Network Bulletin No: 09-29
Date: October 9, 2009
Subject: Conferences
Index term: 2009 network regional
conference reports, resolutions, and NLS responses
Representatives of libraries from four network regions met in two conferences. The North and South
regions met in Louisville, Kentucky, in May 2009, and the Midlands and West regions met in Springfield,
Illinois, in June 2009. Each conference elected new chairpersons for the 2009 2011 term as follows:
Toni Harrell, Kansas regional library, Emporia, Kansas Midlands
Venetia Demson, District of Columbia regional library, Washington, D.C. North
Ava Smith, Texas regional library, Austin, Texas South
Sue Walker, Idaho regional library, Boise, Idaho West
Meeting sites for the 2011 regional conferences are:
Louisville, Kentucky Midlands/South
Washington, D.C. North
Denver, Colorado West
Conference resolutions, along with NLS responses, from the two 2009 regional conference meetings
are attached.
Attachments
For more information contact:
Deborah Toomey
Head, Network Services Section
[log in to unmask]
____________________________________________________________________________________________
Resolutions and Responses
Librarians Serving BPH - Regional Conferences 2009
Midlands Conference
1. The Midlands Conference Members resolve to thank Sharon Ruda, the
staff of the Illinois State Library Talking Book and Braille Service,
Richard Smith, Sue Walker, and Christie Briggs as well as Anne Craig and
Secretary of State Jesse White for each of their efforts toward
planning, hosting and securing funding for an exceptional 2009
conference and pre-conference.
NLS Response: NLS concurs.
2. The Midlands Conference Members resolve to thank current, past and
future officers who do, have, and will serve as conference chair, vice
chair, treasurer and secretary. Their contribution is invaluable.
NLS Response: NLS concurs.
3. The Midlands Conference Members resolve to thank the NLS staff for
their ongoing work, for their openness, and for providing such
informative conference presentations.
NLS Response: You are welcome.
4. The Midlands Conference Members resolve to thank all conference
presenters for providing informative, enlightening, and frankly
entertaining presentations.
NLS Response: NLS concurs.
5. The Midlands Conference Members resolve to thank Keystone Automation
Systems for hosting a lovely reception, the Friends of Wolfner Library
for hosting refreshments for supplemental digital download
demonstrations, and the Hilton Springfield for excellent accommodations.
NLS Response: NLS concurs.
6. The Midlands Conference Members continue to strongly recommend that
Multistate Centers continue serving, as usual, as inter-library loan
providers, and that such provision extends to digital format. The
Multistate Centers should be provided with the means to maintain a substantial collection
of digital books in order to equitably meet the inter-library loan
needs of network libraries and their patrons in every
state.
NLS Response: Given the resources available for the transition this may not be possible.
However, NLS is taking the following steps: providing each multistate center with one copy of
every retrospective digital book (DB) title; ensuring that each network library will receive a
minimum of one copy of each new DB title through copy allotment, although many will choose
multiple copies of selected titles; and providing BARD to ensure access to the entire digital-book
collection (and audio magazines) for both libraries and the
eligible patrons who can use it.
7. The Midlands Conference Members strongly recommend that NLS consider
lifting copy allotment restrictions. Barring that, we strongly recommend
that NLS allow member libraries to reassign surplus portions of their
copy allotment to Multistate Centers and/or to libraries with an
identifiable need. We envision this as a proactive re-allocation of
numbers, rather than specific titles, offered between regionals and
their own subregionals, and between states.
NLS Response: For recorded cassette (RC) books, the quotas must remain, and in fact will be
more restrictive in 2010, the last year of RC production. This is necessary because more annual
funds will be used to produce digital books (DBs) on cartridges in 2010. As for DB titles, NLS
is easily able to move all or a portion of the copy allotment quota from one network library to
another (Multistate Centers are not included that allotment is set by NLS) if requested by the
library losing copies. However, this must be a total annual move of number of copies. It cannot
be by month or for individual titles.
