Credit (and thanks) to my nephew Byron for the photo.
And in fact it WAS on my itenerary in June. For comments and more pictures, put Philips Exeter in the search box.
Sunday, March 31, 2013
Louis Kahn library at Philips Exeter academy
OK, this HAS TO be on my itinerary in June. New Hampshire relatives take note: you have to get me here!
Credit (and thanks) to my nephew Byron for the photo.
And in fact it WAS on my itenerary in June. For comments and more pictures, put Philips Exeter in the search box.
Credit (and thanks) to my nephew Byron for the photo.
And in fact it WAS on my itenerary in June. For comments and more pictures, put Philips Exeter in the search box.
Tuesday, March 26, 2013
151. Wabasha, MN (SELCO)
I usually go to Wabasha for the National Eagle Center, but today was all about the library. It's not a large library, but very attractive and uses space well. The adult area is divided into informal areas for browsing and study, with a window wall that brightens the space. Large historic photos and a number of very detailed riverboat models above the shelves attest to the historic interests in this river town.
Two shelving practices that appeal to me are separating biographies in their own area and shelving non-fiction DVDs with the non-fiction books. I don't see either of these practices (especially the DVDs) very often in my travels, but I know that librarians are very sensitive to the needs of their patrons and the use of space, so I'm sure the practice at each library is "right" for that location.
I saw at least five public computers, and a tucked-away corner with a computer, microfilm reader, and other specialized materials for genealogical research.
The outstanding feature of the children's area is a collection of framed Book Week posters, currently from 1962 to 2012. They fill the space above the shelves on the three available sides, so... where will the 2013 poster go? I asked, and there currently is no answer. I have no doubt a creative solution will be found, and I may have to stop in again to see what is done. The book collection is not large, but looked well-balanced and quite up-to-date. My traveling friend and I spent a good bit of time looking at all the pictures in a book about Denmark that was on display. [Note: the picture of a house with a thatched roof is not a "typical Danish house."]
My other favorite in the children's area is a "sand table" with a clear top and bottom, sand between the layers, and magnets that can be used to move plastic "boats" around in the "water" (sand). There were no kids present when I was there, but I bet kids are drawn to this like (ahem) magnets.
3/26/2013 car
Two shelving practices that appeal to me are separating biographies in their own area and shelving non-fiction DVDs with the non-fiction books. I don't see either of these practices (especially the DVDs) very often in my travels, but I know that librarians are very sensitive to the needs of their patrons and the use of space, so I'm sure the practice at each library is "right" for that location.
I saw at least five public computers, and a tucked-away corner with a computer, microfilm reader, and other specialized materials for genealogical research.
The outstanding feature of the children's area is a collection of framed Book Week posters, currently from 1962 to 2012. They fill the space above the shelves on the three available sides, so... where will the 2013 poster go? I asked, and there currently is no answer. I have no doubt a creative solution will be found, and I may have to stop in again to see what is done. The book collection is not large, but looked well-balanced and quite up-to-date. My traveling friend and I spent a good bit of time looking at all the pictures in a book about Denmark that was on display. [Note: the picture of a house with a thatched roof is not a "typical Danish house."]
My other favorite in the children's area is a "sand table" with a clear top and bottom, sand between the layers, and magnets that can be used to move plastic "boats" around in the "water" (sand). There were no kids present when I was there, but I bet kids are drawn to this like (ahem) magnets.
3/26/2013 car
150. La Crosse, WI (Winding Rivers Library System)
[My apologies to the 11 visitors who reached this post before it was completed; welcome back. This is the first time I wasn't able to create a post on the same day I visited the library.]
This was my first visit to a Winding Rivers library. If this is a representative sample, WRLS must be a marvelous group of libraries, and I look forward to seeing others.
My attention was caught immediately by the handsome quilts hanging from the mezzanine, especially the one with the book motif. Quilts and libraries seem to go together--search the blog for "quilt" and you will find several other examples. Next I spotted a display about a new heirloom seed exchange; the information was good, the beautiful photos of produce even better. Perhaps it was the quilts that drew me upstairs to the adult non-fiction area. The mezzanine level overlooking the first floor had six large study carrels, about 5-6 feet wide. Very nice; a person could really spread out and work here.
Readers of the blog know I'm always on the lookout for interesting signs. I liked this one, which I believe was on the librarian's door: "Need help? If my door is open, I'm available to help you. If my door is shut, please ask for help at the reference desk." I turned away from the (closed) door and quickly found the sign above the reference desk. This seemed very respectful of the librarian's need to get work done and the patron's need to get help.
A narrow, one-sided cart at the end of one non-fiction shelf invited patrons to "Place books here for reshelving" and a stack of baskets were available for browsers carrying many books.
I spotted 32 public computers and a Wisconsin area with readers for microfilm and microfiche, as well as files of both formats and other Wisconsin materials. Across the building I saw an archives room for local history. The reference section pleased me; it's a long time since I've seen the likes of Facts on File (from 1941), volume after volume of Comtemporary Literary Criticism, the New York Times Index (1961 to 1993) and the Reader's Guide to Periodical Literature up to 2009. These works are "old friends" of mine; I'm sure that at some point space pressures will oust them in favor of all-computer research, but I'm glad someone is maintaining continuity for now.
Back on the main floor, I'm sorry to say that I bypassed the adult fiction area, drawn as I was to the covered bridge leading to the children's area, with its natural murals along the sides (see picture). The dominating feature inside the chidren's area is a river boat (the "reading boat") It's very impressive and realistic, with large doors that open to the inside of the "boat," which looks just like the inside of a boat and is the site of reading programs for kids. Opposite the boat is a wall of windows and other colorful features, like a four-sided set of carrels for kids' computers, with partitions that look like fish. (My memory says sailboats, my notes say fish; I hope one of those is correct!)
I like the practice of putting some books in their own labeled bins: Star Wars, Eyewitness, and Magic School Bus, in this case.
The Friends of the La Crosse Public Library have a separate room for their bookstore. It closed a few minutes before I arrived, but I was able to buy one of their tote bags at the circulation desk. Thanks, Friends--it matches my luggage!
If you want to see the river boat in the children's area, take a look at www.tinytipsforlibraryfun.blogspot.com. You'll have to scroll down a bit to see it.
3/26/2013 car
This was my first visit to a Winding Rivers library. If this is a representative sample, WRLS must be a marvelous group of libraries, and I look forward to seeing others.
My attention was caught immediately by the handsome quilts hanging from the mezzanine, especially the one with the book motif. Quilts and libraries seem to go together--search the blog for "quilt" and you will find several other examples. Next I spotted a display about a new heirloom seed exchange; the information was good, the beautiful photos of produce even better. Perhaps it was the quilts that drew me upstairs to the adult non-fiction area. The mezzanine level overlooking the first floor had six large study carrels, about 5-6 feet wide. Very nice; a person could really spread out and work here.
Readers of the blog know I'm always on the lookout for interesting signs. I liked this one, which I believe was on the librarian's door: "Need help? If my door is open, I'm available to help you. If my door is shut, please ask for help at the reference desk." I turned away from the (closed) door and quickly found the sign above the reference desk. This seemed very respectful of the librarian's need to get work done and the patron's need to get help.
A narrow, one-sided cart at the end of one non-fiction shelf invited patrons to "Place books here for reshelving" and a stack of baskets were available for browsers carrying many books.
I spotted 32 public computers and a Wisconsin area with readers for microfilm and microfiche, as well as files of both formats and other Wisconsin materials. Across the building I saw an archives room for local history. The reference section pleased me; it's a long time since I've seen the likes of Facts on File (from 1941), volume after volume of Comtemporary Literary Criticism, the New York Times Index (1961 to 1993) and the Reader's Guide to Periodical Literature up to 2009. These works are "old friends" of mine; I'm sure that at some point space pressures will oust them in favor of all-computer research, but I'm glad someone is maintaining continuity for now.
Back on the main floor, I'm sorry to say that I bypassed the adult fiction area, drawn as I was to the covered bridge leading to the children's area, with its natural murals along the sides (see picture). The dominating feature inside the chidren's area is a river boat (the "reading boat") It's very impressive and realistic, with large doors that open to the inside of the "boat," which looks just like the inside of a boat and is the site of reading programs for kids. Opposite the boat is a wall of windows and other colorful features, like a four-sided set of carrels for kids' computers, with partitions that look like fish. (My memory says sailboats, my notes say fish; I hope one of those is correct!)
I like the practice of putting some books in their own labeled bins: Star Wars, Eyewitness, and Magic School Bus, in this case.
The Friends of the La Crosse Public Library have a separate room for their bookstore. It closed a few minutes before I arrived, but I was able to buy one of their tote bags at the circulation desk. Thanks, Friends--it matches my luggage!
If you want to see the river boat in the children's area, take a look at www.tinytipsforlibraryfun.blogspot.com. You'll have to scroll down a bit to see it.
3/26/2013 car
Thursday, March 21, 2013
Whistler Library, British Columbia, Canada
OK, branching out a bit here. I have not personally visited this library, but my sister and brother-in-law gave it a good looking-over while on a ski vacation, and her write-up is so good, I'm going to post it.
-------------------------------
We visited the Whistler library today and what a wonderful place. Maybe I can emigrate and work here as a page after I really retire.
First off, it sits in prime real estate here in the middle of a busy multi season resort which says something about the commitment to library services. There are multiple hotels, shops and restaurants surrounding it. Built in 2008' it is the busiest library per capita in British Columbia!. It's easy to use for permanent and seasonal residents. If you are vacationing, ten dollars entitles you to borrow and return at any library. You can also get a BC 1 card and use any library in BC with it if you are a resident.
They have a large, many windowed children's room which was quite busy at 1130 this morning. Computers for kids use, easy to reach shelves, bright murals and a relaxed atmosphere made it very kid friendly.
There is a large AV section, a 12 computer room for adults, including a posted schedule of computer classes. They will even help you learn to use your iPad! Open stacks, study corners, meeting rooms, windows everywhere, it is a beautiful, functional place.
Bathrooms are open, not locked, spotless and large.
We were greeted by a woman asking if she could help with anything. Turns out she is a trustee who was paying her overdue fines! She hooked us up with a librarian at the circulation desk who answered many questions. During our look around, the library director (I think) Elizabeth found us and offered her assistance and also answered questions. We have decided that I should start a project of checking out libraries in resort areas. She said the one at Telluride CO is pretty fantastic.
By the way, at the entrance to the library there were 2 racks, a bike and a ski one!
Here is the basic picture which shows the bike and ski racks. The stones on the right have I believe, First Nation carvings.
-------------------------------
We visited the Whistler library today and what a wonderful place. Maybe I can emigrate and work here as a page after I really retire.
First off, it sits in prime real estate here in the middle of a busy multi season resort which says something about the commitment to library services. There are multiple hotels, shops and restaurants surrounding it. Built in 2008' it is the busiest library per capita in British Columbia!. It's easy to use for permanent and seasonal residents. If you are vacationing, ten dollars entitles you to borrow and return at any library. You can also get a BC 1 card and use any library in BC with it if you are a resident.
They have a large, many windowed children's room which was quite busy at 1130 this morning. Computers for kids use, easy to reach shelves, bright murals and a relaxed atmosphere made it very kid friendly.
There is a large AV section, a 12 computer room for adults, including a posted schedule of computer classes. They will even help you learn to use your iPad! Open stacks, study corners, meeting rooms, windows everywhere, it is a beautiful, functional place.
Bathrooms are open, not locked, spotless and large.
