Vision Statement: 

The Southeast Library System envisions a world where libraries and individuals have direct and equal access to the diverse resources needed for education, work and leisure.  Technological developments will continue to challenge us to help libraries keep pace with the changing role of our profession.

 

 Mission Statement:

The Southeast Library System works proactively with library personnel and with other agencies to help them meet and serve the diverse informational, educational, cultural and recreational needs of the citizens of the region through their libraries.

 

 

Southeast Library System Plan 2008-2009

(Revised at August 2008 SELS Board Planning Retreat)

 

Service Role 1: Training and Consulting

To increase awareness of and provide access to continuing education opportunities and technology training, coordinating efforts and activities with Nebraska Library Commission, Nebraska Educational Media Association (NEMA) and the Nebraska Library Association (NLA) when possible.

 

Goal 1: To offer continuing education and training opportunities for members.

 

Objectives:

 

1.          Provide training for all members of our system, including but not limited to:

             A.        TRUSTEES

·         Library Trustee training – Minimum of 2 events per year

·         Work with Public Library Trustee Section (PLTS) to determine training needs of trustees

·         Develop a generic trustee recruitment brochure that could be used and adapted by member libraries and communities.

·         Monthly e-mail prompts for library board discussions and continuing education hours could be an off shoot from the Future Search conference and done in cooperation with the other regional library systems.

 

B.        CHILDREN’S LIBRARIANS/SCHOOL MEDIA SPECIALISTS

      • Summer Reading “Plus” program training
      • Youth Services Retreat in cooperation with Eastern Library System. 
      • NEMA/SELS Training - this has been a collaborative effort we want to continue and investigate methods to encourage attendance and participation. 
      • Organize a workshop on serving young adults, perhaps in collaboration with the NLA Young Adult Round Table. 

 

                        C.        GENERAL INTEREST

      • NLA Pre-conference program (in cooperation with the regional library systems)
      • Training Extravaganza, a daylong regional conference, addressing multiple continuing education concerns with a variety of sessions, including a technology track.
      • 23 Things Retreat – perhaps in cooperation with Eastern Library System (ELS).
      • Organize a training session for libraries in recruiting volunteers and outlining library procedures for substitute staff, perhaps at the Training Extravaganza, that focuses on making volunteering attractive and use of youth volunteers.
      • “Green” Programs – perhaps a track at SELS Annual Training Extravaganza, and use of SELS van in providing group transportation (carpooling) to continuing education events.

 

                        D.        PUBLIC LIBRARIANS

      • Universal Service Fund discounts/e-rate participation training.
      • CASTL training - Provide a personal invitation to small libraries when a CASTL meeting is in their area using letterhead or letterhead postcards. Encourage library buddy system or mentor roles. SELS staff will send out an e-mail every time, and encourage the library director in region hosting to also make a special effort in inviting small libraries in the region. During the CASTL meeting where locations and dates are planned for the year, get a map and highlight libraries in the region to contact. Include special and institutional libraries in invitations to CASTL meetings.

·         Plan a joint CASTL and media specialists/ youth services meeting once a year.

        • Plan a joint library trustees and CASTL meeting once a year.
        • Plan a joint CASTL and library friends meeting once a year.
      • Basic Skills Participation – Module migration and instruction

 

 

2.         Promote independent learning and development.

A.        Provide a list of SELS journal subscriptions for SELS members, and a monthly routing list maintained on each. An annual announcement in SoLiS, September/October issue, and on the SELS listserv will be provided to support awareness of this service. The system will investigate collaboration with other regional library systems for journal routing.

 

B.        Investigate cost of online subscriptions for currently routed journals, and other tools like Podcasts, Vodcasts and eJournal links.

 

3.         Solicit input on CE needs and evaluation of training programs.

 

A.    Provide evaluation opportunities for input from members at training sessions, in the newsletter and through the website.

 

B.     The SELS Board and Continuing Education Committee will assist with follow-up and evaluation of training programs with an electronic survey and needs assessment and experiment with follow-up phone surveys to participating system members.

