Woman’s Day magazine and ALA recently announced the winners of a contest that asked participants to write about how they started businesses with help from their local library. It’s a neat contest idea, and one that I think could be easily duplicated on the local level. We’re looking for ways to show the economic impact of libraries, and what better way to do that with stories from your own community about how your library has assisted in creating a thriving, revenue-generating business. This comes at an interesting time because the State Library is in the early phase of a new partnership with South Carolina Business OneStop and the SC Department of Commerce. (In the coming months, we plan to provide you with more information, but for now, you’ll have to settle for the “tease.”)
Have you talked to the small business owners in your communities to find out what your library could do for them? Are you in contact with your local Chambers of Commerce? How about local office of non-profits that advocate for business, like the SC Women’s Business Center or the Small Business Development Center?
Helen Oram, of Book Sale Finder, one of the contest winners, sent me her own press release. Here’s what she says about how libraries have shaped her life:
“I’m proud to be recognized by Woman’s Day and ALA,” said Ms. Oram. “I have depended upon libraries all my life: as a child, as an adult, as a mother, and as a business owner. I hope this helps motivate others to use the unparalleled resources of their local libraries, and I especially hope that they will attend used book sales. Our motto is: Good Books at Good Prices for a Good Cause - Everybody Wins!”
The sight of teenaged boys clustered around a game console or computer monitor, controllers in hand and eyes fixed on the screen, is now a familiar one in many libraries. But wait…are those players really boys? Or even teenagers? Or…are there a few gray heads in the mix?
In fact, the increase in older people buying and enjoying electronic games is a phenomenon attracting attention, and librarians should take note. Much of the new action is due to the popularity of the Nintendo Wii, a more senior-friendly game platform than its higher-tech competitors. According to a recent N.Y. Times article, the growth now in the gaming market is in “simple, user-friendly experiences that families and friends can enjoy together.”
And also, apparently, retirees: The Wii is becoming a staple component of group exercise equipment at senior living facilities around South Carolina. People who are comfortable using a TV remote controller find the transition to the Wii very natural. And the fitness potential? Fantastic, compared to TV watching.
We haven’t actually heard of game programs being offered for seniors in libraries in our state…yet! But, as the graying of library patrons increases over the coming decade, we think more senior friendly activities should be offered in libraries. Who’s game?
Here are some great places to start looking - and most are free (or very cheap):
-This is a great list put together by Marianne Lenox.
-This is a VERY comprehensive list put together by Stephanie Gerding - This is a must. You are bound to find what you are looking for here.
-I have been keeping a list of resources for training, professional conferences and anything related to South Carolina Library related information.
-Click on the top tab named “TechTrax” and you will find links to web 2.0 tutorials and more.
-You can either check this out on our homepage (http://www.statelibrary.sc.gov/home/) or click the link above. You can also subscribe via RSS feed from our homepage.
