Category: Uncategorized

I have always wondered what to do about old tech files. In high school I used to save my files on floppy disks before CDs and saving to a cloud were a thing. I also remember seeing my parents wedding on VHS. Memory labs are a game changer. Library users can digitize files they once thought were lost. Through equipment that can convert these older files into an updated format, people can recover and preserve memories. I am amazed how many libraries have memory labs and I am just now learning about it. To locate a memory lab nearby: https://memorylabnetwork.github.io/

Memory labs have even made it into the news:

The Frederick County Public Library has a step-by-step tutorial on how to use the memory lab to convert files.

The Los Angeles Public Library has a memory lab and they have provided instructional guides with screenshots to guide library users in the file conversion process. https://www.lapl.org/memorylab/diy 

California Revealed is an organization that aids institutions in hosting memory labs in California on a mission to help people preserve their personal history. They have a vast catalog of preserved material. My favorite so far are viewing the home videos.

A peak at what Disneyland was like in the 1960s:

https://californiarevealed.org/do/37f2e09a-5059-4f7e-997c-1b9681817e39 

“You can’t hate someone whose story you know.” – Margaret Wheatley

I was inspired by the animation created by StoryCorps about Storm Reyes journey and how a library bookmobile changed her life (Popova, 2016). The librarian encouraged her to explore reading, which led to her ability to venture beyond the environment she had been conditioned to. Libraries do indeed change lives.

From a staff perspective, people inspire librarians.

Here are a couple of my library patron encounters:

A man walked in searching for a specific patent from the early 1900s. I helped him locate the patent and showed him how to use the copy machine. I mentioned the option to take photos of pages on his phone if the copier became too cumbersome. He thanked me and told me why he was looking for the patent. His  daughter was diagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy and he needed the patent to send to one of his daughter’s doctors for a potential treatment option. He and his wife had created a foundation dedicated to advancing research and raising awareness about Spinal Muscular Atrophy.

When I was working as a Library Assistant on the weekends, I would encounter a woman who brought in her shopping cart into the library.  She was experiencing homelessness. She would use the computer to read the news and sleep in the stacks. Once I brought in an orphaned kitten into the library with permission because I was working and they needed to eat every 2-4 hours. The woman heard the kitten crying and she screamed out, “Where’s the crying baby?” I showed the kitten to her and apologized for the noise. She held the kitten in her arms and her face lit up with joy. She said she did not mind the noise. Through this encounter, I was able to establish some rapport and realized how libraries are not just about resources, they are about connecting with people.

These two encounters reinforced the mission and value of library work, emphasizing the importance of ensuring that “the underserved and invisible … feel welcomed and encouraged in our spaces, both physical, virtual, and across the community itself” (Paxaman, 2019).  Tasks that may appear minor like locating a book or showing someone how to use the printer can make all the difference.

Sharing my personal library story: https://287.hyperlib.sjsu.edu/catladylilia/2024/08/31/my-library-story/

Please feel free to share any stories! 🙂

References:

Paxman, M. (2019). Challenged but not dying, the public libraries are more relevant than ever. Jutland Station. https://web.archive.org/web/20201125214023/http://www.jutlandstation.dk/challenged-but-not-dying-the-public-libraries-are-more-relevant-than-ever/

Popova, M. (2016, October 6). How Libraries Save Lives . The Marginalian. https://www.themarginalian.org/2016/10/06/libraries-storycorps-bookmobile/

@catladylilia

Sometimes you read things right when you are meant to.

After taking some time to reflect on the election results, I struggled with inertia. Several thoughts of Are family and friends, okay? What can I do? Not this, again. Everything was at a standstill and there was no gas in my personal tank.