 

Goal 2: To create a network of support through onsite visits, telephone, mail and e-mail by SELS staff or by matching those with questions to individuals and/or other agencies who may be able to provide assistance.

 

Objectives:

 

1.         Requests by members for assistance and/or information will be responded to promptly in the format most appropriate (mail, phone, in-person, e-mail, fax).

 

2.         Visits with librarians will be scheduled as specific onsite needs arise, such as, a new library director, library board education, and additional in-house projects.

 

3.         Bibliostat (online statistical report for public libraries) consultation and support will be available.

 

4.         A toll-free number for communication with SELS staff is maintained.

 

5.         Consultation data will be categorized to be used as basis for planning continuing education and responding to member needs.

 

6.         Meet and greets with member libraries will be scheduled using teams from SELS Board and staff.  Particular attention will be given to communities that we’ve not had regular contact with, and SELS will offer to bring the coffee and crumpets. Member packets which include information on SELS and system activities and services will be distributed.

 

7.         The SELS electronic mail lists and SoLiS will be utilized as avenues for discussion on library-related issues.  Explore wikis, blogs, podcasts, and vodcasts as new communication tools for sharing information, as well as set up and use of mailing lists on new website host:  www.selsne.org.

 

8.      Take steps to implement a mentor program for new librarians, where they are matched up with a “veteran.”

 

9.      Develop the “Share Library Programs & Staff” idea for specific ideas on     potential staff and/or programs, handouts, computer assistance, list of resources, and/or problems & solutions that might be adaptable to sharing in person or online. SELS Staff & Board will be alert for opportunities that could be well served by sharing of materials and resources, or that would offer advantages through group purchase.

 

10.  Consider statewide online resources:  the population served, subject area covered and data usage and share that information with NLC and NRLS in an effort to respond to broadest possible audience.  Data and knowledge from this could be used as a case of support with the Nebraska Unicameral and in pursuing additional statewide purchases.

 

Goal 3: To promote CE events beyond those offered by SELS.

 

            Objectives:

           

1.         Seek out funding opportunities and grants to share with library staff, boards and library friends and supporters.  

 

2          Promote formal educational programs for an Associate and Master’s level in library and information management.

 

3.         Promote and coordinate attendance at conferences outside the region, so transportation and travel costs may be shared.

 

4.         Solicit and promote information about CE events sponsored by local libraries or other groups that are open to all.

5.         Share and post regional CE events and SELS calendar.

 

 

Goal 4:  To serve as the Masters of Library Science contact for 8 Department of Correctional Services Libraries.

 

            Objectives:

 

            1.         Provide at minimum 5-hour training, biannually to Corrections Libraries.

2.         Meet with librarian onsite at each of the facilities:  Omaha Correctional Center, Lincoln Correctional Center, Nebraska Corrections Youth Facility, Nebraska State Penitentiary, Tecumseh State Correctional Institution, Diagnostic & Evaluation Center, Nebraska Correctional Center for Women (York), Work Ethic Camp (McCook).

 

3.         Offer support and collaborate with Nebraska Department of Correctional Services Library Coordinator in assisting with services of Corrections’ libraries.  Three areas identified are:  Establish a Core Reference List; Coordinate a Wish List of Materials for Corrections’ Libraries; Create and Update a Corrections’ Libraries Policy & Procedure Manual.

 

 

Service Role 2:  Promotion

To assist all types of libraries to become hospitable and vibrant “community” centers staffed with well-informed professionals.  Libraries are the front porch of their “communities” where citizens come to connect with each other and the world.

  

Goal 1: To encourage expansion of library influence and support within communities, regions and the state through librarian involvement in library and non-library groups.

 

            Objectives:

 

1.         SELS will act as an information clearinghouse for conferences, meetings, activities and events and post on a system-wide calendar and invite system members to contribute.

 

A.        Provide information on conferences and activities outside the library realm.

 

B.        Participate in Nebraska legislative activities by attending hearings and activities concerning library services and/or legislation, cultivate contacts with senators concerning the role of librarians in Nebraska and subscribe to publications such as the Nebraska Municipal Review and Unicameral Update in an effort to keep informed.

