Unscripted

Library Volunteers Serve With Enthusiasm

2010-04-22T07:00:00.000-07:00

We're in the midst of National Volunteer Week and in our typical tradition the Palatine Public Library District recognized volunteers yesterday at the annual luncheon. We enjoyed meeting both long-term and new volunteers and were pleased to see how much our group of volunteers has grown since last year.

Volunteers serve in a number of capacities from stamping and sorting date due cards to straightening items on shelves to pulling items with a hold request and even assisting with preparation for library programs.

Our volunteers have a variety of backgrounds and all express a love of libraries and a desire to be of service to the community.

We are very fortunate and thankful to have the support of these enthusiastic volunteers.

Spring Weather Provides Great Opportunities For Biking To The Library

2010-03-30T11:17:00.000-07:00

With warmer Spring weather upon us, this would be a great time to bring bicycles out of storage and ride them to the Library. The Park District and Community Information sites provide very good maps showing off-road and on-road trails within the community of Palatine and Hoffman Estates. For a map of trails in Palatine click here. For a link to the Hoffman Estates trails map click here.

The Main Library, Freeman Road Branch and Rand Road Branch each has bike racks available on site for storage of a bicycle while patrons in the building.

Library Collections Are Continuously Maintained

2010-03-16T10:11:00.000-07:00

One of the primary duties of librarians is to choose materials for the Library's various collections and to remove any titles that are no longer current, are in bad shape or have been replaced by more useful information or format. There is an entire course required of students pursuing the Master's Degree in Library Science on collection management. Collection management is typically described as both an art and a science. One must know a lot about the existing collection and about what is available to purchase. Community needs and interests count heavily as well.

The Board of the Palatine Public Library District has been committed to providing the very best collections within budget and so typically about 16-17% of the budget has been allocated for materials. This is higher than the average which is usually somewhere around 12-13% of the total.

Recently we learned that the annual per capita grant issued by the state would be cut and that we would receive about $15,000 less this year than we did last year. Since the library budget allocates 100% of the money from the per capita grant to materials, this cut posed some concern. In response the Library Board adjusted the working budget to reflect this reduction. In keeping a balanced budget, $15,000 was deleted as income from the per capita grant and expenditures for materials was decreased that same amount. Trustees maintain a continual awareness of income and expenditures via reports presented each month.

Because we have staff who are well-versed in collection management; selection of materials will continue with the same care invested at all times. The goal of the staff and Board remains that of providing the very best collections within budget and that commitment remains unchanged in spite of changes to funding.

Library Programs Are Diverse and Interesting

2010-03-03T11:03:00.000-08:00

Have you noticed the great variety of programs being offered at the Library during March and April? Look here to find out all about what has been scheduled. As usual staff has planned programs for all ages. The popular Laughter Club is really catching on with seniors and family members. Come by to enjoy a good chuckle!

With our new computer classroom well established, Microsoft Software Instructional Classes are back in full swing. This is a great opportunity for cardholders to gain new skills or to refresh what you already know.

Check out the various activities planned for Teen Tech Week (March 7th through 13th) and you can mark your calendar now to join in the festivities celebrating National Library Week (April 11th through 17th).

Just as our collection embraces a wide variety of interests and needs, so too does staff seek to schedule and plan the greatest variety among programs throughout the year. We hope you'll find many programs to experience. You can read about the offerings in the newsletter that was delivered to your home back in mid February or click on the link at the beginning of this article. Enjoy!

Library Snapshot Day and Legislative Breakfast Meeting

2010-02-18T13:48:00.000-08:00

Two really interesting events took place within the last week. On Wednesday February 10th libraries all around Illinois celebrated Snapshot Day by taking pictures and video of people and events that would show a typical day in the life of a public library. Here is the Palatine Public Library District's photo and slide show. Click on the YouTube or Flickr icon to view.

Staff enjoyed the many comments that patrons shared telling how much the library means to them. Imagine this type of response multiplied by the hundreds of libraries all around the state! We had over 1,200 visitors that day in spite of the snow event that took place just the day and evening before. Many were looking for a place to hang out for a while and others came in for some good reading materials to enjoy during the rest of the day at home. Others used study room space or searched on library computers.

