Santa Bear Winner

Olivia Webb won the Santa Bear! Olivia was called on Dec. 28th. Please take Olivia's picture when she picks up her prize.

Christmas Tree Winner

Julie Perrette won the Christmas Tree Candy jar! Julie was called on Dec. 28th. Please take Julie's picture when she picks up her prize.

RAFFLE

There is a (glass) tree-shaped jar filled with a few snowman knick-knacks and some chocolate candy on the corner of the circulation desk. Patrons can enter a guess with their name & phone#. Winner will be announced the week of December 28th.

STAFF CHRISTMAS LUNCH

There is a sign up sheet in the kitchen for our staff Christmas luncheon. If you plan on attending, please sign up to help at Circ and/or for set-up/clean-up. Also sign up what you will bring. The library will provide chicken.
There is also a donation envelope circulating. We will be doing a SOS Village donation in lieu of the Secret Santa. If you have any question, see Patti.

AFGHAN QUILT

Larry Paraday is the winner of the white and purple afghan quilt. CONGRATS to Larry!
I left him a message on Nov. 17th. The quilt is on the back of my chair. Thanks.

Customer Service - Please respond via email that you have read this

I expect everyone to provide the best in customer service. Whether you are dealing with children, seniors, teens, a difficult situation or issue, a customer with a concern, etc. you need to bring your best to your job. Professional and courteous service is the expected standard here.

Respect the fact that you work in a customer service setting and must provide courteous and welcoming service. Or this atmosphere may not be the place for you to work. I expect all staff to be responsive and helpful to all of our customers in a positive manner, no exceptions. I also expect you to provide fellow staff with the same courtesy, respect, and support. Again, no exceptions.

Please come and see me if you have any issue that we need to discuss.

Twilight Poster Raffle

We are having a raffle for three Twilight posters (one poster per winner). Patrons can get a ticket from the reference desk (tickets are next to Heather's keyboard) and the can is located at the ref desk between Heather & Bonnie's computers. The raffle is open to all patrons, and they can fill out one raffle ticket per day. The winners will be pulled on Friday, November 20th to coincide with the release of New Moon in theaters. Thanks!

Carsons Books

Don't forget we're selling carsons books! We only have a few more days left. Thanks to all that helped sell!

Winners: 2009 Bookmobile Costume Contest

Winners of the costume contest have been called. Prizes are on JodyO's desk. Each prize has the winner's name on it.

Thank you!

Intro to Word class

If anyone should call about a message about the Intro to Word class, I am rescheduling for Tuesday, November 10th @ 7pm. Please note on the sign-up sheet if they can or can not make the class. I will attempt to schedule another date in the begining of Dec. for those that can not make that next date.

Please let the patrons know as well that the library now offers free online self-paced Office (computer) classes through our Learning Express database.

Thanks.

VHS TAPES

Since we will not be replacing Lost or Damaged VHS tapes, charge only the minimum fine of $5.00 per item under these circumstances. If the patron finds a Lost one, it is theirs to keep.

AND when VHS tapes are returned, give them to Carol W.

CHANGES...

If any more of the "E CB" kits come in give them to Carol W. This collection is being deleted.

Computer Classes

Computer class full? Let patrons know that they can take self-paced online Microsoft Office 2003 and 2007 classes online through our LearningExpress database at http://homerlibrary.org/findit.asp.

Fun Friday / Scrumptious Saturday

For those of you working this Friday, it will be Fun Friday. If you’d like to join in the festivities bring munchies to share throughout the day. It can be dessert, appetizer, candy, whatever! Also, jeans are allowed that day!

For those of you working on Saturday, it will be Scrumptious Saturday! If you’d like to join in the festivities bring munchies to share throughout the day. It can be dessert, appetizer, candy, whatever! Also, jeans are allowed that day!


Any questions, please ask me.

Fall Coloring Contest Winners

Bookmobile Fall Coloring Contest winners have been chosen.

The winners have been called. Prizes are on JodyO's desk and each of the three prizes in small polka dot celophane gift bags have the winner's name on them.

Please take a photo of the winners.

Thank you.

Cash Register

Would everyone please take your time when putting money in the register and taking it out. The register was off Sat. & Sun by $5 and Monday by $5. I know it doesn't seem like alot but if it happens everyday it adds up.

NEW DVD CATEGORY

There will be DVD's labeled HOLIDAY.
If any holiday DVD's are checked in give them to Carol W.
Thanks

Teen Read Week

October 18th - 24 is Teen Read Week (Read Beyond Reality)

Teens that check out a YA book can stop by the Reference Desk to pick up a treat bag.
This is for teens 6th-12th grade and the teen does need to be here to pick up the treat bag.


We are offering a movie, "Coraline", which is based off a Neil Gaiman book. The movie is on October 20th @ 7pm. The Teen Techies will be watching the movie.
On Wed, October 21st,we will have a teen craft at 4:30 pm. We'll be making cell phone charms. Teens with out cell phones can make a bracelet or work on a previous craft.

Thanks!

FRIENDS RAFFLE

Janet Dejka, Sue Sebranek and Tammy Shea won the Friends Raffle. This time the prize is a library cup, Dunkin Donuts coffee and a bag of Milano cookies. They are in a brown bag with books on it at the circ counter next to the typewriter. All winners have been contacted. When they pick up the bag, please thank them for being a Friend!


Thanks,
Sara

DVD

Please DO NOT key the barcode number in for the DVD’s before you pull the DVD.

Patrons are claiming that the barcode wasn’t on the DVD (older entries) and we cannot prove otherwise because of the practice of not always scanning the DVD barcodes at checkout.

Phone Bill Clinic

A mailing/press release about a Phone Bill Clinic was sent out by the Citizen Utility Board for October 19th. Please note that there is NO Phone Bill Clinic for this night - October 19th is our Author Fair Night.

Please do note that I have talked to the Phone Bill Clinic about this and they will correct their press releases and communication.

They have a presentation scheduled for Nov. 16th - A Phone Bill/Energy Saving Clinic, that will take place @ 7 pm at our library.

Thanks.

DISPLAYS

A “Homer Township PLD Display” record has been created. (22889000119388)
Any items put into a display should be checked out to this record then when not needed on display should be checked in.
This may cause problems with holds, but by checking the record you can see what items are checked out on the display record.
Checking the “Display” record could be done every day for reminders of what is on display.

Banned Books Weeks Display

The books that are in the Banned Books Week cage (which is getting a lot of attention!) are now checked out to a card under "Homer Township PLD Display." Patrons are welcome to check these books out; simply override the Workflows message that notes that they are already checked out. Please see Jody S. with any questions. Thanks!

Teen Open House!

Hello Everyone!

As many of you already know, this Wed is our upcoming Teen Open House. We have many exciting events and hope to have quite a few teens attend this onetime event. The current listing of events is on display throughout the library and one flyer is currently hanging on the whiteboard.
1.) Patti has typed up a document that provides extensive information about the program. Patti has also made a map so that you’ll know where all the programs will be held. I encourage you to take the time to read these notes. Our circulation and reference area(S) staff are on the front lines and many of our program questions get routed to you! We don’t want to leave you without information to help answer these questions. Thank you for always taking the time to promote our programs, answer those questions, assist with program set-up/take down, and still smile at us programmers when everything is done. J We couldn’t do it without you!
2.) You may have noticed that there are signs “warning” patrons that Wed. will probably be a bit noisy. We’re hoping to fill this library with noise! We have in the past had other programs out in the library, ranging from music, presentations, storytime, etc. Unfortunately, our library meeting room sometimes is double-booked or cannot hold the anticipated number of patrons due to fire code. In this case though, please remember that the Teen Open House is a one time event – we’ll never have another opportunity to celebrate the launch of this new section. Also, please remember how much our teens do for this library and community. Not only do we have over 60+ teens help during summer reading and the used book sales, we have teens that help at various community events from EXPO to the Township Halloween Party. Kitty’s YACs have been helping in the community for years. This teen section and open house not only provides teens with their own much needed space but also celebrates and thanks them for their community involvement.
3.) Please take a few minutes to seek out Alex, Heather, Kitty, or Patti with your questions regarding this event. We’ll also make the effort to approach you so that we can make sure you’re questions are answered. We will post questions and answers to the blog.
Thanks again!

