Michael Casey and Michael Stephens discuss how to bring the concepts of Library 2.0 into the library
Be Selfish, Promote Service By Michael Casey & Michael Stephens - 06/15/2009
Now, More than ever, we need to deliver our best customer service. No library users should walk away feeling that their questions or needs were not fully addressed. No teen should come to the reference desk only to be met by a sarcastic answer and a hand gesturing them to some distant region of the stacks.
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Reasons for Optimism By Michael Casey & Michael Stephens - 05/15/2009
These may be tough times, but libraries are more important than ever. We find reasons for optimism and also offer advice to new graduates. Libraries are going through some difficult times right now. What gives you hope? MS: Libraries are forging ahead with low-cost technologies and new initiatives. Many nimble librarians are adapting quickly to the current economic climate, offering access to g...
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Cheers & Jeers By Michael Casey & Michael Stephens - 04/15/2009
We've been writing the Transparent Library for two years, so it's time for some more thumbs up and thumbs down. Jeers to the five board members at Topeka and Shawnee County Public Library, KS, for voting yes to restrict four books about sex. This does not help library users—who shouldn't have to face barriers in seeking such books—or public perception of their community.
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You Can’t Afford Not To Do These Things By Michael Casey & Michael Stephens - 03/15/2009
We’ve written about ideas for improving customer service, boosting staff morale, fostering change, and building a management and communication style that is win-win for both staff and administration. There are no expensive technologies to purchase, no cutting-edge software to struggle with, and no $500-an-hour consultants. Our suggestions involve listening, dialog, and transparent actions.
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Dear Library Directors By Michael Casey & Michael Stephens - 02/15/2009
We appreciate your feedback, positive and negative. As we move into 2009, even as you grapple with budget challenges, keep in mind that these Five Things We Just Can't Ignore in Libraries require moxie more than money. Privacy: We really need to rethink our privacy concerns, offer varying levels of opt-in, and educate our users about a networked world in which our life streams are saved through...
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The Transparent Library: Six More Signposts By Michael Casey & Michael Stephens - 12/15/2008
Last month, we presented six mile markers for your transparent library. Here are six more. Have an open-door policy. You have to listen to be heard. And you have to be out there to be noticed. Whether you're a director, leader, or manager, listening to your community and working with other leaders and managers is the only way you will remain relevant and grow stronger as a leader and help build...
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The Transparent Library: Six Signposts on the Way By Michael Casey & Michael Stephens - 11/15/2008
We recently presented a workshop in London at Internet Librarian International, based on our writings here, and realized that throughout the columns we've identified a set of mile markers for the journey toward transparency. Give everyone an avenue to talk. Offer online and real-world mechanisms for all of the library's stakeholders, staff and users, to talk, react, and suggest solutions.
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Design Institute 2007 December 11, 2007 at Chicago's Harold Washington Library Center:Design Institute 2007
Learning Gardens New York's GreenBranches program links the library to the street.
Green Picks: LBD May 2007 Want to reduce your library's carbon footprint? Join the Cradle-to-Cradle revolution. Helen Milling shares the green products her firm is using.
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