We were reminded of the many ways and reasons people visit a public library and were refreshed by the enthusiasm expressed by so many. Thanks to all who visited here on the 10th and who so graciously took the time to speak with staff and be photographed as well.

Then, just this past Monday, staff and Boards from North Suburban Library System member libraries met over breakfast with state senators and congressional representatives. The mood was pretty serious as legislators spoke of tough decisions that will need to be made regarding the budget in Illinois. Funding for library systems and for annual per capita grants to individual libraries has been cut with systems only having received about 1/3 of their allocations from the state with well over 1/2 of the year behind us. Layoffs and other cost curtailments have occurred.

There has never been a better time for residents to contact elected officials to comment about the state of finances in Illinois. As I mentioned, there was much discussion of tough decisions and residents can be aware of pending bills and budget discussions by going to the Official Website For the State of Illinois.

After listening to patrons on Snapshot Day, staff is more aware than ever about the potential impact on libraries and library service that could occur if funding for Illinois libraries declines or even worse would be eliminated. I encourage you to contact legislators to comment about all concerns regarding the finances of IL since this is one of the benefits of living in the democracy that we are so fortunate to have in place.

New Drive-Up Materials Drops Are Now Open

2010-02-04T13:42:00.000-08:00

Back in 2008 the Library held several focus group meetings and provided online and paper surveys for the purpose of getting feedback from patrons about the use of various library spaces. One of the services that patrons most frequently identified as missing was a drive-up drop off for materials.

During our space needs assessment, the Library tried to find a way to add a 24/7 drive up drop to the facility. After quite a bit of study, we were not able to locate any spot where someone could drive up to the building on the outside or from the inside of the garage in order to drop off materials to an inside location. The library really is surrounded by parking, street access and a pond.

Staff felt determined to figure out a way to offer this service and along the way our Facilities Manager, Rick, suggested placing a drop at the foot of the entry ramp of the underground parking garage. Several measurements and planning meetings later, we agreed this might be a possible solution.

I'm so pleased to let everyone know that last weekend we opened 2 drops of different heights on the upper level of the parking garage. The drops are on the left just at the foot of the entry ramp. Even without any publicity, several patrons discovered them on the first day open and they've been in use each day since then.

I'd invite you to use the drive up material drops which will be available all hours the Main library is open. As always the walk up drop at the front of the library is open 24/7.

Patron Comments Are Welcome and Appreciated

2010-01-28T13:36:00.000-08:00

Each week I receive emails or comment slips from patrons and often included are expressions of thanks for service provided by staff. Our intent is that each visit to the library will be enjoyable for and meaningful to patrons. So, I am really pleased to hear these supportive, positive comments. I always share the comments with the staff member involved when I can identify him or her and I pass the praise along to the person's supervisor as well. It means a lot to all of us when someone takes the time to compose a message of thanks.

Of course I also receive suggestions for titles that might be added to the library's collections and those are passed along to the various librarians who select books and recorded items. When we get such requests we consider all seriously and more often than not we are able to make the purchase and place the requester on hold for that item. Many people will benefit by being able to check out and read or listen to the title at a later date.

I also receive questions about services and programs or sometimes just about collection changes or display changes. At other times someone may ask about something pertaining to the physical building or library space. I welcome these questions, too, because I am provided an opportunity to share information, address a concern or improve something within library services.

It is most helpful to me when someone signs a comment slip or email and provides contact information so that I am able to return thanks or information. When I receive a comment with no contact information and know that I could provide an explanation or information back to that person IF only there was contact information well, that's a challenge. Still, I understand that sometimes a person just wants to bring something to my attention but does not necessarily wish to be contacted.

So, please keep the comments, suggestions and thanks coming. I very much value the opportunities for two-way communication between myself and those who visit our 3 library locations.

Please come by soon; winter is a perfect time to catch up on reading, listening or viewing!

