Spartanburg County Public Libraries

We Interrupt this Broadcast...

2009-09-21T21:33:00.003-04:00

We are about two months into our new video program: The Monday Minute. Hosted on You Tube - the Libraries' now has a channel on You Tube. While this blog will remain up - I am leaving it indefinitely inactive. Find us on You Tube for up-to-date library information:

To those who followed us on this blog...Thank You. I hope you will find the new video channel equally interesting. - Todd

Monday Minute 8/10/2009

2009-08-11T15:44:00.001-04:00

The Library is fortunate to have a group of creative folks who continue to find ways to use Web 2.0 technology. We have blogs, facebook pages, instant messaging...and now we have added a Monday Minute. The whole thing is a little strange, but it is an interesting way to disseminate library information in a matter of 60 seconds. Here is the first go on this thing...we shall see how it goes...

The opening frame is funny...my editor is going to have to work a little harder!

How Much is Your Library Worth?

2009-04-06T09:08:00.007-04:00

For several years a Library Value Calculator has been kicked around on the Internet. The South Carolina State Library has created one for South Carolina library users. From the State Library:

How much do you pay out-of-pocket for the services your local library offers - $5, $10, or $15, or more? You might be surprised by what you find out by using the State Library’s new Library Value Calculator.

Library patrons can now visit the South Carolina Library Value Calculator and find out how much the library services used during a month equal in real dollar amounts. The calculator was adapted from the original Library Service Calculator provided by the Massachusetts Library Association. Visit http://www.statelibrary.sc.gov/library-use-calculator and see how much your library’s services are worth to you!

View-Master 3D Travel Sets

2009-03-08T12:08:00.006-04:00

View-Master 3D Travel Sets are coming to an end. The disk with small positive images transported the viewer to all kinds of locations around the world. As a cost cutting measure Mattel is stopping the production of the travel series of viewable disks. I guess Google images has taken over.

As a kid I must have looked at the View-Master's "Seven Wonders of the World" disk a thousand times. While I have not looked at a View-Master disk in years...the idea of losing the travel series is slightly unsettling. The format was stable and the images were unbelievably clear. The 3D effects were cool, and you could travel back in time or around the world with a View-Master and good back lighting. Like Polaroid instant film...some cool things must come to an end.

Federal Stimulus Package

2009-03-05T11:06:00.005-05:00

The stimulus package has been debated and analyzed. There is some confusion on how the money will be spent, and how resources will be allocated. www.staterecovery.org is a single source for informtaion on the depth of the package, and outlines how resources will be spent State by State.

jamboread! 2009

2009-02-15T20:45:00.005-05:00

March is almost here and that means jamboread! planning is well underway. Jamboread! is Saturday, March 7th. Go here to receive the latest information: jamboread! .

Today is the Day

2009-01-20T06:10:00.003-05:00

Inaugural ceremonies have been around since the beginning. Some ceremonies have been lavish and some quite simple. Not only is there a ceremony, but we also have a parade, multiple balls, and of course a speech.

The Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies has a comprehensive database organizing all you need to know about swearing in ceremonies and all the related activities.

Link: http://inaugural.senate.gov/index.cfm

Live from the North Pole!

2008-12-20T10:10:00.002-05:00

The North Pole is the center of attention these days. From Santa to Global Warming. This is the link to NOAA's page of North Pole imagery. There is an index of web cam activity and related graphics. The next link is from National Geographic. These are great photos.

NOAA's link is located here: NOAA Link

National Georgraphic has some cool photos of expeditions to the North Pole, and those are located here: National Geographic North Pole photos .

C-SPAN Bus is Visiting on December 16 @ 1:30

2008-12-12T12:46:00.006-05:00

The C-SPAN Campaign 2008 Bus is visiting the Headquarters Library on Tuesday, December 16. The bus will be in the Headquarters' parking lot from 1:30 to 3:30. (Click on photo for more information).

The C-SPAN Campaign 2008 Bus is a mobile TV studio and production vehicle that has been traveling the country since 1993. Since that time C-SPAN has been going to high schools, colleges, state capitals, campaign events, and many, many other locations to discuss the media, election, C-SPAN, TV production and public affairs with students, teachers and citizens.

For the past year and a half, they have been attending major campaign events in states across the country, in addition to continuing education and public outreach efforts at schools, colleges and other public forums. While the campaigns are now over, the bus is going to continue in its current capacity until inauguration day January 20th.

TIME/LIFE Magazine Photo Archive

2008-12-10T11:03:00.000-05:00

Whether you like it or not - Google is at it again. Google has archived Time and Life Magazines' images.

Broken down by decade you may search photos from the 1860's...Civil War or 1960's...Space Race. You are able to search by category as well...People, Places, Events, Sports, and Culture.

According to the site, there are millions of images in the Life photo archive. Click here: LIFE .

Library Trustee Publishes Book

2008-12-05T17:53:00.003-05:00

Library Trustee, John T.E. Cribb, has published "The American Patriot's Almanac". This is co-published with William Bennett the former US Secretary of Education. The article is located here: LINK

Google's Googling the Flu

2008-11-22T09:03:00.001-05:00

From Time Magazine (November 24, 2008 - page 13):

Engineers at the California-based search giant are at it again, and this time they are after your germs. By tracking where, when and how many people are Googling terms like congestion, muscle ache and thermometer, a new service at google.org/flutrends hopes to better detect regional outbreaks of influenza. The service has even outsmarted the CDC by exposing hot spots 10 days before the agency did.

The site www.google.org/flutrends is kind of cool. There are charts and graphs, and some other cool stuff. According to the data, Mississippi, Alabama and Georgia are already dealing with moderate reports of the flu.

While this is interesting...Is anyone concerned that Google is tracking your search criteria?

Two New Offerings in Our Nation's Capitol

2008-11-17T08:45:00.005-05:00

Now that the election is finally over...you may find it interesting that two other things of historical significance are taking place in our Nation's Capitol.

One - The Capitol Visitor Center opens on December 2. Details are here.

Two - The Star-Spangled Banner Gallery at the Smithsonian's National Museum of American History opens on November 21. Details are here. For an online exhibition you can visit the Star Spangled Banner's online gallery - here.

The Facts - Just The Facts

2008-09-09T08:32:00.005-04:00

The Annenberg Public Policy Center of the University of Pennsylvania manages a website called http://www.factcheck.org/ . As November elections approach we hear plenty of "facts and figures", but what is accurate?

While I can't speak for this site in its entirety - I can say that the University of Pennsylvania has made an effort to sort through what is accurate and what is inaccurate.

Herald-Journal Willis Photographic Collection

2008-09-08T17:20:00.003-04:00

Today we rolled out the Libraries' new Digital Collections. The Willis Photographic Collection is now accessible at http://www.infodepot.org/. Here is the link to our digital collections web page: Link .

This is the first of many collections that we will bring online.

Here is the article from today's Spartanburg Herald-Journal: Link .

The earth is always moving...

2008-07-31T14:30:00.007-04:00

The Earth is a huge ball and it is always in motion. NASA tracks a variety of natural events impacting our globe. Earth Observatory is a project of NASA. This project tracks drought, dust/smoke, fires, floods, severe storms, volcanoes and unique imagery. Use the interactive map to navigate different events. Here is the link: Earth Observatory.

Here is a sample:

The ring-shaped, rainbow-like phenomenon, known as a glory, appears through the length of the center of this image.

