SAFETY / NAME TAGS

SAFETYIt’s cold outside and this brings more visitors into the library; and they often spend large chunks of time here. This is a reminder to be aware, be observant, and take steps to keep staff and building items safe. Please walk out to vehicles at closing together and be vigilant in keeping watch. DO NOT HESITATE to call the police if anything arises or immediately bring to a manager’s attention anything that concerns you. Please also make sure you are securing your personal valuables (purse, etc.) and do not leave anything “out” at your desk or in general areas. Let’s all be smart and proactive with safety and security.

NAMETAGSYou are required to wear a name tag or lanyard. We want our customers to readily identify who staff are, so you need to wear one. Winter themed inserts for the lanyards will be in the staff kitchen this week.
On a side note any volunteer or community worker also needs a name tag. We will provide self-stick on ones for this purpose (not lanyards any longer – as this denotes a staff member, which community service and volunteers are not). These self-stick name tags will say “volunteer” for teens/adults when they assist with programs or teens can wear a volunteer shirt. We also will have ones that say “community service volunteer” for those that need to have hours for HS or other. If you have any questions about this, please speak with me or Sara.

Thanks everyone. We support a safe and positive atmosphere here. As you may have noted, police officers have come in lately and we continue to ask them to visit. And nametags and lanyards will help customers know who they should be approaching and designate those non-staff helpers for all of us.

Again, if you have any questions, let me know.
Sheree

Staff Appreciation Brunch

The board would like the pleasure of your company at our Annual Staff Appreciation Brunch on Sunday, January 9th at 11 a.m. at Woodbine Banquet Hall. We value our library team and hope you can attend this special event in your honor. Please mark your calendar, and note there will be a sign up sheet in the kitchen. Please RSVP by Monday, December 27th.
Sheree

NEW TIME CLOCK

We are starting to use our new time clock on Sunday, December 5th. You will clock in using the old time clock and the new for this month. In the new year we will only use the new time clock.

The new time clock is on the circ computer facing the computer room.




To clock in or out you use your override code as before.
Type in your code
Press Enter
Choose IN or OUT
Your name should show up saying you have clocked in or out.

A form is being created for you to fill out to request time off.

If you have any question please come and see me.

Interlibrary Loaning of DVD

We are now lending DVD's to Libraries out of our system.

Museum Pass Update guidelines

Homer Library patrons pick up passes from this program here.

The person “checking out” a pass must have a valid Homer Library card (the whole barcode number should be entered and printed on the pass). They must be told that they may be asked for a picture ID when they use the pass.

Staff is responsible for checking the current passes that are out since only one pass per family is allowed. (Click on “View/Reprint Current Passes” to check for duplicates.)

Afghan Raffle

David Natywa won the afghan raffle. The afghan is on the ledge by my desk; please take a picture of David when he picks it up.

Thanks.

Bookmobile: Halloween Costume Contest Winners

Winners for the Bookmobile Halloween Contest have been notified. The prizes are on the bookmobile dept. desk. Each felt monster bag has the patrons name attached. Thank you!

Museum Adventure Pass Update

Graue Mill closes for the season

Just a reminder to all the libraries that the Mill will be closing on Sunday, November 14 so please don't issue any passes that would expire after that date. We'll be reopening next April.

Possible Bookmobile Delay

The Bookmobile may be delayed to some stops this afternoon, Wednesday, October 27, due to road closures. A telephone pole near Sears on Bell Road is down. The road has been closed for repairs which may cause the Bookmobile to reroute.

Bookmobile: Township Halloween Party

Due to lack of parking at Schilling School, the Bookmobile will not be attending the Township Halloween Party as previously planned.

TEEN OPEN HOUSE

First of all, a HUGE THANK YOU to everyone for their help and hard work. Amid all the failures, I believe it was a success (at least that's what i've been told)!
We had a few raffle prize winners. There is a movie basket on the CD shelf (original tickets are in the attached envelope) and (2) Cardinal Fitness passes in the drawer under CD's. They have been called and should be in to pick up their prizes.

CASUAL DAY

Tuesday, October 19 is CASUAL DAY! You must wear your LANYARD to make your self identifiable as library staff.

Early Voting

　
Nancy Schultz Voots, Will County Clerk, wishes to inform voters that the General Election will be held on Tuesday, November 2, 2010. Available options to voters are:

EARLY VOTING – Must show government issued ID. Voting is available at the Will County Clerk’s Office or one of the specified early voting Local Clerk sites in which you reside. You must live within the city, village or township limits performing voting because the Local Clerks are only supplied with ballots for the residents that live within their limits.

Oct. 12 - Oct. 28
Village of Homer Glen, 14933 S. Founders Crossing, Homer Glen, 708-301-0632;
Open Monday - Friday 9 am - 4 pm; not open on Saturday.

Village of New Lenox, 1 Veterans Pkwy., New Lenox. 815-485-6452 also serving New Lenox Township; Monday - Friday 9am - 4:30 pm; not open on Saturday.