New Year ; Renewed Interests

2010-01-21T07:47:00.000-08:00

January is always a fun time for public libraries. With the various Holidays behind us and celebrating the dawn of a new year, staff and visitors are ready for renewed reading, listening, hobby pursuit and learning. During my 20 years working in public libraries I have noticed that library use surges in September as students of all ages return to classrooms and again in January as many look for ways to seek help in keeping resolutions and as we turn attention toward cold-weather leisure reading or to continued study based upon a variety of interests.

It used to be that August and December were the "lull" months in public libraries as families filled those final days before the start of school with vacation and outings while during the Holidays many were busy with events and family time. This still holds true to some extent and no doubt the shelves do fill up in the library during December as households prepare for guests and festivities and so much cleaning and clearing out takes place.

Still, in more recent years we find that there is plenty of activity and use of the library during August and December with the September and January upturns continuing. Such are the advantages of an information and resource-rich world!

The second floor renovation wrapped up in December so there is no better time to visit the Palatine Public Library District's Main Library. Computer classes are back in session as the new training lab is now in operation. Click here for information about these classes. The training lab computers are available for general use when no class is in session and so 16 more computers than before the renovation are generally available.

The new group study rooms are very popular and they can be reserved up to two weeks in advance or used on a drop-in basis as available. To reserve a room stop by the service desk on the second floor or call 847.358.5881 extension 169.

We hope to see you here at the library soon. Stop by the new vending area on the second floor to enjoy hot or cold drinks or some snacks during your next visit.

Central Stairway Opened Today

2009-11-06T15:39:00.000-08:00

The renovated Central Stairs at the Main Library opened today after about 8 weeks of construction and final touch up. While I had posted back in October that the stairs would open, some reworking was needed and they remained closed at that time. After feeling like my announcement had somewhat jinxed the opening, I decided to wait until the stairs were in use before announcing the opening and so with much enthusiasm I am able to share that the new stairs are now in use.

Carpeting continues and the new computers in the expanded computer lab and computers just outside that space are being used while re-carpeting and new table setup is taking place just in front of the 2nd floor reference desk. A new service desk which is more open to allow for easier discussion with patrons is being installed as well.

The last area of the 2nd floor to be addressed includes the new vending/cafe' area, the new space for microfilm, the renovated quiet study room and the re-carpeted magazine area. The project is now expected to wrap up in the week before Thanksgiving. I can say we are all thankful for the project results and will be celebrating the new space for a while to come.

Central Stairway To Remain Closed A Bit Longer

2009-10-22T11:11:00.000-07:00

The remaining detail work on the stairs has not been completed and so the new central stairway needs to remain closed off for a few days longer. We anticipate an opening sometime next week. In the meantime the scheduled carpeting took place today and furniture is being set up as planned.
We apologize for the delay regarding the stairs but for sure want to get everything in place before staff and public begin using them.

The New Stairway Will Open Up Tomorrow

2009-10-21T15:05:00.000-07:00

The new stairway is complete and awaiting just a finishing clean-up. Patrons and staff will be able to use the stairs tomorrow. Here is a photo so you can see how great the stairway looks! Everyone has been amazed at the improved access and security as the view into and out of the popular materials department is much enhanced. The stairs will also now easily accommodate two or more passing. Please come in to see and use the new pathway between the two floors.

Finishing touches are taking place within other areas that have been renovated and the construction partitions are being removed as areas become newly carpeted. The group study rooms and new computer lab will be furnished next week and will open for public use just as soon as possible.

The renovation began early this past summer and was slated to finish up in late October or early November so the completion is right on target. We can't wait for patrons to begin using these refurbished spaces and the time will be here soon.

The return boxes for the drive-up drop in the garage have been ordered and will be installed just as soon as they arrive. Patrons asked for this option so we are also eager to provide a means of drive-up return during hours the library is open.

Thanks to all of you who have continued to come into the library during the renovation. We appreciate having a chance to provide service and appreciate your patience with the process as well.

It's Friday And Renovation Work Remains In Progress

2009-09-25T12:59:00.000-07:00

If you've been in the library lately you've likely noticed the entire stairs encased in a partition. The steel structure for the new stairway is being erected and that's where the periodic sounds are coming from. The work on the stairs has been steady all week and for structural items slow and steady is what we want!

Drywall and taping continue in the rooms being created. We look forward to some painting and that's when things will really begin to look more finished.

