Director Briefing - December 2, 2024

Trustee Education: 2024 FAQs with Ron Part II

This Wednesday will be the last Trustee Workshop of the year. If you'd like to attend, you can register here . Or, if you'd like me to cover something specific for boards, let me know.

The plan is to continue rolling out the Trustee Academy (Niche) to boards in 2025 as we populate it with recorded workshops.

System Memo: Peer-to-Peer File Sharing Blocked at all Member Libraries

Effective immediately, peer-to-peer (P2P) file sharing has been blocked at all OWWL member libraries. This action is in response to multiple OWWL libraries receiving Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA) takedown notices, and is necessary to ensure uninterrupted internet access for all library users.

What is P2P file sharing?

Peer-to-peer file sharing allows users to connect directly to each other's devices, often for sharing large files, including software, media (especially music and movies), and documents. Common P2P software includes BitTorrent, eMule, and LimeWire.

While file sharing itself is not inherently illegal, legal issues arise when P2P users share copyrighted materials, such as music or movies, without authorization. Downloading or uploading copyrighted material without permission is commonly referred to as "pirating."

Why blocking P2P file sharing is necessary

Recent court cases have found internet service providers (ISPs) liable for contributing to copyright infringement by refusing to terminate the accounts of internet users accused of piracy. As such, local ISPs, including Spectrum and FirstLight, are starting to issue warnings that customers with multiple DMCA violations will have their accounts permanently disconnected, without the option to reconnect. In short, the internet access would be cut off, and the library would need to find a different ISP.

Why this block applies to all OWWL member libraries

With many library visitors using public computers and the public Wi-Fi network daily, it is difficult (and often impossible) to identify specific individuals engaging in P2P file sharing. This is especially true because the file sharing could be happening on personal devices connected to the public Wi-Fi.

While OWWL has previously blocked P2P file sharing at individual libraries on a case-by-case basis, the rise in DMCA notices has led us to adopt a proactive approach by blocking P2P file sharing at all member libraries.

Next steps and guidance

If your library receives a DMCA takedown notice, please open a ticket right away.

We recommend discussing this change with your staff so that they can answer any questions from the public about the P2P file sharing block.

EAP Resource: Talkspace Go

For our EAP libraries, Talkspace Go is a free benefit for you and eligible family members aged 13+. The mobile app can be used to improve mental health and wellbeing. Get help for relationships, parenting, depression, and much more. Below are the December classes and information on how to get started.

TC-Getting-Started-Talkspace-Go.pdf

Talkspace Go Class Schedule-12.2024.pdf

HBR: Tip of the Day

Look Inward to Become a Better Communicator

Becoming a good presenter takes more than just improving your eye contact and body language. Truly impactful presenting requires real introspection. To develop a confident presence, consider starting with three areas of inner work.

Uncover hidden barriers. One effective way to boost your public-speaking confidence is to explore what might be quietly holding you back. Sometimes, underlying priorities or fears—like a desire to avoid vulnerability—can interfere with your presence. By identifying these hidden barriers, you can move past them and build lasting confidence.

Embrace a “portfolio of selves.” Everyone has a range of “selves” based on context. You can choose to embody a “confident self” or “mentor self” who believes in your own value and purpose. This shift can transform a timid presence into a powerful one, allowing you to connect more deeply with the audience.

Rewrite the internal story. Start by separating fact from fiction. If you’re worried about being misunderstood, for example, your instinct might be to tell yourself, “I speak too fast, and people won’t follow.” Instead, choose a more constructive story. Think, “I can slow down and check in with the audience to make sure they’re following.” This will help you feel more grounded and confident.

This tip is adapted from “To Become a Better Presenter, Look Inward,” by Deborah Grayson Riegel.