ALAO News

President's Report: Interest Groups Score

You might wonder why in the world the ALAO President is writing her final Newsletter piece about IGs rather than some presidential issue. It is because, Oh my gosh! (phrase borrowed from a younger generation), I have learned so much and enjoyed so much good fellowship with colleagues across the state by attending IG workshops and a committee workshop this Spring. You’ll likely have the opportunity to read more details concerning these workshops elsewhere in this newsletter but I just can’t miss the opportunity to offer my kudos to the organizers, the presenters and the attendees of each of the workshops offered.

Some examples from my experiences:

The Instruction Interest Group hosted Dr. Steve Wilhoit, speaking on assessment. Attendees had the opportunity for significant learning from a knowledgeable and engaging speaker.

Those attending the Diversity Committee workshop began their meeting in the parking lot milling around together in active learning considering issues important to generations such as the Baby Boomers or GenXers.

In Wooster, attendees at the SSIG began their day honoring Ella Copeland, our most recent Jay Ladd Distinguished Service Award recipient. Opening speaker, Jenifer Grady, Director ALA-Allied Professional Association, led off the day followed by 2004 Supporter of Support Staff winner Linda Dobb of Bowling Green State University and others including a fascinating garden presentation by Professor Laura Deeter of OSU ATI.

The most recent workshop I was privileged to attend was that presented by TSIG. I do not work principally in technical services. However, as we know, collaborative work is helping us all do better work together thus, for me, this workshop was not only extremely interesting, it was a wonderful educational opportunity!

At the end of the day, looking back, "What a great learning experience!" IG groups beyond these have also presented or are scheduled to present workshops. ALAO members, if you have the chance to attend any of these, this year or in future years, I am certain you won’t be disappointed. The IG Chairs clearly are skilled at arranging good programs. If you can’t attend the workshop of your choice, consider learning with another group. Attending a workshop in an area other than your primary work area is a good opportunity to learn what’s happening "on the other side of the library."

On a presidential note, Thank you all for a great year with ALAO; it has been a wonderful experience. Ann Watson will be taking the helm in a few weeks, the annual leadership retreat will signal the change of this office as well as numerous others thanks to many volunteers and elected officers. Congratulations to Doug Morrison, new VP/President elect who is already hard at work forming his 2007 conference planning committee, as well as other new office holders and new IG chairs and co-chairs. One of my principal jobs as Past-President is to find others willing to share in directing the organization. I encourage all members to consider running for office next year; say "yes" when I call to recruit candidates.

Return to Top

2006 Conference Planning Update

 

Things are Cooking! The Conference Planning Committee is hard at work planning ALAO’s annual conference that will be held on November 3 at the Crowne Plaza Quaker Square in Akron, Ohio. The committee has been meeting monthly to coordinate planning efforts. On May 18 the committee met at OhioNet and went the through the arduous task of selecting twenty-four conference presentations from the sixty-six proposals we received. This was a record number of proposals received for an ALAO annual conference. The committee will continue planning for the 32nd annual conference which is entitled, "Recipes for Library Success: Ingredients, Process and Products." http://www.alaoweb.org/oldsite/06conf/index.html

Return to Top

Dates to Remember 2006

Return to Top

Congratulations to new ALAO Officers, Board Members, Committee and Interest Group Chairs

Doug Morrison, Reference and Serials Librarian at The Ohio State University’s Agricultural Technical Institute is our new Vice-President/President Elect.

Colleen Boff, First Year Experience Librarian at Bowling Green State University, is our new Secretary.

Lori Fielding, University of Akron, is the new Membership Chair.

New Board Members are:

• Brian Hickam, University of Toledo, 2 yr. term
• Kathyanne Dobda, Cleveland State University, 2 yr. term
• Al Zavar, Cuyahoga Community College, 2 yr. term
• Mike Tosko, The University of Akron, unexpired 1 yr. term

New Interest Group chairs and co-chairs are:

• Karen Diaz, The Ohio State University, Instruction Interest Group Co-Chair
• Melanie Smith, The University of Akron, Distance Learning Interest Group Co-Chair
• Deberah England, Wright State University, Technical Services Interest Group Co-Chair
• Doris Ebbert, Otterbein College, Collection Management Interest Group Chair
• Judy Orahood, Ohio Wesleyan University, Support Staff Interest Group Chair

Additional new appointments:

• Lori Fielding, University of Akron, Diversity Committee Co-Chair
• Ione Damasco, University of Dayton, Diversity Committee Co-Chair
• Alison Ricker, Oberlin College, Representative to OCLIS & Manual Revision Coordinator
• Betsy Blankenship, The Ohio State University Marion and Marion Technical College, Professional Development Committee Chair

