FOR LIBRARIANS: Calendar/ Training

FEBRUARY-MARCH 2008 2007
January
February
March
April
May
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July
August
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December
February 15 through March 30:
Retailing Methods and Techniques for Libraries
By Kerry McGeath

Course Description:
One problem that libraries have is recognizing that they provide a product. Retailers that are successful realize what their product is and they maximize sales as a result. In the private sector, organizations that are confused about that quintessential element – the product – never stay in business long. A narrow definition of what the organization does is essential to survival.

Libraries need to realize that the same principles hold true with the products we provide. If we are not satisfying a latent demand or creating demand for a product then our relevance and, thus, our ability to generate funding wanes.

Dates: February 15 - March 30.

Students completing this course will be able to:
  • Identify and describe the similarities between running a library and a retail operation
  • Define a product and, more specifically, a library product
  • Understand the basics of resource allocation related to library products by utilizing the PAR (Plan, Act and Review) method
  • Use sales techniques to enhance library service and customer satisfaction
  • Utilize methods to measure output and productivity to set predictors of future behavior and accountability in order to control revenue, spending and essential processes
Credit/Certification:
This is a Web-based course approved for certification under the Western Council of State Libraries. The instructor will not meet with the class in person.

This course is worth 3 contact hours. Certificates are available from the University of North Texas. Students must complete all tests and the course evaluation. At the end of the course, students will have the option to print a certificate. The University of North Texas will not mail certificates.

Register from January 28 – February 8
Register online from this link: www.leadonline.info/lead_registration_form.cfm.

Enter the course code SDLRMT – complete the registration. Once you have submitted your registration, you will be able to print out a confirmation with your user ID and password logon to access the course. You will receive a second copy by e-mail.

Course Structure: The course is a web-based course designed to take about 1 1/2 hours to complete. It contains multimedia elements, external links, pre- and post-tests, and course evaluation modules.

A LE@D course developed by the University of North Texas and provided by the South Dakota State Library with LSTA funds.

Course Moderator:
Colleen Kirby, Continuing Education Coordinator
South Dakota State Library
800 Governors Drive
Pierre, SD 57501
1-605-773-3131 or toll free 1-800-423-6665 (SD only)
Colleen.Kirby@state.sd.us