Library Legacy Funding

March 11, 2010 -- A new artistic presentation by Traverse des Sioux Library System (TdS) entitled Storytellers will bring three notable individuals to the area to discuss their lives, contributions and experiences in a variety of fields appealing to a wide range of interests.  The TdS Storytellers will be:  Harmon Killebrew, Annie Griffiths Belt, and Jeannette Walls.

March 10, 2010 -- Arrowhead Library System hosted dance programs around the region as their inaugural series of Arts and Cultural Heritage events.  Check the YouTube video with Terrence Smith calling an intergenerational folk dance in Babbit, Minnesota.

In addition to the folk dancing events, ALS has also sponsored musical performances by students of the Perpich Center for the Arts, as well as 11 concerts by the Duluth Superior Symphony Orchestra and just launched their Library and Museum/Events Pass Program.  ALS shared information with area legislators on Library Legislative Day, February 24 about each of these Library Legacy services and a brief examples of individual project outcomes.

February 25, 2010 -- The wait is over!

The Minnesota Historical Society, in partnership with the CRPLSA, is proud to release the Minnesota's Greatest Generation in the Libraries Catalog.  With much anticipation, the catalog is the graphic presentation of the start of a beautiful partnership that will bring quality programs to libraries and communities - large and small - throughout Minnesota.  The offerings include music, theater, speakers, workshops, intergenerational programming materials and support for communities electing a "do-it-yourself" approach.

CRPLSA/MHS project coordinators, Ginny Brodeen and Maren Levad, will serve as the point of contact and booking agents for the Regional Library Systems and local libraries interested in scheduling just one or several programs described in the MGG in the Library Catalog.  The Regional Library Systems will distribute the Catalog to area libraries and encourage library staff and coordinating volunteers to start booking.  The kits (described on page 9) are being assembled and should arrive at the Regional Library offices by early April.

For more information contact: 

Ginny Brodeen  - CRPLSA/MHS Library Coordinator

Maren Levad  - MHS Library Partnership Coordinator

February 24, 2010 -- Evaluation is an integral component in the planning for Library Legacy programming. The CRPLSA/MHS project coordinators, Ginny Brodeen and Maren Levad, have crafted an evaluation template for the Family Day Kit.  Additional evaluation forms are in development and, while they will be similar to the Family Kit template, each evaluation will be tailored to different outcomes or project goals. Still to come will be evaluation forms for the intergenerational programming kits, the film series, MGG speakers, musicians and theatrical presentations.  There are also more intensive pre and post surveys for the workshops in development. The Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund (ACHF) adheres to an overarching principle that programming must be rooted "in principles that guarantee the greatest positive impact with as many Minnesotans as possible" and this includes those funds assigned to the Regional Library systems.  To this end, Library Legacy programming, projects and exhibits will include measurable outcomes. 

Just in time for Library Legislative Day!

The Minnesota Historical Societyand CRPLSA issued a joint press release on February 23, 2010 announcing a new partnership forged with Legacy funds and launching Minnesota's Greatest Generation in the Libraries.   Statewide media outlets were alerted to a collaboration that will bring proven programming to libraries throughout Minnesota.  Libraries are encouraged to add their logo to the press release and share with local newspapers, radio and television stations.

February 23, 2010 -- Last week, the SELCO Legacy Review Committee allocated a total of $66,083 for 18 Library Legacy projects. A wide variety of proposals were funded, including author talks, music and dance performances, theatre workshops and more!  For a complete list of recipients, project titles and grant amounts, check the SELCO website.

February 23, 2010 -- Work continues at a record pace to offer local libraries opportunities to experience the Minnesota Historical Society's (MHS) latest major exhibit, Minnesota's Greatest Generation.  The collaborative venture will produce a catalog of offerings including musical performances, oral history workshops, and intergenerational programming assistance.  The statewide Library Legacy activities, funded with Arts and Cultural Heritage (ACHF) includes a multi-pronged approach and draws on the resources of a variety of individuals and resources.

*Minnesota Regional Libraries and Minnesota Historical Society Legacy Partnership*gbrodeen@ gmail.com

Ginny Brodeen - CRPLSA/MHS Library Coordinator
Maren Levad - MHS Library Partnership Coordinator
Wendy Jones - MHS Head of Museum and Education Services
Susan Fedoruk - Fedoruk & Associates, Inc., Public Relations and Marketing

MHS Intergeneration Programs (IGP)

Maren Levad - IGP Library Partnership Coordinator

MHS History Day

Dan Ott - CRPLSA/Legacy History Day
Tim Hoogland - Co-Coordinator of History Day
JoEllen Haugo - MELSA/HCL: History Day

February 3, 2010 -- Minnesota Citizens for the Arts (MCA) invites you to join other arts advocates at the Minnesota History Center and State Capitol on March 2, 2010 to talk about the arts, make new friends, and educate our legislators about the importance of the arts to Minnesota. Artists and arts supporters from across the state will join together and speak about the importance of the arts in our lives and communities.

Arts Advocacy Day Schedule March 2, 2010

7:30 a.m. Meet at the Minnesota History Center, St. Paul
8:00 a.m. Advocacy Class for new attendees
8:00 a.m. Registration & Coffee
8:30 a.m. Advocacy Seminar & Join your team
9:30 a.m. Walk or ride to Capitol
9:30-1:00 p.m. Legislator appointments

You and your team will be led by an experienced advocate who has participated in past Advocacy Days and knows what to do. Your team will visit a series of legislators during the course of the day, giving you plenty of time to get to know your teammates and the issues you are discussing.
By working together we show the strength of Minnesota's arts community. Your elected officials are your voice in government: let them know what you think!

