Olds Municipal Library

OML and Olds College Travel the World Wide Web...but never ever picks the flowers along the way!

2012-01-25T19:46:00.004-07:00

Tonight marked the first connection for our winter Hort Week Speaker series in partnership with the Olds College. Since the Bell E-Learning centre and the Olds Library Community Engagement site were finished we have had a number of video conferences of varying degrees around the province. Some have had 8-10 participants, some up to 30 at various sites. Today we've surpassed anything we've done to this point. We are happy to say that through our partnership with Olds College we have been able to reach to corners of the province we've never reached before. The topics of the series have garnered great interest with hundreds of people!

Tonight we heard about Wild Flower Identification. Annelise Doolaege took us through the many nature trails we have in Alberta and showed us what types of wild flowers we might see along the way. We connected with sites in Cremona, Carstairs, Elnora, Penhold, Delburn, Wetaskiwin, Calgary, Red Deer, and Leduc. In Olds we had such an overwhelming response that we had to open up two sites! We had hundreds of people watching via the official video conference.

However, the fun didn't stop there. We took advantage of today's technology and connected the rest of the world to the presentation via Ustream. We will be uploading the saved video to YouTube as soon as it's up and running! If you missed it you can check the video out on Ustream and YouTube.

Our Facebook and Twitter followers were updated with photos and sneak peeks as well. Ultimately we were very pleased with the first session of our Hort week series and invite you to register for the next conference in February.

http://oml.prl.ab.ca/community.php#hortweek

http://www.ustream.tv/channel/hort-week-speaker-series

Lesley Winfield
Library Manager

SOPA and Censorship How does it affect Canada?

2012-01-18T08:49:00.001-07:00

If you hadn't heard of SOPA before, some of the internet's most influential sites—Reddit and Wikipedia among them—are going dark to protest the much-maligned anti-piracy bill. According to gizmodo.com, other than being a very bad thing, SOPA is a bill in the United States that is working it’s way through congress. The bill would grant content creators extraordinary power over the internet. Basically, the ability of intellectual property owners (re: studios and labels) to effectively pull the plug on foreign sites against whom they have a copyright claim. If Warner Bros., for example, says that a site in Italy is torrenting a copy of The Dark Knight, the studio could demand that Google remove that site from its search results, that PayPal no longer accept payments to or from that site, that ad services pull all ads and finances from it, and—most dangerously—that the site's ISP prevent people from even going there. To read more about SOPA view this link http://gizmodo.com/5877000/what-is-sopaor read the bill http://www.opencongress.org/bill/112-h3261/show

But how will this affect Canada? According to the CBC article posted today http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/story/2012/01/17/f-sopa-canada.html by Daniel Schwartz, there are two similar bills addressing protection of intellectual property online currently being considered by Congress: the Stop Online Piracy Act (SOPA), which is before the House of Representatives judiciary committee, and the Protect Intellectual Property Act (PIPA), which is to be voted on by the Senate next week.

Although SOPA and PIPA are intended to target "rogue" websites, for Canadians, the concern is that if the laws are passed, there might be collateral damage that harms legitimate sites. If SOPA becomes law, University of Ottawa law professor Michael Geist expects the U.S.to try to export its rules to Canada and other countries. Under SOPA,intellectual property protection will become "a significant component ofU.S. foreign policy," Geist writes. The above links are great resources toread more about this issue.

Lesley Winfield

Library Manager

Welcoming Communities Video Project

2011-12-05T09:36:00.001-07:00

Welcoming newcomers to our community has always been dear to my heart. I believe that in order to create a sense of community we all need to do our part. When you're neighbour moves in next door... say hello. When you see someone new on the street... say hello. The same is true for newcomers from other countries. Many times we let our fear of saying the wrong thing, or fear of being thought of as silly or stupid get in the way of making a connection with someone. This is what Welcoming and Inclusive Communities is all about.

As many of you may or may not know, the AUMA was doing a videoproject that began in the summer about Welcoming and Inclusive Communities and ourlibrary was featured as a highlight for best practices in the province. This isnot the only story about libraries doing a great job but it is one story and wewere honoured to be able to share what we are doing.

The new website for the AUMA Provincial Welcoming andInclusive Communities initiative is up and running. http://wic.auma.ca/ Our video is featured under the Newcomers tabalong the side bar. http://wic.auma.ca/Newcomers/

I was also asked to speak about our building project and howwe made our space welcoming for the entire community as well as newcomers. Thiswas also a great honour. Again I shared one story about how libraries in theprovince step up to the plate when offering services to the community, particularlyfor newcomers. As many of you know, the library can be the first point ofcontact for a lot of people moving into our community because it’s a publicspace and there are so many services available.

The ‘Come Together’ conference was a great one. I hope you will all getused out of the resources on the website as well. I also hope you’ll share the video with asmany people as you can. They’ve done a great job at showing how great of acommunity Olds is to be.

For a direct link to the video click http://wic.auma.ca/working/script/OldsVideo.mp4

Lesley Winfield
Library Manager
Olds Municipal Library

A Year in the Life of Your Library

2011-11-03T10:34:00.001-07:00

November2, 2011 marked the one year anniversary of the newly renovated library being open to the public and what a whirlwind year it’s been. The citizens of Olds continue to take advantage of the great materials we have available. Books,Music, Movies, eBooks and more seem to fly off the shelves with increases eachyear in the number of materials being accessed. Since opening we have already seen a 13% increase in items borrowed by citizens for a total of over 95,000.

The number of items making their way into the homes in Olds and area isn’t the only increase we’ve seen. We’ve been able to lend over 24,000 items to other libraries around the province and bring in more than 14,000 items from other libraries for library users. Speaking of library users; young, seasoned, student, businessman, parent or single, the library is a great equalizer and a gathering place for the community. Already, we’ve welcomed over 56,000 people through our doors to attend programs, use the internet, pick up a book, or even just to chat with a friend. This is already a 27% increase over last year.

The new facility has opened many doors for programming opportunities as well. Since January we’ve held 272 programming sessions and helped inspire over 2000residents in our various programs. We are excited to be able to partner this year with organizations around the community including Mountain View Communities Adult Learning, Olds Chamber of Commerce, Olds Connected Communities, and the Town of Olds to name a few.

Finally, we have seen thousands of people come through our doors to take advantage ofour free internet and WiFi. Our TechZone has allowed us to offer a number oflearning sessions to the community. One program of specific note is our "Computers for Seniors and Beginners" that filled up 6 times over, allowing us to run it again and again. Regular session of internet use amount to almost 15,000 already this year, which is a 42% increase over last year.

We would like to thank the citizens of Olds, the Town of Olds and the County ofMountain View for their continued support. We look forward to serving you for many years to come! Ask us a question, take out a book, or come and have coffee by the fire. However you use your library, we’re here for you.

By Lesley Winfield

Olds Municipal Library Manager

A Day in the Life of Your Library

2011-10-24T10:08:00.005-06:00

October 19th was snapshot day. Snapshot day, if your wondering, is a look into a typical day in the life of the library. Click, Click, Click, full of pictures, memories, and experiences.

Click. You walk in the door. What do you see? The Tech Zone: full of people checking emails, catching up on Facebook, looking for internet postings, playing games. People love the free Wi-Fi, and Internet Use. We love that about you too.

Click. Library Mural on the wall - Why do you love your library?

We love what you shared with us. In the middle just a drawn happy face - :). In bottom corner in kids writing "Emily's Jr. Readers. Club". "I can find whats going on in Olds". "Books, comfortable place to sit and read, internet, it's all fantastic!" All written by anonymous people, and you've said it all. :)

Click. Its 10:00. What's Happening? Drop-in Genealogy. Gerry from the Family History Centre is helping a patron learn how to navigate Ancestry.ca and how to research into a family tree.

Click. You look at the eboard to find what's happening in Olds, at the Library and area events, maybe take in a book trailer or two.

Click. Walk into the library. Find people studying, catching up on paperwork perhaps, enjoying kids games on the children's computer. Searching for their next read, or attending a library program.

Click. You are at the Information Desk. Checking out books, paying fines with food, and we're finding answers for your questions. Here's a few questions that you asked that day: "How do you search for eBooks on the catalogue", "What's the username for wifi?", "My grandson HATES books - what can you recommend for him?".

Click. Behind the scenes - Volunteers packing our bags for requests going out, processing things to go out on the shelf, filling the book sale, our pages hard at work shelving books and keeping order.

Click. Programs, Programs and more programs - Genealogy, Story Hour, Jr.Reader's Club and our special guest for the Day - Carolyn Fischer, who did 2 Author Talks. In total there were 60 of you who enjoyed one or more of our programs! We loved seeing all your smiling faces.

Click. You filled out a survey - we asked questions: Why is the library important to you? What is your all time favourite book? Favourite books and authors included - The Alchemist (Paulo Coelho), Nicholas Sparks, The Book Thief (Markus Zuzak), "Too many to pick", Barbar, Disney books, Minette Walters. I agree with them all. Every book is my favorite - so many stories to tell! And why you said the Library was important to you: " Because it's really good" "Books, Computers & Tables", "Like to come here to read", "The library provides great titles from everywhere - I love the DVD's and access to technology", "Because we love books! - My children have enjoyed story hour that the library offers", "Access to a variety of free reference material - computer use & study", One person stated "I WOULD DIE WITHOUT IT". Wow. Such a fantastic response from you, our community. We'd die without you too. We <3 our patrons!

Click. Our door closes, and with it this story. Tomorrow brings new memories and experiences, we love sharing our stories, and hearing about yours.

Olds Library Snapshot Day October 19, 2011

Click.

Adriene Hagen - with contributions from the Olds Community

Olds Municipal Library

ahagen@libs.prl.ab.ca

October is Library Month

2011-10-17T16:17:00.009-06:00

October is Library Month, so naturally were very excited about it! The Library is hosting a number of activities this month that we hope you'll join us for! (And wow, are we doing a bunch!)

Treat Tuesdays:

Every Tuesday were having Treat Tuesdays! Come to the library and enjoy a treat we picked out especially for you.

Prizes:

Are you a fan of Social Media? Check in on Foursquare or Yelp (or heck, even both) and you will be entered into a draw for a FREE family membership!

Food For Fines - Helping Others:

Food for Fines - are you a bit overdue? Help us help the food bank. For the entire month of October you can donate a non-perishable food item, and we'll waive $1.00 in fines.

Book Sale Specials:

We're having a Book sale the entire month! 25¢ each or fill a grocery bag for $2.00!

Young Alberta Author Talk:

Were're also happy that an Alberta author, Carolyn Fischer is joining us for Snapshot day on the 19th! Carolyn is the author of many children and youth books including "The Snow Show"and will be presenting at 1:00-2:30 & 3:30-4:30.

Snapshot Day:

Click.. what? Snapshot Day is the 19th! Come take part in our days activities! Make your own poster about Your Library, participate in our "Why I love my Library" Mural. Sign our guestbook! All day we'll have treats for you too! Fantastic, treats for everyone.. yummy!

Backyard Astronomy Night:

On the 21st Were having Backyard Astronomy night, where the Royal Astronomical Society of Calgary is unveiling our new telescope as part of their telescope loaning program. That night is also the night of the Orionid Meteor shower. So even if your not behind the eyepiece, you'll have a great view from our Patio!

All Hallow's Eve:

Halloween is going to be a howl at the library! Halloween Howl ages 10-15 - video games, food and fun! Costume prizes will be awarded as well. Mom & Dad need something to do? Take in our Documentary Film Night - Edgar Allen Poe: A journey in verse! Both events start at 6, so bring the whole family for some Halloween Fun!

We hope you'll join us in some fun at the Library, and maybe even pick up a book or two!

Adriene

Dave's Tech Tips: Hands Free Devices

2011-10-12T16:18:00.002-06:00

Hands free devices; are they worth it and what’s the big deal? Well, hands free devicesare now considered mandatory. With the passing of the new Distracted Driver lawon September 1, 2011, it is now illegal to be doing anything in your vehiclethat takes your hands away from the steering wheel while driving. Specifichighlights point toward the usual culprits; using hand-held cell phones,texting, using electronic devices such as laptops or entering GPS information,reading printed materials such as books or newspapers, writing or personalgrooming such as applying makeup or shaving.

This new legislation carries with it a hefty $172 fine which is far more expensive thanyour typical hands free device. Think if you will of a multiple offender of theDistracted Driving legislation, three offences is equal to $516! One Bluetooth headset can cost as little as$19.99, talk about a no brainer. Hands free devices can reduce the distractionof placing and receiving calls allowing you to focus on what’s reallyimportant; keeping your eyes on the road and both hands on the wheel.

The hands free device that works best for you will depend on the type of device youwould prefer, the use of the device and the cost. Bluetooth technology makes wirelesscommunication possible by connecting devices in close proximity to one another.Typically Bluetoothheadsets like the one pictured to the above are ideal as they are meant forportability and ease of use. Just hang it on or insert it in your ear and you’reoff. Bluetooth headsets perform one function, hands free telephone calls. They allow you to answer andspeak/listen to a call without having to touch your phone which is perfect fordrivers; however, not everyone wants to have a small device attached to theside of their head.

If you’re the type of person who would prefer a speakerphone style system in yourvehicle, there are many options to choose from. Rear-view mirror-mountedBluetooth systems such asthe Yada Bluetooth®Rear-view Mirror(pictured above) allow you to speak in your vehicle as though you were on aspeakerphone in your home and fully integrated systems such as the Chrysler U-Connect™ system or Ford SYNC®, that work through your vehicle’ssound system.

