Chicago Underground Library

Discover how an atypical library is handling the changes currently affecting libraries of all types and how your library might benefit from their unique perspective.

Nell Taylor and Emily Porter of The Chicago Underground Library will discuss the similarities and differences between standard public library services and those offered by the CUL.  Determine how your library can learn from the CUL service model, collection development policy and outreach strategy. Topics touched upon will include marketing strategies, fundraising projects and taking advantage of staff talents to produce unique programming opportunities. Plus, learn all about this distinctive and valuable library and how it serves the community.

Friday, November 4, 2011 from 9:30 a.m. to 12:00 noon
Oak Park Public Library
Main Library
834 Lake Street
Oak Park IL 60301

How Libraries Beat Redbox and Netflix

Americans borrow 2.1 million DVDs from libraries every day.  For many libraries, this translates to over 50% of their circulation, according to the recent OCLC report How Libraries Stack Up.  Ensure that your movie and documentary collection gets its fair share of attention with a robust collection, creative promotions, and expert advice.

Please join us at Glenview Public Library as Debbie Wordinger, Head of Adult Services at Indian Prairie Public Library and Christine Cigler, Marketing Coordinator at Indian Prairie Public Library, speak about the inherent value of movies in our patron’s library experiences and share practical methods to become comfortable suggesting titles.

Friday, September 16, 2011 from 9:30 a.m. to 12:00 noon
Glenview Public Library
1930 Glenview Road
Glenview IL 60025

Chicago History Museum Visit and Research Center Orientation

Please join us at the Chicago History Museum for an overview of the rich resources of the Archives and Research Center.

The Chicago History Museum is devoted to collecting, interpreting, and presenting the rich multicultural history of Chicago and Illinois.  Knowing what resources are available to our patrons can help us help them, and the expertise of their archivists and librarians can greatly benefit the students, historical researchers, and other interested individuals that we work with every day.

Join us in the Museum’s North and Clark Cafe at 9:30, followed by a Research Center Orientation.  If you like, plan to stay and tour the museum on your own; museum admission is included as part of this free program.

Tuesday, June 14, 2011 from 9:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Chicago History Museum
1601 N. Clark
Chicago IL 60614

Libraries, eBooks, and Copyright: The Changing Landscape

The world of downloadable materials seems to be changing daily. New devices, formats, and distribution channels are popping up, creating a complicated landscape for libraries, publishers, authors, and readers alike. Can libraries get a seat at this table? Will the library of the future still have books? Join us for a discussion about the library’s new role in the arena of digital content.

Speakers include Eric Hellman, a noted technologist and entrepreneur who writes some of the most inventive and refreshing perspectives on libraries and ebooks, and Lindsey Levinsohn, Collection Development Specialist at OverDrive.

Friday, February 18 from 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Harold Washington Library Center
Chicago Public Library
400 S. State Street
Chicago IL 60605

The Power of Word-of-Mouth Marketing

Featuring Peggy Barber, a noted speaker and author and co-owner of Library Communication Services, this workshop is based on the premise that all of us who believe in libraries can help get the message across, can by our own enthusiasm  inspire others to use and support this unique resource.  In this age of dot.coms, cell phones, and road rage, caring and conviction still rule.  It’s time to get passionate about “selling” libraries. Learn about the most powerful form of advertising of all:  What it is/Why do it/ Who to do it/How to do it/ and where customer service fits in.

Friday, November 19 from 9:30 – 12:30
Gail Borden Public Library District Main Building
720 North Grove Avenue
Elgin, IL 60120
847-742-2411

September 17, 2010: Dewey and Beyond: A Panel Discussion

Join Melissa Rice of the Frankfort Public Library District, Bleue Benton of the Oak Park Public Library , and Michael Geeraedts of the Highland Park Public Library for a panel discussion about the latest and best ideas in patron-friendly classification.

View Melissa’s presentation.

View Michael’s presentation.

As public libraries embrace new models of providing the best service to our patrons, many libraries are re-thinking everything, including the way we catalog and organize materials.  This panel will address three different perspectives: Melissa Rice will discuss the Frankfort Public Library District’s decision to de-Dewey the entire collection and the logistics of implementing that decision, Bleue Benton will discuss Oak Park Public Library’s rich browsing project, and Michael Geeraedts will highlight the strengths of the Dewey Decimal Classification System and the continued relevance and use of Dewey for public libraries.

Friday, September 17 from 9:30 – 12:30
Oak Park Public Library
834 Lake Street
Oak Park, IL 60301

May 21st, 2010: Visit to Pullman State Historic Site

Join us for a visit to the Pullman State Historic Site and Archives. The presentation includes a guided tour of the town and a visit with Pullman’s archivist.

Friday, May 21st from 9:30 – 12:30
11111 S. Forrestville Avenue
Chicago, IL 60628

Download the program flyer. (PDF)

February 19, 2010: Creating a Dynamic Library Atmosphere

What’s the first thing people see when they come into your library? Is the soda machine really the first impression you want to make? Librarians are gifted verbal thinkers–come and see how you can think more visually, and make some changes in your surroundings for little or no money!

Please join Sally Decker Smith, who has pursued and shared many interests in her 30 years in Libraryland and Ted Swigon, former Exhibits Director at the Museum of Science and Industry, for a lively and informative discussion.

9:30AM – 12:00 PM
Chicago Public Library – Harold Washington Library Center (map)
400 S. State Street
Chicago, IL 60605

View the program flyer (PDF).

New Models for Library Service

November 20, 2009
Addison Public Library

Featured Speakers:

• Toby Greenwalt, Skokie Public Library: “New Models for Library Service: An Introduction“
• Lynn Dennis, Roselle Public Library: “Get Social With Your Library” (handout)
• Jonathan Bullington and Katie Cousino, TribLocal: “TribLocal: A Unique Way to Reach Your Community”
• Bill Pardue, Arlington Heights Memorial Library: “Predatory Reference“