Register Online by February 26th, 2010

Questions? Contact Mark Albers  at MCA: 651-251-0868

January 29, 2010 --  Charlene Hudgins, the new Lake Agassiz Regional Library (LARL) Legacy Project Coordinator, has been on the road and, weather permitting, by the end of this week, she will have visited all 23 of LARL service locations, 13 branch libraries and 10 LINK Sites. 

LARL's first program will be February 2, 2010 when Norwegian author/storyteller Lise Lunge-Larsen (known as "The Troll Lady") from Duluth visits the Moorhead Library and speaks to several developmental psychology classes at Concordia College.

The end of March, Minnesota author William Durbin will speak at the Moorhead Library and visit all 6th grade classes at Horizon Middle School in Moorhead.

April will bring musher/explorer/author Pam Flowers to the Barnesville, Breckenridge, Detroit Lakes, and Moorhead schools and libraries. 

Minnesota History Day is being expanded in the region.  Horizon Middle School (Moorhead) will bus a total of 120 students to the Moorhead Library on January 28th.  Library staff will be giving tours, talking about primary sources, and searching the LARL catalog.  On February 9th and 11th, groups of up to 60 students from Hawley School will be touring the Moorhead Library to learn about History Day resources and how to use the library.

The Minnesota Humanities Center grant LARL received to host "Authors in Communities" programs in Crookston, Detroit Lakes and Mahnomen is being expanded with Legacy dollars.  The first program, April 26-28, 2010, will be a residency in Crookston by Minnesota author/poet Ray Gonzalez.  He will do a poetry reading at the library and speak to students and both the Crookston High School and University of Minnesota - Crookston.

January 29, 2010 -- Northwest Regional Library (NWRL) Legacy Programs will be marketed under a "Journey" theme and has a full year of activities planned.

Winter 2010 with programs in all seven NWRL libraries on a theme of literary arts

• January -e-Publishing Workshops
• February - Greg Breining -Ice fishing
• March - Lorna Landvik

Spring 2010 in Roseau with an expanded theme of literary arts; history; and visual arts

• May - Hosting a two day Writer's Conference.  Based on information gathered from participants of the e-Publishing Workshops, initial plans fror the workshop will include:  fiction, poetry and biography.  Local high school students will be invited to participate along with adults.

Summer 2010 will focus on art and history sessions in the seven NWRL libraries

• August - Two day Camps for Grades 2 -8.  Topics will include historic crafts with support from the Minnesota Historical Society (MHS), theater, preserving family history, pottery, architecture, puppets, interpret music, and others topics still in development.

 
Fall 2010 in seven libraries using the family history and Minnesota's Greatest Generation
A major component will include the Minnesota Greatest Generation being organized by MHS and CRPLSA, as well as learning  how to preserve their own family history through media, electronic (scanning/electronic scrapbooks); journaling, etc.

January 28, 2010 -- East Central Regional Library (ECRL) hired Cortney Walbridge as their new Library Legacy Project Coordinator.  Walbridge holds a degree in art and business (a perfect combination for the Arts and Cultural Heritage activities) as well as being enthusiastic about ECRL and statewide Legacy activities.

January 28, 2010 -- Traverse des Sioux Library System (TdS) has awarded approximately 30 grants to the tune of just under $40,000 for a broad range of programs.  At a regional level, given the lack of planning time available within this fiscal year, TdS is pursuing a series of "big name" speakers.

January 28, 2010 -- MELSA inaugurates their Legacy activities with a large metro-wide project this week. "America the Beautiful," is a black and white photography exhibit by Clyde Butcher featuring scenes from national parks.  Hosted at the Saint Paul Public Library and James J. Hill Library, MELSA will host programs at libraries throughout the Twin Cities featuring topics, such as, how to take black & white photographs to the Rose Ensemble performing at the opening exhibit.  Plans are underway to have a special "Legislator and Governing Officials" event sometime after the legislative session begins.

MELSA also has several other large region-wide projects still in the planning stages: Community Cinema Discussions featuring public television's Independent Lens series; a music CD created by the MacPhail Center for Music promoting music for early childhood education and Senior Art Residencies with the Minnesota Creative Arts and Aging Network.  In addition, MELSA is planning a "Major Author" in the Suburbs series.

January 27, 2010 -- Lake Agassiz Regional Library shares their in-house version of a photo release form authorizing LARL to take photos and to use the pictures in a manner describe.  A useful tool as Library Legacy programs and activities are hosted around the state.

January 25, 2010 -- The Midwest Art Conservation Center (MACC) will offer a two-day grant writing workshop for preservation and conservation projects presented by Neil Cockerline, MACC Director of Preservation Services, and Colin Turner, MACC Executive Director.  The first day will present a general overview of various types of grants and application procedures with a focus on utilizing the federal grant protocol.  The second day will allow participants to focus on developing specific grants for their prioritized needs. The instructors will present a comprehensive workshop on grant writing for conservation related projects including:
    

• General Preservation Assessment Surveys
• Long Range Conservation Plans
• Preservation training
• Obtaining supplies and materials for basic rehousing of collections
• HVAC System upgrades
• Major storage renovations or additions
• Object by Object detailed surveys of collections
• Conservation treatments and other large scale or large budget preservation and conservation projects.

Related topics will include:

• Potential public and private funding sources at the federal, state and local levels
• Internal reviews to facilitate presenting the organization in the best possible light
• Putting all of the pieces together before developing a grant
• Budget, preparing a realistic proposal and how to complete a final grant report.

