Loutit District Library

Two weeks ago, I met my dear friend, Amy, in beautiful downtown Grand Haven for a library tour!

We started our afternoon with a delicious lunch at Lucy's Market and Deli. I'll definitely go back and you can see why:

Lakeshore Special: "Boar's Head Premium Oven Gold Turkey
with Dill Havarti Cheese, Honey Mustard,
Tomato and Lettuce on Sourdough"

Afterwards, we headed to the gorgeous Loutit District Library for a complete behind-the-scenes tour with Library Director, John Martin.

Library Profile

• Class Size: 5 (serves a population 26,000 - 49,999)
• A library that is a class 5 requires that the director have a Level 1 certificate (MLIS degree + four years of full-time employment post-MLIS) and at least one Level 3 staff member (Bachelor's degree from an accredited college/university + beginning workshop) for every 20,000 people living in the library's area
• According to the 2012-2013 State Aid Report, Loutit serves 35,540
• Loutit is quite a bit larger than the libraries in the Thumb area which typically range from Class 1 - 3
• I currently work at a Class 3 library, which serves a population of 7,000 - 11,999, with an actual population of 11,833
• The library's service area is comprised of roughly 83 square miles
• The library occupies 49,723 square feet and has a collection of 131,771 (includes digital content such as ebooks and databases)
• Loutit has two library millages - one of which was voted in perpetuity
• Operating income (local + state + federal): $2,408,429

 Notes From My Visit

I geek intellectual freedom
(hint: it is right underneath
the sticker and underlined)

• Lots of parking - all of which was free (including a covered parking structure)
• The main lobby area occasionally plays hosts to concerts 
• Loutit Library hosts children's art for the community's ArtWalk (similar to ArtPrize in Grand Rapids)
• Loutit is participating in the Geek the Library campaign
• The library's lower level features ample seating for working on group projects, vending machines (beverages are allowed in the library), and two meeting rooms
• Flat screens mounted on the wall loop through a series of informational slides about upcoming library events
• In the near future, the library will begin intershelving its paperback collection which will free up floor space
• Grand Haven has a bus system - Harbor Transit. There is even a phone with a direct line to the bus company in the foyer
• Loutit has a self-check out kiosk
• The library also has a self-service holds pick-up for patrons - books are wrapped in white paper for privacy purposes
• The children's area has reference copies of Newbery and Caldecott books for projects
• Board games are available for kids to play
• Via a Great Start grant project, the library has a number of backpacks in circulation which are filled with theme-based books and activities
• Very popular items and are hardly available during the summer months
• At the end of the semester, the youth programming room is turned into a study hall for kids
• Loutit Library houses a collection of materials for Ottawa County's literary group, R.E.A.D - Reading Enables Adult Development
• The library has a local history and genealogy room which has 6 computers just for genealogical research
• Lockers are available for patrons - no food or bags permitted  

Thank you to John Martin and the fabulous staff at LDL
for their time and hospitality! 

 To view more pictures from my tour, please visit my
Loutit District Library album on Flickr.

Life in Pictures

The month of February has been pretty eventful thus far....

At the beginning of the month, I visited John King Books on Lafayette Boulevard with fellow librarian and friend, Jeanette.

 It was my very first visit. A pilgrimage of sorts. I bought a few books -- one of which The Fight for America by Joseph McCarthy which is a fabulous addition to my intellectual freedom collection.

My last post focused on the need for multicultural literature -- February is African American history month. As you can surmise, this month's YA display features African American literature and historical materials. I created this graphic:

Here are some various pictures from work:

While working on weeding the YA collection, I discovered
this awesome note inside Or Give Me Death by Ann Rinaldi
when checking its circulation

My doll, Verity, joins the staff at CADL

And a couple of pictures of my coworkers and I:

On Monday, I toured Loutit District Library in Grand Haven, Michigan. I'll be uploading pictures and some notes from my visit in the near future.

Librarians on Tour

I've been busy...

In mid-June, with my friend and LIS comrade, Jeanette Marks (a SLIS alumna), I toured Cheboygan Area Public Library and Mackinac Island Public Library! We refer to our road trip as: "Librarians on Tour."

Kim Schulz and I

Cheboygan Area Public Library

• Our guide was Kim Schulz, Assistant Library Director and fellow SLIS alumna.
• Quick facts from the 2011 - 2012 Library State Aid Report:
• Class 4 library -- serves populations between 12,000 - 25,999. 
• Population served: 13,993
• Operating expenditures: $484,660 
• Collection size: 64,998
• Separate YA area complete with two restaurant-style booths for group work
• Large basement houses the FoL book store, community rooms, pottery and craft rooms
• Beautifully landscaped outdoor garden with reading area
• Über-talented children's librarian, "Mr. King" created the following video for this year's summer reading program's theme, Dig Into Reading:

• Album of pictures from our visit...

Mackinac Island Public Library

• Our guide was Anne St. Onge, Library Director.
• Quick facts from the 2011 - 2012 Library State Aid Report:
•  Class 1 library -- serves populations 0 - 3,999
• Population served: 492
• Operating expenditures: $63,177
• Collection size: 13,826
• The library is open year-round for the residents whom live on the island
• Lovely teal interior with white trim gives a bright and fresh look
• They've been at their current location since 1992
• Due to lots of questions, the library has set up at FAQ page
• Water-front location complete with a rear deck and adirondack chairs
• Album of pictures from our visit...

City of Oceanside Public Library

On April 24, I met with Kristina Moralez, Community Outreach Coordinator, of the City of Oceanside Public Library and received a full behind-the-scenes tour!

Notes from my visit:

• First thought: I was impressed by how much free public parking was available! A parking garage was located next to the library (and City Hall) plus ample street parking.
• The building was bright and fresh looking! The color scheme: white and royal blue, made me think of a Vera Bradley pattern -- Mediterranean White.
• Two-stories with library administration, the adult and special collections housed upstairs. 
• At the time of my visit, the children's department had a craft going and it was quite busy! 
• The library has separate areas for tweens and teens. Loved this idea. 
• The Helen M. Nelson Heritage Room houses the library's special collections and is available to the public by permission. I've included a few pictures of this room in the slideshow embedded below.
• Very active Friends of the Library group with an on-site store that raises around $700-800 a month. Book sales are even at the Farmer's Market. 
• While visiting, I purchased an Everyman's Library edition of Song of Solomon by Toni Morrison that looked to be brand new!
• The library has a centralized phone system which does not route directly to the circulation desk -- everyone (including the director) takes a turn running it. 
• Morning briefings help keep everyone in the know.
• Ample staff areas for behind-the-scenes work. I especially loved the children's programming area with workbenches and storage totes.
• The library has a very rich history and in a variety of different locations -- lots of moving around, but yet continually serving the Oceanside community.
• While touring, I was introduced to Mayra Turchiano, Children's Department, and Monica Chapa-Domercq, Principal Librarian. Thoroughly enjoyed chatting with them!

Slideshow:

Amtraking Across America: The Who, What, Where, When, Why, and How

Boarding the Southwest Chief
at Chicago Union Station

At 3:16a last Monday, I was home and finally crawling into bed. My trip was downright amazing and I was exhausted as a result.  

Now that I've been home and settled back into the groove of my life and feel as though I can pull together a few semi-intelligible sentences, I'll attempt to begin catching readers up to speed on my Amtrak trip!

Why a trip to California? Here's the short answer: My beautiful niece, Kailin, is temporarily residing in Encinitas, California -- with my upcoming graduation, I felt it would be the perfect time to take a trip out West to spend some time with her and, of course, tour a few libraries while in the area.

As most travelers do, I contemplated booking a flight. It's quick, pretty affordable... And, in my opinion, downright horrible. I recalled my last experience which entailed being herded like cattle through airport security -- complete with a pat down -- and onto a tin can with wings. Once upon the plane, I witnessed a man groping his wife (mere inches from my face) as she proceeded to make her way to the restroom...and...the groping session resumed upon her return. And how could I forget the fact that I am 5'10" tall and a curvy woman which resulted in me feeling smothered while seated on the plane?! The claustrophobic feeling came soon after the gentleman in front of me decided that he wanted to take a nap during the flight. That experience flying was one that will never be included in the category of a "good time." Flying was quickly ruled out.

My second idea was to drive, but soon realized when looking at possible routes, that I would be a prisoner of the highway for roughly three days and my sightseeing opportunities would be pretty limited. For the same reason, Greyhound was ruled out.

Beyond a trip to Toronto when I was still in diapers, I haven't traveled by train. It would be exciting...an adventure. And if you know me, I love a good adventure...

Enter Amtrak.

Using the other seat as a foot
rest and a place for my books!

Another 'who' question that has been asked: was I alone? Yes, I traveled cross-country alone. To those closest to me, it didn't come as a surprise. One of my best friends said, "I know how independent you are...I'm so chicken, I'd never venture out like you..." My thoughts on traveling cross-country alone: you definitely need to be comfortable with yourself.

Now for some of the 'how':
My trip involved a total of three different Amtrak trains. The Wolverine (Royal Oak - Chicago), Southwest Chief (Chicago to Los Angeles), and the Pacific Surfliner (Los Angeles - Oceanside). I had sleeper accommodations on the Southwest Chief because I was on that train for about 40 hours.

The awesome folks at Enterprise in Oceanside (*waves to Joey at the Coast Highway office*) picked me up from the Amtrak station in an American car (per my request) and after a quick bit of paperwork, I was headed to my accommodations at Carlsbad by the Sea Resort.

More soon on my train experience as well as the sights and adventure!

California

I have so much to write about, but either haven't had time or internet access to do so. Alive, I am, and doing extremely well. I thoroughly enjoyed my Amtrak experience to California and have full faith that my journey home will be just as positive.

I've been spending as much time with my niece, Kailin, as possible and we've managed to see some pretty spectacular sights thus far including Swamis Beach, City of Oceanside Public Library, Encinitas Library, and even a meditation garden.

Stay tuned for more blog posts and pictures...

Hotel California

In about two weeks, I'll be boarding Amtrak's Southwest Chief and heading to California!
The route:

I was completely geeked when I found out the Amtrak serves Hebrew National! (Nom nom nom.)
 
Once in California, I have plans to officially tour Oceanside Public Library and at least one USMC library on either Miramar or Pendleton (or both)! Unofficially, I'd like to visit two northern branches of the San Diego Public Library -- Encinitas and Del Mar.