Thank You Past Officers

With gratitude, a huge thank you to all those who are completing their terms of office or have left Ohio employment:

• Megan Kinney, Oberlin College, Diversity Chair, now working in Denver
• John Burke, Miami University Middletown, Past President
• Jacky Johnson, Miami University, Secretary
• Robin Sinn, Bowling Green State University, Board Member, moving to John’s Hopkins
• Jolene Miller, Medical University of Ohio, Board Member
• Judy Williams, Ashland University, Board Member
• Margo Warner Curl, The College of Wooster, CMIG Chair
• Erin Peters, Kettering College of Medical Arts, SSIG Chair
• Jody Perkins, Miami University, TSIG Co-Chair
• Marcia Suter, University of Toledo, Representative to OCLIS
• Lois Szudy, Otterbein College, Manual Revision Coordinator

There are several "not yet confirmed" positions not listed above. In addition some committees and a task force or two will likely be looking for new members. So, if you’d like to be involved, please send e-mail to president@alaoweb.org.

Return to Top

ALAO Diversity Committee Awards Scholarship to Ms. Delilah Capeles

Graphic Artist, Mother, Community Activist, Volunteer, Advocate for Diversity, Entrepreneur, and Future Librarian...these are just a few descriptors of this year's ALAO Diversity Scholarship winner. Ms. Delilah Capeles is a student in the KSU-SLIS 12-12-12 Distance Learning Program. She maintains a high G.P.A. in her master's program while working full-time, being involved in community and professional organizations, and taking care of her family. With her background in graphic design and community activism, Ms. Capeles is eager to apply skills in both of these areas to her new career in librarianship. "As a librarian, I want to work with making the library a real outreach organization...we should be striving to extend our services to the whole communities," stated Ms. Capeles in her scholarship application. Additionally, she wrote, "Promoting library resources, not just inside the library, but getting the message beyond the doors as well, could make a big impact. In my position as a librarian, I want to research advertising and other means of promoting services and see what we can do and what results we can achieve." Obviously, Ms. Capeles is extremely dedicated to issues of outreach and diversity, and has the experience and enthusiasm to lead others in overcoming some of the challenges faced by today's libraries. Congratulations, Delilah! Members of ALAO and all librarians are lucky to be welcoming you to the profession. We'll see you at the Annual Conference in Akron!

Return to Top

Government Relations & Legislative News

Connections are Made

More than 20 librarians descended upon Columbus to meet with state legislators to discuss support for OhioLINK funding and other library issues as part of ALAO’s annual Statehouse Connect Day on Tuesday, May 16. The day started at the Board of Regents office with a briefing by Tom Sanville about the issues facing OhioLINK. Before meeting with legislators, delegates were also briefed on library lobbying by Lynne Bradley, Director of the Office of Government Relations from the ALA Washington Office.

Statehouse Connect Day is sponsored by the ALAO Government Relations Team. The Government Relations Team would like to thank all of this year’s participants and encourage anyone interested to consider participating next year. We would also like to thank Paul Burnam, who organized the day and made it such a success.

Feel free to contact any member of the Government Relations Team for more information.

Return to Top

Annual Leadership Retreat

ALAO’s Annual Leadership Retreat for Board Members took place at the Cherry Valley Lodge in Newark, Ohio on June 5 and June 6. The purpose of the retreat was to make the transition of newly elected board members and Interest Group Chairs more effective. Another purpose of the retreat was to identify specific goals for the organization for the upcoming year.

Pictured left to right
Seated on ground: Alison Ricker
First row: Heidi Beke-Harrigan, Ann Watson, Doris Ebert, Betsy Blankenship, Colleen Boff, Brian Hickam
Second row: Kathy Dobda, Jo-Ann Calzonetti, Kathy Williams Wright, Margaret Maurer, Judy Orahood, Karen Diaz, Karen Vendetti, Ione Damasco, Susan Scott
Third row: Karen Plummer, Mike Tosko, Al Zavar, Frank Bove, Kevin Furness, Greg Martin, Doug Morrison, Melanie Smith, Amanda Watson, Rob Withers

Greg Martin serenades retreat attendees after dinner with a stirring rendition of Amazing Grace.	Combined board during the first day of the retreat.
Frank Bove, Co-Webmaster, gives his presentation.	Karen Plummer can't escape her own camera.

Return to Top

Membership News

ALAO has 398 paid members who are current through December, 2006 or beyond. All memberships run from January to December. Please consider renewing if your membership lapsed at the end of 2005. Your contributions of $20 add up and allow ALAO to benefit librarians and librarianship in many ways.