The goal of the workshop is for participants to leave the session with a draft proposal. MACC staff will then follow-up with participants who are developing full grant applications. This workshop is co-sponsored by Minitex.

Details

Topic:       Writing Grants for Preservation and Conservation Projects

Date:        March 29-30, 2010

Location:   Elmer L. Anderson Library at the University of Minnesota

Fee:          $245 or $195 for MACC Members

January 25, 2010 -- Chris Olson, MELSA Executive Director, has been serving as CRPLSA's point person on a possible joint project to showcase Minnesota's public libraries in print.  Olson reports Ann Regan, the Editor-in-Chief at the Minnesota Historical Society Press, is very excited about the idea of creating a Public Libraries in Minnesota book as part of the MHS Press Minnesota Byways series.   While Ms. Regan is finalizing a book agreement for CRPLSA consideration, she has initiated a few tasks to move the proposal along.  For a sampling of the type of book being considered, check Cabins of Minnesota or Schoolhouses of Minnesota.

January 19, 2010 -- Lake Agassiz Regional Library (LARL) is pleased to announce the appointment of Charlene Hudgins as Legacy Program Coordinator for the 7-county regional library system.  Ms. Hudgins brings a wealth of successful program, partnership, and project management experience to this position, most recently from her years of working as Managing Artistic Director of Fargo-Moorhead Community Theatre (FMCT) and its professional touring company, Northern Prairie Performing Arts. In this new position, Hudgins will work with library staff, community organizations, schools, local, regional and statewide partners, and other regional library systems to develop and implement a wide variety of arts, history and cultural programming designed to benefit all ages.

During the fall of 2009, program ideas were gathered from library staff and from an online survey on the LARL website.  Focus Group sessions were held in LARL's Hub communities of Crookston, Detroit Lakes and Moorhead.  Participants represented arts organizations, historical societies, museums, art galleries, community organizations, schools, and other potential partners. Regional Library Director Kathy Fredette noted, "We've just begun to realize the wide-range of opportunities and experiences Legacy funding will make available to citizens in the LARL region.  It's awesome and very exciting!" 

Fredette noted that LARL staff is currently completing surveys which document possible venues, in addition to libraries and LINK Sites, where programming and activities can take place.  Senior centers, community centers, museums, schools, churches, assisted living centers, performing arts centers, businesses, and more are being identified.  LARL has a history of offering arts, history, and cultural heritage programs for children and adults.  Fredette noted, "With 13 branch library communities and 10 LINK Site communities - from Breckenridge to Crookston and Moorhead to Gonvick, Legacy funding will offer so many more opportunities to reach people, in so many more ways than has been possible up to this point."  The funds will allow LARL to provide educational opportunities in the arts, history, literary arts, and cultural heritage of Minnesota.  "We believe these educational opportunities can best be accomplished in collaboration with arts, history, and cultural organizations in our communities, across the region, and beyond." 

Several statewide initiatives are also in the works, the first being a collaborative effort with the Minnesota Historical Society to bring programs and services based on the tremendously popular Minnesota's Greatest Generation exhibit across the state.  Minnesota's network of regional public libraries will host a variety of programs, events, displays, and experiences for people of all ages.

January 15, 2010 -- The Arts and Cultural Heritage Funding (ACHF) Planning Committee released its final report to the Minnesota Legislature today, January 15, 2009.  The ACHF Committee was formed by the Minnesota Historical Society, the Minnesota State Arts Board, and the Minnesota Humanities Center and was comprised of 13 representatives of interested communities and organizations indentified in the law to receive ACHF funds.

As a framework for the next 25 years, the Committee recommends that  "ACHF programming must be rooted in principles that guarantee the greatest positive impact with as many Minnesotans as possible and lead to the kind of social, cultural and economic development outlined in this vision."

Looking to the more immediate future of the next 10 years, the ACHF Committee states that it is "crucial that the ACHF have a defined set of measurable goals that can be evaluated periodically to ensure the program is on track and effective."  The Committee then goes on to recommend that the goals and outcomes receive regular review including biennial reports to the Legislature.

January 15, 2010 -- The Minnesota State Arts Board is pleased to announce seven new grant programs that will support arts and arts access, arts learning, and arts and cultural heritage across the state, and will give Minnesotans more opportunities to experience the arts.  The programs are underwritten by an appropriation from the state legislature from Minnesota's new Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund (ACHF). 
 
The new programs are intentionally broad and flexible so that a diverse array of activities can be funded.  Nonprofit organizations, communities, units of government, educational institutional, arts organizations, artists, and others are encouraged to apply.
 
Information about three of the seven grant programs is now available on the State Arts Board's website.  Information about the remaining programs will be available shortly. week. 
 
Please take a minute today to review the program information.  Application deadlines begin in early February.   The State Arts Board wants to make these new opportunities available to all Minnesotans and will appreciate wide distribution of this message to anyone you think might be interested. 
 

If you have questions about the Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund or the new programs,  contact the Minnesota State Arts Board.

Sue Gens, Executive Director Minnesota State Arts Board (651) 215-1600, or (800) 866-2787

January 14, 2010 -  The Friends of the St. Paul Public Library, in the leadership role of celebrating Minnesota Authors and Illustrators with the Minnesota Book Awards (MNBA), will offer CRPLSA a wide range of options to support and expand MNBA activities around the state.  Alayne Hopkins, Programming Coordinator, Minnesota Book Awards Director, suggests a comprehensive list including:

• Author programming packages
• Book-Club-in-a-Bag
• Promotional support
• Writing workshops featuring MNBA writers
• TPT television productions and partnerships

The Friends offer much more information about the Minnesota Book Awards, its history information about the 2010 contest and upcoming Gala on April 17, 2010.