Computer Classes

There is no waiting list for computer classes. Please do not take down the name and number of patrons wanting to get into a full computer class.

Please inform patrons that the next session of classes will be available Jan-May. And sign-up will not be available until sometime in January.

Answers to common questions from these patrons -
1.) why do we publicize in the newsletter for 5 openings? The newsletter is our main source of advertisement and goes to almost all Homer Library patrons. It would not be fair to NOT let all patrons know of this program. The newsletter is available before sign-up, meaning people are aware of the beginning sign-up date and time before hand.
2.)Why do we not have a waiting list?
We've noticed that people do not call to cancel ahead of time. They just do not show. This occurred even when there was a fee. Also, people mistake the waiting list as a guarantee that they will be in the next sessions class -- this defeats the purpose of a fair sign-up and shot at classes. Plus, if we did this, our classes would be booked for years in advance.

Thanks.

EXPO Raffle Prize

The winner of the EXPO Family Entertainment Basket has been contacted. Billy's prize is on JodyO's desk and has his name on a card hanging from the white and green ribbons. Please take a photo of the winner.

Thank you.

Circ Computer Dead

One of the circ computers has a virus on it. Something was either downloaded or a page was visited that was infected and as a result the hard drive has to be replaced. We will be down one computer for a few weeks.

Please do not download anything on your computers! All computers have several security systems installed but the software can't fight everything. Any internet searches should be dealing with your work here at the library.

Wednesday's Parking

We are hosting the Lion’s Club Senior Harvest Days from 10 to 4 on Wednesday, Sept. 23. This program offers veggies and fruit to seniors of the area. The combination of this program with story hour means we are going to be extremely busy.

In order to keep as much parking for the seniors, will all staff who work during the day please park along the fence in Woodbine’s parking lot. I’ve spoken to them and they said it would be alright as long as we are out before 5 due to a funeral that is coming in at that time.

Staff who start at 4 will have to park in our lot.

Remember, the garbage truck comes Wednesday afternoon, so no one park on the east side of the building.

It will be a bit hectic but invigorating - Enjoy the hustle and bustle!!!

Note.

Please take a look at the note and business card on the whiteboard.

We're not sure when he will be in so it is important that you are aware of this special situation.

Thanks!

Twilight Books

The Twilight books are no longer on display on Diana's desk. They are now shelved in the regular YA collection (not on display). Thanks!

Database change

We've changed our article database from Gale to Ebsco. Additional databases came with our EBSCO subscription. Please take a moment to look at the databases listed on the FindIt! webpage.

AVG Message

Your computer may receive a pop-up stating that your AVG Anti-Virus license number has been changed. This is a real message, please print off the page, write which computer the message came on and give it to me.

Thanks, if you have any questions, please ask me.

Sara

Teen Open House Info

We've finalized the schedule for the Teen Open House (to be held on Wednesday, September 30th from 5-8pm). Flyers have been posted throughout the library, & I've taped one to the white board -- please take a look at it! Also as an FYI, teens participating in the food fear factor contest will need to bring a consent form signed by a parent/guardian, and it is on the reverse side of the flyer. Thanks!

Golden Opportunities

The new Golden Opportunities Coupon books are now available. Cost is again $25 and the procedures are the same as previous years. The money does not go into the register, put the money and form, which is in the box under my desk, in the envelope in the box under my desk.

If you have any questions, please ask me.

Thanks,
Sara

Parking Lot

This past Saturday, August 29th, the library parking spaces were filled with the vehicles of families attending the football games. We have noticed that many parents also park at the library for football practices during the week.

I have contacted the Stallions Board and Director to request that they notify parents about our parking limitations and implement "no parking" notices on wooden horses that they have supplied in the past. They have posted a notice on the Stallions website regarding this issue - http://www.homerstallions.com/

The Library will install recommended signage noting "Patron Parking Use Only: Violators Towed at Owner’s Expense."

We pride ourselves on being a good neighbor and will continue to work together with our sports community to resolve parking issues. With proper signage and proactive parent notification we can defuse any future parking problems and eliminate the safety issues we saw this past weekend. I have contacted all patrons who had left a message regarding the parking issue on Saturday. Thank you for forwarding their comments and contact information to me.

If you have any questions or comments, please come in and visit with me. I would appreciate hearing any of your thoughts. Thanks!

LIBRARY BUCKS & CASH REGISTER

Do NOT put the Library Bucks in the Cash Register. They are not actual money.
Thanks

New Patron Fax Machine

I replaced the old machine because papers were getting stuck too much. the new machine as a great feature so you can create a DUPLICATE TRANSMISSION VERIFICATION REPORT -- For last document sent.

The directions are in the paper cabinet under the machine.

FYI
1. Press Green “Copy/Reports” button.

2. On Navigation Keys:
Press the down arrow to “1. TRANSMISSION” then press the “Menu/Set” button.

3. After printing report press the Red “Stop/Exit” button.

AFGHAN RAFFLE - FINAL CORRECTION (hopefully)

RULES
Raffle tickets are in the form of a "Friends Application". There are revised tickets which include a line for the date. Please fill in the date.

If someone does NOT want to become a member but wants a raffle ticket just mark RAFFLE only and complete their name and ph# only.

EXISTING Friend members MAY purchase a raffle ticket for $5 and will get a NEW YELLOW FRIEND STICKER extending their membership through 2010. (They will NOT receive the library bucks or free copies. FYI: Friends memberships are ANNUAL.

NEW Friend members will get a YELLOW FRIEND STICKER for 2010. They will NOT receive the library bucks or free copies. Their promo is a raffle ticket.

If a NEW or EXISTING Friend wants a FAMILY membership, they must pay the additional $2. Make sure you note that on the raffle ticket.

Place money in the Raffle envelope located underneath the change holder in the register drawer. If you are unsure of the envelope location, please ask someone to point out the envelope location now, instead of while waiting on a raffle customer. Thanks!

Beginning November 16th (after the afghan raffle) Friend membership stickers will have the year but also a space to note the month in order to track their membership expiration.

Teen Open House

Many of you may have heard about the upcoming Teen Open House. The Teen Open House is Sept. 30th from 5-8 pm. Of course, due to set up and clean up, we may need assistance from scheduled staff earlier in the day and after 8 pm. If you are working on this day (Wed.), we’d love for you to get involved and help with this very special event!

Community booklets

There are 10 community booklets in a white envelope located to the right of the register. Please mark off how many you sell on the envelope.

There is a button on the register for community day booklets.

Thanks for your help!

AFGHAN RAFFLE: Corrected

RULES
Raffle tickets are in the form of a "Friends Application".

If someone does NOT want to become a member but wants a raffle ticket just have mark RAFFLE only and complete their name and ph# only.

Existing FRIEND members need to purchase a raffle ticket for $5 but will get a NEW YELLOW FRIEND STICKER extending their membership through 2010. (They will NOT receive the library bucks or free copies. FYI: Friends memberships are ANNUAL.

New FRIEND members will get a YELLOW FRIEND STICKER for 2010. They will NOT receive the library bucks or free copies. Their promo is a raffle ticket.

If a new or existing FRIEND wants a FAMILY membership, they must pay the additional $2. Make sure you note that on the raffle ticket.

Place money in the Raffle envelope located underneath the change holder in the register drawer. If you are unsure of the envelope location, please ask someone to point out the envelope location now, instead of while waiting on a raffle customer. Thanks!

