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neXt 2005: ALIA National Library and Information Technicians ConferenceAbstracts
YOUR CAREER TOOLKIT Abstract to come Della Aynsley is the Staff Development and Training Coordinator for the University of Sydney Library. In this role, she provides staff development and career coaching support to Library staff. She has previously worked as the Learning and Development Coordinator with the Staff Support and Development Unit, providing individual career coaching and career development training to the broader University staff population. She has worked in the Higher Education sector since 2000 and has over 9 years experience in the Human Resources Development field across the Higher Education and Federal Public Service sectors. Return to Program
EXERCISING AGENCY: HARNESSING AND MANAGING STRESS It is important for both managers and employees to acknowledge that a job is a place in which to grow! In recognising this important fact, workers at all levels will be provided with challenges and the support from colleagues to meet those challenges.
During their journey, workers will have to face positive and negative
stressors and how they deal with these will impact upon their growth.
This workshop will:
By the end of the workshop, participants will be able to: After many years as a mental health nurse, Jean worked as a Senior Library Technician at the University of Sydney Library and was also actively involved in ALIA and in publishing Library Technician literature. She left library work in 1999 and ran her own business offering academic support services, mainly in the health field, until 2003 when she retired. Return to Program
POWERFUL PARTNERSHIPS The purpose of this paper is to focus on the role libraries and library professionals can and do play within the community. Everyone is aware that one of the main responsibilities of information professionals is the provision of access to information. Libraries have supported literacy education in the community through the provision of teaching resources, study space, as well as information and reference services. This paper will discuss and outline the skills required, both professional and otherwise, to enable information professionals to build sustainable links with the community as well as their immediate users. It will use experience gained from the tri-school community links initiative, as well as the educational framework currently being established by Wyndham Library Service. Tania has been working at Wyndham Library for the past 6 years. During this period she also worked as a cataloguer at a local primary school, as the Werribee/Wyndham Heritage Project Officer and this year as a Community Links Project Officer, building sustainable links between the community, local businesses and three disadvantaged schools. Return to Program
'CAN I HAVE MY FAMILY TREE?' ANSWERING THOSE IMPOSSIBLE QUESTIONS WITH A SMILE! Do you feel at the end of your working day that you would like to gather all those pesky family historians together and lock them away so they will not ask any more difficult questions? That if they tell you one more time that three x Great Grandma Whoever was related to Sir Walter Scott and insist you listen to every single detail about her family, you might scream?? Don't worry, help is on the way! Library patrons appear to have a growing interest in family, local and social history and expect a certain level of assistance. Our library technician training has not specifically covered these areas, yet it seems that in our daily jobs we are expected to know where best to find the information they are seeking. A quick survey has indicated that many of us are not given any on-the-job training but instead are left to our devices. Despite being among the most resourceful people around, we still need some guidance to find the best path through the family history maze. This workshop is designed to provide an awareness of the range of genealogical and historical resources available both in Australia and overseas. It will provide you with access to the best websites and some knowledge of what they do. It will also cover the type of information held by government departments, provide a forum so you can continuenetworking long after returning home from the conference, and give you access to sample charts and guides. 15 years with TAFE as a Library Technician, extra casual work and teaching since 1992, has kept Kerrie continuously upgrading. After touring the UK, she began writing and delivering classes for Adult Education on the family tree, then taught basic digital equipment classes. Kerrie is also a partner in a business providing digital services to family historians. Return to Program
STORYTIME PARTNERSHIPS: MAKING SOMETHING OUT OF NOTHING From pooper scoopers to paper recycling, from worm farms to walk signs, from microchips to minibeasts, storytime partnerships cover a range of unusual and interesting subjects. This paper looks at ways to add value to your preschool story time program by creating partnerships with local and state government departments. You have a committed group of children and parents and governments have key information they want to get out to the community. How can you work together to benefit everyone? How can you delight your preschoolers, impress their parents, increase your circulation statistics, raise your profile with your funding body and not spend any extra money? Partnerships provide mutually beneficial ways to meet these challenges. Fairfield City Library Service has successfully developed, run and evaluated storytime partnerships over the past few years and has built a practical program which is easily transferable to other local government areas. Carolyn's career has been largely in public libraries, although she has worked as a Toy Library Co-ordinator and in a school. She co-ordinates programs and resources for 0 -18 year olds. Over the last couple of years Carolyn has run programs such as the Homework Centre, Family Literacy, English the movie, HSC lectures, Online Homework Help and Babytime. Return to Program
A LIBRARY TECHNICIAN'S EXPERIENCE - CELEBRATING 30+ YEARS OF CHANGE:
A PERSONAL REFLECTION In this paper Libby discusses her changing role as a Library
Technician and her eXperiences with the changes in information delivery
and supply of services over the previous 3 decades. In 1974 Libraries
were very different. There were no: The loans system was manual, Interlibrary loan requests were done on a multi-part form and took weeks or months to arrive. Journal articles were sourced through SAAL and SALSSAH, which were updated manually. Library Technicians were employed in clerical positions and there were no Library Technicians' Groups. Journals and books took months to arrive from overseas. Books were processed manually, item records were on a 3" x 5" catalogue card and filed above the rod, and Dewey was the classification system of the day. Patrons with disabilities were seldom seen in libraries. This paper will reflect the eXperiences of change and celebrate the achievements of a long serving Library Technician. Libby graduated as a Library Technician in 1973 and upgraded in 1994. Her career started at Box Hill/Doncaster regional library, then Chisholm Institute of Technology. Now at Deakin University since 1974, Libby is responsible for the supervision of all functions of the loans desk, including reader education classes. She also participates in the interviewing and selection of library staff. Return to Program
THE ORIGIN OF THE MODERN LIBRARY BY MEANS OF NATURAL SELECTION or THE PRESERVATION OF
FAVOURED PLACES IN THE STRUGGLE FOR CUSTOMERS The traditional library, like any endangered species must either adapt to its changing environment or survive only in a zoo. The title of this paper paraphrases Charles Darwin’s famous treatise on Evolution, it discusses the particular challenges which face public libraries.Ensuring that our buildings have the ability to adapt to changing needs over their foreseeable life means that we as building designers have to have an understanding of long term community trends and how they will affect the usage requirements for our buildings. By its nature this discussion is an informed guess at best although according to that old unsourced maximum: When referring to the future, even wild exaggerations will fall short of reality. Luckily a rosy future awaits! Ian Brewster is the Principal and Design Director of Brewster Hjorth Architects. His firm has completed over 25 Public, Government and University Library projects over the last 10 years. Recently they have won a number of awards for outstanding architectural, civic and environmental design. Return to Program
ABORIGINAL FAMILY & LOCAL HISTORIES:PRACTICAL ADVICE FOR LIBRARY WORKERS As more and more Aboriginal communities are beginning to see the benfit of libraries as knowledge centres and keeping places, library workers require the skills and knowledge needed to assist their research. This presentation will look at practical ways that libraries can help Aboriginal family & local historians. We believe that local libraries already hold a great deal of information relevant to Aboriginal researchers, it's just a matter of knowing where to look. Ronald Briggs (Kamilaroi) & Melissa Jackson (Bundjalung) have worked as Indigenous Services Librarians at the State Library of New South Wales since 1991. Ronald has also worked at the Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies and Melissa for State Records of New South Wales. They have a wealth of experience in providing relevant service to Indigenous peoples in libraries and archives. Return to Program
CHANGING ROOMS; REDESIGNING LIBRARY SPACE TO INCORPORATE CHANGING USER BEHAVIOURS Computer advances in software and hardware as well as the increasing delivery of courses online has lead to a profound change in the behaviour of academic library users. Access to monograph collections is becoming less important while access to space for group study and computer workstations is growing in importance. Academic libraries today are integrating workstations alongside the book stacks and investing in wireless network technology to match the study patterns of their students. This paper describes the strategies that Curtin University library has initiated, at its Bentley Campus, to respond to the changing learning and study needs of its students. Bonnie Rae Bruce has worked at Curtin University since 1999. She has also been President and Convenor of the WA Library Technicians Section. Currently she is editor of Biblia". Bonnie Rae completed her Bachelor of Science (Library Technology) in 2003 and has embarked on a Graduate Diploma of Information Studies at Curtin. Return to Program