8. The Midlands Conference Members recommend that rather than issuing the
planned recall of cartridges, NLS consider allowing libraries to
maintain suitable collections via the traditional XESS process. As an
alternative solution, we recommend that NLS consider redistributing
recalled cartridges to the multistate centers so that they may better
meet inter-library loan demands.
NLS Response: The XESS process for digital materials has not yet been established. NLS will
consider this request in formulating the new XESS procedures.
9. The Midlands Conference Members strongly recommend that in response to
pre-launch library input regarding patron feedback, NLS quickly increase
the production ratio of advanced digital players over standard players.
NLS Response: After years of research with patrons in the development of the digital talking-
book machines, NLS believes that the current ratio of advanced players to standard players will
meet the needs of patrons when the players are distributed. However, the ratio of advanced to
standard players may be changed if patron preferences prove otherwise.
10. The Midlands Conference Members recommend that NLS accommodate
recommendations made by the National Audio Equipment Advisory Committee,
as well as current BARD users, such as the patron's download history and
notifications about new books, as these proved to be appreciated and
expected customer service features during the pilot phase.
NLS Response: When BARD was in its pilot phase, downloads were limited to thirty titles in
thirty days per individual. When the limit was removed, NLS determined that maintaining an
online history of previous downloads in each customer's account was no longer necessary.
11. The Midlands Conference Members wish to express our deep appreciation
to the Western Conference for the collaborative relationship we enjoy,
which has consistently resulted in exceptional conferences and fostered
beneficial relationships. We look forward to continued collaboration in
the future. We also wish to thank the Southern Conference for their
invitation to partner in a joint conference in 2011. We look forward to
that partnership.
NLS Response: NLS concurs.
12. The Midlands Conference Members resolve to take this opportunity to
recognize and honor the contributions of Barry Levine. Mr. Levine was
committed to quality library service for all. He was in so many ways a
gracious hands-on library advocate at the local, state and national
levels. His affection and support for libraries and information access
was enormous. While his legacy and the benefit of his efforts will
continue long into the future, and the impact he made will be permanent,
his presence will be sorely missed.
NLS Response: NLS concurs.
Northern Conference
1. Thanks to the organizers of the conference
Whereas the 2009 Joint Southern and Northern Regional Conference has successfully brought
together colleagues for the purpose of information sharing and professional development and
improvements to our services, and whereas the efforts involved to plan and execute such a
gathering are considerable, time consuming, and costly,
Be it resolved that the Northern Conference recognizes and thanks Barbara Penegor of the
Kentucky Talking book Library and her staff for hosting this conference.
Be it further resolved that we thank John Barrett, Chair of the Northern Conference, Jill Lewis
and the staff of the Maryland State Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped, Jerry
Reynolds, Southern Conference Chair, the Friends of the Maryland State Library for the Blind
and Physically Handicapped; and Keystone Library Automation Systems for their efforts
contributing to the success of this conference.
NLS Response: NLS concurs.
2. Thanks to the National Library Service
Whereas the road to move Talking Book service to a digital format has been long and hard and
whereas digital services promise to deliver a superior experience for our readers:
Be it resolved that the Northern Conference thanks Kurt Cylke and staff of the National
Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped for the development of the new
formatand the distribution of Digital Talking Books and Talking Book players.
NLS Response: Thank you.
3. Request for BARD Statistics
Whereas statistics that measure the use of library service are our life's blood when demonstrating
to our funders the need for their support, and whereas any inaccurately low count of the use of
service threatens our ongoing ability to serve,
Be it resolved that the northern conference urgently petitions the National Library Service for the
Blind and Physically Handicapped to work cooperatively with any vendor of library automation
software serving Network Libraries to enable those automation systems to directly incorporate
data reflecting patron and library downloads from BARD, specifically the number of items
downloaded and the specific records to add to a patron's Has Had file.
NLS Response: NLS has worked with network library-automation system vendors and will
continue to do so.
