Year in Review

It's that time to look back and reflect on this past year. At the library we're reminiscing about the many successful changes and programs to make the library ever more convenient and relevant for you. Homer Library is a community haven for residents and information seekers of all ages, offering materials, computer access, and programs. The Library is also a great neighborhood gathering place and a social destination. Learning continues at every age and stage in a person's life and we note increasing usage during these tough economic times. We hope you stop in soon and see all the changes we have in place!

Save money by using your library...enjoy free DVD movies, read a magazine, check out that brand new book, take a free computer class, register your child for a fun program, join one of our clubs, and benefit from your library more than ever in 2011.

Successful Grant Writing Continues
In 2009 we exceeded our goal of receiving more than one million dollars in grant funding! Creative and talented library staff write many grants to help provide the collections, equipment and programs requested by the fast-growing Homer community. This past year through grant funding we added new computers, equipment, and programming.

Web Convenience
* Homer Library's on the web at http://www.homerlibrary.org/
* Library photos are at http://www.flickr.com/photos/homerlibrary
* Join our conversation on Twitter http://twitter.com/homerlibrary
* Visit us on Facebook - just search Homer Library to find us! Become a fan and find out the latest and greatest to discover even more @ your library!

Your community place!

We continue to evaluate our collections and space needs to best serve residents in the communities of Homer Township and Homer Glen.

What would you like to see @ your library? I value your input and welcome all suggestions and comments. Email me at sheree@homerlibrary.org, message me on AIM at GrantExprt, or call me at (708) 301-7908 and let me know what's on your mind.

Honoring Barry

On Sunday, October 17th we honor Barry Levine by dedicating a wonderful piece of art at the Homer Township Public Library.

I would like to talk about my friend Barry, a most unique individual and a Homer Township Library trustee whom I grew to love. Barry passed away last year (April 29, 2009) of unknown causes. He was listening to a recorded book at the time and I think it quite proper that he left us doing something he so enjoyed. But he left us much too soon.

Barry had three passions in life. The first was his family, wife Phyllis DiMonte-Levine, and their three children: Randy, Rachael and Sarah. They were the light and joy of his life and he spoke of them often. His other two passions involved improving service for the blind and physically disabled and advocating for libraries and their services. He often combined both, successfully contributing to advancing library services for the blind and physically challenged. Barry was a popular and respected individual in local, state, and system library and accessibility arenas and he made a true difference in many lives.

I was so pleased to have him become ILA's 8th Illinois Library Luminary. Posthumously he received the Robert S. Bray award for his national service as well as the Mary McCann Award from the American Council of the Blind.

Barry was recognized in 2001 by the Illinois Library Association and received the Trustee of the Year Award for his advocacy and efforts in the library world. In 2004 Barry received the Alexander J. Skrzypek Award for his outstanding contributions to library service for the blind and physically challenged. He was a mover and a shaker who prided himself on rarely missing one board meeting at either the local or system level in a combined total of 18 years. Barry was a true visionary, contributing to effectively moving libraries into the future and embracing service for all.

I think that I will end by telling you that Barry Levine was a dedicated, positive, proactive, and thoughtful man. He was also eloquent and very funny. I enjoyed both his intelligence and his wit; he loved a good story and shared many with us.

His motto was: "Become involved and stay involved in your community, where you can make a difference." He loved his life, he lived his motto. He made a difference. He left us too soon. And he is greatly missed.

I wish I had one last opportunity to tell him that he made a huge impact in my life and I am a better person for having known him. But then I think he already knows.

Quote of the Day

"All that mankind has done, thought, gained or been: it is lying as in magic preservation in the pages of books." Thomas Carlyle 1795-1881

Your library is green

Homer Public Library strives to be ecologically responsible and has made a commitment to conserve, reuse, and recycle. For several years we have embraced initiatives and made changes that reduce our impact on the earth by using fewer natural resources, reducing consumption and increasing recycling. As a library-wide effort, our green initiatives are staff-driven with strong administrative support. Staff have recycled paper, cardboard, and old books, and overseen the recycling of materials such as ink cartridges, and more.

