Karen Muller's blog

Q.  With the increased use of DVD systems it has been suggested that we convert our VHS library of educational videos in VHS format to DVD.  Is it a copyright violation to convert to DVD and discontinue use of the VHS tapes?

Q. I was just reading Theodore Jones’ “Carnegie Libraries Across America” (Wiley, 1997) and saw a reference to Gladys Powers who served as the librarian in the Shelbina Carnegie Public Library for 67 years (from 1921 to 1988).  Is that a record?

Q. Several patrons have come in wanting to donate books and magazines to our library. Most are not appropriate for our library collection, and even our Friends cannot accept all of these donations to sell. Do you have any other resources we can direct them to?

Q. I’m an events coordinator for an independent book store.  We try to do author events frequently, often in collaboration with our town’s library.  The librarian suggested I look into the resources from ALA.  What do you have?

Q. We have demand for new programming, but there isn’t new funding in sight, so we’re thinking about expanding our volunteer program beyond helping with the annual book sale. Do you have any resources that might help us manage our library volunteer program better?

Q. I can’t believe I’m asking this in this age of computers, but are there printed instructions for filing available?

Q. I keep reading about recent closings of public libraries or proposed closings of branches in some larger cities, and I recall that others, such as in Salinas, CA, closed but re-opened.  How many libraries have, in fact, been closed?  I hope it isn't many, as I've also been reading about increased library usage, and I would hate to see cutting libraries viewed as a tool for dealing with strained budgets.

Q. We’ve been asked to find out if it costs our library more or less than average to catalog a book.  But what is the average cost?

Q. A few weeks ago, I happened to visit another library and was startled by the rude service from the front desk staff.  I’d like to be sure that no one would say the same about my library! Where can I get some information on excellent public service in libraries in order to do some in-service training?

Q.  We were in Hannibal, Missouri on a recent spring driving trip and visited the Mark Twain Boyhood Home & Museum.  I noted that it is a “Literary Landmark.”  What is this designation?