Here are a few pictures shared by Joan and Yaneth, of Kinsley Public Library, of their time at the Association of Rural and Public Libraries (ARSL) Conference last week, in Wichita. They stopped in and spent some time with Janelle at Wichita Public Library, where she is of course doing amazing things in their technology department! 🙂 If you were at the conference, we’d love to see what pictures you captured and feature them in the System Spotlight! Email pictures to Chris at cdressler@swkls.org or Sara at swilson@swkls.org.
You’re Invited!
Upcoming Program at Kinsley Public Library: Book Discussion of “Braiding Sweetgrass: Indigenous Wisdom“
What is your favorite recipe made from corn, beans, and/or squash? You are invited to prepare it, whether a casserole, soup, bread or dessert, and bring it to the Three Sisters Potluck and discussion on the book “Braiding Sweetgrass: Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge, and the Teachings of Plants” on Sunday, October 1 at 1 p.m. No time to cook? Bring popcorn, or corn chips with bean dip (or just come (there’s always enough food at potlucks). Books are availabale at the library, but if you don’t have time to read it, come anyway, and hear Dr. Debra Bolton of the Ohway Owingeh Nation speak on indigenous people and their relationship to Mother Earth.
Future Dates & Training Opportunities
October, 2023 – Train UP/TBD
Oct 20, 2023, 10:00 am CT – Full Southwest Kansas Library System Board Meeting
Below is a short video explaining the new Braille Awareness Kits that the Kansas State Talking Books has available to send out to interested parties. This awareness kit is available through Inter-Library Loan and can be found in the Kansas State Library Catalog using the search query “braille awareness kit”. If you have further question you can call 1-800-362-0699 or email ktb@ks.gov.
Image provided by pixabay.com contributor geralt
October Train UP
The System Office is working on the next Train UP for the month of October. We are trying to work with Andy Schafer, Director of Statewide Services/State Library of Kansas, and seeing what he can fit in his calendar. Therefore the Train UP date and time is “To Be Determined”.
Cataloging, Collection Development, and ILL
By Sara Wilson
Collection Development Inspiration
Adult Fiction
Children’s & YA Fiction
Get Your FREE Eclipse Glasses!
We are having the first of 2 solar eclipses that will occur within the next 7 months on OCTOBER 14th! Make sure your library is eclipse-ready by ordering your FREE eclipse glasses from SEAL (Solar Eclipse Activities for Libraries) here!
Our solar eclipse kit has already been reserved for the October eclipse, but if you would like to reserve it for the last solar eclipse until the 2040s (!!), happening on April 8th, 2024, be sure to reserve the solar eclipse programming kit from us today!
The kit is first come, first serve. You can reserve it by calling our office or emailing Sara at swilson@swkls.org.
New Resources for You
From Amazon:
Dive into the engaging universe of library cataloging with this insightful guide. Designed for career professionals, this resource presents an exhaustive exploration of the multifaceted world of cataloging in a friendly, conversational tone. Each chapter weaves intricate narratives, delivering invaluable knowledge about different cataloging roles, required education and training, professional certifications, and essential tips for job interviews and resume building.
This guide doesn’t stop at the basics. It prepares professionals for the dynamic nature of cataloging, highlighting emerging trends, the impact of AI and Machine Learning, and the evolving roles in the 21st century. Real-world cataloging project examples provide a practical look into the profession, while further chapters underscore the significance of cataloging in enhancing library usage and patron satisfaction.
The journey culminates with an inspiring message for aspiring catalogers, a handy glossary of cataloging terms, a list of essential cataloging tools and resources, and a recommended reading list for deepening your understanding of this intricate field.
You can order this book from us through SHAREit, through your ILL personnel, or by calling the office or emailing Sara.
The above information has been sent to everyone who attended the webinar, plus those who registered but were unable to attend.
I’ll send information for the next Sharing about SHAREit soon!