January 14, 2010 -- SELCO's new Legacy Review Committee approved $10,193 for the first six projects requesting Library Legacy money.    The projects range from author presentations in Blooming Prairie to a Kenyan musical and storytelling performance in Rochester.

• Blooming Prairie Public Library with the Blooming Prairie Public Schools - - $550
• Buckham Memorial Library – Faribault - - $1,100
• Rochester Public Library - - $5,700
• St. Mary's University with the Winona Public Library - - $1,268
• Wabasha Public Library with the RJAC (River Junction Arts Council) - - $1,575

SELCO is accepting applications for the second round of applications from libraries and partner organizations seeking Arts and Cultural Heritage Library Legacy funding through its Art and Culture Live and Community Collaborations grant offerings.  Additional information is available on SELCO's Library Legacy webpage.

January 12, 2010 --Working in partnership, the Minnesota Historical Society and CRPLSA will create a dynamic and exciting framework for Legacy programs around the state.  Legacy staffers, Maren Levad and Ginny Brodeen, will design library programs that revolve around Minnesota Historical Society's very successful Minnesota's Greatest Generation Project, as well as an on-going effort to record and share the stories of our state's Greatest Generation.  Levad and Brodeen are seeking input as they start planning.  For more information, contact your local regional library or:

Ginny Brodeen, Library Partnership Coordinator

Maren Levad, Minnesota Historical Society Statewide Library Legacy Coordinator

January 11, 2010 -- Join Marian Rengel, Outreach Coordinator for the Minnesota Digital Library, for a new webinar: "The Minnesota Digital Library, Minnesota Reflections, and Digitizing Your Collections."  This free online informational session will introduce participants to the how-s and why-s of contributing to Minnesota Reflections, an online collection of more than 40,000 photographs, maps, journals, and documents contributed by more than 105 Minnesota cultural heritage institutions. 

The webinar is scheduled for February 10, 2010 from 10:00 - 11:30 a.m. and will include:

• How to get started and how to plan new projects to digitize photos, documents, sound, and more.

• Answer questions.

• Learn about the Minnesota Digital Library Coalition (MDLC) and the benefits of collaborating with the MDLC on your digital projects.

• Learn about funding possibilities and options.

• Provide assistance in deciding if the time is right for your institution to begin a digital project with the MDLC.  

The session is planned for staff of any Minnesota library, historical society, archive, museum, or other type of cultural heritage institution interested in starting a digital project or any organization that has worked with the Minnesota Digital Library and is interested in doing another project.  Bring your questions as there will be plenty of time for discussion.

To register for this session, visit the Minitex Webinar Session Catalog. 

For more information contact:

Marian Rengel, Outreach Coordinator
Minnesota Digital Library Coalition
Learning Resources & Technology Services
Miller Center B41-9
St. Cloud State University
720 Fourth Avenue South
St. Cloud, MN 56301-4498
Office (320) 308-5625
Fax (320) 308-4778 (shared)

January 5, 2010 -- The Council of Minnesota's Regional Public Library System Administrators (CRPLSA) is pleased to announce the appointment of Ginny Brodeen as the Library Legacy Program Coordinator for the statewide Legacy Fund partnership with the Minnesota Historical Society.  Ms. Brodeen brings a wealth of successful program, partnership, and project management experience to this position, from her years of working at St. Paul Public Library in public service, outreach and management to her wide variety of professional contributions within the Minnesota Library Community.  
 
This partnership between Minnesota's Libraries and the Minnesota Historical Society will bring programs and services based on the tremendously popular Minnesota's Greatest Generation exhibit across the state.  Minnesota's network of regional libraries will host a variety of programs, events, displays, and experiences for people of all ages.
 
"Minnesota's Greatest Generation: The Depression, The War, The Boom" explores and celebrates the generation of those who came of age in mid-20th century America with particularly daunting challenges. After a childhood overshadowed by the Great Depression, world war rushed these young men and women into adulthood. This generation's endurance and ingenuity brought not only wartime victory but unprecedented prosperity in the post-war years. In recognition of their courage and in gratitude for their efforts, many have called them the "Greatest Generation."
 
Programs and services will encourage local exploration and discovery of stories, memorabilia, and experiences of Minnesota's Greatest Generation for all ages to examine and enjoy.  This will be an extraordinary opportunity to experience a vast sweep of American and Minnesota history from the 1920s to the present day.

For more information, contact Mark Ranum, Plum Creek Library System, 612-701-9989.

This project was funded in part or in whole with money from the vote of the people of Minnesota on November 4, 2008 which dedicated funding to preserve Minnesota's arts and cultural heritage. 

December 31, 2009 -- The Minnesota Historical Society, the Minnesota State Arts Board, and the Minnesota Humanities Center have been enthusiastically soliciting information from around the state for a 25-year framework and a 10-year plan.  A  draft was released on December 21, 2009 and  public comments are encouraged.

This work is in response to a legislative requisite in the first Legacy Amendment appropriations bill requiring that "...programs and organizations funded through the arts and cultural heritage fund shall conduct a collaborative project to develop...a ten-year plan and a 25-year framework for use of the funding that includes goals and measurable outcomes and includes a vision for Minnesotans of what arts, history, and cultural heritage will look like in 25 years." 