IFLA AND ITS THREE PILLARS: MAKING A DIFFERENCE GLOBALLY As the global organisation for libraries and information services, IFLA represents to the world community the interests of the sector, those who work in it and its clients. This emphasis is shown in IFLA's three pillars" - Society, Profession and Members - and has been demonstrated through IFLA's activities. Examples include the work of the IFLA Core Activity on Free Access to Information and Freedom of Expression, its interventions in the World Summit on the Information Society and in the World Intellectual Property Organisation, its long term work on standards and protocols, and its response to disasters such as the 26 December 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami. This is engaging work which offers implications and opportunities for all of us in the field. Dr Alex Byrne is the President-elect 2003-2005 of the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA - http://www.ifla.org), will be President 2005-2007 and chaired IFLA's Committee on Free Access to Information and Freedom of Expression 1997-2003. He has led the development of a number of IFLA statements and declarations, including the IFLA Internet Manifesto, the Glasgow Declaration on Libraries, Information Services and Intellectual Freedom and the IFLA Statement on Open Access to Scholarly Literature and Research Documentation. Alex is the University Librarian and a Deputy Chair of the Academic Board at the University of Technology, Sydney where he also chairs the Emerging Fields Advisory Committee which scopes potential disciplinary areas for the University. Return to Program
SERVICE WITH A SMILE ONLY GETS YOU SO FAR: STAFF TRAINING FOR
SUCCESS IN THE INTEGRATED SERVICE ENVIRONMENT Training staff in the skills and knowledge needed to operate effectively in contemporary libraries is a common challenge. Staff are expected to use an increasing range of technology to answer questions on any topic, and to maintain a customer-friendly manner throughout. At the USQ Library, this situation is further complicated by the fact that 80% of all library staff are involved in client service roles. Many of these staff operate across three different service points: Information Desk, Loans Desk and a telephone service point for off-campus students. The library has developed a competency-based, staff-driven internal training program to equip staff with the necessary knowledge and skills to deliver quality customer service in this integrated environment. This paper will explore the development of the USQ Library training program from inception to delivery, and discuss issues such as: identification of key competencies, creation of training modules, gaining staff and managerial support, and timing of training to support current work demands. The paper will also evaluate the impact of the training program on staff confidence and service delivery and highlight plans for the future. Mandy Callow has worked in Libraries for 15 years and is responsible for Loans and Information Services to on campus clients, as well as management of Lending Services and responsibility for Library Marketing. Her previous work experience includes Library Officer positions within Reference and Lending Services at USQ and with the Albert Shire Library Service at the Gold Coast. Debbie Mulholland commenced her current role as Library Officer (Client Services) at the University of Southern Queensland Library in September 2003. Among other duties, she is responsible for co-ordinating internal library staff training. Debbie was previously employed in a frontline service position as a Library Assistant with Maroochy Libraries. Return to Program
THE NEVER ENDING STORY - TECHNOLOGY AND TRAINING FOR LIBRARY PERSONNEL
How do you : Karen has been in public libraries for 15 years, from casual Library Assistant to Senior Technician. In 1998 she received an Associate Diploma of Science and in 2002 became a qualified website engineer. She now spends a great deal of time training library staff and customers and council staff in a wide range of technology products. Return to Program
MY JOB, MY CAREER!
Have you found yourself unable to see your way out of the section/library/position you are in?
We will explore these questions and more - and identify possible strategies and people who can help. Carolyn spent a 20 + year career in the library an information sector, working in special libraries, subscription agencies and as the Manager, Member Services for ALIA. Carolyn is a strong advocate for library technicians and what they can achieve - should they wish to. She is currently the Business Services Team Leader and Compliance Leader for GE Infrastructure Water & Process Technologies. Carolyn holds a Library Technician Certificate, a BA in Asian Studies and an MBA with a sub-major in International Business. Return to Program
EXTREME SEARCHING: FINDING IT ON THE INTERNET This hands-on workshop will take participants beyond Google to the deep or invisible web. Participants may wish to brush up their skills by completing a searching tutorial, such as the Pandia Goalgetter: a short and easy internet search tutorial, before attending the workshop. Judy is the coordinator of undergraduate library courses, including library technician courses, at Edith Cowan University in Perth. Judy is always happy to attend the National Library Technician Conferences. As she is completing a PhD in history, writing about library technicians,you may find yourself being questioned by Judy about your work experience! Return to Program
WE'RE A MOTLEY LOT: YESTERDAY,TODAY AND TOMORROW Workers in the library and information sector in Australia may be described as 'a motley lot'. This paper outlines the experiences of a range of people working in the sector and offers an explanation for some of the 'turf wars' of the past and present. It suggests that a change of attitude may bring positive change in the future.. Judy is the coordinator of undergraduate library courses, including library technician courses, at Edith Cowan University in Perth. Judy is always happy to attend the National Library Technician Conferences. As she is completing a PhD in history, writing about library technicians,you may find yourself being questioned by Judy about your work experience! Return to Program
EXTRAORDINARY HAPPENINGS AND EXCELLENT CHANGES IN THE WINGECARRIBEE We have eXamined the way libraries are changing to fulfil new social and cultural contexts while dealing with pressure from competition and economic forces. So what has Wingecarribee done to reinvent itself, not only in service provision but also in terms of our library buildings and the ways in which our community and politicians view the library today? ... and then, what are our eXpectations for the future?
In developing our services we used the following four principles: This shire has three library branches and one mobile to service an area with a population of approximately 40,000 people. Our library users are, like most, diverse in their needs. We have radically changed our services and public perceptions. Participation in building communities has meant collaborating and forming partnerships and alliances to make Wingecarribee Libraries a highly visible and integral part of the community. We could no longer be a passive partner and have become a leading active partner driving change. ... As for our eXpectations for the future... Youth Libraries - The Coolness Factor: Imagine a Council facility reflecting a lifestyle approach to promote reading and learning among young adults; a Lifestyle Library aimed at information and leisure needs of young people and a location in town, somewhere to meet and socialise with quality service, technology, music, food, drink, study facilities and...books! That's our eXpectation... we have the area, we're just working on the development. Helen considers herself very fortunate to be part of the team implementing the many and eXciting changes. Life doesn't stay the same, so why should libraries? She loves her job and enjoys her work as every day brings something different, either from the team she works with or her customers, and for her that's what it's all about. Return to Program
LIFELONG LEARNING: EMBRACING CHANGE Library Technicians are faced with continuous learning throughout their careers. In a time of rapid change, successful learning is critical to excellence in job performance, levels of personal confidence and work enjoyment. Training to acquire new knowledge and skills is time-consuming and tedious if it does not facilitate meaningful learning, or fully engage the energy, enthusiasm and potential of the learner. New ideas and developments in understanding how we learn, together with the implications of current theories about different learning styles can be incorporated into new training options. Modes of delivery and attitudes both impact upon the effectiveness of the learning experience. This paper looks at some current examples of innovative learning approaches for library workers, and explores future developments and directions. Nicola Cross is currently Access Services Team Leader at the University of Canberra Library, ands teaches part time in the Canberra Institute of Technology's Library & Information Services program.. Return to Program
CREATING UNBELIEVABLE SERVICE Libraries have long known the value of delivering quality service to its customers, however, in today's increasingly competitive environment libraries need to ensure that they continue to 'delight' their customers and deliver unbelievable service.
This interactive workshop will explore strategies for creating
unbelievable service. These include
Lorraine Denny develops and delivers training programs to general and
academic staff. Programs developed and presented include management and
leadership, customer service, time management, career development,
communication, team building and quality management workshops. Lorraine
is a Library Technician with over 20 years of library experience. She
was awarded the ALIA Dunn and Wilson Scholarship in 1997.