Stay tuned for updates and photos from my trip...

FLITE

Earlier this month, I took a road trip to my Alma Mater, Ferris State University and visited FLITE (Ferris Library for Information, Technology and Education). Here are some photos from my visit:

View from my perch...

Display case...

Adventures in the Z Class

Yesterday, I seized the day by visiting the Library of Michigan while I am still on break between semesters and got lost in the Z class for a few hours browsing my favorite topic: censorship and intellectual freedom.

Between interviewing directors and practicing librarians as well as reading a fabulous book titled True Stories of Censorship Battles in America's Libraries -- edited by Kathy Barco and Valerie Nye -- I seem to have a pretty good grasp on the patron-side of challenges and censorship which prompted me to explore materials from the view of  librarians that are actually pro-censorship. So...I picked up Censorship: Opposing Viewpoints and read Thomas Storck's essay titled, A Case for Censorship: Defending the Poor from the Jaded Rich. 

Needless to say, I was pretty floored and as a result ended up logging into Facebook to capture a sentence in the essay's introduction. My status update read, "There is something wrong with the following sentence: 'Storck, a librarian in Washington, D.C., insists that censorship can both prevent harmful acts and facilitate society's intellectual pursuit of truth.'"

Thomas Storck (1994) posits: 

"For, human nature being what it is, it is naive to think we can freely read and view things that promote or portray evil deeds without sometimes feeling encouraged to commit such deeds. And if this is the case, then censorship can sometimes be a necessity...[case for censorship]...It can be stated in the following simple thesis: ideas lead to actions, and bad ideas often lead to bad acts, bringing harm to individuals and possible ruin to societies. Just as the state has the right to restrict and direct a person's activities when he is a physical threat to the community, so also in the matter of intellectual or cultural threats, the authorities have duties to protect the community." (Pages 18-19)

Further... 

"The ideal censor is not some ill-educated, parochial bigot, but someone of liberal education and continued wide reading, someone with a grasp of first principles and enough experience and wisdom to see how they should be put into practice." (Page 23)

"A final point that must be noted is the connection between anti-censorship arguments and the free market...It is primarily the rich who promote and subsidize ideas and art that undermine traditional ways of life, and it is primarily the poor who suffer on that account. Society exists to protect and promote the welfare of all, but especially of the poor and the workingman. To exalt the free and irresponsible expression of the individual is to take up a position contrary to the community's duty of protecting the poor...Only those with sufficient money and ennui have the time or resources to produce ideas or art that corrupt or debase." (Page 23 - 24)

My thoughts...
I wholeheartedly concur with the sentiments of Lester Asheim -- "Selection seeks to protect the right of the reader to read; censorship seeks to protect—not the right—but the reader from himself from the fancied effects of his reading. The selector has faith in the intelligence of the reader; the censor has faith only in his own."

While some might be disgusted by the availability of a book they deem 'morally bankrupt', I align myself with good old Ranganathan and his 5 laws of library science -- specifically: (2) Every reader his (or her) book; and, (3) Every book its reader. We live in a free society and people have the right to read what they wish to read...and not be censored by some "well meaning" individual. I wholeheartedly believe that a good public library will truly have something to offend everyone...and if it doesn't...then it's someone's private library.

War of 1812: Great Lakes Theatre

Yesterday, I spent my day touring historic sites associated with the War of 1812 thanks to a bus trip hosted by the Historical Society of Michigan and the Michigan Commission on the Commemoration of the Bicentennial of the War of 1812.

I cannot say this enough: I love being a member of the Historical Society of Michigan.  
 
Key players: Dr. Jim McConnell, Tour Director; Annette McConnell, Tour Facilitator; Ralph Naveaux, author/historian; and Dan Harrison, librarian/historian.

Our stops and topics: Fort Meigs in Perrysburg, Ohio; lunch at McGready's Town Pub (where General Custer allegedly had his last drink); River Raisin National Battlefield; Hull's Trace, North Huron River in Brownstown Township, Michigan; Battle of Brownstown; and the Battle of Monguagon.

In the morning, on our way to Fort Meigs, Dr. McConnell laid out much of the historical background surrounding the war and presented a verbally annotated bibliography -- some fabulous materials were passed around the bus for our perusal. I was geeked to find a pretty comprehensive bibliography included in our tour packet and was even more giddy when I found out that I actually own one of the harder books to come by: The Invasion of Canada by Pierre Berton -- which I picked up while touring Fort St. Joseph in Ontario, Canada last August.

While I completely enjoyed the entire day, I must admit that my favorite stop was Fort Meigs -- I could've spent all day there and plan on returning in the near future.

Please take a moment to view the rest of my photos from yesterday:

Marshall District Library: Explore, Discover, Grow

On Friday, July 20, Janet and I took a road trip to visit Library Director Angela Semifero at Marshall District Library in downtown beautiful historic Marshall, Michigan.

Profile
MDL serves the City of Marshall as well as the following townships: Eckford, Marengo, Marshall, and Fredonia --  a population of around 15,000 thus giving the agency a Class 4 designation from the Library of Michigan which is comprised of libraries serving populations of 12,000 to 25,999. The library operates with a budget of about $940,000 and houses a collection of about 71,000 items in a 19,000-square-foot former grocery store that has been renovated in 1997 to suit the agency's needs.