We were greeted by a woman asking if she could help with anything. Turns out she is a trustee who was paying her overdue fines! She hooked us up with a librarian at the circulation desk who answered many questions. During our look around, the library director (I think) Elizabeth found us and offered her assistance and also answered questions. We have decided that I should start a project of checking out libraries in resort areas. She said the one at Telluride CO is pretty fantastic.
By the way, at the entrance to the library there were 2 racks, a bike and a ski one!
Here is the basic picture which shows the bike and ski racks. The stones on the right have I believe, First Nation carvings.
Saturday, March 2, 2013
149. ECRL, Cambridge, MN
This is the headquarters of the East Central Regional Libraries. A sign on the bookdrop says "Please bring items in if the library is open. If bookdrop is full or the door is stuck, please take items home. Thanks for your cooperation." I meant to ask whether people were given a break on overdues if they had to take their items home, but of course I forgot.
Inflated planets hang from the ceiling in the children's area, and the top of the walls is lined with corkboard for displays. Children's CDs are displayed in plastic shoeboxes on their sides, on top of a low bookshelf. Just the right size! Picture books are in bins surrounding several sets of tables and chairs in bright colors. A sign says that children 5 ot 8 years old may be left unattended for nor more than 30 minutes, and the library cannot be responsible for children left unattended.
Restrooms are locked and the key must be obtained from the service desk. This is not the first place I've seen this, but it is uncommon.
I was intrigued to see that 6 shelves of adult non-fiction had shelves spaced to allow for tall books, just 5 shelves high, while the regular non-fiction shelves were 7 shelves high. It made the shelves look neater than usual, and except for having to be sure you were in the right place, I think it would simplify shelving. And I'm saying that as a person who does a lot of shelving!
A glass-fronted case holds old Minnesota books. A sunny browsing area for adults includes large soft chairs. I saw about a dozen computers for adults, but only a catalog computer in the kids' area.
My "something I haven't seen anywhere else" for this stop was posters with photos of library staff, including aides, naming their "favorite reads" and holding the books named. I spotted three of these posters, two on the end of shelves and one on a column; there may have been more.
3/2/13 car
Inflated planets hang from the ceiling in the children's area, and the top of the walls is lined with corkboard for displays. Children's CDs are displayed in plastic shoeboxes on their sides, on top of a low bookshelf. Just the right size! Picture books are in bins surrounding several sets of tables and chairs in bright colors. A sign says that children 5 ot 8 years old may be left unattended for nor more than 30 minutes, and the library cannot be responsible for children left unattended.
Restrooms are locked and the key must be obtained from the service desk. This is not the first place I've seen this, but it is uncommon.
I was intrigued to see that 6 shelves of adult non-fiction had shelves spaced to allow for tall books, just 5 shelves high, while the regular non-fiction shelves were 7 shelves high. It made the shelves look neater than usual, and except for having to be sure you were in the right place, I think it would simplify shelving. And I'm saying that as a person who does a lot of shelving!
A glass-fronted case holds old Minnesota books. A sunny browsing area for adults includes large soft chairs. I saw about a dozen computers for adults, but only a catalog computer in the kids' area.
My "something I haven't seen anywhere else" for this stop was posters with photos of library staff, including aides, naming their "favorite reads" and holding the books named. I spotted three of these posters, two on the end of shelves and one on a column; there may have been more.
3/2/13 car
148. ECRL, Mora, MN
Two wall displays caught my eye right away: "Books are eggciting" with an Easter egg theme, and "There's snow better time to read" with a winter theme. Kids have also contributed art; one wall above the bookshelves has works by junior high students, another by second graders. The staff told me that several teachers bring in their students' work from time to time.
Each library has something I've never seen before. In this case, it is a set of floor-level back-to-back shelves for picture books, topped with a fabric-covered piece of foam. I was told that kids love to sprawl on this soft surface with a book.
I was talking to staff about each library having something that sets it apart, and I mentioned the cake pans available in the Osage, Iowa, library. They told me that at least once, they have had a Mora patron request a cake pan through Interlibrary Loan! It wasn't clear whether this came from Osage, however. Then I mentioned the knitting needles and rubber stamps loaned by the Canaan, NH, library, and I saw a certain glint in their eyes. Maybe in the future...?
The "back" wall is a row of windows overlooking a (frozen) body of water. There is a small deck with stairs that go down to a bench. I hope there are chairs on the deck in warmer seasons. To the left is a playground in "Library Park."
I was most struck here by the neatness of the bookshelves, both kids and adults. I don't think a single book missed alignment with the front of its shelf by more than 1/8". When I asked staff how this was managed, the reply was "Lots of busy elves."
What caught my eye as I headed out of town past the civic center / fairgrounds made me certain that Mora has Swedish roots.
3/2/13 car
Each library has something I've never seen before. In this case, it is a set of floor-level back-to-back shelves for picture books, topped with a fabric-covered piece of foam. I was told that kids love to sprawl on this soft surface with a book.
I was talking to staff about each library having something that sets it apart, and I mentioned the cake pans available in the Osage, Iowa, library. They told me that at least once, they have had a Mora patron request a cake pan through Interlibrary Loan! It wasn't clear whether this came from Osage, however. Then I mentioned the knitting needles and rubber stamps loaned by the Canaan, NH, library, and I saw a certain glint in their eyes. Maybe in the future...?
The "back" wall is a row of windows overlooking a (frozen) body of water. There is a small deck with stairs that go down to a bench. I hope there are chairs on the deck in warmer seasons. To the left is a playground in "Library Park."
I was most struck here by the neatness of the bookshelves, both kids and adults. I don't think a single book missed alignment with the front of its shelf by more than 1/8". When I asked staff how this was managed, the reply was "Lots of busy elves."
What caught my eye as I headed out of town past the civic center / fairgrounds made me certain that Mora has Swedish roots.
3/2/13 car
147. East Central Region--Milaca, MN
An outside sculpture (see below) was created by a local artist, working with local school children. This library is very well provided with art. The lobby wall has a sculpture of a many-branched tree with stones beneath, an especially attractive way to honor donors. The children's area has three large wooden sculptures on the bookshelves, a river boat, a tall house of some sort, and what appeared to be a combined houseboat/sailboat. I should have asked! There is a rounded alcove near the picture book area, with an upholstered window seat and tall windows.
A very interesting display tell about the original library and city hall being housed in a 1936 WPA building. The current building dates to 2007, and continuity has been maintained in many ways, including: a color palette in the new building that reflects the old; a beautiful stone fireplace; and brilliant murals on the walls in the high central portion of the ceiling. The four panels represent early settlers and Indians; early days of the town; farming; and a school bus.
Near the adult browsing area is a coffee maker, apparently one of the "K-cup" things I've heard of. Is this what they mean by a "coffee cart" for the remodeled Shoreview library? I don't know, but I DO know that SV won't want to deal with "Purchase your cup and water at the circulation desk!" It does appear that one can choose coffee, tea, or hot chocolate, which is nice.
Curved wooden ends soften the utility of metal shelves. In fact, this library is full of curves! The teen area has a curved alcove with a attractive fantasy art on three panels, and a display of portraits that I would guess were done by a talented local teen.
Outside, a sign indicated that there is a shortgrass prairie under the snow. This is not the best season to visit libraries that have special landscaping!
3/2/13 car
A very interesting display tell about the original library and city hall being housed in a 1936 WPA building. The current building dates to 2007, and continuity has been maintained in many ways, including: a color palette in the new building that reflects the old; a beautiful stone fireplace; and brilliant murals on the walls in the high central portion of the ceiling. The four panels represent early settlers and Indians; early days of the town; farming; and a school bus.
Near the adult browsing area is a coffee maker, apparently one of the "K-cup" things I've heard of. Is this what they mean by a "coffee cart" for the remodeled Shoreview library? I don't know, but I DO know that SV won't want to deal with "Purchase your cup and water at the circulation desk!" It does appear that one can choose coffee, tea, or hot chocolate, which is nice.
Curved wooden ends soften the utility of metal shelves. In fact, this library is full of curves! The teen area has a curved alcove with a attractive fantasy art on three panels, and a display of portraits that I would guess were done by a talented local teen.
Outside, a sign indicated that there is a shortgrass prairie under the snow. This is not the best season to visit libraries that have special landscaping!
3/2/13 car
146. ECRL--Princeton, MN
Let's start in the lobby, where I saw a large community room with a meeting in session. I noticed a poster about the Legacy of Elmer Andersen, the 30th Governor of MN. It appears that 10 circular plaques about his life and accomplishments have been designed by an artist named Amy Sabrina. I thought I might see the actual plaques in the library, but I did not. Perhaps I missed them?
The kids' area has a cozy nook maybe 10' x 12', with two carpeted steps on two sides, murals on the walls, and an attractive fabric hanging. It was great to see a plaque that reads "We love our children. -- Princeton Friends of the Library." There's a long window wall that looks out on what I assume is a river; it's rather hard to be sure, since it's frozen over and snow-covered. There is also a puppet theater and a good collection of picture books and J fiction and non-fiction.
I saw 10 public computers. There are counters and chairs by some windows, but no obvious outlets for laptop computers. There's a teen area in a sunny window corner. An old-looking oak file cabinet is being used for a pamphlet file; I really like to see perfectly good older furniture still in use.
On the side of the building near the service desk is a browsing area with large windows, comfortable-looking chairs, and a magazine exchange.
I took a walk around the town and spotted a building that surely didn't start life as a dentist office; see below.
3/2/13 car
.JPG)
.JPG)
The kids' area has a cozy nook maybe 10' x 12', with two carpeted steps on two sides, murals on the walls, and an attractive fabric hanging. It was great to see a plaque that reads "We love our children. -- Princeton Friends of the Library." There's a long window wall that looks out on what I assume is a river; it's rather hard to be sure, since it's frozen over and snow-covered. There is also a puppet theater and a good collection of picture books and J fiction and non-fiction.
I saw 10 public computers. There are counters and chairs by some windows, but no obvious outlets for laptop computers. There's a teen area in a sunny window corner. An old-looking oak file cabinet is being used for a pamphlet file; I really like to see perfectly good older furniture still in use.
On the side of the building near the service desk is a browsing area with large windows, comfortable-looking chairs, and a magazine exchange.
I took a walk around the town and spotted a building that surely didn't start life as a dentist office; see below.
3/2/13 car
.JPG)
.JPG)
Tuesday, February 19, 2013
Rules, rules, rules
You may have noticed that I'm intrigued by signs I find in libraries, and often type them into my posts. A few times I've even included pictures. But now I've found a collection of library rules--and they always involve signs--that I want to share. Please, if you know of other rules or signs, add a comment.
http://mentalfloss.com/article/48843/9-very-specific-rules-real-libraries
[Thanks to MELSA, without which I wouldn't have found these rules.]
http://mentalfloss.com/article/48843/9-very-specific-rules-real-libraries
[Thanks to MELSA, without which I wouldn't have found these rules.]
Thursday, February 14, 2013
Which shall I revisit?
While I want to visit as many libraries as possible, I also know that some deserve a second look. Perhaps I was rushed; perhaps I didn't have a notebook with me.... Look around and tell me which deserve another look, OK? And if there's something specific I should look for, let me know.
