Qi Chen Presentation

Presentation topic: Library Management and Operational Mechanisms--Library Management, Administration, Services and Good Practices

Abstract:American libraries have over more than 150 years of history. Tax -supported American public libraries are based in and highly influenced by public policies and legislation at levels of national, state, regional and local political government. The laws and legislations of municipal government, counties/parishes, school districts, and city/counties are making sure that libraries have adequate number of professional staff, who can provide quality services needed for the communities. Coming from this point of view, this presentation discusses the organizational structure of the American public libraries, the services, the customers, the staff, and where the funds are coming from. Further, this presentation also talks about the relationship and roles of various associations for public libraries, esp. the role of American Libraries Association, the state and regional library association in securing the policies, stability, resources and staff for the public libraries.

Managing a library is like managing any other organizations; the administrators and directors need leadership skills to lead a successful library. Among many leadership styles, this presentation will focus more on a rather new type of leadership: the transformational leadership. As described by Bass (1985) transformational leadership motivates followers to help them develop and achieve to their fullest potential and contribution. Transformational leaders pay attentions to individuals, stimulate their intellectualism and inspire their motivations. It transforms people’s expectations about themselves.

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Presentation topic: Public Library Services and Related Policies

Abstract: Americans have traditionally been turning to public libraries for free access to information and resources. The role public libraries plays in promoting and providing access to information is so essential to its citizens and the advancement of the society as a whole that it is almost impossible to image US cities without public libraries. This presentation gives an overview of the Borough of Brooklyn, one of New York City’s five boroughs, and the Brooklyn Public Library, one of the city's three public library systems. As the fifth largest public library in the United States, the Brooklyn Public Library provides rich resources and well-planned programs serving the needs of its diverse patrons. The presentation focuses on customized services to various age groups, including children, teens, adults, seniors and groups with the special needs. It includes detailed information on demographics, collections, and programs, such as Summer Reading, outreach, as well as volunteer and internship opportunities. Related policies are discussed via case scenarios that include library cards, computers, fees, emergency closing and other user-oriented services. Other topics cover the areas of librarian professional development, promotion and evaluation. The presentation presents a snapshot of a large urban public library with a focus on the depth and width of the services it provides to its patrons with varying educational, economic and cultural backgrounds. Furthermore, this presentation aims to create a forum for librarians in the United States and China to share experiences and ideas, to bridge gaps between nations and people, and most importantly, to explore opportunities for partnerships to enrich services to their users.

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Clement Chu-Sing Lau Presentation

Presentation topic: Library Law: Principles, Cases, Development

Abstract: This presentation will provide an overview of the development of the legal environment of American libraries with special attention to the public library setting. It will begin with an introduction to the overall legal and policy framework in which libraries operate. The presentation will turn its focus to examining the legal basis for public libraries, their sources of authority, and the laws, rules and regulations of the federal, state, and local level that affect their operations. Attention will also be given to reviewing key laws and policies that are directly related to libraries. Case studies on legal issues that public libraries are likely to be involved in on a daily basis will be discussed. This presentation will discuss the self-regulation and voluntary codes of conduct set by library professional groups. It is hoped that by understanding the role of law in shaping library development and specific laws that affect library operations, such awareness will help the library better develop its policies, respond to potential legal issues, and reduce its legal liability risks.

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Scott Walter Presentation

Presentaion Topic 1: Professional Education for Academic Librarians: From Core Competencies to Continuing Education

Abstract: The professional skills required of an academic librarian are evolving in response to ongoing changes in technology, the information environment, and the enterprise of higher education. Discussions of professional education for academic librarians must now assume that the librarian will be involved in continuous professional education throughout his or her career, and that professional education programs must be designed with a view to the librarian as life-long learner. This presentation will provide an overview of the "core competencies" in U.S. librarianship through review of frameworks provided by professional associations and through models employed in U.S. libraries. This presentation will conclude with a study of model programs for continuing professional education in areas such as "Web 2.0" technology, teaching, and scholarly communications.

Presentaion Topic 2: Assessment Programs in Academic Libraries: Overview of an Emerging Field

Abstract: Assessment is an increasingly important component of academic library management, but not all libraries are prepared to meet the demand for effective assessment. This presentation will provide an overview of assessment programs in U.S. academic libraries, as well as the integration of assessment metrics into strategic planning efforts. This presentation will conclude with an introduction to the place of assessment in LIS education programs and professional development programs for academic librarians interested in assessment.

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Presentation Topic 1: Public Library Assessment and Professional Development

Abstract: Library assessment is an integral part of successful library management. It is a means and process that libraries are examining closely to determine how well they are serving users. This presentation will introduce the culture of assessment, its definition and purpose, why libraries perform assessments, and the areas that need to be assessed. It will provide a general overview of evaluation models, assessment methodologies, available tools and standards that public libraries in the U.S. most commonly use to measure their performance, and how to work with assessment methods. A successful library assessment stands to improve overall service quality and increase the efficiency of direct library services to users, and thus enriching their experience and lives. Well educated and trained library professionals and staff are vital to successful library management and operations. While it is important that librarians and staff should possess a certain set of skills, it is even more crucial that their skills are continuously improved through professional development programs in the fast changing environment of library and information services. This presentation will define professional development in the context of library operations, its purpose and the need for such programs. It will introduce core competencies that library professionals must maintain, various continuing education and in-service training programs that support professional development, the role that the library human resources office can play, and the responsibilities and skills that a library director must retain. A successful library service depends on the quality of its professionals, which in turn will enrich the experience of their users through excellent service.

Presentation Topic 2:Profile of the Library Associations and Their Roles

Abstract: Since the formation of the American Library Association (ALA) in 1876, library associations at the state, national, and international level have contributed greatly to the essential services for libraries and librarians, including conferences, professional development, publications, standards, and advocacy in the field. This presentation gives an overview of various library organizations, such as the American Library Association (ALA), Public Library Association (PLA), International Federation of Library Associations (IFLA), Illinois Library Association (ILA), Council on East Asian Libraries (CEAL), and Chinese American Librarians Association (CALA). These organizations have been effective in advocating libraries and library services for their constituents, promoting standards and core values, as well as encouraging life-long learning and professional education.

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Presentaion Topic 1: Public Library Services

Abstract: Public library is the community’s informational, cultural and arts center. It is the gateway to life long learning. Free access to books, computers and research assistance; and customer-centered library programs contribute to the community’s quality of life. Using the example of Fremont libraries in California, the presenter will discuss the basic principles of public library services; different types, sizes and levels of library; services to various constituent groups from children, students, job seekers, the elderly, minority groups, functional illiterates, and jailed inmates.; the important role of library to promote reading, help users succeed in school and build successful enterprises; funding sources and the debate of fee based service; the impact of Internet on public library service, and effective strategies to garner community and political support for library services in the future.

Presenter’s experiences of working with Library Commissions, City and County government representatives, Library Foundation, Friends of the Library, media, community organizations, and Volunteers will be shared.

Presentaion Topic 2: Public Relations

Abstract: Good public relations can effectively introduce library services and resources, advocate and protect the positive image and position of the library in the community, and garner public and legislative support for the library. Presenter will share strategies that include planning; getting administrative and funding support; involving staff, community organizations and volunteers. Problem solving examples will be shared.

Presentation will include a short report about local library community’s participation in California Library Association’s Legislative Day. These advocacy activities aim to educate state legislators and their staff about the needs and achievements of local libraries, and to gain legislators’ funding and political support.