The staff at times feels like we're living in the Home and Garden TV show "Design Remix". I've written about the re-purposing going on in this project and so as we identify pieces of furniture that won't be returning to a former spot we're asking where else these items might be used. Also, we've been "stealing" some of our furnishings from areas to see if they can fill a need in a renovated area. Our goal is to retain as much that is functional as possible while making sure renovated areas are both functional and comfortable.

Our architect, Martha Bell, said at our weekly construction meeting on Tuesday that she can see the end in sight. I think we're all beginning to feel that way and can't wait to unveil the new spaces to everyone. Mark your calendar to stop in at the library soon and then again after the renovation is complete sometime in November. We're open for business while the work is going on and look forward to providing better access and spaces in the very near future.

The Stairs Are Gone And Walls Just Keep Going Up

2009-09-22T13:40:00.000-07:00

Yesterday morning the very last bit of existing stairway was removed. The "old" stairs are now history and the space available for the new stairs is clearly evident. Who knew that the stair opening was really so spacious? We all had the feeling and could measure dimensions as well as the next person but just seeing the space so clearly gives us an idea of how much the up and down access will be improved.

During the next week the renovation project pretty much will consist of the installation of the steel for the new staircase and the continuing installation and taping of drywall for the group study rooms and new computer lab space. 5 group study rooms and a 16-computer lab are being created as part of this renovation. The lab will be used for instruction and the computers in that space will be available to patrons when there are no classes in session.

Apologies to all that the various construction sounds and possibly smells will continue for a little while longer. We really wanted to keep the library open and so the trade-off is that there's no way to avoid the hammering, banging and general sound of power tools being used on the project.

The contractor told us today the project is still on track to finish up at the end of October or shortly thereafter so before too long the work will be done and the new areas available for use.

Stairs Are Being Closed Off

2009-09-15T10:32:00.000-07:00

The work on closing up the central stairway began today and in a Murphy's law kind of scenario the elevator quit working for a while. Thank goodness the stairway was still open and the elevator issue is being resolved. But, isn't that just the kind of thing you'd never wish to happen when closing off stairs access? There is a plan B when the stairs are closed off for anyone who doesn't wish to ride in the elevator. Staff will seek to get patrons to the second floor by another means just as we've been taking patrons on the service elevator for the past day or so.

In case anyone wonders, we have 3 pathways for emergency exit from the second floor so the closure of the central stairs is an inconvenience but not a safety concern.

We got the tentative 3-week schedule today and this week in addition to the stairs partition construction there will be a demo of the stairs. This is sure to be noisy so be advised! The drywall for the new group study rooms and computer lab is going up, too.

Next week we're expecting the installation of the steel for the new stairway and additional drywall and taping. Glass for doors and windows in the administration area should be installed by the end of next week, too.

The end of September will see the concrete poured for the stairway and drywall going into the stairway area. If all goes as planned, painting of the drywall put up this week and next will begin by the end of the month.

Just a reminder to any reader that the Main Library and branches will be closed on October 2nd so that staff can participate in an all-day training session. Last year over 100 of the 125 or so staff members were able to attend and this means an opportunity for staff to have a shared training and discussion experience. Workshop topics range from customer service to readers' advisory to safety at home and in the workplace.

The Garage Work Is Complete And Renovation Continues

2009-09-12T11:18:00.001-07:00

The work on the upper level of the garage has been completed and the garage is open and now resealed and re-striped. Everyone is noticing how fresh and clean the floor appears and all of the repairs were successfully conducted underneath that freshly sealed floor. It was definitely a worthwhile project though not fun in the midst of it; for sure worth the wait. We were able to add one additional handicapped parking spot and rearrange some of the parking spaces for better access and use. You might also notice the sign indicating a drive-up materials drop that is coming soon. Last year when we surveyed patrons about library spaces and services we learned that there was much interest in a drive up drop. While we were not able to come up with a good solution for a 24/7 drive-up drop connected to the building, a staff member finally saw a potential solution at the foot of the ramp entry to the garage. So just as soon as book drops arrive, we'll install them on the left side at the foot of the entry ramp. The drive-up drops will be accessible all hours the Main Library is open. Staff and Board members are looking forward to bringing this new service to the public. Of course the covered walk-up drop at the front of the building will remain available 24/7.