Though delayed, the membership cards will be my "final project" before handing over the reigns of Membership Chair to our recently-elected Lori Fielding of the University of Akron. If anyone has any suggestions for membership chair related activities, please feel free to contact either one of us this summer. We discussed our Strategic Plan and forthcoming activities, during the recent board retreat.

The main area we need to work on in the Membership Chair area is our institutional liaisons. We now have more liaisons than we did two years ago, but there are a number of institutions without a volunteer.

I have enjoyed my two years as your membership chair. It’s been a wonderful opportunity to learn more about our association, our institutions, and, most especially, our many members. I look forward to acting as one of your Board Members-at-Large.

Return to Top

Interest Group and Committee News

Curriculum Materials Center Interest Group

Spring Workshop

The CMCIG Spring Workshop, Planting Seeds for Professional Growth , was held on Friday, May 19, at Cedarville University, in Cedarville, Ohio. Librarians from across Ohio, as well as from Kentucky, Michigan, and Kansas, attended the all-day event.

The four sessions held during the day covered a variety of topics relevant to CMC operations. In addition to the sessions, there was a business meeting, a tour of Cedarville's Curriculum Materials Center, and ample opportunity for meeting with colleagues both to renew acquaintances and to talk about CMC issues and operations.

 

Session I was a presentation by Nancy Cheney and Eileen Armour from BWI Books. Nancy and Eileen explained the services available to academic libraries and demonstrated BWI's online collection development and ordering tool, Titletales .

 

In session II, Sara Bushong of Bowling Green State University presented a very informative workshop on Promoting Information Literacy Skills Through the WebQuest Model . Sara briefly discussed the history, role, and structure of webquests, and then described Bowling Green's LILAQuest project that focuses on young adult literature titles or language arts themes. The workshop participants then worked in small groups to evaluate a number of WebQuests that were created by students at Bowling Green.

 

Following lunch in the University's President's Dining Room, Deb Mallonee of Cedarville University presented a valuable workshop entitled NCATE 2006: Technology Requirements . Deb began with an explanation of the NCATE definition of technology, and then went through the six NCATE standards and explained how these standards affect CMC and libraries. She suggested ways in which libraries and CMC Librarians could assist pre-service teachers and departments of education in satisfying the NCATE technology standards and also explained the government's PT3 grants.

 

The final session was presented by Dr. Gary Lare of the University of Cincinnati. Gary distributed copies of a newly developed document that he helped to write, entitled A Guide to Writing CMC Collection Development Policies , and then went through the document to highlight parts of each section. The guide was developed by the Curriculum Materials Committee of the Education and Behavioral Sciences Section of ACRL and ALA.

 

Return to Top

Distance Learning Interest Group

The 2006 DLIG spring workshop was held at Ashland University on June 2. Titled "Virtually Anywhere: Innovative Approaches to Library Services for Distance Learners," the workshop offered three sessions, a brief business meeting, a Pacific Rim Buffet and plenty of time for chatting with colleagues. Evaluations were extremely positive and encouraging.The topic was a timely one, attracting 48 attendees from Ohio and Tennessee, and resulting in daily inquiries from librarians across the country who regretted not being able to attend.

The first session "Modules and Online Instructional Design Promote Problem-Based Learning" was presented by Kelly Broughton, Associate Dean for Assessment and Technology, Bowling Green State University Libraries, and Bonnie Fink, Interim Director, Center for Teaching, Learning, and Technology, Bowling Green State University. Their presentation offered discussion on how problem-based learning works for traditional students on campus and non-traditional students online. They discussed how problem-based learning has a direct relationship with adult learning research and online instructional design.

Their session spun off several interesting ideas for future programs. Ruey Rodman, Instruction Services Coordinator of the John A. Prior Health Sciences Library at OSU, gave a presentation on "The S.A.G.E. Project and Library Support for Distance Education." Rodman shared the collaborative process and the creation of a library resources page within the courseware used in a distance education program for non-traditional students. She also described the evolution of the program as OSU developed their own courseware. Rodman shared a CD used by her library to orient distance learners and provided a much-appreciated copy for every workshop participant.

The last speaker of the day, Dr. Christina Bonner, Reference & Instruction Services Librarian, Ohio Dominican University, spoke on "Convergence of the Library and the Freshman Experience: Instructional Collaboration & the Online Environment." Bonner’s presentation focused on the librarian as online course component designer and the issues of instructional collaboration that arose when she used a course management system for a freshman orientation seminar. Although the students in her online course were residential, the instructional design issues she described are essential those who work with distance learners.

