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COMMUNICATION & COUNSEL
Subject: Monthly Report
Prepared by: Barbara Clubb, City Librarian
Prepared for: Ottawa Public Library Board
Meeting of: September 13, 2010
Date: August 31, 2010
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OPL Mission Statement: Building a strong Ottawa community by supporting literacy and life-long learning, fostering inspiration and enjoyment and connecting people to each other and the world. (See Appendix A for Goals and Objectives) |
1. Goal A: Provide Responsive Services
Beaverbrook Branch: From Pat Skarzynski, Supervising Librarian at Beaverbrook Branch regarding a local history program for Chinese seniors: “Congratulations Wen Jean on another successful, "standing room only" program with your seniors social club yesterday. They were such and attentive, and gracious audience. They seemed to really enjoy Elinor's presentation on the rich history of Kanata and the interesting stories behind some of the art and memorabilia in the Kanata Room. What a special moment it was when she shared the story of her Father's involvement in the establishment of Bethune House in Gravenhurst. I was happy to hear that they had a lot of questions for Elinor as well -- she is so knowledgeable and willing to share her knowledge and experiences.”
The following comment was received from a patron about the Kanata Room at Beaverbrook:
“The lady who has put together a special collection on the history o Kanata and March Township has done a wonderful job. I have used it extensively in researching both Pinhey’s Point and also Glen Cairn. If only more OPL branches had such resources!”
As you will recall the lady he is referring to is Elinor Montgomery, the volunteer that was awarded the Ottawa Public Library Order of Friendship award in April 2009.
Bookmobile: A friend of mine just told me that on the weekend she took her 2 ½ year old son to “Touch A Truck”. As they wondered around checking out a variety of impressive vehicles her son kept saying “Can’t we please just go back to the Bookmobile!” – which apparently is where they spent most of the afternoon… reading books. This of course made me smile so I’m passing it along!
Another comment received regarding the Bookmobile: “My niece, who's 7, was having difficulty learning to read. Getting her own library card and going to the bookmobile has helped her more than you might imagine. Now we look forward to going to the Bookmobile together after school and reading all the books. Thank you for your service.”
Carlingwood Branch: From a Carlingwood patron: “I would to express my most sincere thanks to you for the excellent help which I receive here @ the Carlingwood Branch of the OPL. Under the direction of Ann, I receive regular help with problems which I run into when using the computer, and searching for particular books. Three years ago I had no skills with the computer. ( I`ll be 80 in October ). After a short introductory course, I now have my own computer @ home for practice. I do not have internet @ home, but have the stick, and bring it to the library, to send out. Linda this afternoon was most helpful to me in researching something about the Canadian Painter J. Wilson Morrice. The display books which Paula put up for special occasions are great (e.g. Canada Day) Paul is especially competent when the computer problems are difficult. All staff members are always courteous. Thanks again”
Cumberland Branch: An appreciative Cumberland patron writes:”Thank you very much for the books on kindness. I’m an award winning humanitarian so I always enjoy researching how I can be a better person and lead a life with a positive impact.”
Collection Management: A selector in Collection Management received the following:”As a long time supporter of our public library system, I remain impressed with how in touch you are with the public you serve. Thank you for listening.”
Goulbourn-Rideau Area: “Last week, Sharon Robb and I made a very enjoyable visit to the five libraries in the Goulbourn-Rideau area. We met such friendly, helpful people. No wonder our libraries are so busy! We were struck by how bright and welcoming each library was and it was nice to hear that the work of our FOPLA volunteers is appreciated. We welcome your suggestions and of course your contributions of books to A Good Read. We collected $81.87 from the donation boxes. Every little bit helps. Thank you and we will stop in again in a few months.”
Gerry Watkins (Co-Manager) FOPLA Bookstore
FOPLA Local Committee Representative Goulbourn-Rideau
Greenboro Branch: A special needs teacher from the Clifford Bowie School sent the following note to thank Laurie Woollard (Supervising Librarian, Greenboro Branch) for delivering a great program: “You did a terrific job with our students and we really enjoyed coming to see you and participating as best we can.”
A supervising librarian at the Greenboro Branch also received positive comments about the powerwall displays at that branch. The patron complimented the staff who prepared the powerwall in the adult section on the first floor, which featured a mix of poetry books and biographies about the poets. In particular, she enjoyed reading the e.e. cumming’s poems and then a biography about the poet. She would like to see more of these types of connections in the displays.
