Tag: #publiclibraries

Categories
career careertips hr kathyhusser Librarian & Entrepreneurship Library Leadership work

Communication Styles

Have an agenda and your goals will be accomplished
Have a plan and keep refining for success.

Understanding communication styles within your team is crucial when starting a new project or job. Effective communication is the backbone of successful teamwork and can impact the outcome of any collaborative effort. By recognizing and adapting to different styles, team members can improve their interactions, reduce misunderstandings, and foster a pleasant working environment.

Communication Styles Vary Widely

Communication styles can vary widely among individuals. Some people are direct and assertive, while others may be more reserved and indirect. There are those who prefer detailed and structured communication, and those who are more flexible and informal. Understanding these differences is the first step towards effective communication.

Affect Team Dynamics

Diverse communication styles can either be a source of strength or conflict within a team. When team members understand and respect each other’s communication preferences, it leads to smoother interactions and better collaboration. On the other hand, ignoring these differences can result in miscommunication, frustration, and decreased productivity.

Building Trust and Rapport

Trust and rapport are essential components of a successful team. When team members feel understood and respected, they are more likely to open up and share their ideas and concerns. By adapting to different communication styles, team leaders can build trust and rapport more effectively, creating a positive and inclusive team culture.

Being clear ensures that everyone is on the same page and understands their roles and responsibilities. Misunderstandings can lead to mistakes, missed deadlines, and conflicts. By tailoring communication to suit the audience, team members can ensure that their messages are received and understood correctly.

Inclusivity and Collaboration

Inclusive communication practices help create an environment where everyone feels valued and heard. Recognizing and respecting different communication styles promotes inclusivity and encourages team members to contribute their unique perspectives and ideas. This collaborative approach can lead to more innovative solutions and better project outcomes.

Practical Strategies

To understand and adapt to different communication styles, consider the following strategies:
Active Listening: Pay attention to what others are saying and show genuine interest in their viewpoints.
Ask Questions:   Clarify any uncertainties by asking open-ended questions.
Be Flexible:  Adjust your communication style to match the preferences of your team members.
Provide Feedback: Give constructive feedback in a way that aligns with the recipient’s communication style.

Use Multiple Channels: Utilize various communication channels (IE: emails, meetings, instant messaging) to accommodate different preferences.

Understanding communication styles within your team is fundamental when starting a new project or job. By recognizing and adapting to these differences, team members can enhance their interactions, build trust, and foster a more collaborative and productive working environment. Effective communication is not just about conveying information; it’s about connecting with others in a way that is meaningful.

For more career tips check out: KathyHusserTempe.com

 

Categories
#kathyhusser Family Happiness kathyhusser library books

Streaming Entertainment

Cropped Kathy Husser.png

 

Streaming entertainment, offers a lot of content at our fingertips. However, with so many streaming platforms available, finding the most economical way to enjoy your favorite movies and music can be challenging. Fortunately, there are several strategies you can use to make the most of your streaming experience without breaking the bank.

Bundle Services

Many streaming platforms offer bundle deals that allow you to access multiple types of content for a discounted price. For example, you might find a package that includes access to movies, TV shows, and music all in one subscription. By bundling services, you can enjoy a variety of content while saving money. This a huge savings compared to paying for each service separately.

Take Advantage of Free Trials

Most digital services offer free trials for new subscribers. These trials range from a few days to a month or more. Take advantage of these test periods to explore different services and determine which ones best suit your needs. Just be sure to cancel before the trial period ends. If you decide not to continue with a subscription, you will avoid being charged for a full month’s service.

Utilize Libraries

Many libraries offer digital lending services that allow you to borrow eBooks, audiobooks, movies, and music for free. You just need to sign up for your FREE library card to access the 1000’s of titles.

Additionally, subscription services like Kindle Unlimited or Audible offer unlimited access to a vast selection of eBooks and audiobooks for a monthly fee. This provides a cost-effective way to enjoy reading and listening to current and “Top 10” content.