Return to Program
BIBLIOGRAPHIC LINKING (ELECTRONIC RESOURCES) In January 2002, The University of Adelaide Libraries changed library systems from Dynix to Voyager (Endeavour). Since then, staff have been busy implementing many new functions that Voyager supports. One of these functions is Bibliographic Linking of Electronic Resources. Using the library's online catalogue, we are providing the user with a direct link to specific types of related electronic records. These include: 1. dataset titles - When an electronic journal is linked to the homepage of the provider/supplier and then links to other titles offered by that provider/supplier. 2. earlier and later titles - Titles change frequently. We provide a link to allow users to navigate from a previous electronic journal title to a more recent one or vice versa. 3. analytic linking - This provides links from the set record to all the individual titles and then from the individual title back to the set. Although there are several linking functions that the library has developed, this paper looks at two of these linking functionalities:
- Dataset linking; and We will demonstrate how we create these links using MARC tags within the Voyager Cataloguing Module and how this is accessed and displayed to the public on WebVoyage (the library's public catalogue). It is the library's aim to provide user-friendly access to the most current and related electronic journal information available. Sue Doyle has been employed since 1987 as a General Library Assistant. For 8 years she worked within the Lending Services Department before being transferred to Bibliographic Services then Supervisor in 1996. Since 2002 she has been working as the Electronic Resources Assistant (Copy Cataloguer). Sue graduated with an Associate Diploma of Library Studies in 1998. Kath McCulloch began employment in 1987 as a General Library Assistant. She has worked in Bibliographic Services, Lending Services, Music and Special Collections and in 1993 as Collection Supervisor. Kath was directly involved with the implementation of the Voyager Circulation System in 2002 and graduated with an Associate Diploma of Library Studies in 1997. Return to Program
DIGITISATION AT THE CYBRARY: PUTTING THE 'E' INTO COURSE MATERIALS
AND THE 'EXCELLENCE' INTO SERVICE At the beginning of 2002, staff at the University of Queensland Cybrary began the process of creating a digitised collection of course materials to enhance access to an existing print collection of photocopied journal articles and book chapters. Changes to copyright around this time allowed for scanning of book chapters and journal articles in limited quantities by educational institutions for teaching and learning purposes. To extend the Cybrary's course materials service and to ensure compliance with Copyright, the University established a centralised course materials server, to be managed by the Cybrary.
This paper outlines the proposal to create the online course materials
service for UQ academics and students and the project implementation
plan. This involved collaboration between librarians, library
technicians and library assistants and utilised the knowledge and skills
of staff from functional areas of the Cybrary, such as Information
Access Services and Library Technology Services. The paper further
explains the procedures used by library assistants to create access to
journal articles and book chapters online, enabling around-the-clock
accessibility to required course readings and other appropriate
in-demand course materials. Some related issues covered : More in the full paper... Anna Drew is a Library Assistant in the Social Sciences and Humanities Library at the University of Queensland. Anna is responsible for providing course materials for psychology and works with a dedicated team who provide a high standard of customer service. Anna is the winner of the QLD AGM Library Technician of the Year (Recent Graduate) Award. Ann Gray is currently Senior Library Technician in the Mater McCauley Hospital Library at the University of Queensland. Ann has been working in the library field for the past 14 years, working in the Public, Academic and Health libraries. Return to Program
IN-HOUSE TO OUT-HOUSE:ELECTRONIC JOURNAL MANAGEMENT CHANGES AT THE UNIVERSITY OF
TASMANIA LIBRARY There has been an evolution in the management of electronic serials at the University of Tasmania library. Initially, simple systems of recording and linking were used by staff who had other areas of responsibility. Technical services staff were dedicated to online resources as the intake of journals multiplied rapidly and their special requirements became apparent. However, many aspects of e-journal management cannot be recorded in the computer systems running modern libraries. Like others, the University of Tasmania library developed its own in-house management procedures. As electronic journals became more complex, so did our database of spreadsheets on them. These were not only our information repository but also the direct source for web page production and the basis of catalogue records. Continual flux in the resources and an expectation that the immediacy of electronic journals would be mirrored in their management led to constant updating. With consortial deals for publisher suites, the flow of electronic journals turned to a flood threatening to overwhelm staff capabilities and resources. Subscription to an electronic journals management system, Serials Solution, was seen as our solution. The implementation of this software package was planned, methodical and detailed to ensure information that had taken so long to acquire and verify was not lost. Now electronic journal web pages generated by Serials Solutions and hosted on their server integrate into our library's website. MARC records load directly from Serials Solutions into our Horizon database. Staff still investigate, record, and update but it is a much reduced burden. Diana made a career change from botanist to library worker by completing a technicians Diploma of Library and Information Management. She has worked at the University of Tasmania library for seven years, the last four in the world of electronic resources. A large garden and a small olive grove keep her feet on the ground. Return to Program
RFID STANDARDS IN THE LIBRARY ENVIRONMENT Abstract and bio to come Return to Program
MORPHING THE TECHNICIAN: WHERE NEXT?
Come to this practical, hands-on session that deals with the professional development of library technicians. This workshop will provide a forum that looks at how the library technician has morphed from the past to the present and looks to the future.
Following on from this discussion we will workshop the types of roles and functions filled by delegates attending the session. We will then look at how you can actively engage in your own professional development so you ensure that you continue to morph for the future. Delegates will be asked to help identify any existing gaps in professional development opportunities that ALIA may be able to fill through the library technician groups, developing ALIA workshops, or by further partnering with professional training providers or educational institutions. Join in to expand your future possibilities.... Rebecca started her career in the late 1970's at Canterbury Municipal Council in Sydney. She has gone on to work in various school, university, special and council libraries in both Victoria, N.S.W. and Tasmania. Currently Rebecca is employed at the Tasmania Fire Service Library and the Australian Education Union Library in Hobart and is the Group Convenor of ALIA National Library Technicians. Georgina is the Manager, Member services and groups liaison, at ALIA National Office. In this role she is responsible for ALIA’s professional development scheme and services, building a co-ordinated national professional development program, liaising with the volunteer committees for ALIA’s 60 special interest groups and the recruitment and retention of members. Return to Program
ALL ROADS LEAD TO ROME: CHANNELLING INTERCAMPUS, INTERLIBRARY, AND
OFF-CAMPUS REQUESTS THROUGH A SINGLE USER INTERFACE. The message from remote library clients is clear and unequivocal - they want material quickly and easily. They would prefer not to have to differentiate between the three library services of intercampus, interlibrary, or off-campus requests - they just want a particular document or book forwarded to them as soon as possible.
