The Washington State Library has compiled a group of resources called Hard Times in Washington Libraries for the purpose of giving libraries, library staff, and library users ideas and tools to adapt to the current and upcoming fiscal crunch.
Included in the staff section of Hard Times are resources for Grants, learning opportunities, and advocacy, as well as a blog for ongoing additions and updates.
They have also created a page on WebJunction Washington containing resources that library staff can use to help patrons. It was through this resource that I found a great four-page document called Shifting Gears : Rethinking Resources in Tough Times (pdf) created by Rose Chenowith, Library Development Consultant for the Alliance Library System in Illinois, who has worked with Reaching Forward South (my former place of conference).
This is a model for one way that libraries can get the word out and make a difference. Ask yourself what you can do. Check out what resources your area can provide. WebJunction, your state library, your regional library systems, and various community organizations offer many resources that can make a difference for you, your library, and your library’s patrons.
found via LISNews
Hi Rick,
Thanks for the mention, and glad we were able to help you find some useful documents!
We’re constantly adding new resources for library users and staff, and documenting “hard times” developments on our blog @ http://blogs.secstate.wa.gov/libdev/index.php/category/hard-times/.
– Ahniwa @ Washington State Library