Chug Chug Puff Puff

2008-07-28T08:47:00.003-04:00

Carolyn Landrum and the Little Engine That Could. They are one and the same. Carolyn will be missed. Her gathering is Wednesday, July 30 from 2 - 4 in the Barrett Room. Here is the article from the Spartanburg Herald-Journal: click here .

Hurricane Season 2008

2008-07-08T13:15:00.005-04:00

Hurricane season is around the corner, or better yet, already here. Hurricane Bertha is churning hundreds of miles off the coast. This is an early hurricane. Here are some helpful Hurricane links:

NOAA's National Hurricane Center (This site gives current information on Hurricane Watches and Warnings).

Historical Hurricane Tracks Map (This is an interactive map on the history of Hurricanes, and very cool).

Related Links (This is a list of sites that provide additional information on storms including hurricanes).

**The image is of Hurricane Hugo which landed in Charleston County in 1989.

Teen Summer Reading and Wii

2008-07-08T13:10:00.002-04:00

Yesterday our teens had a summer reading activity that included the Wii and Mario Kart. While I have played it - I am in no way as good as these teens. The Spartanburg Herald-Journal has posted a photo gallery of the event: photos .

We are very grateful to the paper for the great coverage.

Who Will Rule the Internet?

2008-06-06T10:13:00.002-04:00

So who will rule the Internet? Who will oversee the kingdom of millions? Time magazine has put out an article on the future of the Internet, and who will wield the greatest power. Click here to read: Who Will Rule the Internet?

Summer Reading is Here!

2008-05-30T17:57:00.007-04:00

When I was a kid, I would go to the Pine Street Library for summer reading. For those who were around then you may remember the white wire chairs with a paper thin pad as a "cushion". Comfort at its best! My book of choice for summer reading? Encyclopedia Brown books. I loved Encyclopedia then and I love him today. I wanted to be a boy detective.

Summer reading kicked off today. There are programs and activities throughout the county at each of our locations. You can find an up to date list by going to our website: http://www.infodepot.org/ . or click here: Children, Teens, and Adults.

The Libraries will offer Summer Reading for all ages: children, teens, and adults...minus the white wire chairs with a paper thin "cushion".

Great Works of Literature as Text Messages

2008-05-14T07:42:00.003-04:00

This month's edition of Esquire has a fun little feature, "Great Works of Literature as Text Messages" compiled by Mike Sachs and Teddy Wayne. Here they are:

The Catcher and the Rye: u r all phonies except my lil sis n ded bro :(
The Great Gatsby: Rich people r mt
Leaves of Grass: O! Etc.
Animal Farm: Pigs >= other animals
A Tale of Two Cities: bst of tyms, worst of tyms, mostly worse

I must admit that I had to use a text message translator on a couple of these. I used: http://www.lingo2word.com/translate.php .

Peace - Turns 50

2008-04-13T08:48:00.005-04:00

This shirt reminds me of my sister. In the early 1970's she had more tie dye and denim than a debutante should ever own. She also had her share of Peace symbols. This was 35 years ago - when the Peace symbol was just a teenager. Time Magazine has created a photographic retrospective on the 50th Anniversary of the Peace symbol. Click on the link to take a look: http://www.time.com/peace . Peace out -

Thanks, AJ and Mark

2008-04-11T16:14:00.008-04:00

AJ Jacobs was in town on Thursday. AJ was our Friends of the Libraries Annual speaker. He was gracious, funny and thoughtful...more than anything else, he was funny. This guy looks at the world in a way like no one else. For a sample of AJs writing you can click this link:http://www.ajjacobs.com/content/writing.asp .

This year's Friend of the Year was Mark Olencki. Mark is a local photographer who does an excellent job of preserving Spartanburg's history through photography. He has photographed Library events for many years, and is a true friend.

AJ Jacobs is the Friends' Annual Speaker

2008-04-04T08:03:00.000-04:00

AJ Jacobs is the Friends of the Libraries and Dennis L. Bruce Author Series speaker. Jacobs will speak in the Barret Room on Tuesday, April 8 at 7:00.

Jacobs is an editor for Esquire magazine and the author of several books. Recently Jacobs wrote The Know it All. As Jacobs explains, "The Know it All is about the year I spent reading the Encyclopedia Britannica from A to Z (or, more precisely, from a-ak to zywiec). All forty-four million words of it."

Released in late 2007 is The Year of Living Biblically. This book is about Jacob's quest to live the ultimate biblical life. "To follow every single rule in the Bible – as literally as possible."

You may sample Jacobs writing by visiting his website at http://www.ajjacobs.com/ .

People Reading

2008-03-07T07:40:00.006-05:00

One of the last components of this past fall's...The Big Read...is the exhibit of People Reading at the Chapman Cultural Center. The exhibit's title: People Reading: Selections from the Collection of Donald and Patricia Oresman.

The exhibit closes on Sunday, March 9th, and may be viewed at the Chapman Cultural Center. Click on the image to view the exhibit online.

jamboread! is Saturday

2008-02-28T07:44:00.004-05:00

Click on the logo to read today's Spartanburg Herald-Journal...

Boiling Springs...Finally

2008-02-24T20:51:00.003-05:00

We have discussed the expansion of the Boiling Springs Library for several years and we are finally there. We broke ground today and tomorrow the contractor will begin renovating and expanding the library.

Thanks to the Scouts who came back from a Scouting trip to retire the flag. Virgil Page a long time volunteer of the community and library advocate received the flag. We should be in the library in September. In the meantime - we will run a temporary facility at KVC Plaza - on #9.

jamboread! 2008

2008-02-22T07:36:00.003-05:00

jamboread! is March 1st at the Headquarters Library in downtown Spartanburg. Head directly to the jamboread! web page for details - click here.

For pictures from last year's event - click here.

It is a great event and has something for everyone. See you there!

Books Meet Art

2008-02-05T20:12:00.000-05:00

Nicholas Basbanes will visit Spartanburg on March 5th and 6th. Basbanes, a true bibliophile, will attend the closing reception of the "People Reading" art exhibit at the Chapman Cultural Center on March 5th. The reception is free and open to the public.

Basbanes will speak in the Barrett Community Room at the Headquarters Library on Thursday, March 6 at 7:00pm. From Brasbanes' website:
Well known for writing about books and bibliophiles, Nicholas Basbanes has worked as an award-winning investigative reporter, a literary editor, and a nationally syndicated columnist. His first book, A Gentle Madness: Bibliophiles, Bibliomanes, and the Eternal Passion for Books, was a finalist for the National Book Critics Circle Award in nonfiction for 1995, and was named a New York Times Notable Book of the Year.

For more information on Basbanes you may visit: http://www.nicholasbasbanes.com/

Coffee Anyone?

2008-02-03T20:41:00.000-05:00

The Library Store at Headquarters now sells coffee by the bag. Named "Book Junkies Java" - a bold Sulawesi blend prepared by Little River Roasting Co. in Spartanburg but with our own personal label on it.

It's all about the advertising...

2008-01-30T18:57:00.000-05:00

Super Bowl XLII is this next Sunday, February 3 at 6:30. The University of South Carolina is accepting votes on the best Super Bowl commercial. Here is the official word:

Which Super Bowl advertiser will score a touchdown? Visit www.jour.sc.edu/superbowl and vote for your favorite Super Bowl XLII commercial at the end of the game Sunday, February 3, 2008! You have until 10:00 a.m. Monday, February 4, 2008 to submit your vote.