What’s helped so far:

• Taking stock of how I feel and allowing myself to sit uncomfortably with it for a minute and let it pass.
• Limiting the intake of news and social media
• Extra animal time- I have two cats and two dogs. I have increased my time with them as a reminder to be in the present.
• Remembering I am not alone

I found comfort in reading Mike Gaetani’s Q&A with Eric Klinenberg about the book Palaces for the People: How Social Infrastructure Can Help Fight Inequality, Polarization, and the Decline of Civic Life. The book discusses social infrastructure and helps readers identify and evaluate local institutions that help shape a community. The institutions are comprised of public spaces such as public libraries and parks. Klinenberg mentions that during his book tour he discovers how each community possesses a unique social infrastructure.  He highlights how some cities understand “a modest increase in local taxes produces a massive public benefit” because “libraries have become a critical part of the safety net, the educational system, and the local democracy” (Gaetani, 2018). Investing in libraries benefits everyone by providing a space that promotes social inclusion and equitable access to information. What I found interesting was Klinenberg’s response to why some cities fail to invest in libraries, “I think it’s because too many cities are led by people who don’t recognize the enduring value of libraries. Too many American elites – in policy, business, and philanthropy- see them as luxuries, rather than critical social infrastructures” (Gaetani, 2018).  Libraries are often seen as a place that houses books. Libraries are much more than that. They help bridge the social gap by providing communities with equitable access to technology, information, social events, and local resources.

Klinenberg’s book was written during the first Trump presidency. I very much relate to Klienenberg’s statement “today it feels like the house is on fire and there’s not much point in doing anything other than trying to put it out” (Gaetani, 2018).

via GIPHY

In skimming some of the pages in Klinenberg’s book, I stumbled upon this quote:

“What we need, now more than ever, is an inclusive conversation about the kinds of infrastructure—physical as well as social—that would best serve, sustain, and protect us (Klinenberg, 2018).”

After we take a moment for self care and check in on people, it’s time we start talking.

References:

Klinenberg, E. (2018). Palaces for the People: How Social Infrastructure Can Help Fight Inequality, Polarization, and the Decline of Civic Life (First Edition). Crown.

Hi Everyone!

I struggled with coming up with an idea for a new library service that UC Davis does not already have.

In my  quest, I wanted to see in what ways can libraries help first generation college students. I was struck by the phrase “Seeing fellow students studying or doing academic work in the library spaces matters for first-generation students who … may not have personal family models about how to become a student” (Arch & Gilman, 2019).

I have participated in a few virtual study sessions with peers and the experience has helped with reducing the feeling of isolation and has provided a support network.

I was happy to discover virtual study sessions have been implemented in a library setting.  The University of Strathclyde has implemented virtual study sessions and created a toolkit for libraries to use.  My hope is this trend will catch on as the world is embracing the Hybrid school/work model.

Here is the link to my presentation

@catladylilia

It is easy to get caught in the hamster wheel of adulting. Many work a 9-5 job, tend to children and/or pets, try to prep dinner or lunch for the next day, homework for classes, sleep, and repeat. Hygge (pronounced “hoo-ga”) is “taking time away from the daily rush to be together with the people you care about- or even by yourself- to relax and enjoy life’s quieter pleasures” (Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Denmark, n.d.). Life is much more than just the highlight reels. The moments in between are a significant part of the human experience.  Hygge is about comfort, joy, and that feeling of home. The feeling of being safe, cared for, and loved. An image that comes to mind is a cat or dog sleeping by a fireplace. They are content and in the moment. Another example is a gathering of loved ones enjoying a meal and board games.

Libraries can promote hygge through resources such as libguides and hosting events. The Boston Public Library has a page dedicated to hygge resources such as book lists about happiness, mindfulness, food, music, and hobbies.

https://www.bpl.org/hygge/ 

They have hosted “Hygge Evenings” where people can indulge in a cup of tea or hot chocolate and enjoy coloring or reading. They also offered “hygge kits” with hot chocolate packets and coloring sheets to go (Boston Public Library, 2024). This allows people the chance to unwind at home.

The Morse Institute Library has a similar page with video and audio resources from Spotify.

https://morseinstitute.libguides.com/hygge 

The Jackson-Madison County Library utilizes their Makerspace to host DIY projects.

https://jmclibrary.org/media/series/vfhj6ww/makerspace-projects

Libraries can offer soft spaces such as comfy couches, book nooks, and areas for crafting, hobbies, or boardgames. Allowing people to pause gives them the chance to be in the moment and aid with their well-being.

In high school, my mom and I would have late night chats over hot chocolate or tea and cookies. It was a way to connect and talk about anything. It was our own version of hygge.