Mission: "...to serve its community by providing diverse informational, educational and recreational materials in a supportive and accessible environment."

Motto / Tagline: Explore, Discover, Grow. (love this!)

Vision:
To provide a stimulating environment and supportive staff;
To encourage the public's use and support of library services and facilities;
To stimulate children's interest and appreciation for reading and learning while supporting patrons of all ages;
To provide access to electronic resources including the internet;
To provide materials on diverse interests upholding democratic and intellectual freedoms (my favorite);
To provide guidance in the use of references, electronic and loan materials.

About the Director
Angela Semifero graduated from Wayne State University with her MLIS in 2004. She's been with MDL, in various capacities including Deputy Director, since 2006 and became Library Director in 2011. Semifero's resume is impressive and I was tickled to learn that she was an adjunct instructor for the School of Library and Information Science (Wayne State University) in 2009, teaching Young Adult Literature (LIS 6530) and Access to Information (LIS 6120)...and a member of ALA's Social Responsibilities Round Table -- Feminist Task Force -- which is responsible for the Amelia Bloomer Project! Semifero is co-chairing the project and has been a part of the committee for 5 years now. (Yes, she is that awesome!)

From My Notebook...

• We met with Angela at 1:00p on a Friday and the library was BUSY! (She considered it to be slow.) Let me just say: it was a challenge taking photos due to patrons utilizing specific areas of the library.
• Always tries to have a manager in the building during public service hours.
• Very well-lit and with ample (and comfortable) seating for patrons. There was lots of tables for working on projects, as well.
• Excellent signage breaks down and simplifies the various Dewey classes for patrons!
• Oversized non-fiction books were shelved together and easy to access -- no worries about one falling on your head or having to crawl around on the floor to in order to browse the bottom shelf.
• MDL participates in local parades! They're already getting ready for this year's Christmas parade. Semifero said, "We are super involved in the community we serve, such as being a part of service groups, and already planning our float for the holiday parade."
• Uses Gmail and Googledocs for staff communication / collaboration.
• Interesting fact: the City of Marshall actually owns the parking lot.
• The library has a drive-up book drop!
• Space between the stacks allowed for multiple patrons to easily browse without giving feelings of  claustrophobia or bumping into each other people.
• Very big on grant writing -- especially collaborative grants. It's how many of the library's programs and events get funded.
• Uses Millenium ILS.
• Security cameras due to a break-in.
• MDL wrote a $15k grant for an after-school program which is highly utilized by area youth.
• The library provides "ideas" for tweens to teens to help them keep busy (and out of trouble.)
• I was super geeked to see that the library offered a number of a games and puzzles as well as paper, scissors, markers, crayons, and pencils for those feeling creative.
• MDL has a large graphic collection: Anime, Manga, comic books, and graphic novels!
• MDL hosts gaming nights with popular consoles. (Love this idea!)
• Policy and procedure manuals are available at every desk for staff's use.
• A grant from the community foundation has faciliatated the library with digitizing newspapers.
• Study rooms and the reference room -- 1 person must be over 18.
• Mobile laptop lab!
• The collection is shelf-read weekly!
• MDL hosts a volunteer / donor reception to say 'thanks.'
• The library has an artwork collection that circulates for 3 weeks.
• Regular circulation is for 2 weeks and the library offers a 1 week grace period -- very unique!
• Utilizes PC Reservation by EnvisionWare.
• Internet for adults: not filtered; internet for juveniles: filtered.
• Carries court forms.
• A small display cases features "MDL in the News" -- clippings of library happenings collected from the media.
• The library responds to every patron suggestion.

Photos from our visit...

30 Years and 30 Libraries: Statistics

Image by Andy Thompson

In case you're just tuning in, before my 30th birthday, I began pondering something unique and special to celebrate the milestone. At first I thought about a staging a literary-themed costume party, hosting a read-in, or even a literature-to-film night; however, a better idea came to me: a campaign of library tours called 30 Years and 30 Libraries.

Throughout the months of November, December, January, I visited, photographed, and toured 30 different libraries and wrote about my various adventures via this blog. The 30 Years and 30 Libraries project not only provided me with fun and adventure, but also served as a learning experience for my professional development.

This post will serve as a final wrap-up that'll share some interesting 30Y.30L statistics and anecdotes! As always, if you have any questions, feel free to contact me at jcbrown at wayne dot edu.

Fun with Numbers

• Negativity: In the early stages of putting together this project, I ran into issues with 6 libraries -- one of which, the director actually laughed at me and was incredibly rude on the phone when I was attempting to explain the project (this was even after she received a letter in the mail detailing the project and explaining my background). Needless to say, I didn't end up touring her library!
• The remaining 5 libraries didn't return phone calls during the planning process and were subsequently dropped from the 30Y.30L list after several unsuccessful attempts;
• I drove 3,035.80 miles (round trip -- plus picking up a travel companion prior to heading to the upper peninsula)
• Averaging the cost of gasoline at $3.50 a gallon, I spent about $530.00 on fuel.
•  I spent a total of 73 hours driving;

This photo was taken after the weeds and debris
were removed from the truck's undercarriage.
(Notice the mudsplatter is backwards on the
truck because I left the highway at a spin!)