The winner will be invited to the USC campus in April to receive the coveted Cocky Award. Get Pumped! We also invite you to watch QuickTime video replays of the previous USC Ad Bowl Poll winning commercials at www.jour.sc.edu/superbowl.

Understanding the DMCA

2008-01-27T20:40:00.000-05:00

My oldest son got an i-pod for Christmas. The first order of business was to load CDs to his new found gadget. Then after he completed loading everything we owned onto his new toy...his sights turned to DVDs. Certainly DVDs will load...no problem! DVDs "look" like CD's. DVDs "act" like CD's.

Then came the inevitable question..."Hey dad, why can't I transfer DVDs to my i-pod."

Then came along a Fox Trot comic strip that put Ben's question into perspective. Go here to take a look at Jason's perspective. Here.

For a more formal explanation...go here:

Library of Congress

UCLA

As helpful as the LOC and UCLA are...I think Jason has explained it quite nicely.

Too funny...

2007-12-27T19:34:00.001-05:00

This was in the paper today. My sons relate.

Hello out there!

2007-12-19T20:25:00.000-05:00

I am trying to close out the year, and I have not been a very good blogger since The Big Read came to a close. Whhheeeewww! We had a great time, but it has been nice to focus on other things.

This blog thing is fascinating to me. I thought I would provide a few end of the year stats (not completely the end of the year, but close.)
From January 1, 2007 to December 19, 2007:
Visits: 8,345
Page Views: 11,816
Pages per Visit: 1.42
Average time per visit: 1 minute 2 seconds

The most popular post of the year was Farewell to Judge Littlejohn (52 hits in one day). Go here to see April's archive: http://spartanburglibraries.blogspot.com/2007_04_01_archive.html

The most popular month was October with 707 visitors. This fell within The Big Read - Gatsby About Town.

46 countries visited my blog: #1: United States, #2: Canada, #3 United Kingdom, #4 India, #5 Germany.

48 States visited my blog: #1: South Carolina, #2: North Carolina, #3 Illinois (thanks to my niece - Jenny), #4 Georgia, #5: D.C.

So, I don't know who you are - and that's fine - but thanks for visiting. Best wishes for the holidays, and we will see you in 2008.

The Great Gatsby Photographs

2007-11-06T05:46:00.000-05:00

We are winding down with only a few more days to go of our Big Read programming. For a view of photos from some of our events - go here.

ENCORE: Alan Ladd as The Great Gatsby

2007-10-19T07:42:00.000-04:00

Wednesday, November 7 at 1:30pm

Following Music Sandwiched In - the Headquarters Library will show The Great Gatsby featuring Alan Ladd. This is the 1949 film version.

Admission, popcorn and drinks are free!

Charles Lindbergh's Visit

2007-10-12T15:38:00.000-04:00

Eighty years ago today, Charles Lindbergh visited Spartanburg on his Goodwill Tour. Go here to view the Libraries' collection of film and photos from his visit: Library. Go here to read today's Spartanburg Herald Journal: Article.

Great Gatsby Kickoff

2007-09-30T21:11:00.001-04:00

Expert talks F. Scott Fitzgerald at The Big Read kickoff

Thanks to the Spartanburg Herald-Journal for great coverage. The kickoff article is in today's edition: Go here.

There were about 200 folks for the event, and about 150 listened to Dr. Matthew Bruccoli. Dr. Bruccoli mentioned that we had the most people attend a kickoff event where he lectured. We're glad he came up the road rom Columbia. He did a great job.

We will post pictures from the event when the disk is delivered from the photographer.

Getting Ready for Gatsby Part VII

2007-09-28T17:29:00.000-04:00

Today's Spartanburg Herald-Journal had a nice article on The Great Gatsby with perspectives from local college professors. Click here for the article. For detailed program information visit the Libraries' Gatsby web site.

Getting Ready for Gatsby Part VI

2007-09-27T20:47:00.000-04:00

I spent the morning with the Libraries' good friend, Bill Drake. Bill has supported library services in Spartanburg County for over 30 years. Bill and I discuss libraries and The Great Gatsby. Here is a short film of Bill in the studio...

Getting Ready for Gatsby Part V

2007-09-25T21:37:00.000-04:00

Tom Johnson and I appeared on WSPA TV-7's Your Carolina on Tuesday to discuss The Big Read. Jack and Kimberly were great hosts. The video clip is to intense to upload...sorry...I will work on it, and try to make it available later.

Happy Birthday...Fitz

2007-09-24T18:43:00.000-04:00

Today would have been Fitzgerald's 111th Birthday. So, we are having a party. See the previous post or go here: Party.

Getting Ready for Gatsby Part IV

2007-09-21T07:12:00.000-04:00

The Great Kick Off!

Sunday, September 30 from 2:00 - 5:00

Headquarters Library

Getting Ready for Gatsby Part III.IV

2007-09-19T17:20:00.000-04:00

The Libraries' web services librarian, Jennifer, has worked very hard to put together a slick Gatsby About Town web presence. There are two ways to access the site. You can go through: http://www.infodepot.org/ or you can go here: iFitz . Take a look at some of the pages. I especially like the exhibits page. Jennifer will add more later.

Getting Ready for Gatsby Part III

2007-09-18T07:22:00.000-04:00

Today's Spartanburg Herald-Journal had a nice article and picture on the Libraries' The Big Read. Go here: SHJ - Article .

Yesterday, the Libraries' Board Chair and I presented The Big Read to County Council. Each received a copy of The Great Gatsby, program brochure, reader's guide, bookmark and library card information.

The Chairman of Council, Jeff Horton, is the co-chair along with Spartanburg's Mayor Bill Barnet.

Getting Ready for Gatsby Part II

2007-09-12T22:35:00.001-04:00

Have you seen the Gatsby commercial? Well, here it is. Thanks to the Spartanburg Little Theatre and WSPA-7 for their hardwork.

Getting Ready for Gatsby

2007-09-12T22:16:00.000-04:00

Materials are beginning to arrive for The Big Read: Gatsby About Town. We are preparing books, displays and finalizing programs. Here are some pictures from the Board Room where we are pulling together all of the materials. The Big Read is from September 30 - November 10. The Libraries will give out over 4,200 books., and we are working with over 45 countywide partners.

And the Answer Is...

2007-09-07T19:46:00.000-04:00

Friday night - long week, and I am watching Jeaopardy! College edition. The question: What is the name of the private study area bordered by three privacy walls used by students especially around the Christmas Holidays?

Well, this guy named Cliff from UCLA answered "Gift Box".

Well, sorry Cliff, the answer is carroll. But then again you won the match, and your weekly winnings is $100,000. I guess it can be "gift box" if you want it to be.

The Lead Box has a Home...Finally

2007-09-07T16:14:00.000-04:00

In 1961, the Pine Street Library was built, and a cornerstone with a time capsule was placed in the new building which bordered Converse Heights.

In 1997, the Headquarters Library opened, and the time capsule (a lead box - 18 inches tall, 12 inches wide and about 6 inches deep) went to the local history vault. For ten years the box sat in the corner of the vault.

In December 1999, the Spartanburg Herald-Journal wrote a story on time capsules in preparation for Y2K. In the article it was revealed that the time capsule from the Library was one of three dedicated on the same day in 1961. City Hall and the Courthouse were also dedicated on that day.

What is in the time capsule? Reportedly, an "authorized version" of the King James Bible, coins, newspaper and various other items.

