Ushering in a New Era of Library Data: Measures that Matter
By Jen Nelson Director and State Librarian, Minnesota Department of Education, State Library Services Every year more than 9,000 public libraries including over 17,000 public library outlets in the United States file an annual report with the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). Collectively, these 1,666,000 pieces of data tell a story...
Special Issue: State Agencies
In this issue of Interface we are highlighting some of the great work done by our state library partners! Karen Balsen from the New York State Library shares how they are partnering with local libraries to improve early literacy skills. Ryanne Cooper, from the New Mexico State Library, gives us an update on the New...
Ready to Read at New York Libraries: Positioning Public Libraries as Early Learning Hubs in Local Communities
by Karen Balsen Families in communities large and small across New York State face a multitude of challenges in preparing their children to succeed in the school years ahead. Public libraries are already serving many of these families. However, to truly serve as centers for early learning, public libraries need staff with the skills, expertise...
Tribal Libraries Program at the New Mexico State Library
By: Ryanne Cooper The New Mexico State Library serves and supports 18 tribal libraries in New Mexico through its Tribal Libraries Program (TLP). For almost 20 years, the TLP has been providing continuing educational opportunities, funding, leadership, and consulting services to library directors and staff that serve the indigenous Pueblo & Apache tribes of...
State Library Agencies: Serving the Public in Many Ways
by Eugene Hainer, Colorado State Library There is an old adage about State Library agencies; if you’ve seen one, then you’ve seen one. The reason for this is that states have many ways of organizing and providing the services under the broad umbrella term of “State Library” and variations thereof. No two are truly alike....