The availability of online library information and resources are quickly becoming essential public library services. The Indiana State Library is launching Access Point to provide free high-quality and functional websites to public libraries. The program includes many features that will make maintaining a website simple and painless, and the State Library will provide an initial template, training, and assistance.
Public library standards are currently being updated and it is expected that new standards will require that public libraries have a functional website. Access Point is a simple and cost-effective solution to not only meet this standard, but put you ahead of the curve by connecting your community to innovative and practical online library services.
The program is currently for public libraries without an online presence and those having difficulty maintaining their existing site. Qualifying libraries have already been contacted about the program. After this initial group is complete the State Library will take applications from other public libraries wishing to upgrade their current website.
To learn more about the program visit www.in.gov/library/accesspoint.htm.
I-LLID Fellow to Receive Extreme Home Makeover
Bernard McFarland of Indianapolis, a 2009 Indiana Librarians Leading in Diversity (I-LLID) fellow, has been chosen to receive an “Extreme Home Makeover.” Mr. McFarland is in the first year of the MLS program at IU-SLIS in Indianapolis. He is also a single father of three who works as a computer specialist for Marshall High School and mentors children.
According to an Indy Star article, Estridge Homes is building the home for the McFarland family. The builder also is creating a one-room library and resource center next to the home so McFarland has extra space for his mentor activities. Additionally, Estridge president, Paul Estridge, took the job on the condition that he would help the whole neighborhood, not just one family. With the help of volunteers, Estridge plans to demolish vacant houses, renovate neighboring homes, clean streets, pave alleys and plant trees in McFarland’s surrounding community.
Mr. McFarland’s new home will be the subject of the Extreme Makeover: Home Edition season finale set to air May 17, 2009.
Library Network Merger Official: Indiana Now Member of Lyrasis
The PALINET-SOLINET merger is official as the new organization, Lyrasis, became effective today. The nation’s leading library cooperative also has a new website, www.lyrasis.org, so please check out what’s new online and update your favorites and bookmarks accordingly. Designed to be user-friendly and member-focused, the Lyrasis website offers new benefits and services developed with members in mind.
Lyrasis was established in 2009 by the merger of PALINET and SOLINET, a move that was unanimously recommended by both Boards and overwhelmingly (over 95%) approved by members of both networks. The impetus for the merger was the recognition of the shared mission of both organizations and the unprecedented opportunities to expand education, leadership development, technology, and savings for members, while adding critical new initiatives needed for the future.
The current membership of Lyrasis is 4,012 libraries and cultural heritage organizations of all types and sizes – academic, research, public, school, corporate, medical, law, and special – located in twenty-three states, including Indiana, the Caribbean, Puerto Rico, and in three other countries. Lyrasis serves nearly a third of US states and welcomes new members from anywhere in the world.
Lyrasis headquarters are in Atlanta, GA, with an office in Philadelphia, PA. Leadership consists of a Chief Executive Officer and a President, held by Kate Nevins and Cathy Wilt respectively. The Board of Trustees consists of 15 members – 7 each from the Boards of SOLINET and PALINET and one additional member to be appointed by the Lyrasis Board.
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