During the workshop business meeting, members expressed a great deal of enthusiasm for the DLIG and suggested ideas for future programming. The workshop motivated two attendees to volunteer as new members of the planning committee. The group approved Melanie Smith of the University of Akron to co-chair the interest group with Kathryn Venditti in 2006-2007. The DLIG plans to have both a junior and a senior co-chair over the next few years, to ensure a smooth transition until the interest group becomes firmly established. The DLIG is finalizing a session to sponsor at the ALAO annual conference in November 2006 and several ideas are in the works for an exciting spring workshop in 2007. Stay tuned!

Return to Top

Diversity Committee

The Diversity Committee recently sponsored a thought-provoking workshop on intergenerational diversity in the workplace led by Cindy Schisler, Associate Director for Continuing Education at Wright State University, held at the State Library of Ohio.

Attendees of all ages from various libraries around Ohio (including one attendee from a public library) came to the workshop to learn more about the challenges many libraries face managing a workforce that can span four different generations: the Silents, persons born between 1927 and 1945; the Boomers, persons born between 1946 and 1964; GenXers, persons born between 1965 and 1981; and Gen Ys, persons born between 1982 and 2000.

The day started off with a discussion about the different stereotypes and myths that have been used to describe each generation, but participants quickly learned about the real traits of each generation and their particular strengths. Participants had the opportunity to reminisce about their life experiences as everyone took turns listing the historical and cultural events that shaped the environments each generation grew up in.

Once the participants had a better understanding of each generation’s motivations and values, everyone had the chance to work in small groups to discuss how each generation’s unique strengths and challenges could be more effectively managed in the workplace, sharing real world examples of how each generation behaves within the library work environment. As everyone remembered some of their generation’s best (and worst) moments, the day was well-spent with spirited discussion and lots of laughter.

Return to Top

Instruction Interest Group

Assessing Student Learning Outcomes: Report on the Spring Workshop

Thirty-six individuals participated in the Instruction Interest Group workshop on April 25 at the Ohio State University Science and Engineering Library. Steve Wilhoit, Professor of English and Ryan C. Harris Learning Teaching Center Fellow, University of Dayton, led us through a number of exercises aimed at developing a student learning assessment plan.

We heard that designing and assessing student learning outcomes is best accomplished with thoughtful planning involving librarians, teaching faculty and administrators. Steve explained that a fully developed assessment plan will include, at the least, student learning outcomes stated in measurable terms, with multiple measures for each outcome. Measuring outcomes requires clear definitions of success for each outcome. The ultimate goal is to promote continual improvement in student learning and the instruction program, which requires effective feedback mechanisms to the students and instructors. Steve modeled the process of drafting outcome statements and defining the measurement for each, and the group worked individually, in pairs, and in small groups to begin the same process for his or her instruction program.

Worksheets and discussion guided the process, and many people indicated that the large group discussion/Q&A sessions were very helpful in clarifying goals and techniques to try in our home institutions. Steve’s PowerPoint presentation is on the ALAO web site; go to http://www.alaoweb.org/oldsite/comsigs/iig/

Elaine Dickinson, Head of Reference and Instruction at Capital University, demonstrated a very practical assessment tool she developed for incoming students Capital. Using a tutorial created in Blackboard’s "Pool Manager" program, new students are guided through a series of questions assigned randomly by the Pool Manager. New students login to Blackboard for orientation information, and the library tutorial is part of that process. This very flexible system allows assessment of individuals as well as cohorts, and permits the student to make multiple attempts, with appropriate feedback, to get the “right” answer. Analysis of results helps Capital University librarians develop instruction targeted to varying levels of information literacy among incoming students.

Thank you to Karen Diaz, OSU, who acted as local arrangements coordinator, and to the other planning committee members: Betsy Blakenship, OSU Marion; Lee Bowman, Ohio Northern; Ann Marie Short, Shawnee State; and Richard Wisneski, BGSU. Thanks to Karen also for agreeing to serve as the new co-chair of IIG, taking over for Alison Ricker, Oberlin. Karen was elected by acclimation at the workshop; her 2-year term began with the Leadership Retreat in June. Marcia King-Blandford will continue to serve as co-chair for another year.

If you are interested in helping to plan next year’s workshop, or have suggestions regarding the topic or venue, please contact either Marcia or Karen.

Instruction Clearinghouse Update

Looking for a place where you can share instructional materials with your peers at other academic libraries? In search of a tutorial or pathfinder that you can model for your own instruction? Then check out the ALAO/OhioLINK Instruction Clearinghouse. Housed on the ALAO web site at: http://www.alaoweb.org/oldsite/comsigs/iig/clearinghouse.html and coordinated by the Instruction Interest Group, the Clearinghouse provides materials in several areas: orientation materials, online tutorials, class guides, database instruction sheets, faculty guides, and more.

