Wednesday, September 23, 2009

Our New Automation System

Some patrons have asked us what we will be doing while the Library is closed October 1-6. A couple have even expressed great relief that we’re getting a new air conditioning unit! No, we’re not installing new air conditioning, although we are hopeful that will happen in the not too distant future. What we are installing is a new cataloging system. Our cataloging system keeps track of all the items in the Library, all our patron records, and what fees are owed. This represents a very large amount of data, and it will take several days to transfer all of it over into the new computer system.

During the change over, Library staff will be busy, even though we will not be checking items in or out. We will be training on the new system, and catching up on other projects in the Library.

Although there won’t be obvious differences in routine check ins and check outs, there will be many improvements in convenience for patrons. One big change is that patrons will be able to change their pin number and update other information in their own record. Also, patrons will have the option to keep a record of books they have read. Searching the system on a specific subject will be more convenient, also.

The Library’s goal in making this change is improved service to our patrons. We thank you for your patience and understanding as we move forward.

Wednesday, September 16, 2009

Attention All Library Criminals

Are you a library criminal? You are if you didn't return a library book, and you haven't been back in the library because you're afraid the fines are too high. Or if you have library books lying around your house that you never got around to returning.

Now's your big chance. We're offering unconditional amnesty for you. Any items returned between October 7 - 10 will be fine free! It doesn't matter when you checked them out - even if the book says it belongs to the Fiske Library (which was closed in 1967.)

Don't forget that your Library will be closed October 1 - 6, while our new automation system is installed. What's an automation system, you say? It's the computer software that keeps track of all our books and our patrons. If you check out a book today, it automatically figures out how long you can keep it and prints a receipt for you. If you're late returning that book, it sends you nice little reminders, and keeps track of your fines. It figures out how long you can stay on a library computer (so everyone has a chance to use it) and knows how much money you have in your account for printing. The software is very clever and costs bunches of money and will take several days to be installed. You'll get to see it at work after October 6, when you use our catalog in the Library or online from our website.

Tuesday, September 1, 2009

September is Library Card Sign Up Month

Do you have a library card? Do your children have a library card? September is Library Card Sign Up Month, and your Library wants to make sure that all the local residents have the smartest card of all – a library card. It is very easy to get, and it will be the smartest card in your wallet.

Library cards are FREE to residents of Adams and Wilkinson counties. You must present a picture ID and something with your home address, for example: a bill, letter, checkbook, etc. If you are nonresident there is a $10 annual fee.

A child must be at least 5 years old to get a library card. A parent or legal guardian must present picture ID, fill out the application, and sign for any child that is under 18 years of age.

The American Library Association and libraries across the country are encouraging residents to get the smartest card. The children can come to the library to get homework help, check out books, as well as playing games, checking out movies and audio books, and using the computers. The best part about this is that it is all FREE to children and parents with a library card. The library is one of the only places that has something FREE for everyone in your family.

Your Library provides a safe and quiet environment for learning and access to books for children, teens, and adults. We provide free story time on Wednesdays, 10:00- 10:30 am for the PreK and Kindergarten children. The library plays an important role in education and the development of children. Studies show that children who are read to and who use the library perform better in school and are more likely to continue to use the library as a source of lifetime learning.

Did you know a library card is the key to helping you live better for less? It’s all you need to get free books, movies, internet access, and much more. Bring your family to your Library and get your library cards today. You will be glad you did!