Friday, February 1, 2013
122a. U of M Andersen Library: Special Collections, Special Storage
Today I realized a goal I've had for a long time--I saw the underground storage areas, carved out of limestone, that house the U of M special collections. I took pictures, but trust me, they don't begin to convey the size of the space or variety and sheer volume of the materials stored. I'll quote from the Archives and Special Collections brochure:
"The University of Minnesota Libraries' Department of Archives and Special Collections (ASC) collects and preserves an amazing array of materials that document our rich heritage and culture, ranging from 4000-year-old Babylonian clay tablets to the latest illustrated children's books, from the 1507 'map that named America' to costume and set designs for Guthrie Theater productions. While the materials must be used on site, the collections are available to anyone with a desire to explore, discover, and learn. ASC sponsors an active program of exhibitions, lectures, seminars, and symposia, most of which are free and open to the public. More detailed information about each of the collections, hours of access, and services can be found at http://special.lib.umn.edu."
If you'd like to see this for yourself, get over to the Andersen Library on the West Bank at noon on a "first Friday"--have some (free and tasty) lunch and hear a couple of short lectures about the different collections--then join a tour. Allow time to look at whatever exhibits are current, too.
2/1/2013 bus and walking
The soaring lobby of Andersen Library
These rows stretch the length of about 2 football fields and tower about 20 feet high!
"The University of Minnesota Libraries' Department of Archives and Special Collections (ASC) collects and preserves an amazing array of materials that document our rich heritage and culture, ranging from 4000-year-old Babylonian clay tablets to the latest illustrated children's books, from the 1507 'map that named America' to costume and set designs for Guthrie Theater productions. While the materials must be used on site, the collections are available to anyone with a desire to explore, discover, and learn. ASC sponsors an active program of exhibitions, lectures, seminars, and symposia, most of which are free and open to the public. More detailed information about each of the collections, hours of access, and services can be found at http://special.lib.umn.edu."
If you'd like to see this for yourself, get over to the Andersen Library on the West Bank at noon on a "first Friday"--have some (free and tasty) lunch and hear a couple of short lectures about the different collections--then join a tour. Allow time to look at whatever exhibits are current, too.
2/1/2013 bus and walking
The soaring lobby of Andersen Library
These rows stretch the length of about 2 football fields and tower about 20 feet high!
Wednesday, January 30, 2013
Patience and Fortitude!
In my visits to libraries around Minnesota and (slightly) beyond, I have seen relatively new buildings, like Elk River and the three visited in East Central Minnesota. I've seen renovated and remodeled buildings, like Roseville in Ramsey County. Old buildings, like St. Bonifacius in Hennepin County. Huge buildings like Minneapolis Central and Ridgedale. Carnegie buildings enlarged to (try and) meet current needs, like Little Falls and Minneapolis' Sumner, Franklin, and Hosmer. But the scale of the issues facing the central library in New York City, described in the article, boggle the mind. Patience and Fortitude, indeed.
http://www.nytimes.com/2013/01/30/arts/design/norman-fosters-public-library-will-need-structural-magic.html?pagewanted=2&_r=0&nl=todaysheadlines&emc=edit_th_20130130
http://www.nytimes.com/2013/01/30/arts/design/norman-fosters-public-library-will-need-structural-magic.html?pagewanted=2&_r=0&nl=todaysheadlines&emc=edit_th_20130130
Thursday, January 17, 2013
145. ECRL--Wyoming, MN
The tone of this library was set before I even set foot in the door, when a departing patron gave me a big smile and hello as I approached. That's a first! The two staff I talked to (for a long time) were equally friendly. Yay, Wyoming!
I saw a couple of posters in the lobby that interested me. One made sense of a sign I saw earlier in the day; from January through to summer, different reading mascots, like Clifford and Llama Llama, are going to be visiting the ECRL libraries. In the summer, a new ECRL mascot will be introduced. Cool--I should try to be there for that.
The other poster was about World Book Night (www.worldbooknight.org), which this year will be on April 23. I haven't been to that website yet, but I shall get there. I'd never heard of this event before.
This is another in the trio of long rectagular libraries I visited today, but in this case the entrance is on a short side. And as soon as I entered the door, I was enchanted by the "Reading Railroad"--see the picture below. This curved train was created, I learned, by a local Eagle Scout; on the other side is a curved counter with three computers for kids. It's a very attractive and inviting way to set off the kids' area. [I also learned that Eagle Scouts were responsble for the flagpole and some benches.]
The walls are enlivened by large book-cover posters and painted quotations. The fireplace was on, and a few large plants added to the "living room" feeling of the adult browsing area. There are at least two small study rooms, and a large meeting room. And very, very nice staff. Not that the staff at other libraries aren't nice; I'm always nervous when I say things about staff, that folks from other libraries will think I didn't like them or something. Not at all. But we had a long, wide-ranging conversation here, and I enjoyed it a lot.
1/17/13, car
I was strongly encouraged to return in the summer to see the rain gardens in bloom, and so I did. Pictures have been added below.
8/13/2013, car
I saw a couple of posters in the lobby that interested me. One made sense of a sign I saw earlier in the day; from January through to summer, different reading mascots, like Clifford and Llama Llama, are going to be visiting the ECRL libraries. In the summer, a new ECRL mascot will be introduced. Cool--I should try to be there for that.
The other poster was about World Book Night (www.worldbooknight.org), which this year will be on April 23. I haven't been to that website yet, but I shall get there. I'd never heard of this event before.
This is another in the trio of long rectagular libraries I visited today, but in this case the entrance is on a short side. And as soon as I entered the door, I was enchanted by the "Reading Railroad"--see the picture below. This curved train was created, I learned, by a local Eagle Scout; on the other side is a curved counter with three computers for kids. It's a very attractive and inviting way to set off the kids' area. [I also learned that Eagle Scouts were responsble for the flagpole and some benches.]
The walls are enlivened by large book-cover posters and painted quotations. The fireplace was on, and a few large plants added to the "living room" feeling of the adult browsing area. There are at least two small study rooms, and a large meeting room. And very, very nice staff. Not that the staff at other libraries aren't nice; I'm always nervous when I say things about staff, that folks from other libraries will think I didn't like them or something. Not at all. But we had a long, wide-ranging conversation here, and I enjoyed it a lot.
1/17/13, car
I was strongly encouraged to return in the summer to see the rain gardens in bloom, and so I did. Pictures have been added below.
8/13/2013, car
144. ECRL North Branch
Before I even got past the lobby, I saw three signs that I like. First, "Library personnel are not authorized to give tax advice." For sure! Second, "Please turn off cell phones before entering the library." I wonder if anyone sees that, or complies? At any rate, it's direct, not like "please use cell phones responsibly". And the third, in the photo below, is one I wish could be posted where I work.
This library is a wide rectangle, like Chisago Lakes, but laid out with the fireplace straight ahead, on the long wall, which seemed very inviting. The visual impact was muted somewhat by having a computer and low-vision adaptive equipment in the foreground, but they are important, too. I saw a display of "Very Short, Very Stimulating, Introductions" from Oxford University Press. There must have been several dozen small paperbacks on all sorts of topics. I've never seen these before, and they intrigued me. I must see if they are available in MELSA, my home district.
The windows provided a natural view; there are houses, but they are quite far away. Single-person study tables are ranged along the windows. One corner has a large study table and a variety of comfortable-looking seating.
The tops of the shelves in the children's area are decorated with a variety of old books combined in different ways with small stuffed animals; these are very clever and attractive. Two spaces in the kids' area are defined by shelves, and each holds a table and four chairs. There is a long alcove with a low counter and three computers for kids to use.
A teen area has a couple of floor chairs and some upholstered chairs with armrests designed for writing or holding a laptop. There are six computers for adults in a row across from the information/circulation desk.
At this site, I discovered that there are four spacious unisex restrooms in the lobby, bright and clean with blue and gold tiles. I'll take a guess that the other libraries visited today have the same facilities. As one who visits libraries frequently, I applaud the presence of clean restrooms everywhere I go!
1/17/13
This library is a wide rectangle, like Chisago Lakes, but laid out with the fireplace straight ahead, on the long wall, which seemed very inviting. The visual impact was muted somewhat by having a computer and low-vision adaptive equipment in the foreground, but they are important, too. I saw a display of "Very Short, Very Stimulating, Introductions" from Oxford University Press. There must have been several dozen small paperbacks on all sorts of topics. I've never seen these before, and they intrigued me. I must see if they are available in MELSA, my home district.
The windows provided a natural view; there are houses, but they are quite far away. Single-person study tables are ranged along the windows. One corner has a large study table and a variety of comfortable-looking seating.
The tops of the shelves in the children's area are decorated with a variety of old books combined in different ways with small stuffed animals; these are very clever and attractive. Two spaces in the kids' area are defined by shelves, and each holds a table and four chairs. There is a long alcove with a low counter and three computers for kids to use.
A teen area has a couple of floor chairs and some upholstered chairs with armrests designed for writing or holding a laptop. There are six computers for adults in a row across from the information/circulation desk.
At this site, I discovered that there are four spacious unisex restrooms in the lobby, bright and clean with blue and gold tiles. I'll take a guess that the other libraries visited today have the same facilities. As one who visits libraries frequently, I applaud the presence of clean restrooms everywhere I go!
1/17/13
143. ECRL Chisago Lakes
The opposite end of the large rectangular space has a handsome fireplace, a "living room" seating arrangement, and a sink; refreshments? Along the long window wall are five wooden study tables, each seating four, interspersed with comfortable reading chairs. There's a Minnesota Collection, and I saw a framed pronouncement recognizing the 50th anniversary of the East Central Regional Library. I learned at another stop that the anniversary was several years ago--and that ECRL was the first region to form in Minnesota. Now, the whole state is divided into regions that encompass several counties each.
All three libraries I visited today were built at the same time, about 8 years ago, and designed by the same architect. That is easy to see--but each has its own personality!
1/17/13 car
Wednesday, January 16, 2013
Wave of the Future?
Here's a library I haven't visited, though I'd like to. In my experience, libraries these days are hybrids, offering most of what this article describes alongside traditional print services.
So, readers of the blog, what do you think of this trend? I'd really like to know.
Sorry the url below doesn't seem to work as a link; you'll have to copy and paste.
http://www.npr.org/2013/01/15/169412670/a-new-chapter-a-launch-of-the-bookless-library
So, readers of the blog, what do you think of this trend? I'd really like to know.
Sorry the url below doesn't seem to work as a link; you'll have to copy and paste.
http://www.npr.org/2013/01/15/169412670/a-new-chapter-a-launch-of-the-bookless-library
Monday, January 7, 2013
142. SELCO--Red Wing, MN
The first thing I noticed was a storytime alcove that can be closed off from the rest of the library with folding walls. It has a single step down that creates a focus on the storyteller's chair and a long row of low seating for little kids. Very nice. Another part of the children's area has a large aquarium (a donation "in memory of"), a bright rug, a rocker, soft seating, and a window wall. Colorful fabric panels shade one section of windows.
I had to step back from the kids area to see the bright murals high on three sides of the wall; a staff person told me that they were provided through a grant. They're very attractive and lively.
This library has more children's periodicals than I've noticed anywhere else; I counted 25 titles! Just about every children's magazine I've ever heard of is represented.
Art prints displayed on the library walls can be checked out for 60 days.
A lobby (not the way I entered) has restrooms, a city bus stop, and a public pay telephone. These are all indications that the library is, or means to be, the heart of the town.
Some other random noticings: There is a fantastic model of the HMS Victory on display. The youth section has "diner" seating. Signs marking parts of the non-fiction collection stick out over the aisles almost like street signs; this is hard to describe, and I haven't seen anything like it before. There is a reading garden with a couple of adirondack chairs. There is a dedicated computer for downloading e-books, a shiny copper roof that looks new, and a walker with a basket for patrons who need it.
The circulation and reference desks are combined in the center of the library. A staff member told me that they believe in cross-training and blurring the lines between categories of staff. Nice.