With theincrease of distracted driver laws being introduced in provinces and statesacross North America, it is becoming more and more typical that these systemswill be built into vehicles as standard equipment. SYNC®by Microsoft (foundin Ford vehicles) integrates completely with the vehicle connecting with yoursmart phone and allowing you to control and listen to your music as well asmaking hands free phone calls and automatically contacting emergency services inthe event of an accident.

Integratedsystems also take advantage of voice recognition allowing you to place calls,play music, change cabin climate controls or even get directions or look upbusinesses just by speaking to the car and giving commands. With today’savailable technology, it’s a wonder why more people aren’t using these systemsin their vehicles on a daily basis.

Automakers,drivers and authorities know hands free devices aren’t just practical, they’resmart and they’re safe.

David Whan
Computer Services
Olds Municipal Library

dwan@libs.prl.ab.ca

Sources;
Distracted Driver Legislation - http://www.transportation.alberta.ca/distracteddriving.htm
SYNC®- http://www.ford.com/technology/sync/
U-Connect™ - http://www.chryslercanada.ca/en/tech_entertainment.php

New Databases and Navigating the Invisible Web

2011-09-23T11:46:00.000-06:00

The Internet is a wonderful tool for finding just about anything you're looking for! Google has fast become the quickest search engine around and the term "google it" has actually become a verb. It was added to the Oxford English Dictionary on June 15, 2006. For basic knowledge this is a great tool! If I want to know what other people in the world think about a topic or if I need to know what's some one's best advice on writing is I can google the information and come up with thousands of sites written by everyday folk with informative answers to my questions. I may even get to blogs such as this with opinions from professionals, students, or the girl down the street. As someone who loves to research little facts throughout the day I often find myself going to Google for a quick answer to my question or a link to an organization who has done the same research as I have. However, what if you want to go more in depth? What if you want to see peer reviewed articles written by people in that field of study? That is where you need to enter the invisible web.

The invisible web or the Deep web is the content on the Internet that is not part of the surface web. The surface web is indexed and available to search engines to find. However, many of today's resources are hidden deeper. Users need passwords to access the information, they may be sites with a lot of images that don't have tags on them.To read more about the invisible web visit this Wikipedia article, (another great resource for information on the web) According to this article, "to discover content on the Web, search engines use web crawlers that follow hyperlinks. This technique is ideal for discovering resources on the surface Web but is often ineffective at finding deep Web resources. For example, these crawlers do not attempt to find dynamic pages that are the result of database queries due to the infinite number of queries that are possible.^[1] It has been noted that this can be (partially) overcome by providing links to query results, but this could unintentionally inflate the popularity for a member of the deep Web."

Databases available at your library are a great way to experience the deeper content on the web. http://www.prl.ab.ca/databases The Olds municipal library offers a number of databases for the people in the Town of Olds and surrounding area.In fact, our databases, provided by The Alberta Library are also available in almost any library in Alberta with almost any library card. We have some new ones that I was checking out and I wanted to share them because i think they are great!

The first on the list is Canadian Points of View database. This database, (search site), contains in-depth information on over 100 topics of interest, from human rights to substance abuse. Presents material from a range of views, giving readers a foundation to better understand controversial issues in order to develop persuasive arguments and analytical thinking skills. This is a great database for students in college and university as well as people who like to keep up with current Canadian points of view on various topics. Some of the topics I found rather interesting to browse were War & Terrorism, Energy, Economy, and even Body Image. This database also helps you write a thesis statement, judge fact vs. Opinion, and write a topic sentence as some examples. There is even a handy In the spotlight box that gives current topics in the news. This is a fun database to play with!

Also new is the Career Cruising database. This guidance and planning tool can help anyone find the right career path by exploring education and training options. There are profiles of hundreds of occupations as well as real-life interviews, assessment tools, access to college, university and apprenticeship information, and a personal portfolio tool with a built-in resume builder.Great for anyone looking for a new career or planning for the future. All you need to do is create your own user name and password, and you're off!

Another oldie but goodie that I wanted to mention was Canadian Newsstand. Full-text articles of many Canadian newspapers from 1985 onward, including Alberta dailies and weeklies! Calgary Herald, Globe and Mail, Vancouver Sun? All of these are available and many only have a delay of two days. This is great for going back and researching articles as well. Looking for an article from 1995, this database goes back as far as 1988 for the Calgary Herald.

How do I access them?
All you need is your library card. Visit our database page at http://www.prl.ab.ca/databases and get started today. Your library card number is your borrower ID and your Pin is the last 4 digits of your phone number, (unless you've changed it).

Happy surfing!

Welcoming and Inclusive Olds

2011-09-09T11:35:00.000-06:00

In Olds we are blessed to have many cultures, manyfaces, and many races represented. Our community appears to be forwardthinking, proactive, and very welcoming to newcomers immigrating to Canada aswell as temporary foreign workers who are filling a need in our community. Weare a welcoming and inclusive community (WIC)!

The residents joining our fine community arequickly welcomed with open arms by the local ministerial, schools, adultlearning council, and the library to name a few. Olds is also lucky to have agroup of organizations that are dedicated to providing services to newcomersincluding ESL training and tutoring, multilingual welcome to Olds guides, adultreader collections, multicultural family literacy kits, culture cafes, and evenfree language learning software for anyone interested in learning a foreign languageor even English. Many of the partner organizations are also Safe Harbour locations.

Most of these services are free of charge in thecommunity as well. The work of these many organizations has made Olds theWelcoming and Inclusive community that it has first become. Because of theforward thinking community members in Olds, we have also been in closepartnership with the provincial WIC initiatives by the AUMA (Alberta UrbanMunicipal Association).

The AUMA providesleadership in advocating local government interests to the provincialgovernment and other organizations, and provides services that address theneeds of its membership. Alberta’s cities, towns, villages, summer villages,and specialized municipalities are members of the Association. The AUMAWelcoming and Inclusive Communities (WIC) initiative is a partnership betweenthe AUMA, the Alberta Human Rights Commission and the Human Rights branch ofAlberta Culture and Community Spirit. The goal of the initiative is to buildmunicipal capacity to combat racism and other forms of discrimination inAlberta communities.

WIC has just launched a video projectto support Alberta municipalities in the successful attraction, retention andintegration of newcomers. In addition to developing a set of online tools andresources to support the work of municipal officials and administration, we arecurrently creating a set of four best practice videos. The short videos will beembedded on the WIC site, and will profile a few Alberta municipalities thatare doing exciting and innovative things to be welcoming and inclusive ofnewcomers. Our library is happy to be a part of this project.

The four videos aimto be representative of the vast differences between Alberta communities. Atthis point, we envision profiling a large center (Edmonton), a smallercommunity (Olds), a municipality with a long history of welcoming a largenumber of immigrants (Brooks), and a northern municipality with a specificindustry focus (Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo).

Why Olds we asked?"We know through our work that libraries can be an important resource andplace of connection for newcomers. Olds’ new library offers several valuableservices that can be highlighted as best practices that other municipalitiescan learn from. Some of the services we would like to feature are: thelibrary’s partnership with CARE, Multicultural Family Literacy Kits, MangoLanguage learning software, computer access to allow connection with family incountries of origin, and the library’s multilingual collection. We would alsolike to feature the Newcomer’s Guide to Olds which was creating through theWelcoming Communities Committee."

If you would likemore information about our services to newcomers please visit our website http://oml.prl.ab.caor call us at 403-556-6460.

Literacy in Alberta and Beyond: International Literacy Day 2011

2011-09-02T09:39:00.000-06:00

September 8th, 2011 marks the 45th annual International Literacy Day. UNESCO (United Nations Education, Scientific and Cultural Organization) declared September 8^th International Literacy Day on November 17^th 1965. It was first celebrated in 1966.

According to UNESCO, 776 million adults worldwide lack minimum literacy skills; one in five adults is still not literate and two-thirds of them are women; 75 million children are out-of-school and many more attend irregularly or drop out. The goal of International Literacy Day is to raise awareness about literacy throughout the world, in communities, and to individuals.

To bring the numbers closer to home, I also wanted to share with you some numbers and information from the Government of Alberta's "Living Literacy Framework". Published in 2009, the framework provides action to coordinate efforts for the Government of Alberta to improve literacy levels of Albertans. I was almost shocked to read that 40% of Albertans over the age of 16 struggle with basic literacy.

What is basic literacy?

According to P. Freire in his work Pedagogy of the Oppressed literacy involves, "reading the word and the world." Also, M. Fullan in Breakthrough says literacy, "is about problem solving, teamwork, knowledge of the world, adapting and comfort in a global world of technologies, conflict and complexity."

Those struggling with basic literacy are likely never going to read this blog, the fact that you are scanning and comprehending my opinions makes you very luckily not within that 40% who are under a level 3. Ultimately, literacy is about more than reading and writing. Though reading and writing are the basic starting point, literacy is about understanding and engaging in one's world.

The international adult literacy survey gives the descriptions for literacy levels.

Level 5 – Very strong skills able to find information in dense text and make high-level inferences or use specialized background information.

Level 4 – Strong skills able to integrate and synthesize information from complex or lengthy passages.

Level 3 – Adequate skills for coping in a complex advanced society. Equivalent to the skill level required for high school completion and college entry.

Level 2 – Weak skills, can deal with simple clearly laid out material. May be able to cope with everyday demands but will have difficulty with new situations.

Level 1 – Very poor skills, may not be able to determine the correct dosage from the label on a medicine bottle. 8

Why is Literacy Important?

It stands to reason that people who have higher literacy skills have a better understanding about their communities, their provinces, and their countries. They tend to be more engaged in current events, and as a result become engaged citizens in their communities. People who have higher literacy skills tend to me healthier as well. Their ability to understand the doctor’s recommendations and even simply read the dosage on the medicine bottle can be affected by a lack of literacy skills.

According to the framework mentioned above, "The TD Bank Financial Group projected that raising the literacy of Canadians with inadequate reading skills (levels 1 and 2) to an adequate skill level (level 3) would have an economic payoff close to $80 billion." In times where recession is looming over our heads and Canadian Libraries in large urban centers are being face with closures to balance the budget, this is an important fact to take note of!

Bringing the numbers even closer to home, how does this translate to numbers in Olds. At the last census we had 5845 residents that were over the age of 16. With 40% of Albertan's struggling to meet basic literacy skills, that translates into over 2000 residents in our very own community that potentially meet only a level 1 or 2 literacy skill level.

However! We are lucky in Olds as well. On August 22nd, 2011 the Town of Olds Council declared September 8th International Literacy Day in the Town of Olds. At the library we are excited to take the time to celebrate!

On September 8th there will be activities throughout the day including a Speaker's Corner video project and a collage art project to let people express what literacy means to them in words, pictures, or however they choose to create. In the evening we will be welcoming local author Maxine Spence and local illustrator Elsie Archer to do a presentation about their newly released book Leaf. The author presentation will begin at 6:00pm and the other activities will happen throughout the day. We hope you will join us in celebrating.

Thanks for taking the time to read!

Lesley Winfield
Library Manager

Olds Municipal Library
5217 52 St Olds, Alberta, Canada

Olds Municipal Library is a Campus Alberta Central Learning Site

2011-08-19T13:49:00.003-06:00

One of the main priorities of the Olds Municipal Library is to help you satisfy curiosity and participate in lifelong learning. We hope that residents will have the resources they need to explore topics of personal interest and continue to learn throughout their lives. In order to further this goal, you can now take credit courses through video conferencing at the Olds Municipal Library & Community Engagement Site. Programs are offered in partnership Campus Alberta Central and covers course material from the following locations.

Olds College www.oldscollege.ab.ca
Red Deer College www.rdc.ab.ca
SAIT Polytechnic (Calgary) www.sait.ab.ca
NAIT (Edmonton) www.nait.ca
Bow Valley College (Calgary) www.bowvalleycollege.ca
NorQuest College (Edmonton) www.NorQuest.ca
Grande Prairie Regional College www.gprc.ab.ca
Grant MacEwan University (Edmonton) www.macewan.ca
Keyano College (Fort McMurray) www.keyano.ca
Lakeland College (Vermilion and Lloydminster) www.lakelandcollege.ca
Lethbridge College www.lethbridgecollege.ab.ca
Medicine Hat College www.mhc.ab.ca
Mount Royal University (Calgary) www.mtroyal.ab.ca
Northern Lakes College (Slave Lake and Grouard) www.northernlakescollege.ca
Portage College (Lac La Biche) www.portagecollege.ca
eCampus Alberta http://www.ecampusalberta.ca/

What is Campus Alberta Central?
A partnership between Olds College and Red Deer College, designated Comprehensive Community Institutions responsible for the stewardship of post secondary learning across the region. The learning is offered in collaboration with existing Community based learning organizations.

What does that mean?
Campus Alberta Central and the Community Adult Learning Councils provide access to post secondary programs for learners where possible in their home communities. Other related activities include: regional needs assessments, post secondary program planning and delivery; and, shared learner support services to assist in learner success.

Where can I connect?
Learners could access Campus Alberta Central Programming in the following communities:

Bashaw
Delburne
Rimbey
Bowden
Drumheller
Red Deer
Calgary – Olds Campus
Elnora
Rocky Mountain House
Carstairs
Hanna
Spruce View
Castor
Innisfail
Stettler
Red Deer
Lacombe
Sundre
Consort
Olds (College site AND Library Site)
Three Hills/Trochu
Coronation
Ponoka
Sylvan Lake
Cremona
Pollockville
Sunchild Reserve

How can I sign up?
During the first year of the program the courses offered at the Olds Municipal Library are still in transition. As this relationship evolves we will see more courses offered at our community based site. Learners wishing to sign up need only visit our partner program page http://oml.prl.ab.ca/partner.php and click on the course they are interested in.

