415 - Updated file
I fixed the errors in the Common Errors handout and reloaded it to the Assignments et al. section of VISTA. Sorry 'bout that.
Candy@GSLIS
 | Content associated with the teaching activities of Candy Schwartz, Professor at the Graduate School of Library & Information Science, Simmons College. |
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September 29, 2006
415 - Biography
All the biographies are now taken (and yes, Jamie, you are working alone). Now you can write your biography and deposit it in the VISTA dropbox for this assignment. There are naming instructions in the dropbox window. The deadline is October 27, and there is only one day of grace for this one. I need the biographies to be all done so that I can then set the "bio-quiz".
September 28, 2006
415 - Office hours this Friday
I have to go to a session with our PhD students at 9 on Friday morning, so I will only be in my office from 8 to 8:45am, and then in the afternoon after 1:30.
September 26, 2006
415 - Scavenger hunt
I have come up with what I think will be a fun activity. This is like the biography assignment - no grade, but you should enjoy it, and your contributions will be valued. I have activated the class wiki, at (http://gslis.simmons.edu/mw/lis415-cs/). I would like you to have a look at it. What we are going to try to do is create a kind of directory of libraries doing cool new things that involve users. Your task is to find a library using one (or more) of the technologies listed, and to provide an entry and an annotation for it. Please do not add more than one library per person per week - I would be the kind of person who stays up till 2am trying to find and add every cool library there is, but that doesn't give everyone else a chance. So not more than one new entry per person in any Monday 1am-Sunday midnight time period. Always check first to make sure someone hasn't beaten you to it. There is no limit to the number of annotations you can add to existing entries. If you have never entered anything into a wiki - here's your chance (and there's a wiki workshop in the Lab on Monday at 1pm). There's also a link to the Lab's wiki tip sheet on the opening page of the wiki.
462 - Agenda
Hagar has created an agenda for our meeting. You will find it linked off the the wiki Project Management page. Please look at the agenda, and if you have any questions or if you wish to add anything, please e-mail Hagar (hagar.shirman@simmons.edu).
415 - Next PPT and ...
I have loaded up the next PowerPoint, and also an "Assignment 2 Errors" handout that might be helpful. We will review it in class.
462 - Next PPT and other stuff
I have loaded up the next PPT. The sequence in class will go: student presentations, me, DL meeting.
I also want you all to know that there are some messages in VISTA Discussion that are pertinent to some of the committees. I love to see the exchange of ideas like this, so carry on, but now that we have the wiki, those messages that are specific to committees can go on the Discussion wiki page associated with the Committee, and those that are not to do with our DL, or are general in nature, can go to VISTA Discussion.
462 - Who knew?
Well, in fact, some of you know that there is a lot more to pixels than meets the eye, so to speak. I updated myself on colour, found out that pixels can be square or rectangular, and that there is such a thing as a sub-pixel. All of that (as well as CMYK, the colour model for printing) is more than we need to know. However, I did amend slide 14 from last week, which now reads:
Pixels and Colour
one or more 8-bit numbers renders 1 pixel (bits per pixel - bbp)
expressing intensities of red, green, and blue values (RGB)
not the same as our childhood “primary colours”
8 bpp can render 256 colours
16 bpp can render 65,536 colours
24 bpp can render 16,777,216 colours (most monitors)
48 bpp can render “a continuous colourspace” (professional image applications)
September 25, 2006
462 - wiki
I am pleased to see that half of the committees have entered contact data into the wiki, and some have begun their task lists. This will be very helpful to project management.
462 - Remote folder
In the same way that you can access your remote folder when off-campus, there is a remotely-accessible LIS 462 folder to which I have assigned you all read-write privileges. You could use it, for example, to store documents related to committees. It has the following address: \\Mcbfs1\studentdata\LIS462. You would log in using the usual remote login method, and then either type the address in directly, or select Mcbfs1, then studentdata, and then LIS462. Documents associated with the project are in the Wunderly folder in LIS 462. I have put two documents in there as a start, in a sub-folder called Start Up. One is the committee list and the other is a list of which scrapbook pages are assigned to whom. I have also made sub-folders for each committee.