Technology
by Christopher Dressler
More Than A Toy
Hey there everyone, Bernardo here with a friendly reminder to visit our steam.swkls.org website if you’d like to find out what cool STEAM related, we have at the office! Everything is currently available in our STEAM collection and they’re all waiting on a chance to show off!
We also have 3D printers waiting to be loaned out to those interested!!
Talking Points to Consider during Challenged Material
The following list is a list of talking points I created and interpreted. As always I have to mention that to get an authoritative opinion you will need to seek counsel.
1. Does the library have a mission and vision statement?
2. Libraries were created to be neutral places.
a. This means there might be topics of controversial nature in the collection.
3. If a patron comes across something they do not like they don’t have to read, listen, or watch that title.
a. The patron can put the item back and continue on until they find what they like.
4. The library reflects the 1st Amendment of the Constitution of free speech and religion.
a. “…make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press;…”
5. Freedom of religion is to allow a person or group of people to worship how they choose.
6. The library is there to help patrons with their daily lives.
a. Medical information; hat religion they wish to follow; how to control money; how to start and maintain a business; gain knowledge about political parties (Republican, Democrat, Independent, Green,…); Learn about history; & Provide a break from their daily lives to escape from work and news.
7. The library is supported with tax derived funds and is meant to reflect your community
a. No matter the culture, religion, social economical background, or the way they chose to live their life.
8. The library offers different points of views:
a. There are different religious, cultural, and political views and If one point of view is challenged it weakens the library’s collection as a whole and any view that someone doesn’t like can be challenged.
9. The Declaration of Independence has the statement, “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.”
a. You notice Creator is used which is a muti-use term for the head deity that created earth (All religions have their own head deity or it could be the same religion but because it is a different language the head deity is called something different. {God in English; Yahweh in Hebrew}); &
b. The pursuit of happiness is a family and individual pursuit.
10. From the Constitution of the United States – “We the people of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America.”
a. “insure domestic Tranquility” – interpretation to respect everyone’s ways of living even if they don’t line up with your ways; and
b. “secure the Blessings of Liberty” – definition of liberty “the state of being free within society from oppressive restrictions imposed by authority on one’s way of life, behavior, or political views.
11. From the Constitution of the State of Kansas Bill of Rights Sec. 1 – “All men are possessed of equal and inalienable natural rights, among which are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.”
12. From the Constitution of the State of Kansas Bill of Rights Sec. 2 – “All political power is inherent in the people, and all free governments are founded on their authority, and are instituted for their equal protection and benefit…..”
a. Key words are, “instituted for their equal protection and benefit.”
13. From the Constitution of the State of Kansas Bill of Rights Sec. 7 – “…nor shall any person be compelled to attend or support any form of religion.”
14. When visiting with patrons with these concerns or they are at a board meeting, you need to remain calm and if you choose to talk only state facts or laws not opinions.
15. Pay attention to the patron’s complaints and don’t put on an air that you are placating them.
16. Say thank you to the patrons for taking the time to address the board and the board can discuss this further at the next board meeting by placing the topic on the agenda.
Cataloging, Collection Development, and ILL
By Sara Wilson
Collection Development Inspiration
Adult Fiction
Children’s & YA Fiction
All VERSO Users: Auto-Graphics updated VERSO on Tuesday, 09/19. The update was a maintenance update and did not include any defect or enhancement tickets.
SEE YOU AT ARSL!!! 🙂
Technology
by Christopher Dressler
In the rapidly evolving digital landscape, ensuring the security of sensitive information has become paramount. One of the fundamental aspects of safeguarding data and systems is implementing robust access control measures. Computer Access Control refers to the practices and technologies that restrict and manage user access to specific resources within a computing environment. This article explores the significance of Access Control and its role in fortifying cybersecurity.
The Importance of Access Control
Protecting Sensitive Data: Access Control acts as a barrier, preventing unauthorized individuals or systems from accessing confidential information. This includes personal data, financial records, intellectual property, and other critical assets.
Preventing Unauthorized Usage: Unauthorized access can lead to data breaches, identity theft, or even sabotage. By employing Access Control, organizations can mitigate these risks and maintain the integrity of their digital assets.
