Senator Reed Visits North Providence Any Place Office Space

Mon, 18 Oct 2021 14:04:15 GMT

Senator Jack Reed visited the North Providence Union Free Library on October 14, 2021, to get an in-depth look at their Library of Rhode Island (LORI) Grant project, Any Place Office Space. Using grant funds, the library created “at home” offices that include a laptop, mobile hotspot, and a portable printer, and will be loaned for a 3-month period. Senator Reed was intrigued by the project which provides technology and digital access to patrons outside of the physical library. He was also able to see 8 public computers added into the computer area funded by the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) technology grant.

Rhode Island Represents at Gale Impact Live Virtual Conference

Tue, 12 Oct 2021 17:23:06 GMT

Rhode Island librarians were well represented at the Gale Impact Live 2021 Conference on September 29^th and 30^th. The free virtual conference offered more than 20 sessions of professional development for public librarians. The conference was held live, but was also recorded so attendees could view the sessions after it ended.

The theme of the conference was “Connect. Inspire. Elevate.” It focused on the ways libraries adapted to provide services to their communities in the face of building closures due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The speakers came from libraries around the country and addressed topics including advocacy, business development, programming, and diversity and inclusivity. Both days offered a midday meditation break led by a wellness professional.

Rhode Island library staff presented on both days of the conference. On Wednesday, Karen Mellor from the RI Office of Library and Information Services (OLIS), Beatrice Pulliam from Providence Public Library, and Ed Garcia from Cranston Public Library gave a presentation titled “Pivot Your Workforce Development Efforts toward Online Learning.” They spoke about how Rhode Island libraries adapted to support workforce development during the pandemic.

The statewide AskRI partnership added Udemy as a resource, which provides access to on-demand courses on a huge variety of topics. Karen mentioned promoting Udemy to state employees who had to quickly adapt to working from home: “What happened was I kept promoting Udemy with the IT folks, and when they had a few moments to breathe, they found this wealth of courses in Udemy.” She mentioned topics including cloud-based computing, web design, coding, and network security. “Udemy was really important during this time. I had a number of division chiefs promoting it.”

Both Beatrice and Ed mentioned the self-care and personal development facets of Udemy, including things like meditation or learning a musical instrument.

On Thursday, Stephen Spohn from Ocean State Libraries (OSL) and Kelly Metzger from OLIS presented “Follow the Data Journey: Using Data to Fuel Strategic Planning and Decision-making.”

During this session, Kelly and Stephen described an ongoing partnership between OSL, OLIS, and Gale Analytics to develop a custom product that would help libraries in Rhode Island develop an understanding of the their service environment, identify gaps in service to their community, and aid in strategic planning.

With funding through a LORI Grant, Gale was able to create five custom, interactive dashboards for OLIS and OSL. These analytical tools overlay non-identifying patron information with Census, Community Insights, and Mosaic data. Analyses can be broken down for each library or library, library system, or region so libraries could see how they compare with comparable libraries/systems in the area and identify actionable steps they could take.

The dashboards have just recently been released, but Stephen and Kelly expressed excitement over the results they have seen so far. They look forward to publishing and refining the dashboards, collecting more data, and supporting Rhode Island libraries in using them to improve and extend their services.

Announcing the 2022 RI Latino Books Award Nominees!

Thu, 07 Oct 2021 15:38:48 GMT

Our newly formed Rhode Island Latino Books Award Committee is proud to announce the 2022 RI Latino Books Award (formerly known as Rhode Island Latino Books Month Book Award) Nominees.

We are going on our eight year promoting Latino literature for grades kindergarten through 12th grade. Students are encouraged to read three books according to their grade level and vote for their favorite book starting in April through the end of May. Free book sets are provided to Rhode Island public libraries and school libraries in partnership with the Rhode Island Center of the Book. Participants interested in receiving free book sets must promote the nominated books and submit their students’ or patrons votes.

Join us in promoting a Latino literature by bring communities together to celebrate diversity and encourage people to embrace our differences.

Join the RILA Mentorship Program

Thu, 07 Oct 2021 14:48:01 GMT

The RILA Mentorship Program is finishing its first year to great success. We had 15 mentor/mentee pairs (30 participants total). We are now accepting applications for both Mentors and Mentees for the 2022 year.

Mentoring is a wonderful opportunity to make a difference in the life of another person and to gain new insights into our rich profession. You can give and receive guidance and take your career to the next level. Please join our program today to develop lasting professional relationships with others in the field.

To be a part of the RILA Mentorship Program:
●   You must be a current RILA member.
●   You may be a library employee, retired librarian or current library school student.
●   You must make a one-year commitment that includes meeting with your mentor/mentee at least 3-4 times per year by phone, email, web conferencing, or in-person meeting.

Click here to fill out the Mentor Application.

Click here to fill out the Mentee Application.

You can read the Program Guidelines for more information.
For questions, please contact mentor@rilibraries.org.

Pascoag Free Public Library 150th Anniversary Soiree!

Thu, 07 Oct 2021 14:02:23 GMT

Pascoag Public Library is celebrating a sesquicentennial (150 years) this year -- 1871-2021. The library will welcome people from all over Rhode Island to the Soiree on Friday, October 22, 2021 from 6:30 to 9:00 pm. Hors d'oeuvres, punch, coffee, and an anniversary cake will accompany congratulatory testimonials.

In addition, they will have a series of posters (12 in all), telling their story on display in the library. Stop in and see a new one each month.

Learn more at https://www.pascoaglibrary.org/sesquicentennial-celebration

October 2021 Spotlight: Cornucopia of Rhode Island (CORI)

Wed, 06 Oct 2021 19:16:22 GMT

Welcome to the RILA Bulletin Spotlight Series, where we feature the important work of a different RILA or RI library section, committee, roundtable, initiative, or organization in each issue.

Questions or suggestions for this column? Please send an email to communications@rilibraries.org.

October 2021 Spotlight: Cornucopia of Rhode Island

This month, with its fall mini-conference taking place right around the corner, we talked to Cornucopia of Rhode Island (CORI) Chair Bohyun Kim to learn more about this RILA section. Bohyun is Chief Technology Officer and Professor at the University of Rhode Island Libraries in Kingston, RI.

What is the mission or purpose of CORI?

CORI serves the library community of color in RI. Our objectives are to promote library services to people of color within Rhode Island and the development of librarians and library staff of color.

What made you personally interested in being involved with this organization?

CORI is the organization serving the library workers of color in RI. Through CORI, I wanted to meet other POC library workers like me and add my efforts to building our community and making it stronger.

What is CORI’s proudest achievement?

We hold a mini-conference every year that is free and open to all. And this year, it will be on Nov 4. [Editor’s note: read more about the upcoming mini-conference and register here!]

What ongoing challenges does CORI face?

The greatest challenge is to seek active participation from CORI members.

If money and time were not an issue, what is CORI’s number one wishlist item to support its mission or purpose?

Once the pandemic clears, we would love to have a big social gathering for networking so that CORI members can meet one another in person again!

What partnerships with other groups or individuals (inside or outside of RILA) have been most beneficial for CORI to meet its goals or objectives?

We want to thank Julie Holden, Past President of RILA, for helping us with CORI mini-conference logistics both last year and this year!

Is CORI looking for new members, and how can those interested get involved?

Please drop by our CORI quarterly online meeting and contact us by email. More info about CORI is available on our website at https://www.rilibraries.org/cori.

What book are you reading now that you’d like to promote?

Trying Not to Try: The Art and Science of Spontaneity by Edward Slingerland. It discusses the concept of wuwei (無爲) in Chinese philosophy in the context of social psychology.

Ed Garcia Awarded the 2021 Emerson Greenaway Award

Wed, 01 Sep 2021 17:01:07 GMT

Congratulations to Ed Garcia, director of the Cranston Public Library, for being awarded the 2021 Emerson Greenaway Award by the New England Library Association!

Each year NELA awards the Emerson Greenaway Award to an individual who has provided distinguished service in librarianship. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, NELA made the decision not to present this award in 2020. As a result, two outstanding individuals are presented with this honor in 2021: Jennifer Alvino and Ed Garcia.

Jennifer Alvino: Director of the Windham Public Library in Windham, Maine

By the time Jen graduated with an MS in Library and Information Services in 2008 from Simmons College, she had already dedicated many years to working in public libraries. She began her career in 1994 as a Page at the Portland Public Library. Since then, she has held a variety of positions, from office assistant, substitute, and Lending Services and Systems Coordinator in Portland, to Technology Coordinator, Head of Lending Services, and Interim Assistant Director at the Walker Memorial Library, before becoming the Director of the Windham Public Library in 2013.

Jen’s influence as a librarian extends well beyond her service area. She has made significant contributions to the Maine Library Association as a longtime active member, recently serving as the Association President from 2019-2021. MLA named her Outstanding Librarian of the year in 2014. Jen has also been active in the American Library Association for many years, was the ALA Maine Chapter Councilor from 2014-2017, and has been active on many committees.

In addition to her many achievements, Jen is described by her colleagues as collaborative, thoughtful, dedicated, humble in her leadership, and generous with her time. As a former New England Library Leadership Symposium attendee and former ALA Leadership Institute graduate, Jen freely gives her time to mentor students and colleagues whenever they need guidance. She is a fierce advocate, having been instrumental in guiding a team that championed students’ right to read in response to adverse legislation proposed in Maine in 2019. Jen’s successful work in defeating this legislation was important and instructive for other states’ efforts to defeat similar legislation. Library workers across the country, but in particular those within the New England region, benefit greatly from the selfless work Jen has done over the course of her career.

Edward Garcia: Director of the Cranston Public Library in Cranston, RI

Ed has made an enormous impact on libraries in Rhode Island and across the country since graduating from the University of Rhode Island’s GLIS program. He started as the Assistant Director of the Adams Memorial Library in 2008, but has since spent the majority of his career in Cranston, serving as the Information Access Librarian, Technology Coordinator, and has been the Director since 2012. Ed was the first library in the state to go fine-free for teens and children, providing framework for other libraries in the state to follow suit, thus removing barriers to library access among RI youth. Under Ed’s leadership, the Cranston Public Library was the winner of the Jerry Kline Community Impact Prize.

Ed has been an active member of the Rhode Island Library Association for many years and served as the President of the Ocean State Libraries from 2014-2017. Ed has also served as a member of the American Library Association’s executive board since 2018, where he is lauded for his ability to guide discussions towards productive outcomes, and for his ability to bring people with strong and opposing viewpoints together.

Ed is known among his staff, colleagues, and friends for his strong leadership, collaborative spirit, and his willingness to help develop young talent. Ed freely shares his knowledge and willingly mentors those within his circle, and is known to be fair-minded, forward-thinking, generous, humble and likable. He is a dedicated librarian with a strong collaborative vision. Ed is always the first to acknowledge and praise the contributions of others, preferring not to stand in the spotlight alone. He is a true leader who has had a positive impact on libraries both within the New England region and around the country.

Please join the Rhode Island Library Association and New England Library Association in thanking both Jen Alvino and Ed Garcia for their outstanding contributions to libraries over the course of their careers. They will be presented with the distinguished Emerson Greenaway Award at the NELA conference on October 18th, 2021.

Joseph Uscio Concludes a Nearly 38-Year Career at the North Providence Union Free Library

Mon, 30 Aug 2021 16:41:06 GMT

After nearly 38 years working as a reference librarian at the North Providence Union Free Library, Joseph Uscio counts the past year and half as his most memorable time spent working in the public library. Despite being closed for 2 months, NPR got back into action with curbside pickup, like so many libraries, keeping the staff very busy. Joe related that, despite the lack of library delivery, he and his coworkers served patrons by pulling their holds, weeding the collection, and offering a free library of those weeded books. “People really like it,” he enthused.

When asked what he plans to do in retirement, he quipped that he will spend more time with his 10-year-old son, “before I fall apart.” He will continue cultivating his love of Japanese culture which began in 1990. He became friends with local residents originally from Japan after asking if they could help him learn more about a folding screen he owned. Those folks have since returned to Japan, meaning he has no one with whom to practice his Japanese language learning. On the other hand, Joe is an accomplished player of the shinobue, a type of Japanese flute. He was recently asked to play at the Black Ships Festival in Newport, but he declined. He enjoys martial arts since it is a lifetime pursuit. He has a particular interest in Japanese swordsmanship. Martial arts is something he shares with his son who has been involved with karate and kung fu since he was 5.

Joe is well-known in North Providence and is often stopped at the grocery store by folks asking him if their books have come in. He said he feels a bit like a celebrity in town, so the feature story in the Valley Breeze seemed par for the course. Working in the same place for so many years means that he actually worked at the smaller library that existed on George Street, because NPR relocated to its current location on Mineral Spring Avenue.

Joe loves helping people, and the relationships he has forged with patrons and especially staff, whom he considers as an extended family. With his interests in music, science, art, and literature, Joe feels that to be an effective librarian, a person’s entire background comes into play.

West Warwick Public Library Celebrates Pride with “Fun and Fabulous” Drag Storytime

Sat, 07 Aug 2021 18:24:23 GMT

A jam-packed Drag Storytime, featuring local drag performers Ninny Nothin and Randi Xtra Xtra, took place at 11:00am and 1:00pm at West Warwick Public Library (WWPL) on June 26, 2021, to celebrate Pride and showcase the diversity of the community. Both events were full, with 70 parents, teens, and children attending each session.

Rashaa Al-Sasah, Head of Youth Services, and Emma Brelsford, Youth Services Librarian, organized and hosted the events. The two librarians worked with the drag artists to select age-appropriate materials to read during the program.

According to Al-Sasah, “The event went off without a hitch despite the pushback and protests of people who were opposed to the event taking place, with a majority of this [opposition] coming from outside of the West Warwick community.”

A great deal of planning was necessary for the day to run smoothly. “We planned in advance how we would have attendees enter the library and parking lot,” Al-Sasah said. “We had check-in points both at our parking lot and door as the library was not open for library services that day and [was open] only for this special event. This created and ensured a safe environment for all our patrons in attendance.”

Drag artists Ninny Nothin (left) and Randi Xtra Xtra (right)

Titles selected for storytime reading included Stick and Stone by Beth Ferry, Be Who You Are by Todd Parr, Not Quite Narwhal by Jessie Sima, and Peanut Goes for the Gold by Jonathan Van Ness. Each book is well known for themes of inclusion and acceptance. Songs were also used to engage the audience.

Books that were read during WWPL's Drag Storytime

Participants from within and outside the WWPL community were involved with staging the event and contributing to a safe and welcoming atmosphere. Volunteers from the LGBTQIA+ community support and empowerment groups Parasol Patrol and Free Mom Hugs were on hand to redirect attention away from protestors. A bubble machine provided further diversion. Attendees entering the library lobby were greeted by staff, and volunteers at tables represented community and health groups PFLAG of Greater Providence, Youth Pride, Inc. and Thundermist Health Center. Al-Sasah intentionally organized the lobby so that “parents and children could pick up information and swag and talk to representatives of the organizations,” learn about available resources, and make community connections on their way into the event.

Volunteers from Parasol Patrol
make themselves available outside the library

The audience greeted the drag performers with great enthusiasm and applause. In between the reading of each book, Al-Sasah and Brelsford joined the drag performers to lead a singalong to songs including “If You’re Happy and You Know It” and “The More We Get Together.” After Drag Storytime was over, attendees were invited to make a fairy wand craft and pose with the drag artists for photos.

Drag performers and WWPL staff lead the audience in a singalong

“It was a wonderful day with parents and children who were both LGBTQIA+ and allies who enjoyed listening to stories about friendship and being yourself,” said Al-Sasah.

WWPL staff reported that the drag performers “were very happy with the event, particularly [with] the care and measures” taken to ensure the safety and comfort of performers and attendees alike. Safety was of primary concern to Al-Sasah, particularly since “one of the performers was the center of a lot of online harassment” and “we wanted to make sure they knew they were safe.”

“We had a lot of positive reactions overall but there was some negative attention, in particular on social media,” Al-Sasah continued. “Two local Catholic priests were opposed to the event, [as were other] religious groups from outside of our community who sought to have the event canceled.”

Nevertheless, Al-Sasah is very happy with how the program went and felt that it “was certainly one of the highlights of my library career thus far to see all the happy kids and families thank us and the artists for telling them and their children to just ‘be who you are!’” The draw of the event has even resulted in newly devoted patrons to the library.

Volunteers from Parasol Patrol escort patrons to and from the building

Drag Storytime was an especially important event because “WWPL is committed to incorporating equity, diversity, inclusion, and justice into all our efforts and practices,” said Al-Sasah. “Working in West Warwick for several years, I found that we had a lot of LGBTQIA+ youth and families in our community [and] we didn't have any programs that were for our younger children. I thought this would be the perfect type of program for these kids and families to know they belonged and were welcome at the library.”

Al-Sasah continued, “We were thrown a lot of unexpected curveballs with the backlash but to us, this meant we were doing this for all the right reasons and [this] only further solidified our purpose in celebrating the diversity of our patrons.”

Will there be another Drag Storytime in West Warwick any time soon? “We certainly would love to host it again,” said Al-Sasah, “but have not made any plans just yet. But I would love to see more RI libraries host one, too!”

August 2021 Spotlight: School Librarians of Rhode Island (SLRI)

Sat, 07 Aug 2021 18:05:31 GMT

Welcome to the RILA Bulletin Spotlight Series, where we feature the important work of a different RILA or RI library section, committee, roundtable, initiative, or organization in each issue.

Questions or suggestions for this column? Please send an email to communications@rilibraries.org.

August 2021 Spotlight: School Librarians of Rhode Island (SLRI)

This month, with the new school year right around the corner, we talked to Joan Eldredge-Mouradjian, President of School Librarians of Rhode Island (SLRI). Joan is the School Library Media Specialist at Narragansett Pier School in Narragansett, RI.

What is the mission or purpose of SLRI?

Our mission is three-fold: to promote the improvement of instruction through opportunities that broaden the professional knowledge, understanding, and experience of our members; to provide leadership in defining, interpreting, and promoting effective library media programs to the community; and to serve as facilitator between the State Department of Education, Office of Library and Information Services, professional organizations, and the general public.

What made you personally interested in being involved with this organization?

I was really inspired to become an active member of SLRI by my friend Sarah Hunicke, who is a past president of the organization. Sarah is passionate about libraries. I was always a member of SLRI, but I think I took for granted all the work and advocacy the organization accomplishes on behalf of school librarians. Over the past years, some districts have cut librarian positions at all levels, reduced funding, and really minimized the importance of a school library staffed by a Library Media Specialist. I thought it was time to give back to my beloved profession and the organization that has supported libraries.

What is SLRI’s proudest achievement?

After nearly two years of work with the Rhode Island Department of Education (RIDE) and the RILA Legislative Action Committee, SLRI made a presentation to the RI Council on Elementary and Secondary Education requesting that RIDE endorse the American Association of School Librarians (AASL) National School Library Standards. At the end of the meeting, the Council voted unanimously to accept the Standards. This endorsement reinforces the importance of librarians and school libraries in Rhode Island and recognizes the value of a standards-based library curriculum, which is a critical component of student academic success.

RIDE has since officially endorsed the AASL National School Library Standards, which are used to guide school library curriculum in RI. The endorsement solidified RIDE’s belief that strong school libraries and certified school librarians play a key role in student learning and achievement. These Standards emphasize important aspects of student learning and development that allow students to develop the abilities to think, to create, to share, and to grow.

What ongoing challenges does SLRI face?

The biggest challenge for SLRI is to ensure that school librarians are recognized for their role in the success of all students. The roles and responsibilities of school librarians have evolved in recent decades to meet the needs of today’s learning initiatives. It is more important than ever, in this age of information and disinformation, that students are given the research skills necessary for college and career readiness and the skills to be informed and active citizens. Now, with the plethora of information available to students, librarians are needed more than ever.

If money and time were not an issue, what is SLRI’s number one wish list item to support its mission or purpose?

If money were no object, SLRI would ensure that every school in Rhode Island was staffed with a certified Library Media Specialist, and that the LMS would have a budget that allowed for the purchase of proper resources for every student.

What partnerships with other groups or individuals (inside or outside of RILA) have been most beneficial for SLRI to meet its goals or objectives?

Being part of RILA has made SLRI a stronger organization. For example, SLRI and the RILA Legislative Action Committee worked together to promote the adoption of the AASL Standards by RIDE. The Rhode Island Library and Information Network for Kids (RILINK) supports libraries, students, and teachers with training and shared resources. RILINK has been invaluable to the SLRI community. [Editor’s note: RILINK is the membership-based statewide consortium of school libraries.]

Is SLRI looking for new members, and how can those interested get involved?

One of the goals for SLRI is to encourage all school librarians in Rhode Island to join the organization. Involved members will help SLRI to continue advocating for librarians in RI. Please join SLRI or renew membership by clicking here to access the RILA membership web page. Librarians wishing to become involved in SLRI can click here to visit the SLRI web page and contact any board member for information.

What book are you reading now that you’d like to promote?

The Rose Code by Kate Quinn. I loved this book because it focuses on a little-known story of female British code breakers in World War II. This is a page-turner, with characters I cared about.

A Look Back at the Coalition of Library Advocates, 1982-2021

Sat, 07 Aug 2021 14:25:39 GMT

As a RILA member you may have read recently about the dissolution of the COLA section. Some of you may never have heard of the group, so here’s the scoop:

1982	Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” was on the radio, “E.T.” was on the big screen, EPCOT opened in Orlando, FL, a severe recession began in the U.S., and the Coalition of Library Advocates formed. Within weeks of the original group’s formation, President Reagan had proposed zero funding for libraries in the federal budget. COLA collected over 7,000 signatures to protest the cut. That spring, COLA members presented the petitions to their Congressional delegation in Washington, DC on Legislative Day. Library funding was preserved. COLA began as an outgrowth of the 1979 Governor’s Conference on Library and Information Services, which was held to prepare for the first White House Conference on Library and Information Services. Until 1985, when it was incorporated, COLA was a loose “organization of organizations.”
1984	By 1984, it became clear that COLA needed to incorporate and to achieve federal nonprofit status. It also became clear that COLA’s membership base should be primarily laypeople with input on the Board from a representative of each of the state’s professional library associations. Funds were needed to carry out its mission, making membership dues a necessity. A 1984 conference, “Libraries in the Future of Education: A RI Perspective,” was chaired by Richard Olsen, then Director of the James P. Adams Library at Rhode Island College. This was the library community’s response—the first in the nation—to A Nation at Risk, published by the National Commission on Excellence in Education, which deplored the poor quality of education in the United States and proposed a fix that said not one word about libraries. COLA’s conference brought keynote speakers, panels of educators, and representatives of public, school, special, and academic libraries together to discuss mutual concerns. It may have been the first time that educators and librarians met together in such a forum. The participants recommended ways of bringing together teachers, school and public librarians, students, and parents. They offered ideas on political action, advocacy, public relations, and—most importantly—the need for groups to communicate with each other.
1986	COLA is instrumental in helping to pass—by 68% of the vote—the 1986 Rhode Island Constitutional amendment mandating state support of public libraries. Rose Ellen Reynolds, a delegate to the Constitutional Convention and later a COLA Chair, shepherded the amendment through.
1989	This set the scene for the 1989 legislation—advocated strongly by COLA—that requires Rhode Island to fund its public libraries by at least 25% of operating expenses. That mandate, combined with a generous state library construction program, makes the State of Rhode Island a national leader in library funding. A statewide library fair, held in Warwick Mall. Then-Director of DSLS, Fay Zipkowitz, pranced around the Warwick Mall in a stiflingly hot gorilla suit, exhorting shoppers to learn about library services at the exhibits prepared by all types of Rhode Island libraries and library organizations during a statewide library fair. There were television and computer demonstrations, film showings, and a “Stump the RI Historical Society” exhibit.
1991	COLA helped to organize the 1991 Governor’s Conference on Library and Information Services in preparation for the second White House Conference. Later, the group agreed on eight top-priority recommendations that became a blueprint for action for the Rhode Island library community. COLA published these priorities in a widely circulated Agenda for the Nineties.
1994	1994 brought the renowned and hilarious Arch Lustberg to Rhode Island to teach laypeople and professionals techniques for giving testimony and persuading others.
2006	A conference that brought together library Friends groups and library Trustees to share their experiences in supporting libraries was greeted with enthusiasm.

COLA Sweethearts: Each year the group honored a local library supporter as their “Sweetheart of the Year,” because the annual meeting had been held in February. These library advocates included the late Senator Claiborne Pell and our current Senator Jack Reed, along with our local grassroots supporters, including Joan Ress Reeves. COLA also awarded scholarships to URI GSLIS students.

Summer Highlights at Greenville Library

Sat, 07 Aug 2021 14:00:29 GMT

Greenville Library staff took programming outside -- way out! Hitting the trail, the park, and the library lawn, Greenville staff collaborated with community groups and volunteers to connect with Smithfield patrons.

Here are a few highlights from the Greenville Library staff from the 2021 Summer Reading program:

The morning of Thursday, July 15th, shaped up to be a warm summer day and just right for an outdoor program. Children and their parents/caregivers joined volunteer Renee Finlay and Children’s Librarian Babs Wells for the Woodland Whispers Story and Craft program at the Smithfield Conservation Center. The families enjoyed a read aloud story while sharing lively connections about the summer activities they have been doing together.

Renee then led a guided hike, which featured the native plants that can be found on the trails. Children and their grown-ups also foraged for leaves, twigs, and other natural materials for the printmaking craft. While using either paintbrushes, sponges, or finger painting, beautiful nature prints were created by children and adults! Many of the patrons who attended this program asked when we can all get together again. Renee and Babs already have plans for another outdoor library program at the conservation center in October.

Also on July 15, Children’s Librarian Babs Wells and Assistant Director Cassie Patterson took the newly minted “Greenville Library Book Buggy” on the road to spread the word on summer programs. The buggy was purchased with funds from the OLIS Summer Mini Grant. We packed the cart full of donated books, info on summer at the Greenville Library, and a few surprises for the kids. The cart was a hit among young and old at a food truck and fireworks event held at Deerfield Park in Smithfield. Visiting with patrons we’ve missed seeing at the library and making new friends was the highlight of this outreach effort. We look forward to more adventures in the community with our book buggy.

Later in July, the library collaborated with Cadence Academy Preschool in Smithfield to present Storytime Safari. Developed by Patty DeFrancesco, this program brought children outside under the library’s sequoia tree. Children listened to a story read by Patty and then explored stations set up with safari-themed crafts. As they completed each craft, children presented their safari passport to be stamped by one of our volunteers. Participants were able to remain socially distanced as they navigated the stations in small groups.