• Out of the 73 hours, I spent 16.5 hours driving for the upper peninsula trip;
• Sans the 2 libraries located in the upper peninsula, the average drive time to a library visit (one-way) was about 1 hour;
• I got into one single-vehicle accident due to an encounter with black ice on westbound I-69 just slightly past the on-ramp near Imlay City. My truck ended up on the far north-end of the grassy slope near the MDOT fence -- OnStar as well as my four-wheel drive assisted in the recovery effort.
• A total of 59.25 hours were spent touring the thirty libraries which means the average visit lasted around 2 hours;
• For two library visits, I had to use a ferry -- tour #4: Reader's Cove Library and Tour #29: Drummond Island Library -- total fares $19.00 ($7.00 for the ferry to Harsen's Island and $12.00 for the ferry to Drummond Island);
• I stayed two nights in a hotel for this project; 
• Of the libraries toured, 7 were in Sanilac County, 6 were in Tuscola County, 5 were in Huron County, 5 were in Oakland County, 2 were in Lapeer County, 2 were in St. Clair County, 1 was in Chippewa County, 1 was Mackinac County, and 1 was in Wayne County;
• 60% of the libraries were located in Michigan's Thumb area;
• 18 libraries belong to White Pine Library Cooperative, 5 libraries belong to The Library Network (TLN), 3 libraries belong to the Mideastern Michigan Library Cooperative, 2 libraries belong to the Superiorland Library Cooperative, 1 library belongs to the Suburban Library Cooperative, and 1 library didn't belong to any cooperatives due to being private;
• 2 agencies were a blend between public libraries and school media centers -- Tour #18: Opperman Memorial Library and Tour #29: Drummond Island Library;
• 2 libraries renovated former strip malls for their new homes -- Tour #9: Reese Unity District Library and Tour #27: Addison Township Public Library;
• Of the 29 library directors interviewed, only 4 were male -- Tour #6: Bullard Sanford Memorial Library (Eric Andreychuk), Tour #16: Oxford Public Library (Bryan Cloutier), Tour #21: Fairgrove District Library (Larry Haubenstricker), and Tours #29 and 30: Drummond Island Library and Les Cheneaux Community Library (Ken Miller).
• Out of the 30 libraries toured, 11 were under the supervision of a director holding an MLIS degree from an ALA-accredited institution.
• Those interviewed for the project: Tour #11: Eastpointe Memorial Library (Assistant Director: Sue Todd, Wayne State University); Tour #13: Brandon Township Library (Director: Paula Gauthier, University of Michigan); Tour #14: Aitkin Memorial District Library (Jennifer Walters, University of Michigan); Tour #16: Oxford Public Library (Bryan Cloutier, Wayne State University); Tour #17: Orion Township Library (now retired, Linda Sickles, Western Michigan University); Tour #23: Lapeer District Library: Clifford Library (Branch Manager: Rachael Smyczak, Wayne State University); Tour #24: Caro Area District Library (Marcia Dievendorf, Kent State University); Tour #27: Addison Township Public Library (Jaema Berman, Wayne State University), Tour #28: St. Clair County Library: Burtchville Township Library (Branch Manager: Jane Fortushniak, Wayne State University); Tours #29 and #30: Drummond Island Library and Les Cheneaux Community Library (Ken Miller, Wayne State University).
• 6 graduated from Wayne State University's SLIS program!
• The average size of a library toured was a Class 3.
• Class 0 (private library): 1; 
• Class 1 (population served: 0 – 3,999): 4; 
• Class 2 (population served: 4,000 – 6,999): 10; 
• Class 3 (population served: 7,000 – 11,999): 6; 
• Class 4 (population served: 12,000 – 25,999): 3; 
• Class 5 (population served: 26,000 – 49,999): 4; 
• Class 6 (population served: 50,000+): 2
• Press and Coverage: The 30Y.30L project was featured on the front page of the Vassar Pioneer Times; via Facebook, the School of Library and Information Science shared the Hermionish link to the Vassar Pioneer Times article; Bullard Sanford Memorial Library featured the project on their website; my 'featured student' profile on the School of Library and Information Science website mentions the 30Y.30L project and links to this blog
• At the 2012 Rural Libraries Conference at the Grand Traverse Bay Resort, I was approached by several librarians who inquired if I was 'the same Jill Brown who toured all of those libraries.'

Rank by Miles Away

A map showing the 30 libraries!

1. Sandusky District Library (6.3 miles)
2. Elk Township Library (7.5 miles)
3. Aitkin Memorial District Library (18.2 miles)
4. Deckerville Public Library (18.4 miles)
5. Lapeer District Library: Clifford Library (18.9 miles)
6. Marlette District Library (19.0 miles)
7. Brown City Public Library (20.1 miles)
8. Moore Public Library (21.8 miles)
9. Opperman Memorial Library (22.6 miles)
10. North Branch Township Library (25.9 miles)
11. Sleeper Public Library (31.8 miles)
12. Burtchville Township Library (33.3 miles)
13. Rawson Memorial District Library (34.1 miles)
14. Caro Area District Library (38.4 miles)
15. Bad Axe Area District Library (40.7 miles)
16. Bullard Sanford Memorial Library (46.8 miles)
17. Fairgrove District Library (47.5 miles)
18. Harbor Beach Area District Library (50.3 miles)
19. Reese Unity District Library (52.7 miles)
20. Addison Township Public Library (52.9 miles)
21. Pigeon District Library (56.6 miles)
22. Port Austin Township Library (58.0 miles)
23. Reader's Cove Library (64.3 miles)
24. Oxford Public Library (64.5 miles)
25. Orion Township Library (65.7 miles)
26. Eastpointe Memorial Library (71.2 miles)
27. Brandon Township Library (75.5 miles)
28. Holly Township Library (86.8 miles)
29. Les Cheneaux Community Library (287 miles)
30. Drummond Island Library (321 miles)