The time capsule is supposed to stay sealed until 2061. In the meantime, the box will sit inside the wall of the atrium adjacent to the snack bar which is under renovation.

R. Todd is...

2007-08-25T16:03:00.000-04:00

This whole Web 2.0 is a gigantic flash in the pan, overrated, or right on target. You can pick any one of the three and you are probably correct, because it depends on your perspective.

For the most part, I have taken the summer off when it comes to keeping up with the blog. Far more pressing items have taken my time. I did find some time to fool around with Facebook and MySpace. My two sons were pushing to have pages, and in an effort to be a responsible parent - I jumped right in.

I stand in amazement. Facebook and Myspace keeps you so very connected - while having to put forth minimal effort.

In an article by Lev Grossman in TIME (pg. 54 - September 3, 2007), Grossman states that Facebook's largest demographic is people 35 and older - "they're refugees from the uncouth wider Web...Facebook constitutes a critical rebalance of the Internet's founding vision of unfettered electronic liberty."

I don't know about that, but I do know this...R. Todd is jealous that he did not have this type of technology when he was 16. **Poke**

It's so hot...

2007-08-05T17:59:00.000-04:00

trees are sneaking around looking for shade.

This is the South, and with it comes the great and the hot. Well, it's hot. Seems like forever since my post on the impending ice storm: go here.

A few days ago the Spartanburg Herald-Journal mentioned that the Library was the "coolest" place in town. The article gives the Library major props for being a cool place to hangout. Go here for the article.

Our forecast for the week? Well...

Monday: Haze 99°F
Tuesday: Hot 100°F
Wednesday: Hot 101°F
Thursday: Hot 100°F

Don't believe me? Go here: NOAA

So, come on in - it's cool.

Getting the Message Out

2007-07-28T08:50:00.000-04:00

My last post was generated from an article in Men's Health magazine, and the importance of libraries. Well, when I returned from vacation - writer Kyle Western had shot me an article he came across on CNet: Steal this book? Don't bother

The lead sentence in the article: When it comes to outsmarting the content establishment, your library may be your best accomplice.

So, the questions, how do libraries maximize and deliver their message in a content cluttered environment? Who, not what, is our PR machine?

Snaps for Kyle

2007-07-10T09:55:00.000-04:00

In the July/August edition of Men's Health magazine (page 36) under the title, "Be a patriot - no musket required", Kyle Western writes about three things we can do to be more patriotic. One of the items has to do with libraries and it mentions South Carolina:

Read Locally:

President Franklin D. Roosevelt noted that public libraries are "essential to the functioning of a democratic society."

But libraries are often the first to go when local budgets are cut. Support yours by always paying your fines and by donating used books, CD-ROMs, and DVDs. And instead of buying from Amazon, check librarybooksales.org first - it sells books from local libraries across the country. Back your library and you'll strengthen the state economy, too; a South Carolina study found the return on investment for every $1 spent on public libraries was $4.48-that's nearly 350 percent.

Click on the blue cover to read the study.

MySpace vs. Facebook

2007-07-08T09:58:00.000-04:00

I have been following a discussion around a PhD student's study (complete study) on the perceived class divisions between MySpace and Facebook users. The study's developer is PhD student Danah Boyd from the School of Information Sciences at UC Berkeley.

Language from the BBC's website (full story) and interview with Boyd:

Broadly, Ms Boyd found Facebook users tend to be white and come from families who are keen for children to get the most out of school and go on to college.

Characterising Facebook users she said: "They are in honors classes, looking forward to the prom, and live in a world dictated by after school activities."

By contrast, the average MySpace teenager tends to come from families where parents did not go to college, she said.

Ms Boyd also found far more teens from immigrant, Latino and Hispanic families on MySpace as well as many others who are not part of the "dominant high school popularity paradigm".

Wow. Is it true? Has cyber-space become a reflection of our socioeconomic class system? If so, how do libraries respond to this?

The Big Read

2007-06-26T07:42:00.000-04:00

The Spartanburg Herald-Journal announced the Libraries' The Big Read program this morning. With financial support from the Libraries, the Spartanburg County Foundation, The National Endowment for the Arts, the Kellogg Foundation, the Celebrate Community Foundation, and the Friends of the Libraries, this $91,500 county-wide reading program, with the help of over 40 partners, will span 6 weeks (September 30 - November 10). More to come...

http://www.goupstate.com/article/20070626/NEWS/706260321/1051/NEWS01

Innovation from the Library of Congress

2007-06-18T16:59:00.000-04:00

From the Library of Congress' blog:

"The Library of Congress’s Preservation Doctorate and a number of partners are essentially “inventing” a new preservation technology that could revolutionize efforts to convert analog formats, such as LPs, to digitized versions of the recordings contained on the old media".

For all the details you may visit the post - here or click on the photo.

The Library of ongress blog is one of a few that I keep up with. You can visit the LOC blog here: http://www.loc.gov/blog/

Music on Hayne

2007-06-17T19:07:00.000-04:00

The Woodruff Community Center and the Woodruff Library will host Music on Hayne in the new reading park adjacent to the Library. The event will take place Thursday, June 21 at 5:30pm. Music is by Hideaway and food is provided by Johnny Skinner’s Chicken. The forecast for Thursday is sunny with a high of 88 (weather). Come and enjoy!

Infinity

2007-06-10T07:55:00.000-04:00

On Friday evening about 100 people visited the Westside Library to watch as Daniel Cromer unveiled "Infinity". A year in development, "Infinity", explores life with and without books. Cromer, a Spartanburg native, and internationally recognized artist grew up next door to the property of the present Westside Library. The painting is about 5x6 feet and uses an integrated lighting system. The progression of Cromer's work was on display in the community room.

Teens Taste Slice of Competition in Library Pizzafest

2007-06-09T07:14:00.001-04:00

Chris Rogers at the Middle Tyger (Lyman) Library held a pizza tasting contest. The competition was fierce. For details - click on the photo for the Herald-Journal artice.

Getting Teens Involved in Local History

2007-06-05T08:02:00.001-04:00

The Herald-Journal ran an article on the Libraries' local history project involving teens. Click here to read: http://www.goupstate.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070605/NEWS/706050366/1051/NEWS01

Today in 1937

2007-05-26T22:14:00.000-04:00

My mother would always tell me not to "burn a bridge". Meaning, don't tick someone off - you may never know when your paths will cross again. The older I become the more I see what she means. Today, we celebrate a bridge. This bridge would be very difficult to burn.

The Golden Gate Bridge opened on this day (May 27) 1937. FYI - the first day was for pedestrians only. There are some cool sites on the Golden Gate Bridge:

Golden Gate Bridge site: Has general information and cool web cam - fog and all.

Golden Gate Bridge site/Historical Photos: Cool old photos.

Golden Gate Bridge site/Virtual Walk: No...really.

History Channel: General history and background.

- .... . / ..-. .. .-. ... - / .-..-. - . -..- - .-..-. / -- . ... ... .- --. .

2007-05-24T17:47:00.000-04:00

Today (May 24), in 1844 the first "text" message was sent by Samuel Morse over a telegraph. The words? “What hath God wrought?".

From the History Channel:
1844 : What hath God wrought? In a demonstration witnessed by members of Congress, American inventor Samuel F.B. Morse dispatches a telegraph message from the U.S. Capitol to Alfred Vail at a railroad station in Baltimore, Maryland. The message--"What Hath God Wrought?"--was telegraphed back to the Capitol a moment later by Vail. The question, taken from the Bible (Numbers 23:23), had been suggested to Morse by Annie Ellworth, the daughter of the commissioner of patents.