Scholarship Opportunity: LJ Fostering an Antiracist Library Culture

Tue, 27 Jul 2021 19:37:50 GMT

The Office of Library and Information Services and RILA are partnering to support professional development for individuals interested in advancing their understanding of systemic racism and developing practical skills to foster antiracist library environments. OLIS and RILA will provide a limited number of scholarships for individuals to attend Library Journal’s

Fostering an Antiracist Library Culture, a 3-week online course that will run virtually on Tuesdays from September 28 - October 12. This opportunity is open to all library staff from any type of RI library and RI public library trustees. Visit the Fostering an Antiracist Library Culture course page (www.libraryjournal.com/?event=equity-in-action-sept-2021) to learn more about the course, see an outline of the schedule and read about the presenters.

Please complete the online application to be considered for this scholarship, which will cover the full cost of enrolling in the course. OLIS and RILA will announce scholarship winners no later than August 27. Applications are due by August 20 at 4:00 PM

SLRI Documentary Selected for International Film Festivals

Fri, 02 Jul 2021 19:57:37 GMT

Congratulations to the School Librarians of Rhode Island section! Their documentary "Overdue: The Value of School Librarians" was named as an official selection of the Rhode Island International Film Festival and the Green Mountain International Film Festival.

SLRI produced this short documentary-style advocacy film to show the value of school librarians. Anyone is free to view and share the video to use for advocacy purposes. The full 15-minute film is licensed under Creative Commons public license 4.0 and is available to view and share on Vimeo at this URL:

https://vimeo.com/445826301/def52b7668

In addition to the film, SLRI has prepared resources to help viewers start advocating for their school librarians. These include a film viewing welcome letter, a film discussion guide, and an advocacy letter template to send to your school board, principal, newspaper, parent groups, administration, or any group that has a stake in education.

Rhode Island Library Association Awards Librarians, Library Professionals, and Library Supporters at Annual Conference

Mon, 07 Jun 2021 20:47:28 GMT

The Rhode Island Library Association (RILA) presented its annual awards at the RILA Annual Conference, which was held virtually June 3-4, 2021. The theme for the conference was “Well + Connected: Libraries and Healthy Communities,” and the recipients of this year’s awards exemplify the library community’s commitment to creating and supporting strong and healthy communities.

"This is an exceptional slate of award recipients,” said outgoing RILA President Julie Holden, “and we are honored to highlight and promote their work, especially our library supporters, former Representative Robert Jacquard and Mary Ann and Walter Slocomb."

Congratulations to the winners of this year's RILA Awards:

Library Champion Award: Robert Jacquard, Former State Representative, District 17, Cranston

“During his long tenure at the State House, Jacquard was a champion for Rhode Island libraries and a tireless advocate for full funding of state grant-in-aid for public libraries,” said Ed Garcia, director of the Cranston Public Library. “For his unwavering support of libraries and his hard work and advocacy for increased library funding, Jacquard exemplifies the qualities and dedication of a library champion and is deserving of recognition with this award.”

“I really appreciate this award from the library association,” said Robert Jacquard. “Libraries have been as important as local schools to me during my time in the general assembly. I think we’re going to see, after the pandemic, that libraries are more important to people than ever.”

Outstanding Librarian Award: Michelle Steever, Librarian at East Greenwich High School

“With Mrs. Michelle Steever’s arrival at East Greenwich High School, we gained more than a media specialist,” said David Amiradri, a student at the high school. “We gained a technology-savvy executive, with a clear vision of the library of the future. We gained a compassionate educator, understanding of the challenges faced by students in the twenty-first century.”

“She has brought her leadership skills and broad perspective to the School Improvement Team as we develop best practices and student supports,” said Frank Lenox, a teacher in the science department at East Greenwich High School. “Through all of our interactions, I am reminded how central a library is to the daily practices of a school community. And even more, how essential a librarian can be to the staff and students of every school community.”

“Her reach and impact extends well beyond the faculty, staff, and students at East Greenwich High School,” said Patricia Page, Business and Digital Technology Educator at East Greenwich High School. “Michelle has redefined what a student-centered, professional learning community looks, feels, and sounds like.”

Outstanding Library Paraprofessional Award: Lynda LaCava, Library Assistant at North Providence Union Free Library

“Lynda has been inside, outside, and all around North Providence performing outdoor story times, virtual visits to nearby parks, and never once let weather or the pandemic deter her from providing these essential services to the community,” said Stefanie Blankenship, director of the North Providence Union Free Library.

Trustee of the Year Award: Dorothy Swain, Chair of the Board of Trustees at North Providence Union Free Library

Ms. Swain “embodies the true sense of libraries, beyond physical buildings, and is always at the ready to help and serve,” said Stefanie Blankenship, director of the North Providence Union Free Library. “She has led us through one of the most difficult years without once faltering. Though she has seen this library go through many transitions, this past year was without a doubt the most jolting. Yet, her steadfast manner held us all together.”

Meritorious Friend of the Library Award: Mary Ann and Walter Slocomb, Cranston Public Library

“The Slocombs have been strong supporters of the Cranston Public Library for several years,” said Ed Garcia, director of the Cranston Public Library. “Mary Ann and Walter created the Mary Ann and Walter Slocomb Fund at the Cranston Public Library Association in 2016 with a $10,000 donation. To date, they have donated over $50,000. Mary Ann and Walter have been incredible friends of the Cranston Public Library, not only donating their money but in giving of their time. They have volunteered at our Friends book sale and also attend library programs and special events. They have been a major part in the Cranston Public Library becoming a nationally recognized award-winning library.”

June 2021 Spotlight: RILA Legislative Action Committee

Mon, 07 Jun 2021 17:13:22 GMT

Welcome to the RILA Bulletin Spotlight Series, where we feature the important work of a different RILA or RI library section, committee, roundtable, initiative, or organization in each issue.

Questions or suggestions for this column? Please send an email to communications@rilibraries.org.

June 2021 Spotlight: RILA Legislative Action Committee

This month, we talked to Ed Garcia, Chair of the RILA Legislative Action Committee. Ed is the Director of Cranston Public Library.

What is the mission or purpose of the RILA Legislative Action Committee?

The Legislative Action Committee is responsible for recommending a legislative plan for the Association. The Committee assists and advises the Executive Board and the membership in appropriate action to affect proposed legislation.

What made you personally interested in being involved with this organization?

I've always been very interested in the power of advocacy, [in] being able to talk to a legislator or an official and influence their decision making. Advocating for an issue—in this case, the importance of libraries—and telling the stories of how we impact the lives of our users has always been an important part of what I do as a Library Director and advocate.

What is the proudest achievement of the Legislative Action Committee?

The Committee has been very successful in recent years. We successfully advocated for $1.1 million in additional state aid to RI public libraries. Working with our School Librarians of Rhode Island (SLRI) colleagues, we were able to leverage some legislative advocacy into working with the RI Department of Education to have the American Association of School Libraries (AASL) National School Library Standards officially adopted.

What ongoing challenges does the Legislative Action Committee face?

We are constantly working to achieve full funding of state aid to libraries as prescribed by law.

If money and time were not an issue, what is the number one wish list item of this Committee to support its mission or purpose?

It would be nice to have enough time, money, and people to produce more advocacy communications to go to not only RILA members but to the general public in support of libraries.

What partnerships with other groups or individuals (inside or outside of RILA) have been most beneficial for this Committee to meet its goals or objectives?

Within RILA, being able to work with sections like SLRI on important issues is key. Also being able to learn from advocates at the Coalition of Library Advocates (COLA) has been personally impactful to me. Being able to work with and learn from amazing library advocates like Joan Ress Reeves and Rose Ellen Reynolds, both of whom helped found COLA, has been a privilege. We also work closely with both the ALA Public Policy and Advocacy office and Chapter Relations office to advocate to our federal delegation in Congress. Rhode Island is the envy of other states because of our strong presence in Congress, with incredible library supporters in Senators Reed and Whitehouse and Congressmen Cicilline and Langevin.

Is the Legislative Action Committee looking for new members, and how can those interested get involved?

Please visit https://www.rilibraries.org/advocacy and sign up for advocacy updates and to stay informed on advocacy-related issues.

What book are you reading now that you’d like to promote?

Dark Work: the Business of Slavery in Rhode Island by Christy Clark-Pujara. This book was eye opening about the history of slavery in Rhode Island. Even after slavery was abolished in the North, Rhode Island was still in the business of producing goods that supported slavery in the South.

COLA Presents Awards, Votes to Dissolve at Final Annual Meeting

Tue, 18 May 2021 16:32:50 GMT

The Coalition of Library Advocates (COLA) Annual Meeting, held on Tuesday, April 6, 2021, was its final meeting. After much study and thought, COLA’s Board of Directors, in close and careful consultation with RILA’s Board, asked for COLA to be fully absorbed into RILA rather than exist as a separate board with a chairperson. In this way, the efforts of library supporters will be part of RILA’s general actions. It was specifically noted that, with the efforts of the Legislative Action Committee, the work of COLA is continuing. All members of RILA continue to receive those updates, and now we can encourage anyone in the state who supports libraries to join RILA for a nominal fee.

The groundwork laid by people including Rosellen Reynolds, Tom Viall, Joan Ress Reeves, and many others will not be forgotten. The vote at the annual meeting was unanimous to dissolve the organization.

At this year’s final annual meeting, the following awards were presented: The William Bergeron Public Library Scholarship was presented to Christina Swiszcz. Christina has worked at the Newport County Campus Library of the Community College of Rhode Island for several years. Her primary role is managing the circulation desk, including hiring and managing the student employees. For Christina, making connections with students, helping them find materials and other campus resources, is incredibly rewarding. Besides being an outstanding student, Christina plans on continuing to serve the public as an academic librarian after graduating with her masters in library and information studies (MLIS).

The Linda Aldrich School Library Scholarship was presented to Elena Hughes. Elena has been dedicated to school libraries since she began at the University or Rhode Island's Graduate School of Library and Information Studies (GSLIS). She has been to Tanzania to build a rural school library, and next year she will be participating in the RILA mentoring program. One of Elena's goals is to collaborate with other school media specialists to develop and share best practices in school librarianship and how they are inherently primed for advocacy. Elena is interested in developing library curriculum that embeds social emotional learning, cultivating collections and resources that reflect the diverse needs and experiences of the community.

The Sweetheart of the Year Award was presented to Karen Mellor, Chief of Library Services, Office of RI Library and Information Services. As Rhode Island’s Chief of Library Services since 2013, Karen has long been a trusted advisor, ally, and collaborator of COLA as well as the library community. Since the pandemic, she has worked heroically to coordinate CARES Act grants for library expenses and support librarians in adapting to the year’s challenges with everything from policy development to the creation of virtual services.

The William E. Reeves Award for outstanding programming by a Library Friends Group was presented to the East Smithfield Public Library Friends Group for sponsoring the presentation about the Esmond Bunny blankets. Their event brought together library users and community members to hear from local historian Sandra Achille. Ms. Achille discussed the local history of the Esmond Mills, located in East Smithfield, RI, from 1906 to 1948. This event received news coverage in the Valley Breeze and was well attended for a cold January 2020 evening.

Those who attended also listened to a wonderful talk given by Frederick Reamer, a Pawtucket resident. Dr. Reamer (shown in photo) is a professor in the graduate program of the School of Social Work at Rhode Island College. His research and teaching have addressed a wide range of issues, including mental health, health care, criminal justice, public welfare, and professional ethics. Dr. Reamer received his Ph.D. from the University of Chicago (1978) and has served as a social worker in correctional and mental health settings. Dr. Reamer is also the host of This I Believe New England on The Public’s Radio, where he shares stories of New Englanders. The story he shared with us about the impact of a single book on his life was powerful. We thank him sincerely for the beautiful ending to a bittersweet meeting.

We thank everyone who came together and supported the decision to dissolve COLA in its current iteration. Thanks go to the remaining active board members who helped plan this meeting: Gale Eaton, John Bucci, Lisa Ashe, Karen Markin, and Emilie Benoit.

-- Submitted by 2020-2021 COLA Chair Robin Nyzio, MLIS; branch librarian at the William Hall Library

OLIS and RILA Sponsor Town Hall Discussion with Senator Jack Reed for National Library Week

Wed, 14 Apr 2021 16:50:42 GMT

The Office of Library and Information Services (OLIS) and the Rhode Island Library Association (RILA) sponsored a "town hall" virtual discussion with Senator Jack Reed on Monday, April 5th, to celebrate National Library Week. Discussion centered on how libraries have adapted during the coronavirus pandemic, how we safely reopened our libraries, and some of the impactful programming we provided to the public during the last year.

Senator Reed spoke to attendees about the introduction of the Library Stabilization Fund Act, which was incorporated into the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 and will provide $200 million to the nation’s libraries through the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). Senator Reed has also introduced the Build America’s Libraries Act; if passed, this legislation will provide federal funding for library construction for the first time in over two decades. Panelists at the event included Cheryl Space (director, Providence Community Library); Ryan Brennan (director, Rogers Free Library); Brigitte Hopkins and Bill Lancellotta (executive director and assistant director, Westerly Library); Amber Bliss (head of information services, West Warwick Public Library) and Ed Garcia (director, Cranston Public Library). OLIS Chief Library Officer Karen Mellor and RILA President Julie Holden moderated the event.

The theme for National Library Week (April 4-10, 2021), “Welcome to Your Library,” promoted the idea that libraries extend far beyond the four walls of a building – and that everyone is welcome to use their services. During the pandemic, libraries have been going above and beyond to adapt to our changing world by expanding their resources and continuing to meet the needs of their users. We are grateful to Senator Reed and his staff for taking the time to celebrate libraries during this special week and for continuously supporting funding for library services.

April 2021 Spotlight: RILA Conference Committee

Tue, 13 Apr 2021 19:51:40 GMT

Welcome to the RILA Bulletin Spotlight Series, where we feature the important work of a different RILA or RI library section, committee, roundtable, initiative, or organization in each issue.

Questions or suggestions for this column? Please send an email to communications@rilibraries.org.

April 2021 Spotlight: RILA Conference Committee

This month, we talked to Nicolette Baffoni and Joseph Morra, Co-Chairs of the RILA Conference Committee. Nicolette is the Library Development Manager at the Rhode Island Office of Library & Information Services (OLIS). Joseph is the Branch Manager of Olneyville Library, Providence Community Library.

What is the mission or purpose of the RILA Conference Committee?

The RILA Conference Committee is responsible for planning and implementing all conferences sponsored by the Association. The Annual Conference is to include programs on current library concerns. Any conference is to provide an opportunity for exchange of ideas on a formal and informal basis.

What made you personally interested in being involved with this organization?

Joseph: The annual conference was my first entry point in becoming involved. However, the seed was planted by my URI GSLIS professors, who highly encouraged students to join a professional organization.

Nicolette: I really value the connection and collaboration that come from getting involved with an organization like RILA. At my job at OLIS, I was planning learning opportunities and events for library staff as part of my job and so when I was looking for a way to get more involved in RILA, the Conference Committee was a great entry point for me!

What this Committee's proudest achievement?

Our proudest achievement has been the pivot in 2020 from an in-person conference to a virtual one. In the early days of the pandemic, there was so much uncertainty and no one thought we’d be social distancing and working from home until the end of May, let alone for over a year. We put off the decision until the very last minute and ended up figuring out all the logistics of our very first virtual conference in about 4 weeks because we were adamant that we did not want to cancel. In the end, we were able to offer a mostly smooth-running virtual conference that was free to RILA members and brought together more than 200 people from the RI library community.

What ongoing challenges does the Conference Committee face?

There is always a challenge of balancing the budget. Ultimately, the annual conference acts as a fundraiser for RILA, and we want to end the event in the black. It takes hard work and creativity to attract vendors, keep costs down, and set reasonable registration fees while still trying to put on an excellent, professional conference. The 2020 and 2021 conferences presented an entirely new challenge in this regard: costs are lower for a virtual conference, but how do we attract vendors and attendees, and curate an experience that is worth taking a day to attend?

If money and time were not an issue, what is the number one wish list item of this Committee to support its mission or purpose?

If money were not an issue, we would love to invite some bigger name speakers to present keynotes. Each year, we continue to find absolutely excellent keynote speakers on a shoestring budget, but it would be great to open up our search to include some presenters who are national presenters, but come with a higher price tag. It would also be fun to be able to splurge on whatever the finest meal options are for lunch! Carving station, anyone?

What partnerships with other groups or individuals (inside or outside of RILA) have been most beneficial for this Committee to meet its goals or objectives?

The Conference Committee benefits so much from working with the RILA Communications Committee, who help us promote our events. That includes promoting the request for proposals, registration, and just generally hyping the annual conference. The Conference Committee also benefits from having an engaged RILA President and Vice President (both current and past) who are willing to offer their input and expertise throughout the planning process. Finally, we’d be remiss if we did not mention Bryant University; when the conference is in person, the use of Bryant’s facilities for the past several years has allowed us to put on a comfortable, professional conference while also keeping costs down.

Is the Committee looking for new members, and how can those interested get involved?

Yes! When you become a RILA member, you have the opportunity to be a part of a number of different committees (e.g., Conference, Intellectual Freedom) or become part of the mentorship program, either as a mentor or mentee. The Conference Committee, in particular, is always excited to welcome new members and requires a commitment of about 1 day per month, plus additional assignments and day-of-conference support. As a Conference Committee member, you help to plan the conference theme, speakers, and sessions and brainstorm creative ways to make the conference a great experience for attendees, presenters, and exhibitors. If you want to get involved in planning for the 2022 conference, please email Nicolette Baffoni (nicolette.baffoni@olis.ri.gov).

Interested in attending the 2021 RILA Conference? Registration opens on April 19th. Please visit rilibraries.org/rila2021 for more information.

West Warwick Public Library Named Finalist for 2021 IMLS National Medal for Museum and Library Service

Fri, 19 Mar 2021 19:55:49 GMT

West Warwick, RI—The Institute of Museum and Library Services announced today that West Warwick Public Library is among 30 finalists for the 2021 National Medal for Museum and Library Service. West Warwick Public Library is the only institution in Rhode Island to be selected as a finalist for this award, and the first library in the state to be so recognized by IMLS since Providence Public Library in 2001.

"The revival and reinstitution of the National Medals by IMLS is another signal of recovery and renewal in the nation’s very challenging—but very hopeful—times,” said IMLS Director Crosby Kemper. “We are celebrating not only the ongoing excellence of the best of our museums and libraries, but their extraordinary efforts through the pandemic, the recession, the racial justice protests, and national divisions to serve, heal, and bring together our communities. Congratulations to all 30 finalists."

The National Medal is the nation’s highest honor given to museums and libraries that demonstrate significant impact in their communities. For more than 25 years, the award has honored institutions that demonstrate excellence in service to their communities.

“Like many towns across the country, West Warwick - once a center of manufacturing in the state - has had to face up to the economic and social challenges of the more recent past.” said Library Director Colin McCullough. “Yet our diverse population remains vibrant and optimistic for the future, an attitude buoyed up by the West Warwick Public Library. Our patrons’ needs might be informational, educational or – given the last twelve months – simply fun and entertainment, but each request is met with the same care and consideration by a dedicated staff. This recognition on the part of IMLS is a well-deserved tribute to their creativity, commitment to inclusivity, and sense of community.”

To celebrate this honor, IMLS is encouraging West Warwick Public Library’s community members to share stories, memories, pictures, and videos on social media as part of the Share Your Story campaign, using the #IMLSmedals hashtag, and engage with IMLS on Facebook and Twitter. For more information, please visit the IMLS website.

National Medal winners will be announced in late spring. Representatives from winning institutions will be honored for their extraordinary contributions during a virtual National Medal Ceremony this summer.

To see the full list of finalists and learn more about the National Medal, visit the IMLS website.

About the Institute of Museum and Library Services
The Institute of Museum and Library Services is the primary source of federal support for the nation's libraries and museums. We advance, support, and empower America’s museums, libraries, and related organizations through grantmaking, research, and policy development. Our vision is a nation where museums and libraries work together to transform the lives of individuals and communities. To learn more, visit www.imls.gov and follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

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In the Round: RILA Members Learn About Learning Circles

Wed, 10 Mar 2021 18:20:11 GMT

In February 2021, 21 librarians from state, public, and academic libraries across Rhode Island participated in a 5-week professional development training on how to facilitate learning circles. This opportunity was offered through the Rhode Island Library Association (RILA) in partnership with Peer to Peer University (P2PU). It was made possible by a donation from EBSCO Industries, Inc., in coordination with the RI Office of Library & Information Services, and supported by staff from the Providence Public Library.

RILA had two goals for offering this training: to introduce this model of peer-driven learning to Rhode Island libraries and to train facilitators who could then bring a special learning circle, titled How to Talk About Race, to library staff throughout Rhode Island.

What is a learning circle?

Learning circles are free, peer-led study groups where people can take an online class together, virtually or in person. P2PU offers hundreds of free, online courses covering a variety of topics and interests. Participants in the training learned how they could also adapt any freely available courses, from sources like Udemy, LinkedIn Learning (formerly Lynda), and others, to the learning circle format.

“Learning circles create valuable opportunities that not only increase engagement and retention in online courses, but (more importantly) also create accessible spaces for library patrons to increase their confidence in topics that are important to them in a supportive environment,” says Grif Peterson, Executive Director of P2PU.

“Learning Circles meet the mission of public libraries head-on!” says Joyce May, Acting Director of East Providence Public Library. “Both value community and shared experiences. Both create exciting opportunities for lifelong learning and, most importantly, both value the integrity of each and every patron and participant.”

Because learning circles use a peer-driven learning model, the person in the facilitator role does not need to be an expert in the material being presented. They are simply there to keep time, move the agenda along, and to learn along with the rest of the group.

“I really appreciated the emphasis on the meeting facilitator not needing to have all the answers” says State Librarian Megan Hamlin-Black. “I think, so often, whoever is steering the meeting feels like they need to be the expert, but that mentality or framework leaves out room for personal growth.”

Learning about learning circles…in a learning circle.

Participants met via Zoom for 5 weeks, for 90 minutes each week, to learn about learning circles and experience what they are like by participating in one themselves. The participants met in two groups, led by Beatrice Pulliam and Sherry Lehane of the Providence Public Library and Grif Peterson and Qumisha Goss of P2PU.

Each week, participants were engaged using a blend of video, text, and large- and small-group discussions to explore how learning circles are designed; how to select, organize, and facilitate a course; and how to hold productive conversations around sensitive topics.

Julie Holden, Assistant Director of Cranston Public Library, said the learning experience was “delightfully different. I very much enjoyed learning in this group setting instead of being lectured to. There was time for verbal participation and time for non-verbal participation using a shared document, plus individual work time; the whole experience was the closest to a classroom experience that I've ever had on Zoom. I never felt Zoom fatigued.”

“The format of the Learning Circle, with check-ins, breakout groups, and time for reflection, helped all of us to feel more comfortable with one another, which led to some great discussion!” says Gretchen Sotomayor, Special Programs and Instruction Librarian at Salve Regina University’s McKillop Library. “Another benefit to the Learning Circle structure is that it does not require advance preparation. Instead, participants review materials together, and then discuss the issue. [How to Talk About Race, the subject of RILA’s upcoming learning circles] is not an easy topic to facilitate, and the session on ‘difficult discussions’ provided guidance on how to navigate ‘moving toward conflict’ and being okay with silence in a group.”

Because learning circles use a peer-learning model, participants are encouraged to take responsibility for their own grasp of the material and look to themselves and their fellow learners for insight. Everyone is a student, and everyone is a teacher.

“I appreciated the evolution of the training experience,” says Meredith Bonds-Harmon,
Head of Reference at East Providence Public Library. “We all seemed to move from awkward and confused to more confident, connected, and assured, or at least I did! As an adult, learning a new skill is not an everyday event. So it did stretch me, and I really appreciated how our facilitators did not try to soothe discomfort but instead move along with us, at our pace.”

Experience a learning circle yourself, and explore how to tackle a tough subject with your peers and patrons.

Our newly trained learning circle facilitators will put what they’ve learned into practice by leading learning circles of their own on the topic of How to Talk About Race.

The How to Talk About Race learning circle was developed as an in-person workshop by Amrita S. Patel and Denise LaForce, former colleagues at Charlotte Mecklenburg Library in North Carolina. They brought the workshop to P2PU because they trusted the learning circle model to responsibly convey their expertise to new communities around the country. Amrita further adapted the course based on feedback from RILA.

“To hear new communities are adapting the content is exciting and exactly what Denise and I hoped for when we adapted ‘How to Talk About Race’ to a Learning Circle”, says Amrita. “Conversations about race can be deeply polarizing, but it can be empowering when you have the resources to navigate them respectfully, confidently, and comfortably.”

“I am grateful for the opportunity to be a part of introducing this learning circle topic to the Rhode Island library community,” says Colleen Wolf, Reference Librarian and Technology Instructor at Warwick Public Library. “I am excited about learning alongside my colleagues while we engage in important and perhaps difficult conversations.”

All Rhode Island library staff are invited to participate in one of these free, 5-week learning circles beginning the week of March 29th. There are a variety of days and times available to accommodate your schedule.

Click here to learn more and to register: https://www.p2pu.org/rila/

RILA Legislative Action Report

Wed, 10 Feb 2021 17:39:15 GMT

The legislative session at the State House is in full swing. In January, the RILA Executive Board approved the 2021 Legislative Priorities as presented by the RILA Legislative Action Committee.

State Aid to Libraries

In recognition of the importance of public libraries in our society, the Rhode Island General Assembly passed legislation providing for state aid for public library services. Rhode Island law (RIGL §29-6-2) establishes state aid for the support of local public library services to be equal to at least 25% of the amount appropriated and expended by the city or town from local tax revenues or funds from the public library's private endowment two years prior. RILA typically advocates to the General Assembly to fully fund state aid to Rhode Island’s public libraries at 25%. Due to financial constraints brought about by the pandemic, RILA supports level funding of state aid to libraries for FY2022.

Net Neutrality

The Federal Communications Commission's (FCC’s) December 2017 “Restoring Internet Freedom Order” grants internet service providers (ISPs) unmitigated freedom to violate net neutrality principles, while severely infringing upon Americans’ right to fair internet access and endangering the innovation economy. The internet is essential for people to have a voice in the political process and to access the viewpoints of others. Publicly supported institutions, such as libraries, universities, and K-12 schools, provide their community members with equal access to the internet. Limiting access means users’ rights to participate in democracy is diminished and the foundation of our nation’s democracy is undermined. RILA has supported legislation supporting net neutrality in 2018, 2019, and 2020. RILA supports H5054, which calls for any ISP doing business with the state of Rhode Island to adhere to net neutrality principles.

