5 Picture Books I Get Nostalgic Over

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5 Picture Books I Get Nostalgic Over 

Source: Carissa Rogers

For those who aren't aware, November is a popular month for reading and writing with month long celebrations like National Novel Writing Month (or NaNoWriMo, for short) and National Picture Book Month (or NPBM, for short). 

For the sake of this post, I'm focusing on NPBM. While it might seem self-explanatory, this month dedicated to picture books because they are just as important as a college textbook is. Picture books are typically the first books a child's exposed to; it's the start of literacy journey! For more information, visit the link that will take you to their website.

Believe me when I say how hard it was to narrow the number of my favorite picture books down to only six. So, without anymore delay, here they are....

1. Love You Forever by Robert Munsch 

Source: Amazon

I chose this book because...  

As a child, I loved this book because I thought it was cute; but the more I read it over the years, I realized just how it accurately describes what it means to be a parent: the struggles and joys and everything else in-between and the realization and understanding when the child becomes a parent themselves. 

Why it's memorable:  

It's a (not-so) subtle reminder of how much I must appreciate all the things, big to small, my parents do for me. Within in the next ten years, I will most likely be in their place being a parent myself. They set and continue to set a good example for me.

2. Chrysanthemum by Kevin Henkes 

Source: Amazon

I chose this book because...

If you can recall from my post about how books changed my life, I disclosed that growing up I felt a little weird and different from the rest of my peers. I subconsciously connected and identified with Chrysanthemum. She felt shunned by her peers because of her name, but with the help of her teacher, she realize that she loved her name, no matter what anyone said. For me, it was finding others who loved books and reading as much as I did.

Why it's memorable:

It's a reminder that there are people out there who are going to pick on you and try to tear you down, telling you can't do it. The ones we need to listen to are the Mrs. Delphinium Twinkle's of the world who tell us to have faith and self-confidence in yourself. It's an empowering message. 

3. Elephant and Piggie books - specifically We Are In A Book - by Mo Willems 

Source: Amazon

I chose this book because... 

The obvious reason why I chose this book is that it's about, well, a book, but that's not my only reason. What's different is that it engages the readers by speaking about them [the reader] directly. Combine that with the cheeky humor and unlikely best friends Gerald and Piggie, and you get a fantastically unique book about the truth about books and reading.

Why it's memorable:

Well, as a big fan of books and reading, this is hands-down a must-read. It's the unique and direct approach to include and address the reader's importance in this story and reading in general. The ultimate meaning behind this book is telling us is that while the story might end, it stays with a person forever.  

4. Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day by Judith Viorst 

Source: Amazon

I chose this book because... 

It's a refreshing pleasure to read about a "real" boy, and by that, I mean honest and isn't afraid to show the metaphorical warts. And who wouldn't be mad when nothing seems to be going right, when one bad thing happens right after another? Viorst perfect described what's like to be a kid who's having a day with the odds not in their favor.

Why it's memorable:

I would consider this book to be a timeless "must-read". Bad days happen to us all, days when the world is seemingly against use, no matter the age; that's why it's timeless. I highly recommend to anyone having a bad day to sit down and read this book; that's why it's a must-read". Because just like Alexander, you'll learn to appreciate life in a different way that you might not have before.

5. Oh, The Places You'll Go by Dr. Seuss

Source: Amazon

I chose this book because... 

How could I have a list of picture books and not include at least one Dr. Seuss classic? But there's more to the reason why I chose this particular Dr. Seuss classic. This book describes what the future looks like: personal success, potential, setbacks, and how to overcome those obstacles. Dr. Seuss uses this book to tell the young minds, from preschool to high school and beyond, that future isn't always pretty, but believe in yourself and your capability and you'll go far.  

Why it's memorable:

It's focused on the future and telling the young minds that they have what it takes to be successful inside them. This is extremely important. Why? It's those young minds who will be leading the next generation. Continually nurture their minds now, and the results are sure to be world-changing.

Did I miss your favorite picture book? Let me know in the comments!

Stay tuned for my next post! 

Academic Libraries Are A Changin'

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Ways Libraries Are Transforming 

Source: Kiama Library

If you follow me on Twitter, you may have noticed I frequently use the hashtag "LibrariesTransform". Some of you may also wonder what I'm referencing and/or meaning by using it. And this post will give you a crash course on the Libraries Transform initiative.

What is it?

First things first: what is it? According to the Libraries Transform website, it is a campaign initiated by the American Library Association, or ALA, "designed to increase public awareness of the value, impact and services provided by libraries and library professionals." 

Okay, so what does that mean? The main idea is "libraries today are less about what they have for people and more about what they do for and with people" (Libraries Transform).

"That's cool, in all, Melissa, but how exactly are they going to achieve it?" I have your answer. There are three key components to this campaign (Libraries Transform):

1. Provocative branding (“Because…” statements) that surprise and catch attention of target audiences. 
2. Libraries Transform website. 
3. National, state and local implementation strategies and tactics. 

 Example of provocative branding:

Source: @HSUHuieLibrary on Twitter

What are the trends in libraries transforming?

There are many trends that relevant to libraries. Too many for me to list and explain all 23 trends (and counting), but I will highlight three. For the full list, click here. 

• Maker Movement: 

• It's about "makerspaces or hackerspaces provide places in the community where individuals can gather, use shared equipment, and learn" (Maker Movement - ALA). 

• Unplugged: 

• Libraries are taking the perceptions of libraries being quiet places and "marketing at least some space in their buildings as places to unplug, concentrate, and focus" (Unplugged - Libraries Transform).

• This means what was previously called "quiet reading places" is now being called "unplug zones" or "digital escape spaces" (Unplugged - Libraries Transform).

• Fandom:  

• This trend "provides opportunities to explore, celebrate and gather around a particular creative work, team or trend" (Fandom - Libraries Transform).   

• "It's often associated with science fiction and fantasy but fandom can encompass anything that generates a devoted base of followers" (Fandom - Libraries Transform).

A6: Any book, tech tool, or gadget that causes Ss to wonder! Libraries are for Ss to transform "I wonder? Into "I know." #whatisschool pic.twitter.com/FpsFikeJ7n

— Stony Evans (@stony12270) September 29, 2016

How academic libraries are adapting?

To continue using the above trends, here are real examples of each.

• Maker Movement:

• An example is the Makerspace in Rod Library, University of Northern Iowa. It's free and open to the public, but it is reservable. It's "designed for collaborative building projects, maker meetings, and arts and crafts projects" (Makerspace - Rod Library). 

•  Unplugged: 

• This example also comes from the Rod Library at University of Northern Iowa. It's the noise levels on the different floors: the higher you go, the quieter the noise level is on that floor. Noise level by floors: 1st, medium; 2nd, high; 3rd, medium; and 4th, low.

•  Fandom: 

• An example of this can be seen at Temple Libraries, Temple University. The Paskow Science Fiction Collection features access to "rare books, manuscripts, fanzines and memorabilia, along with the personal papers of several science fiction and fantasy writers" (Fandom - Libraries Transform).

Source: @HevWam on Twitter

Why does this matter?

So, now that you completed my crash course on the Libraries Transform initiative, you might be wondering why does this matter?

I'm not going to cite any sources with this answer. I'm going to give you my opinion that's backed-up with all the experience from working in libraries since I turned 16. 

It matters because libraries need to find their place in a digitally and technologically-oriented world. This means more than just adding a few computers and Kindles to circulation. Libraries are innovating, evolving into a place that combines technology, societal trends in the world, among others, while still keeping the library in the traditional sense. To be honest, libraries are completely acing it.

What ways to do you see your library transforming?

Stay tuned for my next post!

Top 6 Must See Academic Libraries In The U.S.

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Top 6 Must See Academic Libraries In The U.S.

Source: Lyman Beacher Brooks Library at Norflok State University

It's no secret how much I love the Rod Library. When I did a search for (other) "must see academic libraries in the U.S.," I started oooo-ing and ahhh-ing at the beauty of other college libraries around the country. 

I found many libraries and it was hard for me to narrow down the list to six, but these are the ones I've mentally added to my "libraries to visit" list.