Explore Free Streaming Platforms

There are numerous free streaming platforms that offer a wide range of movies, TV shows, music, and even books. These platforms may include ads or have a more limited selection compared to paid services. But, they can still provide plenty of entertainment options at no cost to you and your family.

Share Subscriptions

Consider sharing streaming subscriptions with family or friends to split the cost. Many streaming services allow multiple users to create profiles under a single account, making it easy to share access while minimizing expenses.

By employing these strategies, you can enjoy a diverse selection of movies, books, and music while staying within your budget. Whether you prefer the latest blockbuster films, best-selling novels, or chart-topping tunes, there’s a cost-effective streaming solution out there.

For more living well tips check out: KathyHusserTempe.com

Categories
kathyhusser Librarian & Entrepreneurship library books Library Jobs Library Leadership Uncategorized work

Public Library Trends

Graphic with the words Libraries are for Everyone

In 2024, public libraries continue to evolve to meet the changing needs of patrons in an increasingly evolving world. From embracing new technologies to expanding services and programs, here are some trends shaping the landscape of libraries in 2024.

Digital Innovation

Libraries are embracing digital innovation and technology integration to enhance access to information and services for patrons. From streaming platforms and eBooks to virtual reality experiences and online learning resources, libraries are leveraging technology. Public libraries are expanding their collections to reach new audiences to remain relevant. Additionally, many libraries have invested in smart technologies and automation to streamline operations and improve efficiency. Systems such as self-checkout stations, automated book sorting systems, and virtual reference services are mainstream.

Focus on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

In response to calls for greater diversity, equity, and inclusion, libraries are prioritizing efforts to ensure that their collections, reflect the diverse needs of their communities. This also brings with it the call for book bans, censorship of authors, and “cancelling” leaders at libraries.

Expanding collections to include materials by and about underrepresented groups, hosting inclusive programming and events, and providing resources and support for marginalized communities is what libraries stand for. When one or two vocal opponents to this freedom of access causes disruption, it hurts all libraries.  Libraries are implementing training and professional development initiatives to promote cultural competency and ensure that staff are equipped to serve effectively.

Expanded Community Engagement

Public libraries are expanding their efforts to engage with and serve their communities beyond traditional library spaces to reach non-users. This includes partnering with local organizations, schools, and businesses to host events and programs, providing outreach services to underserved populations. This also includes offering mobile library services to reach people where they are, like a citywide book bike.

Additionally, libraries are embracing social media and digital marketing strategies to connect with patrons and promote library resources and services.  Check out the weekly marketing tips and insights from a professional library advocate and marketer.  I love following Angela and get so many tips to share with other libraries.

Sustainability Initiatives

With growing concerns about environmental sustainability, many libraries are implementing programs to reduce their carbon footprint and promote eco-friendly practices. This includes investing in energy-efficient technologies, such as LED lighting and solar panels. Other initiatives include implementing recycling and waste reduction programs and promoting sustainable transportation options for patrons and staff.

Libraries are also incorporating environmental education and awareness initiatives into their programming to raise awareness about environmental issues and encourage sustainable living practices. My library’s most popular program was a partnership with the water department about creating your own rainwater recycling system.

Flexible Spaces

Libraries are reimagining their physical spaces to create flexible, multifunctional environments that can adapt to changing community needs. This includes designing spaces that can handle a variety of activities, such as coworking spaces, makerspaces, and performance areas.

Public libraries are incorporating comfortable seating, collaborative workspaces, and technology-equipped study rooms to provide patrons with a welcoming environment. Libraries have always been about equal access to learning, exploration, and community engagement.

In 2024 public libraries are embracing innovation, diversity, community engagement, sustainability, and flexible spaces to meet the evolving needs of communities. By staying abreast of these trends and embracing new opportunities, libraries can continue to serve as vibrant hubs of learning. With strong leadership and funding to support libraries’ creativity and freedom to read, our society benefits as a whole.

