About LTLS Members

Library A Week

2009-12-16T15:54:46-06:00

Central High School Library

2009 no. 22

Library Profile

Library Name: Central High School Library
Location: 610 W. University, Champaign, IL
Type: School
Mission: Central High School Library seeks to support the school's learning community by insuring equal access to the library and its resources.
Website: http://www.centralmc.org
LTLS Directory Page: http://www.lincolntrail.info/yln.html
LTLS Member Since: 1986

An interview with Librarian, Corinne Hatcher.

What is unique about your library?

Before the semester started, we moved the fiction collection to the front of the library. While this may not be unique from a public library standpoint, it is unique for our library. We have noticed the fiction collection circulating more, as well as seeing more students in the library. With more students coming into the library it is hard for us to police the computers. We have taken down the "rules" signs and have put more responsibility into the students' hands to make the right decisions when using the computers.

What are the primary goals and objectives of your library?

Our goal is always to assist students and staff to identify, locate, evaluate, and use needed materials in a variety of formats. At the same time, we strive to provide an open environment where students feel free to inquire about the world around them and positively engage with that world to become informed and responsible citizens. We want to get more students into the library and make it a friendlier place for them, a place where they can feel comfortable, a social learning zone.

What cooperative efforts are you currently doing?

This year, the literacy coach at the school and I have teamed up to create a class for freshman. It is one class period, and by the end of the year, each freshman will have taken it. The course is to help give the students the tools they need for learning and researching. We spent time teaching the students about finding reliable resources online, copyright and plagiarism. It was nice cooperating with the teachers and the literacy coach. Our students also take advantage of LTLS interlibrary loan.

Tell us a story about your library.

This is my first year as the librarian at CHS. Before the semester started, I decided to hold a Library Work Day. I wanted to move the fiction collection to the front of the library and give students a new, more comfortable library. I was so happy to see all the different librarians and library supporters who showed up to help. I think that there needs to be more support between libraries, by having librarians actually attend events at other libraries. This gives librarians a chance to socialize and network, while seeing the spaces others have worked to create.

If money were no object, what services would you add?

The first thing I would do would be to get all new furniture for the library. One of my goals is to make it a more friendly place, and comfy chairs and coffee tables would help that goal. Since so many of the students are coming to the library on their lunch, I would love to get some cafe style furniture for the entry hall into the library where students could eat. I would love to have a mural commissioned to cover up the server room in the middle of the library. I would spend more money updating and adding to the non-fiction collection. It would also be great to have authors visit and talk with the students.

What is popular in your library?

The computers are probably the most used item in the library, but I would like to think that my personality is as popular. I think our library is a popular spot because it is a great space to be in. It has big windows and skylights to allow in natural light. It is one of the newer remodeled spaces in the school. I would say students like the space, the computers, and me!

How does your library use online tools to connect to your users?

We have a library website. We use Booklist for parents. I have a PageFlakes account that I use to set up resources for classes, so all their resources can be found on one page. I have plans over the break to create a Facebook fan page for the library.

Request a visit to your library
If you would like to set up a special date for us to visit your library contact LTLS Consultant Michelle Ralston

Library of the Week
is published by Lincoln Trail Libraries System,
1704 W. Interstate Dr., Champaign, IL 61822
217-352-0047 - ltls@lincolntrail.info

Executive Director: Jan Ison,

Editorial and Design Team: Michelle Ralston and David Lottes

Two successful library programs

2009-12-16T11:53:57-06:00

Dennis Reedy of the Ministerial Alliance Food and Clothing Center and Alissa Tipton are seen with some of the non-perishable food items collected by Marshall Public Library through their annual Food for Fines program in November. The food was donated to the center to benefit needy families in the community and $615 in patron library fines was waived in exchange for the food.

The recent All Aboard the Polar Express program at Marshall Public Library included an imaginary ride on the train, complete with hot cocoa, a punched ticket, while the story was read with shadowing casting.

Several boys ages 6 through 11 also enjoyed chatting with Santa before departing with a silver bell.

Free Computer Classes at Marshall Public Library

2009-12-15T17:03:09-06:00

Marshall Public Library, 612 Archer Avenue, Marshall, has scheduled free computer classes for the first quarter of 2010.

Because of space limitations, persons interested in attending a class are asked to come to the library and pay a $10 cash deposit to reserve a place in each of the classes. The deposit will be returned when the class is attended. Deposits may be refunded if cancellations are made three or more days in advance. Please call the library at (217) 826-2535 for more information.

The following classes will be offered:

"Introduction to Computers" –Thursday, January 14, 6:00-7:30 PM
Items covered in this class include identification of basic computer components, correct procedure in starting up and closing down your PC, how to start programs using the Start menu and icons, mouse functions, etc. **"Introduction to Computers I" is a pre-requisite for all other classes.

"Introduction to Computers II" (Intermediate) – Saturday, January 30, 10:30 AM to Noon
Topics covered will include installing and deleting programs, creating folders and subfolders, installing shortcuts, and using other features of Windows XP to personalize your desktop.

