On October 5th, 2020, the MHLS delivery schedule was significantly adjusted in accordance with plans presented to the MHLS Directors Association in acknowledgement of both the impact of COVID-19 related facility closures causing systemwide decreased circulation of more than 50% of physical materials and by the 22.6% cut in state aid to the Mid-Hudson Library System for the current fiscal year, also related to COVID-19. As promised, the adjusted schedule has been evaluated quarterly and based on our last review, and as expected, current data indicates a steady increase in circulation and volume through the delivery system. Beginning the week of May 17th, twenty stops will be restored to the delivery schedule. Members that were reduced from three to two stops per week and five to three stops per week will receive an additional stop per week.
MHLS will continue to monitor circulation and the delivery service quarterly as we come out of the pandemic, making adjustments that best serve the membership and manage resources effectively and efficiently. We appreciate your patience and understanding with this process as we have managed the impact of the pandemic on library usage. We would also like to acknowledge our delivery vendor, Valley Courier, for their willingness to be flexible throughout the pandemic. If you have any questions, please contact Tom Finnigan, MHLS Delivery Operations Manager, tfinnigan@midhudson.org, ext. 244 or Chris Herron, Facilities Manager & Assistant Delivery Operations Manager, cherron@midhudson.org, ext. 247. |
|
The Sierra servers have a scheduled update of the operating system (OS) software on June 7th at 6:00 pm with an expected downtime of roughly 4 hours. All services that depend on the Sierra system (Sierra application, Encore, Online Registration, database and eResource authentication) will also be unavailable during the upgrade. Once we have a successful OS upgrade in place, the upgrades for Sierra and Encore to release the 5.3 update can be scheduled. Information on both releases are currently available on MHLS Knowledge Base. |
|
Pleasant Valley Library recently broke ground on their new library building! Senator Sue Serino (pictured center) joined Pleasant Valley Library director Daniela Pulice, board members and staff to commemorate the occasion. The library has been in a temporary location after a devastating fire in November of 2018. |
|
The second Library 2.021 mini-conference: "Reinventing Libraries for a Post-COVID World," will be held online (and for free) on Thursday, June 17th, from 3:00-6:00 pm. In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, librarians have been faced with all manner of challenges as they have worked to bring their service, resources, and events into the virtual realm. Unsurprisingly, librarians have not only met this challenge but thrived in bringing new dynamic digital content, engaging virtual programming and instructional events, such as virtual book clubs, gaming tournaments, and even makerspace activities to their patrons. Join Library 2.0 as they discuss the ways librarians have adapted and evolved their service offerings for a post COVID world. To learn more about this event and to register please visit https://www.library20.com/reinventing-post-covid.
|
|
Resource Sharing & Sierra |
Join MHLS OverDrive Coordinator Nina Acosta on June 14th at 2:30 pm for an Introduction to OverDrive Marketplace. This one-hour webinar will provide an orientation to the OverDrive Marketplace for library staff who are cultivating collections. Nina will review basic reports and features that are available and provide an overview of where to find policies, statistics, and additional support and training materials. Register today through the MHLS Calendar.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
|
UPDATE: OverDrive information has been revised in the MHLS Knowledge Base. Now that we have more resources in the OverDrive platform, there was reason to separate the information to improve access. Usage statistics for all OverDrive circulation is combined in a single report and a new tab has been added for eMagazines. |
|
The Federal Communication Commission (FCC) recently announced that enrollment for the Emergency Broadband Benefit Program (EBBP) will begin on May 12th. At that time, participating providers can begin to enroll eligible households. The New York State Library will host an Emergency Broadband Benefit Day of Action webinar on Friday, May 14th in partnership with Next Century Cities and the New York State Broadband Program. Non-profit organizations, anchor institutions, and local and state governments must work together to build awareness about this critical program. The collective goal is to ensure that every eligible household has the information needed to complete enrollment. In this webinar, local and state leaders will share strategies to support outreach and enrollment.
