North Texas Regional Library System

Librarian Live Podcast Episodes

Librarian Live is a series of podcasts covering a wide range of topics of interest to the library community. The intent of the project is to provide continuing education to librarians, to discover expertise that exists in the library community, and to introduce librarians to podcasting.

The FY 2010 season of Librarian Live is produced in partnership by the North Texas Regional Library System, the Texas State Library and Archives Commission, the Northeast Texas Library System, the Alamo Area Library System, and the Abilene Library Consortium. Librarian Live is funded in part by the Texas Library and Archives Commission and the Institute of Museum and Library Services.

all episodes

The Disability Information & Referral Center - August 23, 2010
      Dina Abramson, the Disability Information & Referral Coordinator for the Texas State Library and Archives Commission's Talking Book Program, talks with us about the Disability Information & Referral Center.
      For more information on the Disability Information & Referral Center (the DIRC), visit the website at http://www.tsl.state.tx.us/tbp/dirc.html.
      Listeners may contact Dina Abramson with questions by telephone at 1-800-252-9605 (toll-free in Texas) or 512-463-5458, or by email at tbp@tsl.state.tx.us.

Bilingual Storytime - August 2, 2010
Kathryn Sturtz of AALS, speaks with Amanda Hernandez, librarian assistant with the San Antonio Public Library childrens department, about insights and tips to bilingual storytime.

The Library Science Collection: A Librarian's Library    - July 26, 2010
      Anne Ramos, Library Science Collection Librarian for the Texas State Library and Archives Commission, describes the Library Science Collection and services. She encourages use of the professional library resources for learning, decision making and creative growth by fielding questions such as:
      - What is the Library Science Collection and what does it offer?
      - What are some of the frequent information requests that you receive?
      - How does someone request assistance?
      - How would someone go about visiting the Library Science Collection?
      - Are there any new additions to the collection that you would like to highlight?
      - What do you think is the most underutilized but valuable asset in the LSC?
      For more information, including links to the online catalog, visit the Library Science Collection web page: http://www.tsl.state.tx.us/ld/lsc/about.html
      You can also view new titles from the Library Science Collection HERE.
      Listeners may contact Anne Ramos with subject requests for information, requests to borrow materials, or general and specific inquiries. Contact Anne by telephone 1-800-252-9386 (toll-free in Texas) or 512-463-5494 or by email aramos@tsl.state.tx.us.

Futuring in Libraries - July 20, 2010
Adam Wright, Executive Director of North Texas Library Partners, discusses a presentation he has developed together with Mike Baldwin, Director of the Benbrook Library District on the future of libraries. They have a different perspective on long range planning – combining thought experiments with concepts from science fiction to get ideas of what libraries might look like in the future.

Adding Ebooks to Your Library's Collection - June 29, 2010
Linda Evans from the Arlington Public Library tells about adding ebooks from two different vendors to the library's collection.

Cross Plains Public Library: A Best Small Library Finalist - June 28, 2010
Cross Plains Public Library director Linda Burns talks with us about her library, her community, and what made the Cross Plains Public Library a finalist for Library Journal's 2010 Best Small Library in America Award. Hear about the Robert E. Howard collection, the library's new Children's Discover Center, and more!

Creative Programming for Teens during the Summertime - June 7, 2010
Jennifer Velasquez, the manager of the Youthwired Division of the San Antonio Public Library, discusses some very creative programming ideas for teens during the summer time.

What is the Texas Workskills Development in Libraries Program? - May 18, 2010
Adam Wright explains the Texas Workskills Development in Libraries program, which has a website at http://www.TWDL.org This program helps librarians assist their patrons with developing job search skills and computer skills. The website has a step-by-step guide to finding free information on these topics and a list of free workshops that teach people how to use these tools. Members of the public who don't have easy access to a computer or the Internet are encouraged to visit their local public library to use the free public computers to access the TWDL.org website.

Pros and Cons of Self-Publishing - May 17, 2010
Paul Waak, a consultant at NTRLS, discusses self-publishing and other recent trends in the publishing industry. Self-publishing can be scary if you don't know what you're doing, but Paul knows of resources to go to for helpful advice. He points out pitfalls to watch out for and he highlights the additional services a publisher normally provides that a self-publishing author will have to handle himself.