Funding for AskRI

The State of Rhode Island provides Rhode Islanders, young and old, with online access to research databases, business resources, language learning tools, and encyclopedias through AskRI.org, created and funded by the Statewide Reference Resource Center grant (RIGL §29-6-9). In 2017, state budget constraints required that the grant be reduced by $300,000, nearly one-third of the total allocated. Consequently, statewide access to online homework help (via the Tutor.com service) for students was eliminated. Several public libraries purchased subscriptions to Tutor.com after state funding was lost, further straining municipal budgets. The only genealogy research database available statewide was also lost due to these budget constraints. Restoration of these funds could be used to make critical digital content available to library users during the pandemic.

Importance of School Librarians

School librarians contribute to improved student achievement. More than 60 studies across the country have shown a correlation between professionally staffed school libraries and higher student achievement. Certified school librarians select technology and resources that are aligned to the curriculum, help students select reading materials, and collaborate with teachers to create authentic learning experiences that challenge students to think, share, create, and grow. RILA has made significant progress working with School Librarians of Rhode Island (SLRI) and the Rhode Island Department of Education (RIDE) to approve the American Association of School Librarians (AASL) Standards for School Librarians statewide and supports continuing that work with a target of Fall 2021 for adoption. RILA also supports changes to the Rhode Island Basic Education Plan or legislation that would require certified school librarians in every school receiving education funding from the state of Rhode Island.

Ebooks & Licenses

Publishers have the ability to cut libraries out of the ebook marketplace simply by refusing to sell to them. This severely limits libraries’ ability to offer ebooks to patrons who rely on the library for literature and information. RILA supports the re-introduction of the 2020 bill (S2773) that requires any publisher who licenses electronic books and digital audiobooks to the general public (consumer) in Rhode Island to also offer such licenses to libraries in the state on comparable terms.

New

The committee is also tracking H5148, which calls for the creation of a Rhode Island Broadband Development Plan and a Rhode Island Broadband Council. Rhode Island is one of only two states that do not have a Broadband Coordinator or other entity coordinating broadband efforts and the only New England state without one. This bill was introduced last year without librarian representation on the Council and did not pass. This year, we worked with the sponsor to have a librarian as a member of the proposed Council. RILA supports this bill and will advocate for its passage.

We are also tracking bills focused on public records, open meetings, harassment in the workplace, and minimum wage increases. These bills, although not specifically about libraries, could impact library operations.

For more information about RILA’s legislative work please visit: https://cqrcengage.com/alari/?0

Ed Garcia

Chair, Legislative Action Committee

Rhode Island’s Historic Newspapers Now Available to Search on Library of Congress’ Chronicling America Website

Sat, 06 Feb 2021 17:16:00 GMT

Providence Public Library (PPL) and the Rhode Island Historical Society (RIHS) have announced that the first batch of Rhode Island’s historic newspapers digitized through a National Digital Newspaper Program (NDNP) grant are now freely available for researchers via the Library of Congress’ Chronicling America site.

In 2019, the two organizations were awarded a $250,000 NDNP grant from the National Endowment for the Humanities and the Library of Congress to digitize historic newspapers and make them available via Chronicling America for the first time. The NDNP supports the creation of a national, digital resource of historically significant newspapers published between 1690 and 1963, from all states and U.S. territories. PPL and RIHS have committed to digitizing more than 50,000 pages of historic newspaper content by August 2021.

The project funds were awarded following a letter of support by Senator Jack Reed, who noted the RIHS’s remarkable historical collection of microfilm reels of 314 Rhode Island newspaper titles that ceased publication prior to 1923 but remained unavailable for research. The grant funding will enable PPL, in partnership with the RIHS, to complete a full inventory of master microfilm reels, digitize at least 100,000 pages, and market and promote these digital resources to the broader community.

While additional titles will become available as the project is ongoing, this first batch includes almost 9,000 pages from:

Herald of the Times (1830-1856)
Literary Cadet and Rhode-Island Statesman; Literary Cadet and Saturday Evening Bulletin (1826-1829)
The Literary Echo; The Literary Echo & Pawcatuck Advertiser; Westerly Echo & Pawcatuck Advertiser (1851-1858)
Newport Gazette (1777-1779)
The Northern Star; The Northern Star and Warren and Bristol Gazette; The Northern Star and Constitutionalist; Northern Star, Farmer & Mechanics Advocate; Rhode Island Constitutionalist (1826-1855)
The Pioneer Woman’s Advocate (1852-1853)

The addition of the Newport Gazette brings the earliest published newspaper to be included in Chronicling America to date. The paper was published by British forces occupying Newport using the printing press of Solomon Southwick. Southwick was the printer of the pro-Revolutionary Newport Mercury and had buried his press in an effort to keep it out of enemy hands. Despite his efforts, British forces found and dug up the press and used it to print their own paper.

In addition, the first batch includes other titles of interest, such as The Pioneer Woman’s Advocate, published by Miss Anna Spence in Providence and which advocated for suffrage and women’s rights during the 1850s; The Literary Echo & Pawcatuck Advertiser published in the southern coastal community of Westerly and covering parts of southeasten Connecticut; and The Northern Star and Warren and Bristol Gazette out of the port town of Warren in the early 19th Century as it transformed from an economy built on the Atlantic Slave Trade. Prior to this award, many of these newspapers were only available on microfilm at the RIHS and required researchers to use them in person. Now available online, they are open electronically to researchers across the world and in context with other papers from across the country.

“The newspapers we’re digitizing are among the most valuable resources available for researchers, scholars, and anyone curious about history,” said Jordan Goffin, Head Curator of Collections at PPL. “We’re very excited that we can finally bring them to the public free of charge, as well as for another opportunity to collaborate with our colleagues at the Rhode Island Historical Society.”

“Our delight in this project cannot be overstated. It is the culmination of an effort to make these newspapers accessible since the 1950s, when the RIHS began microfilming them. This is one of the purest ways in which we fulfill our mission to share Rhode Island's past.” said Richard J. Ring, Deputy Executive Director for Collections and Interpretation at RIHS. “We are off to a promising start in this partnership with Providence Public Library and truly appreciative of the support of the Library of Congress.”

A New Tradition Begins at the East Providence Public Library

Sat, 06 Feb 2021 16:09:45 GMT

Looking for a way to spread cheer during the holiday season, the East Providence Public Library staff joyfully hit the road to sing carols in the community. The year had been challenging for so many. Patrons missed coming to programs at the library and the staff missed their patrons. Spreading some good, old-fashioned holiday cheer seemed like a sweet and simple way to bring the library out into the community.

A group of library employees (and some of their family members) volunteered their time to sing during one afternoon and one evening in the week before Christmas. Two weeks before, Public Services Librarian Michelle Perry posted a flyer and sign-up sheet to the library’s Facebook page and the response was immediate. Patrons were delighted, grateful, and excited for this event. Some scheduled visits for elderly and homebound relatives. Another wanted to put a smile on the face of a loved one battling cancer. And still another asked if the staff would sing outdoors at a nursing home. On the first day, the carolers made their last stop at the mayor’s home. The mayor was so thrilled that he did a live Facebook video of the carolers and introduced each library staff person to his audience. His video, which was also posted to the City of East Providence’s Facebook page, has since had close to 6,000 views and generated over 50 comments.

Calling themselves the Lyrical Librarians, staff visited 15 households scheduling visits 15 to 30 minutes apart. Michelle planned the stops, organizing them geographically from one end of the city to another. Each caroler received a list and a map to download to their phone as well as lyrics to 10 or so carols. Given the cold (and their voices), the singers quickly learned it best to stick to the same four or five songs. Due to the pandemic, each masked staff member traveled separately so parking could be tricky on smaller streets. The evening event also made it difficult to see, but Michelle provided the carolers with battery-lit Christmas necklaces and headbands and Santa hats, and she came dressed as a Christmas tree!

At one of the stops, neighbors walking their dogs stopped to listen and began to sing along. Other neighbors came out to their porches and joined the physically distanced fun. In times of such uncertainty, it was wonderful to see people singing and dancing and safely enjoying the moment. Library staff with the tag line "we don't claim to sound good, but we guarantee fun!” made it happen, and, for that, both patrons and staff shared very special holiday memories. A new tradition begins.

Professional Development Opportunity: Facilitation Training for Learning Circles

Mon, 04 Jan 2021 18:34:30 GMT

RILA is partnering with Peer 2 Peer University to offer free facilitation training for Learning Circles—peer-led learning groups—and you are invited to join!

For more information on this initiative and to apply, please fill out this application. Applications are due by January 8, 2021.

In this virtual 5-part professional development training, experienced facilitators will share how to organize and support Learning Circles in your library, teach you how to hold productive conversations around sensitive topics, then support you as you run your first Learning Circle for library staff across Rhode Island based on the course How to Talk About Race. Best of all, you do not need to be an expert on any particular topic to be a facilitator.

The facilitator training is 5 weeks (One 90 minute session each week) and will take place the weeks of January 18 - February 15, 2021.

How To Talk About Race is a 4 week course and will be offered to the RI library community in April & May, 2021. Dates to be determined.

Learning facilitation skills is a great opportunity and member benefit for those RILA members who are looking to gain a professional edge. And, after you are trained, you can run Learning Circles in your library for your clientele. Many libraries are using the Learning Circle method (see past Los Angeles Public Library Learning Circles here).

For more information on this initiative and to apply, please fill out this application. Applications are due by January 8, 2021.

Learn more about learning circles: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EtGir9xG7Pw&ab_channel=P2PU

Videos:

What does a learning circle look like?

Tips for New Facilitators

Language:

Why are learning circles needed?

Intro to P2PU and learning circles

Regional Resource Sharing Conference Draws 200+ Participants

Wed, 09 Dec 2020 21:14:45 GMT

On Wednesday, November 18th, members of the Library of Rhode Island (LORI) Resource Sharing Working Group (RSWG), in collaboration with the state library agencies of Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island, presented "Sharing Visions: 2020 New England Resource Sharing Conference." The day-long virtual event was hosted on Warwick Public Library’s Zoom platform. Portions of the Conference were funded in part by the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act, administered by the Connecticut State Library (CSL).

Just over 200 unique logins were recorded, with peak attendance during the event reaching 155 simultaneous viewers. Registrations came in from 29 states, from as far west as California and Washington, as far south as Louisiana and Alabama, and from many places in between. One international attendee represented Mount Royal University Library in the Canadian city of Calgary. Almost half of the audience was composed of academic library staff, though all library types, consortium and state library agency staff, trustees, and vendors were also represented.

After a brief welcome by Conference host Zach Berger, Chair of the LORI RSWG, opening remarks were made by Karen Mellor, Chief of Library Services for the State of Rhode Island, and James Lonergan, Director of the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners (MBLC).

Keynote Speaker Trevor A. Dawes, Vice Provost for Libraries and Museums and the May Morris University Librarian at the University of Delaware, began his presentation with a moving reminder that the University was established on land recognized “as the traditional home of the Lenni-Lenape and Nanticoke tribal nations.” Dawes “express[ed] gratitude to the original caretakers of this land,” and encouraged Conference viewers to learn more about and build relationships with the Indigenous people in their own communities.

Dawes extended this powerful tribute by acknowledging the importance of the Black Lives Matter movement and requested a moment of silence to recognize the many Black and Brown lives lost to structural and systemic racism.

From this social and historical context, Dawes’ ensuing talk about the need for libraries to adapt to change, especially in the midst of a pandemic, was especially timely and touched upon many factors—including technology, workflow, organizational structure, anti-racism outreach, and leadership—that can contribute to the development of more effective and inclusive resource sharing models. Immediately following the keynote presentation, Berger interviewed Dawes, who also took questions from the audience.

Session 1 presenter Nettie Lagace, Associate Executive Director of the National Information Standards Organization (NISO), gave a talk on “Standards as Frameworks for Connection and Collaboration,” in which she presented an overview of what NISO is, the scope of its work, its organizational partners, and how its staff develops and adopts standards. Lagace included information about the many NISO Working Groups, including current projects to recommend practices for improving delivery of and access to digital content.

The second session featured Brad Bullis and Gail Hurley of CSL co-presenting with Amy Terlaga of Bibliomation on the use of FulfILLment open source software for interlibrary loan requests. The presenters explained the need for a transition to the new software, recent and future enhancements to interlibrary loan processes, and the impact of the pandemic on lending and borrowing in Connecticut.

Multiple panelists joined the Conference for Session 3, entitled “Project ReShare: A Community-Owned Resource Sharing System.” Sebastian Hammer and Kristen Wilson of Index Data co-presented with Jill Morris of the Pennsylvania Academic Library Consortium (PALCI) to talk about the “community of libraries, consortia, and companies that came together in 2018 to create a new resource sharing platform” called Project ReShare that is “co-owned and managed by its community of users and based on open standards and open technologies.” With a focus on the need for innovative development of resource sharing systems that meet patron expectations while factoring in issues of pricing, market consolidation, and library transformations, the panel discussed the Project ReShare model in depth and provided an inside look at the software interface. Hammer provided a first peek at ReShare's plans for a Controlled Digital Lending (CDL) module that would serve as a bridge between libraries' physical and electronic collections by managing digitized copies of print materials.

Session 4, entitled “Expanding Patron Identity: Issues, Options, and Opportunities,” was presented by Daniel “Dazza” Greenwood, a researcher at MIT Media Lab and Lecturer at Connection Science in the MIT School of Engineering. Greenwood, who is also the founder of CIVICS.com, spoke about the role of libraries as trusted civic institutions and the need to lower barriers to patron access through the creation of a civic identity that would simultaneously provide privacy protection.

The final session of the day was a multi-part look at the challenges of delivery sustainability by staff members of three New England state library agencies: Chaichin Chen from the Rhode Island Office of Library and information Services (OLIS); Dawn La Valle from CSL; and Janet McKenney from the Maine State Library (MSL). Each state’s funding and governance model, interlibrary loan volume, delivery logistics, and other factors were reviewed, and innovative approaches such as cost sharing, cooperative solutions, floating collections, and alternatives to delivery were discussed.

The day’s closing remarks were made by Maureen Sullivan, Interim State Librarian at CSL, and Berger.

The Sharing Visions Planning Committee, comprising Berger, Chen, La Valle, Scott Kehoe (Massachusetts Library System), Paul Kissman (MBLC), and Jana Stevenson (Director of Warwick Public Library), expressed great satisfaction with Conference turnout, speaker presentations, and overall logistics. “When we had to pivot because of the pandemic from an on-site venue [originally scheduled to occur at College of the Holy Cross in Worcester, Massachusetts] to a virtual one, we were initially overwhelmed by the prospect of managing such a large event across an entire day of sessions,” Berger said. “But things came together beautifully, and everyone involved seemed to get a lot of value from participating.”

Chen added, “The biggest takeaway for me is that we are better and stronger together. Conference attendance is a testament to librarians’ hunger for a high-level resource sharing program.”

Previous coverage of the Sharing Visions Conference was published in the October 2020 issue of the RILA Bulletin. Presenter resources and session recordings will be shared via the Conference website.

A Look Back As We Move Forward -- Cornucopia of RI: A Library Community of Color Hosts Mini Virtual Conference with Tracie D. Hall

Sat, 05 Dec 2020 16:08:49 GMT

Amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, Cornucopia of Rhode Island (CORI): A Library Community of Color and Section of the Rhode Island Library Association, presented its annual fall mini conference, "A Look Back As We Move Forward." on November 4, 2020 via Zoom. Over 60 librarians, library directors, and library staff throughout the Northeast registered for the 2-hour conference.

Tracie D. Hall, Executive Director, American Library Association (image right) was the featured speaker. Tracie suggested that Rhode Island library directors to be creative and financially support library students of color as they pursue their Master’s degree, as the University of Rhode Island no longer has a grant for the Prism Program. Tracie discussed in detail Race, Redlining and Resistance: Libraries Making of the Next Civil Rights Movement. She stated that as librarians we could have a passive or proactive attitude toward red lining, as she highlighted today’s information poverty with various examples. Ms. Hall stated that she believes “information access is a public health issue” and that library services must exist beyond library buildings. Tracie was passionate about universal broadband and the privileged majority, indicating that this is a case of urgency.

Keith Stokes, Vice President of the 1696 Heritage Group, moderated the conference. Mr. Stokes is a lecturer with expertise in early African and Jewish American history and frequently appears on national historical programs.

Karen Mellor, Chief of Library Services for Rhode Island's Office of Library & Information Services, acknowledged the many contributions of Cornucopia to the RI library community as she welcomed Tracie to Rhode Island.

CORI would like to thank everyone who attended this year’s annual fall mini conference during these challenging days. A special thank you to Julie Holden, President of RILA, and Dymond Bush, 2020-2021 American Library Association Spectrum Scholar, for their assistance and technical skills.

For additional information about CORI, visit their blog: http://cornucopiaofri.blogspot.com/

Public Librarians Sharpen Skills to Develop Virtual Programming for Adults

Sat, 05 Dec 2020 15:50:07 GMT

Thanks to funding from the Rhode Island Office of Library and Information Services (OLIS), several public librarians from around the state recently attended a 4-week online course called "Creating Virtual Programs for Adults." The class was facilitated by nonprofit consortium Infopeople and was taught by Janie Hermann, the Public Programming Librarian at the Princeton (New Jersey) Public Library. Hermann is also the Chair of the American Library Association’s Programming Librarian Interest Group.

Rhode Island library staff who completed the course were Zach Berger of Cranston, Melissa Chiavaroli of Cumberland, Britta Obertello of South Kingstown, Kyera Shea of Rogers Free Library, and Lee Smith of Mount Pleasant.

The above participants joined library staff from all over the country in synchronous meetings during the first and third weeks of the course to discuss an overview of virtual programming and how to host and market online programs, respectively. During the second week, participants worked asynchronously to explore a variety of digital delivery platforms. The final week was devoted to learning how to evaluate the success of online library offerings.

To earn credit for course completion, participants attended the two synchronous class meetings, completed assigned activities, and interacted with fellow students in online discussion forums. Activities included brainstorming new program ideas, matching ideas with the best virtual platform, applying marketing strategies, developing a program planning worksheet, and designing program evaluations. Students also were assigned various videos to watch and articles to read.

Hermann, whose own library held 275 virtual adult programs from March through the end of August, brought a wealth of experience to her role as instructor. She stressed the importance of using data to tell stories about library programming and emphasized how crucial it is to measure both quantitative and qualitative elements when evaluating a program’s success.

The course was a valuable experience for the Rhode Island participants, all of whom are working on implementing what they’ve learned. The group shared highlights of their newly acquired knowledge during an OLIS Continuing Education (CE) Adult Services Roundtable session on November 12. A recording of the discussion can be viewed using this passcode: 4.r?LL75

Nicolette Baffoni, the OLIS Learning & Community Engagement Coordinator, served as liaison between the Rhode Island attendees and the Infopeople consortium and acknowledged that “this has been a disruptive and difficult time” for libraries to offer ongoing programming during a pandemic. The timing of the course offering was fortuitous. “The OLIS CE team has been looking for ways to offer more in-depth learning opportunities for librarians and library staff based on feedback we’ve gotten from the RI library community,” Baffoni said. “In the end, attendees of both the course and the follow-up session were able to get some new ideas, access high-quality resources, and hopefully build a bit of confidence in this new, now necessary, way of offering programs. I hope this is a model OLIS will be able to continue exploring, as it was a win all around.”

Why YouTube Matters to Westerly Library and Wilcox Park!

Sat, 05 Dec 2020 15:08:23 GMT

by Monica Brennan, MLIS
Head of Youth Services at Westerly Library and Wilcox Park

If you are anything like me, your 2020 Thanksgiving Day started with the Red Titan Macy’s Day balloon capturing your heart. Perhaps, unlike many of you, though, I am a devoted, old-school Red Titan super fan! I am also a super fan of Ryan, the nine-year-old, multi-millionaire YouTube toy influencer who inspired the creation of Red Titan. Of course, you probably know what I am going to write next: Ryan and his superhero doppelganger, Red Titan, have over 40 billion views on YouTube! WOW!

The Westerly Library and Wilcox Park YouTube channel has yet to hit 40 billion views, but here are three reasons why YouTube matters to Westerly Library and Wilcox Park:

Our patrons have viewed our 100+ YouTube programs over 4,000 times. Based on our community surveys during the pandemic, our patrons wanted engaging content and programs that they could view on their time. YouTube met this goal.
Our community partners, including emergency responders, government officials, educators, faith leaders, trustees, friends of the library, library staff, and library volunteers, have all collaborated on creating compelling, fun, and informational programming content for our community. YouTube empowered our community’s voice.
Our YouTube content has inspired our community to be more mindful, to create beautiful crafts, to learn new professional skills, to imagine new ways to communicate, and to engage with literature and nature in new and unconventional ways. YouTube has spread positivity and hope in a dark, lonely, and challenging time.

Every single one of our YouTube videos tells its own wonderful and creative story. However proud I am of these YouTube videos, I am exponentially more proud of my staff and coworkers’ thoughtful, collaborative work that has made these videos possible! The staff at Westerly Library and Wilcox Park have come together to create YouTube content to meet our community’s unique wants and needs. The YouTube platform has enabled us to fulfill our association’s mission and vision statements, listed below, throughout this exhausting pandemic.

Mission: The mission of the Memorial and Library Association is to strengthen community and enrich lives by stimulating intellect and sparking imagination through access to literature, information, technology, nature, and the arts.

Vision: Westerly Library and Wilcox Park strives to be a premier intellectual, cultural, and botanical asset for the region.

Perhaps the Westerly Library and Wilcox Park YouTube will never reach Ryan and Red Titan’s 40 billion views, but it has already delighted, inspired, and engaged thousands within our community! So, during this time of thanksgiving, we are grateful to have YouTube to marry our staff’s creative talents with the power of the internet.

Spotlighted below are some of our favorite Westerly Library and Wilcox Park YouTube videos:

The Runaway Bunny: Wilcox Park Sensory Stroll
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Cp8CUPEsXU
Virtual Tree Lighting
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ufEUnI5JGeM
Folk-Tales: Monica Brennan
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3EN-wTiOusc
Wreath Workshop!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RPnV2Oc504o
Halloween Hop Obstacle Course
https://youtu.be/sxM_8X-ZGIM
Animation Nation: How to Make a Brick Film
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EZQynaMMWcc
Community Hero Storytime with Senator Dennis Algiere
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3rmYwuOXY0M

RILA Endorses Ed Garcia for President of the American Library Association

Tue, 24 Nov 2020 19:35:44 GMT

The Rhode Island Library Association Executive Board is pleased to endorse Ed Garcia for President of the American Library Association.

Ed has been a leader in our organization for many years. As chair of our Legislative Action Committee, he has presented testimony at the State House, written bills, and secured key meetings with legislative leadership, the governor, and the Department of Education on important issues, such as state aid to libraries and support of school librarians. Ed has represented Rhode Island on a national level, working with our congressional delegation and as a regular attendee for National Library Legislative Day.

Ed is an informed, capable, and caring library leader, and will be a positive and visionary ALA president.

The 2020-2021 RILA Executive Board

Rhode Island Library Association Awards Librarians, Library Professionals, and Library Supporters

Mon, 26 Oct 2020 18:29:42 GMT

PRESS RELEASE

Rhode Island Library Association Awards Librarians, Library Professionals, and Library Supporters

The Rhode Island Library Association (RILA) presented its annual awards at the RILA Annual Conference, which was held virtually on Thursday, May 28th, through Friday, May 29th, 2020 on Zoom. The theme for the conference was “Think Outside the Books,” and the recipients of this year’s awards exemplify the library community’s commitment to finding creative solutions to contemporary challenges.

“We had hoped to hold an in-person ceremony at some point to recognize the achievements of our award winners,” said RILA president Julie Holden, “but it might be many more months before we can do so. We want to formally congratulate this year’s recipients with the hope that we will be able to celebrate in person at a later date.”

The 2020 RILA Award winners are:

Library Champion Award: Ida D. McGhee (retired) founder of Cornucopia of RI (CORI), a library community of color, and advocate for the power of libraries to change our world.
Outstanding Librarian Award: Jana Stevenson, Director of Warwick Public Library.
Outstanding Library Paraprofessional Award: Emily Greene, Head of Interlibrary Loan at the University of Rhode Island’s Robert L. Carothers Library.
Trustee of the Year Award: Stephen Cicilline, Chair of the Greenville Public Library Board of Trustees.
Meritorious Friend of the Library Award: Michelle Lefort, for her volunteer work at Primrose Hill School Library, Hampden Meadows School Library, Barrington Middle School Library, and Barrington Public Library.
Special Thanks to Carla Weiss (Rhode Island College, retired) and Jim Kinnie (University of Rhode Island, retired) for their decades of service leading RILA’s Intellectual Freedom Committee. Through the years, Carla and Jim have led RILA in championing the value of intellectual freedom in addressing the Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA), the USA PATRIOT Act, banned books, patron privacy and confidentiality, and net neutrality.

The Rhode Island Library Association is a professional organization that serves its members through career development, education, advocacy, networking partnerships, and legislative action.

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RILA members can attend NYLA's 2020 Conference for membership prices!

Sun, 11 Oct 2020 18:10:15 GMT

The New York Library Association virtual conference is extending member pricing to Rhode Island. For every RILA member who registers by Oct. 31st, RILA will receive 50% of your registration fee.

Click here to register. Use the code "PROVIDENCE" to register.

Upcoming Regional Conference Coordinated by LORI Resource Sharing Working Group

Sat, 03 Oct 2020 15:42:00 GMT

Free virtual event to examine visionary approaches to resource sharing

On November 18th, the Library of Rhode Island (LORI) Resource Sharing Working Group, in partnership with the state library agencies of Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island, presents a day-long, free, virtual conference to bring together library staff from all over New England to learn about the future of resource sharing.

The event, which is called "Sharing Visions" and kicks off at 9:00am, features keynote speaker Trevor A. Dawes, Vice Provost for Libraries and Museums and the May Morris University Librarian at the University of Delaware. Dawes will speak about the changing landscape of resource sharing and examine its future role as an integral part of library services.