Your registration is done with the school providing the learning opportunity. Once you are registered, the school will notify us if there is enough enrollment for a course to run. All you need to do is register and plan to attend your course at the Olds Municipal Library & Community Engagement Site.

(note: if the course is cancelled due to low registration you will be notified by the school)

This is a great partnership between Adult Learning Council's, Colleges, Libraries, and other education providers. We are happy to be a part of the dream.

Strategic Planning at Olds Municipal Library

2011-08-03T10:40:00.002-06:00

The Olds Municipal Library Board has gone through an extraordinary process of public engagement over the past few months. Beginning in January of 2011, the board began the process of renewing it's Strategic Plan of Service. The process used was modeled very closely to the "Strategic Planning for Results" process, as required by the provincial Government.

To begin, the board compiles a committee made up of community members from as many different backgrounds as possible. Age demographics, organization membership, educational background are some examples of the things that were taken into consideration while planning this committee. Simultaneously, there were a number of organizations in town also going to the community for feedback. By partnering with these groups, we felt that we could reach more people, leverage our results, and share in the process together. To begin with we partnered with the Mountain View Adult Learning Society, the Olds Welcoming Communities Committee and eCampus Alberta.

The first meeting was a large community needs assessment. We had a great turn out as participants told us what they wanted to see in Olds to make it the best place to live. We also pulled information from the Olds Sustainability Plan Renewal Meetings, and the Business Vitalities Initiative.

After gathering all this information, we brought our core group of members together once again to boil down the information. The committee looked at what the needs were and compared them to the list of Library Service Responses. They then came up with their top three Library Responses to recommend to the board.

Simultaneously, we held an online survey. Much like our focus groups, we asked the people participating to tell us what they felt our priorities should be. The survey was sent out using social media, was available on our website, and was set as the homepage on all public access stations. This group also came up with their top three service responses.

Finally, it was important for the board and staff to look at what the community asked for and decide the final focus the library will take over the next three years. Meshing together the different information from all meetings the board and staff boiled the information down to the top three service responses. These were responses that matched across all three meetings as important.

Double Click to view Image

The following motion was made by the board:

Motion by Janey Olson , seconded by Murray Ball that we accept the top three library service response priorities as.

Know Your Community: Community Resources and Services – Residents will have a central source for information about the wide variety of programs, services and activities provided by community agencies and organizations.
Create Young Readers: Early Literacy – Children from birth to 5 will have programs and services designed to ensure that they will enter school ready to learn to read, write and listen. ; AND
Satisfy Curiosity: Lifelong Learning – Residents will have the resources they need to explore topics of personal interest and continue to learn throughout their lives.

And further, that the board considers;

Connect to the Online World: Public Internet Access – Residents will have high speed access to the digital world with no unnecessary restrictions or fees to ensure that everyone can take advantage of the ever-growing resources and services available through the Internet.
Express Creativity: Create and Share Content – Residents will have the services and support they need to express themselves by creating original print, video, audio, or visual content in a real-world or online environment.
Get Facts Fast: Ready Reference – Residents will have someone to answer their questions on a wide array of topics of personal interest.
Learn to Read and Write: Adult, Teen and Family Literacy – Adults and teens will have the support they need to improve their literacy skills in order to meet their personal goals and fulfill their responsibilities as parents, citizens and workers. ; AND
Stimulate Imagination: Reading, Viewing and Listening for Pleasure – Residents who want materials to enhance their leisure time will find what they want when and where they want them and will have the help they need to make choices from among the option

as secondary priorities within the Olds Municipal Library Plan of Services for 2012 – 2015.

This information will be used when planning programs, services, and budgeting for the future. We look forward to your feedback! The next step is create clear goals and objectives that will be put into a completed strategic plan. The board will have the completed plan in place by the end of 2011.

Lesley Winfield
Library Manager

OML... OMG! An update on your library

2011-07-20T13:52:00.000-06:00

Half the year is gone. Budgeting for next year has begun. Summer programs have started. New programs are being planned for the Fall, and I decided to take time to reflect on where we've been so far this year. Our community engagement site has been top of my mind over the past few weeks so I felt I would share some statistics with you about programs, participates and visits. (Statistics are so fun!)

The following facts reflect a small portion of the Library & Community Engagement Site (CES) activities; specifically related to technology in the Library & CES In fact they are only a small part of what we do here at the library. However, these numbers alone are staggering when you think that they only reflect our year to date.

8662 Internet Sessions
1435 WiFi Sessions
That's an average of 7 internet sessions an hour.

1494 Technical Questions Asked and informal Training needed
34165 Virtual Visits to our website
67 Programs Sessions Hosted in the CES (doesn't include non CES specific courses)
611 Total Participants in sessions

Programs Held
Robert Munch Live (Webcast from Ontario)
Robert Munch Q&A (Webcast and live twitter QA from Ontario)
Tax Smart Investing (Video conference (VC) From Cremona)
Tyrell Museum (VC from Drumheller)
Remington Carriage House (VC from Cardston)
Head Smashed in Buffalo Jump (VC from Southern Alberta)
Separation and Divorce (VC from Lethbridge)
Novel Ideas (Technology Demonstration)
Mindful Living Study Group (Use of Technology Room to enhance program)
Microsoft Office (Class in Training Lab)
John Reilly Author Talk (Broadcast by VC to 5 other sites)
Chamber Business Series (5 sessions broadcast out to 3 other sites)
Freedom to Read Week Speaker – Censorship (VC from Edmonton…. Broadcast to 5 other sites as well)
E-book, Ereader session –(Class in Training Lab)
Dewey Divas and Dudes – Library PD for Central Alberta (VC from Calgary)
Computers for Seniors and Beginners – (Class in Training Lab)
Being and Executor – (VC from Lethbridge)
An Enduring Power of Attorney – (VC from Lethbridge)
At Home Alone – (VC from Delburn)
Central Alberta Fire Training – (VC out to various locations)
Documentary Series – (Webcast)
Formal One on One Training (class in Training Lab)

A snapshot of other things the CES was used for this year.
Business meetings and organization meetings where technology was needed to run the meeting (i.e. internet, webcast, PowerPoint, audio, etc.)
Developer Meetings and planning sessions
Town of Olds Training
Conference Calls between Alberta and Ontario on several occasions – VOIP and Web interface
Leisure activities – i.e. gaming, and viewing for pleasure.
Room Rentals
Skyping with family in other countries and provinces

To top it all off with some creamy icing in the cake, we've already seen over 36,700 visitors to our facility! At this rate we will welcome over 73,000 visitors in 2011 up from 50,000 in 2010, an estimated 46% increase.

As you can see we've been very busy and very happy to serve you this year! We look forward to seeing you again soon. If you haven't had the chance to explore our Library & CES, ask us to show you around and find out what's new.

Lesley Winfield
Library Manager

Summer Reading Program 2011

2011-06-21T13:45:00.002-06:00

“To see the Summer Sky
Is Poetry, though never in a Book it lie --
True Poems flee –”

- Emily Dickinson

June 21 marks the first day of summer. It seems that with Alberta’s unpredictable weather we do need the calendar to remind us that, yes, summer is coming; summer is here. Children’s brains have been filled with knowledge since September, and at this time, they are eager to begin summer vacation and let it all slip away like sand on the beach in between their fingers. This approach is dangerous, especially to younger children as they learn to read. To fall out of practice in their reading during the summer months can be severely detrimental to their continued progress the next September. Thankfully, there are ways to keep the youngsters practicing their reading while still allowing them to have fun. If you haven’t figured it out yet, I speak, of course, of the Summer Reading Program at the Olds Municipal Library.
Hopefully everyone has seen posters or heard about the summer program this year at the Olds Municipal Library. Hopefully everyone is aware that our theme is “SPLASH!” which allows for plenty of creativity in planning. Starting July 11, 2011, we will be providing seven weeks of educational yet fun activities at the library. Each week has a different theme that still fits under the main overarching theme of “SPLASH!” Every Wednesday, we take a break from the usual routine to participate in a special event.
Since starting at the library, I have been busy planning and promoting this program. It is at some times challenging but at all times exciting. After almost a month of this, I am eager to begin the program and see as many bright, shining faces as possible come to the library. There are only twenty days until the first program starts, but there is still room for more participants! This is my ultimate goal: to take my love for English, words, books, and writing and try my best to transfer it to other willing young people.
If you would like to aid the program in the way of your time, then drop by the library and fill out a volunteer form. Not everyone can volunteer, so another way you can help is through donations of common household items. Our program is in need of:
• Clear plastic water bottles (by July 22, 2011)
• Small baby food jars with lids (by July 29, 2011)
• Empty toilet paper rolls (by August 5, 2011)
• Empty paper towel rolls (by August 12, 2011)
Also, if you have unique or interesting items that fit with our theme that you would be willing to donate for one of our special events (a reinvention of the Truth or Spoof we did for Senior’s Week), please bring them to the library by August 15, 2011, and they will be available for pick up after August 17, 2011.
Thank you for your support of the Olds Municipal Library’s Summer Reading Program!!

Kirsten Evans
Summer Programs Coordinator 2011

Katimavik Says Goodbye in Olds - My Library Experience

2011-06-16T16:43:00.004-06:00

I am very proud to have had the opportunity to volunteer at the Olds Municipal Library over a span of six months. In that time period, I have learned a lot from the people that I have worked with, and have gained some valuable work experience. It was absolutely fantastic to be involved in and learn about the community.

I thoroughly enjoyed working with the staff and other volunteers here. Everyone is so friendly and it has such a lively, yet relaxing atmosphere. I learned so much that I know will benefit me a lot in the near future. For instance, it was my first time working with young children (3-6 year olds) when Chantelle and I helped out at ‘Story Hour’ each week. We got to read to them and guide them when they made their crafts. We also helped in the planning of the “Word of the West/COW Bus” Literacy Festival. Unfortunately we won’t be here to join the event, but I hope it all goes well.

Other things that I got to do while working here included deleting books, writing blogs, arranging the books and shelves, making crafts, using the Citrix and anything else that needed help around the library.

I have also gained some valuable skills working on a computer, yet being aware of how that would change what someone would want to express. Through research I have learned many interesting things about libraries and their relationship with the rest of society.

Although I have previously volunteered at a library in my home community in Quebec, this is much different. This is a new, vibrant library and nearly all of the storage data is computerized. There are so many services here that support and help the community as well. I’m glad to have been a part of providing it to the public.

I’m really going to miss everyone here and all of the fun things that we’ve done. There was never a boring day and I loved listening to everyone’s stories and joining in the festivities, like the morning huddles, the afternoon teas and the ‘Truth or Spoof?’

I want to wish everyone here a great future and I hope the library stays strong. It’s amazing what all of the staff and volunteers have done to serve the community. Thanks so much for giving me the opportunity to volunteer here and to obtain knowledge and experience that will help me in the future. Hopefully I will be able to get back to Olds again (which I now call my second home), and visit the library in a few years!

Sincerely
Jeremy Pauze
A Katimavik member

Truth or Spoof? Celebrating Senior's Week

2011-06-06T14:02:00.010-06:00

Seniors make a difference in our communities every day. From supporting family members and friends to assisting charities and volunteering, seniors are deeply involved in our communities and their contributions benefit Albertans of all ages. (http://www.seniors.alberta.ca/seniorsweek)

Libraries have changed a lot over thee years, but one thing that has not changed is the faithfulness and love of some of our oldest patrons. Many of today's seniors have had the opportunity to see us through the establishment of a library, moving and building a library, then renovating and revitalizing our library once again. Each senior has there own fond memories about what the library means to them.

On June 9, 2011 we had the opportunity to show our seniors what they mean to us! Olds Municipal Library was honoured to have so many seniors show up to our Truth or Spoof & Seniors Tea.

Truth or Spoof - You Guess who's telling the truth! Volunteers & Library Staff presented a variety of historical objects and it your job was to spot the spoofers! Everyone had a fun looking at the artifacts and listening to the expalinations given by the panel. Once everyone gave their answer, participants could guess who they thought was telling the truth. We hope you enjoy the pictures of our event and that you'll join us next year!

Olds Talks: Do we ever really talk anymore?

2011-06-02T14:23:00.000-06:00

In an age of everything digital, soccer games, work, shopping, and the continual buzz of well... life, I've recently started to ponder that people just don't "talk" anymore. When was the last time you sat on your front porch and visited with neighbours? We tend to retreated to the back yard and put up fences as high as we can to keep our privacy.

The old fashioned "town hall meetings", are a think of the past. Maybe we just don't have the right forum for gettting together and talking about things that really matter to us? Recently, I had the privlege of attending the Olds Advisory Group for Sustainable Living's Community Engagement day on May 14th at the Olds High School and I was inspired! There were so many people who wanted to talk about Olds, further, everyone had such great ideas!

The format of that day was simple, casual, and welcoming, which allowed people to talk about the issues they had pressing on their minds without feeling intimidated. Everyone jumped in with both feet! The conversations were buzzing around the room and the one common thread I heard over and over again was, "We should do this more often. I love just getting together and talking."

One of the participants of that day was thinking along the same lines, and now we have, OLDS TALKS! On June 7th anyone and everyone who wants to have coffee and strike up a conversation with other community members is welcome to come. The night is casual and we will be talkikng about anything you want! Thanks to Hugh Bodmer for organizing the event!

The information can be found at the link below. We look forward to seeing you there!

Olds Talks Event Information

Dark Side of Chocolate Film Night

2011-05-17T15:56:00.009-06:00

On May 13, 2011 the Olds Municipal Library, in partnership with the Olds Fair Trade committee, enjoyed a showing of the film, "The Dark Side of Chocolate". The film was followed by a great conversation and yummy fair trade cupcakes, baked by the Cocoa Tree Bake Shoppe. In fact we liked it so much we're considering holding film nights on a regular basis!