The EBBP will provide a $50 per month subsidy for broadband service, plus a one-time discount of up to $100 on computers and tablets. Households can sign up for the EBBP through: (1) participating provider's website, (2) applying online through the National Verifier, (3) or through the mail. For help, applicants can contact the Universal Service Administration Company's (USAC) EBBP hotline at 833-511-0311 or email, EBBHelp@USAC.org. USAC will also make the application available to households and consumer-based organizations upon the start of the program at www.getemergencybroadband.org/. The FCC is looking for partners to help promote the program locally. To learn more about EBBP or to become a partner please visit www.fcc.gov/broadbandbenefit. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
|
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced it has issued a number of nationwide child nutrition waivers for the 2021-2022 school year. The waivers are effective July 1 st, 2021, through June 30 th, 2022 and enable schools and childcare providers to continue providing safe and healthy meals free of charge to children amid the ongoing impacts of COVID-19. For more information, read the NYS Education Department's memo. |
|
Reference & Collection Development |
To celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month the Central Library, Poughkeepsie Public Library District has created a listing of books and resources for young children, teens, parents, and educators to learn about generations of Asian and Pacific Islanders who have enriched America's history. Check out the listing at https://poklib.libguides.com/. |
OverDrive currently has a curated collection of eBooks and audiobooks to help your library highlight Asian & Pacific Islander American Heritage Month. The collection is available on the front page or view the complete collection. |
|
NASA Teams Engaging Affiliated Museums and Informal Institutions (TEAM II) is now accepting proposals for two opportunities, including the new Community Anchor Awards for TEAM II to support institutions in establishing themselves as a local NASA STEM informal education and community resource. Selected parties will offer NASA education directly aligned with space exploration, aeronautics, space science, earth science, or microgravity. Eligible proposers include US nonprofit science museums, planetariums, youth-serving organizations, and libraries. Proposals are due June 17 th and July 19 th. |
|
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
|
The 2021 MHLS Trustee Education Series kicks off this month with the introductory program Trustee Essentials presented by Rebekkah Smith Aldrich, MHLS Executive Director. This webinar provides a foundation of knowledge that other workshops in the MHLS Trustee Education Series will build on. This session is particularly for new board members, but open to all.
Register today for one of the following dates:
|
|
Administration & Management |
Registration is now open for the Emergency Connectivity Fund (ECF) for Libraries webinar taking place on Friday, June 4th from 2:00-3:30 pm. Win Himsworth, of E-Rate Central, will be providing information on the application process, what is eligible and the requirements for the Emergency Connectivity Fund established through the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 (ARPA). The ECF will provide over $7 billion for schools and libraries. A question-and-answer period will follow the presentation. Registration for this event is available through http://www.nysl.nysed.gov/libdev/univsvc/webinars.htm. |
|
Programming Assistant, Amenia Free Library
As our Library is currently undergoing an expansion and renovation project, we are looking to hire a Programming Assistant, where the primary focus will be on creating, organizing, and executing the Library’s programming schedule for our community. This includes programs for all of our patrons, ranging from toddlers and children, to teens, adults, and seniors. Staffing the Circulation Desk and other assigned tasks are a part of this position. We are looking for someone who is warm and welcoming to all our patrons, and is also energetic, flexible, and organized, to help create and boost our Library’s programming. The Programming Assistant will be under the supervision of the Director.
Specifics of the Position:
- This will be a Part-Time position, between 20 and 25 hours a week.
- 2-3 Saturdays a month are required, as all of the staff rotate this shift.
- Must be able to provide excellent customer service to all of our patrons.
- Ability to work independently and in a team environment.
- Strong interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills.
- Pay is between $14 and $17 an hour, depending upon experience.
Requirements for the Position:
- A high-school degree/GED is required. An Associate’s or bachelor’s degree is preferred.
- Strong computer and technology skills are a must, including, and not limited to: email services, Google products, E-Resources provided by the Library, and troubleshooting across a variety of technological devices.
- Must be able to bend, lift, and carry library materials up to 40 lbs.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
|
Children’s Program Coordinator, Town of Esopus Library
The Town of Esopus Library is seeking an energetic, flexible and creative person to fill a part-time (25 hours/week) Children’s Program Coordinator position. Under the general supervision of the Library Director, the Children’s Program Coordinator creates, coordinates, publicizes, and facilitates all library programs for children and families. The incumbent manages the children’s print and media collections, assists patrons with reference questions, reader’s advisory, routine computer and internet use questions, and provides circulation services as needed. The ability to interact positively with patrons is necessary, as well an ability to reach out to the community. Strong computer skills are necessary, as well as knowledge and proficiency in library functions. Saturday and evening hours may be assigned. Candidates should have an ability to establish relationships with children and parents, and to communicate effectively both orally and in writing. The incumbent should possess good judgment, initiative, tact and courtesy, as well as a physical condition commensurate with the demands of the position. The salary is competitive and includes excellent benefits.