AFGHAN RAFFLE - FINAL CORRECTION (hopefully)

RULES
Raffle tickets are in the form of a "Friends Application". There are revised tickets which include a line for the date. Please fill in the date.

If someone does NOT want to become a member but wants a raffle ticket just mark RAFFLE only and complete their name and ph# only.

EXISTING Friend members MAY purchase a raffle ticket for $5 and will get a NEW YELLOW FRIEND STICKER extending their membership through 2010. (They will NOT receive the library bucks or free copies. FYI: Friends memberships are ANNUAL.

NEW Friend members will get a YELLOW FRIEND STICKER for 2010. They will NOT receive the library bucks or free copies. Their promo is a raffle ticket.

If a new or existing FRIEND wants a FAMILY membership, they must pay the additional $2. Make sure you note that on the raffle ticket.

Place money in the Raffle envelope located underneath the change holder in the register drawer. If you are unsure of the envelope location, please ask someone to point out the envelope location now, instead of while waiting on a raffle customer. Thanks!

Beginning November 16th (after the afghan raffle) Friend membership stickers will have the year but also a space to note the month in order to track their membership expiration.

New databases

Reference USA - http://homerlibrary.org/findit.asp
Public Records - http://homerlibrary.org/findit.asp
Kids Ebooks (Sylvan Dell) - http://homerlibrary.org/kidpage.asp

FALL NEWSLETTER

The Fall Newsletter is here. It is available in the slot at the circ desk, the bus has copies and a copy will go out in the Homer Horizon on Sept. 10. Please take a look at a copy... Carol M did a great job on it.

ZOO PASS INFORMATION UPDATE

The "late checkout" being after 5 p.m for the zoo pass has be discussed. The problem is mainly caused by our hours on Friday and Saturday.

The "late checkout" time has been lowered to 3 p.m. So if anyone checks a Zoo Pass out on ANY day after three then we don't count the current day.

ebooks for kids

Sylvan Dell has awarded the Homer Township Public Library District a Resource Grant for their eBooks.

Patrons can access this from the library or from home. Patrons interested in accessing the ebooks from home should take a bookmark (available in YS) with a code that will need to be entered from their home computers.

Access at http://homerlibrary.org/kidpage.asp

If patrons call asking for the code, please explain that it is for Homer Patrons only. If they are a Homer Patron, please provide them with the code (on the bookmark.)

ZOO PASS update

Patrons with fines over $5 on their library card may not take out a Zoo Pass.

If they pay their fines (or pay them down to $5.00) then they may go ahead and borrow a Zoo Pass.

It has come up where the patron had $35.00 in fines, took out a Zoo Pass, then returned it late adding more fines (to the fines that he/she may not pay).

LIBRARY FUND RAISER - CARSON’S COMMUNITY DAY

We have an excellent fundraiser opportunity! We're participating in the Carson's Community Day fundraiser event. I've include info from our newsletter.
If you have any questions or would like to look at the books, please contact Alex.

Carson’s Community Day is Saturday, November 14th. Purchase a $5 Carson coupon booklet @ Homer Library to help raise library program funds! Each booklet contains a $10 coupon good on almost any merchandise item. Shoppers spend $5 for the booklet and get $10 back on their first purchase and also receive eight Carson store coupons for up to 20% off, plus offers for two great bonus items available on Community Day only. Every booklet you purchase provides the library with $5 that has been designated to help support future programs and events. With a tax-capped budget the library continues to offer fundraisers of value - it’s a win - win for community members and for the library

COSTUME SWAP

We are holding a Halloween Costume Swap on Thursday, October 8th. We are now accepting costume and/or accessory donations. Please send patrons with donations to the Youth Services department so they can receive their SWAP ticket. We will accept donations from anyone (residents or non-residents). Costumes are a donation and will not be returned. Any phone calls or questions can be directed to Kitty or Patti. See the flier for additional details.

Abraham Lincoln Award Nominees

Books that have been voted as Abraham Lincoln Illinois High School Book Award 2010 Nominees are now located on the shelf below the new YA books (the Lincoln award is the high school equivalent to the Monarch and the Caudill). They have a sticker above the call number & are listed in the catalog as so -- for example, Chris Lynch's book looks like this: YA LYN (ABE LINCOLN). There are pamphlets listing all of the titles on this shelf, as well.

Application Forms

I will no longer be taking job application UNLESS the job is posted.
There will not be applications in the file by the cash register.
Thanks

Bookmobile: Family Fun Mini Golf winners

Two patrons have won passes for Mini-Golf. The prizes are in small star embellished gift bags on JodyO’s desk. The winners have been notified and their names are on tags on each bag.

Thank you for your assistance.

HS books

Libraries have requested we send back their copies of the HS reading list. Everything was packed up and shipped to their homes today! Patrons can place their own holds on their HS reading list items.

Thanks!

Teen Area looks great!

Wow - the new Teen Area is really looking great! There are still some trim details and additional items to add...but it is an amazing transformation of a small space. I really think the teens will use it and enjoy it, don't you?

Thank you to our wonderful staff for offering ideas, impressions and opinions; moving books & more; and assisting in many other ways to bring this vision forward! Great job, everyone!

Bookmobile Schedule for Fall 2009

The Bookmobile Schedule for Fall 2009 is available online (Bookmobile link) and inhouse. Check the usual Bookmobile Schedule spots for the new schedule.

The new schedule starts Sept. 1st. For more info, contact the Bookmobile department.

Tweets from Homer Library & Facebook, too!

Check out our tweets! Our library is now on Twitter and also has a Facebook presence. Here's the scoop.

Facebook - Facebook is a social networking site that allows users to create profiles and networks. Users can interact with each other through posts, surveys, and games. The Library has a Fan Page here. If you are a Facebook user you can become a "fan" of the Homer Library. The library's page contains info about upcoming programs, book discussion lists, and photographs.

Twitter - Twitter is a social networking tool that allows users to connect and communicate with each other through short messages known as "tweets". The Adult Services staff has begun to create a twitter presence for teens and adults. Plans for use include promoting events, new websites, and new books as they come in.

Web Site - The web site goal has been to reach our users in their territory, so to speak, so that they find the value of visiting and seeing what the library is about. We are increasing our visibility via the site. We have plans to consider a "library shop" where people can purchase t-shirts, etc., and the library receives a donation from any sales. More details to come!

These are all communication tools to help us continue a dialogue with our users and extend awareness of the library's many events and great resources in a manner that's convenient and most comfortable for them. Please let me know if you have any questions!

NEW MAGAZINES

Magazines that are the newest are in binders and do NOT have blue tape on them.
If someone brings you a magazine without blue tape and it is ours, please do NOT check it out.
Thanks, js

SUMMER READING WINNERS

Winners have been pulled for the summer reading baskets. We are in the process of calling the winners so people should start coming in to pick up their prizes. Please take their picture!
The baskets will remain in the Children's department. However, some of the prizes include certificates and only a copy of the certificate is in the basket (for security purposes). There is a Winner/Prize list at Circulation and prizes that need certificates inserted are listed in red. The certificates will be located in the Patron Appl drawer.
A complete list of winners will be posted for the public after all baskets have been picked up.

Bookmobile: Untamed Animals Bookmark Contest Winners

Prizes for the Untamed Animal Bookmark Contest are on JodyO's desk. Each Prize has the winner's name on it.

Please take a photo of the winners.

Thank you.

Twitter

Homer Library is on Twitter! There is a link to the account on the lefthand side of the homepage. There are business cards available at the circulation desk for patrons to take home.

Not sure what Twitter is? According to their website, Twitter is a service for friends, family, and co–workers to communicate and stay connected through the exchange of quick, frequent answers to one simple question: What are you doing?

You can find out more info at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Twitter.

Currently AS is "tweeting" but in the future other departments will be invited to "tweet" (post) as well. We're currently in discussion with Sheree on how to go about sharing the responsibilities (and possibilities!)