Southern Conference
1. Whereas the Southern Conference of Librarians serving the Blind and Physically
Handicapped supports NLS for the transition of Talking Book Topics to Talking Book Topics
Plus and;
Whereas the Southern Conference commends NLS for the providing patrons with variety of
access points to books and magazines;
Be it therefore resolved that the Southern Conference encourage NLS to provide access to TBT
Plus through all access points including BARD.
NLS Response: Thank you for your recommendation. Talking Book Topics has been made
available on BARD beginning with the May June 2009 issue. Digital Talking Books Plus, like
Cassette Books, will be a part of the collection and thus also be available on BARD.
2. Whereas the Southern Conference of Librarians serving the Blind and Physically Handicapped
recognizes the wealth of information in locally produced magazines and;
Whereas the Southern Conference acknowledges the time and talent of volunteers who record
locally produced magazines and;
Whereas the Southern Conference recognizes that locally produced magazines could be of
interest to patrons nationwide;
Be it therefore resolved that the Southern Conference encourages NLS to make locally produced
magazines available to patrons through the digital download.
NLS Response: The Multistate Center Quality Assurance Program and NLS are working with
local production studios to achieve this goal.
3. Whereas the Southern Conference of Librarians serving the Blind and Physically Handicapped
recognizes the importance of information found in the MARC format;
Be it therefore resolved that the Southern Conference applauds NLS for making the full MARC
record available to network libraries and patrons.
NLS Response: Thank you.
4. Whereas the Southern Conference of Librarians serving the Blind and Physically Handicapped
recognizes the Multistate Centers for their value as a resource for permanent or interlibrary loan
copies of talking books and magazines;
Be it therefore resolved that the members of the Southern Conference recommends that NLS
continue to provide network libraries access to talking books and magazines in all formats
through the Multistate Centers.
NLS Response: Given the resources available for the transition, this may not be possible.
However NLS is taking the following steps: providing each multistate center with one copy of
every retrospective digital book title; ensuring that each network library will receive a minimum
of one copy of each new DB title through copy allotment, although many will choose multiple
copies of selected titles; and providing BARD to ensure access to the entire digital-book
collection (and audio magazines) for both libraries and the eligible patrons who can use it.
5. Whereas the Southern Conference of Librarians serving the Blind and Physically Handicapped
recognizes past initiatives by NLS to promote the talking and book programs nationwide and;
Whereas network libraries have benefitted from these past initiatives and;
Whereas during these initiatives have included public service announcements to radio, television
and newspapers and;
Whereas during these initiatives NLS have provided promotional items to network libraries and;
Whereas the NLS promotions has greatly supplemented the public awareness programs of the
network libraries;
Be it therefore resolved that the Southern Conference recommends that NLS increase its
outreach initiatives.
NLS Response: Thank you for your recommendation. NLS plans to continue to support
network outreach activities, as much as funding allows.
6. Whereas the Southern Conference of Librarians serving the Blind and Physically Handicapped
recognizes the importance of making all digital books accessible to all patrons and;
Whereas NLS has made the retrospective digital collection accessible to network libraries and
patrons in the digital cartridge format and;
Whereas NLS staff, especially Bob Axtell and the staff of the Bibliographic Control Section,
provided expertise and time dedicated to preparing the collection for inclusion in the
retrospective copy allotment;
Be it therefore resolved that the Southern Conference applauds NLS and especially the
Bibliographic Control Section for providing the retrospective copy allotment selection available
to network libraries.
NLS Response: Thank you.
7. Whereas the Southern Conference of Librarians serving the Blind and Physically Handicapped
recognizes the importance of training material for network libraries staff and;
Whereas the Southern Conference recognizes the time and talent required to provide usable
training materials and;
Whereas the Southern Conference acknowledges the need for training material related to all
aspects of the digital transition and;
Whereas the Southern Conference recognizes the contribution of all NLS staff to the
development of the training material;
Be it therefore resolved that the Southern Conference expresses its appreciation to the NLS staff,
especially the Network Services Section, for the development of the digital training material.
