Wednesday, August 30, 2006

Please Comment!

Hi there! I'm not certain that anyone is watching this blog...so just a reminder that our next book session is September 20th at the State Library. I'll be posting a few questions in the next week or so. Please add your own questions or respond to my questions in the comments section.

Happy Reading!

Tuesday, August 08, 2006

Welcome To Authors & Ideas' New Home!


Welcome to our new home for Authors & Ideas. Authors & Ideas is a book discussion group for state employees interested in leadership and management reading in a supportive and fun environment. You can check here for our current reading, view discussion questions, and take part in the discussion even if you can't make it in person.

Yes, we will still meet at the California State Library the 3rd Wednesday of the month for our lunch hour discussion. You can check here to find the details about our discussion group and find our complete reading list.

New to Authors & Ideas? We started in October 2002 as a joint adventure with the State Library, facilitated by me, an independent management consultant/trainer who spends a GREAT deal of my time providing Supervision Training. Many of my participants had expressed an interest in a forum beyond their two week required training to connect with other managers and supervisors for continued learning and discussion. After a conversation with Librarian Vera Nicholas the group was kicked off. We've been meeting almost every month since then!

Need more information or have questions? Be sure to check the Frequently Asked Questions Post. Please email me or Vera Nicholas if you can't find your answer!

Monday, August 07, 2006

Fall 2006 Reading List & Dates

September 20th
Transitions: Making Sense of Life’s Changes
By William Bridges

October 18th
Driving Fear Out of the Workplace
By Ryan and Oestreich

November 15th
Turning to One Another: Simple Conversations to Restore Hope
By Margaret Wheatley

December Holiday Break

Tuesday, August 01, 2006

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Do I have to read the book to attend the group?
    No, you don't have to read the book, but the discussion is much better when you do! Some people listen to the book during their commute, it's up to you! Some start the book, but don't finish. We all understand that not everyone can read the book every time!
  2. Where can I find the book?
    All of the books we read are typically available at the California State Library, the Sacramento Public Library, Powells, Amazon, and many local bookstores.
  3. What is the cost?
    There is no cost to attend the group. Some attendees purchase the book, others check it out from a library, and many bring their lunch!
  4. Will I be put on the spot?
    Authors & Ideas is a comfortable setting. No one is ever put on the spot. We will ask you to introduce yourself to the group. After that you can sit back and just listen if you choose to.
  5. Do I have to be a manager or a trainer to attend?
    Nope. If you are a reader interested in joining a lively discussion Authors & Ideas is the right place for you! We do focus on the topics of management and leadership.