And of course the renovation continues, too. We were happy to see carpet installed beginning this past Friday. The carpet will be installed in public spaces somewhat later but this preview gave us a chance to see that the new carpet looks great! The next big change will be the construction of a partition around the central stairway on both the first and second floors next week. This partition will be very obvious - the stairway footprint is big - and it is necessary for safety reasons and for the potential to muffle at least some of the sounds. The upshot is that once the partition is in place, patron access to the second floor will only be via the elevator for a period of 5 weeks or so. There will also only be one place for getting through from the elevator to the computers and books on the second floor.

We do apologize for any inconvenience or upheaval this renovation poses to patrons. We are working to complete this project on schedule with wrap-up near the middle of November and already we can see how the resulting space will be so worth it. Any person who needs assistance for any reason due to this renovation process or actually for any reason at all is encouraged to ask staff for help. One thing that is true about library employees is the wish to help any and all who visit the library so please "just ask".

I surely have found that being in the middle of the projects impacts the time available to sit down and share via blog so I'm expecting more frequent updates again following this post. Pardon the lag since the last post, we've been busy working with the architect and construction company as walls are framed out, windows installed, carpet laid, walls painted ... well you get the idea!

Garage Is Closed Again and Demolition On Second Floor Continues

2009-08-21T14:12:00.000-07:00

The parking garage is closed again for sealing and re-striping and will open up after Labor Day. Thanks to everyone for your patience. The staff is parking off site so there should be plenty of parking in the east and west surface lots.

Lots of walls have come down and we're amazed about the open spaces. We can't wait until the big reveal for the public. While this is still several months off, the possibilities begin to seem real now. Let the staff know if you have questions about the space that is being revamped.

There is information about the renovation on our website at
http://www.palatinelibrary.org/renovation.htm if you'd like some details.

When the library asked for staff, Trustee and patron feedback about a year ago, some of the items on the wish list were: more computers, more study rooms, more comfy seating, a cafe' or vending area and a more functional central stairway. All of these are included in the project and will be enjoyed by the public.

Like all projects; we'll be glad when it's finished. For now we're glad progress is being made.

Spaces Undergoing Renovation Are Being Walled In

2009-08-17T13:21:00.000-07:00

The construction crew began walling in spaces last week and will finish up with additional walls today. What spaces are being enclosed? There is a wall that blocks off the old computer lab, the magazine area and access to the quiet study room. Why is such a large area enclosed? There is quite a bit of demolition going on in various locations behind that wall and public access to any part of the space will really not be safe throughout the tear-down and rebuilding process. Walling off the entire section will allow the workmen to proceed as quickly as possible and finish up the work.

There's another wall surrounding the 2 group study rooms and going all along the area where the copiers, express computers and new non-fiction used to be. That area is enclosed so work can begin on the new computer lab and group study rooms.

The reason these walled-in areas seem so large is that overall upstairs and down, 5,000 square feet is being revamped for public use! This is really exciting but it means quite a bit of library space needs to be blocked off.

If you have not taken a look at the AV area recently, stop by because there is additional seating and a more spacious, light look to the room. Stop by anyway because this is a great time of year to think about reading something by your favorite author or to discover a new author.

Gearing Up For Phase Two of the Renovation - Public Spaces

2009-08-12T15:55:00.001-07:00

The construction barrier is going up and this signals the start of phase two of the second floor renovation. The demolition of areas being repurposed as public space is about to begin!

You may have noticed that the area formerly behind the plastic in the AV room is now opened. We've placed some comfy seating by the windows and plan to add some tables in the near future.
Everyone agrees that opening up that area has been a nice enhancement to the space.

Behind the scenes staff members are moving across the hall into the renovated workroom which will now house staff from 2 departments. We're still awaiting some flooring in the staff lounge and administration entry area so these 2 areas can be finished up.

Weekly Tuesday morning construction meetings have kept us on track and the Library has greatly appreciated the work of architects Martha Bell and Mike Carney of Tilton, Kelly and Bell. In addition to managing the redesigns of the library space, TKB is overseeing the construction and furnishings for this project.

