Summer 2011 - Clinton Essex Franklin Library System

TRAILBLAZERNewsletter of the Clinton-Essex-Franklin Library SystemLATE SUMMER 2011 VOLUME 13, ISSUE 333 Oak StreetPlattsburgh, NY 12901518-563-5190FAX 518-563-0421www.cefls.orgWhat’s Inside:Member Library NewsBeach Bag ReadingNetworking our Skills on 10/24Matching Help forConstruction ProjectsDid you Know?LV Clinton County SchedulesTutor TrainingPatron Grant Brings BooksA Moveable FeastFeatured Library: Ausable ForksFree LibraryHurricane Irene Hits HardAddress contributions,compliments, criticisms to :Julie Wever, Editorwever@cefls.orgKaren Batchelder, Layoutbatchelder@cefls.orgCEFLS Bookmobile Set to RetireIt is with regret that the CEFLS Board of Trustees announces that the bookmobilewill be retired at the end of 2011. ―Deep and ongoing budget shortfalls areresponsible for this decision, which was a hard one to make,‖ says CEFLS DirectorEwa Jankowska. ―However, despite the fact that we did everything we could,including not filling two staff positions, and slashing our materials budgets eachyear, we were faced with no alternative. Unfortunately, we needed to make atough decision between following our mission to provide services to member librariesor to continue the bookmobile service. Our current budget climate simply cannotsupport both.‖The bookmobile began service in 1956 shortly after the System was created.Four dedicated bookmobile staff members operated two vehicles on a two weekschedule until 1991. During the early years, it was not uncommon for a third staffperson to ride along in order to help cope with the crowds of people who queuedup to check out their selections. Each bookmobile crew completed an ―overnight‖every other week; one crew stayed over in Ticonderoga and played friendlyevening card games with their hosts at the Circle Motel, while the Franklin Countyroute goers bunked for two nights in Malone. In 1991, one vehicle was removedfrom service due to budget issues. The remaining bookmobile operated on a threeweek schedule for several years, but recently moved to a four week schedule toonce again save operational costs. The history of the bookmobile has beenrecorded in quite amusing and moving detail in an article entitled ―Parnassus onWheels” by Bob Harden, who drove the bookmobile in those early years. Plans areunderway to post that document on the CEFLS web site in the near future as itprovides a fascinating glimpse into life on the road at that time, as well as a historyof CEFLS in general.The bookmobile currently makes 60 stops on a four week schedule to bring a fullrange of library services to more than 1,800 readers of all ages in the three countyarea. Ft. Covington, in Franklin County, has traditionally held the top spot as thebusiest stop; over 1,300 items have circulated to patrons there since the beginningof the year. The bookmobile also brings books, magazines and a friendly socialopportunity to seniors at more than 11 dedicated stops.CEFLS consultant staff will be working throughout the fall to manage the impactthat this shift in services will have on patrons. ―We intend to work with memberlibraries to come up with a plan to provide library services to the residents thathave traditionally depended on the bookmobile for their recreational andeducational reading materials,‖ Ewa Jankowska says. Possible scenarios might beto distribute books to nursing homes and senior centers in a different way, or toexplore the costs associated with a modified books by mail service.We will provide more information throughout the fall as we prepare to say goodbye to the end of an era.

Page 2MEMBER LIBRARY NEWSNews From Clinton CountyDannemora Free LibraryThe Dannemora Free Library is now operational at its newhome at 40 Emmons St. in Dannemora. We are all very excitedabout the move and hope everyone will come and visit us in ournew home.- Laura Pritchard, DirectorChazy Public LibraryIt was a busy summer. Speedy Arnold kicked off our summerreading program with an evening outdoor show that kept children(and a few passers-by) entertained with group singing to his guitaraccompaniment, making up a song, and looking at and discussinghis drawings and book illustrations. We had 25 children (preschoolthrough 7 th grade) sign up for the summer readingprogram. Every Saturday in July we held a Story Time for childrenage 3 to 8. Alexandra Mesick (for a Girl Scout Silver Badgeproject) planned and conducted four wonderful programs, withstories and a craft. After 18 children returned their completedreading lists, Alex helped me plan a party to celebrate. She didsuch a creative job I hope she‘ll continue to do an occasionalStory Time. The children love her dearly!In collaboration with the Town Summer Recreation program,we held a three day Reading Camp for elementary age children.Each day Diane Sabourin and her Girl Scout helper, SadieGarceau, read a folk tale (successively Asia, Europe, and Africa).The children learned about five different kinds of folk stories.They made stick puppets to illustrate one story, and after snacktime learned a folk dance. On the last day they also set up ashadow stage and presented a puppet show, based on one of thefolk tales, to an audience of parents, grandparents, and me. Thenthey taught us one of the folk dances, which we all performedwith several changes of partners. The children were veryenthusiastic during this camp, so we hope offer another next year.Meanwhile Chazy Library Trustees have continued therenovation of our new library-to-be. We