“Introduction to Microsoft Word” – Thursday, February 11, 6:00-7:30 PM
Learn the basics of word processing using Microsoft Word, including opening Word from the Windows screen and Start menu, naming and saving word processing files, entering and modifying text, cutting and pasting text in your document, and inserting clip art.

“Introduction to Online Library Resources” – Wednesday, February 24, 1:00-2:30 PM
Learn about the library’s online databases and catalog by exploring our homepage. There will be instruction on using the Horizon online catalog from any computer to search for and order library materials. Get a quick overview of HeritageQuest Online, Gale Virtual Reference Library, MyMediaMall, AskAway, and NetLibrary eBooks.

“Intermediate Word” – Saturday, February 27, 10:30 AM to Noon
Learn more about how to format documents in Microsoft Word. There will be instruction on creating labels and envelopes, as well as how to create columns, borders and more.

"Introduction to the Internet" – Thursday, March 11, 6:00-7:30 PM
This class will be an introduction to the basics of using the Internet, including searching, accessing a page on the web with a URL address, printing information from the Internet, and copying documents form the Internet to a word processing program.

“Introduction to E-Mail” – Saturday, March 27, 10:30 AM to Noon
This workshop will provide a basic introduction to using generic e-mail accounts, which can be accessed from any computer that is connected to the Internet, including instruction on how to send attachments and photos, and more.

Calendar of Events at the Tolono Public Library

2009-12-15T09:22:57-06:00

The January Calendar of Events for Tolono Public Library is now available at: http://www.tolonolibrary.org/calendar.html

Hoopeston library plans children's program

2009-12-15T09:10:15-06:00

The Hoopeston Public Library and the University of Illinois Coopertive Extension-Vermilion County Unit will present “Gifts in a jar,” a free hands-on children’s Christmas craft program on Tuesday, Dec. 22, at the library, 110 N. Fourth St.

Kids ages 5-13 will be able to make hot chocolate mix and cookie mix gift jars, reindeer food and some other surprises.

There will be two sessions, one at 10:30 a.m. and the other at 1:30 p.m. Participation is limited to 30 people per session, so pre-registration is requested.

For more information, or two register, call the library at 283-6711. Sign up for one session only.

Lanham ready to accept research, creativity awards

2009-12-11T09:14:03-06:00

The Booth Library's new program Awards for Excellence in Student Research and Creativity is offering awards to students with creative and original pieces of work.

The program is designed to recognize excellence in student work and is open to all majors and both undergraduate and graduate students. Submissions for the program do not have to be related to class work. They can be a piece of music, a documentary, an exhibit, and other pieces of work.

"We want these awards to have significance in student life at Eastern," said Allen Lanham, dean of library services at Booth Library. "We want to give students another way to be honored for their hard work and for them to have the opportunity for enrichment of their resumes."

Monetary awards, certificates and honorable mention awards will be given to students who enter. Along with a possible monetary award, students may be selected to have their work displayed in the library's student research digital collection.

The library does not have a specified number of awards it will be giving out.
"We may award two students, we may award five," Lanham said.

The submissions must have been completed in the year that they were submitted. Along with the piece of work, the student must include an evaluation of the piece of work and how they were influenced by Library Services such as the database, graphics, musical scores and so on.

The recipients of the awards will be decided by a committee composed of the library advisory, professors from each of the colleges, Student Government representatives and representatives from each of the vice presidencies. Other experts may be brought in to judge material as well.

"This is another way to help propel the careers of young scholars and artists on Eastern's campus," Lanham said.

Students may submit their work up until April 1, 2010. The recipients of the awards will be announced during National Library Week in April.

Application forms for the program may be found on the Booth Library Web site.

Library A Week

2009-12-09T10:47:48-06:00

Paris Carnegie Public Library

2009 no. 21

Library Profile

Library Name: Paris Carnegie Public Library
Location: 207 South Main Street, Paris, IL 61944
Type: Public
Mission: Paris Carnegie Public Library provides materials and services to help residents of the community obtain personal and educational information.
Website: http://www.parispubliclibrary.org
LTLS Directory Page: http://www.lincolntrail.info/pan.html
LTLS Member Since: 1966

An interview with Librarian, Teresa Pennington.

What is unique about your library?

Our building is 105 years old. It is listed on the National Register of Historical Buildings. We have had people come into the library because they told us they had driven by the night before and it was so beautiful all lit up. In 1992 we finished an addition, which gave us more space and helped us to be handicapped accessible. When adding on to the building, we made sure to keep the same Carnegie feel, using wood trim and matching the windows.

What are the primary goals and objectives of your library?

We do the best with what we have to provide the services that meet our patrons' needs. We try to keep up with the materials and services that people are asking about. We are starting a book club in the library, because patrons have been asking for it. We also added a coupon sharing box from a patron recommendation. We are currently focusing on raising matching funds for the Gates computer grant. We are halfway to the first phase match.

What cooperative efforts are you currently doing?