In other sessions, Nettie Lagace of the National Information Standards Organization (NISO) will examine how standards can support resource sharing partnerships. A team from Connecticut State Library will discuss the implementation of its Evergreen FulfILLment project. Sebastian Hammer, Co-Founder and President of Index Data, will speak about Project ReShare, a community-owned resource sharing system. Hammer will be joined by Jill Morris, the Executive Director of PALCI, the Pennsylvania Academic Library Consortium, and Kristen Wilson, Project Manager and Business Analyst at Index Data. Dazza Greenwood of the MIT Media Lab will share insights about patron identity management.

The day will close with a presentation on delivery sustainability, with remarks by Chaichin Chen of the Rhode Island Office of Library and Information Services, Dawn LaValle of Connecticut State Library, and Janet McKenney of Maine State Library.

Staff from all library types are invited to participate. For more information and to register, please visit the conference web page.

The Rhode Island COVID-19 Archive

Sat, 03 Oct 2020 15:23:30 GMT

The Rhode Island COVID-19 Archive is a public digital archive created and maintained by the Providence Public Library and the Rhode Island Historical Society in response to the COVID-19 public health crisis.

Created in March 2020, during the beginning of our state’s stay-at-home orders, the digital archive is composed of submissions from Rhode Islanders from all walks of life documenting and sharing their lived experiences during the pandemic. The archive strives to represent the diversity of experiences throughout our state; we believe that every person in our community has something of value to contribute to this documented history, and that we are empowered by telling our many stories. We’re particularly interested in views that may be otherwise lost, obscured, or ignored in news media accounts, press releases, and government advisories.

The archive is built on an Omeka platform, and uses a number of stock and slightly modified plugins, along with a customized theme. Project team members focus on different aspects of the archive and its operation (technology, cataloging and metadata, outreach, and/or education) based on their interests and skill sets.

We’re happy to accept contributions to the archive from librarians and library users across the state, and also welcome submissions of collections from individuals or groups. Some examples of collections could include:

Classroom assignments
Neighborhood support efforts
Artistic & creative projects
Non-profit organizational responses
Social media groups

We encourage RILA members to contact us if they have questions about the archive or ideas about potential collaborations.

RILINK Virtual Summer Conference Sets Standard for Future Sessions

Fri, 14 Aug 2020 14:43:19 GMT

Pandemic pivot does not dampen enthusiasm or participation

The Rhode Island Library Information Network for Kids (RILINK), the statewide consortium of K-12 school libraries, held its twelfth annual conference in July—this time with a virtual twist. The unusual circumstances of the coronavirus pandemic necessitated either cancelling the event entirely or switching to an exclusively online platform. The former option was out of the question, and RILINK staff felt ready to handle the challenges of the latter.

With great thanks to the RILA Conference Committee for lending training materials and providing advance support and guidance, RILINK presented “Standard Bearer: Library to Classroom” on July 14, 15, and 16. The event was free to all, featured keynote speakers and 20 sessions, and was broadcast using Zoom.

Professor Mary Moen of the University of Rhode Island’s Graduate School of Library and Information Studies (GSLIS) joined librarian Marianne Mirando of Westerly High School to present a keynote address that introduced attendees to the new Rhode Island School Library Curriculum Guide.

Marianne Mirando co-presents the keynote session on July 14

According to Moen and Mirando, the development and implementation of the Guide was 4 years in the making and involved a committee of several School Librarians of Rhode Island (SLRI) members. Taking its foundation (with permission) from similar work done in New York, the Rhode Island School Library Curriculum is “aligned with the 2018 AASL National School Library Standards and includes grade level benchmarks, lesson plan ideas and graphic organizer assessments.” Anchor Standards and Indicators establish a framework for guiding school librarians through the curriculum and scaffolding information literacy and research instruction across all grade levels.

The Rhode Island School Library Curriculum Guide is hosted on the RILINK Schools site and may be viewed at guides.rilinkschools.org/riproject.

Other conference presenters included school and public librarians and library staff, members of AskRI and the Rhode Island Office of Library and Information Services (OLIS), professional consultants, and vendors. Topics included using social media for library advocacy, capturing library usage data, navigating Google Classroom, and connecting students with #OwnVoices fantasy novels. Members of the Rhode Island Children’s, Middle School, and Teen Book Award Committees (RICBA, RIMSBA, and RITBA, respectively) presented the latest nominees and award-winning titles. RILINK staff offered a variety of sessions on consortium member benefits and services.

From “Advocating for the Library with Social Media”

Initial conference feedback was very positive, and RILINK anticipates increased demand for future virtual sessions. Jackie Lamoureux, one of RILINK’s Member Services Librarians, stated that she “missed personally meeting and networking with colleagues [but that] the virtual conference format had a lot going for it. More people were able to attend, and presenters didn’t have any travel issues.” Donna Good, RILINK’s eResources specialist, was impressed that “through the monitoring of the invaluable 'Chat' [feature in Zoom], we were able to observe the participants' enthusiastic comments, questions, sharing, and the resulting flow of their creative juices.”

Attendees had similarly enthusiastic remarks about both conference topics and the virtual platform, with one who stated that “the Zoom conference was the next best thing to a live conference,” and another who “felt very comfortable with [the technology] and might even prefer this to an in-person conference in the future.”

Sharon Webster, who served as the primary conference project manager and is RILINK’s Professional Learning and Technology Support Specialist, was energized by the "positive feedback from participants” and pointed out that “the almost flawless execution of our first virtual conference is testament to the hard work of the entire RILINK team."

View complete RILINK Summer Conference 2020 details at guides.rilink.org/sc2020.

Two School Librarians Look Ahead to Servicing Students

Fri, 07 Aug 2020 18:12:51 GMT

by Stephanie Mills

School librarians are no stranger to collaborating with teachers within their buildings, but this past school year found them relying on their professional colleagues for ideas. When students and teachers went to distance learning, school librarians immediately tapped into their creativity to continue offering services to students in different ways. From driving house to house to deliver books, as Meredith Moore did, to creating fun Tik Toks to keep their students entertained (we are looking at you, Tasha White), school librarians tried to keep their students at the heart of their plans.

As a giant question mark looms over the upcoming school year, Melanie Roy and Stephanie Mills, both middle school librarians, have been brainstorming ideas for how to continue to meet the needs of students. Many schools have already said that traditional library visits will not be allowed. Here’s a list of what they hope to accomplish this year!

Collaborate with our incredible public librarians to ensure we are providing every possible opportunity to our patrons.
Hold a public library card application drive to promote that a library card is an essential “back to school” supply, just like a pen or pencil! Also, provide a link to apply online as another viable option for families. Ask our faculty to put a “public library card” on their back-to-school supply list they provide to students and families.
Plan an online orientation for students, with a focus on accessing digital platforms for reading and research. What we realized in the Spring is that creating short videos for students, teachers, and families to access is just GOOD teaching practice. Plan a place to store these videos for later use by our patrons - preferably on our library websites.
Devise a weekly system to provide readers with book recommendations. Promote ebooks and audiobooks, particularly through BookLynx and Overdrive as a priority. We are unsure about ILL delivery, so finding ways to get books we do not have in the hands of our readers is of utmost importance.
Curate and share up-to-date resources available to students, teachers, and families as well as video tutorials on our library websites. Create a library Google Classroom students and staff can access for login information that cannot be posted publicly.
Devise creative ways to get books into readers’ hands - pod bins for 6 weeks, longer patron checkouts, deliver and pick up books at homerooms.
Be good models of copyright adherence for students and staff by sharing Kiera Parrott’s SLJ Publisher Directory widely, in order to properly implement online read alouds for our students. Perhaps create a video about copyright adherence for our staff to access as well.
Provide “Reader’s Advisory” via a Google Form. While students may be able to use RICAT to log in and place a hold on a specific title, many students will still need to be guided to new reading choices. Having an open-ended Google Form allows students to give examples of books and authors they have enjoyed or topics they would like to know more about, giving the librarian more opportunities to provide personalized titles. Also, be sure to promote AskRI.org’s NoveList to teach students how to advocate for themselves.
Post photos of books and book displays to school social media to provide as many opportunities as possible for our patrons to virtually “browse” the library.
Create ways to keep students engaged in the content-fun distractions like trivia sent out in Google Classroom, “Where’s Waldo” pictures with your Bitmoji hidden, weekly resources featured, ask for student input to establish weekly hashtags to engage the larger community.
Provide online office hours to give staff and students opportunities to see you and learn outside of regular lessons.
Establish a weekly time for students who would normally want to chat about books, life, etc. (your library regulars) a time to Zoom and connect. Create a shared Google Slideshow that they can add book recommendations to and refer back to later for ideas. Consider a blog for students (Thanks, Heidi Blais!) to submit book recommendations! (Here's a middle school example).
Above all, try to think of this as “one difficult year.” It’s easy to get overwhelmed by the uncertainty and the knowledge that we aren’t able to teach how we normally do. However, librarians are always a mix of creativity and ingenuity, and this can be a year to show all our stakeholders that we can shine, even in the face of adversity.

Former Peace Corps Volunteer Returns to the Philippines and the Library She Established There

Sat, 25 Jul 2020 15:08:20 GMT

By Juliann Cerrito

I had a simple objective: to revisit the village where I was a Peace Corps volunteer and, perhaps, to see if the library I created still existed and to find a former co-teacher or two. Was it that difficult? Apparently, yes, it was.

Thirty-seven years ago, I was a senior in college and pondering my future after graduation. A small poster in Emerson Hall at Western New England College caught my attention. It was for the Peace Corps, and I decided to inquire. I ended up applying and, boy, what a process! It took 7 months to receive an acceptance letter. I departed in September 1984 for San Diego, then Manila. I then spent 2½ years living and working in the Philippines; I met my husband there.

After a 3-month training, I ended up in a simple town where rice and corn were its main crops. First I reported to the rural health unit in town, and then I made my way from there. Health educators in the Peace Corps have no job descriptions, and the job is as “loosey-goosey” as it comes. I met the doctor that led the clinic, and she was lovely. I also met her midwives and health technicians. Crying babies, frail elderly folks, and the like lined the room on sturdy wooden benches. I noticed that people would show up at 8:00 am, hoping the doctor would arrive at 9:00 am, only to finally be seen by 1:00 pm. Many times, they waited until late in the afternoon to be seen. There was a carinderia (a small outdoor restaurant) outside the clinic where patients and staff could get cold drinks and lunch.

I began visiting nearby barrios with the midwives, hoping one would catch my interest and had a need I could fill. I knew I would not stay in town and live the rather luxurious lifestyle of color TV and maid service that I had in the home I was then occupying. I knew the Peace Corps meant sacrifice and aiding others. I finally chose a village, called Aromin, which was led by a woman and was located in a corn-growing region. The village was reachable by public transport—though “transport” meant 25 minutes in a jeep, then a boat ride across the river, then 1 hour on foot…in the hot sun! I did use a parasol. The village was very poor and didn’t have electricity or running water at that time. My home, which was built for me, was constructed of bamboo and had a grass roof. Beautiful as it was, it was fragile and blew away in a typhoon about 20 years ago.

Very slowly, I assessed the needs of the community and, as a health volunteer, I determined that dental education in the elementary school and basic health classes at the high school would be my objectives. In addition, I taught mothers’ classes on Saturday, which included dental care, nutrition, family planning, and potable water projects. The high school was one village over and, after speaking to the principal, we agreed I would teach the juniors and seniors three times per week, half in English and half in Tagalog (the medium of instruction in the Philippines). I had my own lingua franca, if you will. The school had a tin roof and no doors. Oftentimes, I would sweat profusely trying to teach and, yes, wonder why I was there.

Children in Aromin

My first observation was that there was no library anywhere. I’m not sure why I was surprised. The entire town did not have one; neither did the local university. The closest libraries were at the prestigious University of the Philippines and the Ateneo de la Philippines, two upper-crust schools. I had grown up privileged, but didn’t know it: my hometown in Rhode Island had a lovely library, as did the surrounding towns. I used to bike to the East Greenwich Public Library to be greeted by Mrs. Rice and Ms. McPartland. Laura Ingalls Wilder’s Little House books were my favorites. After being in the Philippines for 4 months, I learned that comic books were one of the only reading sources. The Manila Times was available and read in town, but it never made it out to the village. The paper was considered a luxury.

My peers were equally distressed to find out there was no library. After sharing resources with each other, we learned that the US Navy had a book sponsorship program. Books could be mailed to San Diego, and then the Navy would transport them overseas. I proceeded to ask friends and family to put together cartons of books they were not using and mail them out to California. They were happy to oblige. The Navy also contributed books.

Approximately 6 months later, a small truck arrived at the high school with many crates of books. It was extremely exciting. I was given a room in which to set up a library. It took a few days! My biggest concern was the security of the books, but I had to let that go. There was no way a building with few doors and no locks could keep a library safe. The rule was that students could read the books during the school period, before and after school, and during lunch. I had chosen elementary-level books for the collection. Although the local children and teens had only a basic knowledge of English, they still enjoyed the pictures and the challenge.

My contract expired in December 1986, and I headed home in January of 1987. I decided to return in 2020. My two sons and I had planned this trip for 9 months, and we planned to leave on March 3rd. We discussed the pandemic carefully ahead of time, but we decided to go through with the trip--my sons’ grandmother, Carmen, is 95 years old, and we did not know if we would ever see her again.

We were puzzled to find the JFK airport virtually empty. Our flight to Seoul was 75% empty, which was alarming as well. We arrived as the Philippines was experiencing the very early stages of the pandemic. Every store we visited had a temperature taker at the front door, and people were wearing masks. Patience was the only way to endure the visit.

One evening at Grandma Carmen’s home, there was a knock on the door. We opened it to find three local health officials. Rumors had circulated that foreigners were in town, and the officials wanted to ask us questions about our health and take our temperatures. It was odd, to say the least. We had a lengthy discussion and because I’d had a cold the week before, we were labeled “suspicious.” We were instructed to visit a hospital the next day for blood tests to see whether our white blood count was elevated; COVID-19 tests were not available.

This didn’t go over very well with me or my family. I wanted to proceed to my village the following day, not visit a local hospital. In fact, I was told I couldn’t visit my village. I was beside myself. The people in Aromin had planned an enormous party for me, because they hadn’t seen me in 33 years. The following day, we had to visit two hospitals to get the travel clearance we needed in order to go home the following week. The hospitals were basic, with no gloves and no COVID-19 tests. After getting clearance from hospital number two, the doctor asked to take photos. I thought that was odd. While the doctor took photos, I noticed a sign on the wall announcing that cleft palate surgery was now free and that next week was “Leprosy Prevention Week.” I was perplexed that leprosy was still a problem there. I was glad that cleft palate surgery was now free. What a difference between here and home.

Juliann and her Family Visiting the Hospital

After visiting the hospitals, my family was still considered “under suspicion,” but I was given permission to travel to Aromin. I went the next day, but was only able to stay for 4 hours. We had to leave the next morning for Manila, because the capital was closing in so many days and we would have missed our flight back to the United States.

I learned that the library I’d established no longer exists. All the books were taken into peoples’ homes; that is fine by me. There has never been another initiative in 33 years to develop another library. Think of this, and love your library.

RILA Statement on Anti-Racism

Fri, 05 Jun 2020 14:35:06 GMT

The Rhode Island Library Association (RILA) condemns the actions of police brutality in Minneapolis that led to the horrific death of George Floyd, and stands with the Black Caucus of the American Library Association (BCALA) and the American Library Association (ALA) in condemning violence and racism towards black people and all people of color. For far too long, we have witnessed the destruction of lives and communities at the hands of those who feel that people’s skin color determines their worth.

We condemn the persistent threats and systemic oppression that people of color face daily in this country and around the world.

We affirm libraries as champions of democracy and a free society and will continue to stand up, with, and for people of color in our profession and in our community.

RILA believes in advocacy, collaboration, diversity, equity, inclusion, equal access for all, and intellectual freedom.

RILA commits to work towards anti-racist education and will use our collective voice to speak against biased behaviors that limit the rights of people of color to equitable treatment in local, state, and national policies. In the darkness, we will bring the light.

The RILA Executive Board

The Rhode Island Library Association is a member organization and includes the following sections: Cornucopia of Rhode Island (CORI), a library community of color, the Coalition of Library Advocates (COLA), and the School Librarians of Rhode Island (SLRI).

Warwick Public Library Children’s Staff Gets Creative

Mon, 11 May 2020 19:16:50 GMT

Warwick Public Library Children’s Staff Gets Creative

What Happens When Children’s Librarians Are Put on a Stay-at-Home Order?

Members of the Warwick Public Library (WPL) Children’s Department have used their natural creativity to reimagine how to deliver vital programs and services to their patrons during the coronavirus pandemic. Their revamp of the Kids Page on the Library’s website was created by Ellen O’Brien, Children’s Department Manager, and staff members Pam Miech, Christine Kayal, Andrea Hutnak, and Corey Paul, and features several ways that children and their families can stay connected to all that WPL has to offer even while staying at home.

In addition to recorded story times and Zoom book group meetings, the Children’s Librarians have brainstormed other activities that do not revolve around screen time. The Spring Reading Program started on April 1 and uses the Beanstack reading program tool. In addition to reading, participants are encouraged to complete various activities to earn badges. So far, 303 participants of all ages have logged over 28,000 minutes of reading and activities. Participation is not limited to just Warwick residents—interested patrons from all over the state may join in.

This summer, WPL will be using Beanstack in place of its usual Summer Reading Program. Activities will include visiting various historical sites in the city, performing Daily Acts of Kindness, and finding different ways to enjoy a book, such as reading to family members or pets. Department Manager O’Brien is working with the Warwick School Department to train teachers on using Beanstack for summer learning assignments.

“Librarians are naturally resourceful and masters at finding the tools they need to provide the best possible services to patrons,” says Jana Stevenson, WPL Deputy Director. “There are many valuable resources online, but our librarians are also working to provide access to experiences offline. As we move forward to plan for a Summer Reading Program that will be like no other, I am confident the librarians of Rhode Island will provide a reprieve in a time of chaos.”

Rhode Island Libraries Celebrate National Library Week, April 19-25, 2020, Provide Innovative Services in Response to COVID-19

Mon, 20 Apr 2020 17:27:45 GMT

The Rhode Island Library Association highlights the work done libraries that continue to serve their communities

The Rhode Island Library Association (RILA) will virtually celebrate Rhode Island libraries’ innovative responses to continue to meet community needs while protecting staff and patrons during COVID-19 as part of the American Library Association’s National Library Week, April 19–25, 2020.

National Library Week is a time to highlight the valuable role libraries, librarians, and library workers play in transforming lives and strengthening communities. While nearly all Rhode Island libraries are closed to the public, library workers continue to provide services in inspiring ways. This year’s national theme was originally “Find your place at the library,” but due to the global pandemic, the American Library Association decided to flip the wording on the theme to “Find the library at your place.”

“Typically, RILA celebrates National Library Week with Rhode Island Library Day, a day-long celebration that includes special events and fine forgiveness,” said Julie Holden, president of the Rhode Island Library Association. “This year, we are celebrating the incredible amount of online activities and virtual services that library staff are providing as a way to connect to the public during this time of social isolation.”

RILA will promote several programs and activities from libraries throughout the week using the hashtag #RILibraryWeek2020 on social media. These activities include live story times, sing-a-longs, virtual book club chats, writing sprints, and senior social hours. Libraries across the state have been promoting all the digital resources that are available from home to Rhode Island residents, some of which are accessible without a library card. In addition, many library staff are hard at work using their maker talents to create personal protective equipment needed during COVID-19.

Rhode Island residents can learn about upcoming library events through a centralized calendar on the Office of Library and Information Service’s website: https://olis-ri.libcal.com/calendar/rilibrary/ or by following RILA on Twitter and Facebook @rilibraries.

The Rhode Island Library Association is a professional organization that serves its members through career development, education, advocacy, networking partnerships, and legislative action. RILA believes in:

• Advocacy

• Collaboration

• Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

• Equal Access for All

• Intellectual Freedom

LIBRARIANS RAISE THEIR VOICE AGAINST BIG PUBLISHING’S UNFAIR, UNCONSTITUTIONAL, ANTI-COMPETITIVE E-BOOK POLICY

Tue, 03 Mar 2020 18:54:50 GMT

Rhode Island Library Association warns that Big Publishing’s e-book restrictions disproportionately threaten Rhode Island library users’ ability to access new releases, sets a dangerous precedent of exclusion

CRANSTON, RI – The Rhode Island Library Association (RILA), the American Library Association, local neighborhood librarians, and Rhode Island library patrons gathered today at Cranston Central Library to speak up against Big Publishing’s unfair, unconstitutional, and anti-competitive practices that limit libraries’ ability to provide residents, taxpayers, and library patrons with full access to new publications.

“Library support in our state is high, and our patrons know the intrinsic value of being able to freely access books, movies, music, high-speed internet, educational classes, cultural programs, and more. Rhode Islanders particularly value our access to e-books,” said RILA President and Cranston Assistant Library Director Julie Holden. “When Big Publishing blocks libraries from buying e-books, they’re obstructing Rhode Islanders’ constitutional right to public libraries. Librarians are speaking up loudly against these unfair and unconstitutional practices, and we urge Rhode Island elected leaders to take action that forces Macmillan and Big Publishing to end their anti-library and anti-competitive practices.”

Senator Mark McKenney (District 30 – Warwick) has filed legislation that would prohibit publishers setting any limits on the number of e-book and audiobook licenses a library can purchase.

“The bill I have filed simply requires publishing houses to offer libraries reasonable terms on electronic books and digital audio books. No more, no less,” said Rhode Island State Senator Mark McKenney. “Specifically, it precludes a publisher from limiting the number of e-book licenses libraries can obtain when new books come out. Libraries should be able to get these books in the same way as the public. It’s that simple.”

In November 2019, Macmillan Publishers put in place a new policy limiting libraries’ ability to purchase new e-books. Macmillan now sells only one copy of a newly released e-book title per library system. After eight weeks, libraries may purchase unlimited copies of the e-book for a two-year license. Because Rhode Island provides e-books to libraries through the Ocean State Library consortium, that means Macmillan limits one copy of a new e-book for the first eight weeks after publication for the entire state.

“The national response against Macmillan’s anti-library e-book policy has been overwhelming, and we are proud to stand with the Rhode Island Library Association to urge action that holds Macmillan accountable,” said ALA Senior Director of Public Policy Alan Inouye. “Rhode Island is a unique state with a single library system, a structure that provides library users with many benefits. But Rhode Island library users are disproportionately hurt by Big Publishing’s unfair and potentially unconstitutional e-book practices. ALA sees Rhode Island as a model for the rest of the nation on how to stand up against Big Publishing and work toward restoring library users’ equitable access to e-books.”

The Rhode Island Library Association signed on to the American Library Association’s #eBooksForAll campaign last year. At the press conference today, RILA spoke out on the Big Publishing policies to educate lawmakers and other elected officials, public advocates, library users, and the general public. In the weeks ahead, RILA will continue to speak out and inform library users about Macmillan’s and Big Publishing’s unfair and unconstitutional practice. Through their outreach, RILA aims to inspire a broad coalition to take a range of actions blocking Macmillan’s and other publishers’ unfair practices directed toward libraries.

In February, RILA held a roundtable meeting with U.S. Representative David Cicilline (District 1) to discuss steps Congress can take to ensure that publishers cannot discriminate against libraries and library users. Following that meeting, Congressman Cicilline said he “look[s] forward to continuing our work together as the investigation wraps up and legislative fixes are introduced later this year.” In addition to meeting with Congressman Cicilline, RILA board members will meet with the Office of the Attorney General in the weeks ahead to discuss Macmillan’s potential violations of Rhode Islander’s constitutional rights and individual RILA members will request meetings with mayors and town managers to encourage local leaders to sign on with #eBooksForAll.

“The United States’ public library system is considered by many to be our most democratic institution, providing the public equitable and full access to information. Cranston has a rich history of public libraries with our first, the Auburn Public Library, opening in 1888,” said Cranston Mayor Allan Fung. “Cranston is fortunate to have six vibrant branches, which provide access to library services throughout the city. The limitation of the licensing of e-books to libraries would undermine the basic mission of the library to promote and provide free literacy, access and opportunity to all Rhode Islanders.”

For more information on ALA’s #eBooksForAll campaign, visit https://ebooksforall.org/

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Rhode Island Library Community Shares Ebook Purchasing Concerns with Congressman David Cicilline

Sat, 22 Feb 2020 14:24:43 GMT

The Rhode Island Library Association (RILA) hosted a lively and productive roundtable discussion of current ebook selling practices to libraries on Monday, February 3, 2020 at East Providence Public Library. Attendees included librarians, library stakeholders, patrons, and special guest U.S. House Representative David Cicilline.

The purpose of the roundtable was to discuss recent changes in the ebook publishing industry and communicate to the Congressman how these changes are negatively affecting the library patrons in his district and across the country. Congressman Cicilline is a member of the House Judiciary Committee and the Chair of the Antitrust, Commercial and Administrative Law (ACAL) Subcommittee, which is conducting a bipartisan investigation into competition in digital markets. RILA thought it fitting to have this discussion with him and bring to his attention how these publishers’ policies are affecting libraries and the public they serve.

RILA President, Julie Holden, began the session with opening remarks summarizing the current challenges to libraries: last November, Macmillan Publishing placed an embargo on libraries such that each library system is only allowed to purchase a single license of a new ebook during the first 8 weeks of publication. (Which means that Rhode Island libraries, which make up one library consortium, must share one copy of a new ebook.) This limitation puts even tighter restrictions on libraries, which have been facing challenges to providing cost-effective and equitable access to ebooks for its patrons for years. For example, Amazon, the fifth-largest publisher of ebooks, refuses to sell ebooks to libraries at all. Those publishers that do sell to libraries often charge up to five times more than what it charges the average ebook customer, and libraries only have access to those titles for a certain period of time or a certain number of checkouts, after which the title must be purchased again.

Congressman Cicilline then spoke about his efforts in Congress and the bipartisan investigation that the ACAL Subcommittee is conducting into digital markets. The investigation began last June and the Subcommittee has been holding hearings and producing documents focused on three main areas: identifying and documenting competition problems, assessing whether dominant companies are engaging in anticompetitive behavior, and determining whether existing laws, policies, and enforcement procedures are adequate to address any issues uncovered by the investigation. The Subcommittee has already held five hearings looking at the free and diverse press, innovation and entrepreneurship, the role of data and privacy in competition, perspectives of the antitrust agencies, and competitors in the digital economy.

