RA Links Round Up

It's been a while since the last time I gathered up the links that have been gathering dust in my "drafts" folder. So here a round up of what has caught my eye in the last few weeks.

• The Chicago Tribune ran an article this week entitled, "Self-serve Libraries Hitting the Suburbs."  It quoted Jeannie Dilger-Hill, the Director of my local library, and drew attention to some of the issues we have been discussing in our Board meetings for the last year or so.
• The people behind the wonderful family of websites under the BookReporter Banner have started another useful and niche filling site, 20 Something Reads with the tag line-- "A time to re-discover reading for pleasure--and FINALLY-- read what you want."  I love the idea of capturing the generation who grew up addicted to Harry Potter and reminding them that now that they are adults, there are still some great reading options out there.  I will be following them.  I already am a loyal user and follower of GraphicNovelReporter and Reading Group Guides.  The BookReporter Network's track record is impeccable.
• Speaking of Graphic Novels, I read this essay about creating sound effects in comic books.  It is interesting, but wasn't worth a full post.  I was pointed to the link by by feed to The Book Bench.
• Over on Shelf Renewal they have also reminded me of one of my favorite sources of YA information, with their Web Crush this week-- Librarian in the Middle.  As they succintly put it, "this blog is a great way for RA generalists to keep a foot in the YA world."
• My friend and colleague, Joyce Saricks, has proudly proclaimed as one of her 2012 resolutions that she will finally read Ulysses by James Joyce.  Good for her.  I think I would rather take this route though.
• Speaking of Joyce, in her most recent column in Booklist, she writes about the importance of networking, and while we are networking, she reminds us to share the books we are reading with one and other.  This is an important reminder, especially as many of us get ready to gather at the PLA Conference next week. She is asking all attendees to stop by the Booklist Booth (#431) and leave our busniess card with some of your favorite books on the back.  And then for those not able to attend the conference, look to the Booklist Blog, Likely Stories for information on how you can add to the conversation.
• Also last night the National Book Critics Circle Awards were annouced here. And can you tell how not excited I am by this list since I put it last in the round up.

Have a nice weekend.