6. George Peabody Library

 Interior - Matthew Petroff via Wikimedia Commons

Location: Johns Hopkins University - Baltimore, Maryland

Why It Caught My Eye: On the outside (not shown) it might look like your "typical" library, the interior is jaw-dropping beautiful. The lighting and design are perfect for the more classic look.  

Fun Fact: It's actually a popular wedding venue in the Baltimore-area. (Source: The 16 Coolest College Libraries In The Country - Business Insider) 

5. Uris Library

Source: eflon via Wikimedia Commons

Location: Cornell University - Ithaca, New York

Why It Caught My Eye: This reading room is just gorgeous. When I picture of a library, this is exactly what I picture with the metal walkways and swirl designs.

Fun Fact: This library, named after Cornell's first president, is nicknamed the "Harry Potter" library and is a popular study spot (unsurprisingly). (Source: The 16 Coolest College Libraries In The Country - Business Insider) 

4. Geisel Library

  

Source: O Palsson

Location: University of California, San Diego - San Diego, California

Why It Caught My Eye: The architectural design of the exterior of the library. The combination of layering the geometric shapes and the glass would make it a perspective artist's favorite subject.

Fun Fact: It is named in honor of Audrey and Theodor Geisel (also known as Dr. Seuss) who frequently donated to it throughout their lifetime. (Source: The 16 Coolest College Libraries In The Country - Business Insider) 

3. Beinecke Rare Book and Manuscript Library

  

Source: Lauren Manning

Location: Yale University - New Haven, Connecticut 

Why It Caught My Eye: Believe it or not, it was actually the collection of books that pulled me. Sure the semi-transparent stone wall is pretty amazing, but the rare-ness of the books there caught my eye first.

Fun Fact: Housing approximately 500,000 rare books and manuscripts, the library's most prominent book is a complete Gutenberg Bible displayed permanently in the lobby. (Source: The 16 Coolest College Libraries In The Country - Business Insider)

2. James B. Hunt Jr. Library

Source: AP Photo/Allen Breed

Location: North Carolina State University - Raleigh, North Carolina

Why It Caught My Eye: It's the open space and uniquely shaped furniture and book shelves. It gives it a subtle modern look to it. 

Fun Fact:  This library has two 3-D printers and a robotic book retrieval and storage system which has access to up to 2 million volumes. (Source: The 16 Coolest College Libraries In The Country - Business Insider)

1. Linderman Library

Source: The 50 Most Amazing College Libraries - College Rank

Location: Lehigh University - Bethlehem, Pennsylvania

Why It Caught My Eye: The circular design is beautiful. And the glass-stained dome (not pictured) is what brings the interior together.

Fun Fact: Copies of Charles Darwin's "Origin of Species" and James John Audubon's four volumes of "Birds of America" are just two of the many prestigious and rare books their rare book collection. (Source: The 16 Coolest College Libraries In The Country - Business Insider)

Bonus: Rod Library

Source: Melissa Curtis

Location: University of Northern Iowa - Cedar Falls, Iowa

Why It Caught My Eye: The friendly and helpful staff and the design of the overhang.

Fun Fact: It houses the Book Bistro, which is quite famous for its grilled cheese and other assorted food items.

 

 Did I miss your library? 

If so, let me know in the comments!

5 Reasons Why I Love Working At Rod Library

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5 Reasons Why I Love Working At Rod Library

Source: Rod Library @ UNI - Facebook page

If someone told me I would be working 2 jobs at the library on campus as an incoming freshman at UNI, I would have just stare blankly at them and wonder if they were mentally okay. Seriously, I would have.

Ironically enough, when I came to campus for orientation, I didn't opt for the library tour because I was short on time on that particular day. It wasn't until later that I realized the library would be a great place for me to work since I have a slight obsession with reading and books. I applied, got an interview, offered the job, and I readily accepted. 

In the time I've been working here (and at UNI), this place has become a second home to me or a home away from home. When classes or life or college in general got overwhelming, I could always come to work and escape life for awhile and immerse myself in an accepting place.

1. My Co-Workers

A few of my fellow co-workers and I at wedding this past weekend.