 

For more about libraries follow me at: KathyHusserTempe.com

Categories
Family Happiness holidays kathyhusser

New Holiday Traditions

Yellowstone Lake - Nature is rejuvenating
Wishing you calm and happiness this season

Holidays are more than just dates on the calendar; they are an embodiment of culture, values, and cherished memories. As societies become increasingly diverse, the opportunity to integrate new holiday traditions into celebrations such as Christmas, Kwanzaa, and Hanukkah arise. Embracing these traditions not only promotes inclusivity but also enhances the richness of these festive seasons. Here’s how to thoughtfully integrate new holiday customs into these celebrations.

Embrace the Spirit

Begin by embracing the spirit of curiosity and openness. Learn about the diverse cultures and traditions that are relevant to the holiday you are celebrating. Understand the historical significance, rituals, and values associated with each tradition. This knowledge lays the foundation for meaningful connections.

Blend Culinary Delights

One of the most enjoyable aspects of holidays is the food. Incorporate dishes and recipes from various cultures into your holiday feasts. Whether it’s adding a Kwanzaa-inspired dish to your Christmas dinner. Or you can include a Hanukkah specialty during Boxing Day. Culinary fusion can be a wonderful way to honor multiple traditions.

Share Stories

Holidays are an ideal time to share stories and teachings from different cultures. Incorporate storytelling sessions where each family member or guest shares a tale from their heritage or a tradition. This not only educates everyone about new customs but also fosters a sense of unity.

Meaningful Gifts

When exchanging gifts, consider selecting items that hold significance in the traditions you’re integrating. This could be a book about the principles of Kwanzaa, a symbolic ornament from Hanukkah, or a handmade decoration that represents a cherished Christmas custom.

Volunteer and Give Back

Many holiday traditions emphasize the importance of giving back to the community. Integrate this value by participating in volunteer activities. These should align with the principles of the holidays you’re celebrating. This not only integrates new customs but also embodies the true spirit of the festive season.

Encourage Dialogue

Create an open space for discussions about the new traditions you’re integrating. Encourage family members and friends to share their thoughts, feelings, and questions. This fosters a sense of inclusivity and promotes a learning environment.

Respect and Sensitivity

Above all, approach the integration of new holiday traditions with respect and sensitivity. Ensure that the customs you’re adopting are authentically represented and celebrated. Avoid cultural assumptions by engaging in thorough research and consultation with members of the respective cultures.

Finally, integrating new traditions into celebrations like Christmas, Kwanzaa, and Hanukkah is a way to honor diversity and foster understanding. By embracing a spirit of exploration, culinary fusion, and respectful engagement, you can create festive season for everyone.

Categories
kathyhusser Librarian & Entrepreneurship Library Jobs Library Leadership work

New Managers’ Traits

Leadership written in blue and hand writing the word visible.

As librarians’ transition into managerial roles, the dynamics of their responsibilities change, a lot. Effective leadership is not merely about overseeing tasks but fostering an environment of growth, collaboration, and achievement. Here are three essential traits for new managers or leader in libraries and other fields.

Communication is Key

At the heart of effective leadership lies the ability to communicate with clarity, empathy, and purpose. New managers must be adept at conveying their ideas, expectations, and feedback in a manner that resonates with diverse team members. Clear communication sets the foundation for a harmonious work environment, reducing misunderstandings and fostering a culture of transparency.

Moreover, an essential aspect of communication is active listening. New leaders should not only express their thoughts but also be attuned to the concerns and perspectives of their team. This two-way communication builds trust and establishes a sense of inclusivity within the team.

In practical terms, this trait involves mastering various communication channels, adapting the message to different audiences, and being open to feedback. By prioritizing effective communication, new managers create a work culture for collaboration, innovation, and psychological safety.