Homer Township Administration Office, 14350 W. 151 Street, Homer Glen, 708-301-0522; Monday - Friday 9 am - 11:30am & 12:30 - 2:30pm

New Lenox Township, 1100 S. Cedar Rd., New Lenox 815-485-6431; Monday - Friday 9 am - 2:30 pm

Bookmobile: Banned Books Winner

The winner of the Bookmobile Banned Books prize drawing is Tina L. The prize is a gift certificate in a cello bag with multicolored smiley faces. Her name is on the prize which is on the Bookmobile Dept. desk.

She has been notified.

Thank you.

Golden Opportunities Coupon Book

The new edition of the Golden Opportunities Books is available for purchase. As it has been for the last several years, the forms and books are in a box under my desk. Please have the patron or you fill out the form and put the $25 and form in the envelope inside the box.

Any questions, please ask me. There is a list of Homer and neighboring sponsors on the white board by circ.

THEY'RE BACK!

We're hatching again! Later this week our farmer friend (who took our newly hatched chicks last spring) will be delivering guinea fowl eggs for us to incubate. He will also take these to live on his farm when they hatch. We will be posting more information shortly and hope to have a few crafts and contests for this program. We hope to go live with the web cam again too. If you have any questions, please see Patti or Alex. How egg-citing!

AFGHAN RAFFLE CLARIFICATION

Just to clarify.....the previous "Friends" raffle is now closed. The new afghan raffle is open to everyone. Friends DO NOT receive a free raffle ticket just for showing their Friends sticker. Everyone must pay for a raffle ticket.

AFGHAN RAFFLE

There is a new afghan hanging at Circ. Tickets are $3 for ANYONE to purchase or 4/$10. If someone purchases the 4/$10 deal, they can receive a FREE FRIENDS MEMBERSHIP (individual or family). Use the pink raffle tickets and have new Friends members fill out the small form next to them in addition to the pink raffle ticket. Member forms can go in the money envelope....money does NOT go into the cash register! There is an envelope next to the register. Questions, see Sara.

MAY THE FORCE BE WITH YOU

The YS Star Wars program "May the Force Be With You" has opened up to all ages. There is NOT an on-line registration at EventKeeper for this program. However, there will be a sign up sheet at Circ. See Kathy if you have any questions.

Team Walking Contest

I’m think of having a Team Walking Contest for patrons in April or May.
I’d like to try it out with staff to make sure the program will work.

Depending on how many staff members are interested, the teams might be 3-4 people. You would need to wear a pedometer and keep track of your daily steps. You’ll turn your numbers into your team leader. The team with highest # of steps at the end of the month will receive a wonderful surprise (notice I said surprise, not prize.)

Please let me know if you’re interested.

TEEN OPEN HOUSE

On Tuesday, October 19th we will be holding our 2nd annual Teen Open House. The teens will be playing a "60-second showdown" game based on the Minute-To-Win-It TV series.

Beginning Friday, October 1st we will be accepting (teen) names to partcipate in "60-Second Showdown. There are fliers (with a participation form on the back) on the PR board, PR tower and in the Teen section of the library.

We are NOT taking on-line registrations for participation in "60-second showdown". TEENS MUST SIGN UP AT CIRCULATION. Registration is NOT required just to attend the Open House.

Take their PARTICIPATION/DISCLAIMER FORM which MUST BE SIGNED and attach it to the BLUE CLIPBOARD.
RECORD THEIR NAME (only their name from the top line) onto the SIGN-UP SHEET attached to the BLUE CLIPBOARD. Even if they are signing up as a team, each team member must submit their own form.
WE CAN ONLY SIGN UP 24 PARTICIPANTS - ALL PARTICIPANTS MUST BE TEENS.
Please notify Heather when we have signed up 24 teens.

If you have any questions, please see Alex, Heather, Patti or Kitty.

AUTHOR FAIR PRIZES

There are "book stack" baskets and Barnes & Noble gift card prizes (with a sling bag) in the workroom area. Winners have been notified and will be coming in to claim their prize. Each prize has the winning ticket with their name/ph# attached to the postcard hanging from the basket.

POSTERS FOR SALE

There are posters for sale on the Used Book sale shelf. They are $1/ea.

Teen gift wrapping

Find info at http://homerlibrary.org/teens.asp

Voters Registration

The last day for voter's registration in the November Election is Tuesday October 5th. It is also posted on the white board in the back room.

COSTUME SWAP

People may begin to bring in their costumes for the costume swap. Please direct them to the YS Help Desk where they will receive a "shopping" ticket in return for their donation. All donations will be kept in the meeting room.

Unable to find book in system

If you receive a phone call from a patron requesting a hold and unable to find the hold within system, please fill out a hold sheet. Reference staff will call the patron when the hold is placed or not placed.

This is due to the length of time it can take to place a hold.

1.) we often have to look at various catalogs to place holds
2.) we need to read the library's lending rules before placing the holds

COLLECTION IN FLUX -- UPDATE

I have created a chart for everyone to keep track of the Adult Fiction changes. The main one is by the light switches at circ and the pages all have a copy too.

