REVITALISING LIBRARIES FOR THE SELF SERVE GENERATION

YouTube Video - Roving Librarians

2010-12-20T20:49:00.000+11:00

2011 Lianza Presentation

2010-12-03T12:00:00.000+11:00

Here is a link to this year's presentation.

http://www.conference.co.nz/files/docs/lianza/wednesday/1330%20joanne%20smith.pdf

Carnegie Centre - Dunedin

2010-11-29T12:23:00.004+11:00

Interesting mini tour of the old Dunedin Library by local library "celebrity" Mary Ronnie. I use celebrity loosely, no doubt she is well known and popular but as a past library manger not anything too rock & roll. She would have to be 80+
Beautiful space in terms of the architecture but totally impractical as a library.

Athenaeum Library - Dunedin

2010-11-29T12:09:00.002+11:00

Would seem like a quirky little library if Williamstown had not just relocated into the Mechanics Institute! As it was I found it cute, although thank goodness I don't have to work there. Subscription of $69 per year, customers can borrow up to 3 items at a time, everything is totally manual (not a PC in the place) WOW!!

Lianza - SUNDAY AM

2010-11-29T11:52:00.003+11:00

Oh My! up at what felt like the crack of dawn to get to the library tours at 9am. Would have been 7am in Melb (a time that means nothing to me on a Sunday!) Saw the Athenaeum Library (which is subscription based) the Carnegie Centre (which was the public library from 1908-1981) and the Public Library (toured pre-opening Ooooo exciting)

Certainly worth getting up for!

Dunedin - SATURDAY

2010-11-28T23:45:00.001+11:00

Well I made it here for Lianza again this year. I am speaking on Wednesday, which is a bit of a pain. I will be tense in anticipation all through the week. Dunedin is beautiful, it was lovely and warm when I changed in Wellington but Dunedin is misty and mysterious!

2010 Margery C Ramsay Scholarship

2010-10-28T22:10:00.004+11:00

Tomorrow the next winner of the MCRS will be announced, I am heading along to the presentation at the SLV. I wonder how the person feels?! If they are half as excited as I was they will be up all night. Good Luck to you ...whomever you are!

Williamstown Library Closure

2010-10-15T12:00:00.001+11:00

Re-development of the Williamstown Library reached the point of no return today when we opened in a temporary site at the Mechanics Institute in Electra Street. This temporary service will operate over the construction of the new building, which is expected to be completed in mid 2012.

http://hobsons-bay-leader.whereilive.com.au/news/story/williamstown-library-pulls-up-stacks/

2nd Incite Article

2010-09-02T22:00:00.001+10:00

While I am sunning myself here at the ALIA Conference in Brisbane I was very excited to discover that I have managed to get my 2nd article into InCite for the year!
Super exciting that I could just happen upon it by flicking through the September edition at the ALIA stand but even more exciting that hopefully others will read it and consider running a Food for Fines Campaign, our 2009 Campaign was a wonderful experience for staff, customers and local Emergency Food Relief Organisations.

http://www.alia.org.au/publishing/incite/2010/09/

Winter trip for some Summer sun

2010-07-01T01:00:00.000+10:00

Holidays

2010-06-20T01:50:00.002+10:00

Off on holiday to the UK for 3 weeks. Intend to squeeze in a few library visits while I am there. Naturally a visit to Bath but also perhaps the new one in Swindon. Will also squeeze in some ice-creams....isn't a holiday without ice-cream!!

Retail Techniques

2010-04-14T22:18:00.004+10:00

Great little snippet on Today Tonight last night, talking to the Retail Doctor about the placement of stock and targeting of customers, what retailers do to position stock within the store for maximum attention etc. Lessons for us all!

http://www.retaildoctor.com.au/media-center/news/43-today-tonight.html

April InCite

2010-04-07T21:25:00.002+10:00

My article made it.....page 19. Oh my wow how exciting!!
If you submit an article don't be discouraged they don't actually tell you, you just get a surprise when you flick through the pages!
http://www.alia.org.au/publishing/incite/2010/

Cool people love libraries

2010-04-06T19:22:00.001+10:00

Good old Keith, he fits the rosters "no name double up" criteria if nothing else!

http://entertainment.timesonline.co.uk/tol/arts_and_entertainment/music/article7086815.ece

45 years overdue!

2010-03-23T12:20:00.002+11:00

Funny things happen in libraries :)

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/england/south_yorkshire/8574978.stm

The Librarians - Series 3

2010-03-22T12:23:00.001+11:00

KD had a phonecall from our old mates the Librarians they are about to begin production on Series 3 with filming to commence in June.

ALIA 2010

2010-03-19T20:12:00.001+11:00

Unfortunately my abstract was not selected so I am not speaking at ALIA this year....SO disappointed :(

Opening Day...Part Two

2010-03-16T21:02:00.003+11:00

Part II @ 2pm...this is the really important one, the public opening.

The library opened at 2pm with over 40 people waiting in the car park for the ribbon cutting. KD & I held the ribbon while Cllr Raffoul held the scissors.

We had really positive feedback on the layout, signage and so far customers seem happy with the subject lounge concept, we will see what happens.....

Opening Day...Part One

2010-03-16T20:16:00.003+11:00

Official Opening 10am...my role "car park security"

The choir were lovely, the turn out not overwhelimg but perfect for the space and the Hon Richard Wynne made his delivery with such a positive energy that I was really engaged and if I had not assisted in dot-pointing for the speech myself I could easily have believed the words were actually his own. In addition to the info we provided he threw in a few relevant and interesting adlibs which only added to the experience.

AND apparently the catering was lovely...although I was putting bins for paper towels in the loos at the time...I guess an Operations Co-ordinator's work is never done! Obviously not as I also had to be in pics which I hate :(

The dawn of opening day

2010-03-16T06:59:00.001+11:00

After pulling a late one on the night before opening (I was greeted at the front door by a bleary eyed man & dog at 11pm) it is here. Opening Day fingers crossed all goes well.