Plans are underway to make the Clearinghouse a little more user friendly, so continue to consult the site as you prepare to do instruction.

The Clearinghouse only works if people contribute. Submissions are welcome any time, but the next update to the site will be done in July. Send the URL for your contribution and a brief description (along with a contact name and email so we can nag you about updates) to Mary Lee Jensen (mjensen@kent.edu). Thanks for helping to keep this project going!

Return to Top

Professional Development Committee

The Professional Development Committee has completed its work for the 2005-2006 academic year. The committee is made up of the six elected board members at large, but other ALAO members with an interest in this area may join the committee by making their interest known to either the committee chair or the ALAO president.

With elections completed, a new slate of board members at large will take office at the ALAO Leadership Retreat in June. Names of board members and officers will be available on the ALAO web site.

One of the major responsibilities of the Professional Development Committee is the awarding of Continuing Education Grants twice each academic year. These financial grants can be used toward expenses for a one-time continuing education opportunity which relates to the applicant’s current position, e.g. workshop, conference, training event, etc. The application process is open to all current members of ALAO. Deadline for fall applications is September 30, 2006. For more information, see the application form at http://www.alaoweb.org/oldsite/forms/ce-grant06.doc, and watch for news about the grants to appear on the ALAO member listserv and on the ALAO web site.

Return to Top

Support Staff Interest Group

The Support Staff Interest Group held our annual Spring Workshop "Bloom Where You’re Planted: Thriving in the Garden of Your Library" Friday, May 12 at the Shisler Center in Wooster, OH. Our keynote speaker was Jenifer Grady, Director ALA-APA. Her speech, “Running…Towards Change”, was well received and highly informative.

Jenifer also presented a breakout session, "A Conversation with the Keynote," where she talked about the salary survey and certification as well as continuing the conversation about change. Linda Dobb, Executive Vice President at Bowling Green State University, presented “Humor in the workplace?” This informative and entertaining presentation focused upon what we can do to make our work more enjoyable. Nancy Lahmers of Fisher College of Business at The Ohio State University gave us insights about Networking, or as she told the attendees, Building Relationships. This fascinating and educational session taught us to reach out to our colleagues and to build relationships with those we meet.

Finally, one of our other favorite breakouts was "All Gardens Great and Small" by Dr. Laura Deeter of OSU-ATI. Here we explored outdoor gardens of all sizes with slides displaying beautiful landscapes and an expert presenter to explain what plants were being used and how to care for such gardens. Dr. Laura emphasized using gardening as a way to relax outside of work. All our presenters were high energy, informative and entertaining. As a special treat, we all trekked in the drizzle for a tour of the Secrest Arobretum. The day was fun and educational!

Return to Top

Technical Services Interest Group

Announcing the TSIG Scholarship Winners

Ashley Simcox and Joshua Nickerson have been awarded the ALAO TSIG Scholarships. These one-time scholarships were designed to attract students to technical services librarianship in the academic setting, and to encourage their further participation as ALAO TSIG members.

The winners received a one year membership in ALAO, had their registration fees waived for the 2006 ALAO annual fall conference and a Spring TSIG Workshop, and will receive up to $50 for travel expenses to each event. Ashley and Josh were currently registered students in the Kent State University School of Library and Information Science at the time they applied for the scholarship. Congratulations!

New TSIG Co-Chair Announced

Deberah England, Serials and Electronic Resources Librarian at the Paul Laurence Dunbar Library at Wright State University will serve as the in-coming TSIG Co-Chair, 2006-2008. Many thanks to Jody Perkins, the outgoing TSIG co-chair for her many contributions over the past two years. Deberah and Margaret are planning to recruit a group of volunteers to help plan the Spring Workshop for 2007 and to help guide and develop TSIG through 2007. So far six technical services librarians from across the state have expressed an interest in joining the group, which will meet this summer for the first time. TSIG hopes to grow our own leaders for technical services librarianship through this new process.

TSIG Spring Workshop: Chaos or Control: Content, Context and Access in the Digital Age

On May 19th, TSIG held a workshop at the OHIONET building in Columbus that focused on description and access in the digital age. Presenters from across the state discussed their work on unique, cutting-edge research. The OCLC Ontologies Project was described by Jean Godby (OCLC). Diane Vizine-Goetz (OCLC) provided information on the OCLC Terminologies Pilot. Douglas Hiwiller (Cleveland Museum of Art) explained about the Art Museum Community Cataloging Project. Magda El-Sherbini (The Ohio State University Library) discussed the potential impact of the Open WorldCat project on local cataloging practices.