Dirty CD or DVD

If it is a book on CD please find out what disc is dirty or skipping.
Also, please learn how to clean a disc by reading the instructions.
If you can't get to something right away make sure the note is clear & concise for someone else. Also, put all the items to be cleaned by the SkipDr. (Cleaner) [I will put a box by the machine to hold necessary parts.]
Thank you

BARRY LEVINE STATUE

Dear Staff:
We have heard many compliments about the “children reading on the bench” statue as an attractive visual that greets incoming customers.
It is our privilege to honor Barry Levine with this statue. This artwork was funded from donations added to the library budget. State Standards note that libraries, as cultural institutions should have a degree of artwork in place. The library is pleased to showcase this statue in memory of Barry, who was a wonderful library advocate, former trustee, and Homer Library Friend.
For the foreseeable future the statue will remain inside. A dedication ceremony is being planned for October 17 – at 3:30 p.m. on Sunday. More details will be forthcoming soon. I hope many of you will attend.
It makes me very proud to have it here,
Sheree

Spiders and centipeded and flies...oh my!

The winner of the Spiders and centipeded and flies...oh my! Guessing Jar has been phoned. His name is on the jar which is located on the bookmobile desk. Thank you!

Green Bag Winners

At Expo, people had the chance to win green bags. Winners were given a postcard (which says "Green Bag Winner!" on the top in large font) & told that they could claim the prize at the library. If a patron comes in with a postcard, please give them one green bag & then put the redeemed postcard on Patti's desk.

Thanks!

COLLECTION IN FLUX

THIS WAS POSTED ON THE MYSTERY SPINNER.
I STARTED TO FILE THEM IN WITH THE HARD COVER REGULAR FICTION.

As of today paperbacks labeled “Mystery” may be in with the regular Hard Cover Adult Fiction.

Feel free to ask for help at the front desk.

THERE IS ALSO A NOTE FOR THE PAGES.

As of today start to file the “Mystery” labeled paperbacks in with the regular Hard Cover Adult Fiction.

SEPTEMBER IS LIBRARY CARD SIGN UP MONTH

We usually do a partnership with local businesses in September to promote Library Card sign up. In case anyone should ask....due to lack of participation there will not be a partnership, although we will still promote signing up for a library card in September.

Registration!

Registration will begin at 9am on September 13th! We'll have computers set up for patrons who come to the library to register. Of course, please remind patrons that they can register online too!

Bookmobile: Labor Day reschedule

The bookmobile will be servicing regularly scheduled senior stops on Tuesday, September 7 as the library is closed Monday, September 6th in observance of Labor Day.

CHANGE TO NOTE AT CIRC

The procedure for receiving Bookmobile items has been slightly change. The note has been attached to the bag that is at Circ. for the Bookmobile items.

DISCHARGE the items, BUT DON'T put the INTRANSIT SLIP with them.

New Bookmobile Schedule: Start Sept 1, 2010

The bookmobile schedule has been tweaked for 2010-2011. New brown and green printed schedules have been distributed in the Library for patron and staff use. Please be advised that Saturday stops have been eliminated. Stops have been scheduled on alternating Thursday evenings.

The bookmobile will also be visting Sandbox Preschool beginning August 31 on a regular monthly basis. The bookmobile will resume regular visits to LaPetite Academy, Bobbie Noonan, Nazarene Preschool and Welcome Place Preschool. Through this service to 5 area preschools, the Library will reach an audience of nearly 400 children.

VIP service: If you hear of anyone that is at home due to illness, injury or some other mitigating circumstance, please let them know that the library offers free home delivery through the VIP program.

Thank you for your time.

FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY

Non-Homer Library Patrons may pay the "Friends" fee so they will be able to attend the early showing of the BOOK SALE on Thursday Night 5:00-8:30 p.m.

We have special cards that can be used.
Patti is making up an example.
The person will fill out the same "Friends" Form too.

Assessments

The Assessments info is located in the AS file cabinet (which holds the printer). Pull open the top drawer and look to the right.

Thanks!

Used Book Sale

I'd like to send out an early thank you to everyone regarding the Used Book Sale. I've seen so many staff members enthusiastically participate in this year’s preparation. Many of you have taken the time to greet and thank those who donated books, helped put the books in the room, and have really taken an interest in the book sale by providing great suggestions and input. I hope the sale is a success and that we’re able to raise at least the same amount of money we have in the past. Even if we don’t, it’s been great to see so many staff members come together on this library project. Thanks again!

INTERFILING MYSTERY AND WESTERNS INTO REGULAR ADULT FICTION.

When a Mystery or Western Paperback book is returned, please give them to CW.
The location is being changed and they will be interfiled in the Regular Adult Fiction.

When the Science Fiction books are done everyone will be notified.

STAFF PICNIC

We will be having our annual end-of-summer staff picnic on Tuesday, August 24th @ noon. Sign-up sheets are in the kitchen on the "response board".

CHALLENGE PARK TICKETS

Jody O was the winner of the tickets.

Overdrive Audiobooks and ebooks

Our Omni Libraries Overdrive subscription has started. Patrons can now start downloading audiobooks and ebooks from their home computers. A brief tutorial and FAQ are available on the Omni Library homepage, www.omnilibraries.org. Please note that various software downloads are required and that items can only be checked out to one person at a time.

The link from our library page is at http://homerlibrary.org/findit.asp.