Altona North 1 more sleep...

2010-03-15T12:18:00.002+11:00

How exciting! Will we sleep tonight?!

Altona North 2 more sleeps...

2010-03-14T08:00:00.001+11:00

Altona North 3 more sleeps...

2010-03-13T08:00:00.002+11:00

Altona North 4 more sleeps...

2010-03-12T12:01:00.002+11:00

Altona North 5 more sleeps...

2010-03-11T11:35:00.000+11:00

Whoops...A first for me

2010-03-11T09:56:00.005+11:00

For those interested in my pics of Gold Coast Libraries I apologise but the have been removed pending approval from GCCC. I apologise to my readers and to Gold Coast who feel I mis-represented myself.

I did tell them that I had a new library opening (which I do - next week) and in a more extended discussion did tell one staff member that I was completing a research study regarding layout, the introduction of self serve technology and the impact on customer service (which I am - hence this blog)

This is the first time I have been asked to remove photos in 18months but am happy to seek approval through the appropriate channels.

I would like to ensure all those libraries appearing on my blog that although I always point out both good and bad aspects of a library, it is merely to draw out thought and discussion. I have a passion for the ongoing development of public libraries and a respect for those working in the industry.

The photos contained no customers or staff, just signage, layout and furniture/shelving so I hope that I will gain approval to return them soon. Stay posted...

Destination Altona North

2010-02-28T15:00:00.000+11:00

Altona North Community Library opening Tuesday 16th March at 2pm.

Check out the range of activites running as part of our opening celebrations...
http://libraries.hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au/page/page.asp?page_Id=887

First delivery of stock arrives

2010-02-23T19:42:00.003+11:00

A big relief to see the first deliveries of stock arrive this week and KD has the honour of shelving the first book!

In a change from Altona Meadows stock was processed, catalogued and the records uploaded by the suppliers. On arrival items just need to be checked, activated and shelved.

New Staff

2010-02-08T20:50:00.002+11:00

Today our new staff commenced, mindblowing!
A bit intimidating to have 9 people start on one day, and obviously a bit weird for them BUT HOW EXCITING! what a great team building experience to all be there together and go through the training process as a unit.
A bit stressful to organise but hopefully it will be of benefit to all of us in the future.

Footscray Library

2010-02-05T19:50:00.001+11:00

At Footscray today for the Operations Network meeting, despite being just 20mins away I have never been here before.

A nice busy library, with a clear layout and good signage. An open layout up front with book stacks at the rear. Shelving was a little high at the rear not the best accessibility wise but I assume this was done to free up open space at the front, the right balance of this is often necessary for those undertaking refurbs not everyone has the luxury of a new build or additional floor space, it is about identifying creative ways to achieve that.

Really cute Children's area but I'm not sure it would allow for a large/growing group.

I loved the door to the "car manuals" section, I thought it was a fantastic way to incorporate interactive art into the library (similar to the portholes at Albury see 2009 post)

...until I realised it was actually locked (LIBRARY POLICE) I guess if you have to lock off a section this is the way to do it. Really funky!

Customer Service Training

2010-02-04T22:39:00.001+11:00

Attended COMPLETE CLIENT CARE training today, via Council.

Nothing I didn't already know customer service wise but it was interesting to see the different interpretations of "high level customer service" in the different Council departments.

I also got some good ideas for the customer service training for our new bods.

http://www.wct.com.au/Training/CSEWARE.NSF/ShowOutline?ReadForm&UNID=C2D4802ABBBB995CCA25741C003EA148

Interviews

2010-01-30T19:43:00.005+11:00

The interviews are complete, phew what a mission!

It always amazes me that despite the work you put into the whole recruitment process you can still end up with some total nightmares at interview. This time was no different but we've got a great bunch...a variety of experience and backgrounds which will hopefully make an friendly and approachable team of staff to support the AN Community.

During the customer service interviews we asked applicants to complete and internet/catalogue search which was a great addition to the process. It was interesting to see the difference in questioning and searching techniques.

Shortlisting Process

2010-01-05T08:00:00.000+11:00

We managed to get most of the applications for qualified roles done before New Year, that just leaves the 360 for the customer service roles!

We are being really strict, not pulling out anything that does not directly address the selection criteria. Applications that are generic are also not making it through.

We put a lot of work into this library and we only want people who put effort into their application.

Applications Close

2009-12-18T19:03:00.000+11:00

The jobs closed this week, we weren't swamped with calls but have still come out with over 500 applications across all the roles. Was hoping to shortlist before Christmas but not sure we will make it.

Advertising for new staff

2009-12-05T14:35:00.002+11:00

Our job ads went out in The Age today.
I was careful to use words like innovative and non-traditional so that we got people with the right vibe. I also put that it was a busy comminuty hub adjacent to a school and shopping precinct after all you don't want people who don't like people!
Pretty scary advertising so many roles at the same time, how many phone calls will we get?!

No Library Police here!

2009-11-15T10:33:00.002+11:00

Parklands

2009-11-15T09:25:00.007+11:00

The final stop on our Christchurch adventure was Parklands.

Parklands is a converted Church in a what a appeared to be a well off residential area. It is modern building don't think stone & steeple, and the front windows have been modified to give it a similar look to the other/newer sites.

Parklands has a consistent theme throughout, there is a lovely cafe out onto a contained garden and arriving after storytime a number of mums have spilled out into the garden for a coffee and a chat while their children play in the garden.

Less books than other sites but still quite a lot for the space (see previous posts regarding requirements for book holdings) fun and funky, small but vibrant. Well signposted and easy to navigate.

The only downside is an IT training room, not getting the usage it could be as it is closed off then there is not a session being run. If training were stacked on certain days the space could potenitially be opened up as an internet cafe (perhaps Fri-Sun)

New Brighton

2009-11-13T15:05:00.011+11:00

Following Shirley we visited the very striking New Brighton Library.