1/7/2013 car
I had to step back from the kids area to see the bright murals high on three sides of the wall; a staff person told me that they were provided through a grant. They're very attractive and lively.
This library has more children's periodicals than I've noticed anywhere else; I counted 25 titles! Just about every children's magazine I've ever heard of is represented.
Art prints displayed on the library walls can be checked out for 60 days.
A lobby (not the way I entered) has restrooms, a city bus stop, and a public pay telephone. These are all indications that the library is, or means to be, the heart of the town.
Some other random noticings: There is a fantastic model of the HMS Victory on display. The youth section has "diner" seating. Signs marking parts of the non-fiction collection stick out over the aisles almost like street signs; this is hard to describe, and I haven't seen anything like it before. There is a reading garden with a couple of adirondack chairs. There is a dedicated computer for downloading e-books, a shiny copper roof that looks new, and a walker with a basket for patrons who need it.
The circulation and reference desks are combined in the center of the library. A staff member told me that they believe in cross-training and blurring the lines between categories of staff. Nice.
1/7/2013 car
141. MORE -- Ellsworth, WI
This is a small library, in a small town. To the left of the entrance is a sunny room for periodical and reference browsing. A sign said that patrons must use their own library card in order to use the computer; they are available for 30 minutes, with a 30-minute extension if nobody is waiting. Maximum in one day, 60 minutes.
When I spotted a sign that said "Ask librarian for help to reach books on the top shelves," I had to walk over to the shelves. The top one is well over six feet high!
A large table in front of a sunny window held plants and a collection of wooden puzzles and games.
Like River Falls, Ellsworth has a LEGO club; I didn't see any models, but there were pictures on the window of the librarian's office. A picture book area has a neat dollhouse / treehouse (Melissa and Doug style), other toys, and toy-and-book and puppet-and-book bags to check out. A sign in this area says "Reading together 20 minutes a day is the most important gift you can give your child." So true, and it's so important to keep reminding parents of this.
The library has a collection bin for lightly used children's winter wear. There are regular story hours of several types, and there will be a book signing on Wednesday the 9th. (Oops, didn't write the author's name in my notebook!)
I invariably find that the smaller libraries have programming that is just as dynamic and valuable as their larger cousins. Ellesworth is a good example.
1/7/2013 car
When I spotted a sign that said "Ask librarian for help to reach books on the top shelves," I had to walk over to the shelves. The top one is well over six feet high!
A large table in front of a sunny window held plants and a collection of wooden puzzles and games.
Like River Falls, Ellsworth has a LEGO club; I didn't see any models, but there were pictures on the window of the librarian's office. A picture book area has a neat dollhouse / treehouse (Melissa and Doug style), other toys, and toy-and-book and puppet-and-book bags to check out. A sign in this area says "Reading together 20 minutes a day is the most important gift you can give your child." So true, and it's so important to keep reminding parents of this.
The library has a collection bin for lightly used children's winter wear. There are regular story hours of several types, and there will be a book signing on Wednesday the 9th. (Oops, didn't write the author's name in my notebook!)
I invariably find that the smaller libraries have programming that is just as dynamic and valuable as their larger cousins. Ellesworth is a good example.
1/7/2013 car
140. MORE - River Falls, WI
This is quite a large library, and seems fairly new. An alcove inside the front door is dedicated to local history; it seems to have a lot of material, compared to other libraries with similar collections. Right outside it were some books for sale, and some free periodicals--thanks for the two issues of Library Journal, I'll pass them along when I've read them.
The computer room is a long, narrow space with windows facing the children's area. I think there are about 12 computers here for adults. It looks like a nice arrangement.
Heading for the children's area, I first noticed a large column, about 3' in diameter, painted with numbers (both numerals and words in several languages) and animals, all the way to the ceiling. That drew my eyes up to a bright band of colors around the wall just below the ceiling, and a vaulted ceiling also painted in bright colors. Very nice! There are five computers for kids, and paperback series books are shelved in revolving racks. Some large plastic bins are labeled "China," "Food," and "Gardening I." I didn't peek.
The highlight of the children's space, for me, was a large windowed alcove lined with upholstered benches and "guarded" by two impressively large fabric dragons. I'm sure these colorful creatures are more effective at drawing kids in that at keeping them out. Signs indicated that the library hosts LEGO Fun on Thursdays for grades K-5. There were display cases with LEGO projects; I was sorry to see, based on the names, that they all seemed to be done by boys. No girls build with LEGOs in River Falls?
The Marita Hallquist Children's Program Room is a separate space with doors, handy when children's programs get loud--and they always do. Today, shortly after opening, it was hosting an adult craft program.
I particularly liked the signage; I could stand in the middle of the library and easily read large signs near the ceiling indicating where to find FICTION, LARGE PRINT, CIRCULATION, etc. Standing in the center like that, I felt that the library was very large and open; walking around, however, it seemed to be made up of many separate spaces.
The teen area features a photomural of a river with a falls (coincidence? I doubt it) and lots of foliage, plus a large live plant. There are upholstered chairs, windows, and a notice about a teen book club.
There is a large adult reading/browsing area with a curved wall of windows, more large plants, and good seating. A lot of the chairs and carrels have a classic oak look that would not be out of place in a Carnegie library. The metal bookshelves are softened by wooden ends, again with a classic look.
On my way out I saw some notices on a computer in the lobby. Here I learned that one can check out laptops for use in the library, recycle batteries and printer cartridges, try out a variety of e-readers, and print from anywhere at the library--then come in to pick up your print job. Nice service.
Not a library thing, but a town thing (and I've seen it a few other places): safety-orange flags available at intersections, so pedestrians can help themselves cross safely. Nice idea!
1/7/2113
The computer room is a long, narrow space with windows facing the children's area. I think there are about 12 computers here for adults. It looks like a nice arrangement.
Heading for the children's area, I first noticed a large column, about 3' in diameter, painted with numbers (both numerals and words in several languages) and animals, all the way to the ceiling. That drew my eyes up to a bright band of colors around the wall just below the ceiling, and a vaulted ceiling also painted in bright colors. Very nice! There are five computers for kids, and paperback series books are shelved in revolving racks. Some large plastic bins are labeled "China," "Food," and "Gardening I." I didn't peek.
The highlight of the children's space, for me, was a large windowed alcove lined with upholstered benches and "guarded" by two impressively large fabric dragons. I'm sure these colorful creatures are more effective at drawing kids in that at keeping them out. Signs indicated that the library hosts LEGO Fun on Thursdays for grades K-5. There were display cases with LEGO projects; I was sorry to see, based on the names, that they all seemed to be done by boys. No girls build with LEGOs in River Falls?
The Marita Hallquist Children's Program Room is a separate space with doors, handy when children's programs get loud--and they always do. Today, shortly after opening, it was hosting an adult craft program.
I particularly liked the signage; I could stand in the middle of the library and easily read large signs near the ceiling indicating where to find FICTION, LARGE PRINT, CIRCULATION, etc. Standing in the center like that, I felt that the library was very large and open; walking around, however, it seemed to be made up of many separate spaces.
The teen area features a photomural of a river with a falls (coincidence? I doubt it) and lots of foliage, plus a large live plant. There are upholstered chairs, windows, and a notice about a teen book club.
There is a large adult reading/browsing area with a curved wall of windows, more large plants, and good seating. A lot of the chairs and carrels have a classic oak look that would not be out of place in a Carnegie library. The metal bookshelves are softened by wooden ends, again with a classic look.
On my way out I saw some notices on a computer in the lobby. Here I learned that one can check out laptops for use in the library, recycle batteries and printer cartridges, try out a variety of e-readers, and print from anywhere at the library--then come in to pick up your print job. Nice service.
Not a library thing, but a town thing (and I've seen it a few other places): safety-orange flags available at intersections, so pedestrians can help themselves cross safely. Nice idea!
1/7/2113
Tuesday, January 1, 2013
Not Quite Chicago
My plan had been to visit the Chicago Central library between trains; there is a scheduled four- or five-hour stop between the Lakeshore Limited and the Empire Builder. Alas, AMTRAK and the snowy weather in New York and Ohio had another idea, and I barely had time to find the gate for the Empire Builder; no time to walk even the few blocks it would have taken. Maybe next year.
On the way out of Chicago, the train stopped briefly right across from a new-looking library. I have no idea where we were at the time, in some suburb I'm sure, but it was a handsome modern building with a curved glass wall surrounding a bright atrium. If anyone knows what I was seeing, let me know--I'd like to visit!
I realized FAR too late--like just recently--that I could have a) pulled out my GPS, which I did have with me, and noted the lat and long of the stop, and b) taken a picture through the train window. Any bright ideas about how to have bright ideas in the moment, not weeks later?
On the way out of Chicago, the train stopped briefly right across from a new-looking library. I have no idea where we were at the time, in some suburb I'm sure, but it was a handsome modern building with a curved glass wall surrounding a bright atrium. If anyone knows what I was seeing, let me know--I'd like to visit!
I realized FAR too late--like just recently--that I could have a) pulled out my GPS, which I did have with me, and noted the lat and long of the stop, and b) taken a picture through the train window. Any bright ideas about how to have bright ideas in the moment, not weeks later?
139. Boston Central Public Library--Briefly!
Well, I've been putting off writing this one because the cord that goes from the camera to the computer is hiding again. But what the heck--I've once more grabbed a placeholder from the web. I made my brief visit between a bus ride from Concord, NH to Boston, and my train ride from Boston to St. Paul.
It's no surprise that this building is huge and gorgeous. I entered what I think was the main front door, and had to get directions to the children's room. (No sign in this lobby, and it later became apparent that I "should" have entered by a different door.) It wasn't obvious from the outside that the building surrounds a handsome central courtyard. On my way through the courtyard from the center of one side to the far-right corner, I passed a pretty fancy café; I gather that events can be held in the courtyard and catered on site.
I got glimpses of large rooms with many public computers, shelves and shelves of books on the ground floor (where I was), a mezzanine level, and at least one floor more. Finally, I reached the Margaret and H. A. Rey Children's Room. The room is not terribly large, but perhaps that perception is colored by the many large, fancy strollers parked seemingly everywhere. There are two window walls, shielded by tall concrete panels from the public sidewalk immediately outside .
In addition to the usual collection of E and J books, I thought that one clever use of space (and old equipment) was storing "big" books in a map/atlas cabinet with sliding shelves. There was also a horizontal file holding posters. Three stuffed bears in graduated sizes were wearing "Read Your Way to Fenway--Boston Public Library" T-shirts, probably reminders of a past summer reading program. Space was so limited in the children's room that holiday books and all the J media were shelved in space outside that area, but still close by.
And then I had to dash back to South Station to catch my train! I must visit again.
12/27/2012 bus, walking
Add a bit of snow, some ice, and a half-dozen or so evergreen wreaths...
It's no surprise that this building is huge and gorgeous. I entered what I think was the main front door, and had to get directions to the children's room. (No sign in this lobby, and it later became apparent that I "should" have entered by a different door.) It wasn't obvious from the outside that the building surrounds a handsome central courtyard. On my way through the courtyard from the center of one side to the far-right corner, I passed a pretty fancy café; I gather that events can be held in the courtyard and catered on site.
I got glimpses of large rooms with many public computers, shelves and shelves of books on the ground floor (where I was), a mezzanine level, and at least one floor more. Finally, I reached the Margaret and H. A. Rey Children's Room. The room is not terribly large, but perhaps that perception is colored by the many large, fancy strollers parked seemingly everywhere. There are two window walls, shielded by tall concrete panels from the public sidewalk immediately outside .