NLS Response: Thank you.
8. Whereas the Southern Conference of Librarians serving the Blind and Physically Handicapped
has benefitted from the knowledge and experience of Jerry Reynolds, and;
Whereas Jerry has served as Chairperson of the Southern Conference in 2008 - 2009, and;
Whereas Jerry has generously given of his time for the betterment of the Southern Conference,
Be it therefore resolved that the members of the Southern Conference acknowledge and thank
Jerry for his outstanding leadership.
NLS Response: NLS concurs.
9. Whereas the Braille and Audio Reading Download, BARD, has been so successfully
implemented and;
Whereas patrons from all regional and subregional libraries have benefitted from BARD and;
Whereas the National Library Service has successfully implemented, improved and
maintained BARD and;
Whereas Neil Bernstein, Research and Development Officer, and Michael Martys, Automation
Officer, have played major roles in the implementation, improvements and maintenance of
BARD;
Be it therefore resolved that the members of the Southern Conference of Librarians Serving the
Blind and Physically Handicapped express their deep appreciation to the staff of NLS for the
successful implementation, maintenance and support of the BARD program.
NLS Response: Thank you.
10. Whereas the Southern Conference of Librarians serving the Blind and Physically Handicapped
acknowledges the contributions of Charles Stubblefield for service to Northwest Georgia
Talking Book Subregional Library and the Georgia Library for Accessible Statewide Services,
GLASS and;
Whereas Charles has made significant contributions to the service to patrons of the Northwest
Georgia Talking Book Subregional Library and;
Whereas Charles has made significant contributions to the service to patrons of the GLASS;
Be it therefore resolved that the Southern Conference expresses its appreciation to Charles for 13
years of services to NLS, GLASS and the Northwest Georgia Talking Book Subregional
Library.
NLS Response: NLS concurs.
11. Whereas the Southern Conference of Librarians serving the Blind and Physically Handicapped
recognizes the importance of attendance at conferences by NLS and network libraries and;
Whereas the Southern Conference recognizes the efforts NLS has made to attend appropriate
conferences and; Whereas members of the Southern Conference offer their services to staff booths at national
conferences;
Be it therefore resolved that the Southern Conference recommends that NLS make every effort
to take advantage of opportunities to have a presence at national conferences, such as American
Library Association, Council on Aging, Blinded American Veterans, National Federation of the
Blind, American Council of the Blind and other appropriate associations.
NLS Response: Traditionally NLS has maintained a national exhibit schedule, attending an
average of twenty conferences per year (as funding permits). Constituency
conference American Council for the Blind, Blinded Veterans Association, and the National
Federation of the Blind are priorities and NLS has not failed to have a booth at these venues.
Other priority conferences include AARP, American Legion, and the Association for Education
and Rehabilitation of the Blind and Visually Impaired. In addition, NLS annually attends both
the American Library Association Midwinter and Annual Conferences as part of the Library of
Congress pavilion. National conferences that do not have priority status are attended on a
rotating basis. We typically provide opportunities for network libraries to assist us with staffing
booths when in their areas. We also encourage network libraries to have a presence at state,
local, and regional conferences.
12. Whereas the Southern Conference of Librarians serving the Blind and Physically Handicapped
recognizes the accomplishments of NLS for the transition to a digital format and;
Whereas the Southern Conference recognizes the financial commitment that NLS has made to
the transition and;
Whereas the Southern Conference recognizes the continued demand on limited human and
financial resources of the transition and;
Whereas network libraries are excited to provide digital talking books to patrons;
Be it therefore resolved that the members of the Southern Conference encourage NLS to
investigate options to increase the number of DBs available to network libraries through copy
allotment.