Below is an infographic on ways to hygge inspired by the article How to hygge: 8 ways to be happier, the Danish way published in The Telegraph:

Ways to virtually participate in hygge:

Enjoy a Virtual Fireplace:

Enjoy some tunes:

Take a moment to pause and be in the moment.

References:

Boston Public Library. (2024, January 11). Hygge Evening. https://bpl.bibliocommons.com/events/65944bd761803d360073ed2c

Hyggelig Jazz – playlist by Spotify | Spotify. (n.d.). Retrieved October 14, 2024, from https://open.spotify.com/playlist/37i9dQZF1DX6kQOEoHSaYy?si=X0DKdC-6SBG6c8s3ZTtbiw&nd=1&dlsi=084e347fec934587

Jackson-Madison County Library. (n.d.). MakerSpace Projects. Retrieved October 14, 2024, from https://jmclibrary.org/media/series/vfhj6ww/makerspace-projects

Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Denmark. (n.d.). What is hygge: All you need to know about the small joys of life. Retrieved October 14, 2024, from https://denmark.dk/people-and-culture/hygge

Morse Institute Library. (n.d.). Hygge. Retrieved October 14, 2024, from https://morseinstitute.libguides.com/hygge

The Telegraph. (n.d.). How to hygge: 8 ways to be happier, the Danish way. Retrieved October 14, 2024, from https://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/discovering-hygge-in-copenhagen/eight-ways-to-be-happier/

Trumpet, C. (2018, December 3). 12 HOURS of Relaxing Fireplace Sounds – Burning Fireplace & Crackling Fire Sounds (NO MUSIC) – YouTube [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UgHKb_7884o&themeRefresh=1

Libraries are for everyone. One of the challenges all libraries face is reaching every person in their community. Information professionals are often faced with the question, “how [can we] connect with our users, find ways to be present in their lives, and let them know what we can do for them?” (Stephans, p. 41).  Libraries can leverage technology to reach as many people as possible. Information professionals must come up with ways to interact with users “across virtual and physical planes” (Stephans, p. 41).  Social media is a method in which libraries use to engage with their users. TikTok is one of the major social media platforms libraries can utilize to reach users. Jensen’s article about #BookTok, mentions how “students who might otherwise not have set foot in their libraries” are showing interest in reading through #BookTok recommendations (2022).  I was curious to see if any local libraries in my area use TikTok to reach their users. The Woodland Public Library uses TikTok to interact with their community.

They engage with their community through TikTok videos to spread information about services and events. They have a TikTok video featuring former President Barack Obama and their library cat Henrietta.

@woodlandpubliclibrary

Henrietta and her friends encourage you to explore all of the things your local library has to offer! 📚 Thank you to President Obama and the Obama Foundation for partnering with us and supporting the freedom to read. 📚 #LetFreedomRead #FreedomToRead #SummerReading #woodlandpubliclibrary

♬ original sound – Woodland Public Library

The Woodland Public Library posts videos that fun, engaging and informative.

A couple of my favorites below:

@woodlandpubliclibrary

Can you tell we are excited for October? We love spooky season at the library! #woodlandpubliclibrary #californialibraries #librariesoftiktok #publiclibraries #locallibrary #spookyseason #octobermood

♬ Teddy Bears Picnic – Henry Hall

@woodlandpubliclibrary

Henrietta the library cat has our hearts #woodlandpubliclibrary #henriettathelibrarycat #californialibraries #librariesoftiktok #corazondemelon

♬ sonido original – PlantillasCCTrend

In contrast, several libraries in Oregon are partnering with the Oregon Humanities on a project called “Dear Stranger” (Tillamook County Library, n.d.). Oregon Humanities is an organization dedicated to cultivating a sense of community for Oregon residents. Residents of Oregon can exchange letters with complete strangers. People can include photos, recipes, and their thoughts on what kind of place they want Oregon to be. Through this partnership Oregon libraries can reach users through the mail. There is something about exchanging handwritten letters that allows people to connect with each other.

As technology evolves, libraries must also evolve to continue helping their communities; however, it is the people who make up the community, that essence of humanity who make all the difference.

References:

Jensen, K. (2022, February 10). As Seen on BookTok: Inspiring Young Readers, TikTok is a Boon for Books. School Library Journal. https://www.slj.com/story/as-seen-on-booktok-inspiring-young-readers-tiktok-is-a-boon-for-books-libraries

Stephens, M. (2016). Reaching All Users. In The Heart of Librarianship: Attentive, Positive, and Purposeful Change (p. 41). University of Chicago Press.