In addition to the usual collection of E and J books, I thought that one clever use of space (and old equipment) was storing "big" books in a map/atlas cabinet with sliding shelves. There was also a horizontal file holding posters. Three stuffed bears in graduated sizes were wearing "Read Your Way to Fenway--Boston Public Library" T-shirts, probably reminders of a past summer reading program. Space was so limited in the children's room that holiday books and all the J media were shelved in space outside that area, but still close by.
And then I had to dash back to South Station to catch my train! I must visit again.
12/27/2012 bus, walking
Add a bit of snow, some ice, and a half-dozen or so evergreen wreaths...
Thursday, December 27, 2012
138. Concord New Hampshire Public Library
I'm here in New Hampshire for Christmas; a snowstorm this morning kept me inside, so when my brother in law offered to drive me to town in mid-afternoon, I was ready to go. This library has changed a lot since it was "my" library around 1970. It was not busy today, which is not surprising, probably because of the heavy snowfall.
The first floor is for adults. There are many distinct spaces, for non-fiction, fiction, periodicals, computers, etc. A large group of drawers for vertical files are something I've rarely seen in my travels so far. Signage in the non-fiction area seems especially clear. I liked the sign I saw on the end of one shelf: "Why should I have to tell you--you should just know! Marriage 306.8 Your library card--the best value in town." I hoped to see some others like this, but didn't spot any.
There seemed to be many new books, including large print books, displayed in the middle of the building.
A table near the computers has signs "Wait here for computers." and "Computers are first come first served." I saw no indication of time limits for the computers; I wonder how that works out?
A few random things I liked on the main floor: A sign thanking individuals, some anonymous, for contributing the cost of specific periodicals. A table for filling out library card registration forms; this must save some time at the circulation desk. A sign indicating that staff would get items from storage if given the needed info. Nice, but it means the collection is not readily available to patrons. There's a very nice tile mural over the exit door. And the lower level has vending machines and tables where patrons can eat.
The children's area is upstairs. There are painted murals on many walls. This verse is above a beautiful fireplace surrounded by blue tiles:
Books are keys to wisdom's treasure.
Books are gates to lands of pleasure.
Books are paths that upward lead.
Books are friends. Come let us read.
The children's space is very open and light, with a variety of murals and displays. There are eight computers, and several were being used.
12/27/12 car
The picture is from the web because my camera misfunctioned. I apologize to whoever I swiped it from, it obviously doesn't show 8" of snow, and I promise to replace it with my own picture next summer.
The first floor is for adults. There are many distinct spaces, for non-fiction, fiction, periodicals, computers, etc. A large group of drawers for vertical files are something I've rarely seen in my travels so far. Signage in the non-fiction area seems especially clear. I liked the sign I saw on the end of one shelf: "Why should I have to tell you--you should just know! Marriage 306.8 Your library card--the best value in town." I hoped to see some others like this, but didn't spot any.
There seemed to be many new books, including large print books, displayed in the middle of the building.
A table near the computers has signs "Wait here for computers." and "Computers are first come first served." I saw no indication of time limits for the computers; I wonder how that works out?
A few random things I liked on the main floor: A sign thanking individuals, some anonymous, for contributing the cost of specific periodicals. A table for filling out library card registration forms; this must save some time at the circulation desk. A sign indicating that staff would get items from storage if given the needed info. Nice, but it means the collection is not readily available to patrons. There's a very nice tile mural over the exit door. And the lower level has vending machines and tables where patrons can eat.
The children's area is upstairs. There are painted murals on many walls. This verse is above a beautiful fireplace surrounded by blue tiles:
Books are keys to wisdom's treasure.
Books are gates to lands of pleasure.
Books are paths that upward lead.
Books are friends. Come let us read.
The children's space is very open and light, with a variety of murals and displays. There are eight computers, and several were being used.
12/27/12 car
The picture is from the web because my camera misfunctioned. I apologize to whoever I swiped it from, it obviously doesn't show 8" of snow, and I promise to replace it with my own picture next summer.
Where I got my start
Here is a picture of the Nashua (NH) Public Library, taken in the 1950s--the era when I was working there as a high school "library page," 1954 to 1958. I was followed in that role by my sister Jean, and later by my mother, who worked for years as a reference librarian.
In the picture, the stacks, three levels, are on the left, reading room on the right, children's area below the reading room. And no, kids were not welcome upstairs in the adult area.
If you look at this picture and think "That doesn't look like a very practical, functional library building," you'd be right, though it worked OK for its time. It was replaced in the 60s by a concrete bunker that is still in use today. At least the old one had character.
Plans for 2013
(Updated halfway through the year, early July.)
* Finish visiting branches in Great River and Selco (maybe not all of them)
* Finish visiting branches in MORE (ditto)
* Return to MELSA branches where my notes were puny or non-existent (working on this)
* Visit libraries in WI, MI, NY, and NH during my annual summer trip; perhaps even Ontario! (visited 25 libraries in 11 days, including one in Vermont, two in Ontario)
* Visit the WI library that a librarian in Stillwater, MN, said is "fantastic"; I have the name at home--I know it starts with V. (I believe that's Verona, and there's one nearby that turned up on the "Libaries and Ice Cream" list. They are close to each other, and are slated for a road trip in late July or early August, to coincide with the Lands End sale in Dodgeville.)
And if the train schedule and the weather cooperate, I'll visit the main Chicago library Saturday morning, on my way home to MN from NH. (Cross your fingers; the Amtrak track record is not so good.)
Other "must see" libraries you want to suggest? Comments welcome.
* Finish visiting branches in Great River and Selco (maybe not all of them)
* Finish visiting branches in MORE (ditto)
* Return to MELSA branches where my notes were puny or non-existent (working on this)
* Visit libraries in WI, MI, NY, and NH during my annual summer trip; perhaps even Ontario! (visited 25 libraries in 11 days, including one in Vermont, two in Ontario)
* Visit the WI library that a librarian in Stillwater, MN, said is "fantastic"; I have the name at home--I know it starts with V. (I believe that's Verona, and there's one nearby that turned up on the "Libaries and Ice Cream" list. They are close to each other, and are slated for a road trip in late July or early August, to coincide with the Lands End sale in Dodgeville.)
And if the train schedule and the weather cooperate, I'll visit the main Chicago library Saturday morning, on my way home to MN from NH. (Cross your fingers; the Amtrak track record is not so good.)
Other "must see" libraries you want to suggest? Comments welcome.
Wednesday, December 19, 2012
137. Great River--Clearwater
This is a storefront library, and it's much larger than I guessed from the outside. I learned that the library moved here last June from a smaller space, and part of the open feeling is that the old shelves and other furniture are now spread out.
The welcome starts right inside the door, where the Friends of the Library have a magazine exchange, with a small table and two chairs. A table in the very center of the space appeared to have materials for a kids' art project, but there were no kids; I was there during school hours, which happens all too often.
There is a pleasant browsing area near the windows with chairs, newspapers, biographies, periodicals, and new books. A teen area has a computer just for teens (there are also computers for adults), a world map, a chess board set up ready to go, and a selection of books including graphic novels and manga.
A very large animal-themed quilt hangs by the children's area; in front of it is a row of kid-sized chairs, each with a storybook character doll (Raggedy Ann, for example)sitting on it. There is also a kid-sized rocker, and I saw a bin of Spanish books that appeared to be all or mostly for kids.
After making the rounds, I met the librarian, who spotted me as "the blogger." She had the blog on her Favorites list--what a treat for me! We talked about different branches I've visited, and I was surprised at how many MELSA libraries she's worked at. I learned that one unusual thing about Clearwater is that it's financially supported by six surrounding towns. Over and over I see these examples of how much libraries are valued. Another sign of the value placed on the Clearwater library (or, I should say, the Stickney Crossing Library) is the beautiful eye-catching quilt behind the circulation desk. Fantastic!
I like maps, and Clearwater has five globes, two large "in memory of" floor models, two that live on top of the shelves, and one that has a handle added to the top, in order to serve as a treasure box for the summer reading program. What a great idea!
Before I left, a first: the librarian took MY picture standing outside HER library. An honor!
12/19/2012, car
The welcome starts right inside the door, where the Friends of the Library have a magazine exchange, with a small table and two chairs. A table in the very center of the space appeared to have materials for a kids' art project, but there were no kids; I was there during school hours, which happens all too often.
There is a pleasant browsing area near the windows with chairs, newspapers, biographies, periodicals, and new books. A teen area has a computer just for teens (there are also computers for adults), a world map, a chess board set up ready to go, and a selection of books including graphic novels and manga.
A very large animal-themed quilt hangs by the children's area; in front of it is a row of kid-sized chairs, each with a storybook character doll (Raggedy Ann, for example)sitting on it. There is also a kid-sized rocker, and I saw a bin of Spanish books that appeared to be all or mostly for kids.
After making the rounds, I met the librarian, who spotted me as "the blogger." She had the blog on her Favorites list--what a treat for me! We talked about different branches I've visited, and I was surprised at how many MELSA libraries she's worked at. I learned that one unusual thing about Clearwater is that it's financially supported by six surrounding towns. Over and over I see these examples of how much libraries are valued. Another sign of the value placed on the Clearwater library (or, I should say, the Stickney Crossing Library) is the beautiful eye-catching quilt behind the circulation desk. Fantastic!
I like maps, and Clearwater has five globes, two large "in memory of" floor models, two that live on top of the shelves, and one that has a handle added to the top, in order to serve as a treasure box for the summer reading program. What a great idea!
Before I left, a first: the librarian took MY picture standing outside HER library. An honor!
12/19/2012, car
136. Great River--Cold Spring
OK, the first thing I spotted was a sign: "Do not use your cell phone in the library." I like that. I can assure you that signs about using phones "appropriately" have no effect whatsoever. I also like "Please do not reshelve books." I'd often like to add "especially if you think that putting them on the end of the shelf, to the right of the bookend, is helpful. It is not." [Nope, my boss won't let me say that.]
This is a multi-purpose building: city hall, police, fire, and library. Great use of space, though I understand that the library is outgrowing its allotment, and a larger space is being sought.
The library space is generally divided along its long axis, kids' to the right, adults to the left, a youth area joining the two at the far end, and three computers in the center. A nice big window looks out toward the entrance sidewalk; you can see it in the picture below. The children's area has a low round table with some cute upholstered wooden chairs.
There's a small staff area and workspace near the entrance, and here I found four of the most pleasant staff I've run into in my travels. As soon as I told one staff person that "my hobby is visiting libraries," she wanted to know if I am the blogger. Guilty as charged! So we all chatted about the blog for a bit. Then I learned that I really should have lunch at Marnanteli's, across the main highway from the Holiday station, and I really MUST visit the Cold Spring Bakery. Well, when a librarian gives you advice, it's wise to listen. I had a cheeseburger with tater tots (can't remember when I last had tater tots), then walked to the bakery and left with assorted cookies and bars--in a brown cardboard box like I haven't seen since my family brought goodies home from Crosby's Bakery in Nashua, NH. Thanks for the tips, ladies!
12/19/2012, car
This is a multi-purpose building: city hall, police, fire, and library. Great use of space, though I understand that the library is outgrowing its allotment, and a larger space is being sought.
The library space is generally divided along its long axis, kids' to the right, adults to the left, a youth area joining the two at the far end, and three computers in the center. A nice big window looks out toward the entrance sidewalk; you can see it in the picture below. The children's area has a low round table with some cute upholstered wooden chairs.