Stephen Spohn, Executive Director of Ocean State Libraries (OSL), provided an update on the current state of electronic materials purchasing and the challenges the state-wide consortium faces. Stephen used blocks to illustrate how, unlike with print materials, where a library or library consortium may purchase as many copies as it likes at the same price as the average consumer - or even at a discounted price - the consortium is only able to purchase licenses to electronic materials at significantly higher prices. Despite the increase in price, the library or consortium still doesn’t own the material - they only own the license to use it for a specified amount of time, after which they must purchase another license. In the end, libraries end up paying three times more than the average consumer for ebooks and six times more for audiobooks. The result of this purchasing model is that, while ebooks make up only 3.2% of the OSL collection, they make up about 15% of the budget. Embargoes, such as the one Macmillan has employed, only exacerbate this problem.

Stephen’s opening remarks summarized the state’s libraries’ concerns well: “Libraries are a public good. We are not a corporation; we’re a public good; we are part of democracy. We ensure that everyone has access to knowledge, technologies, and resources to participate in our democracy and to access opportunities that are hallmarks of our nation. Limiting access to books for library users is immoral, unethical, and counter to the very principles upon which our nation was founded. And embargoes that prevent or curtail library purchasing and price fixing by large corporations must end.”

Following these opening statements, the floor was opened for discussion by the roundtable members of how these digital sales practices are affecting patrons directly. For example, Jill Smith spoke of her son, who relies on OSL’s ebook and digital audiobook collection, and her mother, who is visually impaired and uses the state’s Talking Books program as well as OSL’s digital audiobook collection. She also stated that, as a licensed therapist, she often refers her clients to ebooks and digital audiobooks on mental health topics that they can access privately on OSL’s eZone. She expressed concern over the effects of the Macmillan embargo on her family’s and patients’ abilities to access digital materials. Charlotte Toolan spoke of the frustration of wanting to read a new series, only to find that the third and fourth books in the series were available on the eZone, but the first two books were not. She discussed this with OSL staff and learned that, because of low circulation, OSL had decided not to repurchase the licenses to the earlier books in the series - but then that means that the money spent on the later books has likely been wasted, as no one wants to start a series midstream. Karen Mellor, Chief of Library Services for Rhode Island, described an example in which a young student would have to wait 6 to 8 months for the next ebook in a popular series - she would be in different grade by the time she was able to access that title.

Throughout the discussion, Congressman Cicilline was engaged and asked a lot of questions. At the end of the session, he requested copies of statements and examples of the effects discussed in order to weave them into the ACAL Subcommittee investigation. He remarked that the concerns raised during the roundtable discussion provided great examples of why issues of digital market dominance matter to regular people.

The Rhode Island Library Association Hosts E-book Roundtable with Special Guest Congressman David Cicilline

Tue, 04 Feb 2020 14:10:09 GMT

EAST PROVIDENCE, RI - On Monday, February 3, the Rhode Island Library Association hosted U.S. Congressman David Cicilline (RI-01) at a roundtable for library staff and library patrons from around the state to discuss current unfair terms of availability and pricing in the e-book market.

The roundtable, which took place at the East Providence Public Library Weaver Library in East Providence, provided attendees the opportunity to voice their concerns to Congressman Cicilline about the increasing difficulty in gaining access to e-books and other digital content from the library.

“We are thankful to Congressman Cicilline for taking the time to listen to our concerns, as recent market changes in the publishing industry have put libraries in an unsustainable position,” said Rhode Island Library Association president Julie Holden.

The discussion was initially prompted by Macmillan Publishers’ eight-week embargo on sales of new e-book titles to libraries, a policy that went into effect on November 1, 2019. The Rhode Island Library Association denounced the publisher’s change in terms and joined the American Library Association’s #eBooksForAll campaign calling on Macmillan to reverse the embargo and restore full access to its complete e-book catalog.

“Last fall Ocean State Libraries made it clear that we strongly oppose Macmillan’s attempt to delay access to e-books for our library patrons,” said Holden. “This embargo stands in the way of our mission to provide information in a fair and timely manner to everyone who uses our public libraries. The purpose of today’s discussion was to make sure our Representative is aware of how the practices of Macmillan and other players in digital markets are hurting his constituents and library users across the country.”

The #eBooksForAll campaign, with nearly 250,000 petition signers, has broadened its scope of interest to other digital content providers, including Amazon publishing, which does not sell any of its e-book titles to libraries. In a report to Congress, the American Library Association identified “practices by companies like Amazon and Macmillan Publishers that threaten Americans’ right to read what and how they choose and imperil other fundamental First Amendment freedoms.” The report was submitted in response to an inquiry from the U.S. House of Representatives Committee on the Judiciary Subcommittee on Antitrust, Commercial and Administrative Law, which is chaired by Congressman Cicilline.

“As the Chairman of the House Antitrust Subcommittee leading a bipartisan investigation into the state of competition in the digital marketplace, I’m particularly interested in potentially anticompetitive practices harming libraries and their users, especially in Rhode Island,” Cicilline said. “I’m grateful that the Rhode Island Library Association put together today’s roundtable so we could discuss these issues in detail. I look forward to continuing our work together as the investigation wraps up and legislative fixes are introduced later this year.”

The Rhode Island Library Association is a professional organization that serves its members through career development, education, advocacy, networking partnerships, and legislative action. RILA believes in:

· Advocacy

· Collaboration

· Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

· Equal Access for All

· Intellectual Freedom

“Pennies in the Cup:” Embracing Empathy While Serving Marginalized Patrons -- Ryan Dowd Presents “The Librarian’s Guide to Homelessness”

Mon, 13 Jan 2020 20:17:14 GMT

An enthralled crowd of mostly public librarians from all over the state attended a day-long Office of Library and Information Services (OLIS) training, “The Librarian’s Guide to Homelessness,” at the Central branch of Cranston Public Library on December 11, 2019. Presenter Ryan Dowd is the Executive Director of the second largest homeless shelter in Illinois and is well-known both nationally and abroad for his expertise on the topic.

Dowd, who toured the U.S. with filmmaker Emilio Estevez to promote “The Public,” the 2018 movie about the intersection of library services and marginalized patrons, brought plenty of experience, compassion, and humor to his presentation. He runs a “low-threshold shelter” that will accept “just about anyone” and sees a great deal of colorful behavior on a daily basis. During Dowd’s many years of working in the field, he has observed that people experiencing homelessness frequently struggle to follow the rules wherever they are, for a variety of reasons that were made clear during the session. His training program is designed to educate library staff about the need for “empathy-driven enforcement” of the rules in the face of such complex circumstances.

Ryan Dowd addresses a rapt audience; photo courtesy of Sarah Bouvier, CPL Communications Manager

Dowd divided the day into four parts: (1) understanding how the lives of people experiencing homelessness are very different from others’ lives, (2) examining when and what kinds of punishment works and doesn’t work, (3) the “psychology of voluntary compliance,” and (4) practical advice for synthesizing elements of parts one through three by using “tools of empathy and psychology.”

Empathy took center stage in every discussion and is the driving force behind Dowd’s “pennies in the cup” concept. His premise is that by earning goodwill (represented by those metaphorical pennies, which also can be called “positive relationship credits”) in advance—by going out of their way to be kind to all patrons but especially to marginalized ones—library staff are much more likely to see voluntary compliance from those they serve, including from patrons who may have nothing left to lose and who otherwise may be prone to exhibiting aggressive reactions to any kind of confrontation.

Ryan Dowd explains the three types of homelessness; photo courtesy of Sarah Bouvier, CPL Communications Manager

The complexity of the homelessness issue and how libraries can and should respond to it was not lost on the organizers of the event. In fact, this “was an easy decision,” according to information provided by OLIS staff member Nicolette Baffoni, because Dowd’s “training addresses the root causes of cyclical poverty and trauma that many people experiencing homelessness face, while also providing a vast array of tools to build relationships, increase empathy and, as a result, increase compliance with rules.”

Attendees seemed to grasp the value of the training and gave it high praise. According to Baffoni, “86% of [evaluation] survey respondents strongly agreed that they learned something and were more confident in applying what they learned.” “It was the shortest 7-hour training I think I’ve ever sat through,” wrote one participant. Another commented that the “staff from [my library] who took the workshop continue to bring up what they learned in almost every meeting I have attended since the training.” Someone else pointed out that Dowd’s “techniques can be used to smooth over relations with any kind of patron.”

Appreciative CPL staff members with Ryan Dowd; photo courtesy of Sarah Bouvier, CPL Communications Manager

From learning how the brain responds to trauma to understanding the difference between “dignity culture” and “honor culture” to recognizing that forms of non-verbal communication are just as impactful as verbal forms, the workshop was jam-packed with useful tools and information. OLIS hopes to explore ways to bring Dowd’s resources to a wider audience. His 2018 book, The Librarian's Guide to Homelessness : An Empathy-Driven Approach to Solving Problems, Preventing Conflict, and Serving Everyone, provides the basis for the training session, and its companion website can be visited at homelesslibrary.com.

RILINK School Library Consortium Begins Strategic Plan, Creates Buzz with Springshare

Sat, 11 Jan 2020 16:34:22 GMT

The Rhode Island Library Information Network for Kids (RILINK), the state’s consortium of K-12 school libraries, has reached an unprecedented level of growth in the 22 years since it was first founded. Now with 205 member libraries, Executive Director Dorothy Frechette decided the consortium was overdue to develop a 5-year strategic plan. Work on the planning process has begun in earnest.

On December 7, RILINK staff met with members of its newly created Advisory Committee for a brainstorming session. The Committee will provide vital feedback on the development of the plan during the coming months.

Members of the Advisory Committee are:

Martha Badigian, School Library Media Specialist, Peace Dale and Wakefield Elementary Schools
John Bucci, Library Board of Rhode Island
Maria Cotto, Bilingual Children's Librarian, Pawtucket Public Library
Daniela Fairchild, Director, Rhode Island Office of Innovation
Andrea Hajian, Librarian, La Salle Academy, Providence
Sarah Hunicke, Librarian, Portsmouth High School
Stephanie Mills, Librarian, Park View Middle School, Cranston
Mary Moen, Assistant Professor, School Media Coordinator, URI Graduate School of Library and Information Studies
Kathleen Odean, Educational Consultant
Donna Ottaviano, Executive Director, East Bay Educational Collaborative
Darshell Silva, Librarian, Davisville Middle School and North Kingstown High School
Joy Souza, Elementary School 1 Head of School, Blackstone Valley Prep Mayoral Academy, and RI Association of School Principals
Holly Walsh, Office of College and Career Readiness, Rhode Island Department of Education

RILINK staff looks forward to working with committee members over the next several months to develop a plan to support and improve RILINK’s benefits and services. Frechette hopes to implement the plan before the beginning of the 2020-2021 school year.

One benefit of RILINK membership is access to Springshare’s LibGuides CMS to build library websites. The RILINK Schools collection of LibGuides sites was recently featured as a client story in Springshare Buzz. Frechette states that RILINK Staff members Sharon Webster and Zach Berger were instrumental in researching, implementing, and offering trainings for LibGuides to RILINK members. Read the client story and learn more about RILINK on the consortium’s website.

Providence Public Library and the Rhode Island Historical Society Awarded Funding for Historic Newspaper Digitization Project

Sat, 11 Jan 2020 14:17:05 GMT

The Providence Public Library (PPL) and Rhode Island Historical Society (RIHS) are excited to announce the award of $250,000 in federal funding that will support an ongoing partnership to complete an extensive digitization project of Rhode Island’s historic newspapers. The funds are being awarded as part of the National Digital Newspaper Program (NDNP), a partnership between the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) and the Library of Congress, to create a national digital resource of historically significant newspapers published between 1690 and 1963 from all the states and U.S. territories available through the Library of Congress. This is the first time that Rhode Island has participated in the program.

RIHS holds a remarkable collection of microfilm reels of 314 Rhode Island newspaper titles that ceased publication prior to 1923. However, this collection, critical to understanding the development of both the state and the nation's rich history, remains unavailable for research in an online format.

This grant funding supports PPL, in partnership with the RIHS, to digitize at least 50,000 pages of historic RI newspapers, provide the Library of Congress preservation copies of microfilm reels, and promote the accessibility of these digital resources to the broader community.

The principal project activities and results will include:

RIHS will complete full inventory of master microfilm reels. In addition to title and publication dates, research into individual titles regarding readership, editorial stance, political orientation, and geographic coverage will be noted as it is available. Second-generation silver negative duplicates will be produced.
An Advisory Board will convene, establish decision-making protocols, and prioritize a list of titles for digitization.
PPL will scan, edit files, and create metadata.
PPL will maintain regularly scheduled quality review checks for digital files and metadata accuracy.
PPL will first submit test digitization run to RIHS for approval.
At least 100,000 pages will be digitized.

Woonsocket Harris Public Library Builds Partnerships to Serve the Homeschool Community

Tue, 07 Jan 2020 17:44:03 GMT

Woonsocket's homeschool community has noticeably grown over the past several years. As more families came to the Woonsocket Harris Public Library during school hours, Library staff realized there was a need for programming.

In March 2019, the homeschool outreach coordinator, Solitaire Frisby, and Chris Goldstein, the Children’s Librarian, met with Sarah Carr, Assistant Director at the Museum of Work and Culture. What started in May as a small, one-time program developed into a well-attended, free, bimonthly educational program for all ages. This partnership is ideal in meeting the specific needs of Woonsocket residents, as many are challenged with a lack of finances and/or transportation. Melissa Robb, of ENRICHri, reached out and helped invite homeschoolers beyond the Woonsocket area. The program had visitors from Worcester, Cumberland, Pawtucket, and other communities.

Homeschool families register with the Museum of Work and Culture, and the program starts at the Museum at 10am. A volunteer from the Museum leads families on a tour of specific parts of the Museum related to the topic of the day. Families then leave the Museum and travel to the Library nearby to continue in an immersive educational experience, which may include snacks, a craft, a hands-on STEAM activity, and green screen and other technology from the library's 2017 Studio Rhode Grant.

Each program has a different topic. In May, they focused on the French-Canadians' journey to America and how they established roots in Woonsocket, predominately by working in the mills; they had 23 participants. October's topic focused on mill work and the ecology of the Blackstone River; they had roughly 45 participants.

December’s program was entitled, “Global Holiday Traditions.” The museum offered four fantastic speakers from Dorcas International who shared their personal experiences having grown up in Quebec, The Congo, Israel, and Portugal; there were 68 participants. While the Museum provides area-specific tours of its facility and provides volunteers to lead discussions, the Library followed up with a slew of activities, including: a stamp-as-you-go holiday scavenger hunt, a holiday card-writing station for residents of a local nursing home, green screen photos, and the opportunity to taste new foods at the refreshment station. They had various displays, including a Chinese New Year dragon, as well as a functional 'German Christmas Market' in which homeschool students took turns as the vendor, selling donated children's books. It was a big hit, enjoyed by all, with lots of great feedback.

The Library's homeschool program collaboration with the Museum will continue into 2020 with two more events already scheduled for February and April.

RILA Launches Mentorship Program!

Mon, 06 Jan 2020 22:55:29 GMT

Did you know that January is National Mentoring Month? Mentoring is a wonderful opportunity to make a difference in the life of another person and to gain new insights into our rich profession. You can also give and receive guidance and take your career to the next level. RILA is officially launching its new Mentorship Program this year, and we would love your participation. Please join our program today to develop lasting professional relationships with others in the field.

To be a part of the RILA Mentorship Program:

You must be a current RILA member.
You may be a library employee, retired librarian, or current library school student.
You must make a 1-year commitment that includes meeting with your mentor/mentee at least 3 or 4 times per year by phone, email, web conferencing, or in-person meetings.

You can sign up to be a Mentor or a Mentee. We are seeking both types of applicants and anticipate formally launching our first cohort this Spring.

Click here to fill out the Mentor Application.

Click here to fill out the Mentee Application.

You can read the Program Guidelines for more information.

For questions, please contact mentor@rilibraries.org.

Public Libraries Fight for Lower Prices and Greater Access to eBooks

Sat, 02 Nov 2019 13:50:36 GMT

This news story out of Multnomah County, Oregon, provides a good summary of the issues at play in the battle between public libraries, which have seen increased ebook use, and ebook publishers which are raising prices and instituting policies that restrict access.

Watch the Video Here

Access the full article here: https://katu.com/news/following-the-money/multnomah-county-library-in-the-fight-with-publishers-over-price-of-ebooks

Rhode Island Library Association Calls for Macmillan to Reverse Library eBook Embargo

Mon, 30 Sep 2019 19:00:48 GMT

On July 25, Macmillan Publishing announced it would become the only major (Big 5) publisher to limit eBook lending for U.S. libraries. Under its new licensing model, scheduled to begin November 1, 2019, a library may purchase one copy upon release of a new title in eBook format, after which the publisher will impose an eight-week embargo on additional copies of that title sold to libraries.

As American Library Association (ALA) President Wanda Brown asserted that same day, “Macmillan Publishers’ new model for library eBook lending will make it difficult for libraries to fulfill our central mission: ensuring access to information for all. Macmillan’s new policy is unacceptable.”

Rhode Island Library Association (RILA) President Julie Holden agrees and adds, “By providing readers with wide access to authors and their works, libraries are partners, not adversaries, of the publishing industry. We contribute to the success of Macmillan’s writers and authors, who will be negatively affected by this embargo.”

See the full Press Release here

Peace Dale Library Restores George Washington Needlework

Mon, 15 Jul 2019 14:00:30 GMT

Many Rhode Island libraries reside in historic buildings and contain legacy artwork that may eventually need attention and care. This was the case with a large framed 19th-century needlework at Peace Dale Library depicting Gilbert Stuart's Landsdowne portrait of George Washington. It has hung in the Library's Rhode Island History Room for decades, and its provenance and creator are unknown. Over time, staff and patrons had noted that threads appeared damaged and canvas showed through, and suggestions had been made to have the piece looked at by the University of Rhode Island's Textile Conservation Laboratory.

The Library has had a long-standing relationship with the Narragansett-Cooke-Gaspee Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution, who over many years have generously donated books and shelving for the Library's local history collection. Since the needlework's subject matter was George Washington, the Library approached the Chapter in the spring of 2017 to ask if they would be interested in exploring the possibility of a restoration. They agreed, and the Library contacted the Textile Conservation Laboratory to set up a visit.

The Laboratory, for a nominal standard fee, will examine an item and prepare a "Conservation Analysis & Recommendations and Treatment Report." Rebecca Kelly, Director of the Laboratory, and one or two of her students came to the Library to take a look at “George.” On the basis of that visit, they produced the report laying out the anticipated work and costs. This was shared with the DAR Chapter, which agreed to fund the project.

Once this was all determined, Director Kelly returned to the Library to transport "George" to the Laboratory on the University's Kingston campus. Over the next 15 months, "he" underwent various conservation procedures, including vacuuming away dust and particles, microscopic examination of fibers, and detaching webbing and newspaper used in previous framing. “He” was then fitted with a cotton-covered acid-free backing and placed in a new frame with spacers to keep the embroidery out of contact with the protective glass.

Framing was done at the Laboratory, with components brought there by the framer, eliminating the need for transport to a different location. The cost of framing, separate from the conservation itself, was shared equally by the DAR Chapter and Friends of the Peace Dale Library.

The project took nearly two years, longer than if the Library had used a professional conservation firm, because the University's Laboratory is a teaching facility. But it was gratifying to all involved to be able to work together--the Peace Dale Library, the DAR Chapter, the Friends of the Peace Dale Library, and the Textile Conservation Laboratory. The Library’s needlework picture is now set for another 150 years. The DAR Chapter helped to preserve a public artwork featuring a principal figure of the American Revolution. A number of Textile Conservation students had an opportunity to participate in the research and assist with aspects of the work. And the Friends of the Peace Dale Library made a lasting contribution to one of the cultural resources housed in the Library.

“George,” newly vibrant, came "home" in May, 2019. On May 22, the Library hosted a public unveiling, with Rebecca Kelly as the featured speaker. As the next century of life for this historic artwork begins, we invite all in the RILA community to come take a look!

Submitted by Jessica Wilson, Reference and Local History Librarian

Staying Positive Against All Odds

Sat, 13 Jul 2019 13:38:34 GMT

In midst of a funding battle, Maury Loontjens Memorial Library in Narragansett is a finalist to be named one of the Nicest Places in America.

As the people of this seaside town fight to save their library, the librarians go about their business, serving the community.

Narragansett’s public library is so unassuming that you might drive right by it if you didn’t know what you were looking for. But to the 15,000 people who make this seaside town their home, the library is where the knitting club meets, high schoolers hunker with tutors, preschoolers sit wide-eyed at story time—and where it’s impossible to miss how gracious the staff is in the face of an existential threat.

Recently the town council voted to slash the facility’s budget in half and put on hold plans for a much-needed new building for the 10,000 people who visit a month. The library may lose its eligibility for additional state funding, putting five full-time and 14 part-time staffers’ jobs in jeopardy. The fight has gotten ugly at times, with heated arguments at town council meetings. Through it all, the librarians have stayed above the fray, continuing to smile, making the library an oasis of civility even as a battle rages around it.

“We have no say in the politics,” says library director Patti Arkwright. “So we just go with the flow. We’re just happy to serve the people who use our library.”

“As soon as you come through that door, they make you feel like you’re the most important person in the world,” says local resident Suzan Amoruso, who nominated the place. When her grandchildren visit from out of town, the first place they ask to go is the library.

Supporters drop in regularly with boxes of chocolates and plates of cookies for library staffers, who regularly go above and beyond the call of duty. Like the time when a woman told a librarian she was lonely and longed for a dog. A short time later another patron mentioned plans to move and the need to rehome a dog. The librarian connected the two parties and a match was made.

At a recent council meeting, one woman stood and gave the crowd a history lesson about the town that has been her home for more than 90 years. The library, she argued, is a reflection of Narragansett’s core values kindness and civility, no matter what you’re facing. Before she sat back down, she said simply, “This is who we are. We are this library.”

The Nomination

As the current town council attempts to dismantle the library, the librarians continue to make it a center of the community. Residents are gathering around to save the library.

In a very outdated space, the librarians continue to run very current and interesting programs. They speak out at every town council meeting to try to convince the present town council that a library is not just a place to check out a book. They stay calm and positive.

The first place my grandchildren want to visit is the library. Other residents in Rhode Island say, “I love your library.” The librarians there are so nice, so helpful.

I had a very sentimental chair that my mother sat in. When it had to be given away the library was the perfect place for it. I can visit it and when I see others in it reading it brings me joy. Residents are doing all they can to prevent the library from being cut and to have it moved into the building that was purchased by the town. And through it all, the library staff keep welcoming all who enter.

A donated chair that reminds our nominator of her mother is one of many things that make this place special. Photo courtesy Suzan Amoruso.

Think that Maury Loontjens Memorial Library in Narragansett, Rhode Island is the Nicest Place in America? Vote here!

"Project Read: Feed Your Mind and Your Heart"

Mon, 20 May 2019 14:42:53 GMT

Have you shared a book with young people in your school, family or community that you would recommend to others? The Rhode Island Library and Information Network for Kids (RILINK) invites you to share that title with others in our online survey. Click on the image to participate!

Resume Review at RILA 2019

Wed, 15 May 2019 15:44:38 GMT

When opportunity comes knocking, make sure you’re ready! The 2019 RILA Conference will offer resume review by professionals in the field who regularly hire staff and know what will get you the attention you desire when applying for jobs.

Resume Review sessions will be held 3-4PM on Wednesday, May 22nd and 10:15-11:15AM on Thursday, May 23rd.

Drop-ins are welcome, so bring your resume with you to the RILA Conference! If you’d like more in-depth, personalized resume advice, please email your resume to melissa@cumberlandlibrary.org for review prior to the conference.

Even if you’re not actively job hunting, it’s always a good idea to keep your resume updated. Don’t miss this opportunity to give your resume a spring makeover with professionals from across the library and human resources field!

A Conversation on the State of Our Libraries

Mon, 13 May 2019 20:30:43 GMT

On April 1, Cranston Public Library’s (CPL’s) Central branch was the gathering place for over 50 library colleagues and special guests for a “Conversation on the State of Our Libraries,” with U.S. Senator Jack Reed and Dr. Kathryn K. Matthew, Director of the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), as featured speakers. CPL Director Ed Garcia warmly welcomed guests and turned the podium over to Cranston Mayor Allan Fung, who gratefully acknowledged that Senator Reed has long been a champion of libraries.

Senator Reed focused his remarks on the “new and improved” Museum and Library Services Act of 2018, which was signed into law on December 31, 2018. “All Americans are beneficiaries of libraries,” the Senator said. “We are not individual islands—this is a connected system.” Emphasizing the critical nature of these partnerships, he went on to extol the Act’s legislative highlights in making libraries hubs for community involvement and providing crucial support for digital, financial, and other literacies, as well as fostering lifelong learning. Senator Reed also expressed his “special duty” as successor to the late Senator Claiborne Pell to support the IMLS, which he recognized as an important part of the Pell legacy.

Dr. Matthew opened her talk by explaining why the Institute chose its “Transforming Communities” theme for its new Strategic Plan. Libraries must “turn inside out to connect with what your constituents feel is important,” she said, declaring that libraries should “work with the momentum of their communities—it’s not up to the IMLS to say what that is.” Therefore, she continued, that’s why the IMLS has a new mission to “advance, support, and empower America’s museums, libraries, and related organizations through grantmaking, research, and policy development.”

Senator Reed, Dr. Matthew, CPL Director Ed Garcia, and Cranston Mayor Allan Fung

(Photo Credit: Sarah Bouvier, CPL Library Communications Manager)

The enthusiastic crowd was especially appreciative of Dr. Matthew’s announcement that all small states will now benefit from a reconfigured IMLS funding formula, with Rhode Island receiving $1,086,913 in 2019. She offered tips for applying for IMLS grants, which include reviewing the Institute’s Strategic Plan, forming meaningful community collaborations and partnerships, understanding the impact of projects (including how to both pilot and evaluate them), anchoring work in what’s already been discovered, and using known data and practice to take risks to evolve. Dr. Matthew also pointed her audience to the IMLS “Biscuits vs. Granola” blog post of June 18, 2018 for practical advice on “how practitioners can scale up a new idea.”

In her conclusion, Dr. Matthew emphasized the need for efforts to “identify opportunities for further capacity- and skill-building” as an essential part of “understanding the social wellbeing impacts of the nation’s libraries and museums. ” A January 2017 “Community Catalyst” report is available online to help with this process.

In the next segment of the program, during which library staff from around the state spoke about new projects and initiatives, Rhode Island Chief of Library Services Karen Mellor kicked things off by recognizing that “We are one of the handful of states that enshrines the right to library services in its Constitution” and by acknowledging that an “extensive network allows Rhode Island to move forward with innovative projects and respond to the needs of all library types.”