Next week might include some unusual noise in the library as demolition takes place. The contractor indicates he'll try to complete the noisiest work early in the day but as demo spills over into later hours, with apology, patrons may hear some of the activity.

Renovation Moves Into August and First Phase of Garage Repair Wraps Up

2009-08-01T10:42:00.000-07:00

This past week the first phase of the garage repair came to an end and the garage is now open while the cement is curing. The complete curing requires about 3 weeks so the garage will be closed again beginning around the 12th or 13th of August. At that time the final sealant will be applied and the striping done with plans to open the garage again right after Labor Day. I can't thank everyone enough - staff and public - for the understanding as we've undertaken this repair. Since it's a warm-weather project requiring 8-10 weeks it was inevitable that part of the summer would be needed to complete the work. The good news is the garage will be ready to go well before the also inevitable Chicago-area winter weather arrives. (Gee, I sure do not want to think about that just now!)

We're getting ever closer to revealing the first area impacted by the renovation. The work associated with removal of some of the small rooms in the Audio Visual area is almost done. On Friday the finishing touches were being put on the paint. We do plan to open up that area sometime in the upcoming week with tables and chairs - items often requested as an addition in that space. We're really looking forward to any rearranging of shelving that the extra space allows as well. And the light coming in those west windows is already amazing.

Progress continues in workrooms as more painting and flooring is installed. Right now we expect to begin seeing construction barriers erected in public areas during the second week of August. I have a feeling the end of phase one and the start of phase two will be happening pretty much at the same time as the project rolls on into more demolition that sets the stage for new public areas.

For those of you who love browsing our new non-fiction - heads up - it has been moved in preparation for that phase two demolition. The new non-fiction now fits nicely on the two sections of shelving just across from the service desk and newspapers. Ask at the desk if the new location is eluding you. We still have the same great selection and display.

Flurry Of Activity With Renovation Projects Today

2009-07-24T12:43:00.000-07:00

Suddenly today there are many elements of the renovation project coming together. Mill work is being installed in a couple of workrooms and so the character of each room is slowly taking shape. Storage and work surfaces are so key in any workroom and it is great to see counters, shelves and closed cupboards in place. The counters in the shared workroom are designed so that book carts can be stored under them. This arrangement will be very efficient.

One time when I was working on a design process for a workroom we were struggling about what to do for storage of all the book carts that are needed to carry out daily work. A staff member wished out loud that we could design in-ground or basement storage of book carts whereby the carts would stack on top of each other and could pop out one at a time rather like a PEZ dispenser!! We all thought that was a wonderful idea but so far I'm not aware of any engineer who has figured out how to accomplish this marvelous storage method.

Cable for computers is also being installed today. Adequate cabling is a must to support the level of computer use that is found in library operations these days. So, while it's not as intriguing to see as the more visible structures, we are really pleased to observe the extensive cable placement going on about us.

Patrons might begin to see more and more evidence of renovation activities going forward. The Corian top has been removed from the map case near the Board Room because it is being repurposed as a counter top in the staff lounge, replacing the very worn laminate that has already been removed from the lounge. The lounge is really torn up right now, but staff will surely appreciate the renovated kitchenette which prior to this project was still the original that was in place when the building opened in 1993.

Some side pieces of the stairwell have also been removed. The central stairway replacement is in my mind one of the greatest improvements included in the renovation project. We look forward to the open feel and look which will contribute to much better functionality.

Since my last post just a few small pieces of the project have been accomplished so it was especially good to see all that took place today. Next week - painting and flooring and with any luck some furnishings will be evident in staff spaces. We look forward to the completion of phase 1 so that work in public spaces can begin.

Renovation Continues

2009-07-16T14:44:00.002-07:00

Detail work continues on the back-of-house renovations. Electrical work and cabling are moving along. Furniture is set to be assembled during the last week of July so that phase two, which includes the public areas, looks like it'll be on track to begin the second week in August. We're looking forward to completion of the small bit of work being done in the AV room. That space is shaping up. Floor coverings are set to go in workrooms and other spaces as well. It'll be great when the concrete floors are covered up again.