USED BOOK SALE

The complete schedule is posted at the time clock. If you can not work a time slot that you have been assigned, please try to switch with someone or see Alex or your manager to make a change.

New Service - Audiobooks and Ebooks

We're planning on starting a new downloadable book (audio and e-books) on August 2nd. You can preview the service and the items currently existing in the collection at
http://www.omnilibraries.org

SUMMER READING PRIZES

Names have been pulled and winners are currently being called. The prizes remain on the shelves in the Youth Department. There is a Winner's List posted near the cash register. Some prizes are highlighted in yellow. This means that there is a prize that needs to be added to the basket (if the basket included a gift card, the basket only contains a copy of the gift card).
PLEASE TAKE A PICTURE OF THE WINNERS WITH THEIR BASKET!
Also, check the name off when they pick up their prizes.
THANK YOU!

Bookmobile: Summer Reading Prizes

To all:

The Bookmobile's Summer Reading winners have been contacted. The prizes are on the shelves over the bookmobile dept. desk. Tags are on each prize with the winner's name. Some families have multiple winners...the prizes should be clipped together for your convenience.

Many prizes are in small cellophane gift bags or envelopes.

Thanks for helping pass out the prizes.

MOVED COLLECTION

The Western books have been interfiled with the regular fiction.

MOVED: TYPEWRITER

Yes, we still have a typewriter.
It has been moved into the computer room.

ShoutBomb

We are offering a new text messaging service to the patrons called ShoutBomb. Patrons can receive text messages through their cell phones notifying them of holds that are available, items that are due soon, overdues and fines. They can also renew items and check to see if we own something by texting in the item's ISBN. The library doesn't charge for this service however the patron's mobile plan's regular text-messaging rates will apply.

This service is available now so please let the patrons know. Brochures are available at the circ and help desks explaining the service and how it works.

Please ask me if you have any questions.

USED BOOK SALE

There are sign up sheets above the time clock for set-up, sale and clean-up of the Used Book Sale. Please write your name in your desired time slot. Everyone is required to help out. If you have any questions, please see Alex or your department manager.

FYI: We've put a call out for the following

1. a teen band for teen open house
2. authors for Author Fair

Please direct all questions/comments to Alex. Thanks in advance

Deep Condolences to Sue Dierkes Family

Our thoughts and prayers go to Sue Dierkes and family on the loss of their son-in-law Jonathan Michael Runion, who died this past weekend in an automobile accident. Sue's daughter Kristen survived with minor injuries. We extend our deepest sympathies to Kristen on the loss of her husband of one year.

Please keep the Dierkes family in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.

CHAMPPS RAFFLE

The winners are...
MaryEllen, Jody O, Diana, Lizzie, Dawn, Dianne, Sheree, Pat, Heather, Shannon, Kathy and Cindy.
FYI: Gift cards are for Champps Restaurant in Orland Park on 161st and LaGrange Rd.

NEW DVD'S

We are now marking DVD's as NEW the same way we do all the other ADULT items.
So, there will be Red tape on the "spine" and they should be put on the DVD shelf BEFORE all the other collections. (I will work on getting a small sign for the shelf too.)

Due Date July 5

All items that were due on July 5 are now due July 6.

STAFF RAFFLE

Another staff raffle...yeah! This time it is for Champs MYSTERY gift cards. The MYSTERY gift cards have a value anywhere from $3 - $30. You won't know until you use it! If you're interested, put your name in the can by the coffeemaker. Good luck!

July 5

We will be closed on July 5 for Independence Day! I'm working with PALS to see if we can switch the items due on the 5th to the 6th. I will keep you informed of the answer.

Please have a wonderful and safe holiday!

Friends of the Library

THE FRIEND’S FOLDER IS STANDING UP BEHIND THE CASH REGISTER.

Existing FRIEND members need to renew and pay the yearly fee then they get a NEW GREEN FRIEND STICKER extending their membership through 2011. There is a place on their sticker to put the current MONTH.

The forms are in there in the folder too. If they are NEW or there is a change in their membership they need to fill out a new form.

Put a HOMER TOWNSHIP FRIEND sticker on their card (don't cover the barcode)

Yellow 2010 stickers are good till the month noted on it. (IF no month is noted, then their membership will need to be renewed in December 2010.

FRIEND MONEY DOES NOT GO IN THE CASH REGISTER—GIVE IT TO SARA.

FRIENDS get one (1) raffle ticket for every visit; have them put their name and phone number on it and drop it in the can marked "friends" located at the circ desk.

(They will NOT receive the library bucks or free copies. FYI: Friends memberships are ANNUAL.)

POLISH LANGUAGE BOOKS

The Polish books have been moved to the short shelf across from the Circ desk on the side facing the new books.

Congratulations to Nicole and welcome to Finn Michael

Nicole and her husband, Mike, welcomed their third son on Sunday, June 20th. What a nice father's day gift. Mother and baby, Finn Michael, are doing well and will be coming home on Tuesday.

He was a whopping 7lb. 8 oz. and 19.5 inches.

Patti has posted a few photos above the time clock.

Best wishes to the newest member of our library family!

