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The Wednesday Word: Library News from Around Indiana

In This Issue

  • 107 Indiana Libraries to Unveil New AWE Computers

  • State Library Introduces Upgraded Website Service

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107 Indiana Libraries to Unveil New AWE Computers

Early Literacy ComputersCongratulations to the 107 Indiana libraries that took advantage of the multi-state group special for both the Early Literacy Station™ and AfterSchool Edge™. These libraries also received an additional $499 per unit subsidy from the Indiana State Library, which brought the net cost down to just $2,000 per unit.

The Early Literacy Station™ (ELS) is a dynamic all-in-one digital learning solution for early learners, ages 2-8. It is available in English and Bilingual Spanish. The AfterSchool Edge™ is designed for students 6-12 years old. The educational programs, which are correlated to Common Core and state standards, span all seven curricular areas. The educational titles are pre-loaded on the computer as part of a complete solution that features engaging graphics, intuitive menus, usage tracking, and administrative functions. No Internet connection is required to use either of these products.

Two Days Left to Apply for Rockstar Librarian Minigrant
The Indiana State Library is offering a competitive minigrant for Rock Star Startup Kits to public libraries in Indiana. The purpose of these kits is to encourage instrument use in library storytimes by the children's librarian. These are not instruments to be given to children, but rather to be used and owned by the recipient libraries. Applications for guitar kits must be received by 5:00 PM on November 15th. 

Click here for more information about these initiatives and others designed for librarians serving young patrons.


State Library Introduces Upgraded Website Service

Connect InThe Indiana State Library is now offering an enanced website development and content management solution. Connect IN provides free high-quality and functional websites to public libraries without a current online presence and those having difficulty maintaining their existing site. The program includes many features that will make maintaining a website simple and painless, and the State Library will provide an initial template, training, and assistance.

Connect IN is a simple and cost-effective solution to meet public library standards and offer your community innovative and practical online library services. Services provided via this program include:

  • Modern and High-quality Website Featuring:
  • An easy-to-use content management system (CMS) based on WordPress that allows you to manage and update your website AND easily create new web pages and online features.
  • Web editing software as simple as using a word processor.
  • Seamless and instant publishing to the Web allows you to make instantaneous changes to your website. 
  • Dozens of customizable templates to help you get the exact design that reflects your library and community.
  • Technical support and training - Including a help desk feature, support blog and localized training from PDO Regional Coordinators.
  • Hands-on content management system (CMS) training.
  • Free website hosting – The State Library is contracting with IT experts to handle the complicated back end tasks and save you time and money.
  • Free email for library staff - Including up to 20 email accounts for your library (i.e. yourname@yourlibrary.lib.in.us) with storage capacity that meets industry standards and is Microsoft Outlook compatible.

Contact the Professional Development Office or your Regional Coordinator if you are interested in joining Connect IN or would like more information about the program.

Digital Inclusion Survey Deadline Extended

Library directors across Indiana are encouraged to take part in a national survey on Digital Inclusion through November 22. This study explores the digital inclusion roles of public libraries. Your participation will help provide Indiana libraries with accurate demographics about the areas they serve.


Upcoming Workshops
& Important Dates

Fall Institutional Libraries Workshop
When: November 18 @ 8:30 AM
Where: Indiana State Library

Bookkeeping/Annual Report Workshop
When: November 19 @ 10:00 AM
Where: Indiana State Library & Online

Storytime for Children with Disabilities
When: December 16 @ 9:30 AM
Where: Vigo Co. Public Library

Every Child Ready 2 Read - 2nd Edition
When: Dec. 18 @ 9:00 AM
Where: Hancock Co. Public Library (Greenfield)

PLA Conference
When: March 11 -15, 2014
Where: Indiana Convention Center - Downtown Indy

Discovery to Delivery V: Better Together
When: Apr. 25, 2014 @ 9:00 AM
Where: Indianapolis Public Library
- Central


View free LEU
opportunities from:

LYRASIS Product Discounts
WebJunction Indiana


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Indiana State Library, 315 W. Ohio Street, Indianapolis, IN 46202. www.library.IN.gov

The Wednesday Word is a free publication of the Indiana State Library. Past issues are archived at the State Library's Newsroom.

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