American Library Association prohibits harassment

On the website for its Midwinter Meeting and Exhibits in January 2014, the American Library Association displays a Statement of Appropriate Conduct at ALA Conferences.

As a survivor of childhood peer abuse who frequently blogs about bullying, I applaud the ALA for adopting an anti-harassment policy. And while it’s not a perfect document, I disagree with Will Manley, an American Libraries columnist who argued on his blog that the policy could “have a chilling effect on intellectual freedom.”

Library referenda: successful campaigns analyzed

A successful library referendum campaign identifies three things, according to Kathy Rosa, writing for American Libraries: the amount of money needed, how long the tax will last and a justification that resonates with the community. Among these, the “overarching challenge” is to build trust and establish compelling need.

It’s a timely article, given Jackson County libraries’ urgent need for funds.

Knitting socks in 2014

A book by Ann Budd, Getting Started Knitting Socks, and a gift card from The Web-sters, a yarn store in downtown Ashland, have me set to embark on new projects in Year 2014. First up: worsted-weight washable wool on double-pointed needles.

Ashland library ‘Crafternoon’: Repurposing old jeans

Image credit: Ashland Teen Library Fans on Facebook

The next Teen Crafternoon at Ashland Public Library promises to be a lot of fun, at least from the perspective of this avid upcycler who enjoys repurposing old clothes. From noon to 2:30 p.m. Saturday, teens will be invited to create things from recycled jeans. Photos on Facebook suggest exciting possibilities: bracelets, wristers, a diary/book cover and beanbags or hacky sacks.

New Year’s resolutions for autism community

At About.com: Autism Spectrum Disorders, Lisa Jo Rudy has compiled “New Year’s Resolutions for Members of the Autism Community.” As she accurately observes,

“People with autism are radically different from one another, and members of the ‘autism community,’ whether caregivers or people on the spectrum, have very different points of view about almost everything.”

Rudy offers these resolutions to help heal bitter differences between factions in “the autism community.” They’re worthwhile reading as we begin a new year.