WEEKLY RAFFLE - SUMMER READING PROGRAM

Every week there will be winners chosen for the Taste of Homer Teen/Adult raffle. Prizes are certificates for local restaurants. I will be notifying the winners and the prize envelopes will be located in the "Pig drawer" (under DVD's).

JOLIET JACKHAMMER STAFF RAFFLE

The winners are:
Alex, Carol W, Cindy, Dianne, Donna, Patti and Dawn

JOLIET JACKHAMMER STAFF RAFFLE

The Joliet Jackhammers have offered additional tickets for staff again this year. If you are interested, please put your name in the green bucket on the staff workroom counter. There are (6) packs of 6 and (1) pack of 4 to give away. They are valid for a lawn seat for games any Monday thru Thursday. We will be picking a winner soon....good luck!

Summer Reading TASTE OF HOMER

There is a weekly raffle for Teens and Adults that is part of the summer reading club. Please empty the tickets from the Taste of Homer Raffle can every Saturday at closing. There is a can on Patti's desk that they can be put into. Thank you.

NEW F.O.I.A. FORMS

The new Freedom of Information Request forms are in the filing cabinet under the cash register. The old ones were in the same spot.

Lincolns for the Libraries!

Patrons donated $114 for the summer reading program!

LTHS books

We will not be bringing in copies of LTHS summer reading books for display.

Please encourage patrons to place holds on these items.

We do have a blue folder marked LTHS summer reading 2010 at the reference desk for students unsure of their reading requirements.

Ease Meal-Time Madness cancelled

The program has been cancelled due to low registration.

Bookmobile: National Children's Book Week Date Due Slip Winners

Four winners have been chosen. They have been contacted. The prizes are at JodyO's desk . They are in small, red polka dotted cello bags. Each bag has the winner's name on it.

Online registration-Bookmobile

A question has arisen concerning the Bookmobile online registration form:

there is a space entitled "STOP", please have patrons fill in "library". Hopefully, this question will be removed on future forms.

Thanks

ADVENTURE PASS

On behalf of the Arlington Heights Historical Museum. The Museum Adventure Passes should not be available to be checked out for the weekend of our House Walk on Sunday, June 13.
So if you could not check out Adventure Passes for the Arlington Heights Historical Museum from Friday, June 4 through Monday, June 14. Keeping in mind they are only good for Tours on Saturday and Sunday.

EVENT KEEPER

We are beginning a new way patrons can register for programs! It's called EventKeeper and it's wonderful! Patrons can register for the programs from their home or work computers. The old program book will be gone. The site will become live and visible to you and the patron on Tuesday. I will show each of you how this works so if someone calls, you can either walk them through it or register them at your desk/circ desk.

This is a fabulous service that we are offering to our patrons! EventKeeper is easy to use and the registration will take less than a minute from start to finish.

Thanks for your cooperation!

DVD's and HOLDS

All current DVD’s will be available for holds.

After today NEW DVD’s will be cataloged as NEW and will not be available for holds.

We will I.L.L. the DVD’s out in their current packages.

PLEASE check the condition of each DVD and note any possible problems. (We may need to talk about this a bit more.)

More information is sure to come. Let me know what you are seeing on the picklist. I am curious.

Thanks,
Jody

Grant this summer

FYI: We have been awarded a grant that will be implemented this summer. These programs are not on the brochure. More information to come ASAP.
Thanks!

Golden Opportunities

The 2010 Golden Opportunities coupon books are now 1/2 price at $13.
Thanks.
Sara

Bookmobile: My Favorite Book-bookmark contest

Please place all entries which are submitted in the manilla envelope on the cork board.

Thanks

Newsletter Summer 2010

The Newsletter is available online.


1.)go to homerlibrary.org
2.)at the top right, click "Read our newsletter"
3.)look for Summer 2010

USED Book Sale

Used Book Sale
Books - $1.00
Movies/Music - $1.00
Preview Sale for Friends of the Library members.
Thursday, August 12 5 pm -8:30 pm
Open to the public
Friday, August 13 9 am – 4:30 pm
Saturday, August 14 9 am – 3:30 pm
Monday, August 16 9 am – 3 pm
Everyone is invited to stop by the Homer Township Public Library’s 3rd Annual Book Sale! Our library teen groups, Energy: A Teen Leadership Academy, Teen Advisory Board, and Teen Interns, assist in the planning, organization, and running the book sale. Come support your library and local teens!
We will be collecting donations August 3-12 during library hours. If possible, we ask that you hold onto your donations until that time due to space issues. If for some reason, you need to donate the items before then, please contact Alex or Heather before delivering donations so that arrangements can be made. The library is unable to pick up donations. We will be accepting books, music, and movies.
We cannot accept magazines, Reader’s Digest Condensed, encyclopedias over 5 years old, or damaged items.
Leftover items will be donated to a local organization.

For patrons wanting to donate non-fiction, please ask the patron to use their judgement on whether the items are still current and relevant.

CHICK WINNERS

Winners of the Chick-It-Out contests are posted on the board near the incubator. Winners have been called and prizes are located on top of the CD case in the staff workroom. Thanks to everyone for their help the last few weeks. I think it has been a wonderful learning experience for all of us! And aren't those chicks cute?!