Technology Trends in Libraries - May 4, 2010
Chris Peterson from Amigos discusses the latest directions in library technology, including the increased use of software as a service, open source software, the rise of mobile internet devices, and location-based services. How will libraries adapt their services to reflect these trends?

TexShare Resources for Home-schoolers - April 26, 2010
As a follow up to their program at the TLA 2010 Conference called TexShare Databases for Home-schoolers, Mark Stewart, Reference Librarian at Montgomery County Library System and Russlene Waukeshon, TexShare Database Coordinator at the Texas State Library and Archives Commission, talk about some key points from the presentation.

View Mark's presentation and bibliography here for more information or contact Russlene at 512.463.7402 or rwaukechon@tsl.state.tx.us..

Introduction to TWDL - April 8, 2010
Carolyn Davidson from NTRLS explains the new program Texas Workforce Development in Libraries, or TWDL, which provides resource to libraries for helping people improve their computer skills or look for jobs online. The program includes face-to-face workshops in libraries across North Texas, and online resources at www.TWDL.org.

ProCon Latte - Firefox Addon Web Filter - April 5, 2010
Rodney Greensage, TANG consultant for the Alamo Area Library System, discusses a free web content filter available through Mozilla's Firefox browser.

Accessibility Fairs - Lessons Learned - March 23, 2010
Patt Dreyer, who works with people with disabilities at Easter Seals and the Texas Workforce Commission, was involved in the Bedford Public Library's recent Low Vision Fairs. She discusses the impact the fairs had on the community and their plans for continuing the program.

Guestgate - Wireless gateway for Public Libraries - March 1, 2010
Rodney Greensage, network consultant for the Alamo Area Library System, discusses a wireless network device that can help you better manage your library wireless experience for you, your staff and your patrons.

Kim Doner, 2010 Texas Reading Club Artist   - February 22, 2010
     Kim Doner, artist for the 2010 Texas Reading Club, shares about illustrating books for children and young adults and developing the Texas Reading Club artwork.
     View Kim's Texas Reading Club artwork at http://www.tsl.state.tx.us/ld/projects/trc/2010/index.html, and visit her web site at http://www.kimdoner.com/ to see more of her artwork.
     Kim will be presenting at the Texas Reading Club program at the TLA Conference on Thursday, April 15, at 2:00 p.m.

Comparing Office Software Suites - February 15, 2010
Carolyn Davidson Brewer, Assistant Director of North Texas Library Partners, discusses three different suites of office software, including comments from Jesse Ephraim from the Roanoke Public Library, Shaun Seibel from the University of North Texas, and Todd Humble from the North Richland Hills Public Library. You might want to use all three, choosing the one best suited to each different situation. For more information, see the accompanying article at NTRLS.org.

The Literacy Program at Rockwall Public - How We Did It - February 8, 2010

Book talking techniques for teens - February 1, 2010
Amy Cline of the Alamo Area Library System discusses ideas on book talking techniques targeted towards teens.

E-rate: The Basics   - January 25, 2010
     Henry Stokes, Library Technology Consultant and State E-Rate Coordinator for the Texas State Library and Archives Commission, provides basic information about the E-rate program and answers such questions as:
      * What is E-rate?
      * Why is it a good idea for a public library to apply for E-rate?
      * What are the basic steps to participate in E-rate?
      * What is the E-rate schedule like?
   Two online resources mentioned in this podcast for more information are:
http://www.universalservice.org/sl/applicants/ (for the official steps involved in the E-rate application process) and
http://www.tsl.state.tx.us/ld/funding/howto.html (for information on technology plans)
   Listeners are encouraged to contact Henry Stokes with questions related to E-rate at hstokes@tsl.state.tx.us or 512-463-6624.

Supporting Your Support Staff - January 18, 2010
Caroline Morrow, Circulation Clerk at the Flower Mound Public Library, describes some of the ways the library management shows appreciation and provides a supportive environment for the staff.

Creative Display Ideas - January 4, 2010
Amy Cline, assistant coordinator for the Alamo Area Library System, discusses some ideas on creative display ideas for your library.