December 28, 2009 -- As part of statewide activities for Minnesota's Greatest Generation (MGG), the Minnesota Historical Society (MHS) hosted "Preserving Your Family's Treasures" in nearly every Minnesota County.   MHS Outreach Conservator, Bob Herskovitz, will conduct his stellar workshop "Preserving Your Family's Treasures" in four remaining counties, to share this information with audiences statewide.

MHS and CRPLSA will undertake a new joint venture to expand the outstanding work to already accomplished through the MGG exhibit and outreach efforts to libraries around the state.  "Preserving Your Family's Treasures" is a great example and will serve as a model for the type of future collaborative activities that will be undertaken.

December 23, 2009 -- SELCO conducted 11 Community Conversations about Library Legacy initiatives between November 18 and December 16, 2009.  At each Conversation, participants reported a variety of community partnerships already in existence and an enthusiastic willingness to explore new collaborative opportunities to effectively use Legacy funding.  SELCO's brief synopsis outlines the wide range of possibilities being considered and includes an attendance summary by county and links to more detailed notes.

December 15, 2009 -- MELSA library directors and board members continue their planning discussions for the Arts and Cultural Heritage Library Legacy funding and share this summary.

December 15, 2009 -- Hennepin County Library (HCL) staff will assist CRPLSA to expand the Library's History Day Hullabaloo into a state-wide initiative.  History Day Hullabaloo was developed by the Library in collaboration with the Minnesota Historical Society History Day staff and the University of Minnesota history mentoring program to promote library resources for students, teachers, and parents working on History Day projects.

Through a shared employment arrangement between MELSA and Hennepin County Library, JoEllen Haugo at Central Library will assist with this new state-wide initiative.  She will draw on the Central Library's extensive history collection and her previous experiences working with the Central Library Class Visits Team.  History Day Hullabaloo has provided JoEllen the opportunity to forge a working relationship with the Hennepin County Library Subject Guide History Day Youth Service Librarian and Web Services staff to promote the TeenLinks History Day Subject Guide.  With her practical experiences, she has been an annual speaker at statewide Social Studies teacher meetings, MELSA's History Day@ Your library workshops, and presentations to classes visiting Central Library, as well as speaking at MLA's 2009 Conference.

As planned, the special half-time employment assignment will begin January 2010 for an initial six-month period.  The goal is to replicate the Central Library's History Day Hullabaloo in other Minnesota libraries.  That expansion will take place during the first quarter of 2010.  JoEllen will help plan a program to work with educators statewide to prepare for History Day programs that will be initiated in the fall of 2010.  As evaluation and outcome measurements are an important component of Library Legacy funding, an evaluation of an expanded History Day Hullabaloo will be conducted in the spring 2010.

For more information contact Chris Olson, MELSA Executive Director, or JoEllen Haugo, Librarian, Hennepin County Library, Central Library.

December 14, 2009 -- The Statewide Legacy Planning Committee hosted six Listening Sessions around Minnesota during October and November.  ACHF Minnesota now offers a lengthy summary of the comments shared during those sessions in a Key Findings document.  Included are comments about the 25-Year 2035 Vision, criteria for guiding funding decisions, guiding principles, 10-year Goals, and differentiation between those things the groups felt should be "In" or "Out" of considerations for key areas of ACHF for Arts, Arts Access, Arts Education, History, and Cultural Heritage.  The Statewide Legacy Planning Committee continues its deliberations and will submit a written report to the Legislature in January before the start of the 2010 legislative session.

December 11, 2009 -- Evaluation and measurable outcomes are important components of the Arts and Cultural Heritage Library Legacy programs.  Using their application materials as a model,   Traverse des Sioux Library System and SELCO (Southeastern Libraries Cooperating) created Evaluation and Final Report forms.  Samples are included.

SELCO Evaluation and Final Report form for FY 2010

Traverse des Sioux Library System ACHF Final Report

December 9, 2009 -- Amendment.org is a new website designed to provide general information on all aspects of the Legacy Amendment - Clean Water, Wildlife Habitat, Parks & Trails, and Arts & Cultural Heritage.

December 8, 2009 -- Minnesota's Regional Public Library Directors are seeking an energetic and talented individual to coordinate and provide leadership for the Regional Public Library - Minnesota Historical Society (MHS) Legacy Partnership.

This position will insure libraries can successfully implement programs and services based on the Minnesota's Greatest Generation Program from MHS.   This position will represent regional  libraries within the Minnesota Historical Society and will insure a positive partnership with MHS for future shared programs.

This position could be hired as a mobility assignment with the proper approvals from the applicant's current employer.  Salary and benefits are negotiable based on experience and talent.  Details about specific job responsibilities are listed on the Coordinating Librarian Task List.

Further information can be obtained from Mark Ranum either via email or by calling 612.701.9989.  Applications consisting of a cover letter and résumé should be sent to:
Mark Ranum
P.O. Box 50599
Minneapolis, MN 55405
 
Applications will be considered immediately upon receipt.  Start date is as soon as possible upon acceptance of a job offer.

December 4, 2009 -- The Minnesota Digital Library (MDL) is still accepting applications for digitization projects for Phase 6 of Minnesota Reflections. Application materials are available online at the MDL website.

MDL reports having received 17 applications so far this year and being well on their way to digitizing those collections to bring them into Minnesota Reflections. It is estimated, these first projects will spend approximately 66% of current funding.

MDL has funds for additional projects, but interested libraries need to apply soon, so that new applications can be reviewed quickly and, if approved, MDL can commit the funds for those projects.

