Have you heard the latest buzz about makerspaces, which are library spaces to create, build, and craft? I was happy to see it highlighted front and center recently by ALA. And, at the recent midwinter conference, there were meetings and sessions on this topic. Typically, we might think of these spaces most within the context of public or academic libraries, but I see no reason why meeting places for enhancing creativity could not fit within most library types. Check out this article by ALA which also includes some popular activities and tools for these spaces. If you already have a makerspace in your library, tell us about it in comments! The full article is at http://tinyurl.com/c64rh5k
Category Archives: General
Upgrading Your Dry Erase Board (App)
This Free App from Educreations blends the functionality of a traditional dry erase board with standard presentation software. The user can easily create quick tutorials and how-to videos. With multiple applications in and out of the media center or classroom you might want to add this APP to your list of must haves!
Click here to view online.
Twitter Chats for Educators
Long gone are the days of thinking of Twitter as an utter and useless waste of time! Professionals are using it to search on hash tags affiliated with conference events, and there is also new interest in Twitter Chats. At the fall MEMO conference in St. Cloud, several presenters/keynotes mentioned Twitter Chats as a resource they used for learning and networking. Indeed, these chats allow educators from anywhere in the world to come together at appointed times on a regular basis to talk about what is important. If you are new to the field, Twitter Chats are also a nice way to get your name and face out there to gain authority and visibility with your peers. Get connected and stay informed! Want to try it out?
The Edudemic blog offers a great post on the Top 50 Education Twitter Chats (And How to Use Them).
ALA Announces 2013 Youth Media Award Winners
ALA announced the top books, videos, and audiobooks for children and young adults—including the Caldecott, Coretta Scott King, Newbery, and Printz awards—at its Midwinter Meeting in Seattle recently. The announcement was webcast for those who could not attend and is still viewable as an hour-long archived recording. Recognized worldwide for the high quality they represent, ALA awards guide parents, educators, librarians, and others in selecting the best materials for youth. Public Information Office, Jan. 28
See the press release which includes all the winning titles at http://tinyurl.com/as8f6x8
Enjoy!
Do You Work With an Academic Trendsetter?
There are only three weeks left to nominate someone you know with a proven track record in bringing creative and quality programs, projects and/or services to your library! The Minnesota Library Association (MLA) is accepting nominations until Thursday February 28, 2013. Click here for more information and nomination materials.