January 2023 - Michlib-l

Adding open hours compiled
by Don Priest 17 Jan '23

17 Jan '23

Here are the responses I received to my inquiry regarding adding open hours of service to the library. Thanks to everyone who chimed in! Got some good ideas, and matters to consider if we pursue this. Original question: I am hoping to be able to add more open hours later this year; we are not open on Fridays, and I'd like to offer at least a few hours of service. Normally, we are open 10am - 9pm Monday through Thursday, then 10am - 5pm Saturdays. I don't think we'll be able to offer a full 7 hours like we do on Saturday, I want to start smaller with about 4 hours. I'm not sure when to put those hours, though, morning or afternoon? I'm sure someone will be displeased no matter what we do! I'd love to hear from libraries that are open for a short time any day of the week, and how you decided upon what hours to offer. I'm also interested in hearing from anyone that may have added hours like this recently, and how it has worked out, any changes you needed to make, etc. I'm not sure how to handle staffing, for instance; can I get by with our current staff, or does that spread us too thin the rest of the week? Lots to consider, I appreciate all input! Hi Don, >From a foot traffic perspective, Friday afternoons are always far busier than mornings, so I’d vote for a 1-5 pm simply because it seems to be when there is the largest concentration of patrons on most Fridays. Can't speak to the decision-making etc. as I had nothing to do with that, but we are open 1-5 on Sundays! Staff from each department is asked to pick up roughly 3 Sundays a quarter. We then receive the corresponding amount of hours off that we worked that Sunday on another day of the week. Librarians are allowed to choose to work 9-5 on Sundays rather than just 12-5, so we can have a whole day off if we want. We do offer some comp time rather than this rescheduling method, but I never do that so I can't speak to it lol. Staff is very bare bones, usually 3 librarians or reference assistants to cover our 3 ref desks, a manager, and two circ clerks. Librarians are on desk from 1-5 with a 20 minute break (the manager fills in the desks for these breaks). Picking 4 hours on a Friday is much more difficult though as many people have work or school! A patron survey might be a great idea to see what hours would work for the greatest number of people. We cut back our hours after we reopened after Covid. We are a class IV but a smaller library. Our current hours are M, W & Fri 10-6, Tues & Thurs 1-8 & Sat 10-4. Our foot traffic, computer use & circ have not gone back to preCovid figures so we’ll hang onto these hours for a while. If your staff would be too thin, could you hire subs for Fridays? Opening at the same time every day is helpful for patrons to remember. So I would suggest the morning hours. Hi Don: Not sure if this is much help, but-- Our main location is open 7 days-- M-Th 10-9, F & S 10-5, Sun 1-5. (I understand that grew out of a millage over 20 years ago, to extend our days/hours and keep them consistent year-around.) Here's more to your question-- For 15 of those years, we operated a microscopically small (1 10'x10' room) branch library in a rural township (until the owner lost the building to taxes and it was torn down) in the far north of our service area. Hours there were M & W, 3-7; Tues, Thur & Sat, 10-2; closed Friday. 10-2 was definitely busiest 10-2-- while the 3-7 hours seemed busier during the week, as folks stopped in on their way home from work. Things got pretty quiet after 6 pm. For you, Friday might also follow the late afternoon pattern-- folks heading home from work, kids stopping after school, stopping at the library to pick up a book or movie for the weekend. Maybe from 2-5 or 3-6pm? I did a patron survey and worked from there. Saturday we're open 10-2. Our hours were strange and inconsistent before so it's been a good change. You're right though, no matter what you do... Class II library. RTDL closes at 8.30 M-Th and everyone is usually cleared out by 8:15 patron-wise. Would it be possible to skim those two hours off of your M-Th schedule and add them to Friday ? Good morning Don, JFK, jr is open M-Th 12-8 and F-Sa 12-5 CK is open M-Th 10-9 and F-Sa 10-5 We get a lot of patrons wishing JFK was open earlier than noon; we may be doing this due to the numerous requests. Like you we will have to figure out staffing and then decide if we want to stay open until 8 or close earlier. We used to have a lot of people in the library between 6 and 8 but since COVID it is dead after 5pm. I would hate to close earlier though due to the few that do utilize the library after 5 because of their 9-5 work schedules. My recommendation would be to open earlier rather than later but I guess you would really need to look at when your traffic is coming in. In regards to staffing we usually have four or five workers on our 12-5 shift and it works out well. We have had days where we have been short staffed and ran it well with only three . I would be interested in your findings and how you plan on spreading your staff out. How many staff do you have? We have 2 librarians, 9 parapros, and 3 shelvers. Don, Garden City Public Library is open 12p - 5p on both Friday and Saturday. I like those hours because it keeps our hours as simple (M-Th 10a - 8p, F-Sa 12p - 5p) as opposed to having different hours on Friday and Saturday. Years ago, we had summer/winter hours when we were open on Friday in the summer, and open on Saturdays during the "winter" (roughly the school year). We do get people coming to the Library at 10a on Friday and Saturday expecting us to be open (or forgetting which day it is). Mostly they are looking for computer/internet services. Hi Donald, We haven't adjusted our hours since fully reopening after COVID, but our patrons hated when we did not have a consistent opening time -- we've never received so many complaints. Even patrons who always come in the middle of the day (so opening time doesn't really matter) complained. Maybe your community is different, but our patrons seem to take great comfort in knowing we open at 10:00am every day. As far as staffing, you may want to check your health insurance plan to see when benefits kick in. For us, I think it's 30 hours, so we have to be sure part time staff stays below that threshold. Outside of that, we did have to bring on extra staff as we expanded our schedule. We're a relatively small staff -- 7 part-time desk workers. That's a good number for us. Our open hours are covered, and there's enough who are willing and able to sub when needed. Our schedule: Mon-Thu: 10:00am-8:00pm Fri: 10:00am-6:00pm Sat: 10:00am-3:00pm I hope this helps Hey Don, We ended up reducing our hours from COVID down to 10-7 Tuesday - Friday (not open Monday ), and Saturday stayed the same until 4. I looked back about a month on the camera and counted my traffic after 6, and it just wasnt worth it past 7. The place we could use hours the most are on Saturdays probably later, maybe 5 -7. I could see a few people being interested in Sundays. We've been closed on Monday 's since the recession (2008). While we know we would get some traffic, it didn't seem worth it to dilute traffic the rest of the week when in the last 7 years we've had 0 complaints. So Sunday hours would probably open more opportunities for the public than Mondays for example, which seems to be quintessentially the same boat as you. Donald Priest Director Southgate Veterans Memorial Library 14680 Dix-Toledo Rd. Southgate MI 48195 734-258-3002

