Where's our sugar daddy?

We're nearing the end of a fiscal year here in the library. While money always figures somewhat prominently in acquisitions (we order, receive and pay for books and other materials), it looms large during this time of year. Or, rather, its absence looms large. Being in acquisitions, I'm just a spending agent, with growing (over my short career) yet mostly advisory influence over policies that govern how the money gets spent. That's Collection Development's job. Still, I fantasize about winning the lottery (even though I don't buy tickets), and after taking care of all of our needs (debt, house, family), kicking some out to fuel materials budgets at my alma maters and current institution. Maybe I should start buying those tickets.

So, my work brain is focussed on money management, not just for materials, but also for staff: how to arrange things so we get the best work in the most effective way possible (and diversifying over an increasing number of assignments), and also keeping staff morale up. Today is a staff appreciation day, with a big campus-sponsored luncheon. It doesn't pay rent, but it's something....