Category Archives: Blog

Spooky season is upon us! Last year, we covered the cozy side of autumn last year (if you haven’t already, check it out here). This year we’re leaning all the way into Halloween. Below are fresh, all-new ideas for getting every age group into the spirit! For Kids Keep it fun, not frightening, with activities […]

Every library, no matter the type, answers to somebody. It may be a board of trustees, a superintendent, a provost, a city council, or any other range of people signing off on budgets. No matter how obviously valuable a library feels to the staff and patrons who use it every day, the people controlling the […]

Summer is winding down, and that means one thing for library staff: back-to-school season is here! Whether you’re running a school library, a public library gearing up for after-school crowds, or a resource center supporting teachers or homeschool families, the weeks before the first bell are some of the busiest of the year. A little […]

It’s Summertime at the Library! Let’s Talk Programming and How You Can Help Your Patrons Beat the Summer Slide Summer is one of the most energizing seasons in the library world. School is out, families are looking for activities, and libraries become hubs of creativity, learning, and community connection. Whether you’re planning hands‑on programs, building […]

What impact could your library’s online catalog have on your community? You might be surprised at some of the answers to this question. The tools that your ILS has available to you should enable you to have maximum impact on the community you serve. Attracting Users Your online catalog should draw in users, engaging them […]

Your library has a lot to offer to patrons who enjoy visiting or learning about new places. Whether they are traveling or “armchair traveling”, connecting library users to these resources is easier with the tools in your ILS. Armchair Travel Many people turn to books, movies, and other library resources to “travel” to far-off places. […]

Growing a successful garden takes hard work and planning. Your resources can help your patrons be successful. You can increase awareness of your offerings by using the tools in your ILS. Your Online Catalog Inspire users to visit your library or explore your online resources by featuring them in your online catalog. For example, in […]

Library staff and patrons both rely on clear, timely communication about upcoming due dates, items on hold, and events, among other things. The easiest way to send these notifications is by using your library software’s built-in patron notices. Types of Notices There are several types of notices sent by libraries. These include: Sending notices Most […]

When the days get shorter and the weather turns chilly, your library can be a beacon of comfort and joy. We’ve put together a few ideas for low-cost ways to instill warmth in your community this winter season. “Warm Up” Workshop Series Host practical classes like knitting, journaling, or soup-making — all easy to tie […]

The holiday season is on its way, bringing a buzz of activity to the library. Heartwarming holiday reads, inspiration for DIY gifts, and scrumptious holiday recipes are all found at the library. How can you use your ILS to make things “merry and bright” at your library? Inspiration Plus Data Equals Success Of course, you […]