Very striking view and beautiful building. Not a purpose buit library and it felt quite cluttered but lthere were ots of little nooks and casual seating, taking in the panoramic views.

Shirley

2009-11-03T13:42:00.005+11:00

What unexpected place to find the library. Shirley library has had a shopping centre and multi-storey car park grow up around it and as an outsider you don't even know it is there until you are upon it but for regular shoppers it is very convenient.

Outside it is fairly non descript but it has nice clear signage, obviously lots of convenient parking, and inside is a very vibrant space.

A circular desk, as most of the branches have had, along one wall and here too a Council customer service desk.

A great feeling of space throughout and lots of little nooks to sit and read or chat.

Take me riding in your car car

2009-11-03T13:20:00.000+11:00

On Thursday we had the honour and luxury of been given a guided tour of 3 more of Christchurch's lovely libraries. A big thanks to the Places & Spaces team for being so welcoming and putting their precious time & energy into me!

Even cooler (library cool not normal person cool) we got to see their funky library mobiles.....think "bat mobile" not "mobile library"

South Library

2009-11-03T11:36:00.000+11:00

We taxi'd straight over from from Spreydon to South, spookily the furniture colours were similar to those we had for Altona North, it gave us a homely feeling!

The building is striking from the outside and again highlights are the real integration of the outside environment and bringing the green in. As seems to be Chirstchurch's theme the building was long and rectangular, with a cafe and a spacious reading area.

To me the shelving felt quite industrial for the space, looking back at my pics it has been the same everywhere but it feels it here, not sure why.

The building was multi use hosting a learning centre and a Council customer service desk offering residents a "one stop shop" for Council and Community services.

A fantastic addition to the outside is the striking moat, chessboard in the courtyard and external artwork. Only sad thing was that it was a VERY quiet night, an hour from closing and only a handful of customers.

Spreydon

2009-10-25T10:18:00.005+11:00

Wednesday evening we taxi'd it over to funky little Spreydon Library where they had made great use of a really unusual building.

Unable to extend out due to heritage on a tree they had revitalised the inside and made good use of the small ground floor space and mezzanine area.

A small space so not a lot to say really, a funky accessible lift, cute little children's area and great outlook onto those trees! Staff were very friendly too.

Library Police NZ

2009-10-24T12:49:00.001+11:00

Perhaps not library police but certainly fashion police
Given the glorious weather we decided to walk back to the hotel from Upper Riccarton and I got the scare of my life...what was this on the other side of the road??? Oh my ICK!!

I hadn't seen this on the Christchurch website, did they have a second stream of dodgie sub-standard secret libraries? Of course not!

This embarrassment to the library sign, is one of a number of war memorial libaries around the area, run by volunteers and offering limited opening hours. They are sadly in need of a bit of branding and a lesson in curb appeal.

Upper Riccarton

2009-10-24T09:29:00.005+11:00

We hit Upper Riccarton at 4.30pm, a perfect time to see the library being shared by all manner of customers. Upper Riccarton is a joint use school and public library, built on the side of the school site.

It was a long building but had a great feeling of light and space and a really good vibe, it also features ESD principles.

The school uses the meeting rooms in the day and the public have the opportunity to hire the meeting rooms in the evening.

There is an exhibition space along one wall, a cafe overlooking the school playing fields and a light and bright reading space at one end.

Great space with a vibrant feeling, being well used by all ages of the community. GREAT SPACE!

Christchurch Libraries

2009-10-23T14:23:00.001+11:00

I did actually get to 7 libraries while in Christchurch, I will eventually get around to putting pics up for all of them. They get better & better so stay tuned! :)

Christchurch City Library

2009-10-23T13:10:00.016+11:00

Wow, what a lot of books!

What this library needs is less books - this was particularly evident in the fiction with numerous multiples (although I understand that there is a per capita requirement so it is mean of me to say)

City Library is part of a cultural precinct in the centre of town, over 3 leavels and has a funky concierge desk at the entry PLUS open until 9pm!

Signage was consistent throughout and there were at least two staff desks on each floor, although during my evening visit more were unstaffed. Could smaller (more secure) pods be a better option?! maybe

Some areas of the library, like the Children's section feel quite spacious, while other areas are a little crowded but overall a vibrant service with a "City feel" is delivered.

They had a fabulous magazine collection, which obviously fits well with the commuter customers.

The LOTE area was quite large but collections varied in size - some very small - but with fab posters.

The teenage area was small but funky and the nook under the stairs created an unusual space.

My presentation

2009-10-13T12:58:00.002+11:00

The presentation is done, it appeared to go really well with over 100 in attendance. I've had some positive feedback already and hope it will drum up extra followers for this blog and that once people have digested my info I'll receive some enquiries & feedback from those who attended.

Lianza 2009

2009-10-12T12:53:00.001+11:00

Well I'm here in sunny Christchurch for Lianza this year.
Down in Victoria Park for the Powhiri to open the conference, I'm feeling nervous about my presentation tomorrow but looking forward to the conference.
Last year's conference was a really great first experience and I hope this year is equally engaging. (PICS TO FOLLOW)

Point Cook Library

2009-09-28T20:58:00.001+10:00

Point Cook opened in September 2009 and as my local library I was really excited but I have to say I was disappointed. The building looks pretty funky from the outside and is adjoined to a community building, although they only share the foyer/toilets.

On the whole for the layout was rather bland, to a librarian most libraries are beautiful but this was pretty blah. Of course it was new, which is pretty cool but normally you walk into a new library and go, "wow", "love that", "we need one of those" etc

As a new build the walkways were wide, the collection tidy, well displayed and clearly labelled but there was no wow factor!

No one looked up from the desk when I walked in, as I walked around the library none of the staff spoke to me and despite the fact that they had only been open a few weeks no one was floorwalking, talking to customers and providing direction.

As a local I drive past the library 2-3 times per week, the blinds are never open and customers can never see inside the building to see what it happening.

I am also amazed at the operating hours, considering Point Cook is a commuter town and the adjacent shopping centre is open late Friday night, I can not believe that the library only opens late one night per week and it isn't Friday!