However, if you missed the film it's still worth watching! You can view the film online at Documentary Storm.com. We would love to hear you feedback. To find out more about the film and it's production visit the films website http://www.thedarksideofchcolate.org.

A little history about the choices that the library board has made...

The Olds Municipal Library board made a motion in the spring of 2010 that all library sponsored events would ensure there is the choice to choose fair trade and or local when they are serving food and beverages. Other organizations can be involved to! We invite you to contact the fair trade committee at fairtradeolds@oldsinstitute.com for more information about businesses that sell fair trade products as well as other organizations that have made the commitment to Fair Trade.

It's also important to remember that choosing fair trade doesn't mean that we don't shop locally. The best choice for purchasing products will always be supporting our local economy, famers and producers. However, where there is a choice to purchase products that can't be locally grown or crafted, the library board and staff have chosen products that have been traded fairly on the world market.

There are also a number of products that are available that have equally impressive organizations backing them. We encourage citizens of Olds to make informed decisions and look into the products they choose to buy. How were they made? Where did the materials come from? How much energy was consumed to get the product from the field to your plate? Most products today have a website that will tell you more about them or the "logo" that is backing them. Don't just assume that because it says GREEN, that it's environmentally friendly. We love it when people research!

The library has a number of resources available for patrons about the subject! Check out some of these books available @yourlibrary.

Fair Trade: A Beginner's Guide
Fair Trade for All
100 Mile Diet
Agriculture in Harmony with Nature
Consuming Choices: Ethics in a Global Consumer Age [eBook] - on order
Megatrends 2010: the rise of conscious capitalism

This will give you a start but it's not the end! If you'd like to read more or find out more information your librarian's are standing by waiting to help you! We'd also love to answer your questions on this blog if you want to post comments and questions we welcome them.

Lesley Winfield
Library Manager

BookMyne.. Your Library On the Go!

2011-05-17T12:31:00.008-06:00

Search for, request, or renew books while sunning at the beach or eating cookies with grandma or...anywhere!

BookMyne is a free iPhone app that lets you search the catalogue, see what you have on loan, renew items that you’ve borrowed, and place a hold on materials. When you first launch the app, you will see nearby libraries. You can set up your account with your library barcode and PIN (last 4 digits of your phone number), and then log in to search for books, find reviews, and place holds. You can also see what you have checked out and when it is due. What's more, BookMyne remembers your library card barcode number for you!

Olds Municipal Library is one of the 50 libraries in the Parkland Regional Library network that is now registered with BookMyne. Visit the Apple App Store or iTunes Store to download BookMyne and get your library on-the-go!

Language Learning Software

2011-05-02T14:39:00.001-06:00

Would you like to learn another language? Do you need help learning English?

Olds Municipal Library is excited to be able to offer Language Learning software to Olds and Area residents very soon! This past weekend the Province of Alberta announced an increase in funding to the Alberta Library system that will mean we will be able to provide Mango Language learning software to our residents.

With your library card, you will be able to learn many languages in an easy to use online format from any computer that has the internet. You will be able to choose from Chinese (Mandarin), Farsi, French, German, Greek, Hebrew, Hindi, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish, Thai, Turkish, Vietnamese and YES! English as a Second Language.

Keep watching for more information about when you will be able to log on and use Mango!

The New Digital Age and the Old Community Librar

2011-03-31T15:30:00.000-07:00

How Digital Reality can Influence its Effects and Own the Library

About the past three decades or so, the library has been going through gradual, almost secretive transformations. With the advent of new digital technologies, it’s not only going through some changes, but it’s possibly even disappearing all together. It is occurring so subtlety that it’s barely perceptible to us, the growth of media and information networks eclipsing its very existence. Its future role is uncertain as the world is constantly binding, forming a complete and uniform globalized society.

Nearly a thousand years the library served as the zenith in gathering information, a gigantic encyclopaedia available to the public. It gives opportunities to those who want quiet and peaceful areas to study, and acts as a great place for social gatherings and hosting community events. In an age of massive information overload and propaganda, the library has lost much of its power from the media. Where once everything was documented clearly in library sources, now it’s displayed by other means where it isn’t necessarily all completely exposed.

Automatic books have abruptly been replacing standard books in recent years. More people are going on the internet, enable to read books and use some resources that libraries normally would provide. All of the information and resources can now be accessed in the home. This factor alone has dramatically altered the way that libraries are traditionally used. With the compaction of information comes a greater reliance onto a single resource, and that resource has invaded nearly every aspect of our lives. It’s a paradox that has created some challenging problems.

Lots of the delegates at the M-Library International Conference, which was held on November 13, 2007, had clear views on the current issue. With biased opinions, being influenced by the focus of the conference itself (hence the name, which in full stands for Mobile Library); acknowledged in supposed promises of vigorous digital libraries of the future. A delegate said “It’s an exciting idea to think about mobile technologies being used … for information transmission. I am particularly interested in services for non-resident students; it has always been a challenge for us to get information … to the students at the right time.” Most other conference members had similar opinions.

Years ago the digital world was still an infant, and libraries were one of the largest sources of information available. They also provided a multitude of different services for the community. Now we are bombarded with much more on a daily basis, and it can easily be presented as somewhat oblique. That’s why libraries like this need to be preserved, because traditionally they offer much more than what any other supplement can provide. Their equity and hospitality cannot be matched.

Since its creation, the library has served as ‘a collection of useful material for common use’. In modern times, many propose that it’s easier and far more convenient to use the internet. In a survey conducted by the Netlibrary, 93 % of undergraduate students proclaim that it seems to make more sense, rather than to use a physical library. They also deduce that with the supposed decrement of copyrighted material, information on the web is more accessible. Heaps of materials are just a few clicks away.

Even as technology becomes the apex of information systems, the role of the library may become very different. No one probably knows for certain what will happen to its various functions. Enable to sustain a positive future for our libraries; we must take a few antagonistic steps and assess the situation before continuing. There’s no coincidence, with purposefully contradictory conclusions it assures the complete truth. The library is being extinguished by the rise of digital technology; in an age that will bring changes to the way that we receive information.

Sincerely Jeremy Pauze

A Katimavik Volunteer

Information and Resources:

www.dlib.org/dlib/october03/lombardi/11lombardi.html

www.usatoday.com/.../2007-09-11-library-evolution_N.htm

www.teleread.com/library/libraries-and-their-reinvention-in-the-digital-age

www.iso.org/iso/kiosk/39/press release.htm? refined=Ref1313er

web.mit.edu/left/community forum/forums date/dart ton.html

flydenver.com/

knowledge-exchange.info/Default.aspx?ID=533

bookseller-association.blogspot.com/2009/.../library-in-digital age.htm

www.britannica.com/EBchecked/.../Redefining-the-Library-in-the-Digital Ag

Bedtime Stories

2011-03-18T14:50:00.002-07:00

There once was a young girl named Debby, who burst into excitement whenever her parents brought out a book to read. After getting snuggled up under the blankets, her mother sat at the edge of the bed and opened The Ten Parts of Aidem Castle. After opening the first page and starting to read, Deb’s imagination soared as soon as she heard her mother’s story voice. She thought of knights, dragons, princesses…

Numerous studies have indicated that most children consider the joys of bedtime stories to be their favourite pastime with their parents. When they listen to the funny and creative sounds that their parents make as they read, it allows them to process speech, so they can learn how to read themselves. They also learn how to listen attentively and use their imagination.

Unfortunately, almost half of children today don’t get the benefits that come out of bedtime stories. Although most parents agree that reading stories to their kids is a valuable component to their learning and growth, many admit that they are too busy and don’t have the time to make it a daily routine.

The stories don’t have to be very long enable for children to become absorbed by them. Even a short picture book would sustain their interest and help them to have a good night’s sleep. However, enable for them to develop their literary skills, it should be a regular activity. It is also beneficial to start reading to them when they’re very young, so they can learn at an early age. Even reading to toddlers is very helpful, for although they may not understand everything that you’re saying, they will enjoy the sound of your voice and looking at the colourful pictures in the book.

The many new things that children would acquire through listening to stories, although seemingly technical, come out quite naturally and usually imperceptibly.

Studies have also shown that children who listen to bedtime stories develop a greater sense of awareness and emotional stability later in life. They inherit a greater relationship with the world around them, and learn from the morals that come with good stories.

A child’s health would also be positively affected by reading them bedtime stories. They would get a fuller and more routine sleep, allowing them to have good dreams. They would also be able to concentrate and focus easier.

Another benefit is that it encourages children to keep reading as they get older. Their love of reading and using their imaginations would be sustained. They can also learn how to express themselves through writing.

In an age where children are frequently being bombarded by the media through television and the internet, there is less of a chance for them to connect with their parents in a learning activity that will help them with several life skills.

Reading time should be treasured and not wasted. It is a valuable opportunity for children to learn and develop a love of reading and writing.

The skills that can develop through reading bedtime stories are staggering. Children would not only learn how to read and listen, but they will also learn about the ideas and conventions of written words. The values that they could process would last a lifetime.

“…And so they lived ever after” the mother said reluctantly. After seeing what time it was, she closed the book, blew out the candle, and tucked her daughter into bed, wishing her a good night’s rest. Soon Debby closed her eyes and almost immediately she fell asleep.

The End

Jeremy Pauze

Links:

www.parents.com › Family Fun › Entertainment › Books

www.articlesbase.com › Home and Family › Parenting

gomestic.com › Family

www.guardian.co.uk/education/2008/may/13/schools.uk4

medicmagic.net/benefits-of-reading-children-bedtime-stories.html

socyberty.com › Education

The History (and the Possible Future) of the Dictionary

2011-03-03T17:31:00.001-07:00

Thenadays, the lexicon of words was much more a picayune, the dictionary a less commodious apparatus. Yestern, hitherto ostensibly the birth of Christ, it insinuated a new way of elucidating with its cardinal incarnation.

It was radical, purportedly, the alpha epithetical to the dictionary commenced in the fettle of cuneiform tablets in the Akkadian Empire apropos 2300 BCE. These antediluvian dictionaries are archaic and ergo do not encompass the prosaic, pun-riddled characteristics that we heed in neoteric systems.

It was not until 1604, when Robert Cawdrey indited A Table Alphabeticall, that the English alphabetical dictionary wax incipient. This was innovative because it marshalled thane lexicons don array taxonomic in lieu of subjects (i.e. glean, daresay, intuit, construe, etc…).

It is excogitated that Samuel Johnson comprised the basis regarding the proletarian nature of the book with A Dictionary of the English Language, written in 1755. It was the staple palaver de novo 150 years.

In 1884, the Oxford University Press emanated their Oxford English Dictionary in breviloquent fascicles. The stellar schema (and still is) was to encapsulate a lexicon with scads of information albeit begetting the annotations feasible to comprehend. It has abided through sundry revisions, and has in supplementary had a puffer who in mev a blasphemed murderer and hemmed in an asylum for the illicitly moonstruck.

Topically, the most humongous of all semblances is the Oxford English Dictionary: second edition, subsuming tantamount to 290,000 entries (in accordance to the archetypical structure acquiesced by English scholars). If the mean of all affiliates were propounded with cognizance, it could be opined that the language annexes en masse 500,000 nomenclature. In perusing, the splay preponderance of dictionaries contains perceptibly a brusque divvy aforesaid.

Voguishly, the dictionary is lethargically being ousted under the aegis of the vicissitudes in which the embellishment of media and technology forthwith domineers, this. As the language modulates in the surmised eulogize of technology, less bulwarks are in firm amplitude when excogitating of ensuing. Ergo, ken transpires howbeit venerating a dictionary.

Jeremy Pauzé

Links:

www.babylon.com/define/52/history-dictionary.html

www.bl.uk › Learning › Language & Literature

The Freedom to Read and to Express

2011-02-24T17:09:00.003-07:00

Starting on February 20, people from across Canada celebrated and thought about their intellectual freedom during the “Freedom to Read” Week.

Over the course of six days, participants tried and made a difference in their positions as free readers. The controversy of banning books was brought forth, as well as the restrictions made on children’s books in school.

It is the censorship of books that causes the ill effects in the lack of liberty of reading material. For all ages, the literary expression is limited due to the restrictions that the government places onto it. From the availability of products that are not culled out for revising or banning, the limitations given on readers are still severely low. The new tatted editions usually exclude so much as to create entirely new ones in themselves. Take, for instance, some of the lidded revisions of the new books, which have brought about no other options of refinement. The frequent responses made by sceptics have been that it is virtually impossible for everyone to completely understand and be sated by the issue that has arisen. They also note that eventually they may be cloyed with too much freedom. Everybody, though, has different opinions about what should or should not be censored.

The combination of these factors, along with the added weight of the comparisons made to censorships on television and the internet, has created a heated debate in the last decade that is unequalled. As if stepping back into the age where religious, sexual, racial and moral views were excluded in context up until the beginning of the last century, many have questioned whether it is too overblown. Some are even unsure as to who is doing the banning in the first place. Various organizations and branches of government have been the main supporters and actioners in the banning of books, thus limiting the freedom of both writers and readers.

Although the debates may be larger than ever, that does not mean that banning and censorship hasn’t happened before. In fact, it was more strict and prevalent in the past. Such classics as The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, Ulysses, To Kill a Mockingbird and Catcher in the Rye were very controversial novels when they were first published. It wasn’t until the end of the Second World War, when globalization took hold that readers could finally read most of whatever they wanted and writers could write more of what they wanted to express. However there is still a lack of total freedom.

