American Libraries has run a number of articles on how to manage your way through the economic crisis that has now trickled down to libraries big-time. Some of our profession's best managers and leaders have produced a number of significant articles that could help us all get through these tough times. They are all available free on this website:
- "10 Technology Ideas Your Library Can Implement Next Week" by Elyssa Kroski, showing how even non-techies can offer cutting edge services right away and on the cheap.
- "Handheld Gadget Helps Cut Energy Costs," by Laura Bruzas, describes how the Kill a Watt gadget can help patrons assess how energy efficient their home appliances are by calculating an individual appliance’s electrical expense by the day, week, month, or year.
- In "A Circulation Renovation Cuts Expenses," the St. Joseph County Public Library cuts expenses by making many of its circulation functions self-service.
- "Remodeling on a Budget" is about how library staff can give their buildings a facelift on the cheap, often without spending a dime.
- The bad economy is a good time to hone your skills. "Invest in Yourself" challenges us to invest in new skills, an investment that often requires no money and very little time.
- In "How to Thrive by Design in Tough Times," Sunnyvale (Calif.) Public Library director Lisa Rosenblum shows how a low-cost library makeover can turn newbie visitors into hardcore patrons.