We have drafted a formal "green document" to showcase our efforts, which include:
* Providing cloth reusable book bags for customer use
* Separating cans and papers for collection/disposal
* Energy efficient computers, turned off nightly to conserve electricity
* Cleaning with eco-friendly products and supplies
* HVAC upgrade that increased energy efficiency
* Recycling paper, cardboard, aluminum cans, plastic bottles and CD cases
* Creation of the electronic newsletter and e-news distribution lists
* Email notices (overdues and reserves)
* Adaption of the library’s lighting and AC settings to reduce energy usage
* Using electronic resources in an effort to cut down on paper memos
* Recycling bins placed out in the public and staff spaces
* Green theme programming
* Print using recycled paper
* Establishment of "shoutbomb" email notification (paperless initiative)
* Eventkeeper online registration to reduce paper use
* Use of energy star products (flat screens, etc.) & LED lights
* Green Scene book displays
* Collecting eyeglasses, cell phones, keys, etc. in partnership with the Goodings Grove Lions Club
* Providing dishes, silverware and cups to cut down on staff use of disposable products.
* Identifying opportunities to network with other libraries, schools, teachers, local daycares, and senior centers to place materials removed from our collection. We have also established a partnership with Better World Books and Reading Tree to provide withdrawn materials to other libraries and agencies.

Future plans include providing "kill-a-watt" kits so patrons can measure electricity use with a monitor device and read resources about saving energy in the home environment; additional programming and materials; a building energy audit; website tips and suggestions; adding recycling bins in public areas, and more.

Together the administration and staff will continue to take an active role in implementing green methods and remain cognizant of the impact we create on the environment.

Leadership from Mary Dempsey

What a travesty from Fox News. In their report on Libraries Today they got it wrong. Again. As they usually do. But this time it was simply... w.r.o.n.g. I mean had the reporters never used a library effectively at any point in their life?

But as usual Mary Dempsey showed her class and leadership with a honest and effective response letter. It never fails to make me sad that we are forced to explain and defend the library institution that positively impacts and supports every citizen at each and every stage in their life.

Thank you Mary, for saying what we all wish we could express so eloquently.

http://www.myfoxchicago.com/dpp/news/library-taxes-closed-commissioner-reaction-letter-mary-dempsey-20100702

System Changes....and Opportunities?

I have always appreciated the support and assistance of the collective at Illinois Library Systems. I enjoyed working at a system agency at one point in my career and thrived on the collaboration and sharing of knowledge. Now through lack of timely and necessary state funding we are losing unparalleled support and talent at the system level. It is a sad time that creates many unknowns.

My hope is that opportunities will arise during this time of great change and transition. As a librarian who embraces change, I hope that we will all emerge stronger, unified, and with increased communication and collaboration. I desire this for all of the citizens who rely on Illinois libraries, and for the many libraries and staff who diligently work on their behalf.

To the many wonderful people who have provided leadership at system agencies:
Thank you for your dedication to Illinois libraries.

Your talents for advocacy, staff training and professional development, board guidance, legislation, grant development, marketing initiatives, and a host of other services too numerous to list, will be greatly missed.

The Chicks are hatching!

Visit our Webcam @ Homer Library!

Homer Township Library would like to announce our exciting live hatch program Chick-it-Out @ Homer Library. The chicks are hatching - two so far and we have two dozen eggs in the incubator!

We have a webcam to view the chicks' progress in the incubator - take a look here. Full program information is on the library's website. Pictures are posted to the library's flickr photo site. This is a very fun and exciting program for both customers and staff!

Starting our 5th Year of Bookmobile Service

Happy Birthday, Bookmobile!

We are celebrating our bookmobile service which brings library outreach, services and materials directly into our extensive Homer community.

Come visit the bookmobile at Dellwood Park on Friday, June 11 from 10:30-2:30 along with many other awesome vehicles at the TOUCH A TRUCK DAY.

The bookmobile is a fine example of an innovative service that without grant support could not have been undertaken. Our bus is simply amazing and I hope you will see (and enjoy!) it first-hand. Several years ago, Homer Library received a $150,000 grant award and the process of building a new state-of-the-art bookmobile began. Grant funding is a high priority and successful grants fund new services, collections and programs for our fast-growing community. This is especially important as your Homer Library continues to operate at the original tax rate established 25-years ago, without any tax increase, ever.