One notable example of a controversial book in recent years is Lauren Myracle’s bestselling novel trilogy (ttyl, ttfn, and I8r) on a group of teenage girls, which is entirely written in instant messaging. Some parents in response have written angry e-mails, expressing their opinions about the novel’s coarse language, explicit sexuality, and supposedly unethical views: “I don’t want my kids to read this shit… what you’re putting out to kids today is so goddamn awful!” said one reviewer, “Are you a pedophile? Do you like to make money by misguiding youth?!” said another, “It’s the most fucked up piece of written dribble out there” said yet another anonymous reviewer. Despite the many negative reactions that the books have received, they have gotten mostly positive reviews by other readers. ‘This is one of the best books I’ve read in my life” said Cheryl Marcum, who defended the novels.

Concerning the controversies on children’s literature, Cheryl Marcum addresses that, "We believe parents have every right and responsibility to monitor what their children read.” Hence, parents should have the freedom to choose what their kids should read, “But they don't have the right to prevent other children from reading books, particularly national award-winning books." Even within the family, though, children should be able to have flexibility over what they read. "We are overprotecting our children," suggests Ms. Jones. "They have heard this language. They have probably said it themselves. It isn't dangerous for children to be able to confront unpleasant [or different] ideas. What better place to engage with ideas than in a school or in a library?"

In an age where everyone is supposed to have an equal freedom of speech, it is logical then that we must have the freedom to write. All age groups are affected by these censorships on books. Therefore everyone is restricted from the wide array of opinions and views that are offered through writing.

The “Freedom to Read” Week gives us a great opportunity to re-examine our liberty and allows us to make our own opinions on what we should and should not read. However, it does not give us complete control over what the whole nation should read. We must decide what is appropriate for ourselves. Through expressing ourselves, we can make a difference. With the freedom to read, we can gain the freedom to express, and the freedom to write…

Jeremy Pauze

Links:

www.pabbis.com

www.banned-books.com/bblista-i.html

www.bbc.co.uk/news/magazine-11417672

childrensbooks.about.com/cs/censorship/a/challenged.htm

www.freedomtoread.ca

www.ala.org/alaorg/oif/freeread.cfm

Texting and its Effects on the English Language and on Childs Learning

2011-02-15T10:08:00.005-07:00

In yr opn ds txtng affct a chldz lurng ov ltrcy skllz?

In today’s technology-driven society, the availability of instant messaging via cellphones and the internet has allowed youth to text in abbreviated styles of writing. This has even grown into its own language, which is known as “chatspeak”, or “texting”. This new form of communication has become so prominent that some educators worry that it may be damaging their literacy skills. Some even suspect that it may replace Standard English all together (as in George Orwell’s 1984, where Newspeak is used as abbreviated English). Others, though, say that it is allowing teenagers to contribute to the evolution of the English language.

Throughout the centuries, English has subtly changed, but the rise of texting has brought dramatic shifts to the language. In texting, the conventional orthographic structure is abandoned in favour of a looser, more unstable structure that is free of Capitalization, grammar, and punctuation. This allows teenagers to write and receive messages faster. It also gives them less time to think about what they are writing, and so they type as if in a hurry.

Sceptics of texting also note that it narrows the individuals’ availability of words to express what they want to say. It avoids the richness of the English language and instead shrinks their vocabulary. In school, for instance, many “texters” have trouble expressing themselves through writing.

Another negative impact of texting is its clash with Standard English in schools. Many teachers have seen the use of the texting language in essays and homework. They note that teenagers who text daily usually have more spelling and grammar mistakes in their work. Even such a simple word as “there” may be misspelled as “ther”.

On the othur hand, some people think that texting is a good thing 4 kids. They say that it gives them the chance 2 make ther own language. By putting the words short, it makes it easier and faster for them 2 rite. Sum resurchurs even say that txtng is hlpng ther wrtng skllz. Sinse thay tak out mst ov the vowels whn thay wrt, thse rsurchurs cnclud tht it also tks awy the dffcults of lurng the English Language.

Naturally, the English Language has evolved throughout the ages. Therefore, many interpret texting as just another form of English that has developed in the 21^stCentury. Texting could then be seen as just abbreviated English that is based in its mother language. Enable to understand and “decode” typed texting, they say, one must also understand the conventions of grammar and structure in Standard English. Hence, the orthographic and phonographic framework would be preserved, rather than abandoned. Texting could act as a code, and the key to unlocking this code would be the constituents that make up the English Language.

One notable code that is used in classic literature is in James Joyce’s Finnegans Wake. This novel is written using a combination of over 60 different languages, purposefully misspelled words, and almost completely abandons the orthographic structure. It is considered one of the most difficult of all novels to read, and at first glance, just seems to be a load of gibberish, without any characters, settings, or a plot. However, upon closer inspection, one can see an actual story, written in such a way as to purposefully mimic a dream. In an essence, this unusual form of writing expanded the expressive possibilities of literature and of documenting the human experience.

Could texting revolutionize English in a similar way? Almost certainly not, because that’s not its main purpose. It could though, some experts say, help the younger generation in learning their literacy skills.

I think texting is neither destroying nor contributing to the development of the English Language. Although it may be clashing with the traditional, neat structure of the language, I doubt that it will replace it all together. It is based solely in English, and enable to understand it one must also have firm knowledge of the origins of the mother dialect and its conventions. A French speaker, for instance, wouldn’t understand it. Therefore, I don’t think texting is demolishing the literacy skills of today’s youth. I do, however, think that it is interfering with them. Both Standard English and texting are clashing over the same grounds. Neither will rise above the other, in my opinion. Like the relationship between English and French, they must become separate and be used in different circumstances and places, without melding and forming an incoherent mess. I think that the traditional English should be used as the formal and general forms of writing (taught in school), while texting for chats and technological communications, where the structure is less important and is basically for just sending quick messages. This would, I think, preserve the richness of the English Language and maintain its usage while having texting as a separate entity for a quicker means of communication. May it be this way?

Jeremy Pauze
Katimivik Volunteer
Olds Municipal Library

Links:

www.newsweek.com/2008/08/01/the-death-of-english-lol.html

www.helium.com/.../1614824-will-text-messaging-destroy-the-english-language

www.edutopia.org/poll-text-messaging-writing-skills

news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/talking point/2815461.stm

www.telegraph.co.uk/.../Texting-is-making-English-a-foreign-language.html

news.sky.com/.../Texting-Children-Learning...Children.../201001315531673

news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/7910075.stm

ezinearticles.com › Home and Family

Writing Clubs @ your library

2010-08-27T15:38:00.000-06:00

Writing is usually solitary work. The lack of contact with other people can become discouraging. Most writing groups have local chapters with monthly meetings where members can socialize. Many also have created online groups where members can discuss topics between meetings. The common interest of the writing group may help people connect and provide the opportunity for friendship to develop beyond the group setting.

EDUCATION

Writers groups will often have speakers at their monthly meetings. Speakers talk about the writing process, the craft of writing, and the publishing industry among other writing related topics. Some groups also sponsor experts like law enforcement agents, forensic specialists, and doctors who can answer questions to help writers improve the factual elements in their writing projects. Many group meetings also include a segment for writers to talk about ongoing projects or ask for help with an issue they’ve encountered. These sessions can be helpful for all members of the group. All level of writers can generally learn something useful from writers groups meetings.

SHARED INFORMATION

Writers groups provide writers a safe place to ask questions and get answers. While writers are generally receptive to sharing information with other writers being a part of the same group makes it a little easier. Writers share opportunities they find with other members of the group. They direct one another to resources for research. They share their knowledge about conferences and other writing events. Most groups have a newsletter where members can share information with one another. Writers groups are great places for writers to learn what is happening in their writing community as well as in the writing world.

SHARED EXPERIENCE

Belonging to a writers group provides the opportunity to experience things together providing discussion topics and growth. People bond over shared experiences creating relationships that can prove beneficial. Group members will also share their past experiences expanding the knowledge base of the group. One member who attends an event may report to the group on the knowledge gained at the event. Members discuss their experiences with agents, editors, and other professionals helping one another gain a better understanding of the industry and the writer’s place in it.

PROMOTION

It’s easier to promote a book to a group if the author is already a member. Group members will support one another because they’ve shared experiences and connected through meetings and conversations. The group may provide writers who are new to speaking a place to practice giving talks about their books. Promotional materials can be passed out to group members. Members of the group will often come out to support authors at book signings. Promotion should never be the only reason for joining a group.

Writers who actively participate in a group are likely to benefit more from the group, make friends, and have a better experience overall. Writers should be careful that any group they join fit their needs and personality. Writers should contribute to the group for the benefit of the members and the group itself.

NOVEL IDEAS WRITING CLUB
Whether you are a seasoned writer or just getting started this is a great club for learning new writing techniques, attending workshops, sharing your ideas, and learning from each other. This group meets the second and fourth Thursday of each month with a workshop style session the first meeting of the month and a brainstorming and sharing session the last meeting of the month. With fees of less than $10.00 a month, there is a lot of knowledge and workshops to draw from. (Note to attend any of the sessions you must purchase the annual membership)

Fee: $70.00 (Annual) – prorated to month joined
Thursdays 6:00 – 8:00

September 9th – December 23rd (2nd and 4th Thursday of every month)

Workshops:
September 9th: Writing Short Stories and getting published
October 14th: Overcoming Writer’s Block
November 18th: Getting Started on your Novel or Next Novel
(Moved due to Remembrance Day)
December 9th: Journaling and the Writer’s Life

http://writernetworks.suite101.com/article.cfm/six_reasons_to_join_a_writers_group

INFORMATION PROVIDED BY THE ABOVE SITES

Mindful Living @ your library

2010-08-24T08:56:00.001-06:00

This quote by the Zen Budhhist monk Thich Nhat Hanh is a great summation of his world philosophy:

"People usually consider walking on water or in thin air a miracle. But I think the real miracle is not to walk either on water or in thin air,but to walk on earth. Every day we are engaged in a miracle which we don't even recognize: a blue sky, white clouds, green leaves, the black, curious eyes of a child -- our own two eyes. All is a miracle."

Starting this September the Olds Municipal Library will host a book study group taking a journey into mindful living. Participants will Take a yearlong journey into mindful living for the body, spirit, and planet. This study group will make a commitment to one year of mindful living based on concepts from the book Savor: Mindful Eating, Mindful Life by Thich N Hanh. Each month of this book study, participants will meet to discuss concepts they have read in a chapter of the books as well as listen to guest speakers on the monthly topic.

(The purchase of the book will be required for this study group. They can be purchased through the library at a discounted rate Savor: Mindful Eating, Mindful Life by Thich N Hanh $20.00 or by your own means)

Fee: Free (book Required)
Fridays 3:00 – 5:00

September 17th: What is Mindful Living?
October 15th: Mindful Eating – Weight Control
November 19th: Mindful Eating – Appreciating the Apple
December 17th: Mindful Eating – You are More than What you Eat
January 21st: Mindful Life – Living in the Present
February 18th: Mindful Life – Your Body on the Go
March 18th: Mindful Life – Rest and Relaxation
April 15th: Mindful World – You and your Environment
May 20th: Mindful World – The Ripple Effect
June 17th - August 19th: TBA

Cozy up with a good book.

2010-08-17T07:53:00.000-06:00

Picture it. The snow has blanketed the ground. Winter has returned in Olds. As you walk outside, you can see your breath wafting out of your mouth in billows as your warm breath hits the ice cold air. The crunch of snow under your feet is a familiar sound that you have known all your life. Growing up in Alberta, the cold is no stranger to you, but today you have a destination. Today you have a cozy, warm, inviting place to go. Hopping in your car you travel to the library.

The new library smell still hangs in the air as you make your way over to the sitting area beside the fireplace. There is a fire going already and you are welcomed by the group of individuals that you've had the chance to get to know over the past months. The book club is about to begin and you sit down with your cup of coffee and prepare for another exciting discussion.

Book clubs have been no stranger to libraries over the years. The Olds Municipal Library offers three book clubs for your enjoyment. Two of the book clubs are traditional book clubs. Members meet and discuss a book they've decided to read together. Clubs meet monthly and are organized and run by the members in the club. Also, this year we are able to add a virtual book club. With video conferencing facilities we will be connecting to other communities around the county to discuss in the same way a book that was chosen by the group. All book clubs are free of charge. All you need to do is read the book and show up ready for discussion.

To find out what books are being read next check out the library website. http://oml.prl.ab.ca/clubs.html

Book Club 1
Wednesdays 7:00 – 9:00
September 29th, October 27th, November 24th, and December 29th

Book Club 2
Fridays 10:00 – 12:00
September 24th, October 29th, November 26th

Book Club 3
(Virtual Book Club offered through Video Conference)
Wednesdays 7:30 – 8:30
September 15th (location Bell E-Learning Center)
December 8th (location Olds Municipal Library)

Programming Space @ your library

2010-08-12T15:34:00.000-06:00

Last week we and for the past two weeks we've talked to you about technology and how we will be integrating it into the new facility. This week however, I plan to take you into the Rabbit Hole. Anyone who has heard of Alice in Wonderland knows that Alice's imaginations takes her on a journey of learning and excitement. This is exactly what we are planning for our Program Room.

Like so many of the rooms in our facility we planned around people and what they would get out of it. Our mission is to provide access to current informational, educational, cultural, and recreational opportunities that enrich the lives of the members of our community. This room will help us achieve that goal. The first thing you'll notice about this room is that it's completely open to viewing with glass doors for easy viewing. Parents that bring their children to a program will be able to see their child's face light up as he or she learns and experiences new things. Our facility was designed to take advantage of natural light so we could conserve energy and try to achieve a more sustainable operation. The Program room is no exception. With lots of natural light students can have fun and learn in a comfortable, clean environment with enough room to move around.

