RFP for Accessibility Academy Project Consultant: Deadline extended to Nov. 20

ASCLA has extended the deadline for its RFP for a project consultant to 6:00 p.m. Central Time on Tuesday, November 20, 2012. Download the complete RFP.

The consultant will assist in the production of an online, interactive ASCLA Accessibility Academy module focused on improving library staff communications and interactions with people with disabilities.

ASCLA, a division of ALA, serves librarians who work primarily with people with disabilities. The ASCLA Accessibility Academy aims to provide information and skills training that will prepare librarians and staff at public, academic, special, and international libraries to work with these special populations. The Project Consultant will develop and implement the first Academy module, which will include an online tutorial and webinars, and will assemble manage an advisory team to provide long-term feedback on project deliverables and content, and also provide evaluation assistance.

Project deliverables to be managed by the consultant include one online tutorial on working with people with disabilities, presented live twice and also recorded, by May 1, 2013, to be presented by the consultant or an identified subject matter expert; a selection of reference tools for distribution for the tutorial such as tip sheets, checklists, vocabulary list, and additional reading; a logo and other branding materials for the Accessibility Academy; a prioritized list of future topics for future sessions; a documented framework for future Academy sessions; development of criteria and procedures for evaluating the modules; and a list of presenters for future sessions.

A complete version of the RFP is available for download from the ASCLA website. Applicants must submit one print or email copy, and one copy on a CD of the proposal by 6:00pm CT on Monday, October 15, 2012 to: American Library Association, Attention: Susan Hornung/ASCLA, 50 East Huron Street, Chicago, IL 60611-2795; e-mail: shornung@ala.org

Email submissions must have “ASCLA Accessibility Academy RFP” in the subject line of the message. Proposals not received by the date and time specified may not be considered and will be returned to the sender marked “LATE RESPONSE.” Faxed submissions will not be accepted. Contact ASCLA Executive Director Susan Hornung at shornung@ala.org or (312) 280-4395 with any questions about the RFP content or submission process.

ASCLA seeks proposals for 2013 webinars

ASCLA invites subject matter experts and experienced librarians with knowledge to share to submit proposals for ASCLA webinars to be presented in 2013 as a part of ASCLA’s outstanding online learning offerings.

ASCLA welcomes proposals on topics that will assist our diverse membership in improved service delivery and job performance, as well as topics that reflect ASCLA’s expertise and are valuable for all types of libraries, librarians and library support staff across the profession. Proposals will be accepted on a rolling basis until all available presentation slots for 2013 are filled. Webinar presenters are compensated for their work and will receive training and support for Blackboard Collaborate, the webinar technology platform used by the division.

More information about the submission process and ASCLA’s online learning offerings is at the ASCLA website under the Online Learning section. Access the proposal form now.

Proposal topics for courses and webinars may include, but are not limited to the following:

ADA updates for libraries; adult programming in a correctional library; eBooks; assessing accessibility knowledge; benchmarks and evaluation measures; best practices, standards and guidelines to improve library service; innovative services for an aging population; budgeting; collaborative digitization; correctional librarianship 101: covering the basics of a good prison/jail library; data analysis and assessment; dealing with learning disabilities; designing effective surveys; cultivating member loyalty through relationships in cooperative organizations; download training for patrons who use screen readers; emerging technologies for those with special needs, including apps and iPads; evaluating and improving cooperative services; evaluation content analysis; financial literacy; future trends in library service; GIS training; grants: how to find grant funding and write your proposal; group purchasing; health literacy; how to be a consultant; how to be a futurist; how to deliver online training; how to hire a library consultant; nonprofit leadership; increasing public understanding of the value of libraries; innovations in library service; law librarianship for correctional librarians; managing and improving services in a library cooperative; marketing library services to special needs populations; marketing on a shoestring budget; navigating book selection sources; outcomes-based education; outreach skills; outreach to visually or physically handicapped populations; partnering with community organizations; project planning; public education as a marketing tool; recognizing great service in member libraries; seeking grants for consultancy work; services to library patrons with cognitive or mental impairments; low-literacy adults; diverse populations, including special needs populations; tablet computers; training staff to confidently serve library users with disabilities, and raising awareness of this important population; technology trends for special needs populations; utilizing focus groups to prioritize services to the disabled; and working with refugees.