Remember, the MDL deadline for applications is Mach 26, 2010, or once MDL has committed all of digitizing dollars, which ever comes first.

For more information contact:

Marian Rengel, Outreach Coordinator
Minnesota Digital Library Coalition
Learning Resources & Technology Services
Miller Center B41-9
St. Cloud State University
720 Fourth Avenue South
St. Cloud, MN 56301-4498
Office (320) 308-5625
Fax (320) 308-4778 (shared)

November 30, 2009 -- Traverse des Sioux Library System ( TdS) will follow-up the Library Legacy Programs and Arts Partnerships workshop with complementary regional workshops around the nine-county south central area.  These TdS sponsored sessions will focus on developing programs and applying for grants from the Minnesota Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund (ACHF).  

TdS has scheduled four workshops and reserves the right to organize more if warranted.  The target audience for these sessions is both library personnel from the TdS region and individuals or representatives of organizations hoping to partner with libraries in obtaining ACHF grants.  The workshops will focus on how to complete the applications, funding processes and restrictions, an orientation on outcomes and evaluation, and some time for idea generation and refinement.

Times and locations for the workshops are as follows:

• Wednesday, November 18, 3:00 - 5:00, Blue Earth Community Library
• Wednesday, December 2, 10:00 - 12:00, St. Peter Public Library
• Thursday, December 3, 10:00 - 12:00, St. James Library
• Monday, December 7, 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm, Waseca - LeSueur Regional Library, Waseca

Interested individuals need only attend one workshop (but may attend more if they wish.) Please register for these workshops through the calendar on the TdS website.  TdS encourages library staff and community partners to attend.  Spread the word!  For more information contact:

Dayle Zelenka
(507) 625-6169 x28

The Library Legacy Programs and Arts Partnerships workshop was sponsored by CRPLSA, presented by Leah Hughes from the Minnetonka Center for the Arts and presented in 12 locations around Minnesota.

November 30, 2009 -- The Minnesota Digital Library (MDL) has issued a Request for Qualifications from companies and organizations capable of providing digitization services to organizations with historical collections. The RFQ is available at the Minnesota Digital Library Web site.

MDL invites all companies and organizations interested in providing digitization services to respond to this RFQ.  Those interested should download the .pdf document, carefully read over the requirements and submit information in the format requested in the RFQ.  MDL will accept responses at any time.  MDL will post Information it obtains from this RFQ on the "Digitizing & Metadata" tab at the MDL Web site.

The MDL is looking only for qualifications. Organizations with collections to digitize may consult this list, once it is available, to learn of vendors. It is up the the organizations seeking services to obtain information on the cost of services.  Organizations seeking to do their own digitization work should consult the RFQ for information on MDL best practices and standards.

The Minnesota Digital Library is working closely with the Minnesota Historical Society to support digital conversion and access projects under the Minnesota Historical and Cultural Grants, also known as legacy grants. Information the MDL obtains from the RFQ will help contributing organizations choose vendors to do the digitization work.

Please send questions regarding this RFQ to:
Marian Rengel
MDL Outreach Coordinator
320-308-5625

(Information initially shared through Minitex email distribution service.)

November 25, 2009 -- Arrowhead Library System (ALS) created the ALS Legacy Committee, an ad hoc committee of the ALS Board that includes two ALS board members, two library personnel, one partner, three members of the public, and two ALS staff.  Key discussion points with the ALS Legacy Committee:

• What programs would they like to see provided in the region?
• What are the best ways of advertising the programs to reach the potential audiences and, if advertising is paid, how much of the budget should be spent on advertising?
• What are the potential outcomes of specific programs?

Key discussion points with possible partners has include:

• Whether the partner is willing to attend most meetings of the ALS Legacy Arts Committee?
• Can the partner provide suggestions and contact information for possible artisans in the region?
• Can the partner provide ideas for specific programs relevant to arts and culture heritage?

The ALS libraries have been asked:

• To provide ideas for types of programs they would like to have at their libraries.
• If they want to participate in specific programs.
• What community groups they want to work with to host the programs?

November 25, 2009 -- Southeastern Libraries Cooperating, SELCO, is conducting community conversations about the new Arts and Cultural Heritage Library Legacy funding.  These conversations will be held in all 11 southeastern counties in the SELCO region between November 18 and December 16. The purpose will be to gather information about what types of community partnerships are taking place and to generate new ideas about initiating partnerships with local organizations and community members.  To view the conversation flyer, please click here.

November 25, 2009 --  Northwest Regional Library held two Regional Legacy Advisory Committee meetings and hired a part-time Legacy Coordinator.  The Regional Legacy Advisory Committee consists of representatives from collaborative entities.  They've developed an outline of programs for Year 1, beginning with e-publishing seminars January through March 2010.  One of the jobs of the new coordinator will be to go out and talk to community representatives to help the NWRL Regional Legacy Advisory Committee develop current and future collaborative programs.