At the University of Southern Queensland Library, VDX software has been utilised to provide a single search and request interface for library material. Differentiating between individual clients, it displays and activates only those services for which a particular client is eligible. Remote undergraduates, for example, have the ability to search and request from USQ catalogue only, while those students eligible for interlibrary loans can search and initiate requests across a range of catalogues. Elizabeth Firman has worked in libraries for over 20 years in Victoria, NSW and Queensland. She completed her Graduate Diploma in Library Science in 1989 and has worked at the University of Southern Queensland as the Off-Campus & Document Delivery Coordinator since 1999. Kim Moore completed her Library Technician qualification in 1989 while working at Deakin University (Warrnambool) as the Audio Visual Technician. In 1997 she moved to Queensland and was employed at the University of Southern Queensland in the Library Circulation Dept. In 2003 she was appointed to the position of Library Officer in Off-Campus Services. Return to Program
EXOTIC EXPERIENCES IN CIRCULATION DESK MANAGEMENT What is the importance of the circulation desk? Too long has it been the Cinderella of the library world. Always hardworking, the lending services officer toils away at tasks often perceived as boring and mindless, never getting to go to the ball. The circulation desk is the heart and soul of the library experience for library borrowers. Long after they leave us the borrowers will remember how they were treated at the circulation desk. Operating a circulation desk requires a combination of tact, diplomacy, organisational skills, humour and a fine eye for detail. All this is needed to keep the desk flowing. Customer service is the by word of the lending services officers as they deal with the borrowers. The circulation eXperience should be placed on an equal level with all other library tasks, not assigned to the bottom of the list in importance as it so often is. How does the design of a circulation desk affect the circulation eXperience? Even after we have been involved in the design of a circulation desk, have you ever wished "if only we had...?" Sally and Robyn have many years of experience" in special and educational libraries and they will provide some strategies, from their eXperience, to help in the running of a circulation desk that provides not only the loans eXperience, but also the staffing of a bookshop, the conducting of library tours and the provision of basic training sessions. Sally Gissing has worked in libraries for 35 years, beginning at ACI Ltd, working in Acquisitions and Circulation, then at RMIT, first in the External Studies Library and then in the Reference section at the Central Library. Sally has been working at Box Hill TAFE for 18 years and currently manages the Engineering Branch Library. Robyn Hazlett has worked in libraries for 26 years, beginning as a Library Assistant at Preston TAFE, working in Technical Services, Periodicals, ILLs and Circulation. Robyn has been working at Box Hill TAFE for 14 years, is currently the Lending Services Officer at the Nelson Campus and also works at Blackburn Lake PS. Return to ProgramElliot Goblet is well known for his television appearances as a guest comedian on variety shows. However 90% of his work is as a corporate entertainer at events like conferences, product launches, dinners and client parties, where you'll see a more animated and more personable Elliot Goblet. Whether doing a 20 to 50 minute spot or acting as the MC, in total Elliot Goblet has done over 1000 of these events and his major strength is his ability to write some tailored material for each presentation after effi cient research into the industry, company or association, and the people who might be good comedy targets (if appropriate). Through his specifi c tailoring Elliot Goblet can provide his clients with solid benefits such as improvement in motivation and improvement in communication. Additionally he'll make a positive emotional impact and give his audiences plenty of laughs. Return to Program
NURSING MY AMBITION TO A LIBRARY TECHNICIAN: A PERSONAL ACCOUNT OF A
JOURNEY IN CHANGING CAREERS This paper will explore the development of a career in Library Technology from an unrelated industry. It will take you along a personal journey detailing the skills of the individual to accomplish a career ambition to enter the Library Industry. In this day of transient employment, not many of us end our career on the same path on which we started. Changing careers mid-stream is becoming more common, however, the skills and experience that we have gathered along the way are never wasted and are usually transferable. Recognising those skills and applying them to future goals, plays a major part in the success of such a transition. The perspective from which this paper is written is one of someone who has made the transition from a Mothercraft Nurse at age eighteen to Library Technician at the age of thirty-five, with details of experiences and insights. The paper will explore how the move back into the work force was accomplished, with little or no experience, into a newly chosen field, after spending 5 years at home as a domestic engineer, cooking, cleaning and caring for young children. It will also include insights learned on how to gain experience and make applying for that first job as a Library Assistant or as a Technician easier, including looking at the value of volunteer work. Kim Gosling has been in the workforce for 15 years. During this time she worked in varied professions from childcare and nursing to retail before finally settling in the library industry. Having successfully completed the Library Technician's course, she has gained experience in primary school, high school, public and academic libraries. Return to Program
EXPANDING TO THE OTHER SIDE: FROM WORKING AS TECHNICIANS TO TEACHING
NEW TECHNICIANS A change of career sometimes comes as a surprise. This is the story of two technicians' who suddenly found themselves moving to the other side", one after a long career in libraries and the other within a few years of the completion of her studies. Why the change? Libraries are a field where there is a great sense of accomplishment from helping others succeed and this is the same with teaching. The imparting of information and experience to students is both rewarding and demanding. Both technicians want to share their enthusiasm for libraries with students by being innovative in learning methods and keeping up with the rapid changes in technology. They have found watching the growth of students and the support and satisfaction of employers most gratifying. It is a career where new skills are developed and the need for lifelong learning is evident. As we juggle the preparation, the face-to-face classes, the externals, the marking and the never ending Administration we are just as busy as we were in the library just looking at it from a different view. Jill Heffernan graduated in 2001 and has worked in a range of libraries. Jill has suddenly found herself teaching all the things she has learnt along the way. She enjoys the variety of positions and the many opportunities that a Library Technician's position has to offer. Kaye Bartlett worked in the Technical Services area of an academic library for over 17 years before becoming Course Coordinator and Lecturer in July 2003. She served in various positions on ALIA committees from 1992 to 1998. Return to Program
MANAGING AND MOTIVATING DIFFERENT GENERATIONS AT WORK Increasingly, the “War for Talent” will not be about hiring the brightest young university graduates, it will simply be about how organisations attract and retain resources to do the work that needs to be done. In Australia, this is principally due to our declining birth rate and aging workforce creating significant shortages in human resources, now and in the future. Each Generation has a different set of values, and different views of career, training and development,family, work life balance, leadership and management.Further each Generation has different expectations of the workplace and their managers and leaders. For example what Generations X and Y want from organisations and leaders is different to what the current leadership models and styles have to offer, which is being driven by Veteran and Baby Boomer managers and leaders. This session delves into the unique challenges this presents to organisations, their managers and leaders, the implications for Australian workplaces and suggested solutions to address this. Avril Henry graduated from the University of Cape Town in Accounting and Economics,migrating to Australia in 1980, with two suitcases, $500 and a dream to live freely and make a difference. Avril’s career has spanned senior roles in Finance, IT Project Management, Change Management and HR. The companies she has worked for include De Beers, Barclays Bank,Midland Bank, UBS Warburg, Westpac, Merrill Lynch, DMR Consulting and Clayton Utz. She has worked in South Africa, Australia, the UK and USA. In 2003, she set up her own business, focusing on Public Speaking and Consulting in Leadership, People and Performance strategies, which includes Executive Coaching. Avril is a Fellow of CPA Australia, a member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors, Australian Institute of Management and the Australian Human Resources Institute. Currently she is Chairperson of the National Diversity Think Tank. Avril was one of three finalists in the 2004 Australian HR Awards for the Lifetime Achievement in HR Award; and in 2002, was one of the five finalists in the Australian HR Awards for Best HR Director. Avril was nominated in 1995 and 1996 for the Telstra Businesswoman of the Year. Avril is the author of “Leadership Revelations: An Australian Perspective”, released in March 2005. Return to Program
FLYING BLIND: THE PROVISION OF LIBRARY SERVICES TO
THE BLIND AND VISION IMPAIRED This paper examines how library services are delivered nationally to a community of clients of whom only 1% ever come and visit the library in person. The National Information Library Service delivers multiple formats to over 20,000 clients across Australia. It has a specialised Library Management System that builds profiles, selects reading materials for clients and effects the automatic circulation of materials to clients. The Library uses the Internet and telephone catalogues to facilitate discovery" and to convey information about content. This unique library has special relationships with vendors and publishers in order to provide accessible materials to those without sight simultaneously with print releases. This includes the unique challenges of delivery and return of library items in a cost effective and robust physical environment. It faces the challenge of moving from analogue to digital content and from bits to bytes for a community for whom reading is not recreational but essential. Rachel Johnson comes from a family of library professionals and has a decade's experience in non-profit and public libraries. She is an effective, intuitive trainer with a reputation for mentoring and supervising staff. Her forte is staff recruitment and effective utilization of volunteers and casuals in collection maintenance processes.
