This is a wonderful idea, Julie. I'm looking forward to the conversation. Realistically, I think we'll see closures of schools and libraries extend until at least the beginning, but possibly the end of May. I want to make sure my staff feel productive and engaged, even if they have to work from home.

For those without resources, there have been suggestions on other sites or groups suggesting circ staff read and develop book, audiobook, and film recommendations to put up when the library service returns. I haven't seen much else for those without devices or reliable internet in their homes. There are still hotspots available throughout our community, but for some, that's a scary proposition if their health is such that they are at higher risk. With a shelter in place order, I doubt this would be considered essential travel, too.

I'm eager to see what can be done outside the building's limits by staff, especially those who's primary responsibility is patron-facing. Thank you for kicking this off.

Cynthia Stanczak, MLS

Library Director

Albion District Library

501 S. Superior St.
Albion, MI 49224
(517) 629-3993

Albion District Library: Transforming Minds, Changing Lives.

Proudly serving our community since 1919.

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On Wed, Mar 18, 2020 at 9:33 AM Julie Meredith via Michlib-l <michlib-l@mcls.org> wrote:

Hello Everyone!

This whole situation is daunting and unprecedented. I don’t know how you’re feeling but I’m ready to shift the conversation. Our profession wants to be seen as essential and innovative. In a world where millions of people work from home, I want to talk about that!

Yesterday we sent out a survey monkey to staff which included the following questions:

What are your tasks that can only be done at the library?

What tasks could you do from home given the appropriate resources?

What resources would you need in order to work from home? (WiFi hotspot, laptop, specific software, logins, passwords)

Supervisors were asked to call anyone on staff that might not have internet access in order to fill it out for them, so we have everyone’s input.

This afternoon I have scheduled a Zoom meeting with our department heads to brainstorm about the following: Given a shelter in place situation, what CAN we do?

Can we forward phones so staff can still help our patrons?

Can we offer email or Skype reference to help troubleshoot our online services?

What can we do in our ILS to assure our patrons don’t inadvertently lose access to our online services due to expired cards, etc.?

How can we still be a lifeline to people when they are stuck at home?

Perhaps your library is doing some or all of these things. If you are, please help us! Share what you do and how you do it.

Thank you in advance – this listserv is always a wealth of information and so inspiring!

Be well!
Julie

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