Directory of academic library newsletters

contributed by Michael G. at 04:23 PM on March 24, 2004.

ALiNUS is a directory of academic library newsletters. I've just come across it (after somehow finding it in my bookmarks), and it has already proved to be a great resource for environmental scanning of academic libraries, ideas for programs, and job postings. While not entirely comprehensive, the database already includes 600+ links, which are checked monthly for freshness.

Effective Practices Clearinghouse

contributed by Michael G. at 02:23 PM on March 11, 2004.

ACRL's Effective Practices Clearinghouse is now ready to accept your submissions

The goal of the Effective Practices Clearinghouse is to recognize effective practices in academic libraries in areas such as programs, services, facilities, technology, and initiatives and share them so they are accessible to academic librarians and the entire education community.

This is a wonderful project, just getting off the ground. I don't have any experience to prove otherwise, but I get the distinct impression that thos in the information professions are much more willing to share their experience and expertise with others. Perhaps it is because one library doesn't compete with another library the same way that one auto manufacturer competes with another auto manufacturer. Perhaps it is because our relationship with our patrons is all about sharing information. Whatever the reason, the level of cooperation is a beautiful thing.

Job announced in wrong section

contributed by Kaura G. at 10:57 AM on February 12, 2004.

I will get the hang of moveable type, but until then check out this position

The Greenblatt Library of the Medical College of Georgia seeks candidates for the position of Head, Education and Information Services. The person in this position is responsible for managing public services and personnel. Other responsibilities include maintaining and marketing excellent library customer services and ongoing development and training of staff. Works closely with Heads of Collection and Technology Services and Assistant Director for Library Operations to assess, plan and implement educational and informational services for users. Participates in strategic planning for the Library as a member of the Library Management Council.

Web-based learning opportunities

contributed by Michael G. at 05:49 PM on February 11, 2004.

I've never paritipated in fully online distance-learning coursework. Knowing my personality, I don't think I'd get as much out of it as I should. However, if you are the person who could make online learning work for you, perhaps you should look into taking classes the through the Association of Research Libraries Office of Leadership and Management Services (OLMS) Online Lyceum (there's a mouthful).

They offer a number of courses, including Professional Writing, Measuring Library Service Quality, Fund Development, and more. Check out their calendar for a full list of courses available.

Ask and ye shall find

contributed by Michael G. at 05:05 PM on February 10, 2004.

Someone arrived at the site looking for information about DSpace. Here some is.

DSpace is two very interesting and useful things - first, it is a way for faculty, staff, and students at MIT to leverage the intellectual property produced by the school to best serve the needs of the school. Secondly, it is an open-source software tool developed by MIT that will allow other universities to do the same.

You'll probably want to read more about DSpace yourself.

Napster; an academic database?

contributed by Thomas L. at 10:19 AM on February 08, 2004.

Here is an interesting development; Univ. of Rochester has purchased access to the Napster (now owned by Roxio) Network and is offering use of it to students for free. I am not sure if this is a forward thinking act by an insightful university, or a desparate marketing ploy by an irrelevant company, but it certainly changes the meaning of an 'academic database.' I wonder when Harvard is going to buy the Apple Itunes Music Store?