Thanks to those who have posted the 3 comments to my blog so far. I would really like to hear from anyone who has a question or comment about the renovation or the libray in general.

There are a few weeks left to participate in the Summer Reading Program. There is still an opportunity to earn the T-shirt prize. So finish up those books and come by for a visit. If you're planning an upcoming vacation think about the Library for stocking up on books, magazines, music and recorded books. We have a lot of choices!

Week 3 of Renovation Comes to a Close

2009-07-10T12:09:00.000-07:00

There's not much going on with the renovation today. I think it's pretty common to find things winding down on the last day of the week. There's a bit of ongoing carpentry as offices are framed out. It has been fun to see the beginnings of some of the repurposing that was planned into this project. The Information Services Manager is now minus a door to her office because that door is being reused in one of the new offices in the administrative wing. The Manager's office will be demolished eventually ceding space to some of the new public area.

The garage project is moving along. Thanks to everyone for the understanding about the temporary garage closure. The garage, along with the library building, is 15 years old now and requires typical repair and upkeep to ensure continued use. The crew seems to be making good progress leading us to hope that the two-week time frame is the very maximum to expect.

I read an amusing story published by the Chicago Trib today. Here's the link:

http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/chi-talk-10-weirdest-sports-injujul10,0,3379533.story

It led me to think about the unusual types of injuries that happen in libraries. Sure, you might think it's a pretty safe place (and it is) but those of us who have worked in libraries for a while know that it's not foolproof! For instance, rolling a book cart over one's toe (or even worse over that of a coworker) can happen in the blink of an eye. It's kind of a rite of passage that this will happen eventually. Then there's the dropping of books (always the biggest and heaviest) on one's foot. But the truly threatening library-related injury is the dreaded paper cut! And there's plenty of paper lurking in every book on site. Even the most wonderful children's book can suddenly cause this surprising wound. I guess it can't compare with the weird sports injuries though; no one has ever had to miss a whole season of library service because of a paper cut. Thank goodness for that!

Renovation Resumes and Garage Project Begins

2009-07-08T08:53:00.000-07:00

Just in case there was not enough going on with the 2nd floor renovation, we are beginning a repair of the upper level of the garage this week. The garage project is a "fair weather" project so that's how it happens to coincide with the renovation work. For about the next two weeks the garage will be closed as work is done to repair cracks in the surface of the upper level. The repair is needed as water is seeping through the cracks and eroding the surface further while soaking through the ceiling coating on the lower level. Once the repair is done, the concrete needs to cure for about 30 days. After the curing period, the garage will be closed again for about 10 days while the final work, including sealing and striping, is completed. Once we're sure all leaks have been addressed, the lower level ceiling will be recoated. We look forward to the completion of this work! Parking for staff has been arranged nearby but offsite so surface parking will be available for patrons throughout the closure period.

Drywall is going up in phase 1 back-of-house areas. Electrical work and installation of doors and windows will be a priority in the next week or so. It's great to see some reconstruction progress as we can fully begin to see how some of the redesigned and rearranged spaces will look.

Even with projects going on, it has been wonderful to see the steady stream of summer reading program participants. There is still time to sign up and read toward the goal of the big prize - the PPLD T-shirt which is sponsored and provided annually by the Library's Friends group. Thanks to patrons for making the Library a part of your summer schedule and thanks to our terrific staff for lending a hand to make sure each visit goes smoothly.

Quiet on the Renovation Front Today

2009-07-02T16:46:00.000-07:00

With pretty much all of the phase one demolition finished, things were pretty quiet here at the library today. We've got several big open spaces now just waiting for the reconstruction to begin. Workstations and office furniture for the back-of-house areas are on order and should be here in a couple of weeks. In the meantime crews will be working on electrical sources, in-wall window installation, wall creation or repair and lighting. Evidence of renovation can be seen in the public areas in the AV department and upstairs near the Board room.

With the 4th of July coming up, it seems that the timing is good for a short break and activities will surely be ramping up again on Monday. Don't forget that the Main Library and branches are closed on Saturday July 4th for the holiday. You can catch some staff, volunteers and Trustees marching in the parade on Saturday with our fabulously decorated van. Hope you'll give a cheer when the library group goes by.