Questions about submissions or about ASCLA’s online learning programs should be sent to Andrea Hill, ASCLA web manager and primary online learning contact at ahill@ala.org.

RFP issued for ASCLA Accessibility Academy Project Consultant

The Association of Specialized and Cooperative Library Agencies (ASCLA) has issued an RFP for a project consultant to assist in the production of an online, interactive ASCLA Accessibility Academy module focused on improving library staff communications and interactions with people with disabilities; responses are due by Monday, Oct. 15, 2012.

ASCLA, a division of ALA, serves librarians who work primarily with people with disabilities. The ASCLA Accessibility Academy aims to provide information and skills training that will prepare librarians and staff at public, academic, special, and international libraries to work with these special populations. The Project Consultant will develop and implement the first Academy module, which will include an online tutorial and webinars, and will assemble manage an advisory team to provide long-term feedback on project deliverables and content, and also provide evaluation assistance.

Project deliverables to be managed by the consultant include one online tutorial on working with people with disabilities, presented live twice and also recorded, by May 1, 2013, to be presented by the consultant or an identified subject matter expert; a selection of reference tools for distribution for the tutorial such as tip sheets, checklists, vocabulary list, and additional reading; a logo and other branding materials for the Accessibility Academy; a prioritized list of future topics for future sessions; a documented framework for future Academy sessions; development of criteria and procedures for evaluating the modules; and a list of presenters for future sessions.

A complete version of the RFP is available for download from the ASCLA website. Applicants must submit one print or email copy, and one copy on a CD of the proposal by 6:00pm CT on Monday, October 15, 2012 to: American Library Association, Attention: Susan Hornung/ASCLA, 50 East Huron Street, Chicago, IL 60611-2795; e-mail: shornung@ala.org

Email submissions must have “ASCLA Accessibility Academy RFP” in the subject line of the message. Proposals not received by the date and time specified may not be considered and will be returned to the sender marked “LATE RESPONSE.” Faxed submissions will not be accepted. Contact ASCLA Executive Director Susan Hornung at shornung@ala.org or (312) 280-4395 with any questions about the RFP content or submission process.

ASCLA, a division of the American Library Association (ALA), is a diverse organization of librarians and support staff who work in academic and public libraries, state agencies, specialized libraries and cooperatives, as well as those who are self-employed. Our division’s work centers on member-driven interest groups that represent the diversity and important work of our engaged and active members. Not an ASCLA member, but interested in forming new interest groups, receiving discounted registration rates on ASCLA preconferences and online courses, and other important membership benefits? Join, renew or add ASCLA to your ALA membership at www.ala.org/membership.

ASCLA Awards: Nomination period now open for awards representing ASCLA’s diverse areas of library services

CHICAGO – The Association for Specialized and Cooperative Library Agencies (ASCLA) welcomes nominations for its 2013 awards which recognize projects focused on library services to people with disabilities; the advancement of library services for the blind and physically handicapped; exceptional achievement in extension and outreach services; exemplary leadership and achievement in consulting, state library services and library cooperatives; and service to ASCLA.

Each of these five prestigious awards–the Leadership and Professional Achievement Award, the Exceptional Service Award, the Cathleen Bourdon Service Award, the ASCLA/KLAS/NOD Award and the Francis Joseph Campbell Award–highlights the areas of work represented by ASCLA, a division of ALA. The nomination deadline for all awards is December 15, 2012. Click on the award names below to access each award’s webpage for more information, including nomination criteria and links to nomination forms.

The ASCLA/KLAS/NOD Award is sponsored by ASCLA, the National Organization on Disability (NOD) and Keystone Systems, Inc. This $1,000 award and citation are given to a library organization that has provided services for people with disabilities. The award recognizes an innovative and well-organized project that successfully developed or expanded services for people with disabilities. The award can be for a specific service(s) program or for a library that has made its total services more accessible through changing physical and/or attitudinal barriers. Download the award nomination form (PDF).

