The South Carolina State Library is pleased to announce that Niche Academy training is now available to all public, academic, and school library staff members in South Carolina. Niche Academy helps libraries deliver “experiences of delight” for their customers. The Academy provides online tutorials that educate library staff members about library resources and how to use them. These tutorials also help library staff members become more confident and effective in the day to day operations of the library.

The South Carolina Digital State Documents Depository provides access to publications produced by state agencies and state-supported academic institutions. These publications provide citizens with crucial information about state government, including statistics, annual accountability reports, and data on a wide variety of topics related to the state.

Debbie Allen said “But out of limitations, comes creativity.” In mid-March when the Coronavirus pandemic was making its way through the country, South Carolina’s libraries began discussions on how to keep their doors open to serve the public. However, it became clear that the library doors were closing fast as the state mandated many communities with sheltering in place.

The South Carolina State Library has made sample signage available for libraries to download and print to use in libraries upon reopening. For more information about COVID-19 library communications, please visit this online resource.

Congratulations to Inclusive Services Consultant Caroline Smith for being named a 2020 Mover and Shaker by Library Journal. The high honor recognizes those who transform their community through innovative approaches to literacy, learning, and teaching. Smith is dedicated to improving service to underserved populations.

Last month, I wrote about leadership during the pandemic, feelings of anxiety during this period of stress, and the need to balance ourselves and support each other. Those feelings of anxiety and stress have been amplified in the last week. This month, I intend to write about what libraries can do to promote change in their communities.