Renovation Realities!

2009-06-30T09:19:00.000-07:00

The reality of demolition activities hit very close to home today as work in the reception area outside my office began in a big way this morning. Carpet is being ripped up and walls knocked out which creates a noisy environment for sure. The sound of progress!

Furniture is being dismantled in a couple of locations so the big empty spaces are growing! It reminds me of the blank canvas needed to create that work of art. We look forward to the rebuilding even if it means living with some barren areas for a while.

The small rooms in the AV area have been completely removed on the west wall and WOW the natural light is already pouring in from the windows - even with the plastic drape still in place. We can see the benefits of opening up this area even in this preliminary stage. Can't wait to get the seating set up there and be fully celebrating this enhanced space. Patrons have sometimes asked us to put more seating in that AV area and there has just never been room so now we'll be able to meet this request.

At our weekly construction meeting this morning we collectively tried to look down the road going two weeks ahead and will likely by then be seeing the early signs of space reconfiguration - new walls, reinstalled doors and/or windows, repairs needed to address what has been added or removed. Hopefully the plans and activity will match up with our crystal ball gazing.

Renovation Week One Comes to a Close

2009-06-26T07:56:00.000-07:00

It's the end of week one of our 2nd floor renovation and so far so good. The demolition crew has been pretty amazing and they definitely prove out the "power in numbers" concept. They seem to move around as one; clearing, removing, relocating and storing in the blink of an eye! Communications among the contractor, staff of the architectural firm and library staff are running high and that's just how we want it to be so that we get the results we need and want.

Yesterday work was done to prepare for complete demo of some of the small rooms in the AV area. Those rooms are now divided off by protective plastic to minimize traveling of dust and small debris as the walls come down and, of course, to alert folks to stay away from the area. The good news is that service in the AV area is not impacted at all so please come in to continue to browse and check out items of interest to you.

Speaking of items in the AV area, in light of the stunning news of Michael Jackson's death, I want to mention that we do own several CDs featuring his music so if you want to become acquainted or reacquainted with his songs, remember the Library as an option to do so.

We continue to be excited about the outcome of the renovation activities and I'll be sharing continuing progress in the weeks to come.

Second Day of Renovation

2009-06-24T15:20:00.000-07:00

Today when I stepped off the elevator I was greeted by a concrete floor entirely stripped of the carpet that was there yesterday. Workroom demolition continued today as counter tops and shelving were removed and readied for relocation. We are repurposing any number of items during this renovation including cabinets, shelves, doors, windows and furniture. So they've got to "live" somewhere while awaiting the new location.

I've heard that tomorrow the rooms in the Audio Visual area will be demolished as will the closet and kitchette upstairs near the administration entry area. If that goes forward it should be a noisy day.

I've got to say that the staff has been going along with the flow with several in or about to be in temporary quarters for a while. Many have found it a good time to go through files and recycle papers or reconsider what is needed within the work station. This temporary time is not much fun but reorganizing in a refurbished space should prove more satisfying.

Second Floor Renovation News

2009-06-23T12:05:00.000-07:00

The Renovation of the Main Library's 2nd floor is up and running! Work began today on demolition of back-of-house spaces. We expect that things will be upside down for staff for a while and are using every nook and cranny we can find to store things. Since we're reusing and repurposing many pieces of furniture and equipment, we've got to find temporary homes while waiting for the workrooms and offices to be reoutfitted. During this phase very little of the activity will be evident to the public.

The areas being reworked first include a workroom that will be shared by two departments, a graphics workroom, the entry to the administrative area, staff lounge and the small area in the Audio-Visual room. We think the first phase of demo and reconstruction will take about 7 weeks so that would put us into the first week of August. Patrons and staff might see some prep work in and around the public spaces at about that time as the contractor prepares for teardown of walls to create the new public spaces.

I'll be updating daily - or at least on weekdays - to keep everyone informed about what's in store for the day or to report what was done the prior day. We're looking forward to the enhanced space use - not so much fun in the middle of it, but in my experience definitely worth the effort.