.....But maybe I expect too much because I libe in Point Cook, luckily for me I have a library at work, if I didn't I'd never get there after work during the week.

Update on my progress

2009-08-14T23:48:00.002+10:00

I have made the decision to put back my timeframes so that I can release my research to coincide with the opening of our new library at Altona North. We will be encompassing a number of the concepts from my research in the layout and the staffing so it will be a great illustrator of how changes will impact of "how we work" day to day.
It will also give me the opportunity to work on a publication to circulate...evidence of how libraries plan and deliver training to prepare staff to support self service technology has been less available than i had originally expected.
Back to the drawing board!

Food for Fines

2009-08-11T22:16:00.003+10:00

I am SO excited our Foods for Fines campaign has been approved at Council and will be happening in November. Even better our FISHY shameless self promotion is in full swing and we have had The Leader, The Mail and The Star all running articles!

It made the front page of The Hobsons Bay Leader....
http://hobsons-bay-leader.whereilive.com.au/news/story/food-fine-thanks

Page 4 in The Star....
http://www.starnewsgroup.com.au/story/78435

Page 9 in The Mail....

and hopefully the Herald Sun on this weekend!

Middleton Interactive Learning Centre

2009-08-05T21:03:00.001+10:00

Thanks to our contact with the crew from ABC's The Librarians who filmed at our Newport Branch and a number of other venues in Hobsons Bay. I was lucky enough to get a sneaky peak at the library they mocked up at the Showgrounds for the filming of series 2.
You can spot a few ideas they have pinched from Meadows...it was really interesting to see what non-library folk think a "new" library should look like.

The Librarians series 2

2009-08-01T22:07:00.001+10:00

LIANZA Christchurch 2009

2009-07-20T23:22:00.000+10:00

My abstract has been accepted to speak at the Lianza Conference in Christchurch during October. I am looking forward to the opportunity to share some of my work with colleagues in NZ.
Last year's conference in Auckland was lots of fun, it was interesting to see the difference between the smaller, more intimate conference in NZ compared to the bigger, less personal ALIA conference in Alice Springs.
http://www.lianza.org.nz/events/conference2009/

IFLA Sweden 2010

2009-07-10T23:43:00.002+10:00

More info on the relocated IFLA Conference now in Sweden!

http://www.ifla.org/en/news/g-teborg-sweden-to-host-the-2010-ifla-world-library-and-information-congress

IFLA Brisbane 2010

2009-07-10T23:33:00.000+10:00

Next year's IFLA conference in Brisbane has now been moved to Stockholm, I had been hoping to speak at the Brisbane conference...not sure how that will impact on things now!

http://www.alia.org.au/ifla2010/

Bless our customers...

2009-07-08T16:43:00.000+10:00

I wonder if Super Joel has seen the marketing job we have advertised?!

Oh Dear! Come back Library Police

2009-07-06T16:31:00.005+10:00

Only kidding I don't want the Library Police back but this is exactly why we need to promote the pants off libraries!
(Crazy kids...)

Library Police live on!

2009-06-27T13:49:00.000+10:00

Visit to the City Library, LOVED the exhibition space & piano upstairs...but the Library Police are always there to spoil the party! I guess it was delivered in a slightly quirky way but....

What a disaster!

2009-05-29T23:16:00.000+10:00

Thank you Melbourne weather! due to ice on the wing, my flight to Brisbane was delayed, they didn't hold my connecting flight so despite having no luggage i missed the connection to Rockhampton. Virgin bumped me to the later flight which would have meant I would have been in Rockhampton for approx 2hrs and wouldn't have had time to get to Yeppoon.
In Brisbane I managed to convince Qantas to cash in my flight and after sitting in the airport for 2hrs I got a connection back to Melbourne.
What a waste of a day....but there was no point going up to come straight back.
Need to rescedule!

Library Police Strike Again!

2009-05-24T11:52:00.000+10:00

Again no names...but why have a PlayStation and only switch it on weekends and holidays?

Staff at every library should have a wander, seek out and destroy and super scary "Library Police" remnants of the past! I think I will set that as a task for my Team Leaders to bring back for discussion at our next meeting!

Next Visits

2009-05-22T23:38:00.000+10:00

Off to Rockhampton & Yeppoon and verbYL next week! very exciting!!

http://www.rockhamptonregion.qld.gov.au/common/Pages/Display/showarticle.aspx?id=13254

http://www.verbyl.net.au/

Library Police

2009-05-21T23:46:00.003+10:00

No names....but why are the bad old Library Police undead and everliving? Die Library Police Die!

Borders buying night

2009-05-21T23:29:00.005+10:00

Last night our staff went wild with a 'lock in' at Borders!

The lovely gang at Borders, Highpoint helped us with a special collection development workshop/social event!

Potentially a wild night of excess spending the staff worked well to stay within their $350 budget each. All searching out material that they felt would suit our "new" customers at Altona North.At the end of the spending spree we came back together to rest our weary legs and to discuss our selections, where everyone had to share what we had chosen, why and who we thought would read it.

It was a fantastic night, originally coming from a collections meeting earlier in the year. The atmosphere was generally "fishy" (that's good! see earlier blog entry) which was only slightly dampened by some "old school library police" comments about what we should or shouldn't have in a library collection.

On the whole though it was a great, the purchases will make up a small part of our new collection but it was an opportunity for everyone to get involved with thr new library, get a little more understanding of our collection development policy and share a fun experience...after all it is not every day you get locked in a book shop after closing with permission to spend!!

Kevin Hennah Workshop

2009-05-13T23:23:00.003+10:00

I had the privilege of listening to Kevin Hennah speak again this week. I have been to one of his workshops before and enjoyed "round 2" just as much.

http://www.kevinhennah.com.au/

This session was called an ID workshop, referring to a Library's Identity but basically softening a look at branding...and by now you should know that is one of "my things" His concepts around the retail look and feel of libraries is exactly what I am getting at. We need to pretty things up to get people in the door and coming back to us as a vibrant, entertainng space.