WHATS INSIDE THE BOX: PC FUTURES This talk will focus on the current trends in computer technology and how they relate to all environments. Steve will interpret the "technospeak" that surrounds computers and provide attendees with a clear picture on what to look for when purchasing this technology. Steve will also discuss some of the recent trends such as wireless and mobile technology and how they might relate to libraries. Steve King has worked in Education for over 20 years as a Classroom teacher, Computer Coordinator, Technology Trainer, Technology Adviser and most recently as a Business Development Manager for Australian IT Company, ASI Solutions. Steve has a solid understanding of the issues surrounding ICT in schools and is able to communicate these in a way that Librarians, Teachers and Administrators can appreciate. Return to Program
LIBRARIES AND THE BIG PICTURE: PARADISE LOST OR OPPORTUNITY KNOCKING? This presentation will explore opportunities that currently present themselves to the public library sector in terms of the significant contribution that libraries offer for community cultural development. For far too long, the library sector has been overlooked as a major player in community building despite the attributes that make libraries one of the most heavily utilised cultural institutions in Australia.
So what is holding libraries back? This paper will challenge the library sector, communities of interest, and all levels of government to rethink their perceptions of public libraries with a view to optimising the library sector for the benefit of all Australian communities. I have a longstanding commitment to the recognition and development of public libraries in New South Wales and throughout Australia. My employment has been primarily in the Local Government sector where I have held management positions in libraries and cultural services. I am currently employed as Director of the Riverina Regional Library, a large library service that serves 9 local government areas in southern NSW covering a geographic area of some 25,000 sq km. I am a member of the Library Council of NSW and Chairperson of the NSW Public Libraries Consultative Committee. I have a professional commitment and a personal interest in assisting in the development and maintenance of strong networks that promote equity of service provision and optimum lifestyle choices to rural and regional residents. I have been associated with a number of regional cultural and educational organisations as a Board of Management representative, am a keen house renovator and own a small business. (156) Return to Program
CUSTOMISING INFORMATION DELIVERY - PROFILE MATCH This presentation is on the Library and Information Centre's current awareness service on the Departmental Intranet - Profile Match. New material is displayed on the client's desktop immediately after being added into the catalogue. When clients wish to access the Departmental Intranet and/or the Library and Information Centre's site, clients are requested to first establish a profile. These details are stored in a database and are retrieved whenever a request for information is made. Library pages greet the client by their first name. The second part of the profile captures the subject keywords that the client would like to monitor through the Profile Match service. Keywords are selected by double clicking them and they move from the left hand box to the right. It is the reverse to de-select keywords. The keywords are quite broad to keep the list small and clients may amend their selection at any time as required. The Profile Match service is visible from the Library's homepage. Each time a client visits this page, a search of the library database occurs for new items added in the last seven days containing their nominated keywords. The catalogue is maintained on the Library & Information Centre's database - (TIMS) DB/Textworks and the search is performed automatically by way of a WebPublisher canned query. Robyn has spent the past 18 years doing various positions such as Inter Library Loans, Serials, Circulation, and Purchasing. Her expertise has also flowed onto a number of unique projects including the scanning of photographs and slides of the Housing Commission for inclusion on the Intranet OPAC. Return to Program
PARTICIPATIVE OR PARODY: LEADERSHIP FOR THE FUTURE Participative management and shared leadership are widely advocated in literature as important for organisational success. This paper will reflect on the divergence between theory and practice and argue in favour of enhancing leadership capacity at all library staffing levels. Personal attitudes and other factors, which militate against genuine participation, will be highlighted. Down to earth situation-specific strategies to promote genuine participation will be offered based on personal experience within hierarchically structured libraries in the university and commonwealth, state, and local government sectors. Julia Leong has leadership experience in university library reference departments and special libraries management. Currently she has responsibility at the University of New England University Library for reference, information literacy, faculty liaison, collection development and assessment, and client surveys. Her special interests are personnel management, working to integrate information literacy into the curriculum and traditional and electronic collection development. Return to Program
WHAT'S NEXT? - JOB ENHANCEMENT THROUGH A SHADOWING UP PROGRAM The University of Queensland Cybrary is committed to providing a range of staff development programs which enhance the skills and knowledge of all library staff. These programs include job exchanges, mentoring, shadowing and skills enhancement. As part of these staff development initiatives Library Technicians in the Physical Sciences and Engineering Library Service at the University of Queensland Cybrary are given the opportunity to embark on a pilot program to shadow professional librarians within their own Branch Library. The technicians already work and interact with these librarians, daily, through their normal duties. It is envisaged that by formalising a shadowing program, the technicians would gain hands-on skills and professional knowledge for the development of their future professional careers. This paper will discuss the staff development program for Library Technicians at the University of Queensland and will focus in particular on the pilot shadowing program. It will look at the program from its inception, as an idea to improve the working skills of an already highly multi-skilled team of technicians, through to the evaluation of the program. The paper will also outline other positive outcomes from the program for the Library Technicians and Librarians. Pauline supervises a team of multi-skilled Library Technicians who provide a subject discipline service. Pauline's recent past time is entering fun-runs, which she says is very much like giving conference papers - You feel terrible leading up to and during the event but the adrenalin rush you experience after a successful finish, makes you want to come back for more". Return to Program
LIBRARY VOLUNTEER IN TIMOR LESTE Marg spent nine weeks as a volunteer Librarian with the Commission for Truth and Reconciliation in Dili, East Timor, in early 2005. The experience gave Marg a stronger appreciation of the many things we take for granted in the western world as well as a small understanding of life in a developing country. After the departure of the Indonesians in 1999, libraries in East Timor were in a sorry state. Marg details some of the endeavours by both local and international organisations to re-establish the libraries, and talks of life as a volunteer in a third world country. Currently working in a single person public library branch in country Victoria, Marg has worked in a range of libraries in Melbourne over a number of years. A Library Technician, Marg is studying for her librarianship degree with Charles Sturt University via distance education. Return to Program
THE TEACHING RESOURCES LIBRARY AT CURTIN UNIVERSITY The Teaching Resources Library (TRL) is a branch of the main Curtin University Library located with the Department of Education to enable an easily accessible collection for the users it serves. The library has a specialised collection of educational material to be used in the classroom by student teachers. Approximately 35,000 items are in the collection. These resources include quality juvenile fiction, big books, videos, jigsaw puzzles, kits, charts, games, musical instruments, syllabi and curriculum guides, educational software, school textbooks, Montessori materials, pictures and models. Students use the resources for assignments, field experience visits and for their final fourth year teaching practicum. All Curtin students can borrow from the collection which means students in other disciplines have access to TRL resources. For example, nursing students use the human biology models for seminars and speech and hearing students use the early readers for their practicums. Because of the nature of the collection, additional care in relation to maintaining multiple part items, such as kits, puzzles and games, have been developed. Information literacy classes are provided to all first year students to familiarise them with the TRL layout and instruction and tips to locate TRL materials within the larger Curtin library catalogue. These classes are coordinated to follow on from an introductory information literacy class run by the main library. Angela has worked in Curtin University Library for many years. When she started in the TRL the loan statistics were approximately 17,000 per year. By introducing innovative operational systems, loans are now over 28,000. The innovative practices that lead to this increase were recognised by Curtin University who awarded her the Vice Chancellor's Award for Excellence. Return to Program
MULTICULTURAL CO-OPERATIVE COORDINATOR, A UNIQUE JOB FOR A LIBRARY TECHNICIAN The Multicultural Cooperative, originally inaugurated by Wollongong Library in the 1970's, was moved to the State Library of NSW in March 1991. The initial role of the Cooperative was to assist libraries in overcoming the difficulties of locating and importing materials in Languages Other Than English (LOTE). Since then the role of the Cooperative has changed in a dynamic way to respond to the needs of the public library network, including the State Library of NSW, from coordinating purchases to coordinating cataloguing and even the end processing of materials. Approximately 30 libraries throughout the State purchase foreign language material through the Cooperative. As a Senior Library Technician, this position is a unique one in Australia and incorporates the use of many skills not the least being organisational and planning skills, highly effective communication skills and budgeting skills. As Coordinator Shauna assists public libraries including the State Library of NSW, in the selection, purchase and cataloguing of materials in more than 42 languages. Her duties include liaising with publishers and distributors within both Australia and overseas, organising the selection of material and ordering and distribution of materials. She also provides support to the Multicultural Consultant. Each year libraries all over the State are invited to participate in the Selection Meetings". The function of the selection meetings are to bring suppliers of LOTE material and public libraries together, to both support the industry and provide a venue for libraries to purchase material for their multicultural collections. Since starting work as a Library Assistant in 1977 and completing the Library Practice Certificate Course in 1981, I have had the opportunity to carry out a variety of jobs in a range of workplaces. I have been employed by the State Library of NSW since 1999 and took up my current position in 2001. Return to Program
EXPLORING NEW DIMENSIONS: REVISIONING LIBRARY SERVICES IN THE POST WEB ENVIRONMENT
Libraries have provided user focused services for many centuries. The
development of the web enabled a move to focus on online collections and
access support services. After almost a decade of online delivery, this
paper reviews some of the innovative developments in Australian
libraries. It also tests two key questions: This paper will report on research into Kinetica based on focus groups and surveys of end users and librarians. It also covers surveys and focus groups of individuals using the National Library's Copies Direct services as well as other reviews. It will then offer some thoughts on the new services which are emerging and comment on the skills and attributes required by Library Technicians and Librarians in the development of the next generation of digital library services. Currently Assistant Director General Resource Sharing at the National Library responsible for services such as Kinetica, Picture Australia, Australian Libraries Gateway and Document Supply. Previously Director, Reference Services at NLA. A long career working in special and research libraries, particularly in science. Have also been a researcher, web developer and library educator. Return to Program
IMPROVING LIBRARY WEBSITE USABILITY : A USER FOCUS Over recent years, libraries have been forced to adapt their offerings to compete with the Internet and maintain their role as a major supplier of information. One common response from libraries has been to provide online access to information through websites, allowing resources to be accessed from the Internet, and away from immediate research support. Library websites must therefore be usable by the target audience, remembering that this audience is not limited to patrons of the physical library.