We do a lot of cooperation. We have a legal self-help station thanks to Edgar County Legal Aid. We have a compact fluorescent bulb recycling bin thanks to EnerStar, a local utility company. We work with Lakeland College and the adult education programs. One of the elementary schools gives us a copy of every textbook for students to use in the library in case they forget their copy at school. We partner with the Marion Carnegie Library and as a result we have a small Japanese language collection. This spring we are going to be part of the Vigo County/Terre Haute Big Read. We are always interlibrary loaning books to and from other libraries thanks to LTLS.

Tell us a story about your library.

Recently, we had a young patron who had his first chance to explore the library without being in his stroller. He went around the library saying hello to everyone and “driving” his truck around the library. It was great to see him (and his mother) so comfortable in the library. Another one of the highlights of the library for the children is the elevator. There are only 3 buildings with public elevators and the other two are the hospital and the courthouse. It is definitely a very popular thing at our library. Since it was added, I have heard many children refer to it as the alligator. I think that it would be great to paint an alligator around the frame of the elevator coming out to the children’s department.

If money were no object, what services would you add?

I could really use more staff, more space, and more parking. More staff would allow me to do more programming. I would love to have a staff member dedicated to computer training and upkeep. Our computers were used over 13,000 times last year. It would be helpful to have more computers to offer our patrons.

What is popular in your library?

The computers and the wi-fi are probably the most popular thing in our library. As far as the collection goes, our large print materials are most popular, followed closely by DVDs.

How does your library use online tools to connect to your users?

We have a website and use Book Letters to help promote our collection. We send a monthly newsletter through email. We also have a Facebook page.

Request a visit to your library
If you would like to set up a special date for us to visit your library contact LTLS Consultant Michelle Ralston

Library of the Week
is published by Lincoln Trail Libraries System,
1704 W. Interstate Dr., Champaign, IL 61822
217-352-0047 - ltls@lincolntrail.info

Executive Director: Jan Ison,

Editorial and Design Team: Michelle Ralston and David Lottes

All Aboard the Polar Express at Marshall Public Library!

2009-12-08T11:21:19-06:00

Boys ages 6 years and older are invited to come to Marshall Public Library for a Polar Express themed holiday celebration on Tuesday, December 15th, 2009, from 3:30-4:30 PM.

Experience the Polar Express with a magical ride through this heartwarming holiday story by author Chris Van Allsburg, enjoy a reindeer craft that is festive enough to eat, and take home a Polar Express activity booklet. You may even wear your pajamas if you would like in honor of the story’s main character. And be ready for a visit from a special visitor clad in red before you go home!

Space is very limited, so please register early. For more information or to register for this free program, please call the library at 217/826-2535 or visit us at www.marshallillibrary.com. The library is located at 612 Archer Avenue in Marshall, Illinois, and is handicapped accessible. Kindly allow 48 hours notice if special arrangements are needed.

Danville Library Hosts Holiday Celebration for Kids December 12th

2009-12-08T09:05:43-06:00

The Danville Public Library Children’s Department will host a free Holiday Celebration for children on Saturday, December 12, from Noon to 1 p.m. The celebration will be held in the first floor Meeting Room.

The celebration will include stories, a holiday craft, a Christmas movie, singing by several children’s choirs in the community, a puppet show, and a special appearance by Santa.

The library is located at 319 N. Vermilion Street. It is open Monday through Thursday, from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Friday and Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. The library’s website is www.danville.lib.il.us. Anyone may use the library’s materials and services in the building without a library card. Persons wishing to borrow library materials must obtain a library card. The library honors cards from all Illinois public libraries

Library Continues Book/Film Series December 14th with "A Midnight Clear"

2009-12-07T11:44:03-06:00

The Danville Public Library continues its Great Books to Great Films series on Monday, December 14 at 6:30 p.m. with a free showing of the 1992 war drama A Midnight Clear in the first floor meeting room.

Set in the final days of World War II, A Midnight Clear focuses on a small American intelligence unit that encounters a German platoon in the Ardennes Forest. A truce is forged allowing both sides to celebrate Christmas together, but the tides of war soon change and the fragile peace explodes into violence. William Whartons 1982 novel was adapted for the screen and directed by Keith Gordon and stars Peter Berg, Kevin Dillon, Ayre Gross, Ethan Hawke, and Gary Sinise. The film is rated R for language and violence.
The screening is free and open to the public, and no registration is required. Copies of the book may be borrowed from the library for free or may be purchased at the Checkout Desk through an arrangement with the Village Mall Waldenbooks.

The screening is the eighth in the librarys year-long book-to-film series. Each month, participants read a classic novel and view a film adaptation of that book. All screenings begin at 6:30 p.m. on the second Monday of each month, with informal discussion immediately following the movies facilitated by library staff. The series is made possible by a grant from the Danville Library Foundation.

For more information, contact the Audiovisual Department at (217) 477-5224 or visit www.danville.lib.il.us/booktofilm.htm for a schedule of upcoming screenings and links about the selections. The Library is located at 319 N. Vermilion St. in Danville. Library hours are Monday-Thursday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Friday-Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. The library website address is www.danville.lib.il.us. Anyone may use the librarys materials and services in the building without a library card. Persons wishing to borrow library materials must obtain a library card. The library honors cards from all Illinois public libraries.