Rank by Class Size

(Note: this ranking is slightly skewed due to several libraries being a branch of a larger system library)

Guide:
Class 1 (population served: 0 – 3,999)
Class 2 (population served: 4,000 – 6,999)
Class 3 (population served: 7,000 – 11,999)
Class 4 (population served: 12,000 – 25,999)
Class 5 (population served: 26,000 – 49,999)
Class 6 (population served: 50,000+)

1. Class 0 (private library): Reader's Cove Library
2. Class 1: Elk Township Library
3. Class 1: Fairgrove District Library
4. Class 1: North Branch Township Library
5. Class 1: Sleeper Public Library
6. Class 2: Addison Township Public Library
7. Class 2: Bad Axe Area District Library
8. Class 2: Brown City Public Library
9. Class 2: Deckerville Public Library
10. Class 2: Harbor Beach Area District Library
11. Class 2: Marlette District Library
12. Class 2: Moore Public Library
13. Class 2: Opperman Memorial Library
14. Class 2: Port Austin Township Library 
15. Class 2: Reese Unity District Library
16. Class 3: Aitkin Memorial District Library
17. Class 3: Bullard Sanford Memorial Library
18. Class 3: Caro Area District Library
19. Class 3: Pigeon District Library
20. Class 3: Rawson Memorial District Library
21. Class 3: Sandusky District Library
22. Class 4: Brandon Township Library
23. Class 4: Holly Township Library
24. Class 4: Oxford Public Library
25. Class 5: Drummond Island Library
26. Class 5: Eastpointe Memorial Library
27. Class 5: Les Cheneaux Community Library
28. Class 5: Orion Township Public Library
29. Class 6: Lapeer District Library - Clifford Branch
30. Class 6: St. Clair County Library - Burtchville Branch

Rank by Operating Budget
Note: three libraries will be excluded from this list -- (1) Reader's Cove Library on Harsen's Island due to being private and operating on donations; (2) Opperman Memorial Library -- only a collection development budget was provided; (3) Burtchville Township Library (a branch of the St. Clair County Library System) -- only a collection development budget was provided.

1. Bayliss Public Library (Class 5): Drummond Island Library: $25,440
2. Lapeer District Library (Class 6): Clifford Library: $42,688 
3. Brown City Public Library (Class 2): $45,000 
4. Elk Township Library (Class 1): $45,000 - $50,000
5. Bayliss Public Library (Class 5): Les Cheneaux Community Library: $48,180
6. Deckerville Public Library (Class 2): $64,000
7. Port Austin Township Library (Class 2): $72,000
8. Sleeper Public Library (Class 1): $72,000 - $75,000
9. Reese Unity District Library (Class 2): $100,000
10. North Branch Township Library (Class 1): $101,000
11. Marlette District Library (Class 2): $110,000
12. Fairgrove District Library (Class 1): $134,000
13. Moore Public Library (Class 2): $175,000
14. Addison Township Public Library (Class 2): $210,000
15. Aitkin Memorial District Library (Class 3): $230,000
16. Bad Axe Area District Library (Class 2): $248,000
17. Pigeon District Library (Class 3): $250,000
18. Sandusky District Library (Class 3): $250,000
19. Rawson Memorial District Library (Class 3): $300,000
20. Holly Township Library (Class 4): $344, 193
21. Bullard Sanford Memorial Library (Class 3): $400,000
22. Harbor Beach Area District Library (Class 2): $438,710
23. Caro Area District Library (Class 3): $500,000
24. Eastpointe Memorial Library (Class 5): $708,000
25. Brandon Township Library (Class 4): $908,149
26. Oxford Public Library (Class 4): $1,100,000
27. Orion Township Public Library (Class 5): $2,500,000

Total: $9,418,360*
(*Note: When a range was given, the smaller budget amount was utilized.)  

Once again, I'd like to thank the 30 libraries that participated in this project -- I cannot even begin to express my gratitude for this special and unique opportunity. I learned so much from them!

Please, please support your local library. As Marcia Dievendorf of Caro District Library said, "Access to information and knowledge -- that's the driving force. Libraries are an important part of our democracy. You can educate yourself for free."

Lady Bird Johnson said, "Perhaps no place in any community is so totally democratic as the town library. The only entrance requirement is interest."

And Lesley Conger once said, "The best of my education has come from the public library...my tuition fee is a bus fare and once in a while, five cents a day for an overdue book. You don't need to know very much to start with, if you know the way to the public library."

Westward

My next Hermionish adventure is in the works! I'll be headed to Hope College in Holland, Michigan to check out two exhibitions...

