Monday, March 29, 2010

Back from Portland

I have just returned from Portland, Oregon and the 2010 Public Library Association Conference. I went to sessions on strategic planning, developing social software policies, library mash-ups, market segmentation, and how to deal with difficult people (not you, of course). Over the next few weeks I'll be working with staff to implement some of the ideas from the conference--ideas related to safety and decluttering will be the first we'll work on since they don't cost money and pay off for patrons and staff by creating a more comfortable environment. Longer term, we'll be looking at our use of social software, and moving our strategic plan into year 3.

Library conferences always have a large vendor exhibits area, and I came back with pens and pencils, note pads, and lanyards, as well as information about the latest new services and gadgets for libraries. There were even books and authors there, just in case you're worried about technology overtaking the printed word.

I hadn't been in Portland for several years, and I was very impressed by how easy it was to get around using light rail. We used it to get from our hotel to the convention center and back, and to get to a restaurant in the Pearl District--all at no charge. Portland also has great food stores, and we brought back bagels and some fancy chocolates to share with family and staff. And now, back to work.

Thursday, March 4, 2010

How I spent my Sunday


Last Sunday was a beautiful day, and I spent it outside pulling weeds and pruning my roses. Until we moved to Washington, I had never lived anywhere where the weeds grow even in winter! Usually I listen to a book when I work outside so I can maximize my "reading" time, but this Sunday it was just me and the weeds--and lots of ideas about what to do differently in my garden this year.

The library has lots of books on gardening and landscaping, of course, but Everett has another great resource for those of us who enjoy gardens--and that's the Evergreen Arboretum. This gem of a garden is somewhat hidden from view, nestled at the edge of the golf course at Legion Park, but is well worth a visit whether you're looking for inspiration or just relaxation. I've been a member for a while, but Friday I am finally volunteering some time to help staff the Arboretum's booth at the Everett Home Show. Stop by the booth on Friday afternoon and learn more about Everett's very own arboretum.