Outcomes Based Evaluation for Libraries Explained   - December 28, 2009
     Join Jennifer Peters, TSLAC's LSTA/Texas Reads Grants Administrator, as she explains why libraries should evaluate their programs and one technique for doing so called Outcomes Based Evaluation or OBE. To find out more about the concepts Jennifer discusses, she recommends the following resources:
      Recent December Archived webinar on OBE: http://www.tsl.state.tx.us/ld/workshops/webinars/
      Measuring Program Outcomes: A Practical Approach. United Way of America, 1996.
      Rubin, Rhea Joyce. Demonstrating Results: Using Outcome Measurement in Your Library. ALA, 2006.
      Shaping Outcomes. Online course offered by Indiana University. http://www.shapingoutcomes.org/

Doing a Job Fair at Your Library - December 21, 2009
Chris Dobson, Supervisor of Adult Services at the Irving Public Library, shares secrets for hosting a successful job fair at your library.

Incorporating Music into Library Childrens Programs - December 7, 2009
Amy Cline, from the Alamo Area Library System discusses some ideas on incorporating music into your library childrens programs.

Continuity: Carrying On When Staffing Changes Occur - November 27, 2009
John Pecoraro, Coordinator of the Big Country Library System, discusses developing a Continuity Book to ensure essential services will continue when staffing changes occur in small libraries.

Staff Conduct Policies with Julie Todaro - part 2 - November 23, 2009
Join Dawn Vogler for part two of her talk with Julie Todaro on staff conduct policies. In part one of this podcast, Julie discussed her famous LAMA article called, "Reasonable Expectation of Adult Behavior," introduced the concept of staff conduct policies and then talked about when a manager might consider a policy like this for their organization. In this episode, we talk with Julie to find out the specific categories managers might want to address in their staff conduct policies. They also cover some issues around how employees dress for work at the library and whether or not such a policy can help clarify certain employer expectations. View Julie's handout on staff conduct policies here.

Diversifying the Non-reviewed Collection: - November 19, 2009
Carolyn Davidson Brewer explains how to diversify your collection and reach more segments of your community by including non-reviewed materials. She has some tips on how to identify materials worth purchasing when a review is not easily available.

Demographic Studies: Improve Services to Your Community - November 9, 2009
Two librarians in Northeast Texas describe how a demographic study helps them provide better service to their communities.

Books for Boys and Home Schooled Children - November 2, 2009
Kathleen Baxter, children literature consultant, talks about books that can appeal to boys and to home schooled children.

New Technology and Patron Security - October 27, 2009
As technology has advanced, security has become more difficult to control. Jesse Ephraim, Director of the Roanoke Public Library, discusses things librarians can do to help ensure their patrons' security, anonymity, and privacy.

Staff Conduct Policies, Part 1 with Julie Todaro - October 26, 2009
Join Julie Todaro, a consultant in management and public services issues for all types of libraries, as she discusses implementing a staff conduct policy in your library. Julie manages an academic library, has worked in public libraries and has her all level school library certification. She has a great deal of management experience and has conducted workshops for many organizations for the past 35 years, including for TSLAC's own Small Library Management Training Program for the past 20 years. Every cycle, in our basic management workshop, staff conduct policy discussions result in lots of questions from managers. In part one of this two-part podcast (look for part 2 to appear on this site in November 23rd), Julie discusses her famous LAMA article called, "Reasonable Expectation of Adult Behavior," introduces the concept of staff conduct policies and then talks about when a manager might consider one for their organization. View Julie's handout on staff conduct policies here.

Using Discover Stations in Public Libraries - October 12, 2009
Librarians at Muenster and Van Alstyne Texas discuss their experiences using Discover Stations to provide public access to the Internet and desktop applications.

Advanced Google Search - October 5, 2009
Kathryn Sturtz, coordinator of the Alamo Area Library System, discusses search techniques using Advanced Google.

Breaking Up with Dewey - September 28, 2009
Rachel Fewell, Collection Development Manager from Anythink Libraries in Adams County, Colorado, discusses their library district's breakup with the Dewey Decimal System. They recently underwent a complete brand overhaul to become Anythink Libraries with a new classification system called WordThink. WordThink is based on the retail model classification system known as BISAC. Learn more about their transformation away from Dewey towards a more customer- focused collection in this interview.

