President's Report
By Leslie Tirapelle, Pasadena City College & CCL President
Spring term is quickly coming to a close. Where did the time go? It’s interesting how the perception of time has changed during the pandemic – where it seems to pass slowly, yet in retrospect it’s somehow gone by so quickly. It will be quite an adjustment to return to work and offer in-person library services again. While each of our institutions has its unique circumstances, there are substantial similarities in our current experiences and trajectory.
Most of us are in the midst of a phased reopening, or planning a safe return to our libraries in the very near future. We’re remaining flexible, as we know we do not have all the answers, and making sure everyone has a voice in the process. We’re accepting of the fact that our plans and execution of those plans will not be being perfect, and are approaching the process with empathy -- giving ourselves, our colleagues and patrons the time and space they need to adjust, and offering willing and gracious support wherever we can.
It will likely be a stressful process, but together we are stronger. The CCC library community is here for you, so do not hesitate to ask for advice or help on the CCLibrarians-All mailing list. It is a safe space for all of us to get the support we need. Also, you don’t have to recreate the wheel. There are a lot of library re-opening plans and procedures out there, including ones shared by some of our own CCC libraries. With plans in place, we’ll all have better control over how things proceed and help keep us focused on the challenges we have ahead of us. PS - If you haven’t already, please do share your plans in the CCL repository.
In support of all of our efforts, CCL is hosting three upcoming professional development webinars focused on topics related to returning to campus and reopening libraries, e-reserves and community college library management. We hope you are able to participate in these events.
Pandemic Recovery
May 5 @ 11:00AM-12:30PM
Session will focus on topics related to returning to campus and reopening libraries.
E-reserves Post-Pandemic
May 12 @ 11:00AM-12:30PM
E-Reserve related services and platforms will be showcased.
*These are part of the regular Wednesday Webinar series. Amy Beadle will send access information prior to each event.
New Deans and Directors Roundtable/Library Management 101 Workshop
April 28 @ 11:00AM-12:30PM
This event is intended for library deans, directors, heads, and chairs who are new to their positions in the last two years, or will be entering a library leadership position in the upcoming academic year. A registration e-mail has been sent to all current library leaders. If you did not receive an email and fall into the targeted audience for this workshop, please e-mail me directly at latirapelle@pasadena.edu.
While there are still challenges ahead, things will eventually return to normal -- and possibly be better in many ways. In the meantime, know that the CCC library community is here to support you.
Please take care of yourself and those around you.
Leslie