There's a small staff area and workspace near the entrance, and here I found four of the most pleasant staff I've run into in my travels. As soon as I told one staff person that "my hobby is visiting libraries," she wanted to know if I am the blogger. Guilty as charged! So we all chatted about the blog for a bit. Then I learned that I really should have lunch at Marnanteli's, across the main highway from the Holiday station, and I really MUST visit the Cold Spring Bakery. Well, when a librarian gives you advice, it's wise to listen. I had a cheeseburger with tater tots (can't remember when I last had tater tots), then walked to the bakery and left with assorted cookies and bars--in a brown cardboard box like I haven't seen since my family brought goodies home from Crosby's Bakery in Nashua, NH. Thanks for the tips, ladies!
12/19/2012, car
135. Great River--Richmond, MN
A single square space, one of the smaller I've seen, but with windows, which always make a space seem larger and friendlier, in my opinion.
Speaking of friendly, what would welcome little kids better than the low table full of Duplo blocks and related toys? This table is surrounded by books, of course--bins of picture books, shelves of J's.
Media includes VHS, DVD, CD, and audiocassettes. I spotted 4 public computers; I didn't look too closely, but I'll guess that there is one for the catalog, three for the Internet.
The collection is small, but it's as much as the shelves will hold. And size of collection is not so relevant in Great River, where the whole collection floats. In a sense, each branch has a collection the size of the entire region! While I stood at the staff desk (after embarrasing myself by trying to buy a fleece blanket that, it turns out, is part of an up-coming winter reading program for adults), a man checked out a DVD and placed his "order" for two other items. I learned that the delivery truck for Great River makes the rounds five days a week, so he won't have long to wait.
Look at the great front wall; I should have asked, but I'll guess it is made of granite from one of the companies I passed on the way here.
12/19/2012, car
Speaking of friendly, what would welcome little kids better than the low table full of Duplo blocks and related toys? This table is surrounded by books, of course--bins of picture books, shelves of J's.
Media includes VHS, DVD, CD, and audiocassettes. I spotted 4 public computers; I didn't look too closely, but I'll guess that there is one for the catalog, three for the Internet.
The collection is small, but it's as much as the shelves will hold. And size of collection is not so relevant in Great River, where the whole collection floats. In a sense, each branch has a collection the size of the entire region! While I stood at the staff desk (after embarrasing myself by trying to buy a fleece blanket that, it turns out, is part of an up-coming winter reading program for adults), a man checked out a DVD and placed his "order" for two other items. I learned that the delivery truck for Great River makes the rounds five days a week, so he won't have long to wait.
Look at the great front wall; I should have asked, but I'll guess it is made of granite from one of the companies I passed on the way here.
12/19/2012, car
Saturday, December 8, 2012
41a. St. Paul Central Children's Department-Revisit
Back again, since I was downtown for the grand opening of the renovated Union Depot. And for fun, I figured out how to get from the depot to the library using skyways all the way!
Neat new idea in the children's area today: Clear plastic backpacks loaded with theme-based books! It appeared that there are six books per backpack. Very cool. Kudos to whoever thought that up.
At the far end of the space is a housekeeping setup, a "shop," and a child-sized puppet theater (in addition to the grand historic puppet theater). A very small girl, no more than three years, was trying to be a shopkeeper, calling out that "I need customers! Lots of customers!"
Hello to the staff; I always see familiar, friendly faces when I stop here.
Neat new idea in the children's area today: Clear plastic backpacks loaded with theme-based books! It appeared that there are six books per backpack. Very cool. Kudos to whoever thought that up.
At the far end of the space is a housekeeping setup, a "shop," and a child-sized puppet theater (in addition to the grand historic puppet theater). A very small girl, no more than three years, was trying to be a shopkeeper, calling out that "I need customers! Lots of customers!"
Hello to the staff; I always see familiar, friendly faces when I stop here.
Friday, December 7, 2012
International viewers?
One thing that amazes me about this simple blog is that every day there are viewers/readers around the world! Almost every day there is a "hit" from Russia, and many other countries show up in the stats from time to time. International friends, I'd love to know how you found the site and what libraries are like where you are. Please respond in a Comment!
Ellen
Ellen
Monday, November 26, 2012
On the relevance of libraries
There is an article in the New York Times today about libraries after the assault of Hurricane Sandy. I think it would violate copyright to paste the article in here, but you can look for it at http://www.nytimes.com/2012/11/26/nyregion/after-storm-destruction-rockaway-libraries-help-keep-community-afloat.html?nl=todaysheadlines&emc=edit_th_20121126. If you are a library fan (and why else would you be reading this blog?) you will be warmed by this article.
Saturday, November 24, 2012
134. MORE, Rice Lake, Wisconsin
A nice touch that caught my eye as I entered the lobby is a courtesy phone "for local calls only."
There's a browsing area by the windows, with comfortable-looking chairs and a collection of newspapers and periodicals. The adult fiction books are on the first floor. There is a history corner with a microfilm reader, a wooden card catalog file (but with larger drawers) with a newspaper index, drawers of newspapers on microfilm, and a collection of local history, some in a locked bookcase. (Key available from staff.)
On the wall on the way up the stairs is a "wreath" made partly of book pages with a sign "The gift of reading lasts forever." Two gerbils live upstairs in the children's area; I saw one of them, briefly. The teen area has two set-ups for video games; this is the only place where I've seen video games in use at a library, except for a couple of branches in Ramsey County. Young teens were using laptops; it looked as if these might belong to the library; perhaps the kids can check them out to use there?
The adult non-fiction collection is upstairs. The shelves are painted a cheerful yellow and have woodgrain ends; the result is very light and bright--I like it!
At the other end of the upper space is the children's are. A small boombox was playing children's music softly. One area had a poster on the wall that said simply "Storytime," surrounded by eleven smaller signs telling the skills that are developed by listening to stories. There are also a play house, a "workbench" with tools, toy kitchen, play store, some dress-up clothes, and manipulatives of various sorts mounted on the wall. One shelf holds parenting books, another has children's books in Spanish. (There are also some Spanish books elsewhere for adults.)
I like the sign beside the elevator that asks patrons to "Save energy, use the stairs if possible."
Back downstairs, I visited the "Back Alley Bookstore" run by the friends. It's about the size of the store at Maplewood in Ramsey County. In addition to books for sale, it offers jigsaw swaps and free magazines.
When I was on the corner waiting to cross the street back to my car, I saw a window display about plans for a new or renovated library. There was a picture showing a Carnegie library that was in use until 1978. I didn't see the building as I drove out of town; I wish I had gone back in and asked about it.
11/24/2012 car
There's a browsing area by the windows, with comfortable-looking chairs and a collection of newspapers and periodicals. The adult fiction books are on the first floor. There is a history corner with a microfilm reader, a wooden card catalog file (but with larger drawers) with a newspaper index, drawers of newspapers on microfilm, and a collection of local history, some in a locked bookcase. (Key available from staff.)
On the wall on the way up the stairs is a "wreath" made partly of book pages with a sign "The gift of reading lasts forever." Two gerbils live upstairs in the children's area; I saw one of them, briefly. The teen area has two set-ups for video games; this is the only place where I've seen video games in use at a library, except for a couple of branches in Ramsey County. Young teens were using laptops; it looked as if these might belong to the library; perhaps the kids can check them out to use there?
The adult non-fiction collection is upstairs. The shelves are painted a cheerful yellow and have woodgrain ends; the result is very light and bright--I like it!
At the other end of the upper space is the children's are. A small boombox was playing children's music softly. One area had a poster on the wall that said simply "Storytime," surrounded by eleven smaller signs telling the skills that are developed by listening to stories. There are also a play house, a "workbench" with tools, toy kitchen, play store, some dress-up clothes, and manipulatives of various sorts mounted on the wall. One shelf holds parenting books, another has children's books in Spanish. (There are also some Spanish books elsewhere for adults.)
I like the sign beside the elevator that asks patrons to "Save energy, use the stairs if possible."
Back downstairs, I visited the "Back Alley Bookstore" run by the friends. It's about the size of the store at Maplewood in Ramsey County. In addition to books for sale, it offers jigsaw swaps and free magazines.
When I was on the corner waiting to cross the street back to my car, I saw a window display about plans for a new or renovated library. There was a picture showing a Carnegie library that was in use until 1978. I didn't see the building as I drove out of town; I wish I had gone back in and asked about it.
11/24/2012 car
133. MORE, Ladysmith, Wisconsin
The Ladysmith library overlooks a lake (pond?) and a park, which gave me a chance to stretch my legs--briefly. It was cold today! One of the pictures below looks back at the library from the park.
There is a fountain in the lobby; I think it was called Dripping Leaves. (Sorry, the name didn't get into my notes.) There was also a woman weaving on a tabletop loom, which was fascinating to me and to a boy about 10 years old.
There is a cozy teen area with two couches, a TV, and a sign gently asking that "If you move the furniture, please put it back." Near this area I was able to look into what I think is the librarian's office. A picture of a cute pirate cat was on the computer screen.
An adult browsing area looks out over the park. Large and medium tables along the window wall provide space for study and jigsaw puzzles. On top of one shelf I spotted a stuffed bobcat; I'm not an expert, but it looked like a good job. There is a stuffed owl, also good.
Moving toward the kids' area I saw original art on the walls, a coupon swap, a mineral display, and a nicely decorated Christmas tree. I've learned that outdated coupons are collected for military families, who can use them for a certain time beyond their expiration date.
The kids' area has windows on two sides. It features a tepee, probably 6 feet tall or more, with cushions inside. And to me, the piece de resistance, a wooden horse with a real saddle! I asked permission and took a picture; see below. I learned that the recently retired children's librarian provided (built?) the horse and gave the saddle. When I was a kid, I'd have been in that saddle every chance I had! A corner for the littlest kids had a set of three quarter-circle carpeted steps in one corner.
The juvenile collection seemed to be very large and included book-and-media sets and many, many VHS tapes.
That horse distracted me from the adult collection; fear not, there is one!
11/24/2012 car
There is a fountain in the lobby; I think it was called Dripping Leaves. (Sorry, the name didn't get into my notes.) There was also a woman weaving on a tabletop loom, which was fascinating to me and to a boy about 10 years old.
There is a cozy teen area with two couches, a TV, and a sign gently asking that "If you move the furniture, please put it back." Near this area I was able to look into what I think is the librarian's office. A picture of a cute pirate cat was on the computer screen.
An adult browsing area looks out over the park. Large and medium tables along the window wall provide space for study and jigsaw puzzles. On top of one shelf I spotted a stuffed bobcat; I'm not an expert, but it looked like a good job. There is a stuffed owl, also good.
Moving toward the kids' area I saw original art on the walls, a coupon swap, a mineral display, and a nicely decorated Christmas tree. I've learned that outdated coupons are collected for military families, who can use them for a certain time beyond their expiration date.
The kids' area has windows on two sides. It features a tepee, probably 6 feet tall or more, with cushions inside. And to me, the piece de resistance, a wooden horse with a real saddle! I asked permission and took a picture; see below. I learned that the recently retired children's librarian provided (built?) the horse and gave the saddle. When I was a kid, I'd have been in that saddle every chance I had! A corner for the littlest kids had a set of three quarter-circle carpeted steps in one corner.
The juvenile collection seemed to be very large and included book-and-media sets and many, many VHS tapes.
That horse distracted me from the adult collection; fear not, there is one!
11/24/2012 car
132. MORE, Chetek, Wisconsin
This small library has a delightful children's area, with a dragon mural, a bright rug with the sun, numbers, and letters, a puppet theatre and basket of puppets, and a good collection of books--including a large group of Little Golden Books. A toy corner was keeping a number of small children engaged while I was there.