Emotional Intelligence

As leaders navigate the complexities of managing a team, emotional intelligence emerges as a pivotal trait. The ability to understand and manage your emotions while empathizing with others is a hallmark of successful leadership. New managers who possess emotional intelligence can navigate interpersonal relationships, inspiring their teams to perform at their best.

Emotionally intelligent leaders are not only aware of their own feelings but can also read the emotions of their team members. This awareness enables them to tailor their leadership approach, providing support where needed and celebrating successes together. By fostering a positive emotional climate, new managers can enhance team morale and resilience, key factors in achieving long-term success.

Adaptability

In today’s fast-paced work environment, adaptability is a non-negotiable trait for new managers. To navigate change and make informed decisions in uncertain situations, positions a leader as a dynamic force within their organization.

Adaptable leaders instill confidence in their teams by demonstrating a willingness to evolve strategies based on emerging challenges and opportunities. This trait involves a continuous commitment to learning, staying updated on industry trends, and encouraging a culture of agility.

In essence, adaptability enables new managers to steer their teams through uncharted territories, transforming obstacles into stepping stones for growth. By embodying this trait, leaders inspire resilience and creativity, fostering a culture where challenges are viewed as opportunities for improvement.

Finally, effective leadership goes beyond merely overseeing tasks; it involves cultivating an environment where individuals thrive. By prioritizing communication skills, emotional intelligence, and adaptability, new managers can set the stage for both personal and team success.

Check out more career advice on my website: KathyHusserTempe.com

Categories
#kathyhusser career careertips kathyhusser Librarian & Entrepreneurship Uncategorized

Managing Coworkers

Have an agenda and your goals will be accomplished
Have a plan and keep refining for success.

As a new supervisor, managing former coworkers can be challenging. It can be difficult to balance the shift in power dynamics while maintaining positive working relationships. In this article you will learn some best practices for managing former colleagues and creating a successful transition.

Establish Clear Communication

Open communication is essential when managing former colleagues. It is important to establish clear expectations from the beginning and to keep everyone informed throughout the transition process. This can include outlining new responsibilities, changes in reporting structure, and any other relevant details. Clear communication can help to reduce confusion and uncertainty, and create a more positive work environment.

Maintain Professionalism

As a new supervisor, it is important to maintain a professional demeanor when interacting with former colleagues. This can include avoiding favoritism, setting clear boundaries, and addressing any conflicts in a timely and respectful manner. It is also important to lead by example and to hold yourself to the same standards as your team.

Build Trust

Building trust is essential in any leadership role, and it is especially important when managing former coworkers. Take the time to get to know your team members on a personal level, and show them you value their contributions. Building trust can help to create a more positive work environment, and help to reduce tension or resistance to change.

Encourage Feedback

Encouraging feedback from your team can help to create a more collaborative work environment. As a new manager, you can help address any concerns or challenges that may arise or have come up in the past. This includes setting up regular check-ins, soliciting feedback on new initiatives, and actively listening to your team’s ideas and suggestions. Encouraging feedback can also help to create a culture of continuous improvement, and lead to better performance for the team.

Provide Support

As a new supervisor, it is important to provide support to your team during the transition process. This can include providing training, resources, and other HR support as needed. It is also important to be available and accessible to your team, and to provide regular feedback and recognition.

A favorite way to recognize your team is learn about them individually.  Thank them with a personal note, small gift, or publicly so they know you value them. One year, I gave my team Life is Good t-shirts depending upon their hobbies, and they loved them!

Finally, managing former colleagues can be a challenging experience. It is also a chance to grow and learn as a leader. By beginning with clear communication, you build trust, encourage feedback, and provide support for your team.  You can create a successful transition and build a strong team with former coworkers or as new leader.

Remember to lead by example, stay open to feedback, and be willing to adapt as needed. With the right mindset and approach, managing former coworkers or anyone can be fulfilling and fun!

For more career tips check out my website: KathyHusserTempe.com

Categories
career hr Librarian & Entrepreneurship Library Jobs Library Leadership work

Mentoring At Work

Leadership written in blue and hand writing the word visible.