Safety Update Regarding Public Bathrooms

We have installed locking light switches in the public bathrooms. Staff will turn them to the lit position in the morning and the lights will remain on until closing.

This is an added safety feature for our many customers.

Bookmobile out of service

The bookmobile will be out of service from April 17-24 for maintenance work. Service will resume on April 26th as per the regular schedule.

We will be serving our senior patrons at Marian and Victorin Villages on Monday, April 19 via car.

We will serve Nazarene Preschool on Tuesday and Wednesday via car.

Calls will be made to bookmobile patrons to alert them and renew material.

CHICK IT OUT

The eggs arrive Tuesday (still waiting for a confirmation on the exact time). The incubator will be located on the Dummies display shelf. PLESE KEEP AN EYE ON THE INCUBATOR. It is important that no one removes the cover or bumps the incubator. Alex and I will be maintaining the eggs. However, if you are asked to assist, please be sure to WASH YOUR HANDS WITH SOAP AND WATER BEFORE AND AFTER HANDLING THE EGGS...DO NOT USE HAND SANITIZER (hand sanitizer may be harmful to the eggs). Directly below the incubator a (secured) laptop will be set up running the live web-cam. We are hoping that patrons will view the eggs from there and not disturb the incubator. We will also try to get a chick-related power point running on a computer in the Youth Services area across from Diana's desk. AGAIN, TO ENSURE THE SAFETY OF THE UNBORN CHICKS, PLEASE KEEP AN EYE ON THE INCUBATOR. Thank you for your cooperation. We are hopeful for a successful incubation!

P.S. Completed coloring forms can be placed in the purple tub located on the DVD cabinet in the staff workroom.

CHICK COLORING CONTEST

The Chick coloring contest has begun. Forms are available on the PR tower (across from Circulation). A master form is posted in the staff workroom if additional copies are needed. Rules are explained in the Chick-It-Out brochures.

Chick Out Your Clothes!

In honor of special guests... the chicks... Please wear either black, white or yellow clothes. Everyone will get a yellow feather lei to complete your wardrobe! Let's make our chicks welcome and enjoy the fun!!!!

This all takes place on Tuesday, April 20!!!

Questions? ask me.

CHICK RAFFLE

There is a plump little chick sitting on top of the Dummies display. This is a raffle for the Chick program. Entry forms and a bucket are located next to the chick. Rules are one entry per person and the winner will be drawn after May 5th. The master entry form is in the workroom in case we run out. FYI: The chick is attached to a book end which is taped to the shelf so that it doesn't "walk away."

Judy Ward to Retire

We extend our best wishes to circulation staff member Judy Ward, who will retire soon. A long-time employee, Judy has provided 17 years (!) of dedicated service at the Homer Township Public Library. We appreciate these many years of valued work. Judy's last day at the library will be Friday, May 21st.

We wish Judy the very best in her future endeavors and hope she will plan to visit us often!

DUMMIES DISPLAY

There is a new display located across from Circulation. Tax forms have been moved to the table next to the AS Help Desk. If anyone comes across a "For Dummies" book, please put it out on the display.

Museum Adventure Pass Continued!

After much discussion, the Museum Passes will be handled mainly at the circ desk. The reason for this.... if two staff members are printing passes for the same museum at the same time, some patron will be very angry at being told we HAVE the pass only to be given to another patron. Having it at the circ desk should make YOUR life easier when dealing with patrons.

If the circ desk gets very busy, then the Help Desk or Youth Services Desk will jump in to help.

Thanks.
Sara

Brookfield Zoo Pass

The old Brookfield Zoo Passes are not available to be checked-out by patrons. Please tell the patrons that the passes have expired. Explain that we are participating in the Museum Adventure Pass which includes Brookfield Zoo. This new service, which begins April 1st offers free admissions or discounts to 19 different museums throughout the Chicago suburbs.

Patrons can see the brochure or website at http://www.museumadventure.org/.

Patrons can start checking out the passes which will be good for seven (7) days for a one (1) time use beginning April 1st.

Jody S and I will be showing each one of you personally how the site works and answer any questions you have.

Zoo Pass

The current Brookfield Zoo Pass will no longer be available to the patrons beginning March 31. These passes are being replaced with the Macy's Museum Adventure Pass which will be available to patrons on April 1st. Please read the brochure which is at the circ desk before this date. Sheree is offering the old Brookfield Zoo pass to in-house staff during the month of April.

Volunteer Request

While we are updating the volunteer sheets, please enter the volunteer request info into the Excel sheet located in the S:/ drive, in the Volunteer folder.

Please remind volunteers that we can not guarantee hours.

CHICK IT OUT

There is a new program “CHICK-IT-OUT” beginning Sunday, March 14th. The highlight of the program will be April 20th when we receive 24 eggs to be hatched right here at the library!
Please take a moment to review the CHICK-IT-OUT brochure which will be placed out at Circ on Sunday.
The Video/Photo contest is the only event that begins on the 14th. This contest is open to all ages. However, there are waivers that are required for participation in this contest. These are located on the PR tower (across from Circ).
Information regarding additional programs will be presented at the Tuesday staff meeting.
In the meantime, Alex should be able to answer any questions you might have on Sunday.