Compliance with Regulations: Many industries are subject to stringent data protection regulations, such as government, health care, and private business. Implementing robust Access Control measures ensures compliance with these mandates, avoiding hefty fines and legal repercussions.
Types of Access Control
Role-Based Access Control (RBAC): RBAC assigns permissions based on job roles within an organization. This approach streamlines access management by categorizing users into roles and granting appropriate permissions accordingly.
Discretionary Access Control (DAC): DAC allows the owner of a resource to determine who can access it and what actions they can perform. It is a more flexible approach, but it requires vigilant oversight to prevent misuse.
Mandatory Access Control (MAC): MAC is a high-level security model that restricts access based on security classifications and clearances. It is commonly used in military and government settings where data confidentiality is of utmost importance.
Attribute-Based Access Control (ABAC): ABAC evaluates various attributes, such as user roles, time of day, location, and device type, to make access decisions. This dynamic approach offers a granular level of control.
Implementing Access Control Measures
Authentication and Authorization: Robust authentication methods, including passwords, biometrics, and two-factor authentication, verify the identity of users. Authorization defines what actions or resources a user can access based on their authenticated identity.
Regular Auditing and Monitoring: Continuously monitoring access logs and performing periodic audits help identify and rectify any anomalies or suspicious activities. This proactive approach ensures that access control policies remain effective over time.
Education and Training: Educating employees and users about best practices in access management is crucial. This includes emphasizing the importance of strong passwords, the dangers of sharing credentials, and recognizing phishing attempts.
Conclusion
Computer Access Control is a linchpin in modern cybersecurity strategies. It plays a pivotal role in safeguarding sensitive information, preventing unauthorized access, and ensuring regulatory compliance. By implementing robust access control measures, organizations can fortify their digital fortresses and protect themselves from evolving cyber threats. Remember, a strong defense begins with controlling who has access to your digital assets.
Always feel free to contact me for training requests, library cards, or technology issues at cdressler@swkls.org or (620)225-1231. – Christopher Dressler – 9/22/2023
More Than A Toy
Hey there everyone, Bernardo here with a friendly reminder to visit our steam.swkls.org website if you’d like to find out what cool STEAM related, we have at the office! Everything is currently available in our STEAM collection and they’re all waiting on a chance to show off!
We also have 3D printers waiting to be loaned out to those interested!!
The 2024 APPLE “HR Basics and Employment Law” is being offered to the whole State as a free webinar. These classes are usually reserved for the APPLE participants, but the consultants believed this was a workshop that would be appreciated by library directors statewide. The presenter of this webinar is Tiffany Hentschel, Deputy Director of Human Resources at Johnson County.
The discussion topics will be: basic understanding of employment law; Approaches to handling employee performance or conduct concerns; and understanding of the Board/Director relationship and a method for both keeping the Board informed and documenting Director performance.
The workshop will be held on September 29, 2023, from 1:30 pm – 2:30 pm CT. If you are in attending this workshop you can register through this link.
Next After-lunch Course for 2023
The After-lunch Course for this quarter is “Incorporating EDI into the Whole Collection Development Cycle”. A select group of librarians from the Pioneer Library System in Norman, Oklahoma will be the panelists. They include: Leanne Cheek; Meghan Hollingsworth; Jennifer Marshall; Anne Harris; Theresa Tittle; and Kelsey Gourd. This webinar will be September 28, 2023, 1:30 pm CT.
These librarians will be discussing how Equity, diversity, and inclusion can be applied to the collection development cycle. “From careful, conscious selection, diverse subject headings, intentional weeding of the entire collection, including the classics, and applying it to staff training.
Image provided by pixabay.com contributor PeterDargatz
Seed Grants Applications being Taken
I mentioned this Friday during the System Board Meeting. The SEED Grant is continuing for another round and libraries can apply for this grant.