were very happy toreceive the library construction grant check from the state library.The trustees are also fundraising for the matching fund of nextyear‘s construction grant, as this is a three phase project. Inaddition to our bake sale and an old-fashioned candy store boothat the Chazy Old Home day celebration, they have placedcollection jars at the library and various local businesses, askingcustomers to drop in loose change. Chazy people have been verygenerous with both financial donations and giving of theirexpertise We are blessed with this supportive community.B each Bag ReadingReaders from around thesystem toted these books totheir favorite sunny spot orshady nook.TRAILBLAZERThe Atlantic by Simon Winchester. A wonderful"big" book that encompasses science, history,economics and the environment. Just what thetitle implies, this is the story of the mighty ocean.I listened to the audio version, read by theauthor, whose lovely English accent enhances thetale.The Outlander by Gil Adamson (not to beconfused with the series, this is a differentbook/author entirely). A beautifully writtenstory of survival against great odds. Tense andlyrical, this is both a stream-of-consciousnessinterior story of a young widow escaping hertrackers (the reader knows she has killed herabusive husband), as well as a historical fictionsuspense story. Set in the Canadian wildernessin the early 1900's. Gripping. – Ann SayersI really enjoyed the latest Janet Evanovich,Smoking Seventeen It’s got all of the elements ofa sizzling summer read! – Eileen ClarMy summer reading has included so far HeatWave by Nancy Thayer; Smokin' Seventeen byJanet Evanovich, Down River by Karen Harperand One Summer by David Baldacci. Any andall would be worth lugging in a beach bag! –Donna Boumil, Rouses PointSarah's Key by Tatiana de Rosnay is awonderful story which is actually the fictionalstory of a real event. The plot surrounds thesearch to find out about the "real" Sarah. I alsoenjoyed Snow Flower and the Secret Fan byLisa See tells the story of two girls broughttogether as children and how their lives becameentwined in the years to come. This is a feelgood story. I also recommend The Lacuna byBarbara Kingsolver which is the story of afamily that travels around the world, meetingexciting people and experiencing history in themaking en route. – Judy Harris-Francie Fairchild, Director

Page 4More from Clinton County...Dodge Library, West ChazyI am certain everyone will join me in giving SenatorBetty Little, a very sincere “thank you” for leveragingspecial legislative project money for CEFLS memberlibraries. For small libraries such as ours, the impact onthe community of patrons is limitless. It has beenChristmas every day since we got these books. Kidsand adults alike are enjoying this bounty. Thank youSenator. I would also personally like to thankthe CEFLS Staff. Their assistance with orderingcataloging and everything else involved made it sosimple and fun. My endless calls and queries were metwith extreme patience and professionalism and I amforever grateful for each of them for making my lifeeasier.This year our Summer Reading Program is the"Biggest and Brightest" of all. The One World, ManyStories theme gave each young patron a voice. Theirenergy and imaginations are boundless. We've createdTotems of the very best of ourselves. We've eatenpopcorn with chopsticks. We've studied theunderwater world and its sea creatures. We've beenmarooned on deserted isles. We've learned that eachyoung patron really is "One World with Many, ManyStories."Dodge Library is open Tuesday and Thursday from9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and Saturday from 9:00 a.m. tonoon. Stop by the Dodge Library. It‘s where we allshare a story.Beach Bag recommendations continueTRAILBLAZERThen There Was You by JenniferWeiner. In true classic beach readform, Weiner’s books are alwayseasy to both read and enjoy.Intertwining four different women’s stories that areinterconnected by a baby it is at times a comedy,other times heartbreaking, a love story and learningto become the person you were meant to become.The Things We Cherished by Pam Jenoff. Across theyears of time from the start of the 20th century untilpresent day, the reader is taken on a historicalmystery. Focusing on a court case set in Germany,two lawyers must find out the truth about their client:did he or didn’t he offer up his brother’s plot to saveJewish children from the Nazi’s in exchange for thefreedom of the woman he loved? The tales intertwinewith unforgettable characters in this modern saga. -Susanna Carey, AuSable ForksI’ve read some really good books this summer,spending a lot of time reading during my familyvacation sitting on the beach. Two of my favoriteswere: Room, by Emma Donoghue. Though this soundslike a dreary plot, the author has done a masterfuljob of describing a child’s deprivation at being in asingle room with his mother his entire life. Donoghue’sability to identify and relate to experiences and newthings the child discovers is really amazing. Oh yeah,there’s a happy ending.Empire Falls, by Richard Russo. This is an oldie, the2001 Pulitzer Prize Winner for fiction. This wasactually my second read of the book, but I enjoyed itas much the second time around. Russo is known forhis tales of small town life, and this book doesn’tdisappoint with its collection of characters and eventsin Empire Falls, Maine. We can all relate to the smalltown diner and it’s regulars, to the growing pains ofan adolescent, and to the appreciation for life in ―ourtown‖ that Russo so elegantly portrays.—Elizabeth Rogers, CEFLS(Check out Elizabeth’s review of Shucked in theSeptember issue of Library Journal!)-Linda Dupee, DirectorOur book group is reading Outlander by GilAdamson. I would recommend it as a good read.-Jackie Viestenz, Sherman Free Library, Port Henry