If you have never used your remote folder, here are the instructions (PDF document).
Mary Jo Lynch Award for LIS Students
Thanks to student Lana Thelen for the following notice.
In partnership with the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), the National Commission on Libraries and Information Science (NCLIS) and the Federal State Cooperative System (FSCS) for public library data collection, the American Library Association (ALA) continues the Mary Jo Lynch Award for Library and Information Science (LIS) students. The award is a tribute to a leader in the development of a coordinated national library data collection program, and the first director of the Office for Research and Statistics with ALA.
The award encourages library school student statistical research using public library data collected at the state and national level. Any student working toward a master's degree from a program of library and information science at an institution accredite! d by the ALA is eligible to apply. The student must be sponsored by a faculty member of a library school, have prepared research as an article for submission for publication to a library journal (state, national, regional) and the research must be based on state or national FSCS public library data.
The winner will receive an engraved plaque and funding for attendance at either the ALA national conference or the Public Library Association (PLA) national conference. Winners may be asked to present a summary of the research paper findings.
Please contact Neal Kaske (NCLIS) for information about the award, and the award criteria are available on the NCLIS website, http://www.nclis.gov/statsurv/surveys/fscs/awardsFSCS/MaryJoLynchAward.pdf
415, 462 - wiki time
Hi. Here's an FYI re Simmons wikis from David Dwiggins, in response to the question "Why are the times associated with the changes made to the wiki incorrect?"
It appears that MediaWiki is designed to keep all times internally in GMT, and there is no easy way to change this globally. However, individual users can change their own time zone preferences by clicking on "Preferences" and then "Time Zone." From there they can enter "-4" to subtract 4 hours to get the right time for Easter Daylight time. I think it would need to change to -5 during the winter.
Not a perfect solution, but should work.
415, 462 - Federated search demo
We have access to a demo account of SerialsSolutions federated search product, Central Search. This is an unlimited trial of sorts, that "will never expire" according to the rep from SS. It's not customized to Simmons content, so while some things searched are our big databases, some are missing and some things in it will not click through to the full text. But it's still a good learning tool for anyone who needs to teach or try an actual federated search. This complements WebFeat, offered through BPL, that anyone in the Massachusetts is eligible to get a card for and access remotely.
Non-customized Central Search demonstration site :
URL: http://demo.cs.serialssolutions.com/demo
Get a username and password from a Simons librarian.
September 21, 2006
415 - Assignment 2
I have loaded Assignment 2 into WebCT. I will go over it tomorrow.
415 - Next PPT
Is in VISTA. I will put Assignment 2 in there as well sometime later, probably tonight.
462 - Presentation options
On reflection, following a question by Karen and some exploration with David, here are a couple of different things you could do with your files for Assignment 1 (the presentation itself and the background document or documents). I leave it to you, but I do NOT want you to put these assignment files in the public Web.
1) Put them all in VISTA, in the Assignment dropbox. Advantage: actual files stored and secure. Disadvantage: clunky, hard to collaborate, inelegant, hard for users to view.
2) Put the content on one or more pages you create in the 462 wiki (or I can create the page for you if you would like). Advantage: elegant, easy to access, easy to collaborate on text. Disadvantage: so far you can only upload image files to our wiki space for insertion into pages, so your presentation would consist of one or more edited wiki pages. David is working on enabling more file types. You can always linkout to images you have stored in your Web space, a practice of which I don't really approve, but that's me.
3) Some combination of the above, e.g., PPT or HTML files in VISTA, background/resource file on wiki. I think this last option presents some advantages.