Source: Hayley McCoy

It seems like most of the time you complain about your co-workers, but that's not true for me. They are some of the most important people in my life. The people I work with are just as strange as I can be sometimes which is why I can be my weird self around them and they accept me without judgement (well sometimes they judge me). Library crew for life!

2. The Staff

Mr. O'Lantern just received his interlibrary loan from Cindy. If Rod Library doesn't have the item you need, stop in talk to ILL staff and they make sure you get it and fast! #RodLibrary puts #studentsfirst 🎃

A photo posted by Rod Library (@rodlibrary) on Oct 17, 2016 at 2:19pm PDT

"Aren't the staff and your co-workers one in the same," you wonder. To some, they are, but for me, they aren't. They are an inspiration to me to always be willing to learn to do new things, and maybe have influenced me to be thinking about pursuing a library science degree. 

3.  Getting To Help Patrons

I talked to middle schoolers about how awesome the Makerspace is.
Source: Rod Library @ UNI

Every time I work it's always a new adventure with challenges, but what trumps that is getting to help patrons in any way I can, whether it's finding a book, helping with a computer or printing problem, or anything else they might need. Sometimes I don't know the answer or aren't able to help them, and I'm not afraid ask a supervisor for assistance.

4. Working With Books

A photo posted by Rod Library (@rodlibrary) on Jan 6, 2016 at 8:02am PST

It just makes sense for someone who loves reading as much as I do to work in a library. One of my favorite parts is when someone checks out a book that I've already read or want to read; it's a start of great conversation. What's even better is when the person says that they are re-reading it, and I say something to the effect, "I know, right? It's just that good of a book."

5. The Welcoming Feel

A photo posted by Rod Library (@rodlibrary) on Jun 24, 2016 at 8:14am PDT

To me, walking into Rod Library is like coming home. Now as poetic as that sounds, it's true. Rod Library is a place where people can and go to interact, learn, connect, and have fun together. There's something for everyone from the extremely studious students—like the quiet 4th floor or study rooms—or the visitors and alumni—visitor cards with access to checking out books and using the computer—or the students wanting to have some fun—like Rod Con (mini comic con) and other events.

And of course, the therapy dogs in the library during finals week are awesome, too. 

What do you love about the Rod Library?

 

Show Rod Library some love on social media and use #ILoveRod Library.

Stay tuned for my next post! 

Crowdfunding: An Innovative Way To Fundraise For College Libraries

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Crowdfunding: An Innovative Way To Fundraise For College Libraries

Source: Information Technology News - UNI

You might be wondering, "What's crowdfunding and why makes it innovative?" Crowdfunding is "a way to raise funds for a specific cause or project by asking a large number of people to donate money, usually in small amounts, and usually during a relatively short period of time, such as a few months," according to GrantSpace: a service of Foundation Center.

With the help of social networks, crowdfunding is completely online which makes it easy for people to get involved with a cause or project and share the word via their social networks (GrantSpace: a service of Foundation Center).

Chris Cox and Rod Library's Crowdfunding Campaign

Chris Cox, Dean of Rod Library - Source: From the Dean - Rod Library

I was lucky enough to get an interview with Chris Cox to talk about Rod Library's crowdfunding campaign. 

Background on Cox

He is the Dean of Library Services at the University of Northern Iowa. His roles include determining the strategic direction for the library, managing the library's budget, promoting the library and encouraging Rod Library's staff, faculty, and student assistants (like me!) to raise up to their immense potential.

Crowdfunding: what is it? 

According to Cox, crowdfunding is reaching out to a larger audience to raise money to accomplish a goal or project. The KickStarter platform or through social media are a couple of resources one could use to complete a campaign of this nature. 

Cox believes there is a difference between tradition fundraising—which is done with a few large donations—and crowdfunding—which is done through a multitude of small and independent gifts. 

"The benefits are that you get to reach out to a new group of potential donors. The drawback - that you need to have a project which resonates with donors or you won't be able to meet your fundraising goals," said Cox.

Northern Iowa Jones and the Quest for the Surface Hub

Rod Library launched crowdfunding campaign of their very own to purchase a Microsoft Surface Hub. This collaborative tool was chosen "because it offered the opportunity to provide a new collaborative technology to students and faculty," and the library didn't have $7,500 to purchase one on their own.