It Takes a Town to Raisea Reader“ Networking OurSkills"Please plan to join us onMonday October 24 for a day of sharingand idea pairing with Ann Sayers and KarenArmstrong. Round table discussions in themorning will feature topics such as:School/Library ConnectionsFamily Outreach and SpecialFamiliesDigging for DollarsTechnology/Gadget Updates.We will have table facilitators and notetakers so the valuable knowledge acquiredthat day will be portable. After lunch, Annand Karen will share their Best New Books.This session, and others in our It Takes aTown series is made possible by a generousgrant from the Lake Placid EducationFoundation. The grant will provide a fullflavored lunch for everyone, as well asmileage for attendees who represent CEFLSmember libraries.Come one, come all, this will be a day forboth ideas and ACTION.Did You Know?Tom Mangano has recently succeeded KarenEast as Director of the Belden Noble MemorialLibrary, Essex. Tom has a MIS degree and isa certified librarian. He is anxious to startworking toward automation! Welcome Tom,and Happy Retirement, Karen!The Ellenburg Sarah A. Munsil Free Libraryjoined the ranks of CEFLS automated librariesat the end of August. Welcome aboard ELL!Our friends at LV Clinton County will hold aScrabble for Literacy tournament on Saturday,September 24 in celebration of Adult LiteracyAwareness Month. The War of Words willcommence at 12:30 p.m. in the LiteracyVolunteers Classroom, Hawkins Hall, Room049. A tax deductible donation of $15 isrequested of all those who ―square off!‖VOLUME 13 , ISS UE 3News from Essex CountyBlack Watch Memorial Library, TiconderogaPage 5Summer was a busy and exciting time at the Black Watch MemorialLibrary. We have had fun and educational programs for people of allages.Our very own Beth Nadeau worked in conjunction with the Friendsof the Library to provide two children‘s summer reading programs.The younger children traveled around the world following the ―OneWorld, Many Stories‖ summer reading theme. They visited a differentcontinent each week where stories and activities were enjoyed by all,including Spanish music and dance, eating with chopsticks and makingChinese lanterns.Beth also provided a weekly ‗tween program with books andactivities that centered on the teen reading theme, ―You are Here‖.The Friends of the Library have generously provided us with copies ofthe books the ‗tweens are reading to keep for their own collection.The Black Watch Memorial Library has purchased, with help fromthe Friends, all 25 books nominated and are on the YALSA‘s Teen‘sTop Ten List for 2011. These books are high interest young adultbooks aimed at all of our young adult patrons, but especially reluctantteen readers. We are displaying them in a special area, and the booksare flying off the shelf. We are hoping that everyone who has beenreading them will participate in our own special voting during TeenRead Week.Adults found much to enjoy at our Library this summer, too. Inaddition to all of the great new books and movies, we offered agenealogy series provided by the Daughters of the AmericanRevolution and monthly computer classes provided by InternetXpress.Our wireless internet has been popular among our summer visitors aswell as our busy public computers. We were lucky enough to havebeen given a donation to purchase three new computers for the public‘suse with the latest versions of Windows and Microsoft OfficeProducts.We participated in Ticonderoga‘s annual Streetfest for the thirdstraight year. Our invaluable book sale volunteers, Linda Cunninghamand Eileen McCabe, worked our table selling used books and our recentlydiscarded collection of VHS Tapes. All proceeds from that daywill be used to benefit the Library. Past items purchased with ourbook sale money include computer equipment, computer software,mulch and our contribution to the Echo Pass this year.Our patrons are still asking for The Help by Kathryn Stockett.Other frequently requested titmes include Erik Larson‘s In the Garden ofBeasts and the always popular novels by James Patterson and DavidBaldacci.-Heather Johns, Director

Page 6News from Essex County continues...Sherman Free Library, Port HenryWe held four sessions of the themed "One World, Many Stories"summer reading program. A woman from Ticonderoga brought someanimals to the library for an interesting program about migration andthey were a big hit. Twenty children participated in our "Be a ReadingChamp" program. They are diligently reading away, even though it hasbeen very hot weather.In September we will be offering another series of genealogyworkshops.-Jackie Viestenz, DirectorSchroon Lake LibrarySummer continued to be a very busy time at our library. Dailychildren's programs coupled with record WiFi and computer users hadus bursting at the seams with patrons. It was not uncommon to findpatrons sitting on the floor, in the hall, on the stairs; we so need abigger library!Our Friends of the Library book store was open Wednesdays andSaturdays from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. through August. The storefeatured thousands of books in every genre imaginable.On Sunday, August 7, our Friends of the Library sponsored a Houseand Garden Tour fundraiser that featured six distinct homes in ourarea. Docents were on hand to highlight the history and special featuresof the homes and gardens featured. Following the tour, participantsmet at the boathouse for a lecture on gardening in the North Countryby gardening expert, Kerry Mendez from Perennially Yours.