You need to remember that the SEED grant goes counties that are eligible and if multiple entities in your county apply you will be competing with them for these funds. The grant committee encourages teaming up with one or more other entities when you apply for this grant. By doing so this will be weighted more than just applying for the grant by yourself. However, this still does not guarantee that you will be awarded the grant funds.
Libraries are eligible for the following funding, if awarded:
“Libraries – projects that support providing free and open access to a broad range of materials and services, including reading material, technology, furniture and building improvements”
The State Library of Kansas sent us a solar science programming kit, provided to them through the NASA @ My Library project. This kit includes a solar telescope and tripod, 2 pairs of solar binoculars, literature, activities, and promotional materials (while supplies last).
The next solar eclipse will be OCTOBER 14th! This kit is available for you to check out from SWKLS – you can search its availability on our VERSO using the phrase “solar science kit.” Checkouts will be allowed for 3 weeks’ use. We will be checking this kit out on a first come, first serve basis, so reserve this kit for your library today by calling the office or emailing swilson@swkls.org!
Professional Collection
We’ve recently added these titles to our Professional Collection. The Professional Collection is available to all library personnel at every level. If you see something you would like to check out, you can request it on SHAREit, ask your ILL personnel to request it on SHAREit for you, call the office, or email swilson@swkls.org. The images of the books are clickable and will take you to the book’s page on our VERSO so you can easily check the availability.
From the ALA store: The clichéd and vague notions about outreach services for teens that so many librarians encounter in job descriptions and performance evaluations do not reflect the importance or day-to-day realities of this undertaking. In this primer for those new to the profession, Snow demonstrates how youth librarians can approach outreach systematically and mindfully to ensure success.
From the ALA Store: Creativity needs a platform. As technology consultant David Weinberger puts it, “A platform provides resources that lets other people build things.” The library is an ideal platform, and in this book Batykefer and Damon-Moore, creators of the Library as Incubator Project, share the experiences of numerous creative library workers and artists who are making it happen. Their stories will show you how to move beyond merely responding to community needs towards actively building a platform with your community. And best of all, you don’t need to start from scratch—rather, you amplify what’s already working.
STREAM Collection
We’ve recently added these items to our STREAM Collection for use in your library. If you see something you would like to check out, you can call the office, or email swilson@swkls.org. STREAM items will be delivered in person. The images of the items are clickable and will take you to the item’s page on our VERSO so you can easily check the availability.
Reminders
For ILL Personnel
It was so great to see some of you at the statewide training on Wednesday! One thing that came up that I wanted to address, as an FYI: if you are requesting multiple copies of the same title, please remember to submit your request as a multi-copy request. This ensures that each individual request will go to different lender lists. Otherwise, if you submit individual requests, the same libraries will receive that same request each time. If you have questions on how to submit a multi-copy request, please reach out! I will be more than happy to assist you.
For Catalogers
When copy cataloging, please remember to check the 490 and 8XX fields. It was brought to my attention at the statewide ILL training that some original catalogers have started putting book club kits in the 490 and 8XX fields (series statement fields). When searched in SHAREit, ILLers are seeing these individual books appear when they search for book club kits. This causes confusion because they may think they’re requesting a book club kit when it’s really just an individual book. So, when copy cataloging, please do not attach your holding to a book that has “book club kit” in the 490 or 8XX field to avoid confusion. As always, if you can’t find a record that has the information that matches the book you’re cataloging, send it to me and I will be happy to create one for you!
For All VERSO Users
From VERSO Product Manager Rae Schneider:
The September Versed in VERSO is now available in the customer portal and VERSO Support pages.
To access the recording and slides, go to Staff Dashboard > Support > VERSO.
Topics/questions covered:
Quarterly Product Update
The New Reports Module
A-G CAT Module Update
Children’s Literature Comprehensive Database (CLCD) Catalog Enrichments
Are we able to generate a list of overdue books checked out from our library? Are we able to generate a list of overdue ILL books?
Is there a way to prevent patrons from putting certain collections on reserve? For example, non-circulating collections, reference or library use only materials, archives, etc.