Return to Top

Feature Stories

Building a Foundation for Advocacy

I was honored to be this year’s recipient of the ALAO Legislative Advocacy Travel Award. The award enabled me to attend the ALA National Legislative Day in Washington, D.C. on May 2, 2006 as well as preparatory briefings.

The trip began with a workshop at the ALA Washington office that introduced the “newbies” to the art of lobbying. ALA’s lobbyist and staff from the Washington office prepared us for our experience on “the Hill” by explaining a typical visit with members of Congress and/or their staff members. They also provided us with tips for effectively communicating our issues to them. We learned such things as the average age of a “Hill” staffer (24), and the fact that we might be asked to meet in the hallway (due to lack of space in the office).We also learned to provide personal stories for our issues and to make the issues local for our members of Congress.

On the second day I gathered with the rest of the Ohio delegation (18 of us total) as well as many of the other participants from around the country for a briefing day. We were provided with background on the specific issues ALA wanted us to focus on with members of Congress and their staff. Significant issues included the Erate, LSTA and Improving Literacy Through School Libraries funding, Net Neutrality, and Government Printing Office (GPO) appropriations. National Legislative Day arrived along with my first opportunity at face-to-face lobbying. I was fortunate to join Jo Budler, State Librarian of Ohio for my Congressional visits. I began my day by meeting with an aide to Senator George Voinovich. The aide appeared receptive to our issues. From there the entire Ohio delegation met with Senator Mike DeWine and one of his aides. The afternoon included a scheduled meeting with an aide to my congressman, Ralph Regula. Unfortunately he was unable to leave meetings on Capitol Hill with Congressman Regula. We were able to catch up with Joe Salem (a member of the ALAO Government Relations Team) and join him for a meeting with Congressman Steven LaTourette.

The ALA lobbyist warned us that we would be competing with other groups (such as the propane gas lobby) for the attention of members of Congress. In fact as I waited on the steps of the Capitol I watched as people from various groups passed by on their way to do the same sort of thing I was there to do. I was also struck by how accessible the various congressional office buildings, and the Capitol for that matter, were to the public. Once you passed through the metal detectors you could freely roam between the buildings and among the offices—openly accessing our government.

On the way back to my hotel one afternoon I noticed what appeared to be a somewhat spontaneous demonstration moving up the Mall toward the Capitol. It was obviously an immigration-related protest as it was May 1st. I decided to follow them as they stopped at the reflecting pool in front of the Capitol and then worked their way around, closer to the Capitol. As the group approached the Capitol grounds they stopped and proceeded with various chants. Opposite them on the lawn of the Capitol were members of a group who annually read the Bible continuously for four days.

This sight, combined with my own lobbying experience really emphasized the true nature of our country. If we choose to believe in something, we are able to do that and express that belief. If we want to voice our displeasure with some aspect of our government we can freely gather and express that displeasure. Most importantly, we can access our government and advocate for our causes. This is why I was pleased to be the recipient of this award. I wanted to learn how to better advocate within the system for libraries. Now I have a foundation upon which to build for future library advocacy.

Return to Top

People and Library News

Bowling Green State University-Firelands

The Firelands College Library (BGSU) has hired Deborah A. Miller (who is also probably ALAO’s newest member). She joined the staff in December, 2005. She is employed half time as the ILL/PCIRC person.

Return to Top

Columbus State Community College

Ryan Scott has accepted a full-time position as Reference and Instruction Librarian at Columbus State Community College. Ryan, who had been working at CSCC as a part-time librarian, received his MIS degree from Indiana University in 2003.

Return to Top

Lakeland Community College

Lakeland Community College librarians offered two "Faculty Challenge Grant Workshops" last fall. For the Teaching Information Literacy: A General Education Outcome (GEO) workshops, the librarians created assignment templates addressing aspects of the IL GEO. The faculty can use these templates independently or incorporate them into existing assignments. The templates are available on the library’s website at: http://library.lakelandcc.edu/ILgateway.html

The workshops, which are scheduled to be offered again during the fall 2006 term, introduce faculty members to the IL GEO and work to further collaboration between librarians and faculty who are exploring ways to include Information Literacy in their classes.

Library Service for Students on the Go:

Lakeland’s Library has also received a grant from Lakeland Community College’s "Fund for Strategic Initiatives" for a curbside Express Station. Students will be able to pick up and return library materials without the inconvenience of parking and going into the library itself. The Station will combine a traditional return box with a locker box that opens appropriate compartments when users enter an access code. The locker can be inventoried and monitored by the Circulation Desk via the Internet. This project is modeled after one currently used in the Portage County, Ohio Public Library System

Return to Top

Medical University Of Ohio

Jolene Miller has received a promotion to Head of Information Services. She was previously the Educational Services Coordinator at MUO.