Cox explained the next few steps for this 'quest'. "The library put together a planning committee to work with the University Foundation to put the campaign together. We used UNI's crowdfunding platform, PawPrint, and developed a marketing plan and video to reach out to prospective donors." As for the video, the planning committee chose a whimsical and humorous approach for the campaign rather than an upfront and direct approach—the final idea was a parody of Indiana Jones.

For your enjoyment, here is the cheeky promotional video. (You might see a familiar face.)

Northern Iowa Jones' Successful Quest 

They needed to raise $7,500 in 30 days. Quite an ambitious feat for some, but not for Rod Library and its faithful supporters. They instead raised $8,622, which surpassed the goal by over $1,000, and met in 29 days. Almost 100 donors contributed with "an average donation of $66.40." 

"We have since purchased the Hub, which lives in library room 287. We are one of the first libraries in the country to have one. In recognition of the campaign, Rod Library won the 2016 Gale Cengage Learning Financial Development Award [administrated by the American Library Association]," said Cox, when asked about the campaign's success.

Future Crowdfunding Campaigns?

When asked the question about what changes he would like to see with future campaigns, Cox said, "I'd like to involve UNI students and faculty at the start so we know we have a compelling project for them to fund. Also, I'd like to start planning earlier - a lot of prep goes into to running a successful campaign."

It Takes A Community...

Creating a crowdfunding campaign is no easy feet. Just ask Chris Cox, and I did. "It took a lot of work to generate the money - over 10,000 emails, 1,000 postcards, and lots of social media posts. It wasn't as easy as simply having a good idea and putting it out there, which is what many people expect from crowdfunding," explained Cox.

Cox went on to say that even though the many hours of hard work and dedication, he believes crowdfunding is beneficial way to fundraise. He gave me this statistic: "of the 99 donors, 72 or 73% of them gave to the Rod Library for the first time. This is phenomenal and wouldn't have happened with a traditional annual giving campaign."

From A Dean To Another:

"Academic libraries are just beginning to scratch the surface of the potential of crowdfunding. I think it's a great, creative way to reach out to new, potential donors," said Cox.

 Be sure to stop by Rod Library, room 287 to check the Hub out!

Stay tuned for next week's post!

Sources:  

GrantSpace: a service of Foundation Center 

Information Technology News - UNI

Interview with Chris Cox

Books Changed My Life, and They Can Change Yours, Too

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Books Changed My Life, And They Can Change Yours, Too

Source: Melissa Curtis

I want to start this post off with a little story. It's the story of how my love for reading bloomed. 

In second or third grade, it was discovered that I had trouble reading; I wasn't up to the reading level with my other peers. My mom sent me to a local academic learning center for a summer to help improve my reading skills. It worked, to say the least, if you would talk to my family and friends. 

That summer was a turning point in my life and I didn't even realize it at the time. That summer is when I developed an addiction to books and reading and all they can give me.

You might be wondering, "Well, that's nice, but what's that got to do with marketing college libraries through the use of photography, design, and creative writing?" And I impulsively want to simply say that it doesn't, but that would be a lie.

Wait, what? 

Here's why. In my Advertising and Promotion class, I learned that one of three factors to keep in mind when specifying a target market are behavioral variables, specifically the consumer's past experience with the product or brand. While my goal isn't to specify a target audience, I want to tell about my past experience with reading and books and how they changed my life and how they can change yours, too.

Books gave (and continue to give) me... 

Me An Escape

Source: milena mihaylova

I didn't realize how much of an escape books and reading gave me until about middle school when the cliques form and the opinions of your peers matter (more than than they should). Loving books and reading as much as I did, I felt my peers thought I was weird for choosing a book over a basketball or volleyball. Where else do I turn to during that awkward phase? To my books for an escape from a reality where I felt like an outcast.

New Perspectives And Insights

Source: Gabriel Kronisch

There's no good way to explain this one except for this way. With reading many books from a variety of genres and even those that I probably wouldn't have chosen for myself, there comes a sense of seeing the world in a different way. It's almost as if you wake up and the world you once knew is completely different and you almost don't recognize it. You're given new perspectives and insights with each book you read.