 

C.        Invite senators representing southeast Nebraska to a meet and greet with SELS board, staff and members prior to the start of the 2009 Legislative session.

 

D.        Encourage member libraries to be involved with advocacy activities on a grassroots level. That information will be included in SELS visits to small libraries and in an annual SoLiS article, as well as reference to Future Search toolkit to help jumpstart stated advocacy issues.

 

 

2.         Provide information or contacts for various groups throughout the region and/or state to assist librarians in networking with groups that are directly or indirectly aligned with library issues.

 

3.         Contact with local, state, and federal elected officials will be encouraged and news of legislative activities and issues that affect librarians and libraries will be shared through appropriate communication channels, such as webpage, e-mail lists, SoLiS, RSS feeds, etc.

 

4.         Maintain a relationship with the Nebraska Library Commissioners.

 

A.        A SELS board member or members will volunteer to attend Nebraska Library Commissioners meetings in order to share local or regional library activities and to participate in statewide library conversations.

 

B.        Invite the commissioner from the southeast area of the state to each SELS Board meeting.

 

C.        Include highlights from the meetings of the library commissioners in the SoLiS and/or on the SELS webpage.         

 

Goal 2:  Provide member libraries with access to resources beyond what can be provided locally to enhance knowledge, presentations, programs, and more.

 

            Objectives:

           

1.         maintain and purchase library of dies for loaning to local libraries is in support of the summer reading theme each year.

 

2.         Make available a laptop and LCD projector to libraries for use in putting together community presentations.

 

3.         Maintain book bags in support of One Book One Nebraska, One Book for Nebraska Kids, One Book for Nebraska Teens, young adult reading groups and more for lending to member libraries. 

           

4.         Promote resources available from member libraries to other members throughout SELS.

 

5.                  Include new technologies in the type of equipment available for loan; past examples include mp3 players and Wii machines.

 

6.                  Explore opportunities and methods for outside support and collaboration with Nebraska Association of Institutional Librarians (NAIL). One example might be a wish list put out annually by SELS via the newsletter or e-mail list.

 

Goal 3:  Encourages member libraries’ efforts to enhance their presence in the community as a welcome place for all.

 

            Objectives:

 

1.         Offer visits by SELS staff, board members, or member libraries to evaluate the appearance of the local facility.

·         “Fine front porch” – less formal entry with an emphasis on hospitality

·         Welcome, Stranger: Public Libraries Build the Global Village Took Kit published by the Urban Libraries Council is an example of a tool that can be used to assist efforts, as well as Future Search toolkit resources as they become available.

 

2.         Collect and publicize program and promotion ideas from member libraries.  Future Search brainstorming ideas included:

·                     Grandparents reading to kids

·                     ­ Singing

·                     ­ Serve seasonal beverages

·                     ­ Read around the posies

·                     ­ Rock-a-thon

·                     ­ Kool-aid stand

·                     ­ Spooning

·                     ­ Birdhouses

·                     ­ Ice cream socials

·                     ­ Bluegrass

·                     ­ Shoebox social

·                     ­ Gaming bees – “Wii-Bee”

·                     ­ Film festival – outdoors; make community films

·                     ­ Chautauqua

·                     ­ Greeters

·                     ­ Local art displays

·                     ­ Historical reenactment

·                     ­ Make your own video

·                     ­ Open microphone events

·                     ­ Outreach to determine what is done (especially                                 diverse populations)

·                     ­ Curbside service on roller skates

·                     ­ Drinks and books

·                     ­ Facebook, Myspace; and whatever is next

·                     ­Posters where our neighbors are (bars, churches, exercise/sports facilities )

 

3.      Have an annual promotion of the library as a welcome place sponsored by the SELS board.

 

Goal 4:  Utilize a variety of media resources to promote information about and activities of SELS and member libraries.

 

            Objectives:

 

1.         Publish SoLiS 6 times a year as a source for information and discussion among librarians. Publication includes an electronic format with e-mails alerting members of availability.