Mentoring at work is a valuable tool for personal and professional development. It is a relationship between an experienced worker (the mentor) and a “rookie” or newer employee.  The mentor provides guidance, advice, and support to the mentee (or new worker) for future job success.  Mentoring at work can have many benefits for both the mentor and mentee, as well as the organization or business.

New Skills

One of the biggest benefits of mentoring at work is that it helps to develop the skills and knowledge of the mentee. The mentor can share their experience and expertise, and provide guidance on how to navigate the organization and its culture. This can help the mentee develop new skills, knowledge, and to become more effective in their role.

Builds Trust

Mentoring at work also helps to build relationships and networks within the organization. The mentor and mentee can build a strong working relationship, which can lead to increased trust, understanding, and collaboration. This can help to create a more positive and productive working environment.

Decreases Turnover

A mentoring program in the company can also help to improve the retention of employees. When employees feel truly valued and supported, they are more likely to be satisfied with their job. Turnover within the organization decreases overall with a trusted mentor to support the employee. A good mentoring program can help to create a sense of belonging among employees, which leads to higher retention.

Promotes Diversity and Inclusion

Another benefit of mentoring is it helps to promote diversity and inclusion. When mentoring relationships are formed between people from different backgrounds, it can help to break down stereotypes and biases. This can lead to a more inclusive and equitable workplace, where everyone feels valued and respected.

In addition, mentoring programs can be beneficial for the mentor as well. It can provide them with an opportunity to share their knowledge and experience.  The mentor gives back to the organization and gains personal confidence in their abilities in their role. It can also help them to develop leadership skills and to take on new responsibilities.

Overall, mentoring at work is an important tool for personal and professional development, and for the organization as a whole. It can help to develop the skills of new employees, build relationships, and promote diversity and inclusion. Therefore, companies should consider starting a mentoring program to support the career development of their employees and improve overall work performance and engagement.

For more career best practices check my website: KathyHusserTempe.com

Categories
career careertips kathyhusser Librarian & Entrepreneurship Library Jobs Library Leadership work

Getting Promoted

Leadership written in blue and hand writing the word visible.

Earning a promotion at your current job can be a challenging but rewarding experience. Here are some best practices to help you achieve success in getting promoted at work.

Be A Team Player

Collaborating with your coworkers and being a valuable team member is very important for earning a promotion. Make sure you are always willing to help out, and go above and beyond what is expected of you. This not only shows your dedication to the company, but also demonstrates your ability to work well with others.

Communication

Being able to communicate effectively is essential for any job, but even more so when trying to earn a promotion. Make sure you are always clear and concise when communicating with your supervisor and colleagues.

Additionally, actively listen to feedback and take constructive criticism to heart in order to improve and grow. It can be hard to hear the truth, but effective managers want you to improve and grow. You need to remember that communication styles will vary with different supervisors too.

Take Initiative

Showing initiative and being proactive in your job is a great way to demonstrate your potential for a promotion. Identify areas where the company could improve, and come up with solutions or suggestions.

This not only shows that you care about the company’s success, but also demonstrates your leadership potential. Be sure when you offer feedback (just like your supervisor) you are also offering a valuable solution for the company.

Improve Your Skills

In today’s fast-paced and constantly changing business environment, it’s important to continuously improve your skills and knowledge. Take advantage of any training opportunities offered by your company, and also consider pursuing additional education or certifications.

This will not only make you a more valuable employee, but also demonstrates your commitment to personal and professional growth.  Another tie in to taking initiative and showing you are a real team player to your boss.

Overall, earning a promotion takes hard work, dedication, and a willingness to go above and beyond. By being a team player, communicating, taking initiative, and continuously improving your skills, you display your potential for a promotion.  You will pave the way for a successful career with your current employer and the sky’s the limit!

For more career best practices check out my website: KathyHusserTempe.com

Categories
career Library Leadership

Library Metrics

Customers in a busy library
Have a pulse on what customers want in the library.