The Francis Joseph Campbell Award honors a person or institution for outstanding and significant contributions in this field of service with a medal and a citation. Contributions include but are not limited to: an imaginative and constructive program in a particular library; a recognized contribution to the national library program for blind persons; creative participation in library associations or organizations that advance reading for the blind; a significant publication or writing in the field; or imaginative contribution to library administration, reference, circulation, selection, acquisitions or technical services; or any activity of recognized importance. The award is sponsored by Keystone Systems, Inc. and the Southern Conference of the National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped (NLS), Library of Congress.  Download the award nomination form (PDF).

The Exceptional Service Award recognizes exceptional service to patients, to persons who are homebound, to people of all ages who live in group homes or residences and to inmates, as well as to recognize professional leadership, effective interpretation of programs, pioneering activity and significant research or experimental projects. The recipient receives a citation. Download the award nomination form (PDF).

The Leadership and Professional Achievement Award is a citation presented to one or more ASCLA members (personal or organizational) exemplifying leadership and achievement in the following areas: consulting, library cooperation, networking, statewide services and programs and state library development. Download the award nomination form (PDF).

The Cathleen Bourdon Service Award is a citation presented to an ASCLA personal member for exceptional service and sustained leadership to the division. This includes participation in activities that have enhanced the stature, reputation and overall strength of ASCLA and have also cultivated the division’s relationship with other appropriate organizations, institutions or governmental agencies. Download the award nomination form (PDF).

Those interested in submitting a nomination may download the appropriate award nomination form from the awards section of the ASCLA website. Nominations for all awards must be received by Dec. 15, 2012. Submission information can be found on each nomination form.

ASCLA, a division of the American Library Association (ALA), is a diverse organization of librarians and support staff who work in academic and public libraries, state agencies, specialized libraries and cooperatives, as well as those who are self-employed. Our division’s work centers on member-driven interest groups that represent the diversity and important work of our engaged and active members. Not an ASCLA member, but interested in forming new interest groups, receiving discounted registration rates on ASCLApreconferences and online courses, and other important membership benefits? Join, renew or add ASCLA to your ALA membership at www.ala.org/membership.

ASCLA in Italy: Reservation deadline for tour of Rome and Amalfi Coast extended to Sept. 21

The last day to reserve your spot for “ASCLA in Italy”, a trip hosted by the Association of Specialized and Cooperative Library Agencies (ASCLA), a division of ALA, is Sept. 21, 2012.

This trip abroad will take place April 15-24, 2013, and all interested travelers are welcome—you do not need to be a member in order to participate. Voyagers will convene in Rome, then head to the Amalfi Coast, spending time in Sorrento, Puglia, Amalfi, Positano, Ravello, Sorrento and Capri. Upon returning to Rome, tour participants will visit  the National Library, the Vatican Museum, the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica.

“ASCLA in Italy” follows a sold out adventure to Paris, taken earlier in 2012, and an upcoming tour of Ireland this October. A portion of all these trips benefits ASCLA, the division of ALA serving state library agencies, specialized libraries, library cooperatives, special populations librarians and library consultants.

The cost for this this trip is 8 nights for $2950 plus airfare. A portion of the trip’s proceeds benefit ASCLA. Download the trip brochure (PDF) for more information. The trip cost includes 8 nights accommodations, 8 breakfasts, 8 dinners, 2 lunches, a cooking class, guided tours throughout the trip, motor coach transportation, roundtrip ferry and funicular to Capri, Blue Grotto tour, cruise on the Amalfi coast and admission to the Vatican. Participants are responsible for their own airfare.

Deposits in the amount of $500 are due by September 21, 2012, with the balance due by January 15, 2013. Checks should be made payable to Lyceum Tours. Questions about the trip should be directed to the ASCLA office at ascla@ala.org or 312-280-4395, or Lyceum Tours at 856-795-9044 or lyceum46@yahoo.com.

