Idaho Commission for Libraries

I'm caught up thinking about the future. Earlier this month I attended 5 focus groups with print impaired users and service providers. In those groups we asked questions about information needs, preferred formats for receiving information, and suggestions for improved access to information. I heard frustrations about current capabilities as well as ideas for future services and resources.

The Spring 2008 Books on Tape Update newsletter, order forms, and podcasts are now available for download.

Links:

• Books on Tape Update Newsletter and New Book Order Form
• New Descriptive Videos MP3

The transition to the digital format in the Talking Book Service presents a whole new way to read for those requiring reading alternatives. Users can now download books from NLS BARD onto specialized players. The database is available 24/7 and contains a growing collection (more than 11,000 titles at this time) of books from the NLS collection.

We've just finished selecting the 1500+ titles that will be distributed in digital format when the Talking Book Service transition begins next year. These titles will be available on cartridges and will play on the new digital players.

Earlier this week I visited 7 public libraries in Bingham, Bonneville, and Jefferson counties to discuss the Talking Book Service. I enjoyed meeting with library staff and touring their libraries. I was impressed with the variety of resources available to persons unable to read standard print.

If you haven't attended WebJunction's "Latinos and Public Library Perceptions Report - November 2008 Webinar", check it out at: http://www.webjunction.org/slo-webinars/articles/content/30106393

It contains lots of interesting facts about how latinos perceive (and use) their local public libraries. The most intriquing fact to me:

Of all the factors that influence use of the public library, the most important one is how friendly and welcoming the staff is. Staff attitude is more important than having Spanish language materials in the collection or even their ability to speak Spanish. But what's surprising about that? No matter how good the food is in a restaurant, I won't return if I don't feel comfortable.

If you're thinking about participating in Teen Tech Week 2009 (March 8-14, 2009)check out the resources available at:

http://www.ala.org/ala/mgrps/divs/yalsa/teentechweek/ttw09/home.cfm

Everything from a wiki for sharing ideas, publicity materials, and booklists will make planning and implementing a successful program so much easier.

March 8-14 is Teen Tech Week. Sponsored by YALSA, this year's theme is "Press Play @ Your Library". Share how your library is celebrating anytime throughout March with stories, photos, and links to your website.

If you missed this year's event, get a headstart on next year. Check out

At yesterday's SWILA conference, participants in the Digital Trailer session commented how useful it would be to post their trailers and view those created by others. WebJunction (http://id.webjunction.org/) is a great place to share library related ideas, discussion, and all types of media.

Users can join or create a group on a specific topic and then keep up with information pertinent to that topic, or follow a specific discussion thread. A book discussion group already exists (http://www.webjunction.org/743/resources/overview), or one specific to digtal trailers can be created and others invited to join it. View existing groups and how to create new groups at: http://www.webjunction.org/membercenter and check out "New Groups"

ICFL staff is prepared to "Beat the Heat" with hats and sunglasses for TBS Awareness Day. 20 public libraries statewide are planning activities during the week of August 17-21. Activities will:

• Raise Idaho's citizens awareness about this free, statewide service
• Highlight resources available in local libraries for persons unable to read standard print