Date Change for ACT Essay Writing

The instructor had to change the ACT Essay Writing date to March 30th @ 7 pm. (Original date - March 24th).

GENEALOGY BOOKS

This collection will now be in the regular Adult Non-Fiction.
The genealogy stickers will not be removed so they should just be found by their call numbers.

EASTER COLORING CONTEST

We are the pick-up/drop-off for BOTH the Marian Village and Victorian Village coloring contest. Master copies are on the staffroom coffee cabinet. An envelope is near the Circulation typewriter for entries received. Entry deadline is Wednesday, March 24th. Both egg hunts will be held on Saturday, March 27th. Victorian Village Egg Hunt is from 9 - 11 a.m. Marian Village Egg Hunt starts at 10 a.m.

LIBRARY LOVER'S MONTH RAFFLE

Therese Dryfhout is the winner of the Library Lover's Raffle. She has been notified. There is an envelope with her Woodbine Gift Certificate located in the drawer under the DVD's.

Help Wanted for Bookmobile

The Homer Township Public Library is seeking a friendly and enthusiastic individual with a strong customer service ethic to work with our library bookmobile staff assisting with the day-to-day operation of Bookmobile services.

Responsibilities: Perform a variety of duties on the bookmobile, including checking-in and checking-out of materials, registering new customers, shelving materials, and other duties as requested to support bookmobile operations. Will assist in the development and presentation of bookmobile programming. This is a non-IMRF, temporary position that may become permanent.

Requirements: Friendly, energetic, detail oriented person with excellent communication skills and a positive customer service ethic; must enjoy working with a diverse population that includes children, teens, adults, senior citizens, and persons with disabilities. High School Diploma, driver’s license, and some computer skills required. Previous library and presentation experience a plus.

· Must have the stamina to climb steps, and the ability to stand for extended periods of time, and be able to walk, sit, reach, bend and stoop.
· May be required to lift book crates weighing approximately fifty (50) pounds and/or push book carts weighing approximately one hundred (100) pounds.

Hours/Salary: Approximately 15+ hours per week, including evenings and alternating Saturdays. Hourly salary range from $9. Applications accepted until position is filled.
Please fill out an application at the Homer Township Public Library, 14320 West 151 Street, Homer Glen, IL 60491 or email resumes to Jody Olivieri, Bookmobile Manager @ jolivieri@homerlibrary.org EOE

NOT taking Stuffed Animals

The box that was dropped off for stuffed animal donations was not approved and will be picked up by the person who left it.

DVD COLLECTION

We allow vacation loans for all of our items up to 3 extra week. (Like an automatic renewal.)
EXCEPTIONS: New Books and DVDs
But we can allow one extra week (2 total) for the DVDs if the patron will be out of town.

AND while I am on the subject of DVDs...Verify the condition of the DVD in front of the patron at check out. Even make a comment in front of the patron. We have had a few that "were found to be broken when they got home".

Fiddyment Creek Document

Our copy is at the Adult Services desk.
Residents will be able to view and provide feedback on possible routes for the Fiddyment Creek sewer extension project, as the Village plans to showcase four alignment alternatives at an open house later this month.Pushed back a week from its original date, the open house will now take place on Wednesday, March 31, from 5- 7 p.m. in the Village Council Chambers, 14917 S. Founders Crossing in Homer Glen.
At the open house, residents will be able to view exhibit boards with maps and ask questions to representatives from the Village and Forest Preserve District of Will County, which owns the property on which the extended sewer line will be built.A document with reports on the sewer alignments will also be available to the public in the Village Council Chambers, at the Homer Township Public Library, and at the administration building of the Forest Preserve District of Will County, located at 17540 W. Laraway Road, Joliet.

LETTERS TO THE TROOPS

I will be dropping off the "Letters to the Troops" to the VFW Post in Lockport later this week. They have offered to make the necessary arrangements to get them to our troops in Afghanistan.
The slot box is covered but I am expecting additional letters from Diane (Schilling School). She may be bringing them in Tuesday after 4. Please accept them and put them on my desk. Thank you.

TOASTER OVEN

Cindy is the recipient of the toaster oven.

Bookmobile "If You Give a Pig a Pancake" Drawing

Prizes for this drawing are at the Bookmobile desk.
Name tags are on the prizes which consist of a webkinz pig and book.
Winners have been phoned.
Thank you!

TOASTER OVEN

We recently purchased a new toaster oven for the kitchen. The old one still works and is available to whoever wants it. If you are interested put your name in the can near the coffeemaker NO LATER THAN TUESDAY, MARCH 2nd. If there is more than one name, we will pull a name raffle-style.

Census Testing

The US Census has canceled the last testing date on Friday, Feb. 26th. If anyone is looking to take the test they can call the US Census at 815-272-2660. Lockport Library will be hosting the test week of 2/22 though 2/26.

interlibrary loans

Please note that interlibrary loans from outside of system are for Homer Library patrons only.

Interlibrary loans can only be placed at a patron's home library.

Please check that a patron is a Homer Township resident before offering an outside interlibrary loan request.