Keeping Your Book Club Fresh - September 21, 2009
The Summerglen Branch of the Fort Worth Public Library has strong book clubs for both fiction and nonfiction readers. L. G. Swift and Laura de la Taz share some of their techniques for keeping their book clubs fresh and active.

Romance - September 7, 2009
     Kathryn Sturtz of the Alamo Area Library System discusses the topic of Romance. Some points outlined is as follow:
          1. What is Romance?
          2. What are some genres of Romance?
          3. Some examples of Romance authors.
     There is a special emphasis on seniors and young adult romances within this podcast.

No Cost - Big Impact Friends / PTA Program - September 4, 2009
     Learn about a fun, piece-of-cake, no cost Recycle-a-Book program which benefits school children and community organizations.

Using the TexShare Databases -August 31, 2009
     Carolyn Davidson Brewer shares some tips about the TexShare Databases, including the difference between the Internet resources you find with a regular search engine and the peer-reviewed, editorial-controlled material in the databases. Carolyn gives advice about which databases to start with and how to learn the search interface for each one.

Libraries Going Green -August 1, 2009
     There are things a library can do to become more environmentally responsible, without having to move to a new building. Carolyn Davidson Brewer, Assistant Director at NTLP, shares ideas for libraries seeking green alternatives. For more information, see www.greenlibraries.org

Phishing -July 13, 2009
     Rodney Greensage of the Alamo Area Library System speaks about what is Phishing and covers the following terms on the subject:
     1. What is Phishing?
     2. Why is it important for library staff to know about this?
     3. How you can inform your patrons about its dangers.
     4. What to look for/Tips to avoid being a victim.

Library Services for Seniors -July 1, 2009
NTLP board members Barbara Chayer, Pat Jefferson, and Ken Haas share ideas about how libraries can interact with today's active senior citizens.

Tips and Ideas for Conducting a Successful Storytime -June 8, 2009
Amy Cline, Assistant Coordinator for the Alamo Area Library System, shares some tips and ideas on how to conduct a successful story time within the library.

Book Clubs to Go -June 3, 2009
Lesley Daly, Director of the Wichita Falls Public Library, describes the library's Book Club To Go collection, which provides materials for a book discussion club packaged as a kit that patrons can check out. Each canvas bag contains multiple copies of one title, plus other materials for the discussion group.

Literacy Programs in Libraries (episode 92) -May 1, 2009
Yoko Matsumoto is Literacy Coordinator for Arlington Reads, a literacy program of the Arlington Public Library.
In this interview she shares the history of how the program developed and some advice for communities planning to start their own literacy programs.

Edubuntu in Libraries (episode 89) - April 13, 2009
      Rodney Greensage from AALS discusses the possibility of using Edubuntu in your library. Topics are:
          - What is Edubuntu
          - Why you may want to consider it for your library
          - The Pros and Cons
          - What has changed within Edubuntu

Rethinking the Reference Collection (episode 88) - March 31, 2009
      Carolyn Davidson Brewer from NTRLS has some helpful suggestions for libraries wanting to update their reference collection and offer the best service to their patrons.

Open Source Software for Libraries (episode 84) - March 9, 2009
      Rodney Greensage, an IT (TANG) Consultant for the Alamo Area Library System discusses Open Source Software for libraries. Topics covered are --What is Open Source Software --What are some pro/cons about Open Source Software --Open Source Software ideas that you may want to consider for your library.

Using Assistive Technology to Expand Library Services (episode 83) - March 2, 2009
      Nell Callison from NTLP talks to Richard-Michael Manuel, Assistive Technology Navigator for Easter Seals North Texas to get an introduction to different kinds of assistive technology. He discusses finding funding assistance to make the technology affordable and the "People First" language that is preferred when working with individuals with special needs.

The Importance of Having a Library Wireless Usage Policy (episode 80) - February 9, 2009
     Rodney Greensage, an IT (TANG) Consultant for the Alamo Area Library System discusses the following about wireless usage policies within your library:
          --Why you should have a wireless usage policy
          --Some topics that might go into the policy
          --Enforcing the policy

Forming a Teen Advisory Board (episode 79) - February 2, 2009
     The Decatur Public Library has a most successful Teen Advisory Board. Director Cecilia Hurt Barham, along with two members of the Decatur TAB, talk about how they created it and what it has accomplished.