Booksale

Shifts during Monday 7/27 – Saturday 8/1
· Primarily focusing on bring donated books to the meeting room and arranging boxes neatly against walls
Shifts during Monday 8/3 – Thursday 8/6 (8:30am – 5pm)
· Focusing on collecting items, organizing items by topic/genre, supervising any volunteers
Shifts during Thursday 8/7 – Wednesday 8/12
· Focusing on selling books! Cash register duty, assisting the flow of patrons, reorganizing books during down time, supervising any volunteers!

USED BOOK SALE SCHEDULE

The staff schedule for the Used Book Sale is posted by the time clock. Please note when you are expected to work. Further details will be posted on the blog shortly.

Teen Section

The Teen Books have been moved to the Adult Reference Area. For more info, ask Heather or Alex. Thanks!

New database

We have a new database, Illinois Public Records. This database provides access to Real Estate Transactions, New Business, Foreclosures and Auctions, and Bankruptcies.
We currently only have in-house access but PALS is working on getting remote access available within the week.

FINE UPDATE ON ZOO PASSES

LATE FEES:
· THERE IS AN OVERDUE FINE OF $10.00 PER DAY CHARGED TO THE PATRON’S ACCOUNT.

· AFTER 1 WEEK, (7 DAYS) A $50.00 FINE WILL BE ADDED TO THE ACCUMULATED $10.00 A DAY OVERDUE FINE FOR A TOTAL OF $90.00. THERE WILL BE A $90.00 CAP ON THE FINE.

JACKHAMMER TICKETS

We acquired 5 more tickets for the Jackhammers so we pulled another name. CINDY won the tickets.

USED BOOK SALE

The sign up sheet for the USED BOOK SALE is posted on the kitchen white board. If you have not signed up for at least 1 day to assist, please do so by Wednesday, July 22nd. Otherwise, we will be forced to insert your name where needed.

TEXAS ROADHOUSE

Week 4 winner is Kelly Forkin. She has been called.

Renew, my account

Patrons can access My Account and the Renew pages of the catalog through the MY ACCOUNT link on the left hand side of the homepage.

60-SECOND SURVEY

Please check your email and complete the 60-second survey for the Destination Station Grant. Your input is very important to Sheree. Feel free to add thoughts and comments. Place completed surveys in the marked envelope in the staff kitchen. Thanks!

Everything changes, nothing remains without change.”

quote from Buddha

The Barcode location on the DVDs will be changing.
This will be a progressive process on the DVDs that are already barcoded, but future ones will have the barcode written on the DVD and the Barcode will be inside the case above where the DVD clips in.

Give me loose or lost barcode DVD problems only.

STAFF RAFFLE

Winners were pulled today for the staff raffle.

Staybridge Suites overnight stay
Sara

Joliet Jackhammers tickets for 6
MaryEllen
Dawn
Dianne
Bonnie
Pat
Donna

Congatulations to all the winners!

DVD -- FYI

1. Don't override if both pieces aren't there. Some of the DVDs have 2 discs.
2. Check the condition of the DVD when it is returned. Some are coming back "yucky".

Farewell to Julie Hueckstaedt

With a heavy heart we have accepted the resignation of Julie Hueckstaedt, a Youth Services staff member. Julie has accepted another position and will be bringing her many talents to one of our local school districts.

We wish Julie the very best in her future endeavors. Her positive energy, wonderful work ethic and courtesy will be greatly missed by staff, children and our many customers. As a valued staff member, Julie brought dedication and professionalism to all the she did here. We hope she continues to visit us often and keep us updated on what she is doing.

Julie's last date for work at the library will be Wednesday, July 15, 2009.

We extend our best wishes to Julie - and thank her for many years of dedicated service at the Homer Township Public Library! Julie, please stay in touch.

Sheree

Webpage

The horizontal drop-down menu bar has been removed. The menu bar was not working with newer versions of the IE.

All Homer Pages are accessible through the menu on the left.
My Account and Renew are accessible through the catalog link.

Thanks!

TEXAS ROADHOUSE

Our week #2 winner of the Texas Roadhouse certificate for the summer reading program is Angela Fleege. She has been called and her certificate is in the Patron Appl. drawer.

COMPUTER SURVEY

Everyone was emailed a survey about each persons computer skills. This survey is required by the Illinois State Library for the Per Capita Grant. Please check your email and complete this as soon as possible.

If you have any questions, please ask me.

Thanks for doing this so quickly!

Bookkmobile: Untamed Animals Bookmark Contest

Contest runs from June 22-July 1st. Please place entries turned in at the circ desk in the manilla envelope hanging on the cork strip.

GOLDEN OPPORTUNITIES

Thanks to your efforts we have sold the last Golden Opportunity Coupon Book!

Thank you!!!!!

BEWARE THE SWINGING DOOR

The door at the Circ desk is great, BUT everyone must be careful when letting it swing. It may just come back and swing on your ankle or foot. This has happened already...
Personally I try to keep my hand on the top to avoid the "big swing".

DVDs - Update

The DVD collection is most popular! More movies (of all ratings type) will be placed available this week.

I would like to update staff so you know that many years ago the Homer Library adopted as part of our policy the ALA Freedom to Read and ALA Freedom to View statements. Copies are in the staff kitchen. We do not restrict materials to anyone. This includes DVDs. The ratings included on DVDs are recommendations and not legally restricted. More information is here: http://www.mpaa.org/RatingsParentInfo.asp

The Board believes reading, listening, and viewing choices are individual, private matters. People are free to select or reject materials for themselves and their own minor children but are not to infringe upon the freedom of others to read or inquire. Homer Library District does not stand in place of the parent (in loco parentis). Parents and guardians have the responsibility to guide and direct the reading, listening and viewing choices of their own minor children and adolescents.

In the event that someone may inquire if we restrict DVDs or other material, please feel free to direct them to the Library Director (me) or provide them with a comment sheet. Thank you!

Bookmobile "Wild World" June 23 may move to Library

The Bookmobile has an event scheduled for June 23@ 1:30 at Willow Walk Park called Wild World. The event may be moved to the Library if it is too hot (forcast is 92 degrees.) If patrons call with concerns about the heat, please have them phone in after 12 (noon) tomorrow at which time we will have decided where the event will take place.

Thank you, as ever, for your assistance.

Used book sale

A used book sale is being planned for August 6-10. Last year we were able to raise a large amount of money that helped supplement our book and program budget! We hope that this year will be just as successful.

This year's used book sale is an all staff book sale --- look for more info from Sheree and Sara in the future.

Today's post is to provide you with used book sale dates
Book Sale- August 6, 7, 8, 10.
Collecting starts - July 27
Organizing books and volunteer opportunities begin July 29

WEEKLY TEXAS ROADHOUSE RAFFLE

Carmella Dizeo won the weekly summer reading raffle for Texas Roadhouse. She has been called, and her certificate is in the Patron Application drawer.

FIREWORKS INFO

Last year people were calling to find out information regarding local firework displays. The information is posted on the white board.

Zoo Passes

Hi Ladies,
Due to the OVERWHELMING requests for Zoo Passes this summer, we are changing the check out time to 2 days. Since June 1 we have had 27 check outs.....by limiting the passes to 2 days we can check out approximately 4 more passes each week. If the passes are checked out after 5:00 we will still start the check out time the next day.

Thank you, Kitty

MOVED...

The cash register has been moved to the right of the door going into the workroom. It is not as visible in this spot.

COLD STONE CREAMERY FUNDRAISER

Starting today we are giving out vouchers for a fundraiser at Cold Stone Creamery in Lockport. The vouchers are available at the Circ desk, reading desk, bookmobile and website. Encourage patrons to visit Cold Stone on Tuesday, June 23rd, Wednesday, June 24th, and Thursday, June 25th. There will be staff scooping ice cream on each day from 4-7 p.m. The bookmobile will be there on Thursday from 4-7 p.m. Also, everyone who turns in a voucher is eligible to win a Cold Stone cake or $15 Cold Stone gift card. The vouchers can be used all day any of the 3 days (not just from 4-7).