Morse, an accomplished painter, learned of a French inventor's idea of an electric telegraph in 1832 and then spent the next 12 years attempting to perfect a working telegraph instrument. During this period, he composed the Morse code, a set of signals that could represent language in telegraph messages, and convinced Congress to finance a Washington-to-Baltimore telegraph line. On May 24, 1844, he inaugurated the world's first commercial telegraph line with a message that was fitting given the invention's future effects on American life.

Just a decade after the first line opened, more than 20,000 miles of telegraph cable crisscrossed the country. The rapid communication it enabled greatly aided American expansion, making railroad travel safer as it provided a boost to business conducted across the great distances of a growing United States. (History)

LTM - I have NAC, but OTOOH I think Morse is ROFLOL.

C'YA - Todd

Memorial Day Weekend Fuel Prices

2007-05-24T07:32:00.000-04:00

One of the biggest travel days of the year is upon us - Memorial Day Weekend. So where's the cheapest gas, how much will it cost to travel to Aunt Edna's and how are gas prices even decided? Go to these sites for the information you need. Thanks to the Librarian's Internet Index for the help.

As far as the solar car? Where's the bike rack?

Where is the Cheapest Gas?: http://www.gaspricewatch.com/new/default_V3.asp OR http://gasbuddy.com/

How much will it cost to travel this weekend?: http://www.fuelcostcalculator.com/

How gas prices work?: http://www.howstuffworks.com/gas-price.htm

Staff Cookout 2007

2007-05-20T11:31:00.000-04:00

Thanks to the Staff Association for a great staff cookout. It was a beautiful afternoon for a day at Cleveland Park.

Public Service at its Best

2007-05-17T21:42:00.000-04:00

Cathy - a longtime member of our staff - was asked by a patron to take a ride in a glider. You know, one of those things pulled by another plane into the clouds. Reluctantly, Cathy went along with the idea. Here is Cathy as she is strapped into place.

New Neighbors

2007-05-15T16:54:00.000-04:00

The Headquarters Library will have new neighbors. A new development with condominiums and shops is under construction on the same block as the Library. The project is on the corner of Broad and Liberty. The first picture is looking from Denny's Plaza back toward the Library. The second picture is from the Library looking back. The parking lot to the Library is in the foreground. Construction should be completed in 9-12 months. It's a cool thing.

Is it Coke, Soda or Pop?

2007-05-12T21:13:00.000-04:00

Growing up in South Carolina, a soft drink was always referred to as a Coke. This was especially true in Spartanburg, because of a Coca-Cola bottling plant within two miles from the center of town. By the way, the Spartanburg plant was the first to bottle the plastic two liters back in the late 1970's.

Anyway, the question stands - is it a Coke, Soda or Pop? Alan McConchie decided to quantify the question. Since about 2002, McConchie has measured responses. Here is the map: Pop vs. Soda. The map allows you to "mouse over" the legend to see which region prefers Coke, Pop or Soda. There is a county map that allows you to see specific allegiances. You can enter your town to place a vote.

By the way, according to the map, 50%-80% of folks in Spartanburg still refer to a soft drink as a Coke.

Do You See a Resemblance?

2007-05-09T20:20:00.000-04:00

This is not new information. I stumbled across this the other day. I am not an "emoticon" user, but I did find the background and origins interesting.

The first known transmission of an emoticon:

19-Sep-82 11:44 Scott E Fahlman :-)
From: Scott E Fahlman

I propose that the following character sequence for joke markers: :-)
Read it sideways. Actually, it is probably more economical to mark things that are NOT jokes, given current trends. For this, use :-(

If you are interested in the entire story you may visit Scott Fahlman's website:

:-) :-) :-) :-) :-) :-) :-) :-) :-) :-) :-) :-) :-) :-) :-) :-) :-) :-)

More on Kansas

2007-05-09T08:10:00.000-04:00

I have had some interesting reaction to the Greensburg, Kansas photos posted on Monday (photos). I spoke with Kim Harp, legislative reference librarian at the State Library of Kansas, and she told me that the library in Greensburg is destroyed. If you would like to help the Greensburg Library in Kansas you can visit this web page: Greensburg / Kiowa County Library Relief Fund .

***If I was so inclined, I would put a bunch of legal mumble jumble here, but in the end, I would say that your participation is personal, and I would verify how donations were handled before giving.

Libraries' Instant Messaging Service in the News

2007-05-08T07:05:00.000-04:00

In today's Spartanburg Herald-Journal - there is an article about the Libraries' IM service. Go here to read the article: SHJ. For those who don't know, you can reach our IM services by going to the Libraries' homepage - www.infodepot.org and clicking on the "Instant Messaging" button.

On a personal note, thanks to Emily for cleaning-up all of the typos before printing the "discussion."

Have you seen the photos?

2007-05-07T04:17:00.000-04:00

Over the weekend the town of Greensburg, Kansas was devastated by a massive tornado. Here is a link to aerial photos of the community after the tornado. Go here.

Why the posting on Greensburg? I don't know - except to say - the images have made me pause and think.

National Library Legislative Day 2007

2007-05-03T17:59:00.000-04:00

I returned from Washington, DC today. Yesterday was a very full day of meeting with Congressional staff as well as Congressman. The delegation from South Carolina met with Senator Graham's and Senator Demint's staff. In the afternoon, we divided our groups and covered House members. I was on the team that met with Henry Brown, Joe Wilson and Bob Inglis. On the House side we met with staff and the House members.

The message was twofold...appropriations and policy. On appropriations my job was to speak to LSTA and the President's request for $226.18 million for LSTA grants. Folks in Libraryland support the request. On additional appropriations - we covered e-rate and its importance, and the GPO's request for $46 million. On the policy side of our discussion we covered the closing of military base and EPA libraries, net neutrality, the Patriot Act, the National ID card and much more.

It has been a crazy week, but in the end we (the SC delegation) communicated the importance of library's, and the work we all do to make South Carolina a better place.

I am attaching two pictures. The first picture is of Bob Inglis with half of the SC delegation: Tom Gilson, Ray Turner, Inglis, me, Quincy Pugh, and Elizabeth Shupping.

The second picture is just interesting. The first amendment of the US Constitution guarantees the Freedom of Speech, but it does not guarantee that anyone will listen.

Georgetown (Washington, DC) Public Library Burns

2007-04-30T16:48:00.000-04:00

I am in DC for National Legislative Day. While having lunch at a hamburger place - Five Guys -in Georgetown. Ambulances, fire engines, and the police raced down Wisconsin Avenue. Later I found out it was the Georgetown Public Library...destroyed. Their collection was historic and invaluable. Go here for the Washington Post's online article - story. ABC Channel 7 in Washington has this story - go here. The library's website is here: DCPL.

Library's as a Place

2007-04-26T18:38:00.000-04:00

On Wednesday April 25, I received four similar e-mails in about a 60 minute span. The e-mails were about a recent article by the Project for Public Spaces. The article was distributed via their electronic newsletter and titled - Libraries That Matter: Reaching beyond the buzz of high design, libraries are redefining themselves as community centers for the 21st Century. Go here to read the text: Article.

In a couple of e-mails, folks pointed to jamboread!, the Woodruff reading park, and the Headquarters' bike/skateboard rack as examples of public spaces and destinations.