The purpose of this study was to conduct a usability assessment of a
university library website, with results used to guide libraries in the
design of websites that meet user needs. The process of assessment
included: The website used as a case study was the University of Wollongong Library website. The initial expert review and usability testing resulted in the development of a number of recommendations for change. The final expert review, conducted after implementation of these recommendations, revealed a significant improvement in the usability of the library website which we assessed. Positive feedback from users has also been received since the implementation of the recommendations. Alison Norris graduated with a Bachelor of Information Technology (Hons I) in 2003, and is now completing a PhD in information systems at the University of Wollongong. Mark Freeman is completing a PhD on Internet usability issues, also at the University of Wollongong. Return to Program
PERCEPTION, DECEPTION, RECEPTION, ADAPTATON: 23 YEARS OF WORKING WITH
STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES In 1982 the best that Macquarie University Library could offer Students with disabilities was a dark narrow room with a Perkins Brailler, or an adjustable clamp on the desktop. Today we have a dedicated modern purpose-built "Special Equipment Area" (SEA for short) complete with computers that talk; computers that can be spoken to; produce Braille; modified lighting, individual study facilities; captioned and subtitled video player and MP3s. But have we got it right? It's one thing to provide whizz bang technology, but do we deliver where it really counts? Over the last 23 years Wendy and Geoff have worked with students with disabilities, seen the advancements in technology but are still frustrated by the stereotype perceptions of much of the university community. Not all disabilities are obvious and staff can be deceived by appearances.
How do we receive our students with disabilities? This group participation workshop is aimed at generating both discussion and an awareness of the challenges students with disabilities face on a daily basis with the demands of study and student life. Wendy Palmer graduated as a Library Technician in 1982 and started work in Macquarie University Library's Audiovisual section. Wendy was introduced to the use of adaptive technology and has acted in the support role for students with disabilities ever since. Her understanding and knowledge of the plight of students with disabilities has grown with her experience. Geoff Evenden has worked at Macquarie University Library for the last 23 years. Through his role as a Technical/Computing Officer, Geoff has had a close working involvement with not only adaptive technology but also the university students who have to rely on this equipment to cope with the demands of university life. Return to Program
TIPS AND TRICKS OF BOOK REPAIRS In this session Dorothy will demonstrate repairs on shoulders, loose papers and photocopied pages that need to replace damaged pages. She will also show how to repair loose stitched sections, torn pages and the principles of paperback repair where the paperback pagination is reinserted. There is even a small section on tips for chewing gum removal! While Dorothy has worked at Bankstown City Library for 30 years doing all library duties, book repairs has been her forte. She has done State Library courses of conservation, restoration and binding, etc. Dorothy has also run general repairs and training sessions held by Bankstown City Council for 3 years. Return to Program
BABES'N'BOOKS: A PROGRAM FOR PARENTS OF BABIES 0 - 12 MONTHS The "Babes 'n' Books" program is a wonderful example of change arising from customer needs, existing knowledge and research merging with the usual resource constraints. It also showcases the changing roles of Library Technicians within our organisations. Babes 'n' Books were programed by Lois Phelps, Library Technician and experienced Children's Services Officer. The Children's Services Librarian acted as a sounding board throughout the process. Adaptations to the program arise from feedback from the parents, staff involved and the Children & Youth Services team which is led by the Library Technician who devised the program. Initially it could be said the program was thrust upon us. We called it MOPs (Meeting Other Parents) after the group asking for a story time for babies. It caught our attention and we researched, produced, floundered and re-assessed what we were offering until our new, ubeaut", highly successful Babes 'n' Books program emerged like a shimmering butterfly.
Our presentation will: Lois has worked for Darwin City Council Libraries since 1980. She is currently the Children and Youth Services Technician for DCCL. Her role involves organising resources, devising and delivering a range of programs for 0 to 18 year olds. Lois enjoys programs based on picture books and their wonderful illustrations. Return to Program
ONCE UPON A TIME...THE MAKING OF A LIBRARY STORY TIME Story time is a traditional core service within the public library environment. However, ask yourself honestly, is it a service that inspires the "Wow" factor, within your staff, from your senior management? More importantly, is there a wow" resounding from your audience? This paper will look at outreach activities for our youngest customers, looking at why they are important and examining what we need to improve, develop and promote to present to our young customers, and their drivers - a product that can only be described as "simply the best". There has been a lot of press regarding the importance of books for the young mind that encouraging a relationship with books actually makes the brain grow. We in the library field already instinctively know of this wonderful relationship. Margaret will show how reading assists in brain development. She will discuss the elements of a story time session, look at the quality of the product and suggest ideas to make us think of how to exceed the customers' expectations. Margaret will also look at how story time can be sold to senior management as a crucial promotional activity that requires more time, more budget, and more credos to those who run the program. Margaret has been telling tales all her life. Ask her family. She has been running story time in libraries for 17 years. Find an audience, a pile of books, throw in a costume and you will have an entertaining half hour guaranteed. We should be creating lifelong readers, lifelong customers and making the experience high quality and unforgettable. Return to Program
E-COMMERCE FOR LIBRARY PROMOTION AND SUSTAINABILITY:
HOW LIBRARY TECHNICIANS CAN MARKET THEMSELVES AND THEIR LIBRARY'S SERVICES ONLINE As a player in the delivery of services and online information, libraries are in the best position to use staff expertise and technology they have been developing, to foster community awareness that services provided on the internet, both socially and commercially, has real estimable value. This value is part of a progressive history that requires constant reassessment in order to stay relevant. As users become used to the nuances of virtual transactions, and the technology for participation on the internet becomes widely available, the provision of value added services, such as a virtual reference, e-reserves and WiFi networking, further contribute to transactions and services traditionally provided by institutions such as libraries. These services and transactions use business models to justify funding and ongoing support. It can therefore be argued that libraries must keep abreast of new models of e-commerce to provide relevant services and develop input where necessary to predict changes and suitably adapt their way of interacting online or doing business, whether it is free, fee for service or cost recovery. Such is the competitive nature of business that has come to the World Wide Web that libraries