Volunteens (episode 73) - January 26, 2009
     The Volunteen Program at the William T. Cozby Public Library in Coppell helps the library with manpower during the Summer Reading Club and provides the student volunteers with service hours for participation.

Valuing Your Library to Government Entities and to the Public (episode 75) - December 31, 2008
     Patrick Heath talks to Nell Callison from NTRLS about how to help government entities and the public become aware of the value of the library, in ways that go beyond quantitative data. Patrick Heath, the 2009-2010 President of TLA and Mayor of Boerne 1987 – 2007, will be keynote speaker at the Library Supporters Conference in Fort Worth on January 31, 2009.

Proposed Changes in ILL (episode 74) - December 30, 2008
     Kate Cordts, manager of the San Antonio Inter-Library Loan Center, talks about the upcoming proposed changes for the statewide Inter-Library Loan program.

Pa$$port$ (episode 65) - December 22, 2008
     Learn how the Whitesboro Public Library (service population 6,105) is earning $15,000+ in their first year of offering passports services. Connie Moss of NETLS interviews Library Director Virginia Garvin for program details and advice. .

Keeping It Clean (episode 60) - December 15, 2008
     The public expects to find a pleasant, clean environment in the library. In this interview Kathleen Metz Edwards, Director of the William T. Cozby Public Library in Coppell tells NETLS' Connie Moss about her secrets for keeping the library clean. Included are specific recommendations for helpful cleaning products, tools and equipment.

Return on Investment (episode 71) - December 8, 2008
     Kathryn Sturtz, from the Alamo Area Library System, speaks about the topic of Return On Investment. She utilizes a spreadsheet located at their website, which helps establish a dollar value on library services. Libraries could use that to calculate and then present that information to their funding authority.

E-government and Libraries (episode 70) - December 3, 2008
     Now that federal and state government agencies have moved many of their services online, people often use public libraries for Internet access in order to get information or fill out forms. Consequently, libraries need enough public access computers and trained personnel to meet the demand. Suzanne Sears, head of the Government Documents Department for UNT's Willis Library, discusses the issues public libraries can face when trying to serve this growing need. .

Hiring Childrens Performers (episode 67) - November 10, 2008
     Kathryn Sturtz coordinator for the Alamo Area Library System, speaks with Devo Carpenter a youth specialist with the Austin Public Library concerning childrens performers within libraries. The topics discussed include:
     - What performers look for in libraries when being hired.
     - What childrens programming can do for libraries.
     - Space and seating of children within the library during a children performance.
     - Presentation techniques during a performance.
     - Types of Props and objects used during performances.
     - Advice for librarians when looking to bring in performers.
     - Performer scheduling.

What Are Boomers Looking For? (episode 66) - November 3, 2008
     Pat Wagner from Pattern Research, Inc. is an educator, trainer, and consultant for libraries of all kinds. She recently gave a workshop for NTRLS on how to design library services and programs to appeal to the Boomer generation. Here she talks with Nell Callison about the different kinds of Boomers, how to design services targeting their needs, and how to market your programs in order to reach this audience.

Ready to Read Program (episode 64) - October 20, 2008
Suzan Nyfeler sits down with Kam McEvoy to discuss Central Texas Library System's new grant program: Ready to Read. Suzan discusses the early literacy skills that Ready to Read promotes, and the importance of outreach to parents, teachers and caregivers so that every child will be ready to read.

Weeding and the CREW Manual (episode 63) - October 13, 2008
Kathryn Sturtz from the Alamo Area Library System talks about weeding using the CREW method.

Violence in Libraries (episode 62) - October 9, 2008
     In 2004 Eva Martin, now a librarian at Fort Worth Public Library, co-authored an article examining crimes committed in and around libraries in Texas, Arizona, and New Mexico. In this interview she recounts cases where a library provided not just the location of the crime, but also the alibi, the source of information for planning the crime, or a community focal point for services that were used in the crime.
    She recommends that librarians be aware of patron behavior and document anything strange. She also refers to the advice of Carolyn Davidson Brewer on how to handle potentially violent situations at the library.
    For more on this topic, see the 2004 article by Eva Martin and Susan K. Burke. "Libraries in Communities: Expected and Unexpected Portrayals in State Case Law." Libraries & Culture 39, no. 4: 405-428.   (In Texas, you can retrieve the text of the article through the TEXShare databases.)