Here's an overview of each exhibit taken directly from Hope College's website:

Reading Between the Lines: Rare Books...
"'Reading between the Lines' features rare books dating from the 15th through 20th centuries, and reflects on the art and technique of printing across time as well as on the origins and roles of the pieces. The exhibition was curated and designed by Hope students participating in the 'Special Projects in Art History' class taught in the fall semester by Dr. Anne Heath-Wiersma, who is an assistant professor of art and director of the De Pree gallery."

Manifold Greatness: The Creation and Afterlife of the King James Bible
"The title Manifold Greatness, referring to the multifaceted or 'manifold' influence of this landmark book, is taken from the 1611 Bible’s dedication to King James, which begins, 'Great and manifold were the blessings' when God made James the king of England.

Printed in 1611, the King James Bible became the most influential English translation of the Bible and one of the most widely read books in the world. This exhibit takes a look at the dramatic history of the King James Bible, what we know about the scholars who translated it, and how it has continued to influence literature, culture, and society for over 400 years – from the words of Handel's Messiah to Martin Luther King’s 'I have a dream' speech."

Good news: I've been granted permission to photograph the exhibits!

Stay tuned...

30 Years and 30 Libraries: Introduction and Index

Image by Andy Thompson

A short time ago, before my 30th birthday, I began pondering something unique and special to celebrate the milestone. At first I thought about a staging a literary-themed costume party, hosting a read-in, or even a literature-to-film night; however, a better idea came to me: a campaign of library tours called 30 Years and 30 Libraries.

Throughout the months of November, December, and January, I visited, photographed, and toured 30 different libraries and wrote about my various adventures via this blog. The 30 Years and 30 Libraries project not only provided me with fun and adventure, but also served as a learning experience in my professional development.

This post will serve as an index, of sorts, for the libraries in which I have visited:
(1) Moore Public Library: Lexington, Michigan - (11/15)
(2) Marlette District Library: Marlette, Michigan - (11/16)
(3) Brown City Public Library: Brown City, Michigan - (11/17)
(4) Reader's Cove Library: Harsens Island, Michigan - (11/19)
(5) Sleeper Public Library: Ubly, Michigan - (11/22)
(6) Bullard Sanford Memorial Library: Vassar, Michigan - (11/23)
(7) Pigeon District Library: Pigeon, Michigan - (11/26)
(8) Elk Township Library: Peck, Michigan - (11/29)
(9) Reese Unity District Library: Reese, Michigan - (12/1)
(10) North Branch Township Library: North Branch, Michigan - (12/2)
(11) Eastpointe Memorial Library: Eastpointe, Michigan - (12/5)
(12) Deckerville Public Library: Deckerville, Michigan - (12/6)
(13) Brandon Township Library: Ortonville, Michigan - (12/7)
(14) William H. Aitkin Memorial District Library: Croswell, Michigan - (12/8)
(15) Harbor Area District Library: Harbor Beach, Michigan - (12/9)

Sunday, December 11, 2011: 30th Birthday

(16) Oxford Public Library: Oxford, Michigan - (12/12)
(17) Orion Township Library: Lake Orion, Michigan - (12/13)
(18) Opperman Memorial Library: Kingston, Michigan - (12/15)
(19) Port Austin Township Library: Port Austin, Michigan - (12/16)
(20) Holly Township Library: Holly, Michigan - (12/19)
(21) Fairgrove District Library: Fairgrove, Michigan - (1/4)
(22) Sandusky District Library: Sandusky, Michigan - (1/6)
(23) Clifford Library: Clifford, Michigan - (1/9)
(24) Caro Area District Library: Caro, Michigan - (1/10)
(25) Bad Axe Area District Library: Bad Axe, Michigan - (1/11)
(26) Rawson Memorial District Library: Cass City, Michigan - (1/17)
(27) Addison Township Public Library: Leonard, Michigan - (1/20)
(28) Burtchville Township Library: Lakeport, Michigan - (1/23)
(29) Drummond Island Library: Drummond Island, Michigan - (1/27)
(30) Les Cheneaux Community Library: Cedarville, Michigan - (1/28)

"Libraries have always seemed like the richest places in the world to me, and I've done some of my best learning and thinking thanks to them. Libraries and librarians have definitely changed my life - and the lives of countless other Americans."
-Barbara Bush, First Lady of the United States, 1989-1993

I would like to express my sincerest gratitude to the 30 libraries that participated in this project. 

30Y.30L Tour (#30): Les Cheneaux Community Library

Image by Andy Thompson

My 30th visit! It was quite bittersweet...

On Saturday, January 28, after a beautiful snow fall, I headed to Cedarville, Michigan in order to tour Les Cheneaux Community Library -- a branch of Bayliss Public Library.

Rationale for selection: I had originally planned on just touring Drummond Island Library and selecting a rural library on the westside of the State (Idlewild Public Library). Touring this library came by recommendation of Library Director Ken Miller, who works out of Bayliss Public Library in Sault Sainte Marie, Michigan. Ken mentioned that I would be driving right through Cedarville on my way to Drummond Island Library. Being curious, I did a Google search for LCCL and was completely taken by both its uniqueness and beauty. 

Location

Click image to enlarge...

Cedarville, Michigan is located in Michigan's upper peninsula just east of Saint Ignace which is where I stayed during my visit. In fact, it was just a 30 minute drive from my hotel to the library. And it was a beautiful drive...