What's new on the bus?
Bookmobile Manager Jody Olivieri and library staff have done an outstanding job to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Rolling Library usage continues to rise thanks to all of YOU. This summer the bookmobile will be undertaking new stops at Saddlewood Estates, Woodbine West and Pebble Creek. We will also be featuring Stories in the Park and a Summer Reading Club as well as other Summer Fun events!

Come aboard to see what we can do for you.
And always feel free to tell me what's on your mind. I'd love to hear from you!

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I am a Candidate for Vice President/President-Elect

I am honored to be nominated for the position of Vice President/President-Elect of the Illinois Library Association (ILA). In 2009, I was elected as an ILA Director-at-Large to serve a 3-year term. This experience has been both rewarding and educational. I look forward to continuing my service, perhaps in a new role, with ILA.

On April 1st, ILA opened the 2010 Election Polls, which run the entire month. Candidates are posted for the Vice President/President-Elect, ALA Councilor, and Board of Directors. View the President-Elect candidate statements and biographies here (mine is listed 2nd with a familiar picture). Other candidate statements can be found here.

ILA is a not-for-profit educational organization that provides effective leadership to the Illinois Library community and is 3,700+ members strong. This membership includes public, academic, school, and special libraries and librarians, and is comprised of trustees, library staff, students, and vendors. It would be an honor to represent IL librarians and the interests of the library communities we serve.

My Personal Statement
This is a challenging time for today's libraries. Proper funding, fiscal constraints, system changes, technology shifts, and other issues are each of great concern. The vibrancy of our services and value to the community we each serve must continue to be advocated front and center. We need to spotlight how relevant and essential libraries are in supporting Illinois residents at every stage - and age - in their lives. We need to mentor library colleagues and communicate with both our community of users and elected leaders to promote effective library advocates and - even more so - library champions. ILA provides strong leadership and addresses the many challenges today's libraries face.

If elected as the ILA Vice-President/President-Elect, I would listen thoughtfully, work hard, and strive to provide a positive voice to encourage leadership, relevancy and support. As a proud member of our profession I would be honored to serve in a new role as part of ILA's partnership with Illinois libraries. Our collective vision can make a true difference.

Check out my other blog, The Synergistic Librarian.

New for You - Macy's Museum Adventure Pass!

We are proud and pleased to be able to now offer the "Museum Adventure Pass, presented by Macy's." Beginning April 1st Homer Township Public Library card holders can receive free admission to 19 exciting museums and cultural institutions throughout the Chicago area. Brookfield Zoo, the Chicago Botanic Garden, the Oriental Institute, Bronzeville Children’s Museum and Morton Arboretum are among those included. This special opportunity is made possible by a generous contribution from Macy's.

Visit the library to pick up a one week pass for the museum of your choice. They are available on a first come, first served basis.

Background
The Museum Adventure Pass Program launched September 1st, 2009, and is a first of its kind partnership in the greater Chicago area for Macy’s, the DuPage, Metropolitan, North Suburban, ten libraries in Prairie Area Library Systems, 19 local arts and cultural organizations, and more than 160 suburban area public libraries. Since the program launch, library patrons have checked out over 23,000 passes to participating institutions.

So many adventures await – some you might never have expected! All you need to take part in these learning adventures is a valid Homer library card.

The Museum Adventure Pass program is designed to enhance the learning experience for people of all ages through books and other library materials, and to provide access to arts and cultural organizations. For a full listing of participating institutions and for check-out guidelines, go to www.museumadventure.org, or ask the next time you visit the library.

"The Museum Adventure Pass is a truly innovate approach to education that Macy's is thrilled to support," said Brad Poterack, District Vice President, Macy's. "Our hope is that people who may not have access to the wonderful local arts and cultural scene will use this program as a learning tool for themselves and their families, and realize that libraries are a great way to explore and learn something new."

