Spring 2013
Foundation
MADISON PUBLIC LIBRARY a quarterly newsletter from the Madison Public Library Foundation
FOUNDATION NEWS What’s a “Bubbler?” Your Way to Learn, Share, and Create No doubt most Wisconsinites have been asked that question a time or two. Now, Madison Public Library has redefined the term again as the name for its “makers” program. The Bubbler, debuting along with the new Central Library in September, will feature creators from all realms to share their knowledge – from artistic techniques to culinary expertise to self- publishing advice. “The idea is to help Madison’s creative energy bubble up to the surface, where people can access it,” said Library Director Greg Mickells. “It’s creating a platform to share knowledge – a very important function of any successful library.” The Bubbler was inspired by pop-up workshops at Bookless like screen and letterpress printing
Unlike most maker setups, the Bubbler isn’t a physical space. It’s a series of presenters that come and go in Central Library’s new programming spaces and extend out to the branches. “We won’t be tied to a single venue or specific technology,” said Bubbler Coordinator Trent Miller, “so the possibilities are endless. One week might feature audio recording, then beer brewing the next.”
What Do You Want to Learn? How to grow the perfect tomato? How to butcher a hog? How to publish an ebook? Interested in collaborating with the library to showcase your talents? Tell us at madisonbubbler@gmail.com.
Foundation Grants $15K for Existing Collections and Technology In December, the foundation approved new grant requests totalling $15,000 for digital and collection-based projects.
Computers for Mac Training To better assist patrons who use Apple computers, the foundation approved a $5,000 grant for four MacBook Air laptops to train librarians at all branches in Mac basics.
“These grants will help the library preserve its past while also embracing the future,” said Mickells. “It’s equally important that we cultivate our more traditional collections as we stay in tune with technological advancements.”
“Read to your Baby” Program The Youth Services department partners with area agencies to distribute toddler books and library card applications to new moms. $2,000 from the foundation will purchase 500 books for young families to encourage reading to young children.
Digitization of “Lost Madison” Exhibit Continuing a project started over a decade ago, the foundation awarded $3,000 for the digitization of historic photographs from the “Lost Madison” to create an online archive.
More materials for teens Young adult titles are in high demand these days, in part due to hits like The Hunger Games and Twilight. $5,000 from the foundation will add over 500 teen-specific items, reducing hold time and expanding the variety of materials available to this eager demographic.
According to a PEW Research study, “libraries are a large part of how readers ages 16-17 get their books, more so than older adults.”
Learn more about the $45,000 awarded by the foundation in 2012 at www.mplfoundation.org. These grants are made possible through generous donations to the Annual Fund. In addition to projects like these, 10% of the Annual Fund is reserved each year for the General Endowment to ensure the success of Madison Public Library for years to come.