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Protective covers for circulating vinyl -- recommendations?
by Kerry FitzGerald 17 Jan '23

17 Jan '23

Hi, all. We're in the planning stages for circulating vinyl (LPs) again -- after 30 years! Who would have thunk? I see that Gaylord has a 100-pack of 1.5 mil polypropylene record sleeve covers that fit snugly over LP jackets and include a resealable flap to keep records clean, but they don't look heavy enough to me to stand up to circulation. I'm also concerned that the resealable flap will get dirty and stop being resealable. If you have a vinyl circulating collection, we'd love to hear from you about what product(s) you use to protect the album cover and vinyl discs in circulation. Respond to me off list and I'll compile responses for any who are interested. Have a great Tuesday! <http://loutitlibrary.org/> Kerry FitzGerald, MILS Head of Technical Services 616.850.6933 | loutitlibrary.org 407 Columbus Ave. Grand Haven, MI 49417 Expanding Horizons. Enriching Minds. Engaging Community. <https://www.facebook.com/LoutitDistrictLibrary/> <https://www.instagram.com/loutitlibrary/> <https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJGvakceRtYoYlJabcxzAcw>

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Clinton Macomb Public Library is hiring!
by Lisa Hernandez 17 Jan '23

17 Jan '23

The Clinton-Macomb Public Library is seeking high quality candidates with outstanding external and internal customer service skills to join our Customer CARE team as a provisional (part-time) Customer Concierge. This position includes assisting customers with obtaining library cards, resolving account issues up to $100, registering for programs, and placing holds. This person handles basic troubleshooting of the automated materials handling system among other duties. We offer a pleasant work environment with clean & modern facilities including a brand new world class branch located in Macomb Township. Please visit our website for a full job description and application requirements. https://cmpl.org/employment/ Thank you & we look forward to hearing from you soon!

