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News Smart Talk Library funding, North Korea -- week-in-review -- Radio Smart Talk, Friday, June 26
News Smart Talk Library funding, North Korea -- week-in-review -- Radio Smart Talk, Friday, June 26
| Library funding, North Korea -- week-in-review -- Radio Smart Talk, Friday, June 26 |
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| Thursday, 25 June 2009 15:52 |
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Friday's week-in-review program includes discussion of the affect proposed state budget cuts could have on Pennsylvania's public libraries. Also, tensions were high this week as North Korea sent a ship steaming toward Hawaii that was suspected of carrying weapons. Media reports in Asia said the Koreans planned to fire a long-range missle toward Hawaii on July 4.
LISTEN TO THE SHOW
GUESTS Glenn Miller, Executive Director of the PA Library Association Bruce McDonlad, United States Institute of Peace Al Pulice & Christopher Bain, PA Hero Walk
Comments (14)
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written by Erika , June 26, 2009, 08:42:17 AM How do school libraries make a positive impact on students today, in the world of the Internet and the World Wide Web? report abuse
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written by Janelle , June 26, 2009, 09:16:01 AM Has anyone been in their local library lately? I was in our Lebanon library on Tuesday. The young children's storytime was FULL, approx. 50 children attended a free educational program presented by ZooAmerica. Standing room only...And as a regular weekly patron with my toddler, the computers and reading areas are occupied on any given day. You cannot tell me there isn't a need for local libraries. Circulation in our local library system is up by about 50%. I wish these new patrons would spend a few minutes writing to their representatives pleading for level funding. My son and I have been for weeks, because the popular children's programs will be the first things to go missing. If you don't think there is a need for public libraries, GO TO ONE, during the day during the week. You'll be surprised. report abuse
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written by Erika , June 26, 2009, 09:18:41 AM What are libraries doing to help out their communities in this difficult time? report abuse
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written by Bertina , June 26, 2009, 09:24:58 AM I was interested to hear your guest mention the summer reading program. We have always enjoyed having your children participate, but have noticed a big difference this year. Our library has no prize incentives this year due to monetary support, and everything is online. Not much interaction or incentive for kids. Participation is low this year. Wish this could be different. We love the library! We have six children and homeschool. Our kids in age range from 24-4, so we have many years to to enjoy children's programs. report abuse
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written by Janelle , June 26, 2009, 09:25:00 AM Erika, My library is helping me out tremendously in these difficult times. I have been able to read ten recently released books for FREE without paying upwards of 15 dollars per book. I have been able to watch several movies and documentaries without paying a membership fee. And if I so desire, I can surf the internet on a modern computer without paying for my own internet connection. Libraries are doing more for my community at this time than TARP! report abuse
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written by Bertina , June 26, 2009, 09:25:52 AM I should have said "our" children above. report abuse
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written by Cindy , June 26, 2009, 09:29:46 AM Libaries are invaluable for the many science and social study projects that my kids get. It's a resource for families that cut back on internet services. The libararies fill the void and need to be funded. report abuse
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written by Catherine , June 26, 2009, 09:31:12 AM The state government needs to improve funding for public libraries. They can generate revenue by selling the liquor stores. Government should not be in the retail business, and I believe that privatizing liquor sales will not necessarily mean underage sales or other abuses if proper controls are in place. Libraries and education need government support - not alcohol vendors. report abuse
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written by Erika , June 26, 2009, 09:32:05 AM Wonderful show! Thank you! report abuse
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written by Michael , June 26, 2009, 10:12:07 AM I feel this show was rather one sided in favor of library support. The library advocate (Glenn Miller) droned on without any attempt from moderator to rein him in a bit, in fact Mr Miiler went on so long that only one phone call was accepted. This call was was clearly set-up and was from another library funding advocate and a friend of Mr Miller. I would have one question for Mr Miller: considering we are in the worst financial crisis since the "30s" where would he suggest funding cuts be made if not to the organizations he represents? report abuse
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written by Janelle , June 26, 2009, 10:15:11 AM The segment was slated for 30 minutes, maybe 20 after local news and introductions. And what side was missing? In favor of crippling a public education resource? I don't quite understand that one. report abuse
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written by Michael , June 26, 2009, 11:02:27 AM The entire segment (regardless of time scheduled) was monopolized by Mr Miller and friend. The other side is that there has to be deep cuts across the board! Libraries or other state funded programs can not be sacred cows.What is the "crippling a public education resource" based on? The false choice method of defending funding is deceptive. The world sky will not fall. I again ask the question: were would you make the cuts that will HAVE to be made? report abuse
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written by Michael , June 26, 2009, 11:26:46 AM Where does the money come from that funds the "PA Library Association" ? State funds maybe? If libraries contribute money to the PA Library Association at the same time they receive state funds, as all money is fungible, some state money ends up going to the library association. Perhaps this money could be used to aid libraries? In this time of major financial deficits in State budgets ( almost 3 billion deficit projected in the upcoming State budget) everyone must contribute and be more innovative in securing funding. report abuse
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written by Lisa , August 27, 2009, 06:41:01 PM I believe PaLA is funded by individuals who pay dues in order to recieve newsletters and affordable continuing education opportunities-- you can find out more on thier website. Janelle, I'm glad you mentioned youth programs. Our small town had over 800 children involved in their summer reading challenge, over 50 of whom were teens that not only were involved in postive, educational programs, but also getting involved and volunteering in their community. Why do I think libraries are vital? They pool high-quality, well-organized resources for the public-- why should a few hundred people all buy the same book, DVD, wireless internet connection, etc when we can share them as a community, it is a good use of everyone's money, as well as a green choice (less consumer waste if we are sharing a few resources rather than buying individual ones). Computer age or not-- literacy is still the key to getting ahead in our society whether it be on paper or a screen. Libraries enable children to become better readers as they provide access to books at multiple reading levels for multiple areas of interest as well as activities to introduce fitting books and motivate children to read-- the summer reading challenge is a certainly plays a key role in this, and does help to prevent the loss of reading skills over summer months. Glen mentioned early childhood activities and our (again) small town library offers 9 weekly storytime programs and is the place for families to connect and spent quality, educational time in doors. Our library is an efficient user of funds, focused on life long learning, and the heart beat of our little town. report abuse
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