Congratulations to Sara!

I am pleased to announce that Sara McCambridge has been elected to the PALS Librarians' Advisory Committee. This is an advisory group established by the PALS Board of Directors to serve as a formal conduit of information to the Executive Director and Board of Directors on matters of concern to PALS members.

The Committee is comprised of eight elected and seven appointed members. The Librarians' Advisory Committee meets quarterly.

I am most proud that Sara is representing the Homer Library and serving the PALS members in this new way.

Congratulations, Sara!

DVDs are HERE & other collection news...

The new DVD collection is showcased in the new arrivals area bookcases. Please take a moment to note where they are. Signage is being posted on all computers and on the shelving area to ensure that customers are aware that DVDs are ready to go, so I imagine staff will be getting questions!

New end caps and computer tables (grant funded!) are in place. They customize the space and will allow us to showcase the library and our collections better.

In other collection news -
- Polish and Spanish collections are being exchanged with the Audio and Large Print books in the new book area. This showcases LP and Audio and moves the other two collections in a separate range by the window.
- New Non-fiction will be re-located to the new end caps by the regular non-fiction stacks
- Adult Services will use the end cap closest to the Help Desk for special collections

Please take a moment to review these coming changes.

Next up is the Teen Center!!!! More details will follow about that.

NEW AV CABINET

NEW PLACE FOR CD’S !

THEY ARE NOW IN THE BLUE CABINET NEXT TO THE “ON HOLD” SHELF.
WE WILL CALL THE BLUE CABINET THE “AV CABINET” FROM NOW ON SINCE THE DVD’S WILL BE KEPT IN THERE ALSO.

CD & DVD RETURNS TO BE FILED AND I.L.L. ITEMS WILL BE KEPT ON THE COUNTER TOP WHERE THE CD'S WERE PREVIOUSLY LOCATED.

Bookmobile: National Book Award Contest Winners

Three winners for the Bookmobile National Book Award bookmark contest have been contacted. They will come into the library to pick up their prizes which are on JodyO's desk/shelf.

Please take a photo of the winners.

Thank you so much!

Mary Poppin's Tickets

Because it is too hard to keep tract of the people that are entering the ticket give away, just give the patrons a ticket if they ask.
Thanks, Kitty

Teen Intern Program: Deadline Extended

The deadline for Teen Intern Applications has been extended to Monday, June 8th. I've changed the date on the applications.

Thanks!

CONGRATULATIONS!!!!!

Congratulations to Judy!!!! Her daughter Kendra had a darling little girl last Tuesday, May 26. Her name is Lily Ellen and she is gorgeous! Congratulations, Judy!

FYI - Jean Norka

Homer Resident Jean Norka passed away Sunday morning. Many of you may have known Jean, or her children Jenny and Alex. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the Norka Family.

Her visitation will be held on Friday, June 5 from 2-9 at
Robert J. Sheehy & Sons Funeral Home - Orland Park
9000 W. 151st St.Orland Park IL 60462

Mary Poppins Tickets

We have received 4 tickets for Mary Poppins for Thursday, June 25.
Julie has made a display in the message kiosk as well as a can for the raffle tickets to be located at the check out desk. Please give each Adult 1 ticket to be put in the bucket. Please remind them that the tickets are for Thursday evening, June 25 at 8:00. There are no refunds or date exchanges.

The winner will be notified on Friday June 19.
Thanks,
Kitty

Tornado Guildlines

The library's tornado watch and warning guidelines are posted on the cabinet door above the sink in the workroom. If you have any questions, please ask me.

Newsletter to Public

The newsletter will be available to the public at the desk on Tuesday, May 26 and will be in the Homer Horizon on June 4.

Newsletter

The Summer Newsletter is on the website!
Go to the library homepage - click Read Our Newsletter in the upper right corner

CONES

When putting the cones out in the morning, will you place one of the cones on the sidewalk directly in front of the doors? There is a broken piece of concrete that you almost always step in when entering the building. One of the staff turned her ankle, not badly, but someone else may not be as fortunate. Thanks.

FRIENDS RAFFLE

Roscoe Rea won the Friends Raffle for an Olive Garden gift card. He has been called. The card is in the drawer below the cash register.

Safety Cones near Outside Benches

There are orange safety cones blocking the benches at the front of the building. The pavers are disintegrating which has produced a safety issue. Please bring the cones into the entry way each night at closing and put them back out in the morning. We are in the process of getting quotes to repair the pavers so until the situation is corrected the cones must be put out to prevent any injuries.
Thanks.

PR DISPLAY TOWER

A new PR display tower has been placed in front of Circulation. Upcoming program fliers should be posted here.

Round Table

There is a round table between the book display and CD case for patrons to sit down.

Databases

Please take a minute to look at 3 of our new databases.
EBSCO has provided us with free access for the Coin Career Library.
We also have access to resources in Salem Health and Salem History, a free service for owning print copies.

You can access the databases at http://homerlibrary.org/findit.asp.

Sheree elected to ILA

It’s now official!
I have been elected to the Illinois Library Association (ILA) Executive Board, with my first meeting in June. Exciting times ahead!

Sheree Kozel-La Ha

FYI - article about Barry Levine

There is an article about Barry in the Horizon at http://www.homerian.com/Articles-c-2009-05-13-195429.112113_Barry_Levine_19492009.html

OUTDOOR PLANTERS

New flowers were planted in the 2 planters in the front of the library. I am asking each department to take a turn watering them every day. There is a plastic jar you can use. Fill it to the top and use 1/2 on each planter. After watering, pass the watering jar to the next department on the list. (The list is on the watering jar).
Thank you for your cooperation!
P.S. In the event of rain, use your discretion if it needs to be watered or not.

33C SCHOOL LINKS

School District 33C has asked that we put three links on the computer lab desktops. The first is 33C's website; the second is "Think Central" which allows teachers to post the course syllabus, give assignments and much more.



The third is SchoolMAX which gives parents access their child's information. The last two sites require user id's and passwords which we DO NOT have nor are we able to get. Each parent and child was given those by the school. If anyone asks... we are NOT able to get this information from anyone. The school refuses to give us one because each child has a different user id.



Any questions please ask me.

Early sign up allowed for Bookmobile: Get Wild in the Wilderness

Girl Scout Troop 515 and the Bookmobile will be presenting "Get Wild In The Wilderness" on Wednesday, June 10th from 10-12 at Culver Park. Outdoor games, storytelling, and crafting will be part of the activities. Registration is recommended. Free.

A sign up sheet for the event has been added to the registration book under the BOOKMOBILE tab. A map and directions to Culver Park from the Library are stapled to the back.

Early registration will be allowed for this event due to the close proxemity of the newsletter publication. Other events will adhere to the June 15th sign up date established in the newsletter.

Collecting Stats again

We're collecting stats again! Sheets are located by the main computers.

COMPUTER ROOM

I am working on the Time Limit Manager problems and have tried something on computers 1-4.
Also, computers 1-4 have Icons for Homer 33c. Icons are in the top right corner.
Picture in email.
AND, computers 1-4 have had their Internet upgraded to Internet Explorer 8.

Notary Services

On April 27th the Library Board revised the notary public services that are offered to our patrons; due to the changes of the Illinois Law regarding the notaries, the library is no longer offering this service effective immediately.

Please explain to patrons that due to the new more stringent legal process the board has made the decision to stop this service.

BE PREPARED

We want to be proactive with the flu that is going around so please note:

• Every evening wipe ALL the computer keyboards and mice with antibacterial cloths
  o Circ will take care of the Computer Room and Circ Desk.
  o Adult Services will take care of the Card Catalogs and their own computers.
  o Children’s dept will take care of the AWE and their own computers
  If any department needs help accomplishing this each evening, then offer your help.