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Compiled Answers for Labelling Odd LoT Items
by Director 17 Jan '23

17 Jan '23

Hello everyone, There was interest in sharing the responses I received regarding my inquiry from earlier last week about how to label items with unique shapes & uses (like fishing poles). Thank you to all those who took the time to respond; these were extremely helpful. It seems like most libraries use luggage tags or write on their items with markers, with a corresponding full record on a separate sheet of paper. Thank you again and have a great rest of your week! Best, Kelsey Rutkowski *--------------------------------------* *Library Director* *Indian River Area Library* 3546 S Straits Hwy PO Box 160 Indian River, MI 49749 (231) 238-8581 indianriverlibrary.org

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Jeff Morrison Program Tomorrow!
by Kirsten Wellnitz 17 Jan '23

17 Jan '23

Join us at the Alice & Jack Wirt Library tomorrow, January 18, 6:00 pm to hear from Michigan Notable Book author Jeff Morrison! He will be presenting on his book Guardians of Michigan: Architectural Sculpture of the Pleasant Peninsulas. It will also be live streamed on our Facebook page. More information can be found on our event calendar here: https://www.baycountylibrary.org/event/evening-sessions-guardians-michigan-… Kirsten Wellnitz Managing Librarian Alice & Jack Wirt Library 500 Center Ave. Bay City, MI 48708 989-893-9566 ext. 2111

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Free Exterior Book Drops
by Quyen Edwards 17 Jan '23

17 Jan '23

In addition to the book bins and return chutes posted last week, we also have two external book drops. These came from another library and were used at our temporary location and during our building renovation. Free, pick up at Portage District Library. Feel free to email off list with questions or for additional pictures. Quyên Edwards Assistant to the Director/Library Board Secretary Portage District Library 300 Library Lane Portage, MI 49002 (269) 585-8701 she/her/hers [cid:19dece63-a312-46af-9113-c68b3622698d] [cid:7ddda9f7-7c30-4512-b1a1-e079d78f37e8] 25" length x 25" width x slopes 39" to 49" height includes key at the front of the unit [cid:4cb77008-ecce-447f-adad-4aedcd64c70c][cid:8310d27f-c9b7-415f-8146-16f6a3eb9d1e] 32" length x 32" width x slopes 44" to 49" height access door in rear, no key

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Dutch Books Free to a Good Home
by Shannon O'Leary 17 Jan '23

17 Jan '23

Hi Everyone! I have books in Dutch (in fantastic condition) that I'd like to give away. They are: 7-Tom Clancy 3- John Grisham 5- Wilbur smith 2- david Baldacci 3- Clive Cussler 1- Lee Child 1- Robert Ludlum 1- Robert Bryndza 1- Rachel Caine 1- Alex Kava 1- Alyson Richman AND 4- cookbooks 4- assorted nonfiction First come- first served! Please include your RIDES code! Thank you! Shannon O'Leary *Shannon O'Leary *| Information Services International Librarian (she/her/hers) Novi Public Library 45255 W. Ten Mile Rd. Novi MI 48375 *Office: * 248-349-0720 Ext: 7287 www.novilibrary.org *Inform. Inspire. Include.* <https://mysignature.io/editor?utm_source=promotion&utm_medium=signature&utm…>

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Library of Things
by Joelle Wake 17 Jan '23

17 Jan '23

Hi Clare, I was curious to know if libraries get specific insurance for their Library of Things collections? I was told by my insurance agent that we would not be covered if we lend "dangerous non-traditional" items such as tools, kayaks, etc. I reached out on the director's listserv and I only had one Director respond back saying that they did not get extra coverage. In fact, Niles Public Library only has a policy and a liability waiver for their LoT collection, which I anticipate having too. I was also wondering if you had a general liability waiver that other places use? I look forward to hearing from you. Thanks, [cid:8e1b87b8-698f-4941-b941-6c98ba439e17] [facebook]<https://www.facebook.com/lincolntownshippubliclibrary> [instagram]<https://www.instagram.com/lincoln_township_library/> Joelle J. Wake Director Lincoln Township Public Library [https://cdn2.hubspot.net/hubfs/53/tools/email-signature-generator/icons/pho…] (269) 429-9575<tel:(269)%20429-9575> [https://cdn2.hubspot.net/hubfs/53/tools/email-signature-generator/icons/lin…] https://lincolntownshiplibrary.org/ [https://cdn2.hubspot.net/hubfs/53/tools/email-signature-generator/icons/add…] 2099 W. John Beers Rd., Stevensville, MI 49127<https://goo.gl/maps/wV6hXVcu7BLr7CZA8> [cid:7d25fec2-5f9e-49fb-855e-69dfa637e0c6]<https://bit.ly/3Odzy23>

