Needs-based public libraries
The thinking of Comrade F. Dobler from the early 20th century remains relevant and even prescient: those who need open access to information may be those who are fundamentally excluded from public libraries.
Four RA strategies to promote new voices and inclusion
We can use Reader’s Advisory to both ensure that our communities feel seen and that they discover new voices and cultures by working on polices, merchandising, book lists, and handselling.
Not too fine a point: COVID-19 reveals the origins of public libraries as agents of social control
In Library Land, the pandemic has exposed inherent fragilities including discriminatory class and race based practices. In turn, these praxis reveal that public libraries have a history of being agents of social control and exclusion.
The new model public library
Someone will have to pay for all the government money being used to get us through the COVID-19 crisis. This will usher in a newer, longer and deeper era of austerity and a new understanding of what defines a “model public library.”
Remote readers’ advisory
Across the country, libraries are closed but library staff are still working hard to provide remote programming and virtual services, including RA.
Intersectionality
Call-outs, shaming, and other forms of “weaponized” communication shut down conversation and political debate, and more importantly, limit the number of social spaces where differing points of view can be heard and respected.
Free to read and share (or not): “What are you reading?”
Asking somebody what they are reading is a simple but loaded question, particularly when responding to an adult: We have the right to different tastes and reading choices.
Free speech and hate speech
Can we open our doors to all points of view and also say that our libraries are safe spaces? I think not.
Reviewing The public
The public is my kind of movie. The hero is a flawed character who has been given a second chance that he uses to help those who are also in a bad place.
RA core competencies & toolkit
Emma Primeau highlights the OPLA "Reader Services Core Competencies and RA Toolkit". This resource is a one-stop shop for all the tips, tools and continuing education to fuel a simple, practical and integrated approach to inclusive Readers’ Advisory that is geared to your community.
Is librarianship a profession?
Open for all? offers a “think piece” rather than an intellectual analysis. Columnist John Pateman shares his personal observations on issues, and his columns…
Podcasts for book lovers
With podcasts covering pretty much every conceivable thought, notion or idea, it makes sense that there would be countless podcasts for readers and book lovers ... and for readers' advisory as well!
The shock doctrine: Cuts to OLS – N an onslaught on public services
The provincial government has made a 50% cut to the funding that it provides to Ontario Library Service – North (OLS – N). This loss of funding is already sending shock waves through our library infrastructure.