However, children aren't the only ones that will get to benefit from this room. Since all our furniture is multipurpose our tables are adjustable for child or adult height making this room perfect for art classes, and other community classes that might be offered in the library. Having this room available opens up the variety of programs we can offer to you and we are always looking for suggestions.

Finally, this room is a community room. Partner organizations such as Mountain View Community Literacy, ParentLink, and the Boys and Girls Club of Olds will be able to use this room to extend their own learning opportunities to the community. Other organizations such as Horizon School, OES, and some private Kindergarten and Daycares will also benefit from this space.

As you see, it's not about four wall, a floor, and tables, to us the vision of the library is to be a place full of excitement, fun, and learning.

Lesley Winfield
Library Manager

Expansion News #3

2010-07-29T08:56:00.000-06:00

Another week has gone by and we have some new exciting features to share with you. Last week we talked about the Community Engagement Site (CES) in the new facility. Keeping with the theme of technology I'd like to introduce to you The DNA Room (Digital Networking Area). The DNA Room is made possible primarily through the hard work of the Technology Committee of the Olds Institute for Community and Regional Development. Many of you might know that hey are working on a Fiber to the Home project in the Town of Olds which will brink Fiber Optic Capabilities to every home and business in Town. For more information about the project and what they are doing click on the links above.

So what does the DNA room have to do with that? The vision of this room is to allow you to educate yourself on the technologies you might want to integrate into your home. This technology infused area will host a plethora of technologies that you might already have, may be thinking about having, or have never before seen, for your home. The goal is for you to learn and experience with a hands on experience.

Whether your passion is gaming, networking, music, or something else there is bound to be something in this room for you. If you don't see something you've always wanted to try it will be great to get your suggestions as we hope to keep this room up to date with the latest and greatest in technology. Imagine, Enjoy, Relax, and explore in this room of the library.

Lesley Winfield
Library Manager

Videogames in the Library. Educational Tool or a Waste of Time?

2010-07-21T10:20:00.005-06:00

Some may already know that there are video games available in the Olds Municipal Library. Not only do we offer World of Warcraft on the computers, we have a wii available for use by families, and in our new facility we hope to have another interactive game system available. I recently came across a video about a study reflecting the benefits of World of Warcraft.

I found this video very useful in explaining why it is important to offer gaming opportunities in the library. Many believe that as a library we should only be here to serve people doing "serious research", business, or job searches. These are all very important functions for a library to serve. However, many young people have a different way of learning, and I feel it's very important to engage people at the level they wish to be engaged, as well as the way they wish to be engaged.

I have befriended teens in my town because of a common interest in the game. These teens now frequent the library, come and talk to me about other life achievements such as a B on their English final as an example. I'd also like to mention many of them use the library for it's traditional use of checking out a book or two.

That being said, people tend to view video games as an evil vice that takes people away from the real world. This, for the most part, is not true in my opinion. In fact, World of Warcraft as an example, is much more interactive than sitting on a couch beside each other and staring at a television screen with no interaction at all. If we compare that to two members of a family or two friends playing a game together where they have to solve problems, help each other out, talk verbally and in chat windows, multi task, role play, etc. I think the video game is much more interactive and beneficial choice. It leads me to think about the commercials for having a Family Games Night. The only difference between a family game night around the a board is that instead of using game pieces video games can ad a component of technology to your family games night that can make it much more appealing to your teen, youth, or child.

In the case of World of Warcraft as an example, (though it's not the only beneficial game you can play as a group of friends of family), there is an extensive world created out of fantasy creatures, medieval towns, ancient professions, and lore. Many of these things were first thought of by great authors such as J.R.R Tolkien.

As the video above states there is usually an extensive use of strategy based on statistics and scientific or mathematical equations when approaching a battle. Forming just the right group to battle the monster you are about to face is crucial to the success of the encounter.

Leadership skills are fostered as guilds are formed, advisory councils are created, and a community of gamers comes together. The shy child in the classroom might very well be the leader online giving them confidence to possibly one day lead a group in real life.

Mentorship is also an important aspect of this game. Younger players meet older players and have the opportunity to learn from them about dealing with real life issues as they quest together in the game and friendships are formed. I'm not naive enough to think that every relationship is a positive one but for the most part people apply the same values they have in real life to their in game character, (avatar).

There is also learning that goes on with the economy of the game. There is a supply and demand system based on professions that people have to have. In order to succeed in game life you need to have a job. That job may be being a hero at the beginning but eventually you will need a profession.

There is a vast amount of reading involved in World of Warcraft. Granted, not everyone read every single quest but the storyline, lore, supporting novels, and in game reading that is involved is enough to support any child or adult in the quest for literacy. Subsequently you can actually pick up books in the game and read them on the screen. There are even libraries.

There is a vast online community offering tips, strategies, blogs, videos, and all forms of user created content to support the game. People are engaged enough in this game to create mods (mini programs that modify the game) and other content to help each other out. Some of these people would never even think about their passion being writing, yet they spend hours writing blogs, responding on forums, and thus practicing their communication skills. I once heard that a writer's apprenticeship is one million words. I think this is a great start.

The role playing aspect of the game can foster imagination and creativity. World of Warcraft is not just a game about battles and conquering the beast. Social holiday events, fishing tournaments, fashionable dresses and clothing, Non-player characters, and achievements are a few examples of how the game appeals to more than people who want to kill a monster or two. Even understanding the dynamic between the two waring factions who have come together to fight a common enemy shows that the battle for good far out ways the personal differences you might have with someone.

The social aspects of the game, teamwork, guild creation and camaraderie involved is also very significant. There are many quest that you must partner with three or more people in order to advance in the game. Many guilds use programs like ventrillo to speak to each other verbally about game or non game related topics. Guilds are groups of friends and many get to know each other so well that it may even spur real life friendships out of game.

In my opinion, there are huge benefits to World of Warcraft as a game, and a tool. The key to everything in life is balance. So why not try an online game for your next family games night?

Expansion News #2

2010-07-20T09:46:00.004-06:00

The expansion project has been underway for almost 9 months now and we have seen outstanding progress thanks to the diligent work of the team involved including our architect (Group2), our contractor (Pentagon Structures), Project Manager (Lorne Thompson), Library Board, Staff, and myself.

Since the project started in October 2009 we have excitingly seen the quick progress being made on the building. For those interested in a visual representation of the progress feel free to view our online album. http://picasaweb.google.ca/librarygoddess2/LibraryConstruction?feat=flashalbum#

We are excited with some of the new areas that will be integrated into the new facility. Each week we will talk about a new feature going into the facility to help get you excited about what is to come. Our possession date is on schedule for October 1st and we will be taking a month to move back and prepare the space for you to enjoy. We will be opening to the public Monday November 2nd during regular library hours.

Made possible through the support of the Lion's Club of Olds, The Olds Institute for Community and Regional Development and the Rural Alberta Development Fund, The Community Engagement Site (CES) will provide video conferencing, technology training, small virtual offices, and a connection to the rest of the world via the SuperNet. One of the new technologies we will be introducing to Olds is the E-Beam. Working like a smartboard the e-beam will make educational classes, video conferences, and business meetings run smooth and seamless. What a great opportunity to try out a new technology and use it to make your life just a little bit easier. We will also have two platforms represented in the CES including Apple and PC for those that want some variety in the computers that they use. As we have always offered, internet use at the library is free of charge with the option to bring down your laptop and take advantage of our free WiFi network. Video Conferencing options for medium and small groups are available as well as just a being a place to meet and exchange ideas among professionals, friends, and community members. The CES will also be available for bookings with special non profit rates as well.

Look for more information to come!
Lesley Winfield
Library Manager

Expansion News #1

2010-07-20T09:45:00.000-06:00

Libraries are no longer only repositories for books and havens for those seeking the quiet pursuit of knowledge. On any give day, the Olds Library is humming with activity. Children are learning how to become Eco Detectives. New Canadians are selecting progressive readers, beginner English books written for adult learners. Artists are exchanging their Art Spark Trading Cards, mini masterpieces they have created. Truckers are checking out best sellers on audiotape to help pass the kilometers. Teens are engrossed in computer aided dialogues with people across the world. As Olds’ population has expanded and growth continues, increasing the number of users and diversity of their needs, the community is ready for a new generation library.

The Library Expansion Project will increase the current building to 9,000 square feet, allowing necessary space for at least the next 15 years of operation. Major funding for the project is generously provided by the Town of Olds, Government of Canada’s Building Canada Fund, and Government of Alberta’s Major Community Facilities Fund. The Olds Lions Club is a Room Sponsor and many donations continue to be made by the community through the Bricks for Books program. The project is expected to be completed in October, 2010. In the meantime, temporary library operations are underway in the former SAAN store downtown.

This new generation library will serve as a community showcase for leading edge digital equipment for home and communication applications through a partnership with the provincial Community Engagement Site Program and Community Connections, a project of the Olds Institute – Technology Committee.

A forward thinking building in function needs to be as forward thinking in design. The expansion project’s architecture and engineering firm, Group 2, are leaders in sustainable design. Environmentally responsible features include: rainwater collection, passive sunlight optimization, energy efficient heating and water efficient plumbing. The building material, furniture and landscaping were selected for green features including durability, local manufacturing and closed loop recycling.

Contractor Chosen

2009-10-16T14:42:00.000-06:00

A contractor was officially awarded the bid at the September 28^th council meeting. The construction is scheduled to begin as soon as possible so you may see some equipment and modular being moved in very shortly. We are happy to report that the project is underway. The construction is scheduled to take approximately one year with a move in date of October 2010. Though the building funding is in we are still looking for donations for the furniture inside the building. If you would like to contribute please feel free to participate in our bricks for books program.

Library Looking for Volunteers to Move the Library

2009-07-17T11:28:00.000-06:00

The library has secured a temporary location while the building renovation is happening. We will be in need of volunteers during that time to help with heavy and light lifting. If you are available and willing to help with any of the below shift please email me at lwinfield@libs.prl.ab.ca or call the library at 403-556-6460

Monday 9:00 – 5:00
Tuesday 8:00 – 12:00 and/or 1:00 – 5:00
Wednesday 8:00 – 12:00 and/or 1:00 – 5:00
Thursday 9:00 – 5:00

Finding good information on the Web

2008-12-09T08:37:00.002-07:00

We all know that not all information is created equal: some is more accurate, some less. But how can you tell the difference? Helping people find the right information is one of the main goals of the library profession; there are many different lists, mnemonics, and theories to help you evaluate information. Here are a few basic guidelines:

Who wrote the information?

Is it from an organization or an individual?
Are credentials given for the author – what authority do they have on the subject?
If it is in print, who published it?
If it is online, is there any way to contact the author?
If it is online, what is included in the URL?

On university sites, a ~ in the address means that it is a professor or student’s personal site and not official university material.
A .com was originally for commercial sites, .org for non-profit organizations.
Government sites are .gc.ca for Canada and .gov.ab.ca for Alberta.

Why was it written?

Is there a bias towards one point of view in the information?
Is the author trying to sell something? Are advertisements included in the text?
Is the author trying to persuade, educate, or entertain you?

What was written?

Does the information go in-depth into a narrow topic or is it a broad overview?
What audience does it seem to be aimed at?
Is it fact, opinion, or propaganda?
Does the information match the official authority on the topic? For example, if you’re looking for tax information, the Canada Revenue Agency would be the authority on the subject. Anything that contradicts the CRA is not useful.

Where did the author get the information?

Are sources cited?
Can you confirm the accuracy of the sources?
When was it written?
Is the information current?
Have there been updates (to the page if it’s online, or new editions of print materials)?

One of the most important ways to evaluate information is to develop background knowledge on the topic. Try not to rely on one source, but look at several different authors’ work. That way you see the common ground and can be a better judge of what is fact or opinion.

Some other guides to evaluating information:
http://lib.berkeley.edu/TeachingLib/Guides/Internet/Evaluate.html
http://www.lib.purdue.edu/ugrl/staff/sharkey/interneteval/index.html
http://www.library.cornell.edu/newhelp/res_strategy/evaluating/evaluate.html

(This information was provided by Parkland Regional Library Consultants.)

Christmas Around the World

2008-12-02T16:15:00.002-07:00

Christmas is upon us once again and it brings back so many fond memories of Christmas past. I especially love giving Christmas gifts to everyone around me. The look of happiness on their face when they open up something I bought or made while thinking fondly of them makes my heart warm. Christmas reminds me of family, friends, and love.

At the library, we are celebrating Christmas in a very special way. Christmas Around the World hosted at the Olds Municipal Library will give the community a taste of what holidays are celebrated in other countries of the World. Central Alberta Refugee Effort has partnered with us to bring this special event.

Presentations will be made at 10:00 and again at 2:00. Presentations last 2 hours and include singing, dancing, storytelling and much much more! Come and find out what you're missing from around the world! This event is free.

What does Obama think about Libraries

2008-11-06T16:18:00.002-07:00

"Literacy and Education in a 21st-Century Economy"
Remarks as Prepared for Delivery
Saturday, June 25th, 2005

Thank you. It's an honor to be here with the hundreds of dedicated librarians who make up the American Library Association. Before we begin, I'd like to say a special hello to ALA member Nancy Gibbs, who is the mother of my communications director, Robert Gibbs. Believe me, I have no idea how the biggest mouth in our office came from a family of two librarians, but we're proud to have him on board and I'm sure you are too.