415 - On filenames
Don't forget (to quote from the FAQ): When you name your files for drop box assignments, could you please follow the pattern of (all lowercase): asst[number]-[surname].doc (or .pdf). For example: asst3-schwartz.doc. If your assignment consists of more than one file, make the number be the last element before the extension (e.g., asst3-schwartz-1.doc, asst3-schwartz-2.doc, and so on). Don't put in spaces or periods other than before the extension, don't use brackets, and make sure that the extension is present.
September 20, 2006
462 - Next PPT
Is in VISTA (two of them, in fact).
Digital archivist needed
The mission of the Jewish Women's Archive (www.jwa.org) is to uncover, chronicle, and transmit the rich history of American Jewish women. JWA is seeking a full-time Digital Archivist, who will be responsible for shaping and cataloguing JWA’s digital collections.
Founded in 1995, JWA is one of the first organizations in the Jewish community to recognize and invest in the potential of the internet for archival purposes. JWA is now entering its second decade of changing the way history is researched, recorded and taught, and is seeking to expand and enhance its online collection of artifacts documenting the contributions of hundreds of Jewish women to the American Jewish and secular communities. JWA’s most recent project, “Katrina’s Jewish Voices”, marks the organization’s entry into public online collecting, a direction in which the organization expects to continue to move in the future.
Over the past decade, several different databases have been established for the various archiving projects that JWA has undertaken. The organization now seeks to upgrade its digital archiving capabilities, to become a Trusted Digital Repository.
Responsibilities:
• Work with the repository team to update the current databases, as well as to consider metadata and usability changes;
• Work with the Katrina project team to ensure relevant categorization of objects and to maintain authority files; identify connections and areas for further research; help refine and test auto-ingest procedures;
• Help migrate existing digital artifacts into a repository, ensuring proper metadata;
• Assist external users with obtaining permissions to use online artifacts;
• Establish relationships with archivists at other archives, to increase awareness of JWA’s efforts
• Oversee periodic collection and preservation of JWA’s internal documents;
• Address digital preservation issues and ensure that digital materials have appropriate metadata attached to facilitate long-term availability of the archives.
Qualifications
• Bachelors degree
• MLS degree or equivalent combination of education and experience in information/records management
• Strong knowledge of and experience with digital archive initiatives, including required policies and procedures
• Familiarity with digitization projects and standards for media such as photographs, audio, video, as well as newer digital formats
• Strong project management skills
• Excellent written/oral communication skills
• Passion for ensuring that important pieces of Jewish women’s history are organized and properly preserved
• Previous experience in Jewish women’s history a plus, but not required.
Please send resume and cover letter to:
jobs@jwa.org
Jewish Women's Archive
138 Harvard Street
Brookline, MA 02446
September 19, 2006
Temporary Cataloging Assistant
Temporary Cataloging Assistant
Location: Quincy (Public transportation is not easily accessible)
Time Frame-September/October 2006 to end of 2006
Hours per week: Approx. 23 to 33
Description
The cataloging assistant will work on a barcoding /catalog clean-up project. Responsibilities include evaluating and repairing catalog records and adding subject headings. Candidate should have experience with cataloging and be comfortable searching and downloading from OCLC. MLS degree strongly preferred, but not required
To apply: please send Word Formatted resumes to paula.maloney@infocurrent.com Thank you.
September 18, 2006
462 - Assignment spaces
I have created VISTA dropboxes for Assignments 1 and 2, with instructions on file naming. The assignments are to groups, not individuals. I could only enter one deadline for each assignment, so I have to tell you here that your work is due to be completed and in WebCT by 5pm on the day you do the in-class presentation. Once each group's assignment is complete, I will share it with the rest of the class, in VISTA.