Multicultural Libraries (episode 61) - October 8, 2008
Just as our libraries have to respond to changes in technology, they also have to adapt to cultural changes as the demographics of our communities shift. In this interview Val Armstrong, manager of the Bachman Lake and Grauwyler Park branches of the Dallas Public Library, discusses ways to identify and respond to the needs of patrons in a culturally diverse community.

TSLAC Updates (episode 59) - September 29, 2008
In this episode you'll hear an excerpt from Chris Jowaisis's presentation to CTLS members at our fall membership meeting Friday, Sept 26. Chris lets us know about the Texas State Library's Budget, proposed changes to the Library Systems Act to allow multitype membership, TSLAC renovations, and an upcoming Connectivity grant funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.

Recent Trends in Library Literature (episode 58) - September 8, 2008
Kathryn Sturtz , coordinator of the Alamo Area Library System, discusses recent trends in library literature. She speaks about a number of books that are available in the AALS professional collection.

Introduction to the FY2009 Season of Librarian Live

The MaintainIT Project (episode 54) - August 20, 2008
Kam McEvoy talks a bit about the MaintainIT Project, which collects and shares experiences about working with public access computing. This is a 3-year grant funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, under the supervision of TechSoup, a non-profit that matches software donations with non-profit organizations (like libraries!). MaintainIT's motto is - You don't have to reinvent the wheel -- you can learn from the experiences of other librarians that have faced the same challenges in providing robust public access to technology that you're going through. .

Working with Multiple Generations (episode 53) - August 13, 2008
Greg Anderson, President of Strategic Government Resources, Inc., was the keynote speaker at the recent Children and Youth Conference for Librarians (CYC2008.com). In this interview he gives a brief description of the four generations that are represented in the workforce today and addresses the question of how to minimize conflict when people from different generations interact using differing value systems.

Windows Steady State (episode 51) - July 24, 2008
Rodney Greensage from the Alamo Area Library System talks about Windows Steady State. This is a lock down tool for public access computers within libraries. He speaks about some of the history, staff setup features, and the pros/cons of the product.

Maintaining Public Access Computers (episode 50) - July 16, 2008
Mike Buras, IT Specialist with Central Texas Library System, Inc., joins us to discuss factors tht can keep your public access computers running smoothly.

Volunteers: A Vital Resource (episode 49) - July 8, 2008
In this interview Leanna Cowan, director of the Alvarado Public Library and member of the board of directors for the Library Foundation of North Texas (LFNT), discusses the contributions of volunteers, both in library foundations and friends groups, and in libraries themselves. Leanna also talks about upcoming events for LFNT. Look for the LFNT table at the CYC2008 conference this August.

How to Work a Room (bonus episode) - July 8, 2008
Linda Tyler Rollins offers valuable advice on how to represent your library while networking with community movers and shakers at social events. Specific topics include: where to place your name tag, being able to talk and shake hands while managing food and drink; and how to make social small talk that focuses on your library. This interview was done in conjunction with Ms. Rollins' recent Leadership Etiquette workshop for NTRLS.

Common Technical Problems (episode 47) - June 23, 2008
Rodney Greensage, IT consultant for the Alamo Area Library System, talks about two common problems that may happen within a public library network: troubleshooting tips for when you think your internet or network goes down, and how to deal with malware / spyware on computers within the library.

Stories Alive! Bringing History to Life (episode 46) - June 20, 2008
An excerpt from Judith Black's presentation at the Austin Public Library. Judith has been a featured storyteller at the National Storytelling Festival and has served as Teller-in Residence at the International Storytelling Center in Jonesboro, TN. In this presentation she emphasized that both the human details and the motivations behind characters' actions are critical in connecting an audience to the past. She also explained the role that storytelling plays in society.

Surveying Your Community (episode 45) - June 9, 2008
Maria Redburn, Library Manager of the Bedford Public Library, shares her experience using surveys, both online and printed, to gather input from library patrons.

Library Conflict Management (episode 43) - May 27, 2008
Vivienne Beckett from the Alamo Area Library System talks with Pat Wagner of Pattern Research Inc. Pat talks about concepts and tips with handling behavior and conflict management within the workplace.