Library consultants! Sign up now to offer free services as part of “Consultants Give Back” at ALA Annual Conference

The Association of Specialized and Cooperative Library Agencies (ASCLA) and the Public Library Association (PLA) are teaming up to offer “Consultants Give Back” at the 2012 ALA Annual Conference in Anaheim, Calif.—an opportunity for libraries to receive free 30-minute consultation sessions from professional library consultants.

This event features consultants with expertise in a wide variety of topics like RFID, marketing and communications, executive searches, buildings and facilities, strategic planning and library trends, among many others. Participating consultants will be available during the “Consultants Give Back” office hours, 1:30-5:30 p.m. in room 203B of the Anaheim Convention Center on Sunday, June 24 or at other times throughout the conference. Registration is now open for consultants wishing to offer services as a part of this exciting event. Access the consultant registration form here.

For those seeking consulting services, a list of participating consultants and their availability will be available on the ASCLA website in early May, and will be promoted via the ASCLA blog, ASCLA Facebook page and ASCLA Twitter feed. Those interested in booking a session should contact the consultant of their choice no later than Monday, June 20, 2012.

Questions about the consultation sessions should be directed to Nancy Bolt at nancybolt@earthlink.net or Paula Singer pmsinger@singergrp.com. Consultants interested in engaging and networking with library consulting peers for the benefit of all independent library professionals should join ASCLA’s Library Consultants Interest Group.

Rockstars wanted! Nominations accepted thru Dec. 15 for ASCLA’s 2012 awards

The 2012 awards offered by the Association for Specialized and Cooperative Library Agencies (ASCLA) are an excellent chance to recognize colleagues, institutions or particular programs for their contributions to ASCLA and the areas of librarianship in which they serve.

The nomination deadline is Dec. 15, 2011 for the awards, which recognize accomplishments in the following areas:

Projects focused on library services to people with disabilities: The ASCLA/KLAS/NOD Award is sponsored by ASCLA, the National Organization on Disability (NOD) and Keystone Systems, Inc. This $1,000 award and citation are given to a library organization that has provided services for people with disabilities. The award recognizes an innovative and well-organized project that successfully developed or expanded services for people with disabilities. The award can be for a specific service(s) program or for a library that has made its total services more accessible through changing physical and/or attitudinal barriers. Download the award nomination form (PDF).

Advancement of library service for the blind and physically handicapped: The Francis Joseph Campbell Award honors a person or institution for outstanding and significant contributions in this field of service with a medal and a citation. Contributions include but are not limited to: an imaginative and constructive program in a particular library; a recognized contribution to the national library program for blind persons; creative participation in library associations or organizations that advance reading for the blind; a significant publication or writing in the field; or imaginative contribution to library administration, reference, circulation, selection, acquisitions or technical services; or any activity of recognized importance. The award is sponsored by Keystone Systems, Inc. and the Southern Conference of the National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped (NLS), Library of Congress.  Download the award nomination form (PDF).

Extension and Outreach Services: The Exceptional Service Award recognizes exceptional service to patients, to persons who are homebound, to people of all ages who live in group homes or residences and to inmates, as well as to recognize professional leadership, effective interpretation of programs, pioneering activity and significant research or experimental projects. The recipient receives a citation. Download the award nomination form (PDF).

Cooperative, Consulting and State Library Services: The Leadership and Professional Achievement Award is a citation presented to one or more ASCLA members (personal or organizational) exemplifying leadership and achievement in the following areas: consulting, library cooperation, networking, statewide services and programs and state library development. Download the award nomination form (PDF).

Service to ASCLA: The Cathleen Bourdon Service Award is a citation presented to an ASCLA personal member for exceptional service and sustained leadership to the division. This includes participation in activities that have enhanced the stature, reputation and overall strength of ASCLA and have also cultivated the division’s relationship with other appropriate organizations, institutions or governmental agencies. Download the award nomination form (PDF).

Those interested in submitting a nomination may download the appropriate award nomination form(s) from the awards section of the ASCLA website or request the form(s) from Liz Markel, ASCLA marketing and programs manager, via e-mail at lmarkel@ala.org. Nominations for all awards must be received by Dec. 15, 2011. Submission information can be found on each nomination form.

Proposals for webinars: deadline extended to Nov. 21!

