Automation survey evaluates LSTA dollars
Almost 60% of INFOhio's 2,300+ automated school libraries have benefited from funds provided by Library Services Technology Act (LSTA) programs administered by the State Library of Ohio. A comprehensive study recently completed by Greg Byerly summarizes effects of the program on Ohio school libraries, including many points that reinforce how automation enhances student access to information and the benefits of membership in an automation network. Byerly's report can help advocate for quality library media programs and encourages those not yet automated with INFOhio to join the network. Read more...

Next LSTA grant opportunity
The State Library of Ohio's Automation Grant program for FY08 is a restricted grant for eligible school library media centers to automate through INFOhio. INFOhio will be submitting the grant proposal. No individual school or district applications will be accepted.

School library media centers interested in automating should contact their Information Technology Center (ITC) immediately for eligibility requirements and be prepared to submit project checklists and a letter of intent to participate by December 18, 2007. Questions for INFOhio regarding the K-12 automation grant should be sent to central@infohio.org, 614-485-6731 or 877-463-6450. For general questions about the LSTA program, contact SLO's Missy Lodge, 614-644-6914 or 800-686-1532.

Preview 2008 cancelled
Theresa M. Fredericka, INFOhio Executive Director, has announced that INFOhio's Vendor Preview for 2008-2009 will not be held. There will be no online preview period during January, February and March of 2008. Read more...

2007 Durbin Award presented to Connie Carnicorn
Connie Carnicorn, Library Media Specialist for Fostoria Community Schools, has received the INFOhio Hugh Durbin Leadership Award for 2007. The award was presented during the awards luncheon at this year's OELMA conference in Dayton during October.

Those who nominated Carnicorn praised her efforts on behalf of students and staff members, especially her help integrating INFOhio's Core Collection of Electronic Resources in the curriculum. "She has shown students how to prepare for standardized tests, how to find primary research, artwork, important historical documents, magazine articles and countless other resources," wrote Catherine Bucher, English Department Curriculum Leader for Fostoria High School. Read other comments from her nominators and the presenter's remarks by clicking Read more... Congratulations, Connie!