Category Archives: SALS News

Mental Health Workshop — Library Updates

Participants of the May 2010 Mental Health Workshop presented by the CDPC Mental Health Players, learned about mental illness and how to handle different situations involving mentally ill patrons in the library through improvisational skits.  Mental health professionals were also available to answer questions and address concerns.  As a result of this LSTA grant sponsored workshop, attendees were asked to tell SALS what they learned and how it has affected their interactions with mentally disabled patrons who visit the library.

Here are some of their stories.

Continue reading→

Marketing eBooks To Print-Disabled Patrons

As librarians, we know how important the written word is; now, imagine not being able to read because you are visually-impaired or have a print-disability.  Fortunately, technology has made it possible for the visually-impaired and print-disabled to have access to books in a variety of formats including ebooks.

SALS has signed up for LEAP, the Library eBook Accessibility Program, from OverDrive and Bookshare.  This service offers free ebooks to print-disabled patrons.  Patrons who qualify for LEAP may include those who receive services from the National Library Service and/or are members of Recordings for the Blind & Dyslexic.Continue reading→

Stress Management and Coping Skills Workshop — Library Updates

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.”