Maria Melssen was recently hired as the Medical University of Ohio’s Reference/Education Librarian. She previously worked at the Mulford Library while finishing her Bachelor's degree in education. Maria then went on to earn her MLIS from Kent State University. While in library school, she did a practicum at Bowling Green State University’s Jerome Library.

Return to Top

Oberlin College

Megan Kinney, Coordinator of the Mellon Librarian Recruitment Program http://www.oberlin.edu/library/mellon/index.html, has moved to Denver to become head of one of the Denver Public Library branch libraries. She will continue to coordinate the work of the recruitment program for the six cooperating institutions for a few months, but we will miss her in Ohio! Megan did a wonderful job as Chair of the ALAO Diversity Committee and member of the Annual Conference Program Planning Committee. Ohio's loss is definitely Denver's gain; Megan will be a great branch library head!

See the entry at Ohio Wesleyan University for more Oberlin College news.

Return to Top

Ohio State University-ATI

Ella Copeland will be retiring from her position as Library Director for The Ohio State University ATI (Agricultural Technical Institute) on June 30, 2006. Ella will have completed twenty years plus in this position. She notes that "it has been an inspiration and a challenge to be a part of ALAO since 1984 when I attended my first ALAO conference at Ohio University- (We stayed in the dorms). One of my most rewarding events was receiving the Jay Ladd Award at the 2005 annual conference. My future plans include long trips with my husband on our trawler Benita. I wish all my colleagues strong ships and talented captains and crew as they continue their voyages."

ALAO will definitely miss you, Ella. Best of luck !!

Return to Top

Ohio State University-Marion/Marion Technical College

Patricia Wood was recently promoted to Library Associate II. In this position, she coordinates technical services, circulation and technology services, as well as management of the library in absence of the director. Pat has been with the Marion Campus Library for seven years.

Betsy Blankenship, Director of the library, co-presented "Can You Tell You're on a Regional Campus? Library Services and Technology Bridge the Gap" with Elizabeth Burns (Director of the OSU-Mansfield/NCSC Library), John D. Crissinger (Director of the OSU-Newark/Central Ohio Technical College Library) and Tina Schneider (OSU-Lima) at the 12th Annual AURCO (Association of University Regional Campuses of Ohio) Conference on April 8th, 2006 at University of Akron, Wayne College.

Betsy Blankenship co-chaired a campus project called "Shopping For Our Soldiers" April 10-27th, 2006. The campus supported a community veterans group in sending monthly boxes to local soldiers stationed overseas by donating items and money. Over 800 items were collected and over $315.00 was donated to buy additional items, including reading materials, food items and personal care items. Enough was collected to support two months of boxes for each of the 14 local soldiers.

The Ohio State University at Marion is one of 12 Ohio institutions awarded a grant by The Institute for Library and Information Literacy Education (ILILE). OSU-Marion received $3,800.00 for teacher education. Betsy Blankenship, Director of the Marion Campus Library, will serve as principal investigator for the project "Preparing Pre-Service Students to Become Master Teachers through Information Literacy Instruction." Team members include the Education Department faculty at Ohio State Marion. According to their website, The Institute for Library and Information Literacy Education (ILILE) "focuses on providing demonstration projects of local, statewide and national significance." Its services include: "information literacy workshops and programs for teacher/library media specialist collaboration, pre-service initiatives, virtual classroom, high school to college transition projects." ILILE is funded through the Institute for Museum and Library Services (IMLS) and the US Department of Education: http://imagine.kent.edu/staff/centers/detail.asp?id=324

Return to Top

Ohio University

Suzette Evans, Senior Library Assistant at the Ohio University Eastern Campus, will be retiring May 27th with 7 ½ years of service. Sue has been OU-Eastern Library’s staff member who works the night and weekend shifts. She received her Associate Degree from the University of Strathclyde (Glasgow, Scotland). Along with her regular duties, she took over responsibility for preservation and repair of materials. Sue’s library colleagues were extremely proud of her in 2003 when she was named the first recipient of the "Ohio University Eastern Outstanding Classified Employee." Sue will be retiring with her husband Rupert to Atlanta, GA to be closer to their children.

Return to Top

Ohio Wesleyan University

Haipeng Li, Reference Librarian at Oberlin College, and Xudong Jin, Associate Director of Libraries and Head of Technical Services at Ohio Wesleyan University, presented "Promoting Global Librarianship: CALAMW - China Collaboration" at CALAMW (Chinese American Librarians Association Midwest Chapter Annual Program on May 6th, 2006.

Joyce Laurence has received an Associate Degree in Applied Science: Information Technology Library Communications from Belmont Technical College.