Energy Info

The deadline for Energy applications was Tuesday, February 16th. However, I don't want to turn anyone away, so we do have some applications behind the Help Desk in case anyone is still interested in it (but I've taken down the applications from around the library). I sent out an email & an actual letter to the teens (43 of them! woo!) that gives them more information on the programs & what they should expect. If anyone has other questions, please refer them to Alex or I. Thanks!

Winner

Sydeny won the Valentine's Day prize ( 2books and candy bars).

The prize is locate between the dvds and the printer in the back room.
Thanks!

Crazy about Cakes -New Date

Tuesday, March 16th @ 7 pm

LINCOLNS FOR YOUR LIBRARY

Starting Friday, February 12th (Lincoln's birthday) we will be collecting pennies from patrons (and/or staff) to help support the summer reading program. Donation jars will be set at the Help Desk, Circulation and in the Meeting Room. We will start with one jar and will add more as they become available. We are using the pretzel jars on the staff counter so get munching!

Cancelled program

Tonight's (2/7) program, Crazy About Cakes, has been cancelled due to weather and potentially hazardous driving conditions for our presenter.

We will reschedule and will have the new date by the end of this week.

Patrons have been called but there were 3 patrons that I have not been able to get a hold of.

PATRON STATION UPDATE

The table between the copiers has been set up with a few items the patrons ask for occasionally.

There is a pair of scissors and a stapler chained to the table.
I also put a note holder, pencils and paper clips too.

Check the supplies please. But don't put too many paper clips out at one time.
Tape will not be put out there so they will still have to ask you for it.

There is a pencil sharpener out there too!

TAX Links

The Tax links are available on the left-hand side of the homepage.
Once the Energy Application Deadline is reached, I'll move the tax links to the center as well as keeping the links on the left-hand side of the page.

Please remind those calling about tax forms that we do have them available at the library and that we are happy to print copies for their usage. Please note that there is a charge for printing forms that are not available on paper within the library.

LIBRARY LOVER'S MONTH RAFFLE

During the month of February we will be holding a raffle for a chance to win a gift certificate to Woodbine. Raffle tickets are at Circulation. One entry per person per day. Winner notified after Feb. 28th.

NO MORE CALLING FOR HOLDS

Homer Township Library will begin using SVA for Available Hold Notices beginning Feb. 1, 2010.

Staff will not make calls on Saturday, January 30th. SVA will begin making calls for HDBB that Monday.

SVA is an automated telephone system that PALS uses for toll free call out notices for holds available for Pick UP.
Read over the attached document that was emailed in a memo.
Thanks

Super Bowl Weekend

Super Bowl weekend is Feb 5 - 7 and to show our support for one of the national pastimes, we can wear jeans and a sport/team shirt.

BOOKS ON CASSETTES

The last of the Audio Books on Cassette have been removed from the back wall.
When any more Books on Cassette are returned, check them in and bring them to Carol W.
Thanks

Precinct Finder

http://www.thewillcountyclerk.com/connect/site/publicpages/PrecinctFinder.jsp

The above link will allow you to find where someone votes by their address. Do not put full street names in only use two or three letters since the program can't recognize the full street name.

The primary election is Feb. 2nd with the general election being Nov. 2.

Today is the first day of Early Voting and January 28th is the last day.

Any questions, please ask me.

Thanks,
Sara

LETTERS TO THE TROOPS

The new "red-roofed house" (near the front doors of the library) will serve as our collection box for letters to the troops. Blank letter forms are on the "house" and the master forms are in the workroom taped to the cabinet. Instructions promoting this program have been placed throughout the library. Everyone and anyone is welcome to write a letter (in pen) and deposit it into the house. The library will mail all letters sometime next month. Show your support and write a letter to our troops!

VOTERS REGISTRATION

Registration is closed until after the General Primary on February 2nd.

Registration will be open 2 days after the election on February 4th.

Fundraisers

In February, we will be holding 3 fundraisers...all of which are noted on the last page of the new Winter Newsletter. Please distribute vouchers/fliers to patrons at check out as well as during programs.

Chili's is valid every Friday in February and it requires a voucher.
Mimi's is for Monday, Feb 8th from 4 - 8 pm only and requires a voucher.
Chesdan's is for Monday, Feb 15th (which is a holiday for the library and schools) and only requires that you show your library card. Treat yourself to pizza on your day off and help the library!

Masters for the vouchers are posted on the cabinet in the workroom next to the copier. Additional vouchers will also be available on the website.

Computer Classes

All Computer Class registration will take place on Jan. 19th along with all other Adult programs.

This includes the INTRO to Computers classes (that previously required registration the Monday of). To clarify, INTRO to Computers registration will take place on Jan 19th.

Newsletter

The newsletter is available ONLINE at http://www.homerlibrary.org/newsletters/WinterSpring2010.pdf.

If people ask for the Mimi's voucher please let them know that they will be available soon. They can leave their name, phone number, email, etc...if they would like to be contacted once the vouchers are available.

Tax forms

We have received SOME of the tax forms for 2009. They are displayed on top of the shelving range that contains the childrens books for sale.

Thanks Bonnie for organizing everything!