It is hard to look into the crystal ball and see the future. For those who say they know the future of libraries...well, they really don't. It's true...they just don't. I believe that "access" is the key. But even that creates problems. What does access even mean? Access in its purest sense could mean throwing books on a table in the lobby of the library. Maybe it is "meaningful" access. How do we provide meaningful access to information? Is it through self-checkout and downloadable media? Or is it through interpersonal relationships and human connection? Can technology and human relationships co-exist? Well...yes, of course they can. We are more connected now than ever. Maybe it is the quality of the connection.

It is interesting to read the article. Yes, technology plays a role, but is it technology or is it through human interaction that libraries become a public space? Why were jamboread!, the Woodruff Reading Park, and the bike/skateboard rack mentioned in previous e-mails? I don't know, but I believe they were mentioned because they provide a conduit for people to interact. This discussion is interesting, because it forces us (the residents of libraryland) to evaluate what our true role is in a broader context. What do you think?

Farewell to Judge Littlejohn

2007-04-22T14:03:00.000-04:00

The news came late on Saturday. Good ol' Judge Bruce Littlejohn had passed away. A good friend, neighbor, gentleman, scholar, author, public servant, and library patron.

Most folks already know that at 93 years of age that the Judge had a great life. State Representative, Speaker of the House, Chief Justice of the South Carolina Supreme Court and practicing attorney.

He would stop by my office every now and then to talk and to catch-up. I remember the time I looked as if I was in a hurry, and he said "Son, sit down, I'm retired and you have nothing to do." How do you respond to that except with a "Yes, sir."

He would talk about his practice and how he started on Morgan Square with a pencil, a pad and a telephone. That's it. He did not care too much for "new ways."

The Judge would visit the Library once a week to read the Sunday edition of the New York Times. "It gives you perspective", he would say.

The Judge had been a widower for about fifty years. His wife died in her early 40's. I asked the Judge why he never remarried. His response? "I don't want to be with a woman who would want to be with a man like me."

The Judge and I were to have lunch two months ago (I would drive and he would pay), because he had some things he wanted to discuss. The lunch never happened as he ended up going to the hospital for heart surgery. He never fully recovered. I am left to wonder what he wanted to discuss. With Judge Littlejohn - you never really knew where the discussion would go. One thing is for sure...you needed to pay attention, and you needed to be engaged in the conversation.

I will miss the Judge and his wit. He was one of a kind.

Obituary

The Great Turtle Race - 2007

2007-04-22T08:15:00.000-04:00

Today is Earth Day. To celebrate, I thought folks may enjoy following The Great Turtle Race from Costa Rica to the Galapagos Islands. This is day seven of probably a 14 day race. Each turtle is sponsored and is attached with a satellite tracking device. Notice that you can track daily progress using the bar at the bottom of the page. This is the real deal. Go here: http://www.greatturtlerace.com/ or click on the image.

Woodruff's New Reading Park

2007-04-19T07:23:00.000-04:00

The Library in Woodruff has their new reading park. A project that has taken many, many years is now complete. The park connects Georgia and Hayne Streets and features an earthen amphitheatre, benches, sidewalks and lights. The park was paid for with private contributions and a generous gift from the City of Woodruff. A community event "Music on Hayne" is scheduled for June 21. The event is in partnership with the Woodruff Community Center.

WORD 910AM Radio

2007-04-13T18:24:00.000-04:00

Do you know who Steve McCoy is? How about "McCoy in the Morning?" How about the old McDonald's radio contest? "Two all beef patties, special sauce, lettuce, cheese, pickles, onions on a sesame bun." If you could say it in less than five seconds you won a Big Mac. WORD 910AM used to be the radio station in Spartanburg for the "Big Hits." What's a big hit? Well, according to Music Outfitters - here you go:

1. Tonight's The Night, Rod Stewart

2. I Just Want To Be Your Everything, Andy Gibb

3. Best Of My Love, Emotions

4. Love Theme From "A Star Is Born", Barbra Streisand

5. Angel In Your Arms, Hot

6. I Like Dreamin', Kenny Nolan

7. Don't Leave Me This Way, Thelma Houston

8. (Your Love Has Lifted Me) Higher And Higher, Rita Coolidge

9. Undercover Angel, Alan O'Day

10. Torn Between Two Lovers, Mary MacGregor

11. I'm Your Boogie Man, K.C. and The Sunshine Band

12. Dancing Queen, Abba

13. You Make Me Feel Like Dancing, Leo Sayer

14. Margaritaville, Jimmy Buffet

15. Telephone Line, Electric Light Orchestra

16. Whatcha Gonna Do?, Pablo Cruise

17. Do You Wanna Make Love, Peter McCann

18. Sir Duke, Stevie Wonder

19. Hotel California, Eagles

20. Got To Give It Up, Pt. 1, Marvin Gaye

My personal favorite? #14, but I must admit some fond memories of #13, but NEVER #12.

Why is this important? Steve McCoy has made it big in Atlanta. He is now at Star 94 - and one of the longest running morning personalities in the Atlanta market. Today, Steve is just a small part of Spartanburg's history, but that small part is important. Nobody else could have seen Spartanburg through the age of "Disco Duck." Thanks, Steve!

Thanks, Jimbo

2007-04-11T07:29:00.000-04:00

Jimmy Wales' visit has come and gone. He spent some time at the Library and then he taught a class at Converse College. The day ended with a speaking engagement for about 400 people. He talked about the development of Wikipedia and his new search engine Wikia.

Folks have asked me what Jimmy Wales is like and what did I learn about him. Well, he is extremely approachable, but shy. He finds all of the attention that he is receiving as "ridiculous." His mother clips out the newspaper articles, and she is the only one who really keeps up with the articles and publicity. To Wales, home is wherever his wife and daughter are. They try to travel together whenever possible. Yes, he edited his own entry in Wikipedia. Did he violate the wiki etiquette? To him, that's questionable. He likes room temperature Dasani bottled water, almonds and cashews. He uses a Macintosh. He finds Richard Branson (Virgin Air and adventurer) just a regular guy. He is about 2-3 weeks behind on returning email. He does text message to keep in contact with folks as needed. Three guys are traveling around the world with him to produce a documentary on Wikipedia and Wales. Apparently, they have been chased by monkeys in some far off country.

In my mind, Wales is sort of a Pied Piper. In the end, what gets Wales charged up about Wikipedia? The development of community. "Bringing people together."

Channel 4 WYFF interviewed Wales for their 11:00 news. Here is the video link: www.wyff4.com/video/11609089/index.html?taf=gs

Wiki Dude is Coming to Spartanburg

2007-03-30T15:37:00.000-04:00

The Friends of the Spartanburg County Public Libraries present the Dennis L. Bruce Author Series featuring Jimmy Wales. Wales is a founder of Wikipedia. For information on the event go here: WIKI .

Inviting Wales began with a visit to the doctor. I was flipping through a business magazine when I saw an article on the 20 people who have influenced technology. I saw Wales' name, and wondered if we could schedule him for an appearance in Spartanburg. It worked out.

Ironically, Wikipedia has generated a lot of national conversation on the accuracy of entries and the validity of the information submitted. Here is an article from the msnbc website (The word on Wikipedia: Trust but verify).

My brother, a college textbook publishing rep, has told me that professors are refusing to purchase textbooks that have Wikipedia screenshots incorporated into the text.