-- Jane Bouchard, DirectorDid You Know?TRAILBLAZERWhile CEFLSdelivers a variety ofservices to memberlibraries in pursuit ofour mission to “foster and improve publiclibrary service to all residents of thesystem area”, member library directorshave keyed in on these top five ―musthaves‖ as ―most important‖: *1/1 The Horizon (catalog and circulationsystem) and van delivery tied for firstplace with 77.8%indicating that theseservices were most important2 Consultant help from friendly CEFLSstaff as ―most important‖ by 33.3% ofrespondents3 Administration of grants: 29.6% saidthat it was important that CEFLS dealswith and programmatically distributesstate aid grant and special project funds4 Rotating Collections of books, audiobooks and DVDs top the ―must have‖ listof 22.2%5/5 Shared databases and staff trainingshare the number five spot with 18.5% ofrespondents identifying these services as―most important.‖As we exit summer and segue into fall,we are preparing a new Five Year Planand plotting our course for the future withsome ―visioning‖ exercises. Input frommember library directors, trustees, patronsand friends will continue to be valuabledirectional signals, especially in this era offiscal constraint. Think about where yourlibrary and your community will be in fiveyears and be prepared to tell us where togo!*Source: 2010 Member Library Survey,administered in December 2010 with a100% response rateMr. Beau the Clown visited theSchroon Lake Library in midJulySand art pictures were apopular craft

ACT OffersMatching HelpFor ConstructionProjectsACT (TheAdirondackCommunity Trust)is offering grants tohelp public library constructionapplicants meet the 50% local fundingmatch requirements that are currentlyrequired. This is an exciting and timelyoffer that is sure to help CEFLS librariesparticipate in construction projects largeand small.Cali Brooks, Executive Director ACT,says, “We know the timing is short, buttwo local private foundations arechallenging libraries to come up withinnovative library construction grantapplications that may receive the 50%match required by the construction grantprogram. ACT is specifically looking forapplications that deepen the role publiclibraries play as “economic engines”using technology and digital skillsdevelopment.”Interested public library applicantsare encouraged to visithttp://www.nysl.nysed.gov/libdev/construc/14m/index.html for specificinformation about what is and what isnot allowable under the constructiongrant program, and to call Julie Wever(563-5190 x 18) with questions.Libraries that intend to apply for ACTmatching funds must also contact Julieas soon as possible in order to plan andsubmit applications for ACT funding.CEFLS has set a local deadline ofFriday, September 16 for receipt of allapplications.VOLUME 13 , ISS UE 3More Essex County NewsPaine Memorial Library, WillsboroPage 7The Paine Memorial Free library sponsored an activity filled Julywhich was highlighted by reading programs and successful fundraising.Our six week summer reading program at Noblewood beach site had 80children registered to read for 45 minutes every day. The children andcouncilors were all spellbound by an appearance of Mr.Beau the clown. Ienjoyed his as much if not more than the children. A Story Hourprogram was provided at the library and also ran for six weeks. Ourannual Golf Scramble at the Willsboro Golf Course had 88 Golfers whoplayed a four person best ball scramble. Over $1,800.00 in gifts andprizes were awarded.I was very impressed how well our contestants did in the Take a Biteout of Books competition on July 16. Warren Jackson and ChristopherKing were excellent at answering the questions. We had the help of theRouses Point team because Donald King was out due to injuries andAlexandra Bliss was out due to family illness. It was a fantasticcompetition and I encourage all libraries to participate.Four Art Shows with eleven Artisans presented their work at thelibrary this summer. Receptions were held on Wednesday evenings.Our Annual meeting was well attended. Eli Schwartzberg presented theplans for the new Assisted Living Center that will transform the oldWillsboro Central School into housing for the elderly. This will also bringnew employment to Willsboro. The Willsboro Craft Fair featured over50 quality Artisans. The day was perfect. A cool breeze and sunny skiesprovided the perfect backdrop for the four different musical groups whoentertained the crowds. The library‘s Annual Book Sale was heldFriday, August 11 & Saturday August 12.I said goodbye to Stevie Burrows (pictured) thisweek. For the past five summers she has work forour library thorough the services of One WorkSource Business & Employment Center inElizabethtown. She is a Plattsburgh State Universitystudent and has aged out of the program. We willmiss her dearly.Now it's time to take a breath and get startedon fall programming. It's been a great summer inWillsboro. I wish you all a wonderful fall.-Cheryl Blanchard, DirectorStevie BurrowsOur “Collaborative TABOB Team” enjoyed the July 16 competitionand read some terrific books in preparation for the Battle!