Return to Top

University of Akron

The University of Akron Press is publishing the first full biography of journalist, editor, biographer, and novelist Thomas Boyd, who was a native Ohioan. The title is Thomas Boyd: Lost Author of the "Lost Generation" by Brian Bruce. ISBN is 978-1-931968-33-1, 167 pages. It is part of the University of Akron Press’ series on Ohio History and Culture.

Return to Top

University of Cincinnati

Angela Gooden, Head of the Geology/Physic Library at The University of Cincinnati, will receive the Special Libraries Association's “Diversity Leadership Development Award for 2006” this June. Angela is treasurer for SLA’s Cincinnati Chapter. More details are available at: http://www.sla.org/content/SLA/awardsrecognition/awards2006.cfm

Return to Top

University of Toledo

Dale Ebersole, Special Collections Librarian, will be retiring on July 1st. He has served the University of Toledo Libraries for 34 years.

On April 27th, 2006, Mark Horan (Coordinator of College Librarians at The University of Toledo), Alice Crosetto, Acquisitions Librarian at The University of Toledo, and Rajinder Garcha, Monographic Cataloger at The University of Toledo) presented a new workshop at OHIONET entitled "Religious Resources: South Asian - Hinduism, Buddhism, Sikhism."

Mark Horan and Alice Crosetto also presented at The Art of the Picture Book conference at Ashland University on May 12th. Their presentation was entitled "Why is The Very Hungry Caterpillar in an Academic Library?"

John Napp, Engineering Librarian at The University of Toledo, will be doing a poster presentation at the American Society for Engineering Education Annual Conference and Exposition in Chicago in June. The title of John’s presentation is "PE Exam Scores and Information Literacy Skills: Is There A Correlation?"

Tom Atwood has been hired as The University of Toledo Libraries’ Information Literacy Librarian. Tom had spent a year and a half as a Visiting Instructor at UT’s Carlson Library.

Kim Brownlee has been hired to be the University’s Manuscripts Librarian / Assistant University Archivist. Kim was a Visiting Instructor at the University’s Ward M. Canaday Center for Special Collections for nearly two years, working with rare books, manuscripts, & archives.

Return to Top

Wilmington College

Lee Bowman has accepted a position with Watson Library as Cataloger/Librarian. He comes most recently from the University of Dayton’s Roesch Library and is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin (M.A., Library and Information Studies; M.A., Hebrew and Semitic Studies) and Bethany Theological Seminary (M.A., Theology). In addition to cataloging, Lee will share responsibilities in reference, instruction and Special Collections.

Return to Top

Youngstown State University

Rebecca Moore was recently promoted to the newly created position Manager of Information Literacy and Assessment. Part of her role in strengthening campus partnerships is coordinating Maag Library’s participation in YSU’s "College Success Workshops." She, along with librarians Robert Ault, Laura Carscaddon, George Heller, and Jan Schnall, taught sessions in the program, which has entered its second year. The College Success Workshops are cosponsored by the Reading and Study Skills Center, University Counseling Center, Center for Student Progress, and Maag Library.

Rebecca Moore, along with Executive Director Paul Kobulnicky, Associate Director of Information Services Jan Schnall, and LMTA II Brenda Scarborough, have been selected to serve on the University's "Higher Learning Commission Accreditation" committee through 2008.

YSU is experiencing a major remodeling project of the Information Services office area which will compliment the recently completed renovation of the Reference Room. The completion date is set for September.

Last but certainly not least, Maag Library is enjoying publicity that money can’t buy: a family of red wing hawks has nested in a tall oak in front of the library. From the 6th floor windows, a large following of nature lovers are enjoying the perfect view from above. The arrival of a baby hawk, all of which was captured and documented on the YSU website, has been an extraordinary opportunity: http://www.maag.ysu.edu/about/hawk_pictures.html

Return to Top

About the ALAO Newsletter

ALAO Newsletter Publication Information

The ALAO Newsletter is published four times a year by the Academic Library Association of Ohio, in September, December, March, and June. It is made available as a benefit of membership. The purpose of the ALAO Newsletter is to advance the goals of the organization and serve the membership.

Deadlines for Contributors:
August 15, November 15, February 15, May 15.

Submission Guidelines:
We reserve the right to edit for space and clarity. Please send text copy to Heidi Beke-Harrigan in electronic format, preferably as an electronic mail Word document attachment or within the body of an email message. Include your name as you wish it to appear. Please attach images as separate files. If you are past deadline, PLEASE call Heidi Beke-Harrigan!

The Academic Library Association of Ohio assumes no responsibility for the statements and opinions of the contributors to this publication. Editorial views do not necessarily represent the official position of ALAO.

Return to Top