Allan Kleiman presented the wonderful workshop, Serving Older Adults With Panache, on February 6, 2012 at SALS.  Since attending the workshop, several libraries have taken action to improve their services to seniors using the ideas and models presented at the workshop.

Here are some of their stories:

Lou Ann Stewart of the Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library reported on the new services the library has added stating: “We have made a few changes after attending the workshop.  First, we created a “senior space” both in a physical sense and online on our website.  We have a kiosk that contains new large print books (it was in existence before we attended the workshop).  We added community information of interest to seniors.  Next to the kiosk, we have a spinning rack with free brochures from Saratoga County organizations.  We held a Senior Expo last fall and created a binder with information gathered from all the participating organizations.  That binder is also located on the kiosk.  Then, we created an “Outreach & Senior Services” page on our website:  http://www.cphlibrary.org/services/outreach-senior.shtml with lots of helpful information for seniors.”Continue reading→

Bryan Oliver presented the workshop, Library Safety & Security, at the Saratoga Springs Public Library on October 27 & 28 2010 as part of the LSTA grant workshop series.  Participants learned how to recognize and appropriately handle safety and security threats in the library.  SALS asked workshop participants to share what they took away from the workshop and how they are using the knowledge at their libraries.

Here are some of their reports:

Kelly Shaginaw of the Town of Ballston Community Library wrote: “The Town of Ballston Community Library held a staff meeting to discuss the information presented at the workshop.  I gave an overview of the presentation, highlighting some of the information that was most relevant to our facility.  Library Director, Karen DeAngelo, and staff agreed that our library would benefit from an updated incident report form and the posting of a Patron Code of Conduct.  The incident report form was updated by the director and reviewed by staff.  The Patron Code of Conduct is under construction.Continue reading→

In June of 2010, nationally renowned psychologist and best-selling author, Patricia O’Gorman, Ph.D., presented a series of stress management and coping skills workshops for SALS’ member libraries.  These workshops aimed to help library staff manage daily stresses and cope with difficult situations in the workplace.  SALS asked attendees to share what they learned and how they are using the techniques Patricia taught them.

Here are some of their comments:

Wendy from the Town of Chester Public Library wrote: “I thought that the Stress Management and Coping Skills Workshop presented by Patricia O’Gorman was one of the best workshops I’ve attended…(second only to the Program and Performer Workshops offered in March).  I not only use some of the techniques discussed during the Workshop at the Library, but at home and in personal situations, as well.”

Nancy from the Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library wrote: “I try not to dwell on my mistakes; rather, focus on all that I do right!  I find myself taking deep breaths every so often throughout the work day-releases tension.  I try to remember that disgruntled patrons, “stuck in their difficulty”, can probably use a sincere smile and whatever help I can give them.  (We don’t know what their world is like!).”

Colleen from the Saratoga Springs Public Library shared what she learned: “I think the information was very useful.  Some of the techniques are ones I’ve been using such as not taking things personally — something I discuss with employees who are having difficulties with co-workers.  I also use the positive thinking, exercise, and breathing.  All of these things are useful, and her session was an excellent reminder of how to deal better with stress.  Just being at the session was a good experience as it always reminds us that others are dealing with similar concerns and problems.  Patricia was one of the best presenters I have seen on this topic.  Thanks again for providing the workshop for us.  I would certainly consider bringing her to our library for a training for all of our staff.”