Page 8TRAILBLAZERA Look at the The Au Sable Forks Free Library Past and PresentThe Au Sable Forks Free Library has been in itscurrent location of 9 West Church Lane in Au SableForks, NY since it was built in 1968. Prior to that, thelibrary had rented room on Main Street and wasoriginally a rental library. In 1942, local citizens of thetown met to discuss the lack of reading materials forcitizens. Forty-two people became the foundingcharters of the newly formed library, eachcontributing $3.00, and twenty-five people donatedfour books as requested—all of which were recentlypublished at that time.The initial library was in a small room but it had a large window to the street advertising the books the libraryhad to offer. Open three days a week from 2:00 p.m.to 5:00 p.m., it was run purely by volunteers. Originally therental fee was 3 cents a day for adults and 2 cents a day for children. Once a book had been paid for by thecontributing rental fees, it was considered free to borrow. Eventually the library became an association library,funded by its members in part. As funds permitted new items were purchased per the suggestion of a bookcommittee who met quarterly during the year. In 1952, the library moved across the street where the expandedcollection was moved into a roomier location twice its original size.When the library, which had always been cash strapped, found that money had become a much more seriousissue, the trustees decided to draw up a petition, signed by the tax payers, and hold a special election. From thiselection came the decision that the library would be supported from the two towns which it served: Jay and BlackBrook, encompassing two different counties. Another special election won financial support from the Au SableValley Central School District.New forms of financial support ensued, and included fund raising and two large gifts bequeathed to the libraryfrom wills. One donor specified that within five years a permanent building had to be in place, and the search fora suitable location was on! The library‘s new home was to be on West Church Street, and a building committee wasformed to begin the process. The library was a brick building with a full basement and opened its doors to thepublic on September 19, 1968. Since then, the library has added a small second wing which originally housed thereference room and is now home to the Children‘s Collection.Today the library has since added five computers and free Wi-Fi access as well as printing, faxing, and films tothe original book collection. The print collection in both fiction and non-fiction continues to grow, and audiobooks have become a popular addition for readers. The library hosts children‘s programming throughout theschool year and during the summer there is a reading program for school-aged kids. The library was fortunate tohave a wonderful volunteer, Shannon Stanley lead the program: One World, Many Stories this summer. This yearhas welcomed new, free computer skills classes in a partnership with InternetXpress from Elizabethtown; they areheld on the second Thursday of each month. The newest addition to the library is a renovated office to house ourAdirondack and local history collection. Please see accompanying article for more information regarding this newresource.The library is closed on Sunday and Monday; open Tuesday from 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Wednesday from10:30 a.m to 6:30 p.m., Thursday and Friday from 12:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00p.m.. For more information check out our website at www.ausableforksfreelibrary.com or call us at 518-647-5596or email at afbooks@charter.net. Please stop in soon for a visit!--Susanna Carey, Library Director

VOLUME 13, ISSUE 3A Moveable FeastBook sales are great forlibraries and customers, but weface the perennial problem ofwhat to do with ―leftovers.‖ Noone likes to throwaway books,and it’s expensive to take themto the dump when you’ve exhausted every otherpossible final resting place. There are someorganizations who buy used library books, and it’snot hard to get in touch with them.Better World Books is a well known organizationthat pays for shipping when you send your books tothem. You need to set up an account, which is easy todo via their website at http://www.betwerworldbooks.com. Many libraries havehad great luck with this company. Selling through themis free: they provide shipping materials and pay forshipping.Bookrecycler.org is another online source for sellingused books. You can send them an inventory list ofbooks you want to sell and they’ll match the list withpotential buyers, or you can arrange to ship your booksto them. Their address is http://www.bookrecycler.orgBookProspector is a similar service. Sellers cansimply scan the ISBN online to see if anyone isinterested in purchasing the item, then click ―Sell‖ andship the items. This easy to use service can be found athttp://wwwbookprospector.comCash4Books doesn’t buy used library books, butwill buy donations you might have left from your sale,or donations you get during the year. Their claim tofame is that they are the ―#1 Online Book Buyer‖.Check them out at http://www.cash4books.net.Shipping is free, and all you have to do is enter theISBN online to see if there are buyers interested in thetitles.Some of our member library directors have beensuccessful selling books through eBay and Amazon,though this usually works best for items that aren’tprocessed for libraries. It’s always worth it to check itout. Amazon is at http://www.amazon.com, andeBay is at http://www.ebay.com.All of these sites require that you register online toset up an account. Take the time to check it out—oneperson’s discard is another one’s treasure. As always,take the time also to share your success in ―placing‖your leftover treasures with your colleagues!