‘What is our strategy? We do not have a strategy. But the information flow in the blogosphere has its own Way. The Way is our strategy: personal, fast, connected and networked.’ The quote comes from this article about blogging in China, but maybe, just maybe, could also be used to apply to libraries? If not now, then in the future.
Author: jessamyn
no bookshelves, no problem
How to build with books. Not for the faint of heart. [mefi]
library law blog
Speaking of libraries and politics — as I will be in Australia real soon — some of our favorite legal librarians are working together on a Library Law Blog. Really engaging Q&A format for some posts, just raw information in others. Thick with good information, or, as they say “Not legal advice – just a dangerous mix of thoughts and information.”
how to manage smart people, not rocket science
Not quite on-topic but definitely an article I wish every boss I ever worked with had read: How to manage smart people.
The following phrase is one of my favorite tools as a manager: “What do you need from me in order to kick ass on this project?” Asking this question of a report invariably scares the shit out of them. It’s a cut to the chase, where you, as manager, lay out on the table the magic wish list of possibilities, and asks them to put their cards on the table. If a good discussion ensues, you then have the opportunity to actually deliver some of the things they might need. All the pet complaints they’ve been harboring have a chance to surface, and perhaps, simply fade away in the face of your brutal honesty and openness as a manager.
what is with this filter anyhow?
I’ve been reading more writing by Australian librarians lately which, of course, I should have been doing all this time. Jennifer Cram writes great stuff, my favorite so far is Ten Questions to Ask About Filtering Software. Sharp questions deserving of serious answers for anyone who is considering filtering.