Hope

 

Source: Taymaz Valley

Let's face it. The world definitely has its problems. Some days I wonder if there's any hope left in the world. There is. Books have hope and can inspire. An obvious example of the quite depressing divorce rate makes me wonder, "Is there no love left in this world?" Where do I turn to? Books. Even though it may not be real or sometimes, realistic, the stories inspire the possibility of that kind of love existing. And it's that notion of possibility that helps me and many others and not just with the idea of love.  

A Way To Connect

Source: Didriks

Referencing the dreaded middle school years when I felt like an outcast for loving reading, I found the silver-lining. Actually, it was more like I discovered that my love for books and reading gave me a way to connect with others loved reading and books as much as I did. No longer did I feel like an outcast.  

To sum it up:

Without books and realizing how much they've impacted my life, I wouldn't be working in the Rod Library at the circulation desk and (eventually) becoming a public relations student assistant for them. 

Without books, my life would be completely different.

How have books impacted your life? Which books have impacted your life?

Let me know in the comments below!

Stay tuned for next week's post! 

Why College Libraries Need A Learning Commons

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Why College Libraries Need A Learning Commons

Source: Rod Library @ UNI - Flickr

You might be wondering, "What is a learning commons?" According to the American Library Association's March 2014 issue of College & Research Libraries News, learning commons is "a place where students practice collaborative learning to turn information into knowledge, each unit has strengthened its ability to enhance student learning."

In the fall of 2014, Rod Library, at the University of Northern Iowa, transformed the main floor into a learning commons. A glimpse can be seen in the picture above. The purpose of the Learning Commons is as follows: "is a vibrant, comfortable social space equipped with 21st-century tools, technology, and services that support students’ academic success." Rod Library's Learning Commons' motto is Connect, Create, Innovate, and Succeed.

Ways to Connect: 

Source: Book Bistro Area - Rod Library

• Attend events, like Rod Con, at Rod Library.
• Work on group projects, meet with friends, professors, etc..
• Relax in comfortable seating options.
• Adaptable collaborative stations are available.
• Enjoy Starbucks coffee or a grilled cheese sandwich around at the Book Bistro.

Ways to Create:

Source: Makerspace - Rod Library

• Digital Media Hub, powered by the Production House.
• 3-D printer for use.
• Talk to a Media Consultant for any technology questions.
• Production Rooms equipped to add in any producing needs.
• Technology to check out, such as: digital cameras, video cameras, lighting kits, laptops, and more.

Ways to Innovate: 

Source: ScholarSpace - Rod Library

• Makerspace, located in room 286, houses the 3-D printer, sewing machines, Legos, fabric, various types of glues, and more. It's open to the students, faculty, and staff, as well as the public.
• ScholarSpace, room 301, a place to hold professional meetings, presentations/performances, and class sessions.
• Projection/Whiteboard wall, located next the Tech Desk.
• 3-D printing and scanning.
• Learning Commons Exhibition Wall, located across from the Dichotomy.

 Ways to Succeed:

Source: Need help? AskUs! - Rod Library

• Research Librarians answer questions at the Research Help Desk Monday-Thursday from 12-4 p.m.
• AskUs! chat is available for any research questions.
• Tutoring courtesy of the A-Team on Sunday nights from 6-8 p.m. in room 287.
• Printers on every floor, scanners, and copiers available.
• Media Consultants for assistance with software like the Adobe Creative Suite and others, technology, production rooms, and more.

Recent Twitter Poll

I recently sent out a Twitter poll, asking people what students, staff, faculty, and the public love about the Rod Library. The poll ran for a week. Here are the results:

What do you love about the @RodLibrary? #collegelibrary #collegelibrarymarketing #MarketingMonday #marketing #DatewithRod #ILoveRodLibrary

— Melissa Curtis (@SnapsMacsBooks) September 20, 2016

The results go hand in hand with each other. Apparently they like the Learning Commons and all it's features.

What's your favorite aspect of learning commons? Leave it in the comments below.

Stay tuned for next week's post! 

Sources:  

"Exploring the learning commons" - ALA's College & Research Libraries News 

Learning Commons - Rod Library 

Spotlight on Learning Commons - Rod Library