From my "home" library of Sandusky District Library, Les Cheneaux Community Library is 280 miles or about 5 hours away. As I've done for the twenty-nine other 30Y.30L posts, LCCL is 325 miles or about 5.25 hours from Purdy-Kresge Library, home of the School of Library and Information Science, on Wayne State University's downtown Detroit campus.

About the Branch
In an interview with Ken Miller, he stated that Bayliss Public Library has a contract with Mackinac County to provide services for the Cedarville area by way of Les Cheneaux Community Library. About the building, Miller said, "We have an agreement with the Friends of Les Cheneaux Community Library for use of the building, which they own. I believe that this is a unique situation in the State. I don't think that any other friends group owns the building that the library occupies."

More about the building and library from the Les Cheneaux Island Tourist Association's website:

"The Les Cheneaux Library was built in 2003 through the work of a committed group of volunteers and the generosity of many in our region. The beautiful new library is a true reflection of the unique character of the Les Cheneaux area.

The log cabin structure features a quiet reading room with a fireplace, computer lab, wireless internet, wrap-around porch, comfortable furnishings, murals and stained glass by local artisans, and a meeting room with large screen for media presentations.

The Library has recently won grants from Michigan Council for Arts, Libri Foundation, and Noyes Foundation enabling the building of our reference and children’s sections and a summer film festival.

Donations comprise a large portion of our budget and significantly contribute to our ability to provide timely materials and quality programming. LCCL maintains a list of items that are needed to continue to meet the needs of our community. The generosity of our patrons is greatly appreciated."

Les Cheneaux Community Library serves primarily Clark and Marquette Townships. According to 2010 Census data, Clark Township has a population of 2,056 with Marquette Township's population cited at 603. In comparing the data to that from the 2000 Census, Clark Township experienced a -6.5% change and a -8.49% change for Marquette Township.

Based on population, if Les Cheneaux Community Library were independent and not a branch library, it would certainly be designated as a Class 1 library. According to the Library of Michigan, a Class 1 serves a population of 3,999 or less and needs to:

• Be open a minimum of 15 hours per week;
• Employ (at least 15 hours per week) a director with at least a Level 4 certificate. 

The library has 1 part-time branch manager, 1 part-time assistant, 2 substitutes, has a collection size of 13,991 materials, and operates with a budget of $48,180. It is affiliated with the Superiorland Library Cooperative.

About the Director
Ken Miller has been in the LIS field for 40 years. While a student of the School of Library and Information Science (Wayne State University), Miller was working for the Detroit Public Library. When he graduated in 1976, with his MLIS, Miller segued into the role of librarian and began providing services to shut-ins and retirees via the Chaney Branch. He continued his work with DPL, holding various titles and positions, until 1999 when he took a position with Jackson District Library and later began interim director of the agency. 

Other positions Miller has held: Deputy Director of Matrix Theatre Company and Director of the Hiawathaland Library Cooperative.

He's been director of Bayliss Public Library since 2004.

Miller's professional interest: "...is and always was bringing library service to the disadvantaged—whatever the situation (i.e. urban or rural)." 

Favorite memory or career anecdote: "Two things: First, bringing the Bowen Branch library in Detroit back to life with community programming (the same was done here at Bayliss) and just recently we 'discovered' an original early 19th century chart of Lake Superior in our archive. It may be one of the 'working chart' that Lt. Bayfield's team used to create the printed ones for the British Admiralty. We raised funds for conservation, which has just been completed by the Bentley. We will have it digitized (photographed) and have a 'welcome home' reception soon."

 

Favorite part of the library's collection: "Our archive." (Bayliss Public Library)

Challenges: "Creating a district library from our city library and contract service areas."

Advice to those entering the profession: "Embrace change."

Notes and Observations

• Since my visit was on a Saturday morning, the library was holding story and craft hour in the children's area. I must say that it was well-attended and I got a charge out of browsing the stacks while listening to a few stories. 
• In collaboration with a technical school, LCCL offers a 2-year boat building school. How unique is that?! 
• LCCL offers flash drives, CDs, and ear-buds for sale to its patrons. (Brilliant idea.) 
• While photographing the library, I got talking to a patron who just happened to be from Tuscola County (my neighboring county) and a regular patron of Caro Area District Library. He was in town visiting his grandchildren and just happened to take them to story hour at the library. Small world! 
• Friends of LCCL has their own office space in the building. 
• The library has a Louis L'amour collection of books in hardcover.
• Les Cheneaux Community Library is a geocache site. What's a geocache? According to website Geocache.com, "Geocaching is a treasure hunting game where you use a GPS to hide and seek containers with other participants in the activity." I've included a photo of the "treasure" in the slideshow, but didn't give away its location. (You'll just have to visit the library and find it!)
• The library has a photo album that tells its story from the foundation up!
• Murals cover the walls in the children's area. I attempted to take photos, but they do not even begin to do justice. 
• The circulation-reference desk features a mural of the islands. 
• Over the years, I have visited and toured a great deal of libraries. I must admit that never before have I experienced a library like Les Cheneaux Community Library. If you are ever in the Cedarville area, I highly recommend stopping by. Please take a moment to view the slideshow.
• If I lived closer, I would certainly be applying for a job at this library after I finish library school!

Les Cheneaux Community Library


Road Trip!