Danielle Margarida of OLIS addresses the group

(Photo Credit: Sarah Bouvier, CPL Library Communications Manager)

Select speakers then spoke for a few minutes each about resourceful, transformative library projects and services happening in Rhode Island. These include:

The Office of Library and Information Services’ (OLIS) participation in the Young Adult Library Services Association (YALSA) pilot cohort of Transforming Teen Services: A Train the Trainer Approach. Through this project, Danielle Margarida, OLIS Youth Services Coordinator, and Rebecca Ott, Tiverton Public Library Teen Librarian, have been trained to transform teen services by training teen librarians to feel more comfortable integrating connected learning and computational thinking into teen programs and services. The project is being implemented by YALSA in partnership with the Chief Officers of State Library Agencies and is funded by the IMLS.
The My Woonsocket Life Studio Rhode project at Woonsocket Public Library, described by Library Director Leslie Page as a means to “get people in the community thinking about community identity” through short videos in which patrons talk about the past, present, and future of the city.
The EXCITE Transformation for Libraries “boot camp” training program, in which several RI libraries (including teams from Bryant University, CPL, and Westerly Public Library) were joined by other library teams from around the Northeast to learn how to “reverse engineer” programming and services to better meet the needs of patrons. Julie Holden (Assistant Director, CPL), Maura Keating (Research and Instruction Librarian, Douglas and Judith Krupp Library, Bryant University), and Bill Lancelotta (Assistant Director, Westerly Public Library) described how the training provided valuable tools for refining the design thinking process and enabling library staff to connect with communities in new and exciting ways. Funding for the training is made possible by IMLS grant # RE-95-17-0068-17 in the Laura Bush 21st Century Librarian Program.
Using virtual reality to “bring” attractions to Providence Community Library (PCL) patrons, as discussed by Library Director Cheryl Space and IT Manager David Sok. Virtual Providence “is a series of 360-degree video tours of cultural institutions in Providence created by local teens in the library.” PCL has also developed a Computer Builders program that teaches kids and teens how to build computers, which are then fitted with a plaque with their names and added to the computer lab. This is an ongoing program that began in 2017.

Written by Zach Berger, RILA Communications

Register Now! RILA 2019 Conference

Wed, 10 Apr 2019 12:44:12 GMT

The Rhode Island Library Association is pleased to announce that our Annual Conference registration is now open! The 2019 RILA Conference is packed with fantastic keynotes, breakout sessions, poster presentations, and networking opportunities for all library types. Register now to lock in early-bird rates!

RILA 2019: Get Informed!

Bryant University, Smithfield, RI

May 22nd & 23rd, 2019

https://www.rilibraries.org/page-1776018

Conference Schedule

Keynote speakers:

G. Wayne Miller, Director, Story in the Public Square

Wanda Brown, ALA President-Elect

Michael A. Spikes, Consultant, News Media Literacy

Join your colleagues at the 2019 RILA Conference – we can’t wait to see you there! Early-bird pricing ends May 10th, so don't delay, register today!

New England Library Leadership Symposium Info Night

Sun, 10 Feb 2019 23:11:15 GMT

New England Library Leadership Symposium Info Night

Wednesday, February 20 at 6 pm

Panera Bread, 4000 Chapel View Blvd in Cranston

Are you looking to enhance your career with library leadership training? The New England Library Leadership Symposium (NELLS) is a five-day intensive training program designed to foster the mentoring and development of library leaders. Learn about this exciting opportunity for career and personal growth by attending the NELLS Info Night at the Chapel View Panera near Garden City in Cranston on Wed, Feb 20 at 6 pm. Speak with NELLS alum currently working in Rhode Island libraries and NELLS 2017 mentor, Dorothy Swain to gain insight on how this training benefited them and what you can get out of it.

Email your NELA State Representative, Jessica D’Avanza to RSVP and/or for questions at: ri@nelib.org or jessicad@barringtonlibrary.org or find our Facebook event and let us know you are “going.”

NELLS takes place every other year and this year’s Symposium will be held in North Andover, MA at the Rolling Ridge Retreat & Conference Center from August 12 to 16, 2019. It is led by ALA past-president Maureen Sullivan and is a cooperative effort of the New England Library Association and all six New England state library associations. Applications with 3 letters of reference are being accepted through March 15. More information can be found here.

Money Smart Week 2019 - March 30th - April 6th

Mon, 04 Feb 2019 18:50:58 GMT

Money Smart Week begins on March 30th! Still haven’t booked a program? The Financial Literacy Roundtable has compiled a list of contacts for financial education providers throughout the state to help you get started: Financial Literacy Program Resource List.

We would love to help you promote your Money Smart Week events, so please submit them to flrt@rilibraries.org by Friday, March 1st. Events will be listed in our statewide calendar, posted to our Money Smart Week RI Facebook page (follow us there!), and promoted at our kick-off event.

This year, FLRT is partnering with the Financial Planning Association of RI to host Financial Planning Day at the North Providence Public Library to kick off MSW. The event will take place on Saturday, March 30th from 10:30 am to 1:30 pm and is open to the public. Certified Financial Planners will provide free, one-on-one consultations with attendees, as well as present on Investing Basics and Real World Retirement Planning. Please find the flyer attached. Visit Eventbrite for details and to register.

RILA Financial Literacy Roundtable

flrt@rilibraries.org

RILA Partners with the School Librarians of Rhode Island (SLRI)

Thu, 31 Jan 2019 15:03:51 GMT

The Rhode Island Library Association (RILA) welcomes the School Librarians of Rhode Island (SLRI) into our organization as new RILA Section.

“SLRI is excited to move forward and join forces with our colleagues across Rhode Island,” stated Lisa Girard, SLRI President. “We will be stronger together!”

“RILA’s mission is to serve all librarians in our state and this collaboration will help us to further this goal”, says Kieran Ayton, President of RILA.

SLRI is a professional organization representing school library media professionals and support staff working for school library media, computer, and instructional technology programs in Rhode Island. The purpose of SLRI is to provide leadership and support for school library media professionals and support staff in the development, promotion, improvement, and evaluation of school library media, computer, and instructional technology programs in all Rhode Island schools. You can visit the SLRI website here.

Members of all both organizations can now join or renew their Section memberships on the RILA website

The Rhode Island Library Association (RILA) is a professional organization that serves its members through career development, education, advocacy, networking partnerships and legislative action. Through collaboration and community partnerships RILA will inspire and promote excellence in library services.

Call for Proposals! RILA 2019 Conference

Thu, 10 Jan 2019 15:34:51 GMT

2019 RILA Conference: "Get Informed!"

Join us for the 2019 Rhode Island Library Association Annual Conference

on May 22nd & 23rd at Bryant University in Smithfield, RI.

The 2019 RILA Conference will launch a statewide news literacy initiative, featuring engaging sessions on news and media literacy, civic education and democracy, and many other topics of interest to public, academic, school, and special librarians and library staff. We can't wait to see you at the conference!

Interested in presenting? Submit your proposal today! Conference proposals are due February 22nd.

Sponsor & Exhibitor registration is now open! Please review our exhibitor package for details and contact conference@rilibraries.org with any questions.

Looking for a Mentor? Apply for NELLS 2019 Now!

Wed, 02 Jan 2019 17:57:33 GMT

Hello everyone,

Happy New Year!

Are you - or do you know - someone who is a new librarian looking for a mentor? Please consider applying for this wonderful leadership opportunity through the New England Library Leadership Symposium (NELLS).

RILA and OLIS contribute funding for mentors and mentees to participate in this five-day intensive training program designed to foster the mentoring and development of leaders in state and regional library associations. NELLS was created through a cooperative effort of the New England Library Association and all six New England state library associations.

Please feel free to contact me with questions at president@rilibraries.org.

The deadline for applications is March 15, 2019.

Thank you,

Kieran Ayton, RILA President

Associate Professor

Emerging Technologies Librarian

Interim Head of Digital Initiatives

Rhode Island College

kayton@ric.edu

NELLS 2019 - Now Accepting Applications!

View this email in your browser

NELLS 2019

August 12th - 16th
Now Accepting Applications!

Apply Today!

The purpose of this five-day intensive training program is to foster the mentoring and development of leaders in state and regional library associations. NELLS was created through a cooperative effort of the New England Library Association and all six New England state library associations. NELLS has been held six times since its inception in 2003, most recently in 2017.

NELLS 2019 is taking place August 12th – 16th, 2019 at the Rolling Ridge Retreat and Conference Center, North Andover, MA. The tuition/housing fee for 2019 is TBD.

**To learn more about the 2019 NELLS event, please click HERE.**

Sincerely,

Mary Etter & Krista McLeod - NELLS Co-Chairs

Copyright © 2018 (c) New England Library Association, All rights reserved.
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RILA Sections: COLA Advocates for Libraries and Provides Educational Workshops

Tue, 01 Jan 2019 16:53:43 GMT

Greetings from COLA’s new chair. I am excited to be coming on board at this ground-breaking moment in COLA’s history. COLA is one of two independent organizations that recently chose to join forces with RILA. In our case, the decision was made in order to amplify our advocacy efforts on behalf of all libraries in Rhode Island and to allow us to offer more educational workshops on how libraries transform lives. While RILA is comprised primarily of professional practitioners, COLA is a grassroots organization of community residents eager to preserve and expand library services in the state. Merging with RILA enables COLA to build its capacity to advocate and educate for all our libraries.

Please visit COLA’s website and Facebook page (or follow us on Twitter) for additional information on our Coalition. We are in the process of moving our web presence to the RILA umbrella, and we will let you know as soon as that transition is complete. If you are interested in adding your voice in support of Rhode Island’s libraries, please consider joining us. To join COLA (or renew your membership), please visit the membership page.

First you must join RILA at the membership level that best fits your employment status. If you are a practicing librarian, please select the salary level that best matches your income. Students, retirees, trustees and supporters can join at the $15 level. During the membership process, you will be able to join the COLA Section.

Thank you,

Sharon A. Lux

RILA Section: CORI Serves to Promote and Increase Librarians and Library Staff of Color

Tue, 01 Jan 2019 16:39:56 GMT

Cornucopia of Rhode Island: A Library Community of Color (CORI), begins 2019 as a section of the Rhode Island Library Association. A grass root organization CORI was founded in the fall of 2005 with a mission and goal to serve the library community of color and an objective to promote library services to people of color within Rhode Island and the development of librarians and library staff of color.

CORI meetings has provided a forum that encourages the exchange of ideas and the discussion of issues, problems and concerns of librarians and library staff of color. Members are mentoring librarians and library staff of color and encouraging librarianship as a profession to people of color as well as promoting the development and delivery of multi-cultural collections, services and programs.

Cornucopia aimed to present community conferences on the diverse minority groups in Rhode Island. The first conference held in 2005 was entitled “I is not for Indian” and was a total success as it enlightened the many librarians of the inadequate portrayal of Native Americans in children’s books and literature. This conference was followed by a workshop on the Chinese language and culture; a combined effort with the University of Rhode Island Confucius Institute. In following years CORI’s Fall Conferences as they became known, included the Cape Verdean Community, the Rhode Island Hispanic Community, and the African American Community. A community conversation on Rhode Island students included the president of the American Library Association, Barbara Stripling and United States Senator Jack Reed of Rhode Island. Senator Reed, a prominent advocate for libraries and librarians has supported CORI throughout its incorporation.

CORI has also presented at the annual RILA Conference. The very first presentation was Dr. Carla Hayden, past president of ALA, former director of the Enoch Pratt Library and now Librarian of Congress. Other presenters have included former Commissioner Deborah A. Gist, Rhode Island Department of Education, Pamela Goode, an associate editor of American Libraries Association, Keith Stokes, former Executive Director of the Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation and Attorney Veronica Hobbs, Director of the Domestic Violence Training & Monitoring Unit for the Rhode Island Supreme Court.

CORI is very excited about the next phase of the organization as a section of RILA. The potential benefits for CORI uniting with RILA are many. An excellent example is the organizations would increase the effective advocacy for library services in all Rhode Island libraries and to improve the quality of life of all Rhode Islanders. Why not join us as we continue to better our state.

For additional information on CORI, visit our blog. If you are interested in adding your voice in support, please consider joining us. To join CORI (or renew your membership), please visit the membership page.

Submitted by Ida D. McGhee, MLIS

RILA Signs Deeds of Gift with COLA and CORI

Fri, 21 Dec 2018 21:16:07 GMT

Today marked a historic day for RILA as we signed Deeds of Gift with both the Coalition of Library Advocates and Cornucopia of Rhode Island as Sections of RILA, bringing together our three rich organizations!

RILA Urges Congress to Increase the LSTA Grants to States Program

Fri, 14 Dec 2018 22:27:23 GMT

The Rhode Island Library Association (RILA) joins with other state library associations and national organizations to urge Congress to invest in the nation’s education and economy by increasing the LSTA Grants to States program to $325 million per year, or one dollar for every American, to support library services in Rhode Island and across the nation.

LSTA funding in Rhode Island supports statewide services such as the Children’s Summer Reading Program, the Talking Books Library for the visually impaired, digital literacy training, and local library services across the state as coordinated by the State of Rhode Island Office of Library and Information Services (OLIS).

“LSTA is of vital importance to Rhode Island,” says Kieran Ayton. “This funding will serve a diverse people through these library programs and is crucial to continuing to provide these resources to residents in the state.”

Funding for the Grants to States program through the Institute of Museum and Library Services currently allocates $164 million to support state-based library services, approximately 49 cents per resident or about .00004 percent of the total federal budget.

See full resolution here.

COLA and Cornucopia of RI Join the RILA Family!

Thu, 06 Dec 2018 15:12:06 GMT

The Rhode Island Library Association (RILA) welcomes the RI Coalition of Library Advocates (COLA) and Cornucopia of Rhode Island (CORI) into our organization as RILA Sections.

“This connection creates a larger advocacy voice for the Rhode Island Library Community”, says Kieran Ayton, President of RILA. “This will allow us to build opportunities around the state with combined networking activities, programming and professional development.”

The RI Coalition of Library Advocates (COLA) works to improve library services through advocacy, education, and public awareness. For over 30 years COLA has supported Rhode Island Libraries through petitions, Congressional testimony, and strategic communications with RI legislators.

Cornucopia of Rhode Island (CORI) serves the library community of color. CORI mentors librarians and library staff of color, promotes the development of multicultural services and programs, and professional and educational activities.

Members of all three organizations can now join or renew their Section memberships on the RILA website.

RILA Stands with ALA and GLBTRT in support of LGBTQ civil liberties

Mon, 05 Nov 2018 15:58:14 GMT

Contact: RILA Communications Committee

Rhode Island Library Association

communications@rilibraries.org

The Rhode Island Library Association (RILA) supports the American Library Association (ALA) and the ALA Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender Round Table (GLBTRT) in their response to the Trump Administration’s proposals to “narrow the definition of ‘sex’ under Title IX and exclude Lesbian, Gay, and Transgender citizens from the protections of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act”.

We are deeply concerned about the Administration’s proposals as they are in direct conflict with RILA’s values and commitments, and we affirm the following assertions as put forth by the ALA:

“Libraries strive to serve as institutions that mirror all facets of our society. Our goals are to empower our members to serve all communities regardless of gender identity, sexual orientation, race, or class, with tools that foster education and lifelong learning.”
“The proposed regulatory and policy changes are in direct conflict with ALA’s fundamental values, principles, and commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion.”
“Our goals are to empower our members to serve all communities regardless of gender identity, sexual orientation, race, or class, with tools that foster education and lifelong learning.”
“We oppose government measures that marginalize populations and deny individuals' civil rights and the full protection of the law. We will not support government actions that will harm ALA members and the 1.4 million Americans who identify with a gender other than their birth sex.”
“We stand in solidarity with our LGBTQ members, colleagues, families, friends, community members, and students, and we fully support efforts to fight for acceptance, and understanding of all members of society.”

To view the full ALA statement, go here: http://www.ala.org/news/press-releases/2018/11/ala-glbtrt-continue-voice-support-lgbtq-civil-liberties

Virtual Reality in Rhode Island

Wed, 12 Sep 2018 17:26:52 GMT

In the fall of 2017 I attended the Futures Conference in Atlantic City where I saw a presentation by Oculus VR, LLC. The company donated Oculus Rift VR systems to 90 libraries in the state and basically said, “Have fun!” And they did!! Just google “Oculus Rift in California libraries” and you’ll find all kinds of press.

In their presentation, Oculus noted how VR is currently being used. I was moved by the research being done with full immersion virtual reality; empathy building in particular. So, I looked at my conference mates and said, “OK, Let’s do this!!” But, VR is expensive, and this was 6 months before every library journal published an article about having VR in the library. My conference mates were excited, but also not convinced to spend the money.

When the Studio Rhode Next Generation Library Challenge, phase 2 came along, I decided this was my chance. I wrote the grant with the idea that Warwick Library would have a permanent VR set up, as well as a traveling VR system that we could loan out to libraries in Rhode Island. I firmly believe that as a small state we should be sharing big ticket items that may not be used regularly. (Aren’t we the ultimate sharers?)

I received the grant and now we have a traveling HTC Vive VR system, an Asus ROG STRIX Gaming Laptop loaded with over 65 VR experiences and games, and all you need to set up a room scale virtual reality experience. Give me a call, I’ll bring it to you. If you need training, we can plan a session where I hang out and teach your staff how to set it up and use it. Then you can hold your own programs, without the cost of purchasing a whole system. Thanks to Studio Rhode and OLIS!!

Here are some of the programs we have done so far:

Minecraft creation camp – teens built a replica of the library in Minecraft and were able to explore it in VR. This was intense and I had a lot of help with it. The teens knew what they were doing, but I knew nothing about Minecraft.
Book group attendees have watched experiences that relate to the books they were reading. An example is they were reading about immigration and refugees and they watched Forced to Flee, a live film made in the Rohingya Refugee camp.
We have done several demonstrations in the lobby, to peak interest and get the word out that we have VR.
Teen Gaming time
30 minute appointments for the public to sign up to use VR

By Jana L. Stevenson

Deputy Director, Warwick Public Library

warwicklibrary.org

Spirits, Séances, and a Ringing Watch: Spiritualism and the papers of Joseph Peace Hazard

Wed, 12 Sep 2018 17:14:58 GMT

As part of my coursework for my MLIS, I completed two professional field experience (PFE) internships at the James P. Adams Library, Rhode Island College. During my first PFE (Fall 2017), I learned about different aspects of digitization by working with Kieran Ayton and Andy Davis on several ongoing projects in the Digital Initiatives Department. During my second PFE (Spring 2018), I got to apply the skills I learned in my first PFE by working on a new project with Marlene Lopes in Special Collections, in collaboration with Andy Davis in Digital Initiatives. RIC student workers J Bruscini, Catherine Butler, and Natasha Soto also worked on this project.

Special Collections at RIC holds the Nathaniel Terry Bacon collection, which includes the personal and business papers of Nathaniel Terry Bacon, as well as the personal papers of other members of the socially prominent Bacon and Hazard families. For our project, my PFE supervisors selected the papers of Joseph Peace Hazard (1807-1892) of Peace Dale. Hazard’s papers reflect his personal passions, which included architecture, travel, and Spiritualism. In Special Collections, you can find Hazard’s correspondence regarding his construction projects; tickets, hotel bills, calling cards and letters of introduction from his extensive travels abroad; and personal letters, notes, and a journal regarding Hazard’s interest in Spiritualism.

For this project, we decided to digitize Hazard’s journal and other documents related to Spiritualism. We started with Hazard’s journal, in which Hazard recorded instances of his pocket watch “ringing.” Hazard believed this “ringing” to be a form of communication from his “Spirit Friends.” We first digitized this journal using a copy stand with a digital SLR camera. We also used a pane of glass, which was ordered specifically for this project, to keep the journal pages flat during the photography process.

After the journal was photographed, we cropped the images in Photoshop and created a PDF of the journal. We then transcribed the journal, adding notes to explain historical oddities in the text (for example, Hazard’s watch began “ringing” during a visit to “Beyrouth [Beirut] in Syria”; Beirut is now in Lebanon, but during the time of Hazard’s visit in 1878, Beirut was part of Ottoman Syria). J Bruscini used Adobe InDesign to create an e-book which presents the original journal pages alongside their transcription.

Once the journal was transcribed, we reviewed the rest of Hazard’s papers to select additional documents related to Spiritualism for digitization, including leaflets, newspaper clippings, letters, and personal memoranda. Once digitized, these additional documents were then uploaded and assigned metadata in RIC’s Digital Commons. We curated these documents in an Omeka exhibit which presents Hazard’s papers in the broader context of 19^th century Spiritualism. Finally, we presented our work to the public during programs held at the Greenville Public Library and the Peace Dale Public Library.

In addition to making Hazard’s papers more accessible to researchers, we hope that this project will spark some public interest in the local history collections held by Special Collections and the digitization work done by Digital Initiatives.

By Patricia McIvor

Summer Meals at the East Smithfield Public Library

Thu, 26 Jul 2018 18:59:00 GMT

As the children’s librarian at the East Smithfield Public Library, I periodically attend monthly Children’s Service Round Table meetings. Attended by Rhode Island children’s librarians, these meetings are held at different library locations and each agenda focuses on a variety of topics of concern and interest. The meetings are run by Danielle Margarida, the Youth Services Coordinator, at OLIS. At one of the meetings about the Summer Reading Program, Azade Perin, Child Nutrition Program Outreach Coordinator from the Rhode Island Department of Education, gave a presentation about Summer Meals. She wanted to let librarians know that summer meals can be served at public libraries. Her enthusiasm about making sure children can access food throughout the summer was infectious.

Summer meals are funded by the USDA and certain requirements need to be met, in order for a library to qualify as a site to serve meals. According to the USDA website (2017), “a site is the physical location, approved by the State agency, where you serve SFSP (Summer Food Service Program)”. Libraries are considered open sites, which are sites “that operate in low-income areas where at least 50 percent of children residing in the area are eligible for free and reduced-price meals, based on local school or census data” (USDA, 2017). Since libraries are considered open sites, they are seen as ideal places for serving summer meals. One of the main perks of being an open site is that any child may receive a meal without a parent/caregiver filling out any paperwork. All meals are served to children and teens under the age of eighteen and must be eaten on-site (USDA, 2017).

After that meeting with Ms. Perin, I received an email letting me know that East Smithfield Public Library would qualify as an open site. After two meetings and a few emails, everything was finalized. We were able to use our programming room to serve the meals. We decided on a schedule of Mondays through Thursdays from 11:30 am to 12:30 pm, beginning on July 9th and ending on August 16th.

The role the library plays in this is simple. We set up the room, and the meal provider (usually associated with the food service program at the local public school department) comes and serves the meals. I used some ideas from articles on summer meal programs held at other libraries. I put tablecloths on the tables and provided small activities for the children such as books, coloring sheets and Legos. I also scheduled programming to take place before and after the lunch program.

Since the program has started, twelve meals have been served, on average, each day. It seems like a small amount, but I believe that there has been a positive impact in the community. There are patrons attending the lunch program who are new to the library. They are attending story times and using the children’s area. There are teens who are walking to the library to have lunch and to use the computers. And, there are children who typically come to the library, enjoying lunch as well. Overall, this has been a positive experience for our library, and I hope that we can do it again next summer.

See coverage of the program in the Local News

Carol Derosier, Children’s Librarian

East Smithfield Public Library

Sensory Storytime Support Group Fills Needed Service

Mon, 14 May 2018 20:03:42 GMT

Storytime has always been a cherished memory and early exposure for families who engage with libraries. Sometimes though, families who have children who are distracted easily or have different needs do not feel comfortable attending. Sensory Storytime fills that gap and provides a service for community members.

“I’ve been on a mission to promote sensory storytime,” said Maria Cotto from the Pawtucket Public Library. “I learned about it first at an OLIS continuing education program where I saw a Librarian from the Brooklyn Public Library explain how to implement a sensory story time.

Sensory Storytime is an interactive, educational storytime for children preschool age to 8 years old with autism and/or sensory challenges, but all children are welcome. It involves books, picture schedule, songs, movement, felt board and therapeutic play that incorporate the five senses.

Maria started the program at her library after learning about it five years ago.

With her personal experience of raising a child with autism, she saw knew that she wanted to offer this at her library. Once she started creating it, she found that other librarians wanted to join in.

Barbara Wells, from the Greenville Public Library is part of the Support Group. She has been hosting Sensory Storytime for about a year and a half.

“I started with one program,” said Wells. “It took some time to learn about it and get it initially started, gathering the materials and planning the stories. But once it got started, we got a good response.”

Wells has also engaged with community partners and promoting the Sensory Storytime with The Autism Project and the Rhode Island Consortium for Autism Research and Treatment.

“Engaging with our community partners has been great,” said Wells. “They are putting the word out and bringing the people to our library.”

That’s the biggest reward that they’ve both found- the community's positive response.

“We are able to connect families to the library,” says Cotto. “We let them know that they don’t have to be alone and that they are part of the community. Parents may feel that their children are too disruptive for the library, but we want to make the library a welcoming place for them.”

Wells agrees.

“As families continue to attend the sensory story time children begin to feel welcome and make friends,” she said. “The best part is seeing these families visiting the library besides attending the story time. They feel comfortable and a part of the library community, while connecting with other families. I’ve met some families who didn't’ go out because they didn’t know where to bring their child and now they know that the library is a place they can be a part of.”

The Sensory Support Group connects the libraries in RI who are offering this service. Currently, about five libraries are involved.

“We had our first meeting there was so much excitement,” said Cotto. “We were sharing our experiences and getting ideas of what we can do next.”

Anyone is welcome to learn more about Sensory Storytime. Check out the Rhode Island Facebook Group or email risensorystorytime@gmail.com

Libraries and Local Farmers Markets Create Community

Mon, 14 May 2018 16:48:48 GMT

What do you do when you have a successful outdoor library program every summer? If you are the East Providence Public Library, you find a way to use your beautiful outdoor space in a new and exciting way. You apply for a grant and even when you don’t get it, you are not dismayed. Your passion for the project - a Farmers’ Market - drives you forward. Naturally, this project will meet the library’s programming goal of building and strengthening community. At best, the project will be embraced by patrons and residents, city officials, and library staff, and it will be sustainable for years to come. At worst, it will be a 12-week learning experience, full of fun, challenges, hard work, and a fresh, new network of farmers, producers, businessmen, musicians, artists, educators, journalists, photographers, farmers’ market supporters and customers who learn about the library and its vital role in the community.