Match that with a customer service program that gets staff out interacting with customers and value adding to their experience AND Oo-La-La what a wonderful place to be!

Chermside Library

2009-05-09T21:58:00.010+10:00

On the way back to Brisbane Airport I called in at Chermside Library, the staff at Brisbane Square recommended it as an opportunity to see some of their concepts used to refresh an existing building/service.

The branch is co-located in a hub with the aquatic centre and what looked like an RSL Club.

I get excited about refurbs, I like to see a team that can re-invent themselves and re-energise their customers by updating their look. After spotting the funky purple as I neared the car park entrance I spied an equally funky "wrap around" cafe which serviced an outside deck area and an inside cafe.

Inside they have had new paintwork, carpeting and the big feature a new space themed children's area. I was there after school and there was a nice "busy" feel to the branch without it feeling crowded.

No RFID but a bank of self serves and a very compact info desk. The staff were out floor walking and serving customers on the "other" side of the desk, which was great to see.

The signage was in the process of being changed over so was half up half down. The new signage was consistent throughout but for my eyes it was a little small! I actually thought the sign I saw on the floor was new but it was one of the variety of mixed old signage...whoops!!

Also great were what I will call the "gaming lockers" newly installed they didn't have any equipment in them but something I will certainly consider to house our PlayStation's and/ideally Wii's at Altona North.

http://www.brisbane.qld.gov.au/BCC:BASE::pc=PC_940

Brisbane Library

2009-05-08T19:39:00.012+10:00

Brisbane is the "queen bee" at the moment with its Charlie & the Chocolate Factory automated returns chute.

Sadly 2 people have to watch it at all times just in case it gets blocked. Considering the cost I think having someone watch it kind of defeats the purpose (but I'm probably just jealous!)

No honestly, Brisbane Square really was stunning. The magnitude of the building inside and out is pretty darn wow! and with such a huge main library (over 3 floors) and another 31 branches in the area it is the sort of library service most of us would only read/dream about.

I was amazed to find that without RFID self issue stats are at almost 78% but from watching the customer flow I can see that this has been achieved through a reduced desk space and the effort from staff to get away from the desks and roam the floor - talking to people and helping them.

However as a first time visitor I found it difficult to spot staff, and if I had been using the library and in need of assistance would perhaps have had to loiter near one of the un-staffed desks until someone found me.

The Children's Library was pretty amazing, the feature was a huge mural that was based around a specially commissioned picture book. The youth area was also great and obviously a really inviting space, as in the middle of the afternoon it was full of 20-30 something men gaming or watching sport on the big screen!

I liked the individual AV pods where customers could grab a DVD off the shelf and watch it in the library.

Also ace was the feature display wall and the vending machine containing both snacks and stationery supplies.

My only disappointment other than my unrealistic expectation of seeing a fully independent "transformer" chute was the stock, which for me was fairly traditionally displayed

but I guess if somewhere had everything I wouldn't need to do any research.

Palmerston Library

2009-05-07T16:42:00.009+10:00

The Library at Palmerston was opened approx 3 years ago. It was purpose built, adjacent to a shopping centre and recreation centre and also boasts an on site cafe.

The collection at Palmerston is all divided into living rooms, not just non fiction but fiction, LP and talking books. The collections are grouped together into "themes" but within each living room are divided into the traditional NF, Fic & LP etc.

Depending on the theme some have all formats, others have no fiction, some no non-fiction.

I like the idea of themed groupings as it has the potential to take people outside what they usually see/read but some of the themes were a bit obscure.

Plus personally I think that the talking book collection would be better as a stand alone because some users particularly want that format.

An absence (notable to some, un-noticed by others) is the reference collection, as all material is either for loan or online.

I was there after school and the place was jumping with youth which was great to see!

I particularly liked the AV area, which had a retail feel to it.

http://www.palmerston.nt.gov.au/site/page.cfm?u=225

Casuarina Library

2009-05-07T15:30:00.010+10:00

Casuarina Library in Darwin undertook a 12 week, million dollar refurbishment in late 2008, re-opening just before Christmas. The "new" library is light and bright with lots of space throughout and a mix of study areas and casual seating dotted around.

The collection now includes 4 non fiction "living rooms" Home & Garden, Health and Wellness, Language and Travel and Parenting.

Sadly there was a delay with signage so the library has been open for 6 months will absolutely no internal signage in place but despite that staff report an increase in memberships and borrowing since the re-opening.

Their children's area was large and featured a mix of front facing and tub style shelving which ensured the space looked appeal and was easy to keep tidy.

No RFID but there were 2 self issue terminals, currently operating at approx 30%. While I was there the staff moved mostly in close proximity of the circ desk but did appear relaxed in venturing to the customer side of the desk to assist with DIY demos.

The height adjustable table for one of their self issue machines was fabulous (I want one!) and it was placed between the Children's Library and the Ref Desk, meaning it was used regularly by families but was also close to staff if assistance was required by anyone with limited mobility.

Another good idea I took away was the 10 MOST REQUESTED ITEMS in the teenage area, naturally at the moment The Twilight Series held the top 4 spots!

http://www.darwin.nt.gov.au/residents/libraries/librarylocations.htm

Personal Development

2009-05-05T12:04:00.000+10:00

Part of the scholarship funding also allowed for some personal development. I have booked into a few sessions that will be useful for my research and for my current role.
This week I attended a coaching skills session run through Inspirational Coaching, I had met Lindsay at a networking breakfast and Margaret had come in to run our Fish! workshop for staff last year.
http://www.icoachu.com.au/home/
I like their delivery, the sessions are relaxed, with people sharing stories and ideas throughout rather than us just getting into role playing (which I totally hate)
I had a bit of a light bulb moment when Lindsay was talking about the line diagram and staff either working above the line and being responsible or working below the line and being a victim. She talked about what happens when staff come to you and get answers all the time, what do they do when you aren't around? In my case...they phone me at home! (which sometimes feels a bit out of control) Lindsay talked about asking questions rather than giving answers and that in terms of the line diagram if someone responds to a question they are taking responsibility so even a victim has to take responsible when answer a question.
I'm going to go with this and package up a mini presentation for our Team Leader meeting in a few weeks, if this works I will get some me time back and staff will be more confident to trust themselves and each other for answers. Winners all round!!