I'd also like to give a shout-out to my librarians from the Punahou School in Hawaii - Molly Lyman, Joan Kaaua, and Lillian Hiratani. I'd like to offer them an apology too, for all those times I couldn't keep myself out of trouble and ended up sitting in their library on a timeout, trying to cause even more trouble there. Sorry ladies.

It is a pleasure to address you today because of what libraries represent. More than a building that houses books and data, the library has always been a window to a larger world - a place where we've always come to discover big ideas and profound concepts that help move the American story forward.

And at a time when truth and science are constantly being challenged by political agendas and ideologies; a time where so many refuse to teach evolution in our schools, where fake science is used to beat back attempts to curb global warming or fund life-saving research; libraries remind us that truth isn't about who yells the loudest, but who has the right information. Because even as we're the most religious of people, America's innovative genius has always been preserved because we also have a deep faith in facts.

And so the moment we persuade a child, any child, to cross that threshold into a library, we've changed their lives forever, and for the better. This is an enormous force for good.

So I'm here to gratefully acknowledge the importance of libraries and the work you do. I also want to work with you to insure that libraries continue to be sanctuaries for learning, where we are free to read and consider what we please, without the fear of Big Brother peering menacingly over our shoulders.

Now, some of you might have heard about this speech I gave at the Democratic Convention last summer. It ended up making some news here and there, and one of the lines that people seem to remember was when I said that "We don't like federal agents poking around our libraries in the Red States."

What many people don't remember is that for years, librarians are the ones who've been on the frontlines of this fight for privacy and freedom. There have always been dark times in our history where America has strayed from the ideals that make us a great nation. But the question has always been, can we overcome? And you have always been a group of Americans who have answered a resounding "yes" to that question.

When political groups try to censor great works of literature, you're the ones putting Huck Finn and Catcher in the Rye back on the shelves, making sure that our right to free thought and free information is protected. And ever since we've had to worry about our own government looking over our shoulders in the library, you've been there to stand up and speak out on privacy issues. You're full-time defenders of the most fundamental American liberties, and for that, you deserve America's deepest gratitude.

You also deserve our protection. That's why I've been working with Republicans and Democrats to make sure we have a Patriot Act that helps us track down terrorists without trampling on our civil liberties. This is an issue that Washington always tries to make "either-or." Either we protect our people from terror or we protect our most cherished principles. But this kind of choice asks too little of us and assumes too little about America. We can harness new technologies and a new toughness to find terrorists before they strike while still protecting the very freedoms we're fighting for in the first place.

I know that some of you here have been subject to FBI or other law enforcement orders asking for reading records. And so I hope we can pass a provision like the House of Representatives did that would require federal agents to get these kinds of search warrants from a real judge in a real court, just like everyone else does. In the Senate, the bipartisan bill that we're working on, known as the SAFE Act, will prevent the federal government from freely rifling through emails and library records without first obtaining such a warrant. Giving law enforcement the tools they need to investigate suspicious activity is one thing; but doing it without the approval of our judicial system seriously jeopardizes the rights of all Americans and the ideals America stands for.

Now, in addition to the line about federal agents poking around in our libraries, there was also another line in the convention speech that received a lot of attention - a line I'd like to talk more about today. At one point in the speech, I mentioned that the people I've met all across Illinois know that government can't solve all their problems. They know that, quote, "...parents have to parent, that children can't achieve unless we raise their expectations and turn off the television sets and eradicate the slander that says a black youth with a book is acting white."

I included this line in the speech because I believe that we have a serious challenge to meet. I believe that if we want to give our children the best possible chance in life; if we want to open doors of opportunity while they're young and teach them the skills they'll need to succeed later on, then one of our greatest responsibilities as citizens, as educators, and as parents is to ensure that every American child can read and read well.

This isn't just another education debate where the answer lies somewhere between more money and less bureaucracy. It's a responsibility that begins at home - one that we need to take on before our kids ever step foot in a classroom; one that we need to carry through well into their teenage years.

That's because literacy is the most basic currency of the knowledge economy we're living in today. Only a few generations ago, it was okay to enter the workforce as a high school dropout who could only read at a third-grade level. Whether it was on a farm or in a factory, you could still hope to find a job that would allow you to pay the bills and raise your family.

But that economy is long gone. As revolutions in technology and communication began breaking down barriers between countries and connecting people all over the world, new jobs and industries that require more skill and knowledge have come to dominate the economy. Whether it's software design or computer engineering or financial analysis, corporations can locate these jobs anywhere there's an internet connection. And so as countries like China and India continue to modernize their economies and educate their children longer and better, the competition American workers face will grow more intense; the necessary skills more demanding.

These new jobs are about what you know and how fast you can learn what you don't know. They require innovative thinking, detailed comprehension, and superior communication.

But before our children can even walk into an interview for one of these jobs; before they can ever fill out an application or earn the required college degree; they have to be able to pick up a book, read it, and understand it. Nothing is more basic; no ability more fundamental.

Reading is the gateway skill that makes all other learning possible, from complex word problems and the meaning of our history to scientific discovery and technological proficiency. In a knowledge economy where this kind of learning is necessary for survival, how can we send our kids out into the world if they're only reading at a fourth grade level?

I don't know, but we do. Day after day, year after year.

Right now, one out of every five adults in the United States can't read a simple story to their child. During the last twenty years or so, over ten million Americans reached the 12th grade without having learned to read at a basic level.

But these literacy problems start far before high school. In 2000, only 32% of all fourth graders tested as reading proficient. And the story gets worse when you take race and income into consideration. Children from low-income families score 27 points below the average reading level, while students from wealthy families score fifteen points above the average. And while only one in twelve white seventeen-year-olds has the ability to pick up the newspaper and understand the science section, for Hispanics the number jumps to one in fifty; for African Americans it's one in one hundred.

In this new economy, teaching our kids just enough so that they can get through Dick and Jane isn't going to cut it. Over the last ten years, the average literacy required for all American occupations is projected to rise by 14%. It's not enough just to recognize the words on the page anymore - the kind of literacy necessary for 21st century employment requires detailed understanding and complex comprehension. But too many kids simply aren't learning at that level.

And yet, every year we pass more of these kids through school or watch as more dropout. These kids who will pour through the Help Wanted section and cross off job and after job that requires skills they just don't have. And others who will have to take that Help Wanted section, walk it over to someone else, and find the courage to ask, "Will you read this for me?"

We have to change our whole mindset in this country. We're living in a 21st century knowledge economy, but our schools, our homes, and our culture are still based around 20th century expectations. It might seem like we're doing kids a favor by teaching them just enough to count change and read a food label, but in this economy, it's doing them a huge disservice. Instead, we need to start setting high standards and inspirational examples for our children to follow. While there's plenty that can be done to improve our schools and reform education in America, this isn't just an issue where we can turn to the government and ask for help. Reading has to begin at home.

We know that children who start Kindergarten with an awareness of letters and basic language sounds become better readers and face fewer challenges in the years ahead. We also know that the more reading material kids are exposed to at home, the better they score on reading tests throughout their lives. So we need to make investments in family literacy programs and early childhood education so that kids aren't left behind before they even go to school. And we need to get books in our kids' hands early and often.

I know that this is often easier said than done. Parents today still have the toughest job in the world - and no one ever thanks you enough for doing it. You're working longer and harder than ever, juggling job and family responsibilities, and trying to be everywhere at once. When you're home, you might try to get your kids to read, but you're competing with the other byproducts of the technological revolution: video games and DVDs that they just have to have; TVs in every room of the household. Children eight to eighteen now spend three hours a day watching TV, while they only spend 43 minutes reading.

Our kids aren't just seeing these temptations at home - they're everywhere. Whether it's their friends or the people they see on TV or a general culture that glorifies anti-intellectualism, it's too easy for kids today to put down a book and turn their attention elsewhere. And it's too easy for the rest of us to make excuses for it - pretending that putting a baby in front of a DVD is educational, letting a twelve-year-old skip reading as long as he's playing good video games, or substituting dinner in front of the TV for family conversation.

We know that's not what our kids need. We know that's not what's best for them. And so as parents, we need to find the time and the energy to step in and find ways to help our kids love reading. We can read to them, talk to them about what they're reading and make time for this by turning off the TV ourselves.

Libraries can help parents with this. Knowing the constraints we face from busy schedules and a TV culture, we need to think outside the box here - to dream big like we always have in America. Right now, children come home from their first doctor's appointment with an extra bottle of formula. But imagine if they came home with their first library card or their first copy of Goodnight Moon?

What if it was as easy to get a book as it is to rent a DVD or pick up McDonalds? What if instead of a toy in every Happy Meal, there was a book? What if there were portable libraries that rolled through parks and playgrounds like ice cream trucks? Or kiosks in stores where you could borrow books? What if during the summer, when kids often lose much of the reading progress they've made during the year, every child had a list of books they had to read and talk about and an invitation to a summer reading club at the local library?

Libraries have a special role to play in our knowledge economy. Your institution has been and should be the place where parents and kids come to read together and learn together. We should take our kids here more, and we should make sure politicians aren't closing libraries down because they had to spend a few extra bucks on tax cuts instead.

Each of you has a role here too. You can get more kids to walk through your doors by building on the ideas so many of you are already pursuing - book clubs and contests, homework help and advertising your services throughout the community.
In the years ahead, this is our challenge - and this must be our responsibility.

As a librarian or as a parent, every one of you here today can probably remember the look on a child's face after finishing a first book. They turn that last page and stare up at you with those wide eyes, and in that look you find such a sense of accomplishment and pride; of great potential and so much possibility.

And in that moment, there's nothing we want more than to nurture that hope; to make all those possibilities and all those opportunities real for our children; to have the ability to answer the question, "What can I be when I grow up?" with "Anything you want - anything you can dream of."

It's a hope that's as old as the American story itself. From the moment the first immigrants arrived on these shores, generations of parents have worked hard and sacrificed whatever is necessary so that their children could have the same chances they had; or the chances they never had. Because while we could never ensure that our children would be rich or successful; while we could never be positive that they would do better than their parents, America is about making it possible to give them the chance. To give every child the opportunity to try.

Education is still the foundation of this opportunity. And the most basic building block that holds that foundation together is still reading. At the dawn of the 21st century, in a world where knowledge truly is power and literacy is the skill that unlocks the gates of opportunity and success, we all have a responsibility as parents and librarians, educators and citizens, to instill in our children a love of reading so that we can give them the chance to fulfill their dreams. Thank you.

Wrath of the Lich King release Party

2008-11-04T12:44:00.007-07:00

Celebrate the release of the new World of Warcraft release at your local library. During this event we will be completing to reach in game goals for rewards. Partnering with other libraries to compete against teams around Alberta.

Each location will have teams of at least 5 people created. All participants will join the game and create a new character. The goal will be to get everyone in your team to level 17 and complete and instance then find the event coordinator somewhere in Azeroth before the other teams. If your team completes the task first they will receive 200 game gold and prizes at your local level.

CURRENT PARTNERS:

Olds Municipal Library
Stettler Municipal Library

If you know of other locations where YOU play that may want to join with a team that evening send the a message to Lesley Winfield and we can work out the details.

1. You do not need a library card or a World of Warcraft Account to participate

2. You must RSVP for this event as there are only a limited number of spots on public access stations. [call 403-556-6460 or email oml2@libs.prl.ab.ca]

3. If you have your own laptop you are free to bring it and log into our network via our wireless connection

4. Food, Beverages, and prizes provided (Win a free copy of Wrath of the Lich King)

FEEL FREE TO INVITE ANYONE YOU KNOW TO THIS EVENT

Fun Money Casino: Fund Raising Event

2008-10-31T13:31:00.003-07:00

We are having a fund raiser. Buy your tickets now! Check out our facebook page for full information or call the library at 556-6460

Check out our Facebook page

When: Saturday November 8, 2008
Where: Olds Legion
Time: 8:00 - 11:30 (Casino floor opens at 8:30)

Ticket Price: $30.00 for one or $50.00 for two

Brodband in Alberta

2008-10-31T11:41:00.007-07:00

I recently had the opportunity to attend the Communities Without Boundaries Video Conference in Olds. The Conference was set up between 21 different locations in Alberta. http://communitieswithoutboundaries.ca/ Among the many different topics discussed, it was apparent that connecting with each other via video conference and other brodband applications is the wave of the future. This is a bit of an interesting topic for me because growing up I always thought we would be past where we are at right now in our evolution of these technologies. However, with the development of the SuperNet project in Alberta and the money being invested province wide toward applications of this technology, the ideas that were seeded years ago when I was in Junior High and High School are now being realized on a larger scale.

It is apparent to me that the technologies being experimented and funded in Alberta today will greatly increase the quality of life for Albertans in many different ways. Barriers that used to mean a trip to the city, expensive tuition fees, extra time for travel, the inability to access information, specialists, and other resources are now being eliminated. There are hundreds of applications in Alberta being developed currently that will help enhance the quality of life for Albertans using Broadband technologies.

Throughout the day we heard speakers from around the province talk about topics related to education, health care, economic activities, and quality of life. It was evident that the potential for decreased costs, increased service, and equality are growing as fast as ideas can be produced.

Did you know that doctors are now networked completely through the SuperNet to offer consultations, analysis of test results, and sharing patient information? Did you know that many of our Alberta schools and post secondary institutions have been using video conferencing to deliver courses for over 10 years now? Schools have been able to connect with students who are in the hospital and unable to attend classes. Business owners are able to access courses with experts around the province over their lunch break in communities no more than 1 hour away. Libraries have been able to connect to authors giving talks in other communities. Many businesses rely on internet to deliver their business, connect with suppliers, and contact customers. One of my favorite quotes from the day was "without brodband high speed access doing business is like traveling 3 miles an hour down the information highway".