Brigitte Baginski (Circulation Assistant), with the help of the Information Desk teams at the Greenboro District Library, helped a patron to find what they were looking for and received the following note of thanks: “Brigitte B. was kind enough to take the time to locate a book that was not on the shelf, but showed in the system. She not only found it for me – but did it with a smile! Now that’s great service and the reason I drive 40 minutes to visit this branch.”
Hazeldean Branch:
Photo taken by Mara Zarins
Hazeldean Children’s Librarian, Annie Miller, with eager SRC readers; parent/caregiver Mara commented: “My kids really liked her… and we spent a lot of time in the library today trying to please her and reading more books!” (Permission received to use photo by mother Mara Zarins)
Homebound Services: From the wife of a homebound client: “We very much appreciate your excellent choice of DVDs and CDs for Maurice, Bernie. Though his severe disablement means he needs someone to work the TV/DVD combination, your well chosen titles help pass the tedious nursing home hours.”
Main Branch: From a letter to Michael Murphy, Coordinator, Adult & Information Services:
‘Dear Michael, I would like to extend our deepest thanks on behalf of ALSO’s Board and staff for supporting this year’s Amazing Book Race. Your ongoing time and energy are key to making the Amazing Book Race a success. We are very grateful for your efforts to organize volunteers at the participating library branches, your help in promoting the race to library patrons and your time spent as part of the race committee.” Kevin Scully, President, ALSO Board of Directors
Another comment received regarding Gilbert Dubois, PSA, Adult & Information Services:
“Dear Head librarian, your Mr. Gilbert Dubois went far beyond the call of duty to give back a period of my life that we lost the 1967 Grey Cup ceremonies and some which I took a very large part in. I am 74 years of age and these pictures were lost in storage. No words can explain how important it was to me and a number of Grey Cup committee guys. “
Brian Silcoff, Librarian, Adult & Information Services received the following: “As I said on the phone, I want to thank you very much for your assistance with finding historical images of Ottawa and searching the Ottawa Citizen archive through new Google features.
You have given me access to a remarkable resource that fits my needs very closely and I appreciate your time as well as your expertise in showing me how it works. Please pass this note on to your supervisors to let them know how happy I was with the service you provided. Thanks. “
Nepean-Centrepointe Branch: From a Multicultural Liaison officer from the School Board to staff at Nepean Centrepointe after a tour: “I just wanted to thank you for your help at the library. Everything went great. Students loved the experience and all of them went home with their library cards. They even went home with books!! Thanks a lot and please thank Flora and the other ladies on our behalf.”
North Gloucester Branch: A member of the knitting group at the North Gloucester branch sent in the following appreciative comments about the team at that location:“Whilst talking to two people in my knitting group at N.G., they mentioned that the staff at this library are the nicest and most helpful of all the libraries they use, and I am in total agreement with them.”
Orléans Branch: The following note and donation was received for the Orléans Branch:
“Dear Sir or Madam,
Please note that the enclosed donation of $50.00 is being made in honour of Sylvie Perfetti, an employee at the Orleans Branch of the Ottawa Public Library. Since September 2009, my daughters and I have been attending the Preschool Storytime run by Sylvie. Unfortunately, we will not be able to continue to participate in this program, as I will be returning to work in August. We have really enjoyed our time with Sylvie. The programs were educational and fun. Sylvie's enthusiasm is contagious. Her interest in each child and patience with a room full of excited children is inspiring. If possible, we would like for this donation to be used towards materials required for the children's programs at the Orleans Branch.”
Osgoode Branch: Received through Library Feedback from an Osgoode grandmother.
“I have attended the Osgoode branch with my grandkids for the last 6 years. As a retired teacher I feel that reading should be started in the womb! Over these years Sherri Ryan has been the main children’s contact here. She is AMAZING. Wow! She has stories, crafts and puzzles for very young kids every Mon. She has a theme each week for the children to experience that is carried throughout the session. She has rearranged the furniture to entice kids to pick up a book and read. She is a great asset to this program. I hope the programs will be able to continue.”
Rideau Branch: A Rideau patron appreciated the staff recommendations: “Yay! Love your staff picks! Feel like I am at the LCBO – only better! Thank you!”
