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My Library Is... Blog

Northern Illinois Library lockers.

Lockers Aren't Just for Gym Shoes

Posted on January 25, 2021

The University Libraries at Northern Illinois University quickly pivoted to low- and no-contact services to respond to the pandemic. Many academic libraries were well positioned for such actions. We have emphasized innovative practices for years in order to meet and exceed the expectations of our tech-savvy users.

Scott Zella

Gingerbread House Decorating Days at The Henderson County Public Library District

Posted on January 21, 2021

This year we celebrated 20 years of building and decorating gingerbread houses at the Henderson County Public Library District!!  Back in 2000 the library director (I was the assistant library director in 2000) attended a class at Fondulac PLD to learn how to build a gingerbread house and the list of candy to purchase.

Drive-Up Window. Image credit: Glenview Public Library.

Reaching Patrons While the Doors Are Closed

Posted on January 14, 2021

When the Glenview Public Library first shut its doors back in March, we found ourselves scrambling to help our patrons. As time went on, we started adapting to change and coming up with new ways to serve our community, and as winter approached and COVID-19 cases began to rise again, we knew there was a chance that the Library would again close to the public.

Date Night at the Library: Image credit: Donna Forbis.

Date Night at the Library

Posted on January 11, 2021

In 2019 BC (Before COVID), our library hosted a self-directed program for couples called “Date Night at the Library.” It was quite popular, and the plan was to run this program again this year, but we all know what happens to “best laid plans . . .” Even though we may not be able to invite couples in to explore the library in person, the concept can still be adapted for distance usage.

Image credit: Stephanie McCabe via Unsplash.com.

Library Advocacy: A Resolution for Us All

Posted on January 4, 2021

As we say good-bye to 2020, it is customary to set goals moving into the new year. The promises we make for ourselves generally center on self-improvement and less on the impact we have on our community.

Teen Using Laptop. Image credit: Annie Spratt via Unsplash.com.

My First Year as a School Librarian

Posted on December 28, 2020

I started working at my hometown library when I was 16 and have been working in libraries ever since. The library was my happy place as a teen and in my first year as a school librarian, I hope to bring that feeling to an entire school of teens and teachers alike.

Image credit: Oregon Public Library.

Fine Free at Oregon Public Library

Posted on December 21, 2020

Oregon Public Library went fine free in January 2020. It seems like many moons ago, however, this philosophy change is still making its impact. As an organization, we decided that going fine free was an important change to make. Unfortunately, Oregon has not always had the best perception among community members and we are on a path to change that.

Assistant Director Heather Zabski helped devise the efficient assembly line for preparing materials for delivery. Image credit: Fox River Valley PLD.

The Birth of a Library Service

Posted on December 14, 2020

Home delivery: a more comfortable way for patrons to get library materials during a global pandemic.

What to Expect When You’re Not Expecting

Image credit: Fox River Grove Public Library District.

Fox River Grove Library Unveils Grant-Funded Videos

Posted on December 9, 2020

The Fox River Grove Public Library District has created two videos to promote the Library and the Fox River Grove community. The videos were funded by the My Library Is… Grant from the Reaching Across Illinois Libraries System (RAILS). The videos are available on the Library’s YouTube channel, social media, and website, as well as the RAILS My Library Is... website.

3D Printer. Image credit: Altadena Library.

Recommendations for Makerspaces During a Pandemic

Posted on December 4, 2020

The COVID-19 pandemic has radically changed how patrons and library staff utilize and learn in makerspaces or within their maker communities. Beyond topics of public health and politics, this pandemic has shown the importance of the skills and sense of community that one may gain in makerspaces. A perfect example is masks and other PPE supplies.