Does VERSO support patron accounts with multiple barcodes? (Enabling “Store and search previous patron barcodes” and using ‘Nicknames’ as alternate logins.)
The next Versed in VERSO will be held on Tuesday, October 10th, at 11:00 AM ET / 10:00 AM CT / 9:00 AM MT / 8:00 AM PT.
Cybersecurity Awareness Month is quickly approaching. Being online safety conscience is a lifelong activity but in October, we will take the time to study ways we can improve online safety and learn to identify and strengthen our online safety weak points.
Always feel free to contact me for training requests, library cards, or technology issues at cdressler@swkls.org or (620)225-1231. – Christopher Dressler – 8/4/2023
As the digital landscape continues to evolve, so too does the software that powers our daily computing experiences. As announced by Microsoft, the support for Windows 10 will be ending on October 14, 2025. For individuals and organizations relying on this operating system, this marks a significant transition point. Let’s delve into what this means for Windows 10 devices and the steps that can be taken to prepare for this change.
Understanding the End of Support
The end of support for Windows 10 signifies that Microsoft will no longer provide technical support, software updates, security updates, or fixes for the operating system after October 14, 2025. This is a standard practice in the tech industry, allowing companies to focus resources on newer, more secure, and more advanced products.
Security Implications
Running an unsupported version of Windows can pose significant security risks. Without regular updates, systems become vulnerable to emerging threats. Therefore, planning a transition before the end of support date is critical to maintaining a secure computing environment.
Choosing a New Path
The primary litmus test for upgrade eligibility is the CPU (central processing unit) model and generation. Generally speaking, all Intel® and AMD® processors that are 8th Generation and higher meet the system requirements for Windows 11. The SWKLS Technology Department has added a column to the member library computer inventory page that denotes whether a given computer is Windows 11 compatible. Member library computer inventories can be accessed here (available only while using your library Internet): https://forms.swkls.org/inventory/index.php
If your computer(s) support Windows 11, a free upgrade can be installed by the SWKLS Technology Department. Our current plans are to roll out upgrades where possible beginning in 2024.
If your computer(s) do not meet the hardware requirements for an upgrade to Windows 11, the options are to either replace the computer(s) with new ones, retire the computer(s) without replacement, or retire the computer(s) and augment with iPad tablets. Many of our member libraries have begun decreasing patron computer counts as the need for those machines has decreased in some communities. In some cases, libraries have purchased iPads to augment their patron computers when needed. Please note that iPads used in this manner (by patrons) would require a mobile device management (MDM) solution which the SWKLS Technology Department can provide for a small monthly fee per tablet. For current computer or laptop pricing information, please contact Steve Andrews at SWKLS. For more information regarding hardware procurement and disposal, please read the following policies: Hardware Procurement: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1ceNJpdXAhzfYeNxqGRMiLB1IA7cXbRSn_mvgYMT_NAE/edit?usp=sharing Technology Disposal: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1RdbKNY1eRw8vfYvDa1wPQsVlFDqumB_SCBOOBb2tS1A/edit?usp=sharing
SWKLS would like to thank everyone for their photos, videos, and other participation that made TechDay+ such a success. Thank you so much.
This is the first batch of pictures we have from Tech Day+! We’ll share more next week! A huge thank you to our wonderful and talented photographer of the day! Check the Consulting section of the Wrap UP to find out who she is! 🙂
Fowler Library Director Kelli Humiston Met Karin Slaughter, Y’all!
Immediately following Tech Day+ last Friday, Kelli was hitting the road to attend a speaking engagement where she got to meet and receive an autograph from none other then bestselling crime novel author Karin Slaughter!
What an honor! To see her autographed copy, you’ll have to stop by the Fowler Public library’s front desk because I doubt that book is going to be circulated any time soon! 🙂
Southwest Kansas Regional Friends Day
Join Hamilton County Library Director Amy Brucker for the Southwest Kansas Regional Friends Day on Friday, 09/15!
