by Larra Clark, Deputy Director, ALA Public Policy and Advocacy Office and Deputy Director, Public Library Association (PLA)
In the face of shifting circumstances and an ever-widening constellation of challenges, plotting a sustainable way forward for libraries depends upon recommitting ourselves to our underlying values, such as customer service and community-building, while fostering the improvements that change makes possible.
Needless to say, in our current circumstances social media as a marketing tool is more important than ever for libraries, not only to promote their services but also to build community. For the all-new second edition of Marketing with Social Media, a LITA Guide published in cooperation with ALA Editions, editor Beth C. Thomsett-Scott gathers a range of contributors to explore real-world uses of library marketing technology.
Stacey Greenwell is coauthor (with G. Edward Evans) of the fourth edition of Management Basics for Information Professionals and the second edition of Academic Librarianship.
"As usual," said Deborah Rinio during our interview, "librarians continue to inquire, include, collaborate, curate, explore and engage no matter what the circumstances." She was referring to the unprecedented circumstances in which librarians, educators, and students are in—with schools closed amidst widespread lockdowns, distance learning has quickly transitioned from educational supplement to daily reality.
During this time of uncertainty library workers are finding new ways to provide crucial information and services.
For the new fourth edition of Enhancing Teaching and Learning, original author Jean Donham is joined by new co-author Chelsea Sims, a junior high school librarian and 2018 AASL Social Media Superstar for Student Voice. Together they cover every aspect of the school system, paying special attention to what it takes to become a school library leader.
In the view of author Hillary Dodge, with ties to information needs, social justice, and the maker movement, food literacy initiatives are a natural fit for libraries. Her new book Gather ‘Round the Table: Food Literacy Programs, Resources, and Ideas for Libraries doesn't just make that case, it also showcases a host of food literacy programs from libraries across the country.
"I think taking a design thinking approach offers possibilities for empathy and creativity," says Rachel Ivy Clarke. In her volume of the Library Futures Series, she delves into the design thinking process model and demonstrates how the viewpoint is applicable to all library products and services.