Participating organizations include:
Air Classics Museum of Air and Space
Arlington Heights Historical Museum
Bronzeville Children's Museum
Brookfield Zoo
Cantigny Park
Chicago Botanic Garden
Children's Museum of Oak Lawn
Cuneo Museum and Gardens
Elgin History Museum
Elgin Public Museum
Graue Mill and Museum
Hellenic Museum
KidsWork Children's Museum
Kohl Children's Museum
Lake County Discovery Museum
Mitchell Museum of the American Indian
Morton Arboretum
Oriental Institute Museum
St. Charles Heritage Museum

About Macy's
Macy's, the largest retail brand of Macy's, Inc., is known for epic events like Macy's 4th of July Fireworks® and the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade®, as well as spectacular fashion shows, culinary events, flower shows and celebrity appearances. Building on a 150-year tradition, Macy's helps strengthen communities by supporting local and national charities that make a difference in the lives of their customers.

Snapshot: One Day in the Life of Illinois Libraries

We joined many libraries this past month when participating in "Snapshot: One Day in the Life of Illinois Libraries"on Wednesday, February 10.

In Homer Township our library serves as many things to many people, and a typical library day includes events for babies through seniors. This unique "snapshot" provided us with the opportunity to document usage in a fun way, with pictures and by asking people to tell us exactly what they think. And they did! The results are interesting and much of what I learned reinforces that we serve as a true social center in our community.

We have compiled Snapshot Day comments with pictures and statistics into a handy little booklet, which we will be providing to our elected officials to chronicle our library's importance to the community and how customers truly rely on us.

YOU SAID...a sampling of Homer Library's customer comments:

1. The teen section is pretty cool. I like the colors and chairs. It's a cool place to hang.

2. The Library is the most important service that Homer Glen provides. I am an ardent user of it. The entire staff is just wonderful.

3. Funding for local libraries should be increased, not cut. In today's society, the library serves as one of the few good resources for families in a time when there are far too many distractions and mischief for our kids to get into.

4. I love the libraries in this system. I rely on them for entertainment, information and books! (My favorite things!) As I cannot afford home-computer internet access I utilize this also. I do NOT know what I would do without the Library and its helpful staff.

5. We could not live without it!

6. Going to the library is a favorite regular outing with my daughter (written by a dad!)

7. I LOVE my Homer Glen Library. Great selection of materials and anything I have ever wanted was available thru the Prairie Cat System. Also ALL those that work at my Homer Glen Library are Knowledgeable, Efficient, and Super Friendly!

8. On a scale of 1-10 with 10 being the highest, my library receives a 25.

9. This is the "Best Library Staff on the Southwest Side." The people who work here do an "Excellent Job"

10. Our Library is a welcoming place for our community members and families. They offer great programming and a friendly, helpful staff. We visit our library weekly, as well as, our library's bookmobile. We enjoy using the library's computers, programs, and children's area.

11. The Homer Bookmobile is awesome! They have a bunch of books and DVD's! I love my Bookmobile!

Snapshot Day, was created as a project of the Illinois Library Association, and helped us to showcase libraries in a challenging and exciting time. The vibrancy of our services and value to the communities we serve continues to grow and we are more relevant than ever today. More than 90 libraries showcased photos of this special day which can be found here.

Visit your library today and look at it with fresh eyes to truly see what we offer. Imagine even more @ your library.

Come Play @ Homer Library

Play Literacy is based on the idea that children learn best through play. Early Literacy Play areas at Homer Library can help to stimulate a child's intellectual and social development and prepare children for structured formal learning and school activities. The SouthtownStar article describing this new library initiative is here.

Early Literacy Play Areas include:

LEGO CREATION TABLE - supports eye-hand coordination, creativity, thinking skills

INTERACTIVE & BOARD BOOKS - easy to hold, promotes reading readiness and exploration

PUZZLES - encourages problem solving, eye-hand coordination, develops fine motor skills

TRAIN ACTIVITY TABLE - develops social and thinking skills through interactive play

CABIN PLAY HOUSE - stimulates creative, interactive and social play

DOLL HOUSE - dolls of the world for creative play, modeling and social skills

PUPPETS - stimulates imaginative play and role playing

COMPUTERS - fun and educational games foster reading, math, science, and more

EDUCATIONAL GAMES/TOYS - encourages school readiness, fuels intellectual development

Bring your child to the library for a great start to succeed in reading readiness through play!