Rockcliffe Park Branch: A happy client of the Rockcliffe Park branch commented about Swuzie Sanon’s (Public Service Assistant, Rockcliffe Park Branch) assistance by saying that:“Swuzie is extremely professional, friendly, and incredibly helpful. She is wonderful”
Ruth E. Dickinson Branch: A staff member from St. Elizabeth Ann Seton School in Barrhaven sent the following thank you note to Amanda Spargo (Children’s Programs & Public Service Assistant, Ruth E. Dickinson Branch):“Thank you so much for spending the day with us on Tuesday and sharing with all our students and teachers your knowledge of great children’s books, and your story telling talents. I received such positive comments and hope you will be able to visit again next year. I think it is very valuable to have the public library reach out to our schools, and I imagine we were both pleased to see how many of our students are library card holders.”
Marilyn Shanks (Coordinator, Ruth E. Dickinson Branch) received the following note of thanks: “Dear Marilyn, thank you for having participated in the John McCrae Secondary School co-operative education program by taking on the role of “mentor” for our co-op students. Your willingness to provide a training station for our students and to share your expertise has greatly enhanced their practical education.”
Kristal Craig (Children’s Program & Public Service Assistant, Ruth E. Dickinson Branch) received the following compliments from library clients: “Kristal is the most helpful person. On many occasions when we have come to this library, she has gone out of her way to help us. She is a very polite person and she is always willing to help and provide information.
and…
“I wanted to say what a great time my children had at “The Teddy Bear Sleepover” with Kristal. She did a great job and we’d definitely do another program another time! Thanks.”
Sunnyside Branch: Helene Merritt, Supervising Librarian received this feedback about her Mother-Daughter Reading Group at Sunnyside (Sunnyside staff continued to run this program at Southminster United Church while the branch was closed): “The mother-daughter book group has been great for my daughter and me. She's come out of her shell and had her confidence boosted in ways that school doesn't always do for her. (In fact, talking afterward last night she was worried that she interrupts people now. I told her that she comes by it honestly: her mother does the same, unfortunately. We'll both try to listen as much as we talk next year!)”
2. Goal B: Develop Partnerships for Accessible and Efficient Service
Library Settlement Partners Program: June was a very busy programming month for OPL’s settlement services. In addition to the usual conversation circles, homework help, etc, there were several large events. Newcomer seniors celebrated Senior’s Month on June 16 at the Main Library with African drummers, introduction to the history of Ottawa, Thai dancers, Chinese orchestra, armchair exercises and more. There were over 225 seniors and volunteers in attendance. The seniors took advantage of being able to ride free on OC Transpo on Wednesday’s. On June 26, Multicultural Day was highlighted at the Alta Vista Branch with a variety of performances including multilingual storytelling, Somali dancers, poetry, Chinese orchestra and much more. More than 225 people attended. North Gloucester Branch also celebrated Multicultural Day. Greenboro District Library hosted a similar event on July 5.
The settlement staff also participated in the City’s Multiculturalism Recognition Day on June 28 and the Community Cup at Brewer Park on June 27. In addition to leading the planning teams for the major multicultural events detailed above, Tabitha Waithaka, OPL’s Outreach Librarian for settlement services visited a number of programs and community centres from May through July. These include the Ottawa Carleton District School Board site on Albert Street, McNeil Court (Kanata), Bridlewood, Walter Baker Centre, York Street Public School, Ottawa Chinese Community Service Centre LINC classes, Citizenship Celebration and Trade Show at Mother Teresa High School, English Language Tutoring for Ottawa Community (ELTOC), and LASI World Skills Job Search Program. Tabitha also met with the Executive Director of the E.A.G.L.E. Centre about starting homework clubs for newcomers in some of the OPL branches. Frontier College runs the groups at the Main Library. E.A.G.L.E has agreed to help homework groups at St. Laurent, Orleans, Elmvale Acres, Greenboro, Alta Vista and Ruth E. Dickinson Branches this fall, depending on the capacity of their volunteers.
In his speech at the Ottawa Chinese Community Service Centre annual general meeting on June 12, Paul Dewar recognized the OPL as an important community resource for new immigrants.
