Program+Management

The management piece is the work of leading the library program and keeping things running smoothly. This includes managing and planning for the space, maintaining and planning for the future of the collection, being responsible and forward thinking in regards to budgeting, developing and working toward the vision of the ideal library media program at Highland, and leading the staff of the Learning Center.

My goal is to have a smoothly running library where students and staff feel welcome, experience positive interactions and high-quality library service which is responsive to the needs of the learning community.

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Streamlined Scheduling
Moved to Google Docs for scheduling the library space, particularly the lab and the Promethean Board/Reference area. After talking with Caren K. about the need staff members were expressing for a way to see the availability of various computer resources, she created an online system for this data.The LC Lab was included. As I saw the need I also added a column for the other flexibily scheduled space, the reference area with the Promethean Board.

Introduced & Exploring New Services
Along with Erin Carr at Adler, we launched a listening and literacy program that introduced eAudiobooks to the collection or the library and allowed students to check out iPod shuffles in order to listen to books. Our collection was a mismash or formats and although we had at least three different formats, things didn't seem to be circulating well. After talking to students it seemed the obstacle was the means to play the audio. We can use the existing CDs as well as add the much more affordable digital audio files to the collection.
 * Mini-Grant Project: Literacy on the Go**

There are a myraid of eBook options. Increasingly the library community is applying pressure to publishers and device-makers to develop more library friendly rules.
 * Exploring eBooks - To be launched during 2011-2012**

We're about ready to jump into the eBook fray at Highland. My plan next year is to have some eBooks available and add a few eBook devices to attempt to level the playing field for students between those who have access and those who do not.

I did a survey of students for interest, have joined various networking groups dedicated to the topic, and have make contact with various vendors.

**Leading the LC Personnel**
My personal learning plan was two-pronged this year. One of the areas was to improve my own managerial skills. I am not technically the supervisor of the library staff members; however, I act as the de facto supervisor by managing task assignments and other issues. To this end, I've sought out workshops and other opportunities to build my skills. I've tried to implement agenda-driven library staff meetings on a weekly basis and improve my communication skills.

I look forward to getting more guidance on expectations and ways to improve in this area. I'd also like to discuss evaluation of the library clerks as this is something that is not currently being done.