Tillamook County Library. (n.d.). Dear Stranger letter campaign comes to the Tillamook County Library. https://www.tillabook.org/library/page/dear-stranger-letter-campaign-comes-tillamook-county-library

Woodland Public Library. [@woodlandpubliclibrary]. (2022, September 30). Can you tell we are excited for October? We love spooky season at the library! #woodlandpubliclibrary #californialibraries #librariesoftiktok #publiclibraries #locallibrary #spookyseason #octobermood [Video]. TikTok. https://www.tiktok.com/@woodlandpubliclibrary/video/7149256289850314027

Woodland Public Library. [@woodlandpubliclibrary]. (2023, July 19). Henrietta and her friends encourage you to explore all of the things your local library has to offer!  Thank you to President Obama and the Obama Foundation for partnering with us and supporting the freedom to read. #LetFreedomRead #FreedomToRead #SummerReading #woodlandpubliclibrary [Video]. TikTok. https://www.tiktok.com/@woodlandpubliclibrary/video/7257514181908516142

Woodland Public Library. [@woodlandpubliclibrary]. (2024, July 12). Henrietta the library cat has our hearts #woodlandpubliclibrary #henriettathelibrarycat #californialibraries #librariesoftiktok #corazondemelon [Video]. TikTok. https://www.tiktok.com/@woodlandpubliclibrary/video/7390816860712914222

@catladylilia

Image generated using the prompt “An outline of a tree with roots in an autumn scene with colorful foliage,” by Microsoft Bing and OpenAI. Image Creator, 2024.(https://www.bing.com/images/create). Note: image edited with Adobe Express to illustrate how libraries and people are connected.

I was struck most by the concept of how libraries are not limited to a physical space. Traditionally, “libraries have always been about access to stories of the world, collected, cataloged and placed on a shelf waiting to be discovered” (Stephens, 2019, p. 92). Libraries in this instance are seen like a warehouse of books with undiscovered services. Only those who dare venture into the four walls can utilize resources. As technology evolves, so must libraries by embracing “an active, visible role in [their] communities” (Stephens, 2016, p. 80) through participatory service. Libraries can use social media to communicate with the public about available programs and services. Libraries can ask users for ideas and feedback on what services would be useful to the community. For example, the Los Angeles Public Library asked their community for input on future services (Mack, 2013). Allowing the community to have a voice in the decision-making process makes people feel valued and heard. What I find fascinating is how ideas from the community can transform into partnerships and future services.

There are a variety of ways libraries can engage with their communities through technology. For example, the Tahlequah Public Library purchased an interactive projector named “Obie” (Gardner, 2024). I was impressed by the variety of games available on the projector, such as puzzles, coloring, and Bingo. Users of all ages can learn, create, and connect with each other through the projector. Removing the “what if someone breaks the new technology” concern allows room for users to cultivate new experiences. Many libraries have also embraced hosting a creative space through the addition of 3D printers. For example, the Fort Worth Public Library is currently hosting a 3D bridge printing contest for teens (Fadden, 2024). This event encourages creativity, play, and community engagement.

Libraries can connect with their communities through partnerships. Libraries can partner with local agencies. For example, the Martin Luther King Jr. Library partnered with the organization People Assisting the Homeless (PATH) to help the unhoused community with their needs (San Jose Public Library, n.d.). The library transforms from a place that houses books to a conduit connecting people to much needed resources.  I was curious to see if my local public library had any partnerships. I learned the Yuba County Public library partnered with First Five Children and Families Commission to encourage early literacy in the community (Yuba County Library, n.d.). Engaging parents and children while they are young will encourage lifelong learning.

I was amazed to discover how diverse potential partnerships can be. These are just a few examples: The Woodland Public Library partnered with the Northern Bats organization in hosting a presentation educating the community about bats (Zavala, 2023). The Sacramento Railroad Museum and Foundation and the Sacramento Public Library partnered in creating exhibits to educate the public about the history of the railroad with a focus on Black laborers and riders (Cusack, 2024).