-Elizabeth Rogers, CEFLSEssex County News continues...Wells Memorial Library, Upper JayA Blockbuster Sale! They came, they browsed, theybought and our summer sale revenues reached recordheights from July 15-17. We could not have this fundraiserwithout the help of the community. Over 80 volunteersbaked, put up tents, hauled and unpacked myriad boxes,took shifts at the sale, and repacked and stored the unsolditems. Our thanks are due to those who volunteered andalso to those who purchased. Special mention goes to theFriday Group, whose members work all year sorting,pricing, and boxing donated items.In September and October, Dan Christoffel will displaypaintings and drawings of classic American authors MarkTwain, Walt Whitman, and Ernest Hemingway. Dan‘sartist reception will be Sunday, September 18, from 2:00 to4:00 p.m. Dan plans to do readings from Whitman andTwain during the reception.We are now listed on the National Register of HistoricPlaces as well as the State Historic Registry. The librarywas chartered in April 1906, and opened for patrons inNovember, 1907.We have been awarded a $450 grant from the LakePlacid Education Foundation to purchase e-readers.Congratulations and thanks to board member Alison Haas,who collected pledges for ―Running for Reading‖ in theBurlington Marathon. Alison completed the marathon andraised over $1,300 for the library.-excerpted from an article written by Board Member Ellen Metcalfwhich appeared in the Wells Memorial Library’s Summer 2011newsletterPage 9Editor’s Update: The Wells Memorial Library was severely affectedby Hurricane Irene. Director Karen Rappaport estimates that 40%of the entire collection was destroyed, including 100% of the picturebooks. Check out the CEFLS website to find out how you can helptheWells Memorial Library get back on its feet.A casualty of the storm. Photo: Ewa Jankowska

Page 10Essex County News continues...AuSable Forks Free Library Opens Adirondack RoomWhen I first started working at the Au Sable Forks Free Library inlate November 2009, one of the first things on my ―to do list‖ was totransform an old office that was rarely used into a new home for ourAdirondack Collection. My vision was that, in time, this would become auseful resource for those doing research or anyone merely interested inthe area‘s history.An earlier construction project several years ago had transformed thelibrary‘s circulation desk. Originally the office was the space behind thedesk where items were checked in and out. After the changes, the deskwas changed into a U-shaped area in the center of the main room,utilizing space and bringing thelibrarian and patron closer together.Unfortunately as a result, the officewas no longer needed and becamewasted space.As with all things, transformingthe office was a process. The idea tocreate an Adirondack Room was firstpresented to my Library Board in December 2009, and it was a wellreceivedidea to create a space that could be utilized daily by librarypatrons. Slowly, with the help of wonderful volunteers, the office wascleaned out and ready for the next step. Last December, the office wasreconstructed to provide shelving where there had once been closets,book cases built and a brand new coat of paint. Patrons of the librarysupplied the labor needed to put down hardwood flooring and helpedcomplete the room‘s transformation. In memoriam donations were usedto purchase a reading chair that now sits in the corner by the window,just awaiting someone to take a break and read in it.I hope that now the room is officially ―open for business,‖ it willattract the interest of current and new patrons. Our goal for thiscollection is to provide resources to researchers and those looking tolearn about the local area. Hopefully the collection will continue to grow,and those with an interest in local history will utilize this transformedspace. From beginning to end, the main goal in mind was to betterprovide an important collection to patrons and utilize space that wasotherwise wasted.The Adirondack Collection‘s new room isnow open for patrons to browse, sit,and enjoy the space. The room and itsresources will be available for useduring all open library hours. Mostitems, with some exceptions, can beborrowed to take home. Stop in andcheck us out!--Susanna Carey, Library DirectorTRAILBLAZERPatron GrantBrings BookBonanza to CEFLibrariesThanks to State Senator Betty Little, ourmember libraries have been receivingbooks, audios and DVD’s through a PatronGrant Program. Libraries receive almost$1,000 each for purchasing materials tosupplement their collections. Our memberlibrary directors have done a great job ofselecting all sorts of things to meet theguidelines of the grant. We’re takingadvantage of this opportunity to ―beef up‖our system-wide Cooperative CollectionDevelopment purchases for adult andjuvenile readers. Guidelines require thatlibraries order a combination of non-fictionand fiction items. Items must be recentlypublished, and half of the selected itemsmust be print materials.Our libraries have been able toimprove their collections with additions ofmaterials in specific subject areas,according to their involvement in the CEFLSCooperative Collection Development Plan.Books and DVD’s on boats and boating,―green‖ (environment-friendly) projects,American history will be appreciated byfans of these subjects. Lots of new DVD’s;and children’s materials from the New YorkState Reading List 2011 have beenpurchased.CEF has been administering the grant,ordering and processing the materials.We’ve provided labels that credit SenatorLittle and the Patron Grant program formaking these materials possible. Manythanks are also due to our van drivers forhauling the bounty to recipient libraries. Ifyou have an opportunity, be sure toexpress our thanks to Senator Little for thiswonderful collective gift that will benefitreaders throughout our system.-Elizabeth Rogers, CEFLS

