The Information Activist Librarian

In a recent Chronicle Blog Post 5 major universities endorse open access journals by signing a joint committement.  This is a huge step for OA.

Here are some great pics

From LJ I found out that over 500 librarians gathered to protest the cuts in funding for Michigan librarians and MEL. 

It is great news that “Vigorous advocacy by library supporters in Michigan has pushed Gov. Jennifer Granholm to modify her July 13 Executive Order with a directive prioritizing continued support and funding for the statewide library book and electronic material sharing programs, Michigan eLibrary (MeL) and Michigan eLibrary Catalog (MeLCat), as well as ensuring that a State Librarian position remains, even if the job is no longer a political appointment.” (LJ).

This is not a perfect victory, but a victory none-the-less.

Hundreds turned out for the Rally to save Michigan Libraries.  I am impressed, insipred and in general awe at how awesome librarians are.  I am so thankful the my Dean, Lee Van Orsdel, supported us going to the event.  I was also happy to see over 50 librarians from my local public library (Grand Rapids Public Library). 

The greatest thing about the rally was that we’ve been heard.  The governor has revised her Executive Order twice, and we will not have the major cuts like we thought.  Yes the Library of Michigan will be rolled under the Department of Education, but in my home state (Illinois) the library is under the Secretarty of State:(  So not to bad. 

Here are a few pics: