Town of Kittery, Maine’s Post

Check out this article written by my friend and colleague Jesse Hardman - let's shift the language we use to talk about news ecosystems and get to growing some robust, healthy information gardens!

CAN YOU CHECK OUT THIS RECIPE? NOW YOU CAN WITH ALICIA! Chef Alicia Shevetone (founder), and Librarian Dr. Nichole Beer (curator) of America's first cookbook lending library in Las Vegas (opening August 2), join me on “Talk About Las Vegas With Ira,” https://lnkd.in/gu7Wxr4H & all your favorite platforms, including #YouTube (https://lnkd.in/gzEWACpS). In this episode of “Talk About Las Vegas With Ira,” the dynamic duo talk about their new project, which will be based inside Palate Las Vegas, in downtown Las Vegas; how the books are curated (collection will be separated by geography); how they developed a circulation system; why they want to take this idea on the road; defining patron usage; how the lending library was certified by the American Library Association; why libraries and library collections are living organisms, which need to be tended to (weeding and planting to keep them alive); how this is a free resource for the community with a leap of faith; and why even though this is for the Las Vegas community, they want visitors to take back the idea to their hometowns. #cookbooks #lendinglibrary #chefs #recipes QUICK CLIP (Nichole on what the collection will feature):

Smart businesses transform to meet diverse consumer needs, and a recent example can be found in the evolution of libraries across North America. For instance, Placentia Library in California now offers sewing kits, tents, and popcorn machines, while Barrie Public Library in Ontario provides rentals such as ghost hunting kits, guitars, and fishing gear—an emerging trend known as the 'Library of Things,' reshaping community services. This innovative approach not only enhances the library experience but also demonstrates a profound understanding of consumer needs in today's sharing economy. It's a brilliant example of how businesses—whether traditional or contemporary—can adapt and thrive by embracing change and catering directly to the interests and demands of their communities. Have you checked out what your local library offers lately? Just google "Library of Things" and search for your local library. 🚀"

Our next bookclub discussion is less than a week away! The topic is rest and restoration (R&R), and some of the questions we hope to explore are — * What are some of the barriers to our own R&R? * How do we cultivate R&R with all the responsibilities of job, family, school, community, and activism? * What are the historical roots of overwork, and how can we imagine new systems that value and support R&R? * How do we prioritize R&R in our work spaces? We're choosing one of three books to help us answer these questions and integrate R&R into our lives.

Schoolyard Forest Design Lecture Series next week!! #schoolyardforest design!

🪵 We're curious who 'wood' try this idea on their project! 📚 We're sharing today idea #4 out of 45 creative ways to increase engagement in your community from our book 'Happy Neighbours.' 📥 For the complete collection of innovative ideas, download your digital copy of the book via the link in the comments below! --- #4 - Made of the Right Stuff Cutting down trees is often cause for resistance. People continue to object, even though it is now common to plant new trees to compensate. The reason for this, is that people often are emotionally attached to trees or because they simply disapprove of it for reasons of principle. There are occasions when it remains necessary to cut down trees and then you are faced with a dilemma. Luckily, for some local residents the pain can be eased by giving the wood a new life. You can turn it into wooden toys, benches, a natural playground, or bread boards. You can also personalise the wooden object. Apply a QR-code which refers to the history of the tree or add an image of the tree (if the object is large enough). There are many ways to give the wood back to the community.

"The most successful library services are often those that help the community meet its aspirations while also honoring the unique purpose of the library." In this WebJunction article, Dr. Audrey Barbakoff, EdD, MLIS, CEO of Co/Lab Capacity, shares tips on aligning community goals and the library’s scope. ⤵️ Click below to read more. --- #OCLC #PublicLibrary #PublicLibraries #AcademicLibrary #AcademicLibraries #Library #Libraries #Librarian #Librarians #LibraryLife #LibrarianLife #LibraryLove

Remember those days spent playing outdoors and camping with your family? Those moments weren’t just fun – they were filled with valuable lessons and unforgettable memories that connected us deeply with the environment.   But here’s the thing: not every child gets to experience those same adventures. Many kids around the world miss out on the simple joys of being outside. Some have never even seen the beach, despite living just minutes away. Can you believe it?   Naturalists share heartbreaking stories of children who’ve never witnessed fruit growing on trees, or high schoolers who can’t tell a cow from a horse. It’s a reality check that reminds us of the urgent need to reconnect kids with nature.   That’s where we come in at the Blue Swallow Farm Foundation. We’re on a mission to change that narrative by bringing enriching outdoor experiences in the heart of the school day. From building outdoor classrooms to crafting engaging curriculum resources, we’re all about giving kids the chance to learn, explore, and connect with nature.   And here’s where you come in: by joining our annual auction, you’re not just bidding on items – you’re investing in the well-being of children worldwide. With your support, we can continue working with educators across the country and beyond, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to thrive in the great outdoors. So, let’s make a difference together. Let’s create lasting memories, inspire a love for nature, and empower the next generation of environmental stewards. Thank you for being part of our mission!   Follow the link to learn to our online auction: https://lnkd.in/evfwdiWg   #OutdoorLearning #EducationResearch #CurriculumDesign #TeacherResources #ResearchCenter #NatureEducation #ExperientialLearning #OutdoorClassroom #STEMeducation #HandsOnLearning #OutdoorEducation #LearningOutdoors #NatureBasedLearning #EducationalResources  

Here is a great example of the value Govstack can bring to your local government staff. Never hurts when you work with a terrific team like Mt Vernon has with Mary Ellen, Nathan & Kendra. They Rock! #mtvernonIl; #citizenengagement; #localgovernment

This! This important & what my doctoral work is about: equitable access to the outdoors because all kids need it! Please consider filling out the form