Future Dates & Training Opportunities
September 4, 2023, – SWKLS Office Closed for Labor Day Holiday
September 8, 2023, 10:00 am – RNR & Budget Hearing, Full Board Meeting, Registration Link
September 11, 2023, 10:00 am – Solar Eclipse Activities Workshop, Registration Link
September 13, 2023, 1:00 pm – Niche Academy’s “Basics of Helping Library Patrons with Social Media, Registration Link
Image provided by pixabay.com contributor Mohamde_hassan
SWKLS Office Closed
The System Office will be closed September 4, 2023, in observance of the Labor Day Holiday. We will be back open Tuesday morning with normal hours. Everyone enjoy the weekend.
Image provided by pixabay.com contributor OpenClipart-Vectors
Photographer of the Day
In this Wrap-Up and other editions to come you will be seeing many images from the 2023 TechDay+ from the System Office. I want to recognize the individual that was our photographer for the day, and that was Jacque Sherrill, Director of Jetmore Public Library. I asked her to lend us her talents and she was very gracious and agreed. When you see her again please thank her for all the wonderful pictures she took that the day.
KLA Registration is Now Open
The 2023 Kansas Library Association’s Conference will be November 1 – 3. Registration is now open and you can also book your room’s at this time as well. So jump over through this link to register.
When you land on this page it will take you through the keynote speakers, pre-conference sessions, hotel and parking information and more. To look at the schedule you can see it by using this link. When you get to the schedule page notice that towards the top of the page, before the actually schedule begins, there are tabs for each individual day to navigate for that specific day’s schedule.
Image provided by pixabay.com contributor Peggy_Marco
SWKLS RNR & Budget Hearing and System Full Board Meeting
Just a reminder that the RNR & Budget Hearing for the System’s budget is next Friday, September 8, 2023. We will begin with the RNR Hearing at 10:00 am with the Budget Hearing following. After the two hearings we will have the System Board Meeting.
Those that come in person we will be providing a platter from Quiznos. After we eat we will go into the Directors Forum. During this time I will talk about some of the updates around the country and in our own area of material challenges in libraries, discuss some possible changes coming in the Kansas Public Library Standards Guidelines, and discussion from our member directors on this and any other issues they would like to visit about.
Image provided by pixabay.com contributor Pixaline
Social Media Webinar through Niche Academy
Wednesday, September 13, 2023, at 1:00 pm CT Niche Academy has a free webinar entitled “The Basics of Helping Library Patrons with Social Media”.
The webinar will be hosted by Melody Karle. Topics of discussion will be: privacy settings; how to save and share safely, close out accounts; how patrons can utilize social media to benefit them the most; and take a look at some of the new platforms that are trying to join the ever change landscape of social media.
An App to “Help” Libraries and Schools With Book Bans
It sounds like the plot of some dystopian novel, but here we are. A company has created an app to assist in banning books. Calling itself BookmarkED, the app promises to assist teachers, librarians, and parents in creating “personalized reading experiences” for children in libraries. To read more about the app’s inspiration and how it works, click here.
Recent Book Challenge Issues Making the News
Libraries are feeling the impact of book challenges across the country. Here are some recent news reports involving censorship, book challenges, and bans across the United States. (Special thanks to Sara Koehn, Director of Haskell Township Public Library and Sean Bird, Interim Dean of University Libraries at Washburn University for their contributions to this list!)
It’s that time of year again! We’re gearing up to kick off our monthly Train UPs again and we’re starting on September 12th at 2 PM with a presentation by SCCC Library Director Casandra Norin! Casandra will be presenting on DEI programming – why it’s important and how to do it easily. This month’s Train UP was delayed by one week to give everyone more time to sign up. Please click the link here to sign up today: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/train-up-dei-programming-done-tickets-710381549337?aff=oddtdtcreator
For ILLers
Statewide ILL Training
The State Library of Kansas and Auto-Graphics will be hosting a state-wide ILL training event coming up next month, on September 13th and 14th. The first training will be in Great Bend, at Central Kansas Library System and the second will be in Emporia, at Emporia Public Library.