We got a lot of awesome submissions for 2012 webinars, but we know there are a few more of you out there who are interested, but perhaps didn’t have the time to send in a submission by the end of October. So, we’re extending the deadline to close of business on Monday, Nov. 21!

You can get the entire scoop on topics, timelines and the proposal process in this blog post: http://ascla.ala.org/blog/2011/10/2012-webinarproposals/

Or, go straight to the submission form: http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/ascla2012webinars

ASCLA Seeking Consultant for Online Learning Program: RFP

The Association of Specialized and Cooperative Library Agencies (ASCLA), a division of the American Library Association, seeks a consultant for soup-to-nuts development and launch of a comprehensive package of online learning opportunities hosted by ASCLA.

The desired outcome of the project is to develop the framework (including policies, procedures, and templates) to support a long term online continuing education program for ASCLA. The consultant will also advise ASCLA and the ASCLA Online Learning Committee in soliciting presenters and using the framework and templates to launch online offerings in 2012. The estimated project completion date is no later than April 1, 2012.

The consultant will work with the ASCLA staff and the ASCLA Online Learning Committee (AOLC) to develop the framework to support a long-term online continuing education program for ASCLA. The project includes conducting a needs assessment of ALA members’ online learning learning needs specifically pertaining to accessibility issues; developing a framework with procedures for ASCLA to solicit proposals for online learning events; working with the AOLC on a process to review and approve proposals, and identifying key partners and/or creating partnerships.

Applicants may submit their proposal in one of two ways:

  • By e-mail to ASCLA Executive Director Susan Hornung at shornung@ala.org with subject line “RFP/ASCLA” no later than 5:00 PM CT on Monday, October 31, 2011.
  • By mail—submit five complete copies no later than Monday, October 31, 2011, to American Library Association, ATTN: Susan Hornung/ASCLA RFP, 50 East Huron Street, Chicago, IL 60611

Proposals not received by the date and time specified may not be considered and will be returned to the sender marked “LATE RESPONSE.” Questions about the proposal should be directed to ASCLA Executive Director Susan Hornung at shornung@ala.org or (800) 545-2433, x4395.

Desired consultant attributes include but are not limited to successful project management experience; a proven track record with developing online educational events; strong organizational and problem-solving skills; and excellent communication skills, especially written. More information is available in the downloadable RFP.

ASCLA members establish “new” Library Consultant Interest Group

The Association of Specialized and Cooperative Library Agencies (ASCLA) welcomes the Library Consultant Interest Group to its list of active member interest groups.

ASCLA also invites independent librarians, library consultants, state library consultants of all types, regional library consultants and any librarians or library staff who help others learn and solve problems to join.

The Library Consultant Interest Group replaces the former Independent Librarians Exchange (ILEX) special interest section of ASCLA. Membership is open to all ALA members; ASCLA membership is required for those interested in leadership positions within the group. The group supports professional development by providing programs, information exchange and networking opportunities of interest to independent librarians, library consultants and others who want to push the boundaries of librarianship.

Several group activities are planned for 2012, including:

  • An open hearing and discussion at the ALA Midwinter Meeting in Dallas about a draft ASCLA Library Consultants Code of Ethics.
  • Two exciting 2012 ALA annual conference programs:
    • “Essential Facilitation: Practical Tools for Guiding Groups” with Interaction Associates, Inc.
    • “Consultants Give Back” where consultants can contribute an hour of free consulting to librarians seeking advice or seek consulting help from the consultants who volunteer their time.
  • Building a collection of helpful resources, tools and discussions for Library Consultant Interest Group members on ALA Connect.
  • Supporting ASCLA development of online learning opportunities re: topics of interest to library consultants (building on the success of ASCLA/ILEX consultant preconferences).

Join the group now by visiting the ASCLA Library Consultants Interest Group ALA Connect page and clicking on the “Join” button. ALA login is required in order to access the interest group page. Use this handy ALA Connect tip sheet (PDF) if you are having difficulty connecting. More information about all of ASCLA’s interest groups is available here. Interested in joining ASCLA? Learn more about member benefits and how to join at the ASCLA website.