It Never Hurts to Ask!
Posted on October 13, 2021
Listening to the radio recently, I was reminded that this week is the semi-annual fundraising drive for my local public radio station.
My Library Is... Blog
Advance Planning and Flexibility Makes Outreach a Success
Posted on October 11, 2021
Back in June, it was with cautious optimism that I emailed our staff to say “we’re getting the band back together!” It was time to dust off the prize wheel, order tchotchkes, air out the tent, and get back out into the community for some personal interaction with residents.
Giving a Voice to Small and Rural Libraries
Posted on September 27, 2021
Small and rural libraries play a critical role in connecting community members to vital resources and programs. Each year nearly 30 million Americans are served by the nation’s approximately 4,000 rural library systems. This number illustrates the value that local communities place on library services. Small and rural libraries are the heart of the community they serv
All the Crafts!
Posted on September 13, 2021
…watercolor bookmark, clay pot gnome, beeswax wrap, cactus rock, painted tea towel, clay pot leprechaun hat, framed burlap chick, sock bunny, decoupage trinket tray, bird mason jar, braided bracelet, swirly paper flowers, lip balm tin, tiny herb pot, tulip string art…
Making the Most of August at the Library
Posted on August 23, 2021
I have a love/hate relationship with August. I hate August because it sometimes feels useless. August is long and hot and dreary. Summer reading is wrapping up or is over already, but it is too soon to start thinking about next year. Patrons seem to be far too preoccupied with tying up their own summers and getting ready for back-to-school to participate in programming.&
Sparks Podcast Episode 33: Durand CUSD #322
Posted on August 13, 2021
What happens when you realize that your community is unaware that they have access to a library? You apply for a My Library Is... grant and use those funds to create awareness that the public library is combined with the school library!
My Library Is… Increasing the Visibility of Local Government and Policy Expertise
Posted on August 10, 2021
Northern Illinois University (NIU) is home to several programs designed to facilitate meaningful collaborations that address state and regional challenges, promote growth, manage change, and build stronger communities.
#FundLibraries Challenge Update!
Posted on August 5, 2021
Thank you to all of the libraries that have already participated in the #FundLibraries Challenge! We've seen some incredible creations from libraries who want everyone to know how they make a difference in their community. Who knew you could make such wonderful things out of books?
Upcoming My Library Is... Online Roundtables
Posted on July 6, 2021
Are you interested in graphic design for your library? Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a newbie to the topic, there are two events coming up that can help you unlock new possibilities! Both of these events are open to any library staff from any Illinois library.
Partnering with the Parks Department to Inspire a Community
Posted on June 21, 2021
As a youth services programmer this year has been tough. Severe restrictions on space ensured an inability to fully engage and collaborate in person throughout the pandemic. This restricted access made it difficult to feel connected to the community my library sought to serve. In order to help bridge this gap, the Robert R.