Reaching our Spanish-Speaking Audience (episode 42) - May 19, 2008
Nelson Salinas from AVANCE talks about how libraries can better serve Spanish speakers. AVANCE-Austin prepares primarily Hispanic low-income children to enter preschool and elementary with skills necessary for success in school. Salinas spoke at at a recent workshop in Austin for Reaching Our Spanish-Speaking Audience (ROSA).

Staff Development (episode 41) - May 15, 2008
Adam Wright interviews Carolyn Davidson and dona weisman of the North Texas Regional Library System about staff development, with a focus on the continuing education opportunities available at the upcoming NTRLS themed conferences, TechNet 2008 and CYC 2008. For more information, see http://www.technet2008.com/ and http://cyc2008.com/

Downloadable Audiobooks (episode 39) - April 28, 2008
Martha Knott, from technical services at San Antonio Public Library, talks with Kathryn Sturtz from AALS about how and why San Antonio Public Library became involved with downloadable audiobooks.

Creating Library Environments (episode 38) - May 2, 2008
Julie Todaro, Dean of Library Services at Austin Community College, was recently featured at a Library Design symposium held by CTLS and AIA Austin. Julie and her department are currently building a new Round Rock general campus library with health sciences programs. ACC Round Rock will be their biggest campus to date. Over the past 7 years, ACC Library Services has renovated 2 libraries and in the most recent 3 years, they've built 3 new library environments. This podcast is an excerpt from Julie's March 6th talk: New Libraries: The Agony and Ecstasy.

The Importance of Customer Service in the Library (episode 37) - April 11, 2008
Library consultant Dr. Mary Bushing sees customer service as a key responsibility for every library staff member. Dr. Bushing is interviewed here by Nell Callison from NTRLS. See NTRLS.org for information about Dr. Bushing's upcoming workshop, Customer Service for Circulation Staff, May 15 and 16 at NTRLS libraries.

Inventory, Insurance, and Reconciliations (episode 35) - March 31, 2008
Steve Lott, an accountant for the Alamo Area Library System, discusses several aspects of inventory.

Long Range Planning (episode 34) - May 9, 2008
In this podcast we hear from Jennifer Patterson, Continuing Education coordinator at CTLS, Inc., who explains the nuts and bolts of long range planning: what it is, why it's useful to libraries, who are the active participants, and resources for long range plans.

How to Be a Great Library Director (episode 33) - March 17, 2008
Adam Wright interviews Katherine Boyer, Director of the Roanoke Public Library. Katherine tells how she became a librarian and what has changed in the years since she entered the profession. She has advice for students or librarians hoping to become library directors: always be ready to learn from your colleagues!

Social Networking Online (episode 31) - March 3, 2008
Kathryn Sturtz and Vivienne Beckett discuss a variety of online social networking sites. These sites and services can appeal to libraries in many different ways. Some of the topics discussed: Amazon, Google Groups, Authors message boards, Flickr, Facebook, Myspace, Youtube, and many more.

The New Library Amenities (episode 30) - March 3, 2008
When Georgetown Public Library began planning for a new library space, they decided to broaden their amenities to include community rooms and a coffee shop. Kam McEvoy interviews Eric Lashley, Director of Georgetown Public Library, to discuss how these new amenities have enhanced services to their patrons.

Hosting Videogame Events in the Library (episode 29) - February 21, 2008
Eli Neiburger from the Ann Arbor District Library has tips for producing videogame tournaments that appeal simultaneously to a broad audience - children, teens, families, and seniors.

Advanced Google (episode 27) - February 4, 2008
Kathryn Sturtz and Vivienne Beckett from the Alamo Area Library System discuss tips on how to use some advanced Google tools, such as advanced search options, Google Book Search, Google Scholar, Google Sketchup, and Google Earth.

Texas Reading Programs for Public Libraries (episode 26) - January 30, 2008
It's never too early to start thinking about Summer Reading Programs for your library! In this podcast, Suzan Nyfeler will talk about this year's themes for Texas public libraries and what's new for 2008. For more information, visit the Texas Reading Club website and the Texas Teens Read website.

