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Tag: libraries

The Library as a Makerspace

The Library as a Makerspace

Libraries are no longer simply a holding area for books, they are community hubs. People gather at the library to share ideas and enrich their lives. Computers and internet are now standard in libraries and are often in demand. Unemployed individuals can come to the library and apply for jobs. Kids can do their homework (or play games) at the library. But did you know that libraries are now becoming much more than books, computers and internet? Libraries are becoming…

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Celebrate Book Lovers Day!

Celebrate Book Lovers Day!

Today, August 9, is said to be Book Lovers Day. I can’t find out much about the origins or history of this “holiday,” but it’s all over the web, so it must be true, right?! ☺ Also, I heard it on my local NPR station this morning. I thought I’d celebrate the occasion by posting this picture I took in the Ft. Vancouver High School Library Media Center a while back. The picture features one of my favorite book quotes,…

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Library Memories

Library Memories

Libraries are the setting for many good memories, and over the next few weeks, Washington State Library’s Institutional Library Services staff would like to share a few of their memories about libraries.  Some of them will date back to childhood, others will tell stories of their own children or grandchildren, but all of them show the impact libraries have had on our lives. I wish you happy reading as we bring you our memories.

Teen video contest almost over

Teen video contest almost over

If you’re a teen who likes making videos, here’s a chance to strut your cinematic stuff, possibly earn some prize money and help out libraries. But time is running out. The State Library is a partner in the “2012 Teen Video Challenge.” Teens across the country are invited to create a 30-to-90-second public service announcement video that shows how reading and libraries can be a fun and important part of summertime for teens. Here is how to take part in…

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“One Card, One Community”…Whatcom County libraries unite

“One Card, One Community”…Whatcom County libraries unite

Sam Reed with Whatcom County library directors. Whatcom County libraries unite under a new program called “One Card, One Community.”  Secretary Reed was asked to pose in a photograph with library directors to help promote the new program.  Essentially, libraries within Whatcom County will allow patrons to use any library card within the county to check out books.  And, when returning books, patrons can drop off at any location.  They believe this program is the first in the state.  Libraries participating include, Bellingham Public…

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Court OKs library Internet filters

Court OKs library Internet filters

The Washington Supreme Court says public libraries may filter out porn sites from their computers without violating the state’s strong constitutional guarantees of free speech. In a 6-3 decision, the court said: “A public library has traditionally and historically enjoyed broad discretion to select materials to add to its collection of printed materials for its patrons’ use.  We conclude that the same discretion must be afforded a public library to choose what materials from millions of Internet sites it will…

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This Post is Overdue

This Post is Overdue

There’s been a lot of buzz the past week about a new book that was just published. Marilyn Johnson’s book, This Book is Overdue: How Librarians and Cybrarians Can Save Us All, has been getting a lot of press (and that’s a good thing for all of us). In the book, Johnson argues that librarians remain essential, even in the Google age (especially in the Google age?), but also remain underappreciated. That’s not news for many of us, I’m sure,…

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KCLS Gets Attention for Staffless “Library”

KCLS Gets Attention for Staffless “Library”

King County Library System (KCLS) has been getting quite a bit of attention the last few days for its staffless library branch. It started on LJ – http://www.libraryjournal.com/article/CA6710470.html – “So, how to expand library service on a tight budget? Some libraries have tried vending machines (such as the Go Library/Library-a-Go-Go) or kiosks. The King County Library System (KCLS), WA, just opened an unstaffed 300-square-foot Library Express @ Redmond Ridge, in partnership with the Redmond Ridge Residential Owners Association. “The new…

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WTBBL to showcase library patrons’ art

WTBBL to showcase library patrons’ art

 The Washington Talking Book & Braille Library in downtown Seattle will double as an art gallery later this month as it features tactile art created by the library’s patrons. The library’s  “An Expression of Touch” exhibition will take place in its meeting room October 19-23 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The opening reception is Friday, October 16, from 5 to 8 p.m. Submitted pieces (including one to the left) so far include pottery, baskets, sculptures, textiles and a painting. …

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