Bøger af Dorothy Stoltz

Curiosity, respect, goodwill, and unity: these are a few of what Plato calls "big ideas," and they're concepts that libraries can harness to enlighten humanity in the long-term and help solve problems in the short-term. The journey toward applying your potential starts with personal discovery. A guide for leaders and courageous followers from all types of libraries, this book's aim is to cultivate inspired thinking in library workers as well as the communities they serve. Demonstrating how big ideas can serve as a foundation for core values, perspectives, and an energized mindset, Stoltz and her co-authors explain how libraries of all types can help advance human achievement and the civilizing force of culture; explore Plato's definition of an idea, the role of thinking, and the importance of cultivating inspiration; guide readers towards discovering big ideas and building bridges to them; share ways to focus attention on the powerful potential of libraries, thereby fostering a healthy culture that activates the best in both staff and library users; shine a light on the wonderful treasure trove of wisdom, awareness, and insights in the library's stacks, both physical and virtual, that are waiting to be tapped; and offer motivational quotes and stimulating insights that will spur library staff to nurture curiosity as part of a joyous quest for expanding awareness. By following the concepts in this book, libraries of all kinds can build bridges between big ideas and the needs of libraries and their communities.

with Susan M. Mitchell, Cen Campbell, Rolf Grafwallner, Kathleen Reif, and Stephanie Mareck ShauckCollaboration involves a fusion of individual talents and skills through outreach and cooperation. And it is one of the key ingredients of a vibrant, successful library that is also relevant to the community it serves. But it doesn't just happen magically, and it's a challenge to kindle those original sparks of inspiration into a sustainable effort. Written by a team of librarians and community partners who themselves learned how to collaborate successfully, this uplifting book takes a fresh look at the essentials of how to nurture the best within ourselves and our colleagues in order to create lasting partnerships that will continue to thrive. Its breezy tone encourages reflection and discovery while giving practical suggestions on how to plan for short-term gains and long-term results. Questions and points to ponder included at the end of each chapter will facilitate discussion and planning. Helping you harness creative thinking and channel it into everyday work, this book discusses why collaboration is so important and provides numerous tips for cultivating it; examines what to do when things go wrong, including techniques for generating patience and perseverance to help produce positive results; offers new ways to plan and implement, featuring guidance on how to establish a core group; explores ways to prioritize by starting with clear goals; describes the fundamentals of engaging with fellow staff and the wider community; and highlights ideas to spark curiosity that benefit everyone. An array of appendices with worksheets, examples, suggested readings, and other tools complete this celebration of collaboration, a book that will inspire effective communication and accountability within your organization and among community allies.

Don't simply accommodate families with young children - draw them in and make your library a destination. In this hands-on guide, an early childhood specialist, a designer, and an outreach librarian take you step-by-step through the process of designing an early learning space that fits your space limitations and budget.