Moving Forward with Technology (episode 25) - January 18, 2008
Jesse Ephraim from the Southlake Public Library discusses strategies a librarian can use for deciding to adopt new technology, learning new technology, and keeping current with new developments. For some of the Internet resources Jesse recommends, see our Technology and Libraries links page

Library Start-Up (episode 23) - January 7, 2008
George Keller, a volunteer at the Harper Public Library, talks about starting a new library in a community that previously did not have one. Mr. Keller points out a number of steps, ideas, and challenges in getting their library started

Merchandising Your Collection (episode 22) - January 4, 2008
Make 2008 the year you incorporate merchandising into your routine at the library for increased circulation and improved patron satisfaction. Kam McEvoy at CTLS discusses the merchandising techniques that Kathy Schalk-Greene and Joan Bernstein from the Mount Laurel Library in New Jersey used to transform their library. For more resources, visit the Trading Spaces Website.

Library Revolution (episode 21) - December 20, 2007
An interview with Kerry McGeath about his revolutionary practices at his library in Southlake, Texas. Kerry feels that libraries should shift philosophy to focus on customer service and satisfy the needs of a high percentage of the community. His practices have produced a dramatic increase in circulation and community support for the library.

Altered Books (episode 19) - December 10, 2007
Julie Ousley, a lay representative and volunteer at the New Braunfels Public Library, discusses a different and creative way of utilizing left over/weeded books when no longer used within the library. Her method turns books into forms of art.

Selecting Nonfiction and Nonfiction Readers' Advisory (episode 18) - December 4, 2007
We speak with Jennifer Patterson, Continuing Education Coordinator for CTLS and former Branch Manager at Austin Public Library, concerning the nonfiction collection in a library.

Leadership (episode 17) - November 26, 2007
Alexis Sarkisian, a library consultant and adjunct instructor at Dominican University, specializes in Communication for Leadership and Marketing. With Nell Callison from NTRLS, she discusses the nature of leadership, how to become a leader, and how to use communication as a leadership tool.

Accounting Cycles for Library Purchases (episode 15) - November 9, 2007
Steve Lott, the accountant for the Alamo Area Library System, talks about the accounting cycles for library puchases.

Providing Computer Classes for Adults (episode 14) - November 6, 2007
Daniel Berra works at the Wells Branch Community Library in Austin, Texas, and he organizes a robust adult programming schedule, including ongoing computer classes for adults.

Working with Performers and Presenters for Library Programs (episode 13) - October 24, 2007
dona weisman from NTRLS shares advice about planning library programs and working with performers and presenters.

Terminal Services and Thin Clients (episode 11) - October 15, 2007
Library IT Consultant Robert Williams discusses server-based computing, particularly terminal services and thin clients, and the advantages and disadvantages of this type of technology.

Library Additions (episode 10) - October 8, 2007
Mickey DuVall, Director of the Bastrop Public Library, tells about the process of planning and building a new addition. The interview includes advice for libraries that might be planning a similar project.

Starting a Literacy Program (episode 9) - October 8, 2007
Bowie Public Library Director Rebecca Fernandez tells how her library recently started a Literacy program.

Tips for Illiad (episode 7) - September 17, 2007
Interview with Kate Cordts, Manager of Interlibrary Loan at San Antonio Public Library, about using Illiad to manage Interlibrary Loan.

Fundraising (episode 6) - September 10, 2007
Effective Fundraising with Beth Wheeler Fox, Director of the Westbank Community Library District in Austin, TX

CYC 2007 (episode 5)- Part 1 and Part 2 - August 24, 2007
Interviews with Rose Mary Cortez and Wylaina Hildreth about their experiences at the Children and Youth Conference 2007.

Serving Special Needs (episode 4) - June 8, 2007
An interview with Patrick Wear, a Special Needs Consultant, on how libraries can better serve special needs patrons.

Customer Service in the Library (episode 3) - February 28, 2007
An interview with Kerry McGeath, Director of Southlake Public Library, about Customer Service at the library.

Partnerships between Public and School Libraries (episode 2) - December 20, 2006
An interview with Yvonne Flippo of the John Ed Keeter Public Library in Saginaw, Texas, about her partnerships with School Libraries.

Idea Management and Professional Conferences (episode 1) - November 16, 2006
In this premiere episode of Librarian Live, Carolyn Davidson interviews Adam Wright about his article on Idea Management and Professional Conferences.