NLS Response: Please refer to Network Bulletin 09-05, Plans for production of audiobooks
(http://www.loc.gov/nls/networkdocs/bulletins/2009/05.html). In the attachment to this bulletin,
NLS indicated the planned total number of copies on digital book cartridge (DB) each year. The
"full production" average number of copies nationwide that NLS produced in cassette (RC)
format resulted in 925 copies. With the present price of flash memory, NLS will not be able to
reach this level of production until 2012. However, in 2010 we hope to be able to reach an
average of 700 copies per title, and this will allow up to 33 percent more DB copies than in
2009.
13. Whereas the Southern Conference of Librarians serving the Blind and Physically Handicapped
acknowledges the contributions of Deenie Culver for service to the Anniston Alabama
Subregional Library and;
Whereas Deenie has made significant contributions in service to patrons of the Anniston
Subregional Library and Alabama;
Be it therefore resolved that the Southern Conference expresses its appreciation to Deenie for 38
years of service to NLS, the Anniston Subregional Library and the patrons of Alabama and for
serving as secretary of the Southern Conference for many years.
NLS Response: NLS concurs.
14. Whereas the Southern Conference of Librarians Serving the Blind and Physically Handicapped
anticipates a high demand for the digital books and;
Whereas the Southern Conference recognizes the need for specialized duplication equipment
and;
Whereas the Southern Conference commends NLS' efforts to provide the network libraries with
basic duplication equipment;
Be it therefore resolved that the Southern Conference requests that NLS provide expanded
duplication equipment adequate to meet the need of network libraries based on circulation.
NLS Response: As with the cassette program, NLS will provide specialized materials for local
talking-book production that are not commercially available. This includes print and braille
label stock, software for labeling and protection, and specialized fixtures to adapt talking-book
cartridges to commercial USB flash drive duplicating equipment. In this cooperative venture,
libraries interested in duplication for locally produced material or to augment the book copies
from NLS will purchase the media and commercial flash drive duplicators using local library
funds.
15. Whereas the Southern Conference of Librarians serving the Blind and Physically Handicapped
held its biennial conference in Louisville, Kentucky May 5 -7, 2009 and;
Whereas Barbara Penegor and the staff of the Kentucky Braille and Talking Book Library
provided outstanding accommodations, activities, and entertainment and;
Whereas the contributions of Barbara and all the staff made the biennial meeting of the Southern
Conference so successful
Be it therefore resolved that the members of the Southern Conference express their deep
Appreciation for the their contributions of time and talent to make this conference successful.
NLS Response: NLS concurs.
16. Whereas the Southern Conference of Librarians Serving the Blind and Physically Handicapped
acknowledges the contributions of Kay Briley for service to Brevard Talking Book Subregional
Library and; Whereas Kay has made significant contributions in service to patrons of the Brevard Library
and;
Be it therefore resolved that the Southern Conference expresses its appreciation to Kay for 18
years of services to NLS Brevard County Library and the patrons of Brevard County.
NLS Response: NLS concurs.
Western Conference
1. Members of the Western Conference thank the staff of the Illinois State Library for their hard
work and gracious hospitality in hosting a successful and highly informative Midlands/Western
join biennial conference.
NLS Response: NLS concurs.
2. Members of the Western Conference request the National Library Service (NLS) reconsider
loading network library-supplied storage devices of adequate capacity with all digital book titles
(DBs) available at the time of receipt. Network libraries will pay to ship their storage devices to
and from NLS and will be responsible for adding future DB titles to their own devices.
NLS Response: NLS understands the interest that network libraries have in attaining the
complete collection of available digital books. However, at this point in time, this is not an
option. In addition, the entire DB collection is available for download on BARD.
3. Members of the Western Conference reaffirm the importance of the Multistate Centers in the
resources they pr ovide to Network libraries, including interlibrary
loan in the digital age.
NLS Response: Given the resources available for the transition this may not be possible.
However, NLS is taking the following steps: providing each multistate center with one copy of
every retrospective digital book title; ensuring that each network library will receive a minimum
of one copy of each new DB title through copy allotment, although many will choose multiple
copies of selected titles; and providing BARD to ensure access to the entire digital-book
collection (and audio magazines) for both libraries and the
eligible patrons who can use it.
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