November 25, 2009 -- SELCO released its version of application materials for Arts and Cutural Heritage Library Legacy sponsorship.  Modeled on the applications and resources prepared by Traverse des Sioux and Plum Creek Library Systems, SELCO's materials include:

• FY 2010 Sponsorship Invitation and Introduction

• FY 2010 Art and Culture Live! and Community Collaboration Sponsorship Application--PDF

• FY 2010 Art and Culture Live! and Community Collaboration Sponsorship Application--Online

• FY 2010 Instructions and Frequently Asked Questions

November 25, 2009 -- Minnesota's Regional Libraries will support programs and exhibits at local libraries and community events with Arts and Cultural Heritage Library Legacy Funds.  With a goal of providing a wide range of art, drama, music and other performances, the programs and exhibits may be seen by anyone visiting a library.  CRPLSA drafted a sample Performance and Exhibit Policyidentifing the library's aim in supporting arts and cultural events and providing a means for individuals to request reconsideration of a program or exhibit.  After a quick review with several library directors, it appears not many libraries have such a policy.  Libraries around the state are encouraged to review this document and add it to the collection of local library policies.  While libraries have been hosting programs, speakers, and exhibits for years, the Legacy funded events may receive addition scrutiny and this policy may provide a small measure of protection should someone feel that an event was not the best use tax funds.

Sample Performance and Exhibit Policy for Minnesota libraries (MS Word version for editing)

November 24, 2009 -- Minnesota's Greatest Generation - the people who grew up during the Depression, came of age during World War II, and participated in the post-war Boom - created a lasting legacy that has shaped all of us who have come after.  The Minnesota's Greatest Generation (MGG) Projectpreserves their legacy and makes it accessible through an exhibit at the Minnesota History Center, films, workshops, public programs and a website.

In an exciting new Arts and Cultural Heritage Legacy partnership, the Minnesota Historical Society (MHS) and Minnesota's Regional Library Systems (CRPLSA) will continue the work of the Minnesota's Greatest Generation Project, focusing on three key goals.

• Documenting and preserving stories
• Educating people of all ages about the history of the Greatest Generation
• Bringing generations together to create community histories that will be shared with a broad audience through art, film, exhibits and other media.

The goals of this new MHS - CRPLSA statewide project range from quick, easy and inexpensive to slow, hard and expensive!  During Fiscal Year 2010, MHS and CRPLSA will work together to create a three-tiered experience.

Tier One:  All libraries in the regional system may choose to participate where libraries can host:

• Public programs to educate people of all ages about MGG
• Oral history workshops
• Classes on how to Share Your Story
• MGG Family Days using the MHS - MGG family day template and art activities.

Tier Two:  Many libraries in the regional system can:

• Host preservation workshops offered by MHS conservators
• Develop workshops on how to preserve family stories through film or other media, as well as work with other creative partners.

Tier Three:  Selected libraries throughout the state will participate with MHS to implement high-impact inter-generational programs that yield tangible products documenting community history.

November 24, 2009 -- OCLC's CONTENTdm Digital Collection Management Software can make digital collections available to everyone, everywhere. No matter the format — local history archives, newspapers, books, maps, slide libraries or audio/video — CONTENTdm can handle the storage, management, and delivery of your collections to users across the Web.
As a FirstSearch Base Package subscriber, many libraries in the Minitex region are eligible to receive:

• The CONTENTdm software hosted by OCLC
• Three Project Clients for building digital collections
• 10GB of storage for up to 3,000 digital items

If a library's requirements exceed any of these limits, OCLC will work with the site to review purchasing options to continue seamless growth of local collections.  OCLC has created training modules and provided resource information and the form to activate a CONTENTdm "quick start" hosted session.  Library staff can attend a free orientation using a desktop browser.

-- excerpt from Minitex Report, July - September 2009 prepared by Bill DeJohn, MinitexDirector

November 10, 2009 -- Each regional library, in addition to working on statewide endeavors, has been planning a regional approach to the Arts and Cultural Heritage Library Legacy funds.  Traverse des Sioux Library System (TdS) just announced the availability of ACHF funds through an application process for libraries and their partners.  Within TdS, the first deadline and review will be November 30, 2009 and their pplications will be reviewed monthly with a final application deadline of May 30, 2010. 

The forms created for the Traverse des Sioux library grant program will be used as a template and adapted by other regional libraries around Minnesota.  The TdS application materials include:

Introductory letter from Traverse des Sioux Library System Director, Dayle Zelenka

TdS Instructions for the Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund (ACHF) grant application for FY 2010.

TdS Application Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund (ACHF)

TdS is also providing electronic versions of the application and instructions.

Plum Creek Library System is also offering Arts and Cultural Heritage support through an application process.  As other regional initiatives are created and announced, information will be shared on this website.

November 4, 2009 -- The CRPLSA Common Practices Working Group crafted a contract template for use by the regional libraries as they book arts and cultural heritage events within their regions or for statewide endeavors with various artists, performers, and/or organizations providing exhibits.  A sample voucher is also available and a web form will be released at a later date.

October 26, 2009 -- Limited seating remains at four sessions of the popular grants workshops being offered by the Minnesota Historical Society.  Learn about the Minnesota Historical and Cultural Grants and have the opportunity to discuss grant proposals with your colleagues and with MHS staff. Bring your project ideas, specifications, and a flash drive.  Pre-registration is recommended for these sessions.  Send your information no later than three working days prior to the session of your choice.

October 27, Chisholm: Minnesota Discovery Center (formerly Ironworld) 9 a.m.

November 2, Pipestone: Pipestone County Courthouse, 9 a.m.

November 6, Brainerd: Brainerd Public Library, 1 p.m.

November 9, Litchfield: Litchfield Public Library, 10 a.m.

October 23, 2009 --The  Minnesota Historical Society, the Minnesota State Arts Board and the Minnesota Humanities Center will host a series of listening sessions around the state to obtain public input for a 10-year plan and 25-year framework for the use of funds made available through the Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund. Plan to attend one of the following public meetings and offer your input.