The April addition of Fast Company has a cover story featuring Wales. It seems that Wales is interested in improving Internet searching. The point of the article is that Google better watch out.

I am amazed at the amount of attention Wales' visit is generating. I have had media outlets trying to position themselves to out scoop the other. In the last seven days, the Jimmy Wales' calendar announcement and event page on our website has had 187 unique visitors.

I look forward to having the community share in this event, and I am especially appreciative of the Friends and Converse College who have shared their resources to help bring Wales to town.

FOUND: Michael Auberry

2007-03-20T14:19:00.000-04:00

Michael Auberry was found today by a search dog. The Boy Scout lost in the woods for the last three days was a little disoriented but safe. This news story is not necessarily blog material, but it is worth noting. Why? Because of Gary Paulsen's Hatchet.

The father expressed in an interview that through the book Hatchet - Michael should have received insight on how to survive in the wilderness. According to the father, the book was assigned reading for school. Congratulations to the searchers who spent hours and days in the wilderness looking for Michael, and congrats to Gary Paulsen as well.

The video interview is embedded in the text of this article: click here.

Wheels on the Bus go Round and Round

2007-03-16T14:26:00.000-04:00

You know the song. It is one of those songs that you sing, and then you wake up at 3:00AM singing it and you can't go back to sleep. Anyway, the buses in Spartanburg will showcase the winners of the Mary Black Foundation's Champion Award winners. Announced this past Fall, Shelia Snoddy, Smith Barney Financial and the Library.

Above is the Library's "bus ad" that will showcase the Library. For more information on the award - click on the image.

South Carolina's New State Librarian

2007-03-14T19:54:00.000-04:00

A new State Librarian is coming to town, and the library community should be pretty darn excited. His name is David Goble and he is (or was) the Dean of Campus Libraries for Central Piedmont Community College (NC).

Here is a short biography: Goble is a 1994 graduate of SILS at UNC-Chapel Hill and is (or was) the dean of libraries at Central Piedmont Community College. He holds a MA in American Literature from the University of South Carolina and a BA in English from The Citadel. Prior to becoming a librarian he spent 18 years in banking. He is a former Marine officer and veteran of the Vietnam conflict.

Hmmm...a person with South Carolina connections, a financial background, a reader of literature and a practitioner of hand to hand combat. Not bad.

His first tour of duty will be our upcoming Library Legislative Day which is Wednesday, March 21. I will have the pleasure of introducing David to public library directors and members of the General Assembly. David, we are glad you are here. ~Todd

From Idea to Fruition

2007-03-10T08:48:00.000-05:00

This past week Ernest Gallo passed away. A wine maker who came across a recipe for wine at the Modesto (CA) Public Library. Founded in 1933, with $5,900, Gallo created a product, marketed it very well, and became a leader in the wine industry.

It all came together in the basement of the Modesto Public Library.

Today, the E & J Gallo Winery currently employs more than 4,600 people and markets its wines throughout the U.S. and over 90 foreign countries, making it one of the largest wine making operations in the world (E&J) . Gallo is involved in charitable pursuits as well (charities) .

What is interesting to think about is this: Who else has come across an idea, and expanded upon it, because of a visit to the public library? We see patrons come and go. There are the regulars and there are those who are nameless. What is their passion, interest, purpose, and how has the public library impacted their life?

Gallo is one example. How fascinating it would be to see what has been created by all of the ideas acquired by patrons because of their visit to the public library.

Thanks to EB for this tip!
Photo Credit: E&J Gallo

Jamboread this Saturday

2007-03-01T18:05:00.000-05:00

Click on the logo for all of the details!

Pen and Paper

2007-02-26T19:41:00.000-05:00

The Spartanburg Herald-Journal ran a story on documents located during the move of the Holcombe/Bomar Law Firm move. Not just documents. The first ever documentation of the beginning of library services in Spartanburg. Click here for the article. Here are some pictures the Herald did not run.

Speaking of Technology

2007-02-25T21:50:00.001-05:00

You have got to see this news story from a station in Canada. This story originally aired in 1993. Now through the magic of YouTube, you can view it as well. Interesting to think that in 1993 there were 15 million Internet users and today well over 1 Billion.

Technology and Change

2007-02-23T16:20:00.000-05:00

I cannot say whether things will get better if we change; what I can say is they must change if they are to get better. --Georg Christoph Lichtenberg

This is an interesting quote from an 18th century German scientist. What would he think today? Change is hard and at times change comes at a rapid pace. We, like others, struggle to stay on the curve. And yes, there are times we may be so far behind that we don't even see the curve.

I think libraries that pride themselves on being ahead of the curve on all fronts all the time increase the risk of foolishly spending the public's money. Some folks have heard the stories of how the Spartanburg Library chose not to embrace Beta and 8-Track tapes. It was determined by staff that these formats may not have value. Interestingly, we were criticized for not having 8-Tracks in our collection. In the end, history proved that 8-Track and Beta were not supported by the market.

This week two changes for the Library came our way. First, the bandwidth supporting our connection to the Internet was increased from 3 megs to 10 megs. Now, I am not an expert nor do I claim to be one, but my understanding is that we could have up to 100 megs depending on the time of day and use. The outcome is a faster connection to the Internet.

Two, we added PC management software. This addition will reduce staff's involvement and allow patrons more control over their Internet sessions. The name of the product is SAM.

We will have to work through any "glitches", but in the end, we will be better suited to serve the public. This week's steps pulled us closer to the curve, but they do not put us on the curve. I will keep you posted as we continue to look ahead.

Winnie Retires

2007-02-17T14:01:00.000-05:00

What kind of name is Winnie? The name itself conjurs up a vision of cute and cuddly Winnie the Pooh. Not Winnie the Scribe of Death.

After 20 years Winnie has retired. Our director of marketing and development has decided to slow down. I will miss her. Today, the Spartanburg Herald-Journal tells the story of how Winnie became the scribe of death. Go here.

What would Christopher Robin think?

A Wedding in the Swamp

2007-02-11T20:58:00.000-05:00

Some creative folks have decided to coordinate a wedding in the swamp. If you are familiar with the Cottonwood Trail then you may have heard about the wetlands. Well, Leah Brown with Hub-Bub, has constructed a wedding in the swamp - titled Scarecrow Wedding. See map and photos below. This is a fun exhibition and a great reason to get outdoors!

The Beatles' 1964 British Invasion

2007-02-07T21:24:00.000-05:00

Today I learned something. Nothing earth shattering---just new. I did not know that you could not legally download Beatles music. It seems that Apple and the Beatles have reached a deal. For the story, Will the Beatles go digital at last?, is located on the BBC News site. From the article, "The Beatles have held back on new music technology in the past - making fans wait until 1986 before they released their albums on CD - but they are now the last major act to abstain from the digital market."

It was on this date in 1964 that the Beatles invaded America. We have seen the Ed Sullivan Show clip before, but have you ever seen the :28 promo Beatles promo prior to the show? Of course, you may find it on YouTube. It's kind of funny. Click here: NBC Promo. Click here for the actual Ed Sullivan Show segment.

For the "official" Beatles web site visit: http://www.beatles.com/ . There are Podcasts, interviews, videos, games and tons of information. Under "The Music" click on "Albums" for a cool visual presentation of their albums.

Note: The Beatles are highly protective of their images. My sincerest apologies for any perceived infringement.