A browsing area was made homey with a number of glider-type easy chairs and a couple of rustic lamps, along with periodicals and newspapers.
The back wall featured articles and pictures of Hazel Calhoun, Superintendent of Schools in Barron County from 1952 to 1963. Even a cursory reading made it clear that she was a wonderful philanthropist in this community. Look at the picture below and you will see that the library was named for her.
The library provides fax service at $2.00 for six pages. Ive rarely seen this service in libraries, except in St. Paul.
As I was leaving, I spotted a poster about Operation Military Kids, a collection of 20 books provided by the state. There were suggestions about reading one or more of these books and discussing them. For more information, check out www.uwex.edu/ces/4h/omk.
Today was the last day of a Friends booksale in Chetek, and I scored three children's books and a recorded book by Crichton--all for a buck! Thanks, Friends!
11/24/2012 car
A browsing area was made homey with a number of glider-type easy chairs and a couple of rustic lamps, along with periodicals and newspapers.
The back wall featured articles and pictures of Hazel Calhoun, Superintendent of Schools in Barron County from 1952 to 1963. Even a cursory reading made it clear that she was a wonderful philanthropist in this community. Look at the picture below and you will see that the library was named for her.
The library provides fax service at $2.00 for six pages. Ive rarely seen this service in libraries, except in St. Paul.
As I was leaving, I spotted a poster about Operation Military Kids, a collection of 20 books provided by the state. There were suggestions about reading one or more of these books and discussing them. For more information, check out www.uwex.edu/ces/4h/omk.
Today was the last day of a Friends booksale in Chetek, and I scored three children's books and a recorded book by Crichton--all for a buck! Thanks, Friends!
11/24/2012 car
131. MORE, Amery, Wisconsin
The "we care about people" vibe starts as soon as you walk in the door, where a sign lets you know that a wheelchair and walker are available. Containers are provided for collecting box tops, bottle caps, and Campbell's labels, as well as food for a food shelf. The lobby is dominated by the Harvey and Marilyn Stower Coffee Corner--a comfortable living room with newspapers, periodicals, and vending machines close by. The Friends of the Library have a bulletin board that includes posted reports, and a shelf of books for sale. There's also a rack of greeting cards provided by a women's club, for sale to support the library.
Inside, painted silhouettes of children lead the way along the wall to the children'a area, which features (along with plenty of books of all types) a playhouse corner and a wooden train on a low table. There are several large areas for kids of different ages. A "bookworm" table made of five overlapping circles reminded me of the Very Hungry Caterpillar table in Elk River, MN.
There is a large meeting room off the lobby, and I saw at least two smaller meeting/study rooms inside. The adult area has three "living room" type areas, in addition to the space in the lobby. Two of them flank a two-sided fireplace.
Several chess boards were set up, ready for games. The Westerns section has a large number of old Zane Grey books, marked as gifts on the back of the title pages. That's something I don't see every day!
The library is attached to a large assisted living facility by a passageway; I was there early, right after opening, and did not see seniors around, but the whole space would welcome them. At the same time, I can't think that it would in any way put off younger adults or kids.
I spotted few public computers relative to other libraries I've visited. Perhaps I missed them?
The entire space feels very spacious and bright. I think this may be in part because the walls are decorated, not with framed objects, but with painted quotations, like, "No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted. Aesop." These are on the walls in the adult area, also. This large small-town library seems ready to meet the needs of the community.
11/24/2012 car
Inside, painted silhouettes of children lead the way along the wall to the children'a area, which features (along with plenty of books of all types) a playhouse corner and a wooden train on a low table. There are several large areas for kids of different ages. A "bookworm" table made of five overlapping circles reminded me of the Very Hungry Caterpillar table in Elk River, MN.
There is a large meeting room off the lobby, and I saw at least two smaller meeting/study rooms inside. The adult area has three "living room" type areas, in addition to the space in the lobby. Two of them flank a two-sided fireplace.
Several chess boards were set up, ready for games. The Westerns section has a large number of old Zane Grey books, marked as gifts on the back of the title pages. That's something I don't see every day!
The library is attached to a large assisted living facility by a passageway; I was there early, right after opening, and did not see seniors around, but the whole space would welcome them. At the same time, I can't think that it would in any way put off younger adults or kids.
I spotted few public computers relative to other libraries I've visited. Perhaps I missed them?
The entire space feels very spacious and bright. I think this may be in part because the walls are decorated, not with framed objects, but with painted quotations, like, "No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted. Aesop." These are on the walls in the adult area, also. This large small-town library seems ready to meet the needs of the community.
11/24/2012 car
Tuesday, November 20, 2012
78a. Hennepin County, Penn Lake, Bloomington, Re-visit
This branch closed for renovations shortly after my visit last summer. To a couple of friends who think my visit may have been a cause of the remodeling, ha ha no, it was part of a long-range plan. Today was a good day to get back and see what has changed.
When I visited last, many picture books were packed, some shelves were empty, there was a definite closing-soon vibe. Today was very different in some ways that I noticed quickly, and in one way that I would have missed if I had not had a conversation with staff.
First, the obvious: the place is totally "put together" now. Picture books (and other books) abound, though the children's "new books" shelf was oddly empty. I like the practice of putting series books, like Hank the Cow Dog, in plastic boxes which are then shelved alphabetically by author. Does this perhaps get children "into" the non-series books, where they might spot something interesting? I like the bright plastic laundry baskets for board books. The child-sized couch and upholstered chairs look inviting. The children's area has eight computers with Little Links reserved for kids 12 and under.
In the adult area I noticed comfortable seating by the windows that look out on Penn Ave. There is some interesting art on the walls, world language books in Russian, Spanish, and Vietnamese, and a basket of books for "Adult New Readers" on the shelf in the 400 section of the non-fiction shelves, something I haven't seen before. There were about 16 computers for adult use.
A teen area has comfortable seating, three computers, and a counter with stools and outlets for laptops.
A certain Safety Committee (not in Hennepin County) recently suggested putting bright tape on black kick-stools to make them more visible. Here, I spotted a kick-stool completely painted bright yellow. Way to go, Penn Lake!
Before leaving, I talked to a staff person about the changes, mentioning that the space feels larger although it's clear the footprint has not changed. She reminded me that before the rennovation, the reference desk had been in the center of the building, separate from the circulation services desk. Now, both have been combined into one service desk on the left as you enter. It certainly makes the library feel more spacious. One unintended consequence, however, is that when the librarian was in the center overseeing the entire space, circulation staff could be in the workroom behind the desk. Now, it's sometimes necessary for circ staff to stay at the desk and help with oversight. But my impression was that the changes are considered a net plus.
11/20/12, bus and walking
When I visited last, many picture books were packed, some shelves were empty, there was a definite closing-soon vibe. Today was very different in some ways that I noticed quickly, and in one way that I would have missed if I had not had a conversation with staff.
First, the obvious: the place is totally "put together" now. Picture books (and other books) abound, though the children's "new books" shelf was oddly empty. I like the practice of putting series books, like Hank the Cow Dog, in plastic boxes which are then shelved alphabetically by author. Does this perhaps get children "into" the non-series books, where they might spot something interesting? I like the bright plastic laundry baskets for board books. The child-sized couch and upholstered chairs look inviting. The children's area has eight computers with Little Links reserved for kids 12 and under.
In the adult area I noticed comfortable seating by the windows that look out on Penn Ave. There is some interesting art on the walls, world language books in Russian, Spanish, and Vietnamese, and a basket of books for "Adult New Readers" on the shelf in the 400 section of the non-fiction shelves, something I haven't seen before. There were about 16 computers for adult use.
A teen area has comfortable seating, three computers, and a counter with stools and outlets for laptops.
A certain Safety Committee (not in Hennepin County) recently suggested putting bright tape on black kick-stools to make them more visible. Here, I spotted a kick-stool completely painted bright yellow. Way to go, Penn Lake!
Before leaving, I talked to a staff person about the changes, mentioning that the space feels larger although it's clear the footprint has not changed. She reminded me that before the rennovation, the reference desk had been in the center of the building, separate from the circulation services desk. Now, both have been combined into one service desk on the left as you enter. It certainly makes the library feel more spacious. One unintended consequence, however, is that when the librarian was in the center overseeing the entire space, circulation staff could be in the workroom behind the desk. Now, it's sometimes necessary for circ staff to stay at the desk and help with oversight. But my impression was that the changes are considered a net plus.
11/20/12, bus and walking
Sunday, November 11, 2012
Comments
Hello, readers. The site is seeing quite a bit of action, which is great fun. But there are very few comments. My guess is that blogspot deters comments by requiring that you log on in some particular way. Here's an alternative: I you email your comments to me at library.logger@gmail.com, I'll put your email in as a comment. I won't include your email address, but please give your name or an alias. And be sure to identify which post your comment is related to.
Does that help?
Ellen (library.logger)
Does that help?
Ellen (library.logger)
Saturday, November 10, 2012
130. SELCO, Faribault, MN
This library is part of a row of linked buildings that house, from left to right, the City Hall, library, parks and recreation center, and a senior center.
I arrived about 20 minutes before closing, and the lights were mostly off already in the children's area. I did see a fine dramatic play area, with kitchen, store, dollhouse, and (a first for me) a child-sized "living room" with easy chairs, a "coffee table," and so forth. Round pizza pans are attached to the ends of some shelves, and each has a collection of pictures with magnets.
There are two attractive fireplaces and other features that hint "Carnegie," but this building is not of that heritage.
There is a sizeable collection of foreign and silent films on DVDs. Reference materials are "on shelves behind the reference desk."
A wall rack holds resource guides for courses that might be college or high school.
An old, large, glass-fronted bookcase with a collection of books is "...from the home of Judge Thomas Scott Buckham, 1835-1928."
Large plastic baskets are at the ends of rows for books to be reshelved. I saw a dozen or so public computers.
With 15 minutes to go, staff announced that "The library will close in 15 minutes. We are not able to issue library cards 15 minutes before closing. Lights and computers will turn off 10 minutes before closing." Staff at this library must have a good track record for clearing the building on time!
11/10/12, car
I arrived about 20 minutes before closing, and the lights were mostly off already in the children's area. I did see a fine dramatic play area, with kitchen, store, dollhouse, and (a first for me) a child-sized "living room" with easy chairs, a "coffee table," and so forth. Round pizza pans are attached to the ends of some shelves, and each has a collection of pictures with magnets.
There are two attractive fireplaces and other features that hint "Carnegie," but this building is not of that heritage.
There is a sizeable collection of foreign and silent films on DVDs. Reference materials are "on shelves behind the reference desk."
A wall rack holds resource guides for courses that might be college or high school.
An old, large, glass-fronted bookcase with a collection of books is "...from the home of Judge Thomas Scott Buckham, 1835-1928."
Large plastic baskets are at the ends of rows for books to be reshelved. I saw a dozen or so public computers.
With 15 minutes to go, staff announced that "The library will close in 15 minutes. We are not able to issue library cards 15 minutes before closing. Lights and computers will turn off 10 minutes before closing." Staff at this library must have a good track record for clearing the building on time!
11/10/12, car
129. Osage, Iowa
Today's trip was inspired by this library, which is written up in Main Street Public Libraries from the University of Iowa Press. The original building, a Carnegie now serving as the City Hall, is a few blocks down the street from current library.
[A maple theme pervades the town]
I have a variety of impressions of this library, all good but rather scattered. I like the display cases, which today house very well-crafted handmade vehicles like ox carts and covered wagons, complete with animals. An alcove that appeared at first to house reference materials also had a display of materials relevant to caregivers and a collection of medical and nutritional books; a nearby computer is "reserved for medical research," and apparently has access to special databases.
