Innovations from America's Best Small Libraries 2011

Originally presented September 20, 2011.

Library Journal's annual Best Small Library in America Award, sponsored by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, was created in 2005 to encourage and showcase the exemplary work of libraries serving populations under 25,000. In collaboration with the Association for Rural and Small Libraries, we are hosting this webinar with 2011 finalists. This year's winner, Naturita Community Library (CO), serves a population of only 2,100 with technology, distance education, and programming supporting all the community's lifelong learning needs. The Ames Free Library (North Easton, MA) bridges the computing gap with a nimble thin-client network, wireless access, and laptops for patron use, along with Computer Tutors who help bring patrons to the next level. Page Public Library (AZ) offers almost daily programs for patrons across the age spectrum and addresses patron technology needs including equipment to access distance learning. Join Susan Rice, branch supervisor, Naturita Community Library; Paul Paladino, director, Montrose Regional Library District; Madeline Miele Holt, director, Ames Free Library; Debbie Winlock, director, Page Public Library; and Library Journal's executive editor, Rebecca Miller for an hour of innovative and practical inspiration from three of America's best small libraries.

Use this hashtag for tweets: #bestsmlib

Archive viewing options:

• View full Archive (combined archive of audio, slides, and chat)
  

Resources and Links:

• Association for Rural and Small Libraries
• 2011 Nomination Information at Library Journal and Award Information Flyer (attached pdf)
  
• Previous year's award winners:
  2005: Haines Borough Public Library, Alaska
  2006: Milanof-Schock Library, Mount Joy, Pennsylvania
  2007: Grand County Public Library, Utah
  2008: Chelsea District Library, Michigan and WebJunction webinar with Chelsea
  2009: Union County Carnegie Library, South Carolina and WebJunction webinar with Union County
  2010: Glen Carbon Centennial Library, Illinois and WebJunction webinar with Anne M. Hughes

• Easton, MA, home of Ames Free Library voted one of Money magazine's Best Places to Live 2011
• Strengthening Community Networks: the Basis for Sustainable Community Renewal
• Page Public Library on Facebook
• Naturita Community Library Program Resources (templates and handouts)
• Naturita Community Library on Facebook
• Remember to use TechSoup for technology donations!
• Ames Free Library uses www.constantcontact.com for their e-newlsetter
• See archives of Ames Free Library e-newsletter or sign up! amesfreelibrary.org/ENews_signup.htm