Harvard digital library cataloguer needed
Date: Fri, 15 Sep 2006 21:56:20 -0500
From: hulhr@rockhop.harvard.edu
Subject: Project Cataloger; Cambridge, Massachusetts
Project Librarian/Cataloger (Term-limited)
Harvard University Library, Open Collections Program
Full-Time, Salary Grade 56
Duties and Responsibilities
Under the direction of the Preservation Cataloger/Projects Manager, the Project Librarian/Cataloger assists in managing the cataloging and preliminary processing of library materials selected for digitization by the HUL Open Collections Program (OCP). Serves a key role in monitoring and achieving group production levels, coordinating workflows, and documenting policies and procedures. Prepares bibliographic and local authority records for digitized versions of monographs, serials, and archival materials selected for reformatting. Serves as a key source of information on established project policies and procedures. Coordinates problem-solving with OCP staff and project libraries on bibliographic issues. Assists in planning and implementing new project policies and procedures. All work is performed in the context of a project with weekly production goals.
Coordinates and monitors workflow and group production levels for the cataloging and preliminary processing of library materials. Coordinates the documentation of project policies and procedures. Coordinates communication with OCP staff and technical services staff at project libraries about bibliographic problems needing resolution. Keeps Preservation Cataloger /Projects Manager informed of new developments and issues. Prepares bibliographic and holdings records in HOLLIS for complex materials as required, adhering to national and local standards and practice. Assists in interpreting policies for staff and answering questions. Performs maintenance of descriptive metadata in Harvard's Page Delivery Service. Creates and maintains authority records in local authority file and resolves authority problems as appropriate. This full-time position is part of the HUL Open Collections Program, aimed at creating digital, topic-based selections from Harvard's historical collections. The incumbent will join a group of two catalogers currently working on the project. Note: This is a one-year term appointment.
Required Education, Experience and Skills
Master's degree in library science or equivalent; min of 2 yrs of experience cataloging monographs and serials using AACR2, LCRI, CONSER documentation, USMARC 21, LCSH, and OCLC; solid working knowledge of monograph and serials cataloging; basic understanding of authority records (local and NACO); ability to analyze and solve cataloging problems and analyze procedures and workflow; excellent skills in oral and written English; ability to prioritize and adapt to production schedules, meet deadlines, and achieve goals required. Must be flexible and able to work collaboratively in a strong team environment. Working knowledge of HOLLIS, experience both with cataloging serials at a CONSER member institution and with RECON projects, familiarity with pre-AACR2 cataloging codes and local bibliographic standards, experience cataloging archival materials, reading knowledge of at least one European language, and intermediate Microsoft Access skills desirable.
To read description and apply online, visit http://www.employment.harvard.edu/, requisition #27828.
Harvard University is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer.
September 15, 2006
415 - Meeting date
Just a reminder that I pointed out in class today that we will meet on November 3, and not on November 10. The course outline has been changed - be sure to change your own calendar.
415 - Contacts & snack sheet
I have loaded a PDF file containing class phone, email, and snack date info into the Assignments & handouts section of VISTA. Have a great weekend.
415 - Biography
A sign-up sheet has been created in VISTA for the biography assignment. You will find the sign-up link on the course home page in VISTA. See the Web page on assignments for more on this task.
September 14, 2006
462 - Project Management
Hagar has volunteered to do project management and coordinate quality control, and I have taken her up on it.
462 - Dates
I have attached topics to dates in the course outline. There is at least a two-week gap for each person between presentations.
462 - Contact sheet
The file with your contact information and snack dates has been loaded into the Assignments & handouts section of VISTA. We might have one new member, in which case I will update.
415 - Ooops
Gee - I just realized that Class 9 meets on November 10, which is a holiday (Veteran's Day). Duh. We might have to meet on November 3, depending on my flight schedule. Alternatively, I might have to leave you with a non-live lecture. Stay tuned.
September 13, 2006
462 - Assignments
I have made assignments of people to topics - see the Web pages for assignments one and two. I will do scheduling shortly. In almost all cases people got their first or second choice - sorry if you got your third.