We are pleased to announce that the Weaver Library Farmers’ Market will open for its fifth year on June 21, 2018. For the next twelve weeks, hundreds of people will arrive on the Weaver lawn to purchase fresh vegetables, fruits, seafood, eggs, balsamic vinegar, baked goods, granola, plants, flowers, honey, and other goods from local farms and small businesses. Each Thursday, customers of all ages will shop to live music and, on many market days, enjoy special children’s programming such as concerts, arts and crafts, pop-up-play, ice cream socials, and special guests such as Max Man, RI’s recycling hero. It makes for a lively afternoon in the neighborhood and the library is at the center of it.

When we opened the market in 2013, some asked why a library would consider a role in the local food system. Our response was simple. Why wouldn’t a library want to use one of its beautiful, natural resources to provide the community with fresh, wholesome food, and support farmers and small businesses in the process? Why wouldn’t a library want to reconnect its community with the food they eat and, especially, the people who grow it? It is our belief that Farmers Markets, like libraries, are about the people. Both engage folks in learning, interacting, and enjoying new experiences. Both create relationships as do libraries. Finally, Farmers’ Markets may be seasonal, but they speak to the future of our communities and the state as do libraries!

We are librarians and stories still mean everything to us. When customers and vendors tell us that they love the community spirit present at the market or millennials praise the market’s “vibe”, we beam. One young couple, who often travel out of state for work, said that the library and the Farmers’ Market gave them a needed sense of home. Another woman related how proud she was that her hometown finally had a Farmers’ Market. It gave her one more reason to come to the library.

While there are many social benefits to a library Farmers’ Market, being able to offer SNAP/EBT, Bonus Bucks, WIC, and Senior Coupons, has allowed us to serve all members of our community. The library could not have done this on its own however. Grant funds from the fabulous Farm Fresh RI have made this possible.

Joyce May

Assistant Library Director, East Providence Public Library

Weaver Library Farmers Market Facebook Page

Public Broadband in Rhode Island

Mon, 14 May 2018 16:02:22 GMT

Public broadband in Rhode Island is possible and can help ensure net neutrality. Hundreds of communities throughout the United States have already developed programs that provide municipal internet access at faster speeds than is presently available on the open market. While the principles of net neutrality are great, they do not do enough to ensure that all Americans are provided with access to information. Communities can design programs so that the principles of net neutrality are ensured.

To use healthcare as a metaphor, net neutrality is akin to the ACA while public broadband is more like universal healthcare. The ACLU has recently launched “The Public Internet Option”, a national effort to educate people about public broadband. A wealth of resources are available online and there are a growing number of communities with initiatives presently underway, notably Cambridge, MA and the state of Kentucky. There are several successful programs, especially in Chatanooga, TN. The digital economy in areas that adopt public broadband experiences tremendous growth due to the faster speeds and better connectivity that public broadband provides. More information and a robust community can be found at muninetworks.org. The Post Road Foundation, a new nonprofit devoted to providing resources to support public connectivity, has recently received substantial funding from the Rockefeller Foundation. Public broadband systems can be devised in numerous ways. Chatanooga has developed a system that operates public broadband in much the same way that municipal water departments operate. Other communities develop systems that rely on public-private partnerships.

In Rhode Island, we have a unique and exciting opportunity because as a small state we can hopefully institute a statewide program. Any public broadband option would gain popularity among the general public as a potential cost savings. Additionally, speaking as a librarian who navigates the byzantine E-Rate system, a public system would greatly reduce the stress level of librarians and teachers who are subjected to that system on a nearly continuous basis.

Brendan Ryan

Technical Services Librarian,

Providence Athenæum

bryan@provath.org

East Greenwich School Librarian Position Threatened - Community Rallies, Future Unknown

Thu, 15 Mar 2018 14:29:46 GMT

Due to volatile town politics and other agendas, East Greenwich school librarians are getting the short stick. The East Greenwich School Libraries’ budget has been zero dollars for the past three years. No new books or resources have been purchased since 2014. The most current Town Budget level funded the East Greenwich School System and this has led the School Committee to remove the high school library media specialist position. The East Greenwich community has noticed this and is taking action. Will this be enough to gain the attention of town officials?

“The good thing is that (the school librarian issue) is creating a lot of awareness about what librarians do,” says Maura Keating, East Greenwich resident and co-chair of the RILA ILART Roundtable. “Parents did not know about what the librarians do at school and are a now little more concerned.”

“I’m familiar with the situation, but I was surprised how many residents didn’t know what was going on,” said Kimberly Kinzie, resident and member of Engaged East Greenwich, a local Facebook group dedicated to events in town. “I’d be at the bus stop and telling people that we didn’t have a high school librarian. People were just not aware of the situation, they didn’t know what was going on, but they are horrified when they know.”

Once they knew, the community started to speak up. There are now three grassroots groups -- “The EG Library Lions”, “Engaged East Greenwich” and “Creating Good EGGs” -- comprised of concerned citizens that have hosted numerous events; from poetry slams, creating “Little Free Libraries” around the town that collect books specifically from the high school reading list to creating a petition website.

“East Greenwich prides itself on the quality of its public schools,” said Kate Goldman, a parent and member of Creating Good EGGs (East Greenwich + Global). “The fact that we are not meeting our students' needs or even complying with basic standards is an outrage and stands in direct opposition to what we believe our community to be.”

This community effort has captured the attention of local school and town officials.

"In a very short period of time we had to make some significant decisions,” said Carolyn Mark, Chair of the East Greenwich School Committee. “We were hoping that this was a temporary situation. It was a reasonable decision in an awful situation.”

Before they made the cut, the East Greenwich School Committee didn’t know that they couldn’t share school librarians between schools. The previous middle school library media specialist retired and the Committee decided to fill the position with the current high school library media specialist, leaving the high school position empty. This decision will cost the school district accreditation issues in the future.

“Properly staffing library media resources is considered essential in our accreditation,” said Mark. “It's a concern in the long run - we are responsible and the school board can to respond to and remedy the situation."

Some residents fear that elementary school media specialists in East Greenwich will be transferred to the high school, leaving the lower-level schools with less support. In the last seven years, three of the East Greenwich Teachers of the Year have been Library Media Specialists (Phyllis Humphrey, 2016; Beth Gorter, 2015; and Connie Zack, 2011)

"We can't move them, it's not an option,” said Mark. “We have rock star library media specialists in elementary schools and they are essential media school teachers."

Even with this information, the exact details of what will happen next is still unclear.

“We had to agree to disagree to make this choice,” says Mark. “Things did not work out the way we hoped this year, but I'm hoping that it will be remedied.”

Currently, the School Committee is creating the upcoming school year budget. They do know that they will be receiving $400,000 of Rhode Island State Aid.

That's going to help,” said Mark. “But we have others costs that are increasing within the school too. The hope is that we are able to come in with a more reasonable request to the town. If they do level fund us, then we'll have to make some very hard decisions about eliminating programs for the next school year."

This decision won’t be made until the School Committee submits the budget to the town and then the budget goes up for public hearings. The earliest any decision will be made would be in June 2018.

What can the RILA and Rhode Island library community do to support this situation?

“As an EG resident, I would appreciate any efforts by the RI library community to publicize this issue,” says Goldman. “If anyone in the RI library community is interested, in helping with collecting books for the Little Free Libraries, I can help them get started.”

RILA has also been vocal about the issue. Last fall RILA wrote a letter to the East Greenwich school superintendent and school committee protesting the closure of the high school library and advocating for the hiring of a full time credentialed school library media specialist. In January the president of RILA Kieran Ayton, attended a poetry slam for the East Greenwich High School Library where he was able to share RILA's support with the East Greenwich community.

As members of the RI Library Community, we need to speak up and continue to promote the importance of libraries.

“You should be talking about what the value of libraries do and continue to talk,” says Keating. “If you stay silent and worry then they’ll come for you next. Be positive—talk about the impact that you have to your students and community—it is not just about books. It is the last thing that these librarians do—it is the last part of their jobs. School library media specialists do so much more.”

Layer on the Learning- My Experience at Fred Pryor Seminars

Mon, 12 Mar 2018 14:41:53 GMT

By Babs Wells, Children’s Librarian at Greenville Public Library

I recently attended a one-day seminar on the topic of management and leadership. It was facilitated by Fred Pryor Seminars, according to their website they offer 10,000 award winning training options live and online to satisfy learning needs across the United States and Canada.

We dove right in at 9:00 am by introducing ourselves. I was the only public librarian in attendance. I met people who worked in all kinds of professions. It was a diverse bunch of folks.

The facilitator told us right out of the gate that she didn’t plan on doing most of the talking or lecturing. She briefly shared what the day would look like and that we would have two short breaks with an hour for lunch.

I have participated in a myriad of workshops, conferences and roundtables that are related to being a librarian, and usually know most of the people who are at these events and programs. It feels comfortable and familiar.

The Fred Pryor seminar placed me in a room where I didn’t know anyone in a format that was completely outside my comfort zone. Early into the morning we broke into small groups to work on one of the many assignments we were given throughout day. At first there was that feeling of uncomfortable silence when one begins to think to themselves, "Who is going to break the ice?."

As the day went on it became very interesting to get to know people whose professions are entirely unlike mine but I discovered we also had much in common. There were various strategies and concepts that were explored and shared that can be applied to being a leader whether you work as a department head in a public library, as a banquet captain in a restaurant, as a supervisor at a private catering event or as a manager of groundskeepers at several large cemeteries.

The facilitator had many catch phrases that she tossed out to sum up key points. She called these cheers, AHA’s. Chunk it Out! What gets measured gets done! Be Present! One team One Dream! I found this to be entertaining especially when she asked us to shout out as a group, “You are awesome!"

As I look over my notes along with the workbook we were given I have been inspired to implement some of the techniques and ways of communicating that I learned on that day. I am also excited to explore different concepts and theories that will assist me into growing as a person and a leader.

I highly recommend you to step out beyond the world of libraries to see what may be around the next corner. You just might be inspired to look at your profession with a new perspective.

Senator Reed Helps Boost Funding for IMLS

Thu, 09 Jun 2016 19:57:53 GMT

Senator Reed has helped secure an increase of $314,000 for the IMLS Grants to States program (to $156,103,000) and the same increase for the National Library Leadership grants (to $13,406,000) over FY16 levels in the bill passed by the Senate Appropriations Committee today. Hurdles remain to get to a final spending bill, but this is great news.

OLIS receives approximately half its funding from IMLS and uses these funds to support OLIS activities and programs such as Summer Reading, Continuing Education, Talking Books Plus, and more. Please note that this increase is for the national program, not just for OLIS, but all states, including RI will benefit.

Please see the Senator's press release here:
http://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/us-senate-advances-measure-to-boost-funding-for-medical-research-public-libraries-and-opioid-abuse-prevention
OLIS receives approximately half its funding from IMLS and uses these funds to support OLIS activities and programs such as Summer Reading, Continuing Education, Talking Books Plus, and more. Please note that this increase is for the national program, not just for OLIS, but all states, including RI will benefit.
Please see the Senator's press release here:
http://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/us-senate-advances-measure-to-boost-funding-for-medical-research-public-libraries-and-opioid-abuse-prevention
Also see the news in ALA's District Dispatch:
http://www.districtdispatch.org/2016/06/good-news-library-funding-senate-appropriations-committee/

Join Us for Library Libations on Thursday, April 28 at 5:00 pm

Fri, 15 Apr 2016 16:03:01 GMT

You're Invited!

The Rhode Island Library Association and the New England Library Association invite you to the first Library Libations after-work event. Come and enjoy a drink with fellow librarians at the new location of the Malted Barley in Providence from 5 to 7 pm on Thursday, April 28.

Warm pretzels, craft beer, library love, and you!

The Malted Barley
334 Westminster St.
Providence, RI

Hosted by your NELA state representative, Jessica D'Avanza.
For questions contact jessicad@barringtonlibrary.org.

Rhode Island Senate Passes Resolutino in support of National Library Week and RI Library Day

Fri, 15 Apr 2016 15:57:45 GMT

Thank you to Senators Hanna Gallo, Cindy Coyne, Paul Fogarty, Roger Picard, and Adam Satchell for introducing this resolution. Particular thanks to Senator Gallo for coordinating this public statement in support of Rhode Island's libraries. Check out the full text of the resolution!

Forum on school library intellectual freedom issues

Wed, 09 Mar 2016 15:21:42 GMT

The RILA Intellectual Freedom Committee is planning a public forum on intellectual freedom issues in school libraries. The committee is looking for panelists who can speak to student confidentiality, challenges to the content of books, films, games, websites accessible in the library, and labeling of books and other media according to grade level.

Panelists can include school librarians, teachers, public librarians, children’s librarians, parents, school committee members, and administrators. Please let us know if you are interested in serving on this panel and forward suggestions to us for names of other people who might be interested. We will be advertising the event so that we can reach out to the community, including teachers, parents, administrators, school committee members and other interested parties.

The questions below may be asked of the panelists and we hope to include the audience in discussing these questions.

Topics:

Who determines what materials (books, other media) are acquired or accessed in the library and do these suggestions need to be reviewed?
How is the library organized?
Are items cataloged and/or arranged by subject, age-appropriate levels, or other?
How are these levels determined: librarians (through use of books reviews and school library magazines), administrators, school committees?
Is there a policy where permission is granted to parents or guardians to see what books have been charged out?
How is the choice of websites, games, programs, etc. determined? Librarians, administrators, school committees, etc.?
Have there been any challenges by parents, school committees, etc. against materials available in the libraries? And how was it resolved.

Please respond by April 1 to the Intellectual Freedom Committee co-chairs, Jim Kinnie (jkinnie@uri.edu) and Carla Weiss (cmweiss8@gmail.com).

Money Smart Week is coming!!

Wed, 09 Mar 2016 15:20:20 GMT

Money Smart Week 2016 is only 6 weeks away! If your library is hosting a financial literacy program during the week of April 23-30, we want to hear about it. Please post your event on the Money Smart Week Partner site, or email the details to us and we will do it for you.

There is still time to schedule a program and the Money Smart Week RI website has a wonderful list of program ideas and contacts for you to explore, including banking programs for all ages from Home Loan Investment Bank and cyber security/online safety from the RI State Police Cyber Terrorism Unit. In accordance with Money Smart Week national guidelines, all programs are void of sales pitches and free to your library.

For more Money Smart Week RI resources, including the resource list, logos, the MSW 2016 Media Kit and links to the national calendar, please visit the new MSW RI website at http://rilibraries.org/Money-Smart-Week. If you have any questions, please email the Financial Literacy Round Table co-Chairs at FLRT@rilibraries.org.

Nominate Someone for our New Outstanding Library Paraprofessional Award

Tue, 01 Mar 2016 21:58:20 GMT

RILA is pleased to announce a new award category this year and we’re currently seeking nominations for the very first Outstanding Library Paraprofessional. Paraprofessionals are integral to library operations and deserve credit for their important roles in our libraries. The annual RILA awards process provides the opportunity for special recognition of the accomplishments, service, and commitment of our colleagues and associates. The RILA Executive Board encourages nominations of committed and deserving support staff for this new award.

Nominations are due by April 1, 2016.

Criteria for Outstanding Library Paraprofessional Award

This purpose of this award is to recognize a library staff member in a non-degreed support position who has made a significant contribution to the library work environment and/or libraries in Rhode Island. The nominee must demonstrate excellence in one or more of the following areas:

Excels in his/her area of expertise and delivers exemplary service across operations at all levels;
Promotes the development and recognition of the paraprofessional as an important and vital member of the library workforce;
Plans and implements innovative and effective library programming or services;
Increases public knowledge and understanding of library resources, needs, and uses;
Develops relationships and fosters collaboration between all staff/departments;
Serves the profession through local or regional committees and organizations.

Awards will be presented at the Annual Conference in May 2016. The RILA Executive Board will determine award recipients based on letters of recommendation.

Please send nomination letters to:

Jenifer Bond, Associate Director

Krupp Library

Bryant University

1150 Douglas Pike

Smithfield, RI 02917

Please share this call for nominations at your libraries. Thank you!

Job Opportunity: Research and Education Librarian Postion at Dartmouth Biomedical Libraries at Dartmouth College

Thu, 11 Feb 2016 14:25:14 GMT

Research and Education Librarian

The Biomedical Libraries at Dartmouth College are recruiting a Research and Education Librarian. The Biomedical Libraries support clinicians, faculty, researchers, and students in medical sciences, biological sciences and public health. We seek an early-career librarian to join a team of service-focused research and education librarians. This position provides research and education services to the Geisel School of Medicine, the Department of Biological Sciences, The Dartmouth Institute for Health Policy and Clinical Practice, and the Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center.

ROLE

The successful candidate will work with a highly collaborative, supportive, experienced team to develop or enhance the skills necessary to conduct literature searches, teach in the curriculum, conduct systematic reviews, and participate in educational programs. Daily activities may include teaching workshops, working with small groups, creating instructional materials such as LibGuides/Research Guides, and consulting individually with patrons. The ideal candidate will be creative, methodical, progressive, and versatile, and will contribute to existing and emerging services.

QUALIFICATIONS

ALA-accredited degree in library and/or information science, or a combination of an advanced subject or professional degree and relevant academic library work experience. Preference will be given to candidates with a background in or an enthusiasm for the health or life sciences.

RANK AND SALARY

This is an entry-level Librarian Professional I position in the Dartmouth College Library Classification System of Professional Ranks. Salary is commensurate with experience and qualifications. Full benefits package including 22 vacation days; comprehensive health care; retirement plans, including TIAA-CREF; and relocation assistance.

GENERAL INFORMATION

The mission of the Biomedical Libraries is to provide health and life sciences information resources and services that advance research and scholarship, education, and patient-care activities. The Biomedical Libraries consist of the Dana Biomedical Library on the Dartmouth campus and the Matthews-Fuller Health Sciences Library at the Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center.

Dartmouth College, located in scenic Hanover, New Hampshire, is one of the top institutions of higher learning, and consistently ranked among the best teaching colleges in the United States. Dartmouth consists of four schools—Arts & Sciences, the Geisel School of Medicine, the Thayer School of Engineering, and the Tuck School of Business. As part of the Dartmouth College Library system of nine libraries, the Biomedical Libraries seek to foster intellectual growth and advance the teaching and research missions of the university by supporting excellence and innovation in education and research, managing and delivering scholarly content, and partnering in the development and dissemination of new scholarship.

Boston and Montreal are within a two- to three-hour drive from Hanover, NH.

For more information and to apply for this position, visit: https://searchjobs.dartmouth.edu/postings/35515.

Review of applications will begin immediately.

Annual LANES Storytelling Conference in April with a Special Offer

Wed, 20 Jan 2016 18:26:42 GMT

The League for the Advancement of Northeast Storytelling (LANES) is holding its 35th annual Sharing the Fire Storytelling Conference at the UMass Hotel & Conference Center in Amherst April 1-3. Some of the best storytellers in the Northeast will be presenting. The conference, which has the theme Storytelling in a Changing World, is for both advanced and aspiring storytellers. Members of RILA might be interested in attending the conference, and LANES is offering members of RILA, who would be new members of LANES, free membership for those signing up for the full registration at the member price of $235. The membership fee is normally $55. Visit http://lanes.org/ for more details about the conference.

If you are interested in attending the conference, please put the code (RILIB) after your last name and do not check off the membership box on your registration form so your free membership will be more easily flagged and set up.

Salem (Conn.) Town Librarian Position Open

Sat, 16 Jan 2016 18:01:42 GMT

Salem library is well supported by the Salem community and Friends of the Salem Library. The Town Librarian develops and implements library policy, proposes a yearly budget, manages staff and volunteers, oversees library facilities and acquisitions, submits state and local reports, stays current in library science and applies for grants. The position is a 37-hour work week with benefits. The position requires a Master of Library Science with 3 or more years of experience required. Please send resume with cover letter to lisa.jablonski@salemct.gov <mailto:lisa.jablonski@salemct.go> . closing date January 25, 2016. The Town of Salem is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Citizenfour Film Screening & Tor Browser Demo

Wed, 13 Jan 2016 17:20:40 GMT

Attend a free public screening of the documentary film “Citzenfour” on Sunday, January 31 at 1:30 pm at Barrington Public Library. This Academy Award winning film is about whistleblower Edward Snowden and the documents he leaked in 2013 to two journalists that exposed the massive surveillance efforts of the NSA.

Before the film, there will be a demo of Tor browser, featured in the documentary and used by Edward Snowden and journalists Laura Poitras and Glenn Greenwald. Tor network is a group of volunteer operated servers that allows people to improve their privacy and security on the Internet. The demo and time for Q&A will be led by Nima Fatemi of The Tor Project and The Library Freedom Project.

The film is rated R and is 114 minutes in length. This free public screening is sponsored by Friends of Barrington Public Library and Rhode Island Library Association.

Barrington Public Library is located at 281 County Road, Barrington, RI. Visit on the web atwww.barringtonlibrary.org or call 401-247-1920 or find on Facebook,Twitter and Instagram @BarringtonPLRI.

Rhode Island Teen Book Award Voting

Mon, 11 Jan 2016 20:30:10 GMT

January 11-February 22

It’s that time of year again! Along with the change in calendars comes the time when the teens of Rhode Island get a chance to pick the book they think is best they have read, from a list selected by teachers, public librarians, and school library media specialists. That’s right! It is election time for the 2016 Rhode Island Teen Book Award!

Where can our teens in grades 7-12 vote? Well, they can do it in their schools and local public libraries. Interested schools and libraries can find a basic sample ballot that can be adapted for use on the Rhode Island Teen Book Award website at http://riteenbookaward.org/.

Participating schools and libraries may accept teens' ballots. Remember, teens are only eligible to if they have read at least three titles from the nominee list. Voting results should be emailed to teenlibrarianbrandi@gmail.com.

Results due by Monday, February 22nd at the latest.

3rd Annual RI Author Expo to be at Lincoln Mall on December 5

Thu, 03 Dec 2015 20:16:32 GMT

The Association of Rhode Island Authors (ARIA) announces that the 3rd Annual Rhode Island Author Expo will be held on Saturday, December 5th from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Lincoln Mall.

The Expo will feature over 100 published Rhode Island authors highlighted by Jon Land (Strong Light of Day), Claudine Pepin (Lets Cook French), Thomas Cobb (Darkness the Color of Snow) and Sean Faye Wolf (The Elementia Chronicles). Books on display from participating authors will be from a wide variety of genres including romance, mystery, horror, history, biography and children's. Hundreds of autographed books will be available for purchase and a list of all participating authors is posted on ARIA's website, www.RIAuthors.org/riexpo. Parking and admission to the event will be free.

In addition to book signings, the expo will feature children’s story times and a variety of presentations.

The Lincoln Mall is located at 622 George Washington Highway in Lincoln, conveniently located near the intersection of Route 146 and Route 295.

The Rhode Island Authors Expo is co-sponsored by The GRC Bluebook, Pawtucket Credit Union, The Independent Publishers of New England (IPNE), Wakefield Books, DropCards and Cardi's.

The Association of Rhode Island Authors (ARIA) is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization of local, published writers of both fiction and non-fiction committed to raising awareness of the outstanding written works crafted by writers in Rhode Island. More information about the group can be found on its website www.RIAuthors.org.

Financial Literacy @ Your Library

Thu, 03 Dec 2015 15:41:51 GMT

Tuesday, January 05, 2016

2 p.m. - 4 p.m.

Marian J. Mohr Memorial Library 1 Memorial Avenue, Johnston, RI 02919

Want to learn more about financial literacy programming and resources that are available in your community? The Office of Library and Information Services, the Rhode Island Library Association and the OLIS Multi-Type Reference Group are joining forces to assist librarians in developing and promoting financial education programs at libraries across the state.

Meet representatives from financial organizations who have partnered with libraries during RILA's Money Smart Week and can offer resources and programming. This is a great opportunity to learn more about financial education programs your library may offer during Money Smart Week, which will take place April 23-30, 2016.

Learn about the federal Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) partnership with libraries. Printed resources will be available to libraries. Don't miss this opportunity to learn about the resources and programs available so that your library can join financial literacy awareness.

Registration required

Intended Audience:
Library staff who coordinates Financial Literacy programming for all ages.

In the event of cancellation due to weather, the make-up date is scheduled for January 26, 2-4 pm at the Mohr Library.

For more information, please contact Lori DeCesare (JOH) or Chris Goldstein (WNS), co-chairs of the Financial Literacy Round Table

Presenters wanted for 2016 RILA conference!

Thu, 03 Dec 2015 15:06:40 GMT

Please share this email with all of the library professionals you know! The Rhode Island Library Association Conference Committee is now taking proposals for the 2016 conference on May 25th and 26th. There are many ways to participate including lightening rounds, full presentations, digital poster sessions, and more. We want to hear your ideas!

This is a great opportunity to share your expertise, build your resume, and network with amazing librarians from New England! This is the only Rhode Island conference that brings together public, academic, school, and special librarians. We are looking for timely, high quality presentations by passionate presenters. If this describes you, fill out a proposal today! For more information, visit our official conference page or email rilaconference@gmail.com.

Proposals are due by Saturday, January 16. Click here for the RFP.

Save the Date for the 2016 RILA Conference

Tue, 17 Nov 2015 22:46:02 GMT

RILA Presents:
Coloring Outside the Lines

Wednesday May 25 & Thursday May 26, 2016 – Crowne Plaza, Warwick RI

Join RILA as we present a bigger and more interactive conference experience. Whether you are looking to be rejuvenated, inspired, or develop a particular skill, we will have something for you! Connect with your colleagues from around the region and share what is working, what you want to grow, and how your library is making awesome things happen. Plus, be sure not to miss out on an exciting after hours event on Wednesday evening for those who want to keep the party going!

PROPOSALS

We are now accepting proposals for the 2016 conference! Do you have A conference app to help you plan your sessions, share your experience on social media, and more!

· Fill out the proposal form HERE.

· All submissions are due by

NEW THIS YEAR

· A conference app to help you plan your sessions, share your experience on social media, and more!

· More vendors and exhibitors!

· Digital Poster sessions available all day!

· Members of any New England state library association or the regional New England Library Association (NELA) can register at the Rhode Island Member rate through the early bird deadline!

About the Location

The Crowne Plaza Hotel at the Crossings

801 Greenwich Ave, Warwick, RI 02886
(401) 732-6000

This year’s location is seconds off of Rt. 95 and just 2 miles from T.F. Green Airport and the Amtrak/MBTA train station. Ample free parking. Dozens of shopping, entertainment, and restaurant opportunities are located within another 2 miles of the hotel.