Visits for May

2009-04-27T17:32:00.003+10:00

Well I have been a bit slack of late!
Truthfully I have been flat out but I really have not done enough on the scholarship front. At work we are in the process of reviewing the weekend rosters, which has been fairly hectic PLUS I had 5 days of interviews in the month of April! ICK!!
Anyway back on track I have just booked in visits to Casuarina and Brisbane Sq in early May. Visit the blog in a fortnight for pics and my thoughts on both sites.

Wow...check out plans for the new Birmingham Library

2009-04-15T10:22:00.001+10:00

Visitors arriving when the new library opens in 2013 will be confronted by an airy atrium filled with touch-sensitive computer screens and regularly changing exhibitions. Voluble group learning will take precedence over hushed reading rooms.

"The number of books we loan out and reference inquires we receive is sliding. We can all use Google and with discounts on Amazon, three-for-two offers in Waterstones and Tesco discounting every Harry Potter book, many of us have the means to buy books. We need to make the library more of an experience. Our role will now be less about transactions with users and more about aiding their transformation."

http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2009/apr/03/libraries-architecture-birmingham

Alexander McCall-Smith, author of the No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency series: "Whatever changes may occur in the way in which read about the world, libraries remain absolutely central to the life of a nation. Libraries house our knowledge and our culture; they are beacons of light in a difficult world."

Irvine Welsh, novelist: "[It's] an audacious and compelling initiative which promises to redefine and modernise the entire notion of public library services, and in the process create the greatest public information resource in Europe ... Writers will love it, and so will readers."

Step up to the plate @ your library

2009-04-14T10:07:00.002+10:00

Doesn't this sound great!
A partnership between the American Library Association and the National Baseball Hall of Fame encouraging people of all ages to build their information literacy. Perhaps one day we could look at something like this with the AFL.
http://www.ala.org/ala/issuesadvocacy/advocacy/publicawareness/campaign%40yourlibrary/sponsorship/stepup/stepup.cfm

4 sleeps til my birthday!

2009-04-11T17:29:00.006+10:00

The library is closed for 2 days and I've gone mad already! Well I'm mad enough to dye my hair purple anyway!!

Couldn't I have just read a book you ask?!...well yes...but I was handed this fishy challenge by workmates and despite the fact that I am very un-girlie when it comes to hair and have not tried to colour my hair for probably 15+ years I have gone purple.

Actually I quite like it so HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME!

Caroline Springs

2009-04-10T12:01:00.013+10:00

Caroline Springs is a purpose built suburb and the library/civic centre has been built in a landmark building which is central to the leisure centre, shopping centre and a secondary school. It also features an number of environmentally sustainable design features.

The School uses the meeting spaces for teaching and although the library is fairly quiet during the day it is brimming with noise and youth in the afternoons/evenings.

The library offers RFID technology, DIY issues (the returns module has been recently turned off) and self serve PC bookings. There is no actual circ desk, the Council Customer Service staff operate a traditional desk just inside the main door and the library staff work from a small/mobile info desk in the centre of the library, although on my visit and on previous visits staff generally floor-walk rather than stay at the desk.

At a recent SLV presentation the Manager said during his presentation that the library was "too busy to offer quality customer service after school" to be honest this mortifies me! To stand up in a room of 200 people (which may have included his own staff) and say that they do not provide quality service due to the quantity of customers is so sad.

Quality customer service should be a never ending quest, when any member of the team (let alone the manager!) feels that the service is below par they should be rallying the troops and realigning the resources to lift themselves out of the funk and make positive changes. I sat at the front of the audience longing for him to stop talking and have the opportunity to speak to his staff....something to add to my "things to do"

Looking at the physical space of Caroline Springs it is an unusual space as it is long and thin, it includes a cafe at one end, a youth gaming zone, PC area and a children's library which has been creatively separated from the main library. At the end facing the shops there is a foyer space which is currently under-utilised, my suggestion would be to turn it into a gallery space come quite study area, as that is something lacking from the library.

There is good way finding signage near the main entrance, and signage on the bay ends. The collections although traditionally arranged ,blend a good mix of front facing and spine-out shelving.

The space is light and bright with a positive energy.

Fishtank of Fame

2009-04-09T16:20:00.004+10:00

At my presentation I talked about my fish tank of fame and a number of people asked me about it later.

Last year we undertook a motivational leadership workshop of the FISH! philosophy: Play, Be there, Make their day & Choose your attitude.

The fishtank came about as a way of recognising and celebrating success. Staff can nominate eachother to be "Groundbreaking Goldfish", "Shameless Starfish" or "Humble/Hardworking Hermit Crabs".

Those nominated get their name in the tank along with the reason. The tank is just above the workroom copier so everyone gets to see it.

Ceremonial sod turning

2009-04-09T16:09:00.003+10:00

This morning was the ceremonial sod turning (yes that is actually what they call it!) for the new library at Altona North.

In attendance the Mayor, Ministers, Councillors, Council Officers (lots of big wigs)

Notable absences??? Library staff, who didn't get an "offical" invitation (we just work here!) and somehow got the wrong time.

We did arrive in time for photos and cakes - just missed the speeches...perhaps we got it right after all!!

LIANZA Christchurch 2009

2009-04-05T17:04:00.001+10:00

Had already registered an interest in Lianza 2009 but have just noticed that they are calling for speakers. Abstracts are due in mid-May so will have to start working on that in between my visits this month. Very exciting!!

http://www.lianza.org.nz/events/conference2009/

Postie delivery

2009-04-03T16:34:00.004+11:00

The postie delivered my ALIA membership today.

