In over my head???

Current mood: Trepidatious
Category: Jobs, Work, Careers

I've been given a couple of challenging opportunities in Second Life recently. This week I met with Saryn Fanwood, who is my contact person at the "Eye4You Alliance" Island in Teen Second Life (TSL). (This Island is co-sponsored by the Alliance Library System in East Peoria, Illinois, and The Public Library of Charlotte & Mecklenburg County, in North Carolina.) The reason I've become involved with TSL is to try and reach the High School students in my library's community, who generally don't come into the library. The idea is to try reaching them where they spend time, which is often on the computer. One programming idea I had is to do a book discussion group. The teens could participate from their homes, and not have to come to the physical library building. They would be able to discuss the books via live chat, and exchange their thoughts with the others in the group. In order to draw attention to this online programming in TSL, I've posted a blog on the library's website explaining what TSL is, how they can sign up for accounts, etc. Cross your fingers that they even go to the library's website and see my post….

The other exciting news is that a couple of the bigwig librarians at the Second Life Library have asked me to manage the library's café on Book Island. My first thought was: it's a virtual environment, so it doesn't need cleaning up, no real coffee to make, etc., so what on earth will I be doing? But the position is a lot more interesting (and scary!) than I had thought. I am in charge of setting up regular programming and events for the "Library Cat Café and Bar," and to publicize these events as well. I met with a couple of the library folk the other day, and then with the owner of the café, to discuss my plans for the space. Daunting, to say the least. Of course there will be book discussions. Perhaps author talks? And someone mentioned "Happy Hour" activities. But frankly, I'm clueless. I mean, I have ideas, but am still figuring out how to implement them. I'm exhilarated and terrified at the same time. And it's all my baby, so if I fall flat on my face, it's my failure. But, if it succeeds…well, I won't get ahead of myself. But let's just say that all this looks great on my resume. I'll keep you posted on how I do. Please send me positive vibes to help me along.