V OLUME 13, ISSUE 3Make a difference *Hands-on experience *Tutor an adult one-on-one two hours per weekEnglish Language Learners (ELL)Free Tutor TrainingOrientation: Monday, September 26 th1:30-4:30 pmLiteracy Volunteers of Clinton CountyRoom 049, Basement of Hawkins Hall, PSUTraining: 9/28, 10/3, 10/51:30-4:30 pm Mondays & WednesdaysMust attend all 4 sessions(including orientation)Reserve your seat or call with questions at564-5332From the Youth Services Listserv:ALA Youth Services Section Offers FallWebinarsSept. 15 Webinar: Tweet, Like, Link: Creating a SocialMedia Policy for Your LibraryDo you have a Facebook, Twitter, or a blog that youuse to connect with teens in your community? Do youhave a social media policy that outlines use of socialtools by you and members of your community? If youare just getting started with social media in your teenservices, or if you've been using these tools for quiteawhile, a social media policy is a key ingredient forsuccess. In this webinar you'll learn what a social mediapolicy is, why it's important to have one, what the policyshould include, how the policy can help you supportteens, and how you can use the policy as an advocacytool.Registration costs $39 for individual YALSA members,$49 for all other individuals, and $195 for groups.YALSA’s group rate applies to a group of people thatwill watch the webinar together in one location. If wehave five or more interested people interested inparticipating in a central location, CEFLS will considerarranging a group rate. Contact Julie @ CEFLS if youare interested in coming to CEFLS to participate.More News from Essex CountyWilmington E.M. Cooper MemorialPublic LibraryPage 11This year two teams of―tween‖ readers representedour library in the July 16Battle of the Bookscompetition at ChamplainCentre Mall. We are pleasedto announce that our teamstook first and thirdplace! The winning teamconsisted of Justin Briggs,Benjamin Caito, AniseHetman, and Jacob Hetman. Third place team membersincluded Ashleigh Baer, Payson Baer, Sky Hanf, Brinn Peck,and James Winch. Both teams were coached by LibraryDirector Samantha Baer. This is a very tough competitionand we are so proud of these kids for all their hard workand success. The kids all had a great time and are lookingforward to competing again next year.In the next few weeks, passers-by will notice somechanges going on at the library. The exterior siding on ourlibrary is rotting and we are installing new siding on thebuilding. This new siding will protect the building and willalso insulate it which will reduce our heating costs. TheFriends of the Library are generously funding this project.The library will be raffling off an Amazon Kindle at theFriends of the Library Cookie Sale in December. Ticketscan be purchased at any time, and will be available at ourbooth at the Festival of the Colors in September. Ticketsare one for $5 or 3 for $10.We were fortunate to receive a grant from the LakePlacid Education Foundation earmarked for teen and tweenbooks and audio books. If you haven‘t been in the library,we have an impressive collection of audio books. Patronsmay borrow two audio books at a time and, like all our othermaterials, they may be checked out for three weeks.We plan to have a booth at the Festival of the Colorsagain this year. We will have a number of books for sale atrock bottom prices. We will also be selling bulbs and theraffle tickets for the Kindle.-Samantha Baer, Director

Page 12Franklin County NewsGoff-Nelson Memorial Library, Tupper LakeAs summer winds down, we melt a little but in generalenjoy the sunshine and increased numbers of visitors andactivities. We held weekly story hours for our youngestpatrons, complete with tall tales, snacks, activities and prizesand a reminder to everyone to read, read, read and turn inreading sheets. Good weather and unique summer activitiescompete mightily with the printed word, but we persevere.There is nothing like a good story, be it book, CD, downloador Playaway! Which brings me to a recommendation: teensand many adults might enjoy the Playaway format for theirlistening pleasure. These little devices have the advantage ofbeing pre-loaded onto a dedicated device. We have purchaseda selection of YA stories that are just a bit milder than some―adult‖ fare. We like them especially well for long car trips orwhile walking – so give them a try!This summer we were able to host performances by bothNan Hoffman and Dave Ruch who gave great musicalconcerts geared to our young readers (and families). We‘dhighly recommend both of these performers. By the way, theywill also put on performances for older groups.Our final event this summer was the annual community artshow. This year‘s show was a great success and was enjoyedby hundreds of residents and visitors alike. Both local andvisiting artists entered work in the show. We look forward to―growing‖ the show for next year which will be the 40 th yearof this fine tradition.