Since attending Dreaming08 in Alice Springs I have been thinking about joining ALIA and last week, when stewing on finishing my presentation, I decided to do it.

Today the paperwork and funky little pin arrived, I added it to the badges on my work lanyard.

The pack included the last 2 copies of inCite which I hadn't had a good look at yet. The Jan/Feb edition (p23) contains Alli's article about our Hot Rod event at Altona Library YAY! and the March edition (p16) contains an article about Casuarina, Darwin City Council's largest library.

I had been looking for a potential visit that was somewhere other than the east coast and this it! Casuarina is a refurb rather than a new build and contains both self serve and collection grouped in themed "living rooms".

http://www.darwin.nt.gov.au/aboutdarwin/news/documents/CasLibOpen_000.pdf

Can't wait to see it, I will have to contact them next week.

SLV Presentation

2009-04-02T22:38:00.005+11:00

Today I gave my first official presentation relating to the scholarship. Pretty intimidating in the SLV in front of almost 200 people but I think I did OK for a first timer.

The last time I presented in front of such a large crowd was when I was roped into attending a school assembly to present some summer read certificates.

I was encouraged by the fact that the 3 speakers before me covered some of the same themes so I was confident that I wasn't saying anything too outrageous that would get me into trouble.

During the first presentation Beck from Frankston accidentally knocked her glass of water all over my shoes, as we were in the front row we couldn't jump up to do anything about it so we just sat there sniggering like school girls.

After that the most I was worried about was that I would slip over in my squelchy shoes so the accident was a great ice-breaker really.

Khanh & Maria did a wonderful job as my cheer squad!

I was really enthused by some of the presentations and am now doubly excited about visiting Brisbane.

Wonderful Webolution

2009-03-13T08:41:00.011+11:00

Our webolution program came to a sad end this evening with the Webolution Full Time ceremony. Special Guest Josh Earl "The Librarian" Comedian was a riot and a great time was had by all.

Staff took part on a Stereotypical Librarian Dress-up Day which rolled into the party after work. More than 3/4 of the 43 staff completed the program. Great work everyone!!

Albury Library Museum

2009-03-07T08:58:00.000+11:00

I'm on the road again....

Road trip up to Albury today to see their "state of the art" Library Museum.

Firstly the building is striking! We met no directional signage on the way into town but as soon as I saw it I knew it was the place.

Great corner location and excellent access into the building.

Personally I loved the feel inside, mostly dark shelving & flooring but lots of light coming in from the windows.

There were two desks. An info desk wrapping into their impressive "info zone" staff dealt with general enquiries, local history questions and retail sales from the museum.

Then a circ desk handling the general customer flow. I was pleased to see that the circ staff were rotating out to shelve. I have seen other two desk libraries where the circ desk is busy and the info desk quiet so they have librarian's shelving! such a waste.

I loved the children's area which was a simply raised steps but had been bags for lounging around and little sitting nooks with big windows to watch the world go by.

I was slightly disappointed to see very limited self serve technology. New technology appeared to be limited to a big screen TV and the listening posts. Very funky but I was expecting more from a "state of the art" facility.

Library Lovers Day

2009-02-14T01:00:00.002+11:00

What a great idea.

People (other than Librarians) do love libraries and we should all celebrate that!
but it is not just for book lovers....

It is a chance for people to celebrate what they like about their library, whether it be the books, the staff, the quiet, the noisy fun of storytime

...or just the fact that it is theirs. In whatever size or shape it happens come!

1 sleep...

2009-02-13T08:48:00.000+11:00

and remember to celebrate all the things that libraries are today...which make them so wonderful and so much more than books

2 sleeps...

2009-02-12T10:40:00.000+11:00

Be thankful for the places reading can take you...
and that you can take a book almost anywhere

3 sleeps...

2009-02-11T10:19:00.000+11:00

Be thankful for the loud and wacky ones...they keep things interesting

4 sleeps...

2009-02-10T13:54:00.001+11:00

Wonder at those rule obsessed Librarian's...well someone has to make the rules & keep score

5 sleeps til Library Lovers Day

2009-02-09T09:00:00.000+11:00

Celebrate Libraries and Librarians everywhere
http://www.librarylovers.org.au/

Check out the SLV Summer Read Events

2009-02-01T08:37:00.000+11:00

Hobsons Bay is hosting Steven Carroll in February
http://www.slv.vic.gov.au/programs/reading_victoria/summerread/2008/

The Librarians are coming

2009-01-14T17:15:00.000+11:00

Excitement around Hobsons Bay Libraries this week with the much anticipated arrival of the cast and crew of The Librarians, filming some scenes from series 2 at Newport Library.

Recent Reads

2009-01-02T17:22:00.002+11:00

I have been off the blogging on a little rest over Christmas but now am back and have added a shelfari bookshelf of recent reads. For those interested in where I get my crazy ideas! Happy Reading...

Hobsons Bay Libraries Webolution

2008-12-15T08:30:00.004+11:00

Well as dawn breaks on the "half time" ceremony more than three quarters of our staff have made it to the half way mark.
KD has done a wonderful job in re-branding the 23 things project and staff have worked well to motivate and encourage each other this far.
Tomorrow's party is an opportunity for the group to celebrate their success in the first three months and to commit towards making it through the project, with an improved awareness of social networking technologies. Plus like any good party there will be food & prizes!
Below is a link to the webolution blog as well as a link to my personal blog.
Staff can take any angle they want on working through the stages.
http://hblwebolution.wordpress.com/
Mine is totally random, for me playing around on the blog is a break from "work" although it is still technically work, it is also fun!
http://www.library-jo.blogspot.com/
I read the activity and then add something using the new trick or technology but my posts are about whatever I want, some staff comment on the activity and how they worked through it, some do a mix of both.
We are free to work through the stages at our own speed and with our own flavour.
Maybe that is why it has been so successful.