What is offered at your local library? Highspeed access to the SuperNet free of charge to all members of the community, full access and privileges to computer stations to conduct business and school projects, full access to stations to use for person networking (email, facebook, etc.), Private Skype station for users to connect to people around the world, and many online database resources free of charge to you with your library membership. "I shouldn't matter where our kids grow up in the province, we should have access to all the resources in the world." as Punch Jackson pointed out in his presentation "Think of what you can invent and what you can prevent just by having a library card".

Harry Potter Book Release Party

2007-07-21T19:09:00.000-06:00

Harry Potter fans gathered at the Olds Municipal Library on Friday evening to celebrate the final book in the long awaited series. Wizards, witches, and Muggles alike showed up side by side at the library starting at 9:00 pm on the night of the 20^th. The seventh book, being released at midnight on the 21^st was the reason for the event. Participants enjoyed many activities throughout the night including Potions Class, Transfiguration Class, and even making sorting hats. There was also wizards chess and several other activity centers set up in the library for the evening. No one’s evening was complete without a visit to the Leaky Cauldron for a glass of Butter Beer, a Licorice Wand, or a Cockroach Crusties. The night began coming to a head when wizards and Muggles took part in a duel of wit with the Harry Potter trivia challenge, but the night was capped off with the long awaited arrival of the 7^th book in the series. Librarian Lesley Winfield read from the book starting at the stroke of midnight. There were over 50 people in attendance of the event ranging in age from 8 – 48 proving that Harry Potter is a fit for any age. The Harry Potter book is available at your local library. If you would like to put your name on the borrowing list feel free to contact them at 556-6460.

Municipal Sustainability

2007-07-16T09:26:00.000-06:00

A lot of coverage has been given in our society on the idea of sustainability. It is an issue that affects us in the present and will decide the outcome of our future including our children and our children's children. The community of Olds is not lost to this issue. In fact the Town of Olds has partnered with the Olds Institute for Community Living and AUMA to create a municipal sustainability plan for our community. The committee has been hard at work collecting input from the citizens of Olds that will be vital to the creation and implementation of the plan. With a deadline of February for the plan the committee has a long road ahead of them analyzing data and putting a workable plan in place.

I have been honored with a spot on this committee, and am looking forward to the ways in which the library will be able to partner with the community to make the plan a success. One of the first ways we will be partnering with the committee will be in helping to provide the Natural Step Training to the community. The Town of Olds has become a pilot location for the sustainability training module. (More information about the program can be obtained at http://www.naturalstep.ca). This 1 hour module will soon be available at the Olds Municipal Library.

Likewise, we will be setting aside some funding to provide sustainability resources to our community. This will include books for adults, juniors, and children as well as magazines and DVDs that address the current issues in the world and in the country. We are very excited about the potential that is here in our community and can't wait to get started.

Lost Worlds: Summer Reading @ your library

2007-05-30T09:32:00.000-06:00

Continuing reading over the summer is very important for children of all ages. I has been shown that children who read throughout the summer improve their literacy at higher levels than children who do not. Participation in Summer Reading Programs has be proven to help children maintain these skills because throughout the summer they are encouraged to read for fun and enjoyment. To help make your child’s experience with summer reading fun you can:

« Help your child set realistic reading goals

« Establish a regular time for reading for all members of the family

« Show genuine interest in the stories or programs your child discovers during the summer

« Appreciate all books the child selects, even the ones that look ‘too easy’

« Read to your child

« Be a reader yourself

« Help your child attend special programs throughout the summer

‘Lost Worlds’ is the theme for the summer reading program at the public library this summer and we are really excited. The Summer Reading Program will run from July - August and is offered to children ages 3-12. The program runs for seven weeks, but registration is on a weekly basis so children can attend the sessions that work with the families summer schedule. Classes are divided by age to ensure activities are stimulating and developmentally appropriate. Each age group will attend three times a week for an hour each class with special event for all participants once a week. As in past years we will have an incentive program that is funded by corporate sponsors around the area. BP Canada has generously donated $750.00 to help run the summer program this year.

Registration begins June 1st and we encourage people to come in and sign up.

Utopian Library Service

2007-05-07T17:10:00.000-06:00

This year marks the 100^th anniversary of the library act in Alberta and to get a better idea of where libraries should go in the future Libraries, Communities, and Voluntary are talking to librarians, patrons, regional managers, and boards to come up with the Utopian view of libraries for the next 10 years.

In pondering what library services might and or should look like in the future I came to several conclusions. Libraries are a dynamic and vibrant place in the community. Not only have many libraries become a key connection point to services in the community, but education, information and recreation have ranked high on their list for many years. I believe there are three main areas that should be focused on when coming up with the utopian view of libraries. These include access, technology, education and cooperation.

Access to all should be one of the key focuses when discussing the future of library service. Some ideas to increase access to Albertans include

Immigrants continue to enter our communities to help fill the gaps in our labor markets. Libraries can be a key contact point for these users to access educational opportunities such as ESL programs and to connect with members of the community so as to not feel so segregated.
Other minority groups such as persons with disabilities, developmental and physical, should have easy, equal access to all services the library provides. When thinking about access for people libraries also need to think about the size of their libraries.
Enough space to create partnership opportunities with organizations in the community, provide courses, have teleconferencing and education centers, run children’s programs, and even just a simple place for people to get away from the stresses of every day life and relax.
Libraries of the future need to pay particular attention to breaking down barriers. One barrier to people in Alberta has been the need to pay library memberships. Libraries of the future should provide free library memberships to everyone.
The final concept that should be explored in regards to access is access to staff. Libraries of the future need to have enough staff to provide quality service to it’s patrons. Staff should be able to roam the library stacks, talk to patrons and help answer questions. Providing enough staff will go a long way in helping this vision become a reality.

The second focus that I would like to explore is technology. Libraries have already come a long way in the integration of technologies. However there are still several things libraries MUST do in order to provide the best service possible for Albertans.

One central integrated library system which allows people to not only borrow books from any location in Alberta but place requests as well as eliminate limits placed on borrowing privileges as some TAL libraries have. This would mean consistent, easy, access to any library in Alberta with one barcode and one set of rules.
User friendly catalogues need to be created. A shift toward a more “Amazon” friendly type catalogue that allows for book suggestions, spelling mistakes, and subject suggestions.
The utilization of social software such as Facebook, msn, and other software that links people socially to help provide services to patrons. Online book clubs, communities, reference questions. Perhaps the new buzz slogan that should be adopted by Albertans is “Instead of Googleing it… Library it!”

The third and final focus I would like to explore is cooperation and education. Though at times these are completely different issues for the most part in libraries they bare a similar focus. Might I suggest some of the following:

School, academic, and public libraries all under the same government umbrella. Separate buildings with one main focus helping libraries in general, but particularly school libraries not be forgotten when funding is discussed.
Better partnerships with health organizations, learning organizations, government organizations, and other public service organizations to provide important information to the community in one central location.
Ongoing funding partnerships with municipal and provincial governments to provide permanent, sustainable funding so library boards and managers could spend less time on paper work and more time on providing service to the community.
Better communication between government organizations and libraries so that Albertans can find relevant and up to date political information and services.
Highly trained staff with consistent training opportunities for rural libraries that match opportunities with urban centers.
Cooperation between libraries to have a joint collection development strategy so that all Albertans can have better access to relevant information that does not duplicate to such a great extent allowing smaller libraries to provide equivilant materials as larger libraries.

What it all comes down to is three simple words. When applied to each of these services, in each of these focuses. Libraries and library services should be efficient, economical, and equal.

Coming back to the library?

2007-04-17T11:28:00.000-06:00

Why not make a visit to your local library today? Many people still view libraries as stagnant, quiet, and sometimes forbidden places to be. However, a closer look at libraries today shows that libraries are no longer what they are perceived to be. Full of technology, programs, training, databases, and a wide variety of materials they are quickly becoming the central hub in the community for many municipalities.

In Olds, we have seen an increase in the number of people entering the library from 16000 people per year in 2004 to about 50000 people through our doors in 2006. Many people coming into the library for the first time in years are surprised to hear about the advances that have been made in library service.

Did you know, for example, that the Olds Municipal Library offers home delivery of books to anyone with a valid library membership? Did you know that the library has a music, DVD, Video, and Audio Book collection? The Olds Library also has a wide variety of things to offer everyone including:

After School Programs
Volunteer Opportunities
Over 60 Magazine and Newspapers
Special Events
Music, DVDs, Videos, and Audio Books
Over 37 000 items to choose from
Home Delivery Service
Families In Need
Program/ Healthy
Families Program
Ask a Question!
Computer Training
Story Hour
Alberta Library (TAL) Card participant :Use any Library in Alberta
Member of Parkland Regional Library
Access over 40 other public libraries at one click
Get books from all over Canada
Multilingual Books
Book delivery service (free)
Free Internet and WiFi
Games Computer
Room Rentals

During the next few months the library will be holding a promotion to bring people back to the library. All new members and renewals will receive an extra three months of service, absolutely free. To take advantage of this promotion members of Olds need only to watch their water bills. A coupon will be available with information about the promotion.

Town approves $1 000 000 funding

2007-04-02T10:42:00.000-06:00

At the regular council meeting on Monday March 12, 2007, The Town of Olds passed the following motion:

"that Council approve a 1 million dollar capital contribution, for the Olds Library expansion project as presented to Council, with funds to be borrowed as required, from the Alberta capital Finance Authority."

The motion was carried unanimously. The Town of Olds council has shown great vision for the community by acknowledging the need for expanded cultural and educational facilities in Olds. The building project, worth 2.5 million dollars as of October 2005, is quickly moving forward now. The project concept proposal can be viewed at the following link; http://oml.prl.ab.ca/new/Concept%20Design%20Report.pdf. The library board has actively been keeping open communication with town administration and elected officials from the community and province to secure the rest of the funding needed for the project.

The Town of Olds Council is committed to completing the project as quickly as possible so the inflations costs do not hinder the completion of the project. The Library Board has moved forward in securing a part time fundraising coordinator to organize community events, liaison between service clubs, fundraising committee, and friends of the library as well as local and regional business partners.

The first initiative the Library Board has started is the "Bricks for Books" program. This program is designed to give community, county, and business members the opportunity to sponsor a brick ($100), cornerstone ($500), or foundation stone ($1000). Bricks can be purchased in memory or honour of a loved one, as a gift for the person who has everything, or as recognition of a family name or business name. Brochures and more information can be obtained by clicking on the following link; http://oml.prl.ab.ca/new/bricksforbooks.pdf. We are embarking on a very positive journey in the community of Olds with many building projects and initiatives, (cultural, business, and education related), making Olds an inviting and prosperous place to live.

Immigration and Welcoming Communities

2007-03-30T08:26:00.000-07:00

Everyone knows that Alberta's job market is in crisis. Too few workers create added stress for employers, employees and consumers. You can't go a block without seeing a help wanted sign in the window of a shop or on a billboard. Likewise, immigration has quickly become a hot topic in Canada over the past months. Employers from many provinces are actively recruiting citizens from other countries to fill in the gaps where Canadians cannot. With birthrates decreasing and the impending retirement of baby boomers quickly approaching officials estimate a shortage of 100,000 workers by the year 2010.

Yesterday, I attended a very informative workshop organized by the Central Alberta Economipc Partnership. http://centralalberta.ab.ca This workshop, called Welcoming Communities, focused on the need for communities to be welcoming to new immigrants. It's not enough to say, "come to the land of opprotunity." Communities need to have support in place for immigrants that will allow them to function in our society and integrate into our culture while continuing to celebrate thier own. Throughout the day, attendants of the workshop heard many of the struggles faced by immigrants when coming to our communities. Some of these struggles included...

1. Unable to find housing and transportation
2. Language barriers, (being thought of as less intelligent as a result)
3. Cultural differences
4. Lack of support for spouses
5. Lack of support for children in the K-12 system
6. Loneliness due to lack of family, friends, and other people from thier culture
7. Racism
8. Lack of recognition of credentials

Communities were encouraged to take up the cause and include in their planning ways to ensure that immigrants can succeed when they arrive in Canada. What does that mean for Libraries? Libraries are usually a central place to go for newcomers. They are public, visible, and have a wide variety of information. Immigrants are looking for resources, training, friendship, and connections to other support agencies. As librarians, we need to be aware of the new immigrants in our communities and work toward helping them succeed. This can be done through ESL programs and tutoring, accelerated reader collections, free internet access and computer training, and a having a list of resources and support groups available. Many libraries are already working toward these goals.

However, may I be so bold as to suggest that libraries need to take a more active role. Many smaller libraries find it difficult to try and provide services for thier patrons, especially if there are only a handful of members in the community. In Olds, we have a number of new immigrants. This workshop has inspired me to activley seek members who need support. Contacting local businesses in town to create programs designed to help their employees. Why not offer volunteer tutors, purchase more ESL materials, and provide sponsored membership programs? Why not get immigrants actively involved in the community? Allow them to use thier strengths and teach other about their culture? For many the local library will be the portal to the rest of the community, province and coutry so our understanding and patients will go along way to making the experience more positive. Smile... it's contagious!

About This Blog

2007-03-30T07:45:00.000-07:00

When I was first deciding to start a blog I had to consider the focus and scope of the information I would be providing to viewers. There have been a lot of things happening in the library world, the province of Alberta, the community of Olds, and the Olds Municipal Library. Not only did I wish to share information about our services and programs, I wanted people to have an idea about what is going on in our community and province and how it affects library services for them. This Blog is meant to be light and fun. I encourage people to leave comments, and hope you will enjoy reading it on a regular basis.