 

A.        Events at local libraries are a regular feature

 

B.        Calendar includes upcoming non-library events

 

C.        Spotlights on individual libraries and/or staff or board members are considered

 

2.         The SELS’ web presence contains current information regarding system and other library related activities. Email will be sent via electronic mailing lists to inform members of webpage updates.

 

3.         An annual report will be printed for distribution to the board, librarians, and others outside the library profession as information and/or an introduction to system and library activities. Statistical information, as well as geographic references, and activities will be included as a part of a basic overview.

 

Service Role 3: Management of SELS Resources

To carry out the duties and goals of a regional library system while serving SELS members efficiently, effectively, and in an environmentally conscious manner.

 

Goal 1: Work within the budget provided to SELS from the Nebraska Library Commission while looking for additional funds from other sources.

 

            Objectives:

 

1.         SELS staff will work with the executive committee prior to the Annual Meeting in developing a line item budget in support of system services and activities to be adopted and approved at the Annual Meeting.

2.         A budget report reflecting biennial dates and funding, two month expenses and income, as well as percentage of budget line expenditures year to date will be provided at each SELS board meeting.

 

3.         Funding from NLC is provided on a biennial basis and funds for those respective years will be used within that time-frame with minimal encumbrances with requests for NLC funding to be made in a timely manner. 

 

4.         Investigate alternative sources for funds and special projects that contribute to the goals of SELS.

 

 5.        Collaborate with SELS Friends, now established with their own board and bylaws to operate as a separate entity in supporting SELS financially, as well as providing promotional support of system activities and roles within southeast Nebraska.

 

6.         SELS will have an annual review of financial situation by a certified accountant. SELS will also have accountant compile payroll taxes monthly.

 

Goal 2: SELS staff and board members will work within the guidelines required of 501c3 organizations.

 

            Objectives:

 

1.        Review and update SELS Bylaws, personnel, and other policies will be done biennially by the executive committee. Bylaws will be reviewed by September of years ending in even numbers, and policies by September of years ending in an odd number.

 

2.         File appropriate tax forms on-time with the Internal Revenue Service and the Nebraska Department of Revenue. SELS procedures will reflect necessary forms as well as dates due to help assure compliance.

 

3.         Retain financial records at the SELS office with the assistance of the system accountant and auditor.

 

4.         Investigate the system’s current procedures in bonding to include evaluation of the amount, staff covered, and requirements for a 501c3.

 

5.         Biannual review by the SELS Executive Committee Articles of incorporation with Bylaws.

 

 

 

Goal 3: SELS staff will organize office materials and resources.

 

            Objectives:

 

1.         Develop and maintain a filing system for organization of information and financial materials to promote accessibility.

 

2.         Weed the SELS library and make it ready for cataloging for availability to members online. We will investigate online tools such as Library Thing or Shelfari, as well as approaching Biblionix for a free subscription to Apollo automation system as a resource in assisting member libraries using that system, or in demonstrating an online catalog.

 

3.         Maintain the system’s collection of journals with back issues on file for a minimum of 1 year.

 

4.         Maintain a permanent file containing back issues of SoLiS. Other potential archival materials may be sent to the NLC for consideration.

 

5.         NLC may be consulted on guidelines for electronic archival.

 

6.         Recycle as appropriate discarded materials.

 

Goal 4: To update and maintain office equipment, including the SELS vehicle, to ensure productive use of staff time and system materials.

 

            Objectives:

 

1.         Maintain a service agreement on the System-owned copier/printer.

 

2.         Evaluate computers, printers, fax and software for upgrade at least every 2 years.  Energy star ratings will be considered when purchasing to gain information on environmentally friendly products and equipment.

 

3.         Maintain the System vehicle according to mileage and maintenance recommendations from the owner’s manual.   Every 5 years purchase of a new vehicle will be pursued.

 

4.         Maintain insurance coverage on system equipment and reviewed annually.

 

5.         Keep a list of property owned by the system on file at the SELS office and at a remote location.

 

6.         Write and maintain check-out procedures for SELS equipment and materials with statistics retained for evaluation and use.

 

7.         Establish a computer back-up procedure for system files and records.