As part of the Institute for Canadian Citizenship ceremony, Marcia Aronson acted as a round table moderator leading a discussion with new citizens and their families on what it means to be a Canadian citizen. From Jim Gervais, Co-chair Ottawa Citizenship Committee: “Ten of you participated in the recent ceremony at Library and Archives Canada. The round tables were a great success and I would like to thank you for your active participation and for the comments sent to me. They will be useful in preparing the final report.”
311 CSB Knowledge Database: The OPL’s Adult and Information Department are participating in the pilot project of the city’s new 311 CSB Knowledge Database rollout to Councilors and their staff. The 311 Knowledge Base is a compendium of call handling protocols and procedures that 311 agents utilize when assisting clients with specific requests. The pilot project ends mid-September 2010.
3. Goal C: Develop our Places and Spaces
Sunnyside Branch: The branch re-opened on Monday August 16 at 10 a.m. after eight months of renovations. People were lined up at the front door, and by the end of the day, more than 1600 had visited the branch. The official opening was held on Aug. 26. The MC was Vice Chair Pam Sweet, and guests included MPP Yasser Naqvi, Councillor Clive Doucet, and MP Paul Dewar, as well as a number of candidates running for Council in the upcoming municipal elections. Other Board members in attendance included Vicki Metcalfe and Jim Bennett.
The community celebration, sponsored by FOPLA and the Ottawa Folklore Centre, was held on Saturday August 28. It featured an Aesop's Fables Puppet Show, the Celtic Rathskallions musical performance, and balloon animals by Little John the Clown, inaugurating the new program space. Attendance far surpassed the numbers that could have been accommodated in the previous space.
Public response to the building has been very positive. The children’s area, with its new early literacy space, featuring interactive panels, a magnet play board and an alphabet table was a particular highlight.
Special mention should be made of the two paintings commissioned and donated by the Friends of the Sunnyside Library. Both are by local artists. Bhat Boy’s Jolly Old Ottawa South hangs over the main floor Information Desk, and Crystal Beshara’s young girl reading is in a similar spot in the children’s area. There are also a number of works provided by the city’s public art program.
The renovations were funded by ISAP (Federal/Provincial/Municipal) grant of $1.275 million. Funding for furnishings was supplemented by generous donations from FOPLA ($25,0000), and Friends of the Sunnyside Library ($12,000).
A full slate of programs for children, adults and teens is planned for the fall season to take advantage of the new dedicated program space.
Bronzes: The first of five bronze reading sculptures has been installed at the Carp Branch. This funded with Diefenbooker funds and is in memory of Doug McNab.
4. Goal D: Build a New Central Library
Staffing Announcement: Craig Ginther was appointed Manager, Innovation and Continuous Improvement effective July 5, 2010. Craig will lead the planning, development and implementation of continuous improvement programs and innovative service initiatives, business process and other reviews for OPL as well as support the New Central Library project. Craig joined OPL in 2003 and has held positions in Digital Services as Integrated Systems Librarian, Acting Manager, and Coordinator. Craig reports to Elaine Condos, Division Manager, System-Wide Services and Innovation.
5. Goal E: Be an Accountable and Innovative Organization
United Way Campaign: OPL is preparing for the 2010 Campaign which will run from September 23rd – December2nd. The City of Ottawa’s theme and donation goal will be officially announced at the September 8th Council Launch at which OPL Main Branch has been selected as a site to view the launch in real time. This will be a great opportunity for employees to engage in the start of the campaign and connect with one another. Last year OPL surpassed its goal and raised $37,207. This year we hope to do the same.
The Ottawa International Centre for Projects and Exchanges of the Ottawa Carleton District School Board: contacted the Children and Teen Services at Main to enquire about a literacy workshop for teachers visiting from Seoul. Last year we had given a half-day workshop to teachers from Spain. Sarah Campbell (Children’s program and public services assistant) invited them to attend a Summer Reading Club Family Story Time and then get an overview of children's services at Main. The teachers were very interested in OPL’s Story Time Manual both for its suggested program formats and the resources, they were intrigued with OPL’s approach to early literacy through the Every Child Ready to Read principles and enjoy the practical examples. The teachers left just before noon very excited to visit the Friends of the Ottawa Public Library shop! Many very smiley group pictures were taken with Sarah and various jungle beasts!