Amenities include an Italian restaurant and a library-style lounge with a fireplace. There's also an indoor pool, a fitness center and a business center, as well as 21 meeting rooms and free parking. Pets are permitted for a fee.

Be sure to tell the hotel you are booking your room as a RILA participant for the best rate!

Rhode Island Job Opening: Library Program Specialist – State Data Coordinator

Thu, 12 Nov 2015 14:26:14 GMT

OLIS is seeking a Library Program Specialist to serve as State Data Coordinator. The position also includes work in the area of library development.

For further information, please visit the full job listing on the OLIS Jobline.

The NELA section, New England Roundtable of Teen and Children's Librarians (NERTCL) is looking for Rhode Island members!

Tue, 10 Nov 2015 17:52:40 GMT

Here is a bit of information about NERTCL. We plan the youth services sessions (about 8-9) at the NELA Annual Conference, including an author luncheon. We also plan a spring one-day standalone every other year. We are working on holding meet-ups as well. We would very much like to have a representative from every state. We try to hold our meetings in each state so that there is at least one meeting where the rep doesn't have to drive far. If you know anyone who would be interested in being our RI state rep, could you send them my or Kara's (kreiman@westbrook.me.us) information?

Media Smart Libraries Workshop - Starting and Growing a Film Program: Elementary Through High School

Mon, 09 Nov 2015 16:15:23 GMT

Media Smart Libraries invites you to a workshop in partnership with RISCA that will help you learn about implementing a film program in your library.

Starting and Growing a Film Program: Elementary Through High School

Thursday, November 19, 2015
4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Newport Art Museum
Series: Media Smart Libraries

Presenter(s)/Discussion Leader(s): Brien Jennings, School Media Specialist, Narragansett Elementary School; Nick Marcoux, Trinity Academy for the Performing Arts; Katie Reaves, Beacon School for the Arts; GiveMe5

This two part workshop focuses on developing, implementing, and sustaining film programming for children. Part one is a panel discussion with three Rhode Island educators who will share their experiences with film and media education, including their challenges, successes, and curriculum development. Part two is a presentation from GiveMe5 on their new consulting service for educators and librarians, in which they provide guidance, support, and services for schools and organizations to grow their film and media programming.

This workshop is part of the Media Smart Libraries program which was made possible in part by the Institute of Museum and Library Services. GiveMe5 is sponsored by The Rhode Island Film and Television Office in conjunction with The Rhode Island State Council on the Arts.

Registration required. Please register on the OLIS CE website Limited to 25 participants.

Intended Audience: Public Youth Services Librarians, School Librarians (K-12)

Call for Vendor Recommendations for the Annual Conference!

Wed, 28 Oct 2015 14:36:38 GMT

The RILA Conference Committee is expanding the vendor exhibit area this year and wants to know who you love! Do you have a vendor that you think other libraries would like as well? Do you have a need for a vendor and want us to help you find one? This year we are in a much larger space, so the goal is to have twice as many vendors! We are looking for suggestions of vendors that you currently use or would like to learn more about at the RILA Conference. If you currently use a vendor that you’d like to recommend, or have a vendor or a vendor need that you’d like to see, please email rilaconference@gmail.com and put “Vendor” in the subject line. We look forward to making this the best RILA conference experience possible. Thank you for your input!

Melissa Chiavaroli & Erin Creighton

Two More School Librarians Recognized as Teachers of the Year

Tue, 27 Oct 2015 21:33:49 GMT

Congrats to Suzanne Lynch, Beth Gorter, Joan Mouradjian, and Jennifer Robinson on the recognition of their great work. They really exemplify the wonderful things school librarians are doing across the state!

Two More School Librarians Recognized as Teachers of the Year

Even as Position is Valued by Colleagues, Districts are Cutting Staffing and Funding

RHODE ISLAND - OCTOBER 27, 2015 - Two more school librarians were named 2015 Teacher of the Year in their districts; Suzanne Lynch of Stony Lane and Forest Park Elementary Schools in North Kingstown and Beth Gorter of Hanaford Elementary in East Greenwich join Joan Mouradjian of Narragansett Middle School in Narragansett and Jennifer Robinson of Thompson Middle School in Newport as honorees this year. In 2014, three other school librarians received the honor. Ironically, four of these seven districts have cut library staffing and/or funding for the current school year:

Coventry: As the district moves to Chromebooks, librarians are being given tech duties, reducing time to teach students library skills. There is no book budget - at the Feinstein Middle School, 2014 Teacher of the Year Susan Murphy’s budget has gone from $7,500 to $0 in just a few years.
East Greenwich:While positions were spared this year after being on the chopping block, budgets were obliterated. 2015 Teacher of the Year Beth Gorter’s Hanaford Elementary went from $3,000 for collection development last year to $0.
Newport: 2015 Teacher of the Year Jennifer Robinson has gone from having a half-time assistant librarian and full-time clerk two years ago to being a solo practitioner.
North Kingstown: Many positions have been chiseled away for the past several years; this year, the Davisville Middle School position was cut from full-time to .6.

“The fact that 7 out of 36 districts have recognized the work done by school librarians as educators shows that fellow teachers appreciate the value the position - and the highly trained professionals who fill it - brings to both their students and their colleagues,” says Sarah Hunicke of Portsmouth High School, president of School Librarians of Rhode Island (SLRI). “Unfortunately, some school committees see the library department as dispensable. But research has shown a correlation between school library programs and student achievement. When a school district thinks that cutting certified school librarians is an easy way to save money, they may actually end up costing themselves more in the long run.”

About SLRI - www.slri.info - @SchLibRI

The purpose of School Librarians of Rhode Island shall be to (1) promote the improvement of instruction through opportunities that broaden the professional knowledge, understanding, and experience of its members; (2) provide leadership in defining, interpreting, and promoting effective library media programs to the community; and (3) serve as facilitator between the State Department of Education, Office of Library and Information Services, professional organizations, and the general public.

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RILA Collaborates with COLA & OLIS on Privacy Event for Trustees, Friends, and Other Library Advocates

Sat, 10 Oct 2015 17:24:36 GMT

The Office of Library and Information Services (OLIS), the Coalition of Library Advocates (COLA), and the RI Library Association (RILA) are joining forces again to present a stimulating program on the important role of library trustees in preserving and protecting patrons’ intellectual freedom and privacy rights. Participants will engage in thought-provoking discussions and interactive exercises to facilitate better understanding of why privacy matters to everyone.

This session is recommended for library trustees, library directors, and others interested in policy, privacy and intellectual freedom.

Our speaker, Nancy Kranich, was President of the American Library Association from 2000 to 2001. She currently teaches at the Rutgers University School of Communication and Information and conducts special projects for the Rutgers University Libraries. Previously, Nancy served as Associate Dean of Libraries at New York University.

Nancy will examine the differences between confidentiality and privacy, the need for libraries to adopt privacy policies, the importance of understanding the relationship between privacy and the First Amendment, and privacy rights of youth. She will also familiarize trustees with helpful resources such as the ALA Privacy Toolkit. Attendees will leave this session with an understanding of why the library must remain a bastion for both free expression and privacy.

A tireless advocate for free and open access to information, Nancy has spoken out against censorship, filtering, secrecy, privatization, and other attempts to limit the public’s information rights. She also spearheaded ALA's right to know, information commons, and civic engagement initiatives, fostered the development of ALA's privacy and filtering toolkits, formed the Coalition on Government Information, and established the James Madison Awards honoring champions of public access to information. She has testified several times before Congress, attended annual legislative days at the state and national levels, and participated in several White House and Congressional briefings

A light supper will be provided.

Those interested in registering for this program can do so at http://www.olis.ri.gov/services/ce/individual.php?code=corn1112.

Join us to celebrate "October is Information Literacy Month!"

Tue, 06 Oct 2015 18:43:20 GMT

The Rhode Island Library Association (RILA) and the School Librarians of Rhode Island (SLRI) invite you to the third annual October is Information Literacy Month Celebration: Celebrating Life Long Learning Across Rhode Island!

Celebrating Life Long Learning Across Rhode Island!

October 26th, 4 – 6:30 pm at Cranston Public Library (Central)

140 Sockanosset Cross Rd Cranston, RI 02920

Celebrating Life Long Learning Across Rhode Island! will showcase examples of information literacy in public, school, academic and special library settings that demonstrate what information literacy looks like across RI libraries and how information literacy affects Rhode Islanders of every age.

A celebration of the importance of information literacy to the community is a great way to bring information literacy to life for the admin in your life. Invite your director, principal, dean, library board members, friends of your library, representatives of your administration, mayor or anyone else that might be interested to see information literacy in action.

The Information Literacy Showcase will feature food, fun, and information literacy. Tabletop presentations will allow attendees to explore the showcase in an “open house” environment. Attendees can meet and mingle with librarians while enjoying a catered spread. We look forward to celebrating information literacy and libraries with you!

Please RSVP by October 22, 2015

http://goo.gl/forms/u5CznNJ1UO

NELLS Reunion Brunch at NELA Conference

Thu, 01 Oct 2015 19:10:01 GMT

Hi everyone,

There will be a NELLS Reunion Brunch on Sunday, Oct. 25 at 10:00am. There is a $25 charge. NELLS Alumni (including mentors) are welcome to register at http://ams.nelib.org/event-2015805.

Please pass this on to anyone you know who was part of NELLS. We currently have about 20 people registered.

Thanks,
-- Deb

Deb Hoadley
NELA, Past President/2015 Conference Chair
603-819-1798 (cell)
dhoadley@nelib.org
http://nelib.org/

NEASC Standards

Thu, 01 Oct 2015 15:49:32 GMT

Laura Kohl is asking RILA members to take a look at the proposed NEASC Standards for Instituations of Higher Learning. If you have any feedback please contact her at lkohl@bryant.edu so she can share the reactions with the librarians who will be meeting with NEASC representatives.

NEASC has developed new proposed standards for accreditation for institutions of higher education in New England, with a December adoption date, which has removed library standard 7 from the standards. A group of librarians is going to meet with Barbara E. Brittingham, President of the Commission on institutions of Higher Education. We are seeking feedback from librarians across New England, in part for this meeting, and in part for a future statement by ACRL NEC.

Below please find relevant documents. The existing standards are useful for comparison purposes, and the white paper is useful for understanding why the library standard was removed.

Existing Standards: https://cihe.neasc.org/standards-policies/standards-accreditation

Draft Revised Standards: https://cihe.neasc.org/sites/cihe.neasc.org/files/downloads/New_of_the_Website/DRAFT_Standards_for_Accreditation_8.25.15.pdf

White paper describing the need for changes: https://cihe.neasc.org/sites/cihe.neasc.org/files/downloads/Standards_Revision_Process/StandardsRevisionDiscussionPaperJanuary2015.pdf

Laura Kohl

Head of Research & Instruction Services

Douglas & Judith Krupp Library

Bryant University

http://library.bryant.edu

ACRL New England Chapter RI State Representative

2016 Frances Henne/YALSA/VOYA (Voice of Youth Advocates) Research Grant

Mon, 28 Sep 2015 16:43:11 GMT

The Young Adult Library Services Association (YALSA), the fastest growing division of the American Library Association (ALA), is offering the Frances Henne/YALSA/VOYA (Voice of Youth Advocates) Research Grant for 2016. This grant of $1,000 provides seed money for small-scale projects that will encourage research that responds to the YALSA Research Agenda.

Details regarding the applications for the 2016 Frances Henne YALSA/VOYA Research Grant are available from the YALSA Web site at http://www.ala.org/yalsa/awardsandgrants/franceshenne. Applications for the grant are due in the YALSA Office by December 1, 2015. For more information please contact us via e-mail, yalsa@ala.org; or by phone: 1-800-545-2433 x 4387.

Amanda L. S. Murphy

Youth Services Assistant Manager

Warren-Trumbull County Public Library

Warren, Ohio

330-856-2011 ext. 511

The Book Cart

Sat, 26 Sep 2015 17:15:23 GMT

Calling all Librarians...

Please donate books to The Book Truck- bringing books directly to children in the inner city.

The Book Truck will give free books to inner city children by going directly to those neighbors were books are needed the most.

It will be convenient, safe and also a lot of fun.

With the help of RISD, we are creating something of an ice cream truck experience – but for books. With a sound system and alluring exterior, we will capture the imagination and attention, of elementary school kids -in places where the majority of children don’t have books of their own.

To donate books, or even your time,

Please contact Catherine Price at Mail@drcatherineprice.com

ILART Looking for Proposals for Information Literacy Month Celebration

Fri, 25 Sep 2015 17:22:12 GMT

The Rhode Island Library Association’s Information Literacy Action Round Table (ILART) is pleased to announce the third annual October is Information Literacy Month Celebration:

Celebrating Life Long Learning Across Rhode Island!

October 26th, 4 – 6:30 pm at Cranston Public Library (Central)

140 Sockanosset Cross Rd Cranston, RI 02920

Poster Sessions! Demonstrations! Show us your stuff!

Have you developed a great Info Lit technique, tutorial, or program that you’d like to share with other librarians? Tell us your story! Submit a proposal for the Information Literacy Showcase. We want to know about the success you've had teaching information literacy to your patrons in a public, school, academic or special library setting.

What to Expect:

The Information Literacy Showcase features simultaneous tabletop presentations (poster or multimedia), which allows attendees to explore the showcase, ask questions of presenters and network with librarians at their own pace.

Proposal Guidelines Format:

In 150 words or less, please provide a brief description of your tabletop presentation, including relevant links to online IL resources, and give a short explanation of how your presentation will relate to the event theme. Topics can focus on blended learning, community programs, national standards, STEM/STEAM and many others. You will be notified via e-mail if your proposal has been selected.

Submit your proposal by Thursday, October 8th by completing the form at:

http://goo.gl/forms/uqYHCNgKxI

You will be notified via e-mail by October 13 if your proposal has been selected.

Media Smart Libraries Workshop Announcement

Wed, 23 Sep 2015 14:21:55 GMT

URI’s Graduate School of Library and Information Studies is the recipient of an IMLS grant to implement the Media Smart Libraries program. One of the goals of the program is to advance the digital and media literacy skills of librarians through a series of free continuing education workshops. We invite you to the first FREE workshop:

TWITTER 101

MEDIA SMART LIBRARIES WORKSHOP

Tuesday, October 6, 2015

6:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

East Providence Public Library

Presenter: Catherine Damiani, Digital Services Librarian, East Providence Public Library

Libraries of all kinds are already using Twitter to good effect.Whether it is to broadcast your library events, converse with other professionals, or follow experts and resources, Twitter should be one of your library's communication tools. In this session you will learn how to use Twitter and discuss ways that this micro-blogging tool can facilitate the exchange of information. We recommend that you create a Twitter account ahead of time and bring your own mobile device.

This workshop is part of the Media Smart Libraries program which was made possible in part by the Institute of Museum and Library Services, Grant # LG-07-14-0045-14

We encourage you to BYOB - Bring Your Own Buddy and start tweeting to #mediasmartri

RSVP off list to:

Mary Moen, Media Smart Libraries Program Director mary_moen@uri.edu

Thank you.

Mary Moen

Research Assistant Professor of Library Studies

Media Smart Libraries Program
Funded by the Institute of Museum and Library Services

Graduate School of Library and Information Studies

Harrington School of Communication and Media

University of Rhode Island

Kingston, RI

Join the Conference Committee

Mon, 21 Sep 2015 15:42:29 GMT

The RILA Conference committee is looking for new members!!! Are you interested in helping to shape the new look of the RILA conference? Do you have ideas for speakers, sessions, or activities that conference members will love? If you are passionate about networking, professional development, or current trends in the field, then we want to hear from you! Contact co-chairs Melissa Chiavaroli (melissa@cumberlandlibrary.org) or Erin Creighton (elcreighton@gmail.com) for more information about meetings, the time commitment required, or if you would like to join us!

Melissa Chiavaroli

Reference Services Coordinator

Cumberland Public Library

1464 Diamond Hill Road

Cumberland, RI 02864

(401) 333-2552 ext. 201

www.cumberlandlibrary.org

You Are Invited: Life is Good Founders and CEOs Bert and John Jacobs Talk and Booksigning at B&N Warwick

Wed, 19 Aug 2015 15:08:51 GMT

LIFE IS GOOD: The Book: How to Live with Purpose and Enjoy the Ride

Barnes & Noble Warwick is pleased to host founders and CEOs of Life is Good Bert and John Jacobs for a talk and booksigning for their new book LIFE IS GOOD: The Book: How to Live with Purpose and Enjoy the Ride on Tuesday, September 1st at 7pm at 1350 Bald Hill Rd. Warwick. For over two decades, the much-loved Life is Good® brand has brought smiles, hope and help to millions. Over the course of their business career, founders and brothers Bert and John Jacobs have learned that optimism isn't a marketing tactic - it's the force that drove them to overcome tremendous obstacles and build a $100 million clothing company with just $78 and a used minivan. LIFE IS GOOD: The Book: How to Live with Purpose and Enjoy the Ride is the story of the Jacobs brothers' journey and the secrets to their success.

Beginning with their tough upbringing in working-class Boston, LIFE IS GOOD: The Book charts the trajectory of their lives and the company they built. A key influence was their mother, Joan, who could always be counted on to put a humorous and positive spin on everything. "I like running out of money," she would say. "Then I don't have to worry about what I need to buy." This undaunted optimism became the driving force of the Life is Good brand.

As they note in their introduction to the book, studies have demonstrated a strong link between optimism and increased mental and physical health, greater resilience in the face of stress and adversity, and a higher overall quality of life. "Optimism is a powerful and pragmatic strategy for accomplishing goals and living a fulfilling life. By acknowledging obstacles and opportunities - but focusing on the opportunities - optimism enables us to explore the world with open
arms and an eye toward solutions, progress and growth. It also makes life a hell of a lot more fun," they write.

LIFE IS GOOD: The Book offers lighthearted, practical self-help that will inspire and empower readers to embrace life with delight and daring. Bert and John use their experiences to illuminate the 10 Life is Good superpowers that drive optimism:

Openness is transformative, allowing us to discover new ways of being and acting by withholding judgments and preconceptions.
Courage is our inner resolve to try new things.
Simplicity sheds unnecessary complications and distractions.
Humor is a universal connector.
Gratitude is the practice of taking stock of the many things that are good, right and working in our lives.
Compassion is an act of connecting and sharing in the hard stuff, helping ease the pain, heal the hurt and right the wrongs.
Fun is the irresistible spark that connects and inspires us to feel truly united and alive.
Creativity enables us to reach beyond conventional thinking to make things better.
Authenticity is knowing who you are and acting like it.
Love is the most powerful force in the world.

About Bert and John Jacobs:
In 1989, brothers Bert and John Jacobs designed their first T-shirts. They began selling their designs in the streets of Boston and out of an old van at colleges and street fairs. Today, Life is Good® is a $100 million positive lifestyle brand focused on spreading the power of optimism. Ten percent of Life is Good's annual net profits go to helping kids overcome poverty, violence and illness. The Life is Good Kids Foundation partners with leading childcare organizations to positively impact the quality of care delivered to the most vulnerable children. Bert and John both reside in Boston. For more information, visit
www.LifeisGood.com.

For additional information contact Katie Rendine, Community Business Development Manager Barnes & Noble at 826.4261 or crm2159@bn.com

RI Children's Book Award Committee Seeks Member

Mon, 06 Jul 2015 13:39:31 GMT

The Rhode Island Children's Book Award Committee is seeking a RILA member to serve a three-year term as a RILA representative on the committee. This group meets monthly from September through April to discuss current children's literature and select nominations for the Rhode Island Children's Book Award. Serving as a committee member is a great way to keep up with the latest in children's literature. It does require a significant time commitment as all members are expected to read between six and ten children's chapter books per month. If you are interested please contact OLIS Youth Services Coordinator, Danielle Margarida at Danielle.Margarida@olis.ri.gov.

RILA Announces Winners of Annual Awards at Conference

Mon, 08 Jun 2015 15:31:11 GMT

NEWPORT, R.I. – The Rhode Island Library Association announced the winners of this year’s awards of recognition for those serving the patrons of libraries of Rhode Island at the association’s conference at Salve Regina University.

This year’s Outstanding Librarian Award was given to Julie DeCesare. DeCesare is an Assistant Professor and Commons Librarian, Head of Education & Research at Providence College's Phillips Memorial Library, where I currently coordinate instructional and educational opportunities between the library, campus community, and beyond. As a Member at Large for RILA since 2011, she’s been a co-coordinator Money Smart Week - RI. When looking at her role in the profession, DeCesare said, “I am committed to Information and Financial Literacy initiatives, as well as positive outreach and awareness of library services on a statewide level.”

The Trustee of the Year Award was shared by Nancy Chaput of the Cumberland Public Library and Mary Elizabeth “Betsy” Mercer of the Ashaway Free Library.

Chaput has been a trustee at the Cumberland Public Library since 2007, serving as the board’s chair for the past four years. She has also been a Friend of the library for over 15 years, serving as president for most of that time. She also serves on the library’s Cumberland Library Fund, a non-profit group that started as a capital building campaign committee and evolved into overseeing the lirbary’s endowments.

Mercer has served on Ashaway Free Library’s board of trustees for over 25 years. She is the resident historian for the library and the community whil also playing roles in helping to make sure the library gets the funds it needs while serving on the board’s physicial plant, development, and community relations committees. She has also served as the board’s secretary and chair.

Also during the Business Meeting at the conference, the membership elected a new Executive Board. The following is the result:

President: Aaron Coutu (2015-2017), Cumberland Public Library
Vice President/President-Elect: Julie A. DeCesare (2015-2017), Providence College
Past President: Jenifer Bond(2015-2017), Bryant University
Treasurer: Brigitte Hopkins (2015-2017), Westerly Library & Wilcox Park
Secretary: Kieran Ayton (2015-2017), Rhode Island College
ALA Councilor: Jack Martin (2014-2016), Providence Public Library
Member-at-Large: Andrew Creamer (2015-2017), Brown University
Member-at-Large: Beth Ullucci (2015-2017), Jesse M. Smith Memorial Library

MSW RI 2015 Kick Off: Library & Financial Education Professionals Networking Event

Tue, 07 Apr 2015 17:56:18 GMT

Date: Saturday, April 18, 2015
Time:1:00 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Location: William Hall Library, Cranston(link is external)

RILA & OLIS invite financial literacy and library professionals from across the state to a networking & information sharing event that will officially launch Money Smart Week RI 2015. The event is a chance for librarians, representatives from community organizations, and state agencies to meet and discuss how we can work together to empower RI citizens of all ages to be “money smart” through financial education programming, outreach, and services. The event also offers an opportunity to learn more about about various financial literacy resources. Speakers at the event include:

General Treasurer Seth Magaziner
Cranston Mayor Allan Fung
individuals from the RI Library and Financial Literacy community

Money Smart Week - RI 2015 takes place April 18-25 and currently has over 40 events scheduled(link is external) in libraries and community spaces throughout the state. Money Smart Week (MSW) is a national initiative from the Chicago Federal Reserveand the American Library Association that promotes financial literacy awareness. Please join us to celebrate the beginning of the 4th annual MSW RI!

Registration required(link is external)– please RSVP by April 16. Intended Audience: Money Smart Week programmers, Librarians and library staff, & the financial literacy community.

Is your library planning a MSW-RI program or event? Let RILA’s MSW co-chairs know! Contact Chris Wallace Goldstein(cgoldstein@woonsocketlibrary.org(link sends e-mail)) or Julie DeCesare (jdecesa1@providence.edu(link sends e-mail)).

RILA Annual Awards - Nominations Due April 10, 2015

Thu, 02 Apr 2015 17:55:44 GMT

The annual RILA awards process provides the opportunity for special recognition of the accomplishments, service, and commitment of trustees, librarians, and others. The RILA Executive Board encourages you to nominate a deserving colleague or associate for this year’s awards.

This year’s nominations are due no later than May 9, 2014. Nomination letters should be emailed to RILA Awards Committee Chair and RILA Past President, Eileen Dyer, eadyer@gmail.com(link sends e-mail)

Criteria for Trustee of the Year Award

Any trustee of any library who has served on his/her board for at least three years is eligible for this award. These are suggested guidelines, but by no means the only ones, upon which a nomination may be made:

• Nominee worked in a readily identifiable way to develop/improve library service to a community, or to a specific segment within the community.

• Nominee successfully lobbied for increased funding and/or resources for his/her library.

• Nominee fashioned a plan that successfully enhanced the library’s role in the community.

• Nominee was instrumental in networking with trustees of other libraries to foster cooperative planning or activities.

Criteria for Outstanding Librarian Award

This award honors the career accomplishments of a librarian who has demonstrated an outstanding record of service to both his/her library and to the library profession. The nominee must be a member of the Rhode Island Library Association. Guidelines for nomination include:

• Development of outstanding service in (a) field(s) of expertise, e.g. children’s, administrative, technical.

• Involvement in statewide library activities.

• Record of professional library leadership.

• Encouragement of community/institutional support for library.

Criteria for Citation of Merit and or Meritorious Friends of the Library Award(s)

This award is conferred upon citizens who are neither librarians nor library trustees who have made outstanding contributions to quality library service. This award may be given to an individual or group.

The RILA Executive Board will determine award recipients based on the letters of recommendation. The Board reserves the right not to present these awards in any given year.

2015 New England Library Leadership Symposium (NELLS)

Tue, 31 Mar 2015 17:54:35 GMT

EXTENDED DEADLINE!!!!
The application deadline has been extended to Monday, April 6.

Offered every 2 years, The New England Library Leadership Symposium (NELLS) is jointly sponsored by the New England Library Association (NELA) and the six New England state library associations. The purpose of the symposium is to foster the mentoring and development of members of the library community who are eager to grow leadership skills. This is a week-long summer academy and leadership retreat for early to mid-career librarians (3-15 years’ experience), paraprofessionals, Trustees and Friends of Libraries. NELLS is a valuable experience for anyone working in or connected to the library field.

The Rhode Island Library Association and Office of Library & Information Services seeks applicants to represent Rhode Island at the 2015 NELLS session. Individuals interested in this immersive professional development experience are encouraged to apply! Attendees may be recommended by someone or may make their own application Each applicant must be a current member of RILA or NELA to be eligible. Deadline is April 6. Selected attendees will be notified in late spring and this year’s session takes place in early August.

NELLS 2015
August 3-7, 2015
Rolling Ridge Retreat & Conference Center
North Andover, Massachusetts
Facilitator: Maureen Sullivan, ALA Past President

For more information and to download an application form: http://nelib.org/advance-your-career/nells/