Take care of yourself! Wash your hands frequently &/or use the Purell products.
Plastic gloves will be available if you feel the need to use them.

Trustee Barry Levine

Barry Levine, Homer Library Trustee, PALS trustee, and friend to many, passed away last night.

Barry loved the library and was a wonderful supporter and advocate for books, reading and literacy. He will be greatly missed by many people and organizations that he devoted his time and energy to. His passing was unexpected, and his wife Phyllis remarked to me that he was listening to a book when she found him. Barry would think that was a fine ending to his wonderful life.

We extend our deepest sympathy to his wife, children, family and friends.

Barry has been our trustee and advocate for more than 13 years. For me, it has been a pleasure and an honor to have worked with Barry for 12 of those 13 years. This man, our trustee, our advocate, our friend, will be sorely missed.

The arraingments are pending.

Bookmobile Raffle Winner: International TV Turn Off

Bookmobile Raffle winner, Lukas has been called. Prize is on JodyO's shelf. Please take a photo. Thank you!

ZOO PASSES

Please check the patron information in the computer.
They must be 18(plus) and have a Valid ADULT Homer Library card.

LOCATION BOARD UPDATE

The new IN/OUT board now hangs where the older one was before. Patti will be making the type larger. The staff calendar is back by the register.

The managers as well as staff will mark when they are on vacation, at a program or workshop or have to leave the building for some purpose.

Bookmobile Preschool Visit Rescheduled

Welcome Place Preschool Bookmobile visit for April has been rescheduled to Wed. April 22 from 10-11:30 and 1:00-2:00.

Bookmobile hosts local author at Victorian Village

Sue Durkin, author of Life is Like Making Chocolate Chip Cookies, will be making a presention to Victorian Village residents on Friday, May 1st @1:30 p.m.

Bookmobile Schedule

Hello to all.

The Bookmobile was towed to the garage last Saturday due to an electrical failure. Thank you to everyone who helped inform patrons, assist with staffing and generally supported the Bookmobile staff during this episode. Maryellen did an admirable job, ably assisted by Nicole and Bonnie, in taking the proper steps to ensure safety and to initiate resolution of the problem.

Thanks also goes out to the mechanic staff at 33C who came out on Saturday to help. This morning, Monday, they ascertained that it was in fact an electrical problem.

The Bookmobile was in for routine generator maintenance last week, the two issues are unrelated.

On Tuesday, April 21st rescheduled stops to Marian Village 9:30-10:15, Victorian Village 10:30-11:15, and Founders Crossing 11:30-12:00 will take place.

Thanks!

Teen Intern Program Applications

Applications for this summer's Teen Intern Program are now available throughout the library (at the circ/reference/youth desks). It's open to teens in 6th grade & up, which includes teens who are going into 6th grade in the fall.

The deadline to apply is June 1st. Teens will be notified of their schedule by June 8th. Please give completed applications to Heather. Thanks!

LOCATION BOARD

In answer to comments in the idea bucket, Patti has put up a new IN/OUT board that hangs by the cash register. The staff calendar was moved over the copier across from my (Sara's) desk.

The managers as well as staff will mark when they are on vacation, at a program or workshop or have to leave the building for some purpose.

Thank you for this suggestion and we'll see if this helps clarify staff location during their scheduled work time.

Keep those suggestions coming!

Sara

COPIERS

The copiers have been fixed, whenever you resolve a jam, please close the doors gently. We dislodged a senor when we closed the door rather hard and after a few hard closes the sensor won't line up right. Also, be gentle with the door and the hinge on it, the black strip that holds it together is very delicate.

The B/W copier was cleaned so we are up and running with both machines!

BOOKMOBILE

Bookmobile service has been cancelled for today, Monday, April 13,2009 due to mechanical maintenance. Services will resume tomorrow. This message is posted on our website.

Golden Opportunities

The 2009 Golden Opportunities coupon books are now 1/2 price at $13.
Thanks.
Sara

PARKING LOT BANNERS

FYI: Folgers Flag has been called to repair the flag banner at the entrance to the library parking lot.

Board Vacancy

There is currently a vacancy on the Library Board - The notice below is posted between the entrance doors. Anyone who would like to apply for this position has to fill out an application or form, which is also on the board in the hallway, and give it to Sheree. If the patron drops it off, put it on Sheree's desk. This is an appointed position.

Thanks if you have any questions, please ask.

Sara

Effective April 8, 2009, the Homer Township Public Library has one (4-year) board of trustee vacancy. All interested candidates must fill out a Prospective Board Member form and return it to the Library Director, Sheree Kozel-La Ha. Forms are attached.

Bookmobile Raffle Winner: Easter Guessing Jar

Katie won the Easter Guessing Jar contest. A voice message has been left at her home. The prize, complete with her name and a chicken, is on JodyO's desk/shelf. Careful, of book-alanches if you enter that area! Thanks.

Reed School Book

Patron returned a Dr. Seuss book here that belongs to Reed School. He came to pick it up but there was no note in the "Pulled" book on the holds shelf and it wasn't on the hold shelf on Monday night. (4-6-09).
Please remember to make a note in the "White Holds Pulled" book when book is placed on Hold shelf and again when it is picked up!
Thanks,
js

Shop and Share

The Friends of the Homer Township Library are hosting a Shop & Share at Jewel Foods this week. The coupons are available at the circ desk and the dates are Monday, April 6 through Wednesday the 8th. Sorry for the short notice but we just found out about this.
Thanks,
Sara

DVD Collection

This is an FYI.... Matt Gonzales is seeking his Eagle Scout. His Eagle Scout project is to collect 600 DVD's for the library. This project is currently underway.

Donated Jeans

We now have a bin for jeans that patrons are donating to the Jean Drive. It is below the donated DVD table, next to the free paperbacks.

For more info on the Jeans Drive, scroll down a few posts! :)

Thanks!

FRIENDS

Cheryl Nabors won the overnight stay at the Staybridge Suites in Oakbrook. Congratulations, Cheryl! The envelope is at the circ desk with her name on it.

The donation for April's Friends is a $10 gift certificate to Olive Garden!

Thank you to all of you who keep putting the Friends names in the bucket!

COMPUTER LAB

Please shut off the lab computers every night. This shut down enables the machines to wipe out everything that may have been downloaded during the day. Thanks!

IDEA BUCKETS - Your input is Needed!

We are looking for your top 3 ideas, thoughts, compliments, issues, suggestions, recommendations, tweaks, or notes, etc. that you may want to note to any department.

We have placed "Idea Buckets" for each department in the staff kitchen, so simply type or print out your thought and place it in any department's bucket. Idea bucket thoughts will be reviewed and discussed on Friday, April 4 @ our in-service day during the department round table team meetings (not with the entire staff).

Before Friday, April 4 please think about your department and our other library departments. Submit your top three (or more) ideas! All submissions will be anonymous and will be used for discussion to strengthen teamwork and communication. This is a new forum in which we can encourage communication and extend an opportunity for all departments to receive staff input!

All "Idea Buckets" have the names of every department's team member on them.

Some ground rules:
~~Positive comments are best received; make suggestions if you have an idea for change.
~~Everyone is expected to participate. Remember the entire department team will be reviewing comments.

PARTICIPATE & BE HEARD!

Time Management

Until patrons become accustomed to the time management on the computers, will you let them know that there is a 60 minute time limit on each computer. Tell them they have to come to the desk when they have 10 minutes left and provided no one is waiting we will extend their time. Also, remind them to save their work as they go ~ if the time limit is up, they lose all their work.

Thanks,
Sara

Time Management Update ~ VIP

PLEASE NOTE: When you extend a patron's time on the computers in the lab, the time does not revert back to the 60 minutes once that patron signs off the computer. Therefore, will you go back into the time management and put the time limit back to the original 60 minutes?

If you have any questions, please ask me.

Thanks.