October 27 at the Minnesota Discovery Center, Highway 169, Chisholm

October 29 at the Fergus Falls Center for the Arts, 124 W. Lincoln Ave.

November 16 at the Rochester Community and Technical College, Heinz Center, 851 30th Ave. S.E.

November 17 in the Twin Cities TBA

November 18 in Marshall TBA

All sessions will take place from 5 to 7 p.m. Registration is recommended.

October 23, 2009 -- The Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund (ACHF) Planning Committee was designated by the Legislature during the 2009 session to craft a 10-year plan and a 25-year framework for the money available through the Arts and Cultural Heritage fund.  The newly appointed ACHF includes representatives from the three anchor organizations, the Minnesota Historical Society, the Minnesota State Arts Board and the Minnesota Humanities Center and 10 other history, arts and cultural organizations and libraries.  The 13-member committee was chosen from a field of 50 applicants nominated by their peers. The members are:

• Peggy Adelman, chief financial officer, Minnesota Zoo, Apple Valley
• Jennifer Bloom, executive director, Learning, Law and Democracy Foundation, St. Paul
• Michael Garcia, president and CEO, Duluth Children's Museum
• Allen Harmon, president and general manager, Duluth-Superior Area Educational Television
• Andrea Kajer, deputy director, Minnesota Historical Society
• Patricia Mulso, executive director, Freeborn County Historical Society, Albert Lea
• Jeff Nelson, public strategy managing director,Minnesota Public Radio, St. Paul
• David O'Fallon, president and CEO, MacPhail Center for Music, Minneapolis
• Rebecca Lynn Petersen, executive director, Fergus Falls Center for the Arts
• Brenda Raney, director of government relations, Science Museum of Minnesota, St. Paul
• Mark Ranum, director, Plum Creek Library System, Worthington
• Stanley Romanstein, executive director, Minnesota Humanities Center
• Pam Perri Weaver, board member, Minnesota State Arts Board

October 8, 2009 -- Mark Ranum, Director of the Plum Creek Library System, was appointed to the newly formed Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund (ACHF) Planning Committee representing the state library community.  The ACHF Planning Committee was designated by the Legislature during the 2009 session to craft a 10 year plan and a 25 year framework for the money available through the Arts and Cultural Heritage fund. This is a joint appointment by Minnesota Historical Society, the Minnesota State Arts Board, and the Minnesota Humanities Commission.  To review a copy of the letter of appointment, click here.

Mark has been involved in the development and implementation of the Library Legacy activities.  He currently serves as the Minnesota Library Association Legislative Chair and, in that capacity, advocated for library inclusion in the Legacy allocation.  He chaired the Legacy Funding Advisory and Discussion Group, an ad hoc group that was comprised of statewide representation and produced recommendations focused on Library Legacy activities.

October 6, 2009 -- The Council of Regional Public Library System Administrators will present a workshop entitled Library Legacy Programs and Arts Partnerships at 12 locations around the state.  The workshop will focus on how to create and maintain successful partnerships and programs using Arts and Cultural Heritage Library Legacy funds.  Leah Hughes, Children and Youth Program Director at the Minnetonka Center for the Arts, will share her knowledge on how library programs focusing on the major arts affect the learning process and will provide positive outcomes for this important grant initiative.  The workshop will be held from 9:30 to 12:30 p.m. at various locations.

This workshop should be a high priority for anyone hoping to participate in Arts and Cultural Heritage Library Legacy activities, programs and partnerships with the Arts community.  To register for a session nearest you or one that meets your calendar, please register with the local contact as named in the list below.  Your email to the site contact should include:

• Your name
• The name of your library or arts organization affiliation
• Email address
• Any special accomodation you may need.

Pre-registration is required for the workshops.  Send your information to the site contact no later than three working days prior to the session of your choice. 

For more information and the workshop agenda, please see the attached flyer.  Feel free to share this information with library staff and any Arts community partners with whom you will be cooperating. 

Hope to see you at Library Legacy Programs and Arts Partnerships workshop.  All sessions are 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.  For a copy of the workshop flyer, click here.

Dates, Locations and Site Contact for Registration

10/26 - Arrowhead Library System, 5528 Emerald Avenue, Mountain Iron, MN  55768, Rebecca Patton

10/27 - Detroit Lakes Community & Cultural Center, 826 Summit Ave., Detroit Lakes, MN  56501, Liz Lynch

10/28 - Bemidji Public Library, 509 America Avenue, Bemidji, MN 56601, Marian Ridge

11/2 - Willmar Health and Human Services Building, 2200 23rd St. NW, Willmar, MN 56201, Laurie Ortega

11/3 - Slayton Regional Development Center, 2401 Broadway, Slayton, MN 56172, Chris Lang

11/4 - Traverse des Sioux Office, 1400 Madison Avenue, Suite 622, Mankato, MN 56001, Patty Biesterfeld

11/9 - St. Cloud Public Library, 1300 West St. Germain Street, St. Cloud, MN 56301, Elizabeth Proell

11/10 - Maplewood Public Library, 3025 Southlawn Avenue, Maplewood, MN 55109, Chris Olson

11/12 - SELCO Headquarters, 2600 19th Street NW, Rochester, MN  55901, Mollie Pherson

11/13 - Ridgedale Library, 12601 Ridgedale Drive, Minnetonka, MN 55305, Chris Olson

11/18 - Giese Memorial Library, 26855 Forest Blvd., Wyoming, MN 55092, Nick Dimassis

11/19 - Bigwood Event Center, 925 Western Avenue, Fergus Falls, MN 56537, Peg Werner