­­-Linda AuClair, DirectorYou Ought to Be in Pictures!TRAILBLAZERREAD Posters are fun, ―photoshopped‖pictures of a person or several people posingwith a book in front of an interestingbackground with the word ―READ‖. You mayhave seen some of these posters withcelebrities in them, and some of you may havehad your own READ posters done at a GatesFoundation conference. I love the individualityexpressed, and also the affirmation ofreading!READ posters are brainchild of the AmericanLibrary Association. As part of a grant fromNNYLN, I was able to purchase an ALA READposter kit, and I’ve been having fun takingphotos and making READ posters to use inpromotional videos. I’ve visited thePlattsburgh, Mooers and Keene Valleylibraries so far, and invited people toparticipate. Each person gets to choose abook and a background, and the results canbe hung on the library walls or posted on thelibrary website.I would be happy to come to one of yourevents or meetings to take READ posters.Pictured here is Vanilla Wagner, an employeeat the Keene Valley Library. You can take alook at some of the others we’ve done on ourPicasa Web Album: http://bit.ly/qxy3wN-Betsy Brooks, CEFLSWead Library Summer Reading Program, July 6thThe Adventures of Mr. Toad

VOLUME 13 , ISS UE 3Hurricane Irene VS. CEFLS LibrariesAs we go to press, some CEF libraries are stilldealing with the aftermath of Hurricane Irene. TheWells Memorial Library was particularly hard hit,while some libraries such as Keene Valley havebeen inaccessible to the CEF delivery van. Here isthe most recent round up of storm related damage.We’ve created a page on the CEFLS web site(www.cefls.org) that provides complete informationabout how to help Wells Memorial Library andothers affected by the storm.Elizabethtown—Donna Nelson reported a floodedbasement and an uncertain fate of the furnace.Essex - no power for two days and many treesdown.Keene and Keene Valley - both libraries are fineand dry, but the towns are in bad shape.Plattsburgh Public - PPL had a bad leak in thewalls and water dripped onto the carpet on the firstfloor.Port Henry—Jackie Viestenz reported about 2‖ofwater in the basement, but nothing critical is storedthere.Rouses Point—some audio books got wet thanks toa leaky roof which will hopefully be replaced soonwith construction funds!Upper Jay—the library was flooded and is closeduntil further notice. Water must be pumped out andmud cleared up.Franklin County News continued...Saranac Lake Free LibraryThere‘s a new look in the upstairs reading area of the librarywith the addition of seven round tables (with four chairs each)and two couches. The new furniture is American made andwas purchased locally with donations to the library. The oldtables and chairs dated back to the sixties and were in verypoor condition. Many patrons have commented on howattractive and comfortable the furniture is.Around 75 children participated in our Summer ReadingProgram with the delightful theme ―One World, ManyStories @ Your Library.‖ The program ran July 13, 20 and 27,from 10:00 a.m. until noon, for preschoolers through fourthgraders, and included stories, crafts, activities and a specialguest each week. The program ended with an Ice CreamSocial provided by Stewart‘s Shop.The SLFL fielded two teams for the 6 th annual Take a BiteOut of Books (TABOB) trivia challenge held at theChamplain Centre Mall on July 16. Both teams were ―fast onthe buzzers and quick with their answers,‖ reported Children‘sProgramming Coordinator Peggy Orman. One Saranac Laketeam progressed to the quarter finals, and the other ended upin second place.The 56 th annual Come to the Fair ran from August 2 to 6,with a Members Night August 1. Along with thousands ofbooks for sale, the event also included a Picnic Café, whiteelephant items, jewelry, toys and baked goods. The salerealized around $12,000 for the library.— Pat Wiley, Library AssistantPage 13Wadhams—the combination of high water in theriver and the amount of rain that came downwashed out some of the fill behind the library’snewly built retaining wall and moved a large stoneat its base.Paine Memorial Library, Willsboro - CherylBlanchard checked in to say that the library haddamage to their fiber optic cable and was withoutInternet for two days. The fire department ran agenerator for the library that kept two sump pumpsrunning. There is now 3‖ of water in the basementthat comes in as fast as it can be pumped out.Patrons are enjoying the new tables, chairs andsofas in the upstairs Reading Room.Peru - the library is dry but did have a shutterripped right off its hinges.

Nonprofit OrganizationU.S. POSTAGE PAIDCLINTON-ESSEX-FRANKLINLIBRARYPLATTSBURGH, NY 12901Permit #177Or current residentPrimary Business AddressYour Address Line 2Your Address Line 3Your Address Line 4This issue of The Trailblazer, along with archived issues, is available on the System’s web site (www.cefls.org).While you are visiting our web site, be sure to check out the Calendar of Events that lists upcoming activities atlibraries in Clinton, Essex, and Franklin counties. The Trailblazer is published quarterly by the CEF Library System.CEF LIBRARY SYSTEM STAFFDirector :Ewa JankowskaAccounting:Michael SpoffordAdministrative Assistant:Dawn RecoreAutomation:Betsy BrooksTechnical Services:Elizabeth Rogers, Head of ReferenceKim Fletcher, Senior ClerkOutreach/Bookmobile/Youth ServicesJulie Wever, Outreach CoordinatorKaren Batchelder, Senior ClerkChad Chase, Library ClerkBob Welch, Bookmobile DriverRich Merritt, Van DriverGary Hamel, Van DriverBOARD OF TRUSTEESClinton County:Dr. Nancy J. Church, TreasurerChris de Grandpre, PresidentDeborah WellsVincent CareyJennifer HenryEssex County:Frances FilshieMartha SpearCharles ―Kip‖ ThompsonNancy Cooper, Vice PresidentBarbara Stowe, Member-at-LargeFranklin County:Mary Minnich, SecretaryJames BritellRichard KibbenGary Alexander