Super Bowl Sunday

2007-02-04T08:49:00.000-05:00

Today the Colts and the Bears face off in Super Bowl XLI (41). For folks who like stuff like this I am pointing you to the Super Bowl History page. Statistics, collectibles, team information, etc. Tonight we should actually have a good game. Colts are favored by 7.

Winter weather or so they say

2007-01-31T17:02:00.000-05:00

When I was a kid I loved looking forward to a snow day. Growing up in the South - snow days were almost as exciting as Christmas morning...almost. I grew up on a street with lots of kids. On a snow day, everyone would meet outside, and the building would begin. There were snow forts, snowmen, sculptures, and yes, the never ending snowball fight. One of the oddest things we would try is bike riding in the snow. It never really worked, but we tried.

Because winter weather was not the norm, finding matching gloves was always difficult. We were not prepared for the day to day winter attire that some kids in other parts of the country would have to prepare for. I would have to dig deep in the closet of our playroom. If one of my brothers or my sister got there first then I would have to use socks. Yes, socks. Sounds pathetic and it was.

I have been asked multiple times...what's with the milk and bread? Folks would ask, Why is it that when there is threatening winter weather in the South that everyone goes out and buys milk and bread? Well, that's easy, French toast. Now that this little secret is out of the bag, can we move on?

Today, it is different. It seems that ice storms are more prevalent. Freezing rain gathering on power lines and trees. It's just not what I remember. Anyway, it's where we are.

The National Weather Service has issued a winter storm warning. Rain, snow, sleet, and freezing rain. Those who know me, know that I love watching the weather. NOAA is my "drug" of choice. Everyone else, The Weather Channel included, base their predictions on the information that NOAA's atmospheric explorers provide.

On Sunday evening, the first prediction of winter weather on Thursday was mentioned. A 30% chance of a wintry mix. Today, at 5:17pm, it is now a 100% chance. So, here I sit...looking toward the West. From my vantage point, I can see my alma mater, Pine Street School. I bet it was crazy today! Just the small mention of snow, and kids go nuts.

There are two things that I have learned from today's school kids. If you want it to snow then you must sleep with your pajamas inside out and backwards and you must sleep with a spoon under your pillow. Now, a quick Internet search shows a reference to these rituals. There seems to be some debate on whether you should use a silver spoon or a wooden spoon. Sacred Heart University's newspaper, The Spectrum, has an article on this phenomena. One ritual mentioned is putting a frozen white crayon under your pillow. Hmmm. I don't know. I guess it is better than an ice cube.

Anyway, the sun is setting and clouds are slowly starting to move in. Is this it? Or will we wake up sorely disappointed? Just in case I need to turn my PJs inside out, put a spoon (wooden and silver) under my pillow, and find some gloves. My sock days are over!

Yesterday in History

2007-01-30T10:26:00.000-05:00

I about missed the boat on this one! On January 29, 1802, John J. Beckley was appointed as the first librarian of the Library of Congress. From the Library of Congress:

On January 29, 1802, Pres. Thomas Jefferson appointed the Clerk of the House of Representatives, his political ally John J. Beckley, to serve concurrently as the first Librarian of Congress. Beckley was born in England on August 4, 1757, and was sent to Virginia eleven years later to work as a scribe for a mercantile firm. He was the first Clerk of the House of Representatives, as well as the first Librarian of Congress. His salary as Librarian could not exceed two dollars a day. John Beckley died on April 8, 1807. His son Alfred inherited a large tract of unsettled land in what today is West Virginia and built the first house in a village that became the city of Beckley, named so by Alfred to honor his father.

For more information you may click on Jefferson's Legacy: A Brief History of the Library of Congress .

Septaquintaquinquecentennial

2007-01-26T13:15:00.000-05:00

The City of Spartanburg sponsored an essay writing contest for the City's 175th birthday (1831-2006). By the way, 175 is referred to as Septaquintaquinquecentennial. The contest was titled "Living in Spartanburg."

On January 22, 2007, City Council recognized the winners of the contest. One young man from Pine Street School was recognized. The title of his essay, "The #1 City" caught my eye. In his one and a half page essay he writes, "The thing about Spartanburg that makes me happy to be living here is that this City holds so many fun events. There's Dickens of a Christmas, the annual Spartanburg Easter Egg Hunt, and the Spartanburg Library's Jamboread."

Well said, young man! The outcome of this effort is a $500 saving bond, and his essay is placed in the City's time capsule.

I wonder...if in 100 years...if Jamboread! will become Jambotelepathy!

Jamboread!

2007-01-23T19:28:00.000-05:00

Jamboread! is March 3. Go here for details:

A bit of news: The John Cotton Dana selection committee met at the American Library Association's mid-winter in Seattle and selected the John Cotton Dana Award winners. We did not make the cut.

Disappointed? Well possibly, but we don't have time for disappointment. We are 5 weeks out from Jam, and there are things to do.

As always, we are grateful to our sponsors, volunteers, partners, and staff.

Jamboread! is trademarked by the Spartanburg County Public Libraries.

A New Use for 45s

2007-01-20T19:19:00.000-05:00

iPod meets the 45 rpm record. So, what's a 45? A 45 is a small vinyl record with one song on one side another song on the other, and it is played on a record player. Personal note: I suddenly feel very old. Anyway, here is a picture of a record player and a 45 rpm record.

A creative entrepreneur has found a new way to use those old 45s. As ironic as it may seem, the hole in the 45 is the exact size of the control wheel on an iPod. So, 45 iPod Cases has created an iPod case made out of 45s. The product, 45 iPod Cases, has 45 different 45s molded to fit iPods. The cost? Well, $45...of course. For more information go here: 45 iPod cases. For the "record" the yellow case is K.C. and the Sunshine Band. hhhmm...I think I will refrain from commenting.

Happy Trails

2007-01-20T11:02:00.000-05:00

Todays' Spartanburg Herald- Journal featured out going Librarian, Jackie Todor. Jackie, a Louisiana State Library School graduate, is retiring after 33 years of service to Spartanburg County. Click here to read the article.

So, what does one say to someone after 33 years of service? I guess the most likely thing to say is, "Job well done." But, just for kicks I am adding a link to "Happy Trails" sung by, Roy Rogers, Dale Evans & Perry Como. Click on this YouTube link. I think that pretty much sums it up!

All in 4 Days Work

2007-01-19T07:12:00.000-05:00

It's been a busy week. Due to MLK Day festivities, we have crammed 5 business days into 4. The week has been packed with meetings. There has been staff meetings, Board of Trustees, lunch with donors, job interviews for an open position, and a legislative budget hearing.

Our legislative work began on Tuesday. The State Library presented its budget to the House Ways and Means subcommittee (Chip Limehouse, Lanny Littlejohn, Denny Nielson, and Jim Merrill).

The Association of Public Library Adminstrators presented as well. I was given the opportunity to address the committee on behalf of the State's public libraries. You may click here for a more detailed post on our budget request. It is hard to determine the most important part of our budget request.

One item that is important to all libraries is a request to increase Aid to Public Libraries from $2.00 per capita to $3.00 per capita. The total for this item is $12,119,457 or an increase of $3,929,819. This would also bring the minimum grant up from $50,000 to $60,000 for smaller counties. For Spartanburg County we would realize about $760,000.

Aid to Public Libraries may be used for collection development, staff and programming. Aid is money that goes back into the communities for services to the people. As the legislative season unfolds, we will have to keep libraries in front of our lawmakers. It is going to be a big legislative year. Stay tuned.