General Staff Meeting and Employee Recognition: The annual General Staff Meeting for all employees was held on June 18, 2010 at Lansdowne Park. More than 400 employees attended the half-day event intended to bring together employees from across our branches, promote networking between employees, and celebrate OPL achievements over the past year. Jan Harder brought greetings from the Board, and the keynote speaker, Steve Kanellakos, Deputy City Manager of City Operations, shared his vision of Service Excellence. Long-service pins, and peer recognition and achievement awards were presented to a number of employees. The morning finished with a video of employees singing “I Love the OPL,” a song written by employees for the event, which is now available on YouTube. Copies of the presentations, as well as the song, are available on Ozone for all employees to access. Feedback was positive and plans are underway for next year’s meeting.
New Managers: Since the last board meeting four new managers have joined OPL. These moves finalize our new management structure put into place in January 2010. Craig Ginther (formerly coordinator for Virtual Services) is the new manager for Innovation and Continuous Improvement; Anna Mould is the new manager for Staff Development and Service Excellence; Matt Pritz is the new manager for Business Services and Maureen McEvoy is the new manager for Communications and Community Relations. Anna, Maureen and Matthew are external hires; all bring fresh ideas to OPL. All four new managers have been busy learning their new portfolios, meeting staff and touring branches including Rideau, Alta Vista, Munster, North Gower, Richmond and Stittsville with the City Librarian. Welcome all.
IFLA: with approximately 50 other Canadians I attended the IFLA World Library and Information Conference in Sweden (Malmö and Gothenburg). There were approximately 3500 delegates from more than 100 countries. Scandinavia has some of the most beautiful and progressive public libraries in the world and there was plenty to see and learn about facilities and services. All public libraries in Sweden, from the largest to the smallest, have implemented RFID technology (radio frequency identification tagging) which supports greater efficiencies and improved customer service. Many libraries in Denmark and increasingly Sweden (particularly in smaller communities) are providing extended hours of service with no staff on site for the additional hours. This can only be accomplished with the implementation of very sophisticated technology which includes finger print identification for access. The Delegates were saddened by the untimely death (on-site) of the Executive Director of the British Library Association, Bob McKee, a beloved and well respected library champion around the world. Trustees continue to pour in.
6. Friends of the Ottawa Public Library Association
Annual General Meeting: The AGM provides members with the opportunity to meet the Board of Directors, learn about FOPLA’s activities, exercise voting rights, receive recognition for outstanding volunteer service, and hear from special speakers. Each year, our FOPLA volunteers contribute an incredible amount of time and effort to improve their library and community. At the AGM a number of volunteers were awarded for their commitment and enthusiasm. Awards were given for Friends of the Year and for Long Service. This year’s Friends of the Year awardees were: Rhoda Diebel (Cumberland-Orléans), Valletta Hudson (Goulbourn-Rideau), Richard Bellaire (Greenboro), Jean Baenziger (Nepean), and Art Read (Ottawa). As always, we are incredibly grateful to all of our volunteers for their time. They are among the many people who make FOPLA’s success possible.
AGM attendees also heard from special guest, John Reid, member of the Ontario Genealogical Society. He entertained the group with a story about Ezekiel Stone Wiggins, who according to Mr. Reid was “a literate, egotistical, self promoting eccentric.” Mr. Reid discovered Wiggins’ comical history in the Ottawa Room of the Main Library and he encouraged all library patrons to support the digitalization of Ottawa Room materials so others could uncover hidden treasures.
FOPLA Board and Staff BBQ: This year’s BBQ put the luck back in pot luck! There was good turnout and everyone who attended was in good company and enjoyed great food and weather. We all look forward to the next FOPLA get-together.
Love Our Libraries: FOPLA and the OPL Foundation have come together in a joint effort to provide election candidates with information about the value of the OPL and to survey those running to discover where they stand on issues related to the OPL’s strategic priorities. Information packages and surveys were sent to candidates in August and through frequent reminders, we hope to have questionnaires back to be compiled by September 27th. The final document will be posted online for public reception by September 29th.
pot-pourri: Work on pot-pourri is well underway! pot-pourri showcases poetry and short stories by Ottawa’s young writers, and this year will feature the winning drawing from our cover art competition. The book will launch the evening of October 7th in the mezzanine of the main library, so mark the date in your calendar. For those interested in pre-ordering copies of the 2010 edition of the book, information and order forms are available on our website. pot-pourri’s two previous editions are available for a special price, but only while supplies last. So if you missed out on pot-pourri 2009 or 2008, send in your order form soon!