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Closing Sunday! Library Director search - Willard Public Library (IN)
by Beth Barker 16 Jan '23

16 Jan '23

Library Director - Willard Public Library (IN) The Willard Public Library (IN)<https://willard.lib.in.us/> Board of Trustees seeks a trusted leader to be the voice of the library in the community and serve as its next Library Director. As the oldest public library building in Indiana, Willard Public Library honors its legacy with robust genealogy and history collections, dynamic programming, and as a world-famous ghost-hunting site - home to the Grey Lady. Trustees are appointed by a combination of the Board of County Commissioners, the County Council, by the local school board, and the Evansville-Vanderburgh Public Library Board. The director will work with 16 FTE, a $1.3 million budget, and a single facility to ensure its patrons have access to historical, recreational, educational, and cultural materials free of charge. Key initiatives include promoting the library to a new generation of lifelong learners, working with the board to develop a strategic plan, helping the library keep pace with technological trends, and leading and supporting staff through open communication and collaboration. Evansville, Indiana - the state's third largest city - offers a combination of big-town amenities and midwestern sensibilities with an active and historical downtown. Situated on the Ohio River in Southwestern Indiana, Evansville has unique neighborhoods, and events to enjoy year-round. Families enjoy attractions like the Mesker Park Zoo, the Children's Museum of Evansville, an increasingly vibrant arts and dining scene, and an extensive greenway system. The University of Evansville and the University of Southern Indiana offer higher educational opportunities and residents enjoy a low cost of living and being in close proximity to five major cities. Responsibilities: The Library Director is responsible for the managerial oversight of the facilities, staff, finances, fundraising, and all associated public relations for the library. The Director is charged with the administration of the policies and procedures of the organization in accordance with its articles of incorporation and by-laws, national and local laws, and relevant authorities, as well as charged with implementing the decisions of the Board of Trustees. Additional responsibilities include but are not limited to ensuring effective systems to track and administer the fiduciary functions of the library; establishing and enforcing procedures and policies for the effective operations of all library functions; acting as an official library contact point for all members of the media and government officials and agencies; and directing the activities of library staff including scheduling and fulfillment of duties assigned. Qualifications: A minimum of three years of relevant experience, demonstrated success in a leadership position (ideally a cultural organization), and an ALA-accredited master's degree in Library Science is required. The ideal candidate will possess excellent communication skills, a proven track record of visionary leadership, a collaborative spirit, and the ability to effectively lead, grow, and develop the library staff. Compensation: The hiring salary range is $80,000 - $95,000 (with placement negotiable dependent on experience and qualifications) and an excellent fringe benefits package. For further information, contact Bradbury Miller Associates<https://bradburymiller.com/>. Apply via email with a meaningful cover letter and your resume as Word or PDF attachments to Briana Trudell<mailto:brianatrudell@bradburymiller.com> (brianatrudell(a)bradburymiller.com<mailto:brianatrudell@bradburymiller.com>). This position closes on Sunday, January 22, 2023. View this announcement in its entirety along with accompanying links and information at https://bradburymiller.com/job/willard-in/. Beth Miller Barker Finance and Communications Director Bradbury Miller Associates (cell) 330-340-7115 bethbarker(a)bradburymiller.com<mailto:bethbarker@bradburymiller.com> Sign up for our newsletter<https://visitor.r20.constantcontact.com/d.jsp?llr=myy6mkoab&p=oi&m=11148931…> for updates on available positions!

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Re: [Michlib-l] Disc Cleaning/Restoration Machines
by Ted Gregory 16 Jan '23

16 Jan '23

Hello, Thank you to everyone who responded to our question last week about disc cleaning machines. About half of the responses were in support of the JFJ Easy Pro machines that the message mentioned, while the other half said they had good results from various models sold by https://www.elm-usa.com/. Thanks again to everyone who took the time to respond. -- Ted Gregory Mackinaw Area Public Library mackinaw1(a)gmail.com Find us online at http://www.mackinawareapl.michlibrary.org/ <http://mackinawareapubliclibrary.org/> and on Facebook! 528 W. Central Ave. P.O. Box 67 Mackinaw City, MI 49701-0067 phone: (231) 436-5451 fax: (231) 436-7344

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