Candidate should be comfortable with and willing to do programs on Zoom. Required: A Bachelor’s degree in Education, Library Science, English, Communications or closely related field from a regionally accredited or New York State registered college or university, and one (1) year of experience in a library setting or performing duties related to the supervision, coordination and administration of youth programs, OR Graduation from a regionally accredited or New York State registered college or university with an Associate’s Degree in Education, Library Science, English or Communications or closely related field, and three (3) years of experience in a library setting or performing duties related to the supervision, coordination and administration of youth programs.
Please send a meaningful cover letter, résumé and three references to Brooke Dittmar, Director Town of Esopus Library, PO Box 1167, Port Ewen, NY 12466 or by email, esopusdirector@gmail.com.
Applications will be reviewed as received.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
|
|
Library Director, Desmond-Fish Public Library (Garrison)
We seek a dynamic Library Director with a passion for community service to oversee all activities and operations of the Library. The successful candidate will manage and expand library services and programs for community members of all ages to ensure that the Library effectively meets the cultural, informational and social needs of this vibrant Hudson Valley community that has valued and supported its Library for 40 years. The Director will be responsible for leading a dedicated staff of nine full- and part-time employees, working with a committed Friends group and an active 25-member Board of Trustees, overseeing extensive building and grounds improvements and other elements of the institution’s long-range plan for achieving sustainability, raising funds and managing the library’s finances, and innovating new programs and services to meet the changing needs of Library patrons. The Director is responsible for a $650,000+ annual budget.
Essential Responsibilities include but are not limited to:
- Staff and Operations
- Supervising all library services, operations, activities, programs and outreach
- Selecting, training, supervising, and evaluating personnel while creating a harmonious team environment
- Developing and maintaining the Library’s collection in accordance with collection policies and best practices
- Controlling expenditures of funds and maintaining accurate financial records
- Supervising the purchase, utilization and maintenance of technology to deliver, monitor and enhance library services
- Preparing annual reports to the state and the community with extensive data tracking
- Working with Buildings and Grounds Committee to maintain all areas of the Library and its beautiful surroundings
Programs & Events:
- Working with the Development Committee on individual and institutional solicitations, fundraising events and campaigns; grant writing and reporting
- Overseeing year-round library events, programs and community outreach
- Preparing and distributing public relations and marketing materials
Board of Trustees:
- Developing, implementing and evaluating long- and short-term goals and objectives
- Working with the Board in an ongoing planning process that identifies and addresses community and library needs
- Making policy recommendations to the Board and implementing adopted policies
- Preparing annual budget recommendations for Board approval
- Preparing narrative and data reports for all and participating in all Board meetings
Essential Traits include but are not limited to:
- Ability to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere for staff and library patrons
- Excellent written and oral communication skills
- Ability to build relationships with diverse stakeholders
- A commitment to social justice and fostering an equitable community
- Thorough knowledge of current trends and developments in the library profession
- Ability to organize and prioritize work
- Proficiency with computers, popular library software, internet and digital communications
Minimum Qualifications: A master’s degree in Library and Information Science from an ALA-accredited program and five years of experience in library administration.
Salary commensurate with experience. Benefits include health care and 401K contribution. To apply, please send a cover letter, résumé and three references to: searchcommittee@desmondfishlibrary.org by May 25 th. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
|
Part-time Library Clerk, Kent Public Library
The Kent Public Library in Putnam County seeks a Part-Time Library Clerk, 15 to 17 hours a week, including Saturdays from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm. Must have a high school degree, be experienced with computers, courteous, service oriented and able to work with the public at a busy circulation desk. Previous library experience preferred. Ability to speak Spanish and knowledge of social media would be a plus. $12.75 to $13.50 per hour, with paid vacation, sick leave and personal time. Participation in the NY state retirement system is optional. Please send your résumé to cdonick@kentlibrary.org, and mention "clerk" in subject line.
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.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