September 12, 2006
415 - Next PPT
I have put the next PowerPoint slides in VISTA, along with a handout on searching OCLC in the "Assignments & handouts" section
415 - We're baaaack
Apparently we have VISTA. Yay! So, I loaded up last week's Powerpoint and created a dropbox for the assignment one homework when it is completed. I will be putting up this week's PowerPoint soonish.
September 09, 2006
462 - Assignments 1 and 2
I have finished the list of topics (Assignment 1) and libraries (Assignment 2). Now you should e-mail me and tell me your top three choices in each category. I can't guarantee you will get your preference, but I will try.
September 07, 2006
415 - Web - ha! - CT
Okay - I have put two PDF files on the Web. One is the PowerPoint slides I will be using in class tomorrow, and the other is Assignment 1. Everything else you need is on the course Web pages. When you create the assignment 1 file for turning in, call it asst1-yourusername.doc (or .pdf). For example, I would call it asst1-schwartz.doc. No spaces, no underbars, no capitals. I am hoping we will have VISTA back before the assignment is due.
Update - the files have been removed now that VISTA is back.
September 06, 2006
462 - Web pages
Nothing like working to a deadline. The course Web pages have now been updated to reflect this semester (though, as you know, a Web page is a moving target).
462 - PPT handout
I have loaded the first PDF handout of PowerPoint slides into VISTA. At this point it's just a broad overview.
September 05, 2006
ARLIS internship award
INTERNSHIP IN ART LIBRARIANSHIP OR VISUAL RESOURCES
The Art Libraries Society of North America Internship Award helps a qualified student or recent graduate to design an internship in art librarianship or visual resources curation at any valid institution. In addition to financial assistance of $2500, the award also provides high visibility to its winner. Recipients during the first few years of this program have obtained admirable positions in their chosen field.
Additional information on the award is posted at: http://www.arlisna.org/about/awards/internship_info.html
Deadline for applications in October 3.
September 02, 2006
How I spent my summer vacation
I put some pictures in flickr from the two music festivals I went to in August - Folkweek in Sidmouth, Devon, England, and The World Fleadh in Ballybunion, County Kerry, Ireland.
September 01, 2006
415 - Reading
There's an interesting article by Lorcan Dempsey (for whom I have great respect) in the most recent issue of Ariadne. It's called The Library Catalogue in the New Discovery Environment: Some Thoughts.
Thinking ahead
I would normally not countenance anything resembling advertising, but these are just too cool. Linda Watkins and Em Claire Knowles have created gift tags (or bookmarks) from carefully selected 3x5 cards. Contact them to buy some in time for the December holidays (5 for $3).
Great job at Simmons
Job Description: Graduate Student Assistant to Systems Librarian
The primary goal of this position is to provide assistance to the Systems Librarian in supporting existing hardware and software within the library and in implementing new technologies and integrating them into library services. This includes hardware and software support, taking part in special projects to implement new technologies, and researching new technologies and opportunities as appropriate. The secondary goal is to gain practical knowledge and familiarity with integral library services and their management and implementation. This includes management of the integrated library system, implementing and managing interlibrary loan software, and other applications as appropriate. Specific responsibilities: Assist with the support of library staff hardware Assist with the support of library staff technology-related activities Assist with the implementation of special projects Assist with the support of integral library systems software, including: integrated library system, interlibrary loan software, and others as necessary Contribute to the identification and integration of new technologies into library services
Requirements:
Familiarity with computer hardware and software troubleshooting and support Knowledge of HTML is required and knowledge of dynamic web-development skills (e.g. PHP and MySQL) is desirable Interest and motivation to further the expectations for technology within the library Enrollment in the GSLIS program
Hours/week: 8-10
Pay rate: $12/hr
Start date: ASAP
Supervisor: Nathan Mealey (Systems Librarian)
Send resumes in PDF format to Nathan.mealey@simmons.edu
Call Nathan @ 617.521.2755 with any questions