/A\ Morning Book Drive: The Friends have agreed to participate in /A\ Channel’s month long book drive. The project is collecting new and gently used books, for children from 5 to 12 years old, to be donated to local school libraries. Participating in this drive will support literacy in our community, promote the use of libraries, and provide FOPLA book store managers with a chance to donate excess inventory to a worthy cause. We’re happy to be on board!
7. Ottawa Public Library Foundation
Website: The Foundation has just received a 2010 APEX Award for Most Improved Web & Intranet Site. http://www.apexawards.com/A2010_Win.List.pdf (see Item 67) Many thanks go to Dave Scharf, our talented web designer, and to Lori Nash and the Foundation’s communications task force, for their tireless efforts in revitalizing the Foundation’s website.
FOPLA/OPLF MOU: has been ratified by the FOPL Board of Directors and will be presented to the Foundation Board on September 13th.
Finances: there have been 543 donors to date this year with revenues totalling $342K;this includes a residual gift estate gift of $176K.
2010 Literary Evening: with Architect and author Moshe Safdie on Monday, November 29th has sold 194 tickets and $44,000 in sponsorships to date. Mark the date and get your tickets soon.
Donor Cultivation Event for Francophone Community: has been confirmed for Wednesday, February 23, 2011 at the French Embassy. The Foundation is working with the Embassy on the invitation list. Councillor Bellemare is the OPL Board liaison on this project and Division Manager Monique Désormeaux is the senior staff liaison.
8. Upcoming Events of Interest
· Next OPL Board Meeting June 14/10, 6 p.m., City Hall
· Every Kid a Card Big Wheels Event October 2/10, 10 a.m., Ben Franklin
Submitted by:
Barbara Clubb
City Librarian and CEO
The Ottawa Public Library Strategic Work Program is based on the Library’s, mission, goals and objectives approved by the Board of Trustees. These are:
OPL Mission Statement: Building a strong Ottawa community by supporting literacy and life-long learning, fostering inspiration and enjoyment and connecting people to each other and the world.
OPL Mega End Statement: The Ottawa Public Library exists to that the people of Ottawa enrich their personal, professional and civic lives through equal access to information, resources and ideas in a trusted, bilingual, physical and virtual setting that serves as community gathering space and in a sustainable, cost efficient and optimal manner.
Goal A Provide Responsive Services
A1 Focus on our future leaders: engage and support key groups who will influence Ottawa’s future success: youth, newcomers and entrepreneurs and small business, seniors and job seekers
A2 Catch up: build our print and electronic collections to address the gap between growing demand and current supply
A3 Be virtual: enhance technology-based access and services
A4 Good reads and the right information: support life-long learning, literacy and reading for all
A5 Stay ‘open’ for our citizens: provide more and better hours of service
Goal B Develop partnerships for accessible and efficient service
B1 Add value: leverage public investment by working with other city departments and partners on key initiatives
B2 Be a window to the City: extend public access to City information and services through the Library’s 33 branches, mobile services and website
Goal C Develop our places and spaces
C1 Care for what we have: implement upgrades and improvements in existing branches
C2 Build community – fill the ‘holes’: develop new branches to support growth and address service gaps
C3 Reduce the barriers: enhance accessibility to our services through physical and technology upgrades
C4 Go green: Demonstrate environmental leadership in all future facility development
Goal D Build a New Central Library
D1 Transform our future and preserve our past: Develop a new Central Library as a civic and cultural focal point, which supports the City’s goals of being inclusive, creative, innovative, proud and liveable
Goal E Be an Accountable and Innovative Organization
E1 Develop our people: ensure effective staff and volunteer development, including the Board, the Friends and the Foundation
E2 Use technology wisely: Utilize the power of technology to extend our services, make connections with our citizens, and realize ongoing efficiencies
E3 Measure what matters: implement a new approach to performance measurement that informs our continuous improvement and more accurately reflects the value-added roles the Library is playing
E4 Tell our story: build increased awareness of what the Library has to offer and report on progress to the public and taxpayers