are being challenged to justify their existence and budgets. By using e-commerce models, for example, the buying and selling of information, products and services via the internet, the library is well placed to promote and advance the future of libraries by making use of these current e-commerce models as well as developing new ones. Library Technician, and at present, Assistant Librarian and Graphic Designer at the Hollywood Private Hospital in Perth. Born in Melbourne, Victoria. Moved to Western Australia in 1979, Lothar had enrolled at Melbourne State College (MSC) at age 17 in hopes of getting a Teaching Degree in Librarianship. Fascinated by English literature, writing children's literature, philosophy and surfing the east coast of Victoria, he left MSC without completing his teaching units but nevertheless he did go on to work in libraries. His Associate Diploma in Library Technology is from Edith Cowan University in Perth, WA. He co-facilitated the WA Group mentoring program for Library Technicians. Lothar wrote his first paper for the 1995 Darwin Library Technician' s conference. In subsequent conferences, he presented papers on various topics including Internet Addiction and a view of the Library Technician' s role in the 21st century co-written with Associate Professor Matthew Allen of Curtin University. In 1998 he co-authored an article published in the Australian Library Journal, which subsequently was placed on the reading list for the Graduate Diploma in Information Studies at the University of South Australia. In 2003, after undertaking roles as State and National Convenor of the ALIA technicians groups, he was awarded the Dunn and Wilson scholarship. He has studied units towards a B.A. (Internet Studies) at Curtin University in WA, was co-recipient of the 2004 Library Technician of the Year and is a member of the ALIA Library and Information Week (Library Week) Committee. Return to Program
SUCCESSFUL OUTSOURCING OF ACQUISTIONS AND TECHNICAL SERVICES Brisbane City Council Library Services led an internal Workplace Redesign in 1998. Staff recommended outsourcing Technical Services to achieve efficiencies and scalability of service. Outsourcing of Acquisitions and Technical Services took place from July 1999, with no loss of staff to Library Services and amid a renewed focus on value-added customer service. Partnerships were forged with suppliers above and beyond the official 'Supply of Shelf-ready Library Material' contracts. This paper focuses on the gains Brisbane City Council Library Services and its customers received from outsourcing Acquisitions and Technical Services, along with the ongoing partnerships and practices required for this success. Over the last 15 years Sharon Robertson has worked in a variety of positions, including Systems Librarian and Hub Team Leader, along with 10 years experience in branch work. She has been involved in change management within Library Services with automation and Workplace Redesign. Sharon has been Coordinator Collection Services since July 2003. Return to Program
DOWNLOAD AND GO - PDAs IN PUBLIC LIBRARIES In 2003/4 with minimal funding Yarra Plenty Regional Library Service was able to undertake a small trial of loaning ebooks to borrowers' Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs). Yarra Plenty Regional Library Service has a reputation for innovation and this trial is typical of that approach and direction. The aim of the trial was to assess the demand for and acceptance of ebooks on PDAs in an Australian public library environment. This paper presents the findings from the trial and discusses possible future directions for digital books in libraries. Pam Saunders is widely recognised as being an authority on ebooks in public libraries in Australia. Pam is currently a Consultant with Red Mosaic, a niche provider of Business IT Solutions that specialises in creating Business Value from IT. Return to Program
ADT@CURTIN: A LIBRARY TECHNICIAN'S PERSPECTIVE ON THE AUSTRALIAN
DIGITAL THESES (ADT) PROGRAM AT CURTIN UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY The ADT program aims to establish a database of digital versions of higher degree research theses from Australian universities. The program endeavours to provide access to this important information resource, without cost, to the Australian and international community via the World Wide Web. Curtin University of Technology was one of seven original project partners that developed the ADT model in 1998-99. There are now more than thirty Australian universities participating in the program. This paper examines the issues faced as the program became a mainstream activity of the library, from the perspective of a Library Technician. Some of these issues include the conversion of print theses to electronic format, dealing with a variety of formats and file sizes, copyright, tracing authors, retrospective conversion, mandatory submission and accessing Curtin theses. Michaela has been employed at Curtin University since 1998. She worked as a Library Assistant for 5 years and has been in a technician position since June 2003. Michaela's studies will be complete at the end of this year. Her main tasks include the Australian Digital Theses program, Acquisitions and Cataloguing. Return to Program
CHANGING DIRECTION ... WHERE WILL IT TAKE YOU? In 2003 Peta responded to an Expressions of Interest advertised at the Institute to undertake the role of supervisor for a library trainee at the Morningside Campus Library. At the time Peta was working at the Kangaroo Point Campus Library and would be required to move to Morningside if she was successful in gaining this position. Peta was fortunate to be chosen to supervise this trainee and as part of this responsibility and to prepare her for this role, she undertook an intensive Certificate IV in Assessment and Workplace Training course. With the conference theme of experiences, excellence and expectations, Peta would like to share the knowledge and experience she gained in her role as supervisor of a library trainee. Peta hopes to encourage those people that may be contemplating taking on a role of this nature and to provide some insight into the structure of the traineeship and the Certificate IV in Assessment and Workplace Training. Peta started work in libraries as a Cadet Library Technician in 1997. She completed her Associate Diploma of Library Technician Studies in 1997 and for the last 18 months Peta has been responsible for the supervision and assessment of two trainees undertaking the Certificate II in Library Studies, as well as her other day to day roles. Return to Program
FROM BOOK PURCHASE REQUEST TO CLIENT-READY DELIVERY:CHALLENGING THE EXISTING SUPPLY CHAIN Libraries are under significant pressure to deliver information services in a timely manner.Because most educational book titles published overseas take about 4-6 weeks to put on the shelf in libraries, we need a new model. Print on Demand technologies will facilitate the fast supply of books to Australian libraries and their clients. Software integration and meta-data management along with improved work flows and processes offer the library community further economic and speed of supply benefits.The 'new world' of book supply will allow libraries to channel staff resources to areas encouraging more interaction with patrons or to areas where their expertise can be more effectively utilized. Richard is General Manager of Thorpe Bowker a member of the Cambridge Information Group of Companies. Thorpe Bowker is publisher of Australian Bookseller and Publisher, Weekly Book Newsletter along with other Booktrade services including Global Books in Print and Ulrichs. Over the past 20 years Richard has established a number of companies in the information industry including CD ROM distribution, document delivery and online learning. Most recently he was instrumental in establishing BookSurge Australia a print on demand service for publishers and authors.