There are photographs of librarians from early days to more recent, and also a display of photos and brief biographies of local notables from the early 20th century to near the present.
A fireplace provides the focal point for a very nice "living room" area, with upholstered chairs, stone-topped tables, and homey touches. Art on the walls is available to borrow. Other things available to borrow--I saw these on the library website and now I've confirmed it with my own eyes--include folding tables, coffee urns, electric roasters similar to the one my mother used to have, and just about every size and shape of cake pan you could imagine, each in a hanging plastic bag!
A Youth Activity Room holds 4 round tables, 16 chairs, a couple of adult chairs, and a lot of easy readers and early chapter books. The sign made me think "teen," but the furnishings make it clear this is "early elementary." There is a clever bulletin board display with a paper tree and rake and small reproductions of children's book covers on paper leaves. The title is, of course, "Rake up a Good Book."
Story packs are in large zipper notebook binders. Some are labeled Chickasaw County Extension: Exploring Avenues for Getting Literate Early." It's nice to see the library and extension service collaborating.
A sign by the DVDs says that "Age 17 and up may check out R-rated movies. Younger borrowers must have a signed parent consent form."
A table in the entrance is used for patrons to drop off items to swap or give away: magazines, stationary, paperback books, and more.
Last but not at all least, this small town library has a children's program that has grown to 90 kids, from pre-K to grade 5, and their activities have had to move from the library, across the parking lot to the large meeting room at the police department! Clearly, this library is connecting with the new generation!
11/10/12, car
[A maple theme pervades the town]
I have a variety of impressions of this library, all good but rather scattered. I like the display cases, which today house very well-crafted handmade vehicles like ox carts and covered wagons, complete with animals. An alcove that appeared at first to house reference materials also had a display of materials relevant to caregivers and a collection of medical and nutritional books; a nearby computer is "reserved for medical research," and apparently has access to special databases.
There are photographs of librarians from early days to more recent, and also a display of photos and brief biographies of local notables from the early 20th century to near the present.
A fireplace provides the focal point for a very nice "living room" area, with upholstered chairs, stone-topped tables, and homey touches. Art on the walls is available to borrow. Other things available to borrow--I saw these on the library website and now I've confirmed it with my own eyes--include folding tables, coffee urns, electric roasters similar to the one my mother used to have, and just about every size and shape of cake pan you could imagine, each in a hanging plastic bag!
A Youth Activity Room holds 4 round tables, 16 chairs, a couple of adult chairs, and a lot of easy readers and early chapter books. The sign made me think "teen," but the furnishings make it clear this is "early elementary." There is a clever bulletin board display with a paper tree and rake and small reproductions of children's book covers on paper leaves. The title is, of course, "Rake up a Good Book."
Story packs are in large zipper notebook binders. Some are labeled Chickasaw County Extension: Exploring Avenues for Getting Literate Early." It's nice to see the library and extension service collaborating.
A sign by the DVDs says that "Age 17 and up may check out R-rated movies. Younger borrowers must have a signed parent consent form."
A table in the entrance is used for patrons to drop off items to swap or give away: magazines, stationary, paperback books, and more.
Last but not at all least, this small town library has a children's program that has grown to 90 kids, from pre-K to grade 5, and their activities have had to move from the library, across the parking lot to the large meeting room at the police department! Clearly, this library is connecting with the new generation!
11/10/12, car
128. SELCO, Austin, MN
Another library where kids are supreme, which I totally support. Here, I was greeted with a glass case full of creative LEGO models made by boys and girls. Just beyond was a room labeled Early Literacy Room; it has two glass walls, toys, seating, a nursery rhyme rug. A sign that you see when leaving this space says, "All picked up? Great. Thank you!"
Familiar items in the children's area include computers (I counted about 16), chairs with animal motifs, a fire engine reading space similar to the one in Moundsview (Ramsey County), a puppet theater, and a large collection of all kinds of books, including Garfield comics, graphic novels, and many holiday books. But wherever I go, there is something I haven't seen before. In this case, it was strollers with bookbags attached, allowing a parent to cope with a small child and a large bunch of books while browsing. I know I'll think of these when I see certain parents at the library where I work!
I was literally stopped in my tracks when I left the children's area and headed to the adult area. There are two window walls that give a stunning view of the Red Cedar River. I hadn't even known there was a river out there! One wall is lined with 4-person tables for study or browsing, some with reading lamps. The other has tables with power strips for laptop use.
If you read many of these entries, you know that I'm always on the lookout for interesting signage. Here I found a sign that reminded me of one in Northeast Branch, Hennepin County: "Cutting articles and pictures out of our newspapers and magazines is theft and vandalism." OK, that's straighforward. But the next part of the sign says, "If you need a xerox (sic) copy and cannot pay for it, we will make one free of charge." That's very humane; I like it. The third part of the sign I understand but it makes me squirm a bit: "If you see someone destroying library property, please tell a staff member immediately."
A sign advertises Zineo, "the world's largest newsstand now available it your library." Along with what looked to me like a very large variety of periodicals, this really opens the world to patrons.
There are a lot of "Playaway" systems for adults, teens, and kids; for children, there are even "Playaway View" systems, which I'd never seen before. Maplewood in Ramsey County still has a few Playaways for adults, I think, but I haven't seen one or heard them mentioned in a long time.
Music CDs are shelved in a way that is new to me. Each has a flat plastic sleeve with space on one side for a CD and on the other side the descriptive insert. This allows a lot of CDs to be stored in a relatively small space, and you can see both sides of the CD and the insert without opening or removing anything. It would be immediately apparent to the patron if he/she was about to return an empty case!
I almost missed a large (about 11' diameter) polished stone inlay with the words "Austin Public Library" and "Supported by the Ladies Floral Club since 1869." That must make it one of the earliest libraries in MN. The present facility was built in 1996.
After leaving the library, I took a walk along the river. I've been going on and on here, but here's one more thing: There are signs in Spanish and English by the playground and along the river path based on materials from www.bornlearning.org. I hoped that I could just refer you to the signs at that site, but it's not that easy. I'll just cite one: "Watch. Learn. Stop. Play. Let your child lead the way." Then it gives ideas for playing with your child, starting with "Watch what your child likes to do..." Very, very nice idea, with signs thanks to the Hormel Foundation.
11/10/12, car
Familiar items in the children's area include computers (I counted about 16), chairs with animal motifs, a fire engine reading space similar to the one in Moundsview (Ramsey County), a puppet theater, and a large collection of all kinds of books, including Garfield comics, graphic novels, and many holiday books. But wherever I go, there is something I haven't seen before. In this case, it was strollers with bookbags attached, allowing a parent to cope with a small child and a large bunch of books while browsing. I know I'll think of these when I see certain parents at the library where I work!
I was literally stopped in my tracks when I left the children's area and headed to the adult area. There are two window walls that give a stunning view of the Red Cedar River. I hadn't even known there was a river out there! One wall is lined with 4-person tables for study or browsing, some with reading lamps. The other has tables with power strips for laptop use.
If you read many of these entries, you know that I'm always on the lookout for interesting signage. Here I found a sign that reminded me of one in Northeast Branch, Hennepin County: "Cutting articles and pictures out of our newspapers and magazines is theft and vandalism." OK, that's straighforward. But the next part of the sign says, "If you need a xerox (sic) copy and cannot pay for it, we will make one free of charge." That's very humane; I like it. The third part of the sign I understand but it makes me squirm a bit: "If you see someone destroying library property, please tell a staff member immediately."
A sign advertises Zineo, "the world's largest newsstand now available it your library." Along with what looked to me like a very large variety of periodicals, this really opens the world to patrons.
There are a lot of "Playaway" systems for adults, teens, and kids; for children, there are even "Playaway View" systems, which I'd never seen before. Maplewood in Ramsey County still has a few Playaways for adults, I think, but I haven't seen one or heard them mentioned in a long time.
Music CDs are shelved in a way that is new to me. Each has a flat plastic sleeve with space on one side for a CD and on the other side the descriptive insert. This allows a lot of CDs to be stored in a relatively small space, and you can see both sides of the CD and the insert without opening or removing anything. It would be immediately apparent to the patron if he/she was about to return an empty case!
I almost missed a large (about 11' diameter) polished stone inlay with the words "Austin Public Library" and "Supported by the Ladies Floral Club since 1869." That must make it one of the earliest libraries in MN. The present facility was built in 1996.
After leaving the library, I took a walk along the river. I've been going on and on here, but here's one more thing: There are signs in Spanish and English by the playground and along the river path based on materials from www.bornlearning.org. I hoped that I could just refer you to the signs at that site, but it's not that easy. I'll just cite one: "Watch. Learn. Stop. Play. Let your child lead the way." Then it gives ideas for playing with your child, starting with "Watch what your child likes to do..." Very, very nice idea, with signs thanks to the Hormel Foundation.
11/10/12, car
127. Southeast Libraries Cooperating (SELCO) Owatonna, MN
It took me a while to grasp that the whole first floor of this library is the kids' area! There are many windows, a dollhouse, puzzles, lots and lots of books, a large parenting collection, and at least 10 computers for kids. About half of the space can be closed with folding doors to create a large program space. How large? Well, there is ample room for eight tables, each with four chairs--room enough for an entire class from the nearby elementary school. In addition to children's programs, this space is used for movies; coming up soon: Auntie Mame. [I think that came out when I was in college!]
There are story bags with books and audio and lots of recorded books. Near the entrance is a glass case that today had a nifty display of animal books and many small animal figures, grouped near each book.
I thought this was a Carnegie library, because of the beautiful fireplaces, classic oak tables and chairs, and large windows. However, a plaque in the entranceway says "In memory of Elisha Y and Elizabeth C Hunewill whose generosity made possible the founding of this free public library." [And I just discovered that it is not listed in Carnegie Libraries of Minnesota.]A nearby plaque states that modernization in 1954 was made possible by the Gainey Foundation. It clearly has been modernized again since then, with the addition of the new part. There are many old photographs indicating pride and interest in the history of the building and the area.
The newer part upstairs, above the children's area, has windows on three sides, some oak carrels, a good-sized collection of fiction and non-fiction (in addition to mysteries and "Christian fiction" in the older area), about a dozen public computers, a reference collection, many large-print books, audio books, and DVDs, including Blue Ray DVDs, which I have not noticed at any other library I've visited.
I registered my St. Paul library card in the SELCO system, but did not take out a book as I don't know when I'll get back down this way.
11/10/12, car
There are story bags with books and audio and lots of recorded books. Near the entrance is a glass case that today had a nifty display of animal books and many small animal figures, grouped near each book.
I thought this was a Carnegie library, because of the beautiful fireplaces, classic oak tables and chairs, and large windows. However, a plaque in the entranceway says "In memory of Elisha Y and Elizabeth C Hunewill whose generosity made possible the founding of this free public library." [And I just discovered that it is not listed in Carnegie Libraries of Minnesota.]A nearby plaque states that modernization in 1954 was made possible by the Gainey Foundation. It clearly has been modernized again since then, with the addition of the new part. There are many old photographs indicating pride and interest in the history of the building and the area.
The newer part upstairs, above the children's area, has windows on three sides, some oak carrels, a good-sized collection of fiction and non-fiction (in addition to mysteries and "Christian fiction" in the older area), about a dozen public computers, a reference collection, many large-print books, audio books, and DVDs, including Blue Ray DVDs, which I have not noticed at any other library I've visited.
I registered my St. Paul library card in the SELCO system, but did not take out a book as I don't know when I'll get back down this way.
11/10/12, car
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