If your library runs on a fiscal year, June through July, have you prepared your annual report? What library metrics should you provide the Board?  Read on for tips to create an informative report full of the most impactful information.

Digital Checkouts

With the pandemic, digital checkouts have surged in libraries across the country. Provide your stakeholders statistics on eBook, DVD and music downloads. These items along with magazines are the four most popular circulating digital items. Don’t forget to add the new vendors from 2020 or other anomalies to explain large data swings.

Door Count

The number of people coming through the doors has decreased due to the public health situation. Including this number is totally up to you, but it might not be pretty. You could include new partnerships or other outreach metrics in place of the door count. Safe to say, physical visits to the library might never recover if we need to live with Covid long term.

As a leader, you need to begin to get creative about bringing folks back in. Will large public events or annual festivals drive library traffic post pandemic?  Each community is different and finding the sweet spot for public engagement is your job as library director.

Collections

What new vendors did the library add or delete?  Please include all the collections to provide an accurate overview of your library’s offerings and impact on the community. I’ve worked in library where DVDs were the number one circulating item. Other libraries had a large children’s picture book collection that drove the checkouts due to higher family populations. Tailor the report and metrics to highlight the collections’ strengths while acknowledging possible gaps.

Programs

Programming will be your library’s time to shine. Despite closures, virtual programming has taken off at most libraries nationwide and globally. Edit a bit from a virtual storytime to present during the Board meeting and share how the library was successful.

Be sure to collect data regarding re-shares along with audience size in the initial posting.  Keep a digital archive of the library programs to improve next year. Consider regular promotions of  library programs on social media platforms to reach your potential audience. This will drive customers to the building too.

Format

If you have a choice of format, I’d recommend a simple infographic. Keeping the library information to one page will keep it simple, easy to read, and easy to explain.  Finally, a variety of pictures and statistics also keeps the eye interested and readers engaged.

However, whatever format you choose, keep the report relatable to the average person by avoiding library jargon (like “circs.”) Be sure to have fun reviewing your year. You are the best person to tell the library’s story and advocate in the community. Best of luck!

For more leadership tips check out: KathyHusserTempe.com

Categories
Library Leadership

Library Schedules

Trinity Library's long room with people walking and standing around
Trinity College Dublin

If you are new to managing employees or unsure how to handle your team’s schedules with pandemic restrictions, read on for some tips to help navigate library scheduling.

Plan Holidays and Vacations

Most organizations will need some notice if extended time away from work is requested by an employee. Some workplaces even have minimum timelines for these requests to be approved.  The farther out schedules are, the easier unexpected situations are to address.   Using a spreadsheet or scheduling software, develop a template. Figure the minimum staff needed to work at customer service positions at the library.

With your minimum staff number in mind, map out six to eight weeks of schedules inputting vacations, programs, and time off. Use remaining staff available to develop your desk schedule to serve the public. Keep in mind your customer foot traffic will be less due to Covid closures.

Rotating Staff

If your library is small or has only one service desk, scheduling can be simpler. If your library has multiple floors or has a spacious floor plan, then two or even more service points are the norm. Does your library have a dedicated phone line or does the entire staff answer the phone as needed? Another service point, in the call center, requires scheduling attention.

The recommendation is to rotate professional librarians and paraprofessionals between all service points for seamless customer experiences. Leadership roles should also consider covering public service points, to promote cross training opportunities. In addition, this increases empathy for your team’s interactions with the public too.

Resolving Concerns

Any manager has fielded complaints about the schedule “not being fair.”  This is the time to pull out your negotiating skills and leave policy to provide the best answers for scheduling decisions. Employees may not understand about staffing levels, unexpected sick time or prep for programs. Furthermore, being as consistent as possible with every employee is the best method to address conflicts and accusations of favoritism.

Finally, employees love time off the service desk, and managers need to provide a fair and equitable schedule to assist customers and staff.