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Volume 18-48 | 11.27.18 
2018 Library Votes
Public libraries within the Mid-Hudson Library System received a resounding "Yes!" from their community members in support of their continued financial contribution. Thirty-one communities voted on tax levies for their public libraries in 2018 with a 100% success rate. You can review the full results of this year's votes in the MHLS Public Library Vote Toolbox: http://bit.ly/2Bbx1Ew

In an unprecedented occurrence a vote to "dissolve and terminate" the Woodstock Public Library District was put on the November ballot. The measure failed by a 2-1 margin.

MHLS applauds all libraries that went to the polls this year. Careful financial planning in the Property Tax Cap era is essential to the viability of libraries, in the Hudson Valley, for the future. Routine budget votes are a critical component of a healthy financial strategy for all types of libraries. If your library board would like to discuss sustainable funding plans please feel free to contact MHLS Executive Director, Rebekkah Smith Aldrich at rsmith@midhudson.org  
MHLS Announcements
MHLS Staff would like to thank the DA for the delicious appreciation luncheon on November 15th. Also, a hearty thanks to the Sustainability Initiative Green Team who adorned the event with "upcycled" decorations.


MHLS Libraries
The Tivoli Free Library has generously requested that any proceeds from the upcoming Oblong Books event with Susan Orlean (where she will discuss her new book, The Library Book about the unsolved mystery of "the most catastrophic library fire in American history" at the Los Angeles Public Library!) go to support the Pleasant Valley Free Library, another library that has suffered from a catastrophic fire. This event will be held on Wednesday, December 5th from 6:00-8:00 pm at Murray's in Tivoli. Tickets are $10 and the cost of the ticket may be applied in full to the purchase of a book by the author at this event. To learn more and to register: https://bit.ly/2Ravpiz
 
The Poughkeepsie Public Library District implemented Recite, web accessibility software, on its website earlier this fall. This cloud based solution includes many accessibility features including but not limited to; text to speech, dyslexia software, color contrast settings, font size adjustment and a translation tool with over 100 languages. Visit https://poklib.org/#ReciteMe to use the program in real time.
Resource Sharing & Sierra
Upcoming Sierra Lunchtime Webinars , presented by MHLS ILP Operations Supervisor, Thomas O'Connell:
All Lunchtime Webinars begin at noon and run for approximately 45 minutes. Seating is limited for these webinars so register today at http://calendar.midhudson.org
Programming
The National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) and Arts Midwest have opened the application process for the September 1, 2019 - June 30, 2020 NEA Big Read program. This grant program annually supports approximately 75 dynamic community reading programs, each designed around a single NEA Big Read selection. Organizations selected to participate in NEA Big Read receive a grant, access to online training resources and opportunities, digital resources, and promotional materials designed to support widespread community involvement.
 
NEA Big Read applicants submit proposals to host a series of community events presented at a variety of locations over the course of one month or longer. Events use the same NEA Big Read book as a point of departure and encourage participants to engage both with the book and fellow community members. Each NEA Big Read program includes: a kick-off event, often attended by high-profile leaders and other local luminaries; major events inspired by the content and themes from the book (e.g., panel discussions and author readings); artistic events related to the book (e.g., art/writing contests, film screenings, and theatrical performances); and book discussions in diverse locations involving a wide range of audiences.
 
Access the Application Guidelines at https://bit.ly/2Sa7FLC
Application Deadline: Thursday, January 24, 2019. 

Administration & Management
E-Rate Training 2018: The Division of Library Development and E-Rate Central will present a webinar on E-Rate filing on Wednesday, December 5th from 10:00 - 11:30 am. Win Himsworth of E-Rate Central will present, focusing on proper use of the Form 470 and the use of Category 2 funding. To register go to: https://bit.ly/2FG6t1i Questions? Email Mary Anne Waltz, NY State E-Rate Coordinator for Libraries, MaryAnne.Waltz@nysed.gov 
Job Openings
Circulation Clerk, Desmond-Fish Library (Garrison)
The Desmond-Fish Public Library is a full-service community library located in the small town of Garrison, NY. Our Board of Trustees and staff are committed to the Library's role as a sustainable, tech-savvy, and community-oriented resource for our patrons.

We are looking for a friendly, energetic, detail-oriented people person to run the library's circulation desk, provide reference and technical assistance to patrons, perform routine collection maintenance, and help create a warm and welcoming atmosphere for our patrons.

Qualifications:
  • Enthusiasm for public service, collaborative spirit, and sense of humor
  • Ease with computers and technology
  • Excellent attention to detail, accuracy, and organizational skills
  • Outstanding verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills
  • Ability to work independently and with others
Preferred, but not required:
  • Prior experience working in a public library
  • Knowledge of Sierra Integrated Library System
This job is part time, starting 2-3 days per week (including some weekend days) at a rate of $1 3.50 /hour.  

If you love helping people and want to work in a friendly, collaborative environment, please send your résumé and cover letter to   desmondfishdirector@gmail.com

MHLS recommends that the minimum starting salary of a full or part-time librarian with an MLS degree be at least equal to that of a teacher with a master's degree in the same community.

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