If you are interested in attending and would like to sign up for the training, the State Library would like for you to fill out this sign up sheet and include the kinds of topics you would like to hear about at the training. (If you don’t know, or can’t think of any, you can always just type “No” or “N/A.”
If you have any questions or need more information, please contact Nikki Hansen at nicole.hansen@ks.gov or (800) 432-3919.
For All VERSO Users
Versed in VERSO
From VERSO Product Manager Rae Schneider:
Dear VERSO users,
The next Versed in VERSO will take place on Tuesday, September 12, at 11:00 AM Eastern / 8:00 AM Pacific.
This edition of Versed in VERSO will include the quarterly product update presented by Cheryl Slinkard, Chief Operations Officer at Auto-Graphics.
The first 15 minutes of Versed in VERSO will be a product update followed by the regular Q&A session.
VERSO recently updated last Tuesday and you may or may not have noticed a new feature. If you were in my session on the SWKLS collections at Tech Day+ last Friday, you’ve seen it in action. 🙂 (Let me know if you’ve tried it out and what you think!) Here are the notes from that update, per VERSO Product Manager Rae Schneider:
RESOLVED
AG-1569
On small mobile devices, when opening saved page links from the menu, a blank screen appeared. This is resolved and the page links will open the saved link in a new tab or window.
AG-2469
The format link in a results grouping with multiple formats was not changing from blue to purple when:1) the user clicked a format link and went to the brief browse then back to the results list, or when2) the user clicked a format link, went to the brief browse, then to a full record, and then back to the results list.This has been corrected so the format color will correctly change on the results list, indicating that the format link has been clicked.
NEW
Additional statistical report categories have been added to the new Reports module.
• Users •Collections
The additional reports provide insight into key performance indicators of the library’s Users and Collections.
Intuitive graphical representations of the library’s performance will be rendered with the option to download in pdf format.
Users Reports
Collection Reports
Technology
by Christopher Dressler
Click Awareness
In the digital era, clicking links has become an integral part of our online interactions. However, this seemingly simple action carries profound implications. Vigilant link clicking in emails and on websites is paramount due to its pivotal role in safeguarding personal security, preserving data integrity, and enhancing the overall digital experience.
Cyber threats like phishing, exploit unwary link clicking to deceive users into divulging sensitive information. By carefully examining links in emails for anomalies and verifying sender authenticity, users can shield themselves from falling victim to scams.
Likewise, the same cautious approach is essential for website links. Malicious software and compromised websites can jeopardize devices and data. Relying on established and reliable sources and scrutinizing URLs aids in avoiding potential dangers.
Additionally, responsible link clicking streamlines online experiences by preventing wasted time on irrelevant or harmful content. This approach guarantees that users efficiently access accurate information from credible sources.
In conclusion, the seemingly mundane act of clicking links demands prudence. By prioritizing safety over haste, users can navigate the digital realm securely, ensuring data protection, personal safety, and a gratifying online journey.
Always feel free to contact me for training requests, library cards, or technology issues at cdressler@swkls.org or (620)225-1231. – Christopher Dressler – 8/4/2023
Digital Signage Notice
Hey everyone,
Bernardo here to let everyone know that an app that we’ve been pushing for our member libraries to use for digital signage ‘Posterbooking’ has, without notice, eliminated their free tier. It came as a surprise to everyone in their community as they were still promoting their 10 free screens last month. Anyone still running the app will notice that any playlist still running on a screen will have this pop up at the end of the playlist before it loops again.
We have been vetting alternatives that would meet the requirements of allowing current devices, while maintaining a similar feature set and We’ve landed on a product called Yodeck. The main drawback in comparison to the 10 free screens that Posterbooking had is that Yodeck only has 1 free screen.
I will be creating documentation on how to get started with Yodeck in the following weeks as time permits, but if you’re looking to give a go yourself, you have our number if you hit any snags in your setup!