Followers

2008-12-14T10:45:00.001+11:00

I have two followers, yippee. Better crack down on loading info then!
Also better put on smarter PJs if blogging for strangers!!

Shhhhhh

2008-12-13T00:56:00.001+11:00

Can't wait for my next visit to family & friends in the UK

2008-12-08T17:05:00.001+11:00

Author opens children's space at library
10:00pm Sunday 7th December 2008

BESTselling children’s author Melvin Burgess met teenagers at the Central Library to open a special reading area for young bookworms.
HeadSpace is an initiative developed and run in partnership with young people and The Reading Agency, an independent charity which encourages people to read more.
Melvin, whose most famous books include Billy Elliot, Junk and Doing It, launched HeadSpace at noon on Saturday, before giving a talk about his inspiration and life as a best selling author.
Greeting his audience he said: “It’s nice to be in Swindon as I have never been here before, living in Reading I used to think all these places were the same but it’s good to be here and at the new library.”
About 30 youngsters attended the event adding to the 60,000 people who have already visited the £10m building since it opened in October. The award-winning building now proudly features a HeadSpace hub, where youngsters aged 11 to 19 can read, relax, surf the internet and use the eight computers to do their homework.
They can now also order drinks from the library’s volunteer book waiters – an idea generated by young library users.
ttp://www.wiltshiretimes.co.uk/search/3957324.Author_opens_children_s_space_at_library/

The Official Presentation

2008-11-26T08:51:00.011+11:00

What a special day!

Having known about the award for a few weeks, I had only known I would need to make a speech for about 24hrs, luckily it was a friendly crowd!

It was great to have my family and workmates there to share my special day.

When I got back to work I could tell all the staff which for me was very exciting. Our webolution and fishy program have created a really positive energy around the place. I may even get a shameless starfish in my own fish tank of fame this week.

Ooooo close guess at Library Party

2008-11-23T18:46:00.002+11:00

Saw Pexta at KD & Shanksie's party this arvo. Everyone else has been making really random guesses on my blog but Pexta proved herself a real detective today with a guess that I am doing "A library work exchange in New Zealand" I'm really impressed and will have to get her a little prize as the closest guesser...I'm sure I can find something fishy that she'd appreciate.

Closing in on the official announcement

2008-11-21T18:31:00.000+11:00

Only a few more sleeps to go. I'm hanging out to tell everyone and have come up with a sneaky plan to get people excited in the lead up.
Currently our staff are undertaking the webolution, an "in house" adaption of the State Library's 23 things Web 2.0 training. We are all blogging and supporting each other through our 9 activity program.
I have decided with 5 more sleeps to go that I will post clues on my blog. The clues are obscure enough not to give it away but will get them close enough to feel satisfied when the announcement comes.
We talked about "shameless self promotion" in our recent FISH workshop, I hope that everyone will get on board and the positive energy will be shared. I really hope that news of the scholarship gets our staff talking about our service and what we do/have compared to other library services, obviously it is exciting for me personally but how it impacts on my colleagues is equally important to me.
I think the award will raise the profile of Hobsons Bay, which will hopefully bring enough fun our way for everyone to share!!

About my award & my blog

2008-11-16T18:53:00.000+11:00

Well, the fact that I am the WINNER of the Margery C Ramsay Scholarship is finally starting to sink in. I am a bit scared! I will need to have my picture taken and talk to strangers and promote not only my work but myself. Yep scary!!
But in for a penny in for a pound...I have decided to create a blog.
A big commitment as I am only new to blogging but I think that in this time of advanced technology it is the right thing to do. People will be able to follow my research, look at my pictures and comments, link to articles and books that I have read and most importantly post comments, questions and share ideas.
The blog is not posh or formal (that just isn't me!) but it will combine a mix of my research as well as my thoughts and feelings about my progress and what I have been up to.
I apologize now in advance if I visit your library and say there were parts of it I didn't like....feel free to come and visit me and make constructive comments about my library service (there are parts of it I don't like too).
Know that I have a great love and respect for libraries. I visit them when on holiday (much to the disappointment of my non-library partner)
I will warn you now that I am not a quiet Librarian (too right my colleagues say!) I have no issue with food, drink or mobile phones in libraries, if you have signs saying "no food" I will probably comment on them! Nor am I a member of the library Police and generally feel that these days customers can police each other with regard to what is acceptable in a library.
I hope that all comments will be received as they are intended: purely my interpretation of what I see, hear and feel and definitely not a hex on any library service.
I hope you enjoy my blog....and feel free to comment!! Jo

Conference Day 1 (technically trip day 2)

2008-11-02T17:20:00.001+11:00

Well who would have thought my little trip to New Zealand would put me in communications hell. I have my blackberry but for some reason it is SOS only so I can not send text messages or emails. What does a girl who is usually surgically attached to her phone do in such a situation?! Shopping of course!!
After a late arrival last night (v.early morning), I enjoyed a lazy sleep in. Surfacing about 11am I registered (quicker than ALIA, just a booklet and a name tag) then went for a wander down the street. Auckland is obviously not a hub for weekend trading as it was very calm and quiet but a few places were open, I managed to pick up a few early Christmas Prezzies which is a bonus. It was nice just mooching and recognising the places I went with Tom last time I was here.
It was while we were in NZ that I logged onto the Hobsons Bay Website from Devonport Library and found out that they were advertising the role which eventually became mine. If I had not recommended the library to Tom as an internet access point I may never have started working for Hobsons Bay Libraries...SPOOKY.

The conference started at 1.30pm with a traditional Powhiri (welcome ceremony) so far the group is much smaller than ALIA and many seem to know each other, which is a bit intimidating. Have spoken to 3 other delegates so far and have arranged for a little look around Auckland City Library on Monday evening, which is a bit exciting.
Have just left the welcome drinks with my haul of free stuff. Spoke to Chelsea from Bolinda who says there are a few places testing audio downloads in December. All being well she will contact us in the New Year to see what we want/can afford to trial.