Libraries are not bound to their physical space. Through the use of technology and active participation in their communities, libraries can expand beyond “a place where learning happens but as an institution that transcends its walls” (Matthews et. al, 2018). For example, the Lee County Library partnered with their local Parks and Recreation to create a book walk (Leigh Acres Citizen, 2023). People can read a book while walking in the park. The library has actively integrated into the community. Many libraries have also started a seed library where the community brings in seed packets to be shared with everyone.  Sera Shevchenko, a San Diego Public Library patron stated, “I love these seed libraries because it just makes me feel like our community is making the effort to support others, to bettering the environment, and bettering education” (Golden, 2024). The community is encouraged to participate and support their community through seed donations.

Libraries can move beyond four walls, create experiences, and connection in communities.

Libraries are about people.

References:

Cusack, T. (2024, August 8).  Railroad Museum and Foundation partner with Sacramento Public Library on two exhibits that showcase local artistry created by Parks and Tranquility Grant awardees. Sacramento Press. https://www.sacramentopress.com/2024/08/06/railroad-museum-foundation-partner-with-the-sacramento-public-library-on-two-exhibits-that-showcase-local-artistry-created-by-parks-and-tranquility-grant-awardees/

Fadden, M. (2024, September 3). Fort Worth Libraries to host 3D printer bridge-build contest for teens. Community Impact. https://communityimpact.com/dallas-fort-worth/keller-roanoke-northeast-fort-worth/government/2024/09/03/fort-worth-libraries-to-host-3d-printer-bridge-build-contest-for-teens/

Gardner, L.  (2024, March 7).  Library Welcomes Obie, an interactive projector. Tahlequah Daily Press. https://www.tahlequahdailypress.com/news/library-welcomes-obie-an-interactive-projector/article_12e3657c-da7b-11ee-9ece-03ca70489ae5.html

Golden, C. (2024, September 18).  Seed libraries are sprouting across San Diego County. The San Diego Union-Tribune. https://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/2024/08/03/seed-libraries-are-sprouting-across-san-diego-county/

Leigh Acres Citizen. (2023, July 14). Lee County Library System partners with Parks and Recreation for book walk at Veterans Park. https://www.lehighacrescitizen.com/2023/07/14/lee-county-library-system-partners-with-parks-recreation-for-book-walk-at-veterans-park/

Mack, C. (2013, February 17). Crowdsourced Design: Why Los Angeles is asking the Public to create the library of the future. Good. Crowdsourced Design: Why Los Angeles Is Asking the Public to Create the Library of the Future – Good

Matthews B., Metko S., & Tomlin P. (2018, May 7). Empowerment, Experimentation, Engagement: embracing partnership models in libraries.  EDUCAUSE Review. https://er.educause.edu/articles/2018/5/empowerment-experimentation-engagement-embracing-partnership-models-in-libraries

Microsoft Bing & OpenAI. (2024). Image Creator (DALL-E 2) [AI image generator]. https://www.bing.com/images/create

San Jose Public Library. (n.d.). About Social work in the library. Retrieved September 22, 2024, from https://www.sjpl.org/social-work/

Stephens, M. (2016). Communities of Practice. In The Heart of Librarianship: Attentive, Positive, and Purposeful Change (p. 80). American Library Association.

Stephens, M. (2019). Being Human. In Wholehearted Librarianship: Finding Hope, Inspiration, and Balance (p. 92). American Library Association.

Yuba County Public Library. (n.d.).  Library Programs. Retrieved September 22, 2024, from https://www.yuba.org/departments/library/library_programs.php

Zavala, G. (2023, July 27).  Woodland Public Library hosts Northern California Bats presentation. Daily Democrat. https://www.dailydemocrat.com/2023/07/27/woodland-public-library-hosts-northern-california-bats-presentation/

@catladylilia

Hi Everyone!

My name is Lilia and this is my third semester in the SJSU’s MLIS program. I am enjoying the adventure this far! I am working through the Academic Librarianship track.

I’m excited to take this class. I am hoping to learn and grow my writing skills. I also hope to connect with fellow MLIS students.

Thank you for stopping by!

-Lilia

P.S pardon the short post, currently at the ER. The lesson I am learning: listen to your body, drink lots of water, and it’s ok to ask for support