Jean Drive

The YACs are sponsoring a Jean Drive at the library. Patrons are being asked to bring in gently used jeans during April & May -- however, we can accept jeans now if someone comes in with them (please give them to Julie or Heather). All sizes are accepted, but jeans only (no pants). The jeans will be donated to the Daybreak Shelter in Joliet.

Thanks!

New database

We have access to another new database - Salem Press: Health.

Patrons can access it through the FindIt online page.

Bookmobile Udderly Cool Coloring Contest Winners

Three winners have been chosen for the coloring contest. The prizes are on JodyO's desk/shelf. Each prize is tagged with the winners name. Winners have been called.

Please take a photo of our winners.

Thank you!

Computer Classes

We've found a new instructor for the Office 2007 computer classes, so patrons can again sign up for these classes. There are some new dates, but they are listed on the sign up sheets & below.

Registration for each month's class begins on the first day of that month (for example, registration for classes held in March opens on March 1st).

Basics of Microsoft Office Word 2007
March 26th at 6:30pm
April 5th at 6:30pm
April 28th at 6:30pm
May 4th at 6:30pm

Basics of Microsoft Office Excel 2007
May 6th at 6:30pm
May 7th at 6:30pm
May 12th at 6:30pm
May 16th at 9am

Basics of Microsoft PowerPoint 2007
May 28th at 6:30pm
June 1st at 6:30pm

Thanks!

URGENT NOTICE

Do NOT sign any more people up for the computer classes.
The instructor has cancelled.
Alex is making efforts to find a new instructor and will update when something is ready.

WOLVES READING BASKETS

The bookmobile Winter Reading Raffles are located on the CD's. The winners have been called and their names are on the basket.

JEWEL SHOP N SHARE

We have another fundraiser at Jewel for next MONDAY 3/16 - TUESDAY 3/17 and WEDNESDAY 3/18. Shop N Share coupons are available at Circulation. Please encourage patrons to use these. They are good at ANY JEWEL.

COLORING CONTEST

The Homer Chamber of Commerce and Victorian Village will be holding an Easter Egg Hunt on Saturday, April 4th at Victorian Village for children up to age 10. There is also an Easter coloring contest. Coloring forms are available at the library and on the bookmobile. Forms must also be turned in here or on the BM. The deadline for entry is Monday, March 30th. Winners will be announced at the Egg Hunt. Further details are on the back of the coloring form.

Veteran's History Project

We're looking for Veterans willing to share their stories with the library and Library of Congress. These stories will become part of the Veteran's History Project at www.loc.gov/vets/ Please take down the names and contact information of any veteran that calls or comes in that may be interested in participating in the project. Once we receive a short list of names, we will make arrnagments to schedul a day to record all veteran stories.

OUTDOOR BANNERS

Folger's Flag will be in some time within the next few days to hang new post banners in the parking lot. In case I am not here, the banners are on the floor in front of Sara's desk. One side should display READ and GROW and the other side should display HTPL.

WINTER READING

There were additional prizes of hats and bobbleheads for the Winter Reading program. Winners are being called so they will be coming in to pick up their prizes. Prizes are located in the staff room on the table behind Carol.

DONATIONS FOR TROOPS

We will be drop off point for donations for Troops.
There will be a box, poster and literature.
Approx. one week
They will have a specific list of needs.

HARRISON'S RAFFLE

The final name was pulled for the Harrison's gift certificate. Marge Gleus has been notified and the certificate is in the drawer near the cash register.

10 Weeks to a Tech Savvy Parent

10 weeks to a tech savvy parent
You may have seen the business cards advertising the library's 10 Weeks to a Tech Savvy Parent. This is a small part of our computer grant. For the next 10 weeks, this project, hosted on learnhub.com, will cover one Web 2.0 tool and a few Internet Safety tips. This program is not just for parents but for all patrons! The idea is to get parents and adults familiar with the tools that their children, business associates, friends and family may be using.
At this time, parents will need to register on learnhub.com to access the “course.”
We're taking patron suggestions. If they'd like to see something covered, please let use know.

Friends Fannie May Chocolate Basket

Betty Lou Fracassi won the Fannie May Chocolate Basket from the Friends raffle. Betty Lou will be in to pick up her chocolate!

FRIENDS RAFFLE

There is a new Friends raffle beginning Monday, March 2nd. New or existing Friends members are eligible for a raffle ticket for a chance to win a 1-night stay at the Staybridge Suites in Oak Brook. Winner will be pulled on April 1st.

SCHOLASTIC BOOK SALE

The Scholastic books that were for sale on the table across from reference have been relocated to the meeting room. If a patron is purchasing any of these books they must bring them up to Circulation. The books are now on sale for BUY ONE GET THE SECOND ONE (of lesser value) @ 50% OFF.

CIRCULATION DEPARTMENT

Circ,
Read your Emails too!
I don't think that some notes specific to Circ should be broadcast to the whole staff.
Jody

DVDs are coming soon

To date we have had more than 100 DVDs donated. Yesterday staff purchased enough additional movies to process and open this new collection soon. We thank the Friends Group for their support. We were able to adjust our collection development budget to help purchase and support bringing the DVD collection forward.

Location, tagging, etc. are being discussed. Most of the movies are children's and family. We will open the collection with those that may fall in other categories, too.

In other news we are discussing discontinuing the VHS movies that we currently own.

More details will be forthcoming about the new DVD collection and VHS collection soon.

Last Day to Register to Vote for April Election

From: Nancy Schultz Voots, Will County Clerk

The last day to take registrations for voting in the April 7th Consolidated Election is Tuesday, March 10th.

All registrations you take on or before March 10th must be returned to the County Clerk’s office NO LATER than Thursday, March 12th, either by mail or in person. Registration will re-open on Thursday, April 9th.

If you have any questions, please call the Registration Department at
815/740-4620.

Becky Gilliam Will County Clerk's Office Elections Department
Phone: (815) 740-4794

LIBRARY CARDS ...

PATRONS RENEWING OR REPLACING LIBRARY CARDS

o If the patron has any old fine or fee over $5.00, do not issue a new card or update their current one unless the payment is made down to $5.00.

o If the patron has any lost items on their card, do not issue a new card or update their current one unless the complete payment is made.

PALS website & news

Please take a moment to view the PALS website @ http://www.palsnet.info/

as well as the Prairie Area System newsletters @ http://www.palsnet.info/news-sharing/prairie-views-newsletter

Both will keep staff up to date on issues of importance at the system level, in opportunities, and news to note.

Udderly Cool Coloring Contest: Bookmobile

MOOOOO!

Patrons will be dropping off their udderly cool coloring sheets. There is an envelope on the cork strip you may place them in. Thanks.

ALSO, some bookmobile patrons may be turning their Winter Reading forms (they are the same forms YS is using). Please put them on JodyO's desk. Thanks again.

FLOPPY DISK DRIVES

The computers in the computer room no longer have "floppy disk drives".
If a patron has a floppy disk, there is a "plug and play" drive they can borrow here. It is hanging behind the Flash Drives for sale.

Floppy disk drives are no longer standard on new computers so the patron might be told that Flash drives are even better. (More can be saved on our cheapest Flash drive (512mb) than on a Floppy disk (1.4mb).

Library Friends news...

Due to personal reasons, Eileen McCaffrey, the Library Friends' group coordinator, has resigned. We are happy that Eileen remains a library advocate and Friends member, but she won't be serving in such an active role as she has done in the past.

Please know that the Library Friends group continues on. To date they have done a wonderful job and raised approximately $807 in funds to help support our library.

Thank you for your support of this group.

New Word Processing Stations

We have added several new word processing stations throughout the library. The computer across from the Adult Help Desk has an AWE computer next to it, so a parent can work on the computer while his or her child can sit quietly next to them. Two of the word processing computers are in the charrols in front of the Large Print collection.