CHALLENGES OF CONSTRUCTING AN EXCLUSIVE CLASSIFICATION SCHEME FOR THE
DOCUMENTS ON INDIAN MEDICAL HERITAGE Indian Medical Heritage (IMH) is an interdisciplinary knowledge field recognised around the Traditional Medical Sciences, Biological Sciences, Social Sciences and Indology. It collectively studies the traditional medicine systems, the socio cultural backdrop, ecology of natural resources and knowledge systems. This multi focal linkage renders IMH intricateness and assures a preferential niche among Traditional Physicians, Social Scientists, Biological Scientists and Historians in India. India, the cradle of traditional systems of medicine is currently witnessing a sudden flux of information products related to IMH, resulting from an increased preference for traditional healthcare and natural remedies worldwide. Yet, it is observed that the libraries are not geared up to organise this information flux (Shruthi & Somashekhar, 2003). An analysis of the schedules of DDC and UDC indicates an incomplete representation of subjects related to IMH (Shruthi & Somashekhar, 2003). This strange situation of increased flow of information products on IMH, coupled with inadequate representation on the existing classification schedules has posed difficulty to librarians to organise the newer and newer titles related to IMH (Shruthi & Somashekhar, 2003). This has inspired the authors to construct an exclusive classification scheme on Indian Medical Heritage so that all the related subjects are properly represented and would ease the burden of librarians engaged in IMH knowledge organising. This paper focuses on the highlights of such a classification schedule exclusively developed to fulfil the needs of IMH information users. It also discusses the challenges of developing newer classification schedules and their contribution to the field of knowledge organisation. B.S. Somashekhar is a Post graduate in Horticulture with 15 years' experience in education and research in Forest Ecology. He is committed to improve training, communication, education and learning initiatives related to conservation of natural resources in India. Developed > 30 education capsules, 150 education courses and published 15 research papers and >200 popular articles. Jayaram Shruthi is a Post graduate in Library and Information Science and is committed to contribute to the concepts and principles of library science. Return to Program
A LIBRARY TECHNICIAN IN THE UK: THE "HOWS" AND "WHYS" OF WORKING OVERSEAS The main objective of this short talk is to give information and advice to Library Technicians about working overseas, specifically in the United Kingdom. This experience has the potential to enhance an individual's career path, and assist in the development of skills and abilities that can be applied to library work in Australia. A person's individual goals (such as travel) whilst working overseas, usually influence the kind of work they undertake. This may be contract or temporary work versus a more permanent position. Claire will also discuss some of these goals and look at the short and long-term benefits of working in a foreign country. The availability and type of work (part time or full time) has a significant impact on the decision to work overseas, and we will look at the options for Library Technicians realistically. Claire will include information on how to go about obtaining work in London and regional areas such as Scotland. She will also focus on the value of a Library Technician qualification in the UK labour market. Salaries are another important component of the decision to accept a position. Claire will cover salary ranges and briefly look at the cost of living and accommodation. By the end of the session, participants will have a good idea if the expatriate experience is for them and the type of issues that they need to consider in making that decision. Claire graduated from Central TAFE (Perth Campus) with a Diploma of Library and Information Studies in 1999. Since then she has worked in various public and school libraries until securing her current position at the University of Notre Dame Australia Law Library. Claire will be travelling to the UK in January 2005. Return to Program
MULTI-SKILL ME - SECONDMENT OPPORTUNITIES AND ISSUES AT QUT LIBRARY "Be not afraid of growing slowly; be only afraid of standing still" (Chinese Proverb). The QUT Library has embraced their staff's fear of standing still by offering opportunities for multi-skilling through secondment. Staff have an opportunity to learn new skills, gain from new experiences and work in different teams, resulting in a big picture" view of the organisation.
This paper will present an overview of: Issues such as benefits for the individual and the organisation will be covered, as well as the effects on supervisors, management and other team members who then need to cope with constantly changing staff and new team dynamics. Sharon has been working at QUT since October 2000. Prior to this, she has had numerous employers. Sharon has also participated in secondment opportunities with CSIRO Qld Center for Advanced Technologies Library, the Library Resource Services unit QUT Library, and now the Library Systems Unit QUT Library. Sharon is currently completing BA (Library and Information Science). Return to Program
LEADING WITH ICT...SOME TIPS AND TRICKS Use of information and communication technology (ICT) for information staff is old hat... or is it? While we have used automated systems for decades, there are still some areas where the use of ICT can not only support our work but provide a platform for leadership. E-Learning is one avenue that will be considered as a leadership opportunity from both a use and design perspective. This presentation will provide participants with ideas to continue to use back at work as well as a suggestion for how this can place participants in leadership opportunities. Leadership is not about position - it is about belief in self. June Wall, B. Ed. Grad Dip Lib, M. ICT., has worked at a variety of levels in the information sector - Special Library manager, teacher librarian, consultant in ICT, professional development consultant, courseware writer and author/editor of books. Her passion is in making innovative and effective use of ICT in an information environment.
THE FUTURE OF THE PAST: DIGITAL PROJECTS AND HISTORICAL RESEARCH In the digital world it is much easier for users to construct their own collections from a combination of resources. These may be based upon sources prepared by scholars and professionals, but increasingly the 'Google generation' eelies upon search engines using algorithms of frequency and ranking to allow them to link to and access information. What are the implications of these new methodologies for future historical research? How do we balance the use of digital surrogates with original source materials? How will it impact on preservation strategies developed by librarians, archivists,and information professionals? What will be the future of the digital and hybrid paper/digital library? Robin has been working as a reference librarian at Macquarie University Library since 1980. He began his library career in the Mitchell Library, Sydney in 1976 and has always retained a keen interest in Australian colonial history and developing research techniques that will enhance the intrinsic value of original source materials. Since 1996 he has been developing a series of websites that explore the life and times of Governor Lachlan Macquarie. These digital projects provide full-text transcripts of Macquarie's writings, as well as research findings based on Robin's travels to India, Sri Lanka, South Africa, and Britain seeking to retrace some of Macquarie's journeys before his arrival in Australia in 1810. Return to Program
AN EXCITING ADVENTURE 1995-2005: WHAT NEXT? On 25 November 1994 the then Manager Sheila Forrest participated in a wake, along with over 200 library users and staff, to mourn the passing of the 'State Library' and the Parliamentary Library. The State Library had provided services to the public of the Northern Territory since first opening its doors in 1980. The relocation of the libraries was a culmination of years of planning when, in early 1991, a proposal was put forward by Government to merge the State Library with Northern Territory University Library. This announcement created an immediate public outcry with strong support for the State Library so the proposal was abandoned. A Parliamentary Committee, in 1991, foreshadowed that by mid-1993 the State Library would be a 'joint-use' Reference and Parliamentary library situated in the new Parliament House. This decision was perhaps taken in recognition of the Library's status and a means of bringing members of the public into the new Parliament House. Over the last 10 years, many changes have taken place with clientele and services provided by the Northern Territory Library and its parent organisation, Northern Territory Library and Information Service. This paper will discuss these changes with regard to what has been and still is offered in the way of services and to whom. In addition, we will look at what the future may bring to the organisation and its clients. (A photographic montage will be included as a backdrop to the presentation). Pat Whalan has worked for State Library/Northern Territory Library (NTL) since 1990 gaining permanency in 1994 upon graduating as a Technician. Pat has held various positions within Northern Territory Library namely Library Relocation Technician, Serials Technician, Reference Technician and Serials Supervisor. Her current position is Serials Manager. Pat is also a qualified Librarian. Gaynor Lovett commenced her career 1984 graduating as a Library Technician in 1987. She held the position of Officer in Charge through two library amalgamations culminating with the Parliamentary Library. Gaynor remained with Parliamentary Services as Senior Technician when Parliamentary Library amalgamated with State Library 1995. Her position is now Collection Maintenance and Circulation Services (Document Delivery) Manager. Return to Program
FLEXIBLE LIVES: ONLINE LEARNING FOR LIBRARY TECHNICIANS For most technicians gaining qualifications is an ongoing learning process to update qualifications and knowledge. In a largely female profession, with many part time workers, there is a need to balance working lives and family with flexible learning solutions to enable them to maintain their career edge. Online courses are a means of offering flexibility which adapt to life long career learning. For academic institutions, the online environment is an attractive cost efficient option, allowing learning development to be integrated with student commitments. However, when designing online courses for Library Technicians it is important to create content that marries the advantages to students and institutions with experience in libraries and practical skill development. The online learning processes must be adapted to the specific needs of students and the learning outcomes required by employers. The issues of technology skills and isolation of learning experience are well documented in online learning discussions. The library diploma course at the University of Ballarat has a geographically diverse student group so course flexibility is a key criterion of delivery. Staff have developed online units which suit these students' needs, while maintaining high industry standards of competency, Their experience emphasises the importance of assessing each unit's development and being very specific toward learning outcomes. The online learning experience is an alternate means of providing support, not a substitute for teacher/student interaction or a justification for reduced resources. This paper explores this experience and addresses issues of creating an online learning experience that is specifically relevant to Library Technicians. Deirdre Wilmott has worked as a Reference Librarian at the State Library of Victoria La Trobe Library Australiana Collection and Deakin University. She then became Manager/Curator of the State library's Newspaper Collection then Teacher, Diploma of Library and Information Services at the University of Ballarat. Jenny Leviston has been employed as Manager Collection Resources Team at the University of Ballarat Library and is now Course Coordinator, Diploma of Library and Information Services at the University of Ballarat. |
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