None of them are Internet accessible. If a patron wants to print they will have to save their work on a flash drive, bring it up to circ and you will print it off for them and charge the same rate as if the patron printed it from the computer room.

Currently, these word processing computers are on a first-come first-serve basis. If you see people standing around waiting to use these particular machines, please let us know and we'll re-address time limits.

Library has received lots of great press!

And our very own Sara McCambridge was featured in Homer Horizon's someone you should know column!

http://www.southtownstar.com/neighborhoodstar/orlandpark/1411163,020509ORamericangirl.article

http://www.homerian.com/Articles-c-2009-02-09-191248.112113_Homer_library_adds_more_than_20_new_computers.html

http://www.triblocal.com/Homer_Glen/List_View/view.html?type=photos&action=detail&sub_id=47297

PROCESSING FEE

Processing fees will be added to the item record as of 2/11/08 and begin with barcode 3 2889 00214 1200.

Any item with the barcode lower than this will still have $3.00 added to the cost when they are paid for lost.

If a library calls for an older item, then tell them the cost + processing fee. If they don’t call then they will be paying the amount shown on the computer. This decision has been made at the system level. Currently they don’t have time to add the processing fee en mass. If they can go back and do the barcodes before this one, everyone will be notified.

Questions about items under $10.00. (board books, magazines, paperbacks)
We will continue to not charge our own people these processing fees when they come in.
If the item has a barcode “214 1200” or higher deduct the $3.00.
If the item has a lower barcode then treat as usual.

Economic Stimulus update

We have submitted our capital building project details to state officials for consideration to be funded through the federal government's economic stimulus program. It is a "wait and see" time. I will keep you posted...
Sheree

FEBRUARY FREINDS-ZY

The Fannie Mae raffle basket is for patrons who join the Friends Group in the month of February. Raffle tickets are at the circulation desk along with $5 library bucks and 10 free copies coupons which they will receive along with a raffle ticket when they join the Friends group this month. Applications are at the table (across from Reference) along with the basket and a raffle can. The date to pull the winning ticket will be determined shortly.

MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET RAFFLE

There is a new raflle at the Reference/Help desk. Tickets are available at the help desk. The raffle is for a family 4-pack of tickets to see the Million Dollar Quartet on any Wednesday, Thursday or Sunday evening performance through March29th. Only one entry per person. Winner will be pulled on Monday, March 2nd.

LIBRARY LOVER'S MONTH RAFFLE

Harrison's Gift Certificates: Week 3 winner is Joan Giroux. Week 2 winner is Janine Klepitsch. Week 1 winner is Kortney Weisenfluh. They have been notified. The certificates are in the drawer next to/below the cash register.

Bookmobile Football Follies Winner

Brendan Spratt has won the bookmobile Football Follies raffle prize. The prize is on a shelf above JodyO's desk.

Please take a photo of our winner. Thank you.

PRESCRIPTION CARDS

The supplemental prescription cards that now available in Will Co. can be picked up at the Homer Township Offices.
Their regular hours are Monday-Friday 8-4
phone number is 708-301-0522

AWE Children's computers

Please take a minute to look at the new AWE Computers in the kids deparatment.......They are AWEsome. They are loaded with tons of educational and fun activities. We have set the computers to shut down at closing time. The kids will receive a message that the computer will shut down in 10 minutes. They are programmed to go on again at 8:00 am. Please take a look at them......the keyboards are color coded and the mouse controls are designed for little hands.
Thank you Sheree for getting the Grant to provide the kids with these great new computers.
kitty

LIBRARY LOVER'S MONTH

In honor of Library Lover's month we will be holding a weekly raffle for patrons. The raffle tickets and can will be at Circulation. The rules are 1 entry per person per day. We will be giving away a $25 Harrison's gift certificate each week.

ABE TURNS 200

Guess how many pennies in the jar. There is a small jar of pennies in the Youth Services department. Anyone can make a guess. There is paper next to the jar so they can fill in their name, ph# and guess. We will pick a winner on February 13th. The winner will receive a Lincoln book and all the pennies in the jar.

It's time to take stats!

If this is your first time or you have questions please contact the reference department.
thanks for all that you do!

Go Red! Girls Night Out!

Go Red! Girls Night Out! starts at 6:30 pm, not 7 pm.

DISPLAYS IN THE EASY SECTION

All the displays on the top of the EASY bookshelves are now labeled with the collection that should be displayed in them. This is to avoid indiscriminate displaying of books.
Seasonal books may be displayed as the Youth Services directs. Currently the Valentine books are on the slats at the front of the Youth Services desk.

IMPACT FEES

As of the January 26th Board Meeting the impact fees for Homer Township have changed to $212.

The impact fees for Lockport will remain the same at $50 or $100.

This is to begin immediately.

If you have any questions, please ask.

Thanks,

Sara

DVDs coming soon... (I hope)!

So far we have had 61 movies donated! Please feel free to encourage anyone you know that might donate movies, especially children, family viewing, or classics. We will accept all donations!

We need to top 200 DVDs to open this collection for loan. I have submitted a grant to assist with funding the DVD collection and will learn if it is successful in February. Hopefully, we will continue to get DVD donations from residents AND get the grant awarded.

Feel free to mention to your friends, clubs, scouts, or other groups, that we are seeking donations to establish this new collection. The more people that know - the better! Thank you.

ROCKS AND MINERALS

Mrs. Santucci from Ludwig School is doing her annual Rocks and Minerals Project. Julie has pulled some books and marked them "in library use only." The books are located on the display shelf in front of Kathy's desk. There are additional books for checkout located in Juvenile and Adult Non-Fiction in the 520's.
Thanks, Kitty

January 19th DUE DATE

So I guess people had books due on a day we were closed.
Waive the fine for that day if necessary.
I also called to have the due date adjusted too so anything due on Jan 19th have been switched to the 20th.
My apologies especially since the overdue notices will come for that day already!

Bookmobile Service Cancelled Wed. Jan. 14th, 2009

Bookmobile Service is cancelled for the evening of Wednesday, January 14th due to weather conditions.

We are checking to see if PALS can renew patrons books.

New Bookmobile Stop at Messenger Circle

The bookmobile has a new stop at Messenger Circle. The stop begins on Monday, January 12th from 12-12:30. Extra Large Print materials will be on board. Visits will continue every other Monday. These times are not reflected in our current bookmobile schedule.

The dates are as follows:
January 26
February 9
February 23
March 9
March 23
April 6
April 20
May 4
May 18
June 1
June 15
June 29
July 13
July 27
August 10
August 24

BOOK SALE
The Friends group has an ongoing book sale. The books are located on a table across from circ. The cost of the books are posted on the back cover. Do NOT put the money in the register.... please write the amount of the books on the paper at circ and put the money in the envelope attached. If you have to make change, talk to Cindy.

Please have the patron make their checks payable to "Friends of Homer Township." If you have any questions, please ask me.

Thank you!

I appreciate everything today. Thank you for celebrating my birthday with me!
SHEREE

IRS Forms

Thanks for putting the Income Tax Forms link on the blog.....I find that very useful.
Kitty

Computer Room

The Computer Room has reopened! There are now 6 computers in the room, we did not place the "broken" computers back into the computer room. The computer located by the tax forms is a card catalog computer -- you can still let people use this computer when the room is full. However, this will change once the administrator settings are placed back onto the computer. Thanks!

New Catalog

The new catalog is coming! Don’t forget to take a look at the catalog and play around. During the next week (starting Wed. afternoon), I’d like to meet with everyone individually to look at the new catalog and our new database, Gale Virtual Reference Library. Please make sure to meet with me when our schedules overlap. Thanks! Alex

Tax form links

IRS

Direct link - http://www.irs.gov/formspubs/index.html?portlet=3

Homepage - http://www.irs.gov/

Illinois

Direct link - http://www.revenue.state.il.us/taxforms/index.htm

Homepage - http://www.revenue.state.il.us/