thursday chuckles

Recently on a library e-mail list, a librarian from Fayetteville asked for submissions of patron one-liners.  This sparked a flurry of funny stories, which are all compiled here on the Best of PubLib blog.

budget concerns

Budget Message by Gary Page to BOC:

Without a better economy, the tax base and sales taxes will lag and force the Board to consider raising property taxes in order to balance the budget in 2014-15.

The alternative is to begin cutting public services. Those services include reduced operating hours at Dan Nicholas Park, reduced hours or closure of some branch libraries, and eliminating some services offered by the Animal Control Program. Nonprofit organizations that receive County appropriations could be subject to the biggest funding cuts.

The Board will have to consider prioritizing services to ensure adequate funding for welfare programs, the Sheriff’s Office, Jail, Emergency Services and Schools. Should the economy remain stagnant through the next year’s budget process, I would not be surprised to see the County Manager be forced to recommend a three cent property tax rate increase from 62.25 cents to 65.25 cents per $100 of valuation. A three cent increase would generate new revenue in excess of $3 million and provide the Board options for balancing budgets in the future.

internet explorer webmail issue

Recently the Literacy Council's computers updated to Internet Explorer 10.  Apparently there's a compatibility issue with IE 10 and Microsoft Webmail.  As far as I know, we are all still using Internet Explorer 8, but I'd like to share the workaround in case you find that your webmail starts giving you long coded messages and refuses to load.

1.  Try a different browser like Firefox (Start > Programs > Mozilla Firefox)

OR

1.  While your webmail log in screen is up in Internet Explorer, hit the F12 key.
2.  Click on the "Browser Mode" menu at the top of the window that pops up.
3.  Select an earlier version like "Internet Explorer 7".

from the tap 05-28-13

new language learning tool

Check out the newest database at RPL, available under "Online Tools" or "Find it Online" on the library's homepage.  Read more about this new resource here.

slideshow: photowalk @ HQ

stinky stuff

From Gretchen --

Any materials coming in that have accumulated an unpleasant smell – smoke, pet odor, etc. can be checked out to Gretchen's program card or to Tech Services and sent to Gretchen to be placed in the “de-smelling” chamber.

from the tap 05-20-13

photowalk at HQ on saturday

security rules

From Jeff --

In the interest of security and order within the library facilities and on the library grounds, I have instituted the following rules.

1. No hoods can be worn in library facilities.  On shirts with hoodies, the hood must be down within the library.
2. No gang colors are allowed.  These include bandanas of any sort.
3. Motorized vehicles must be parked in a parking space not in the bike parking, on sidewalks or under trees.

Please remember it is all the staff’s responsibility to help enforce library rules.

slideshow: photowalk @ south

photowalk at south tonight

from the tap 05-13-13

biometric screening reminder

Full-time benefited staff...

Don't forget your biometric screening for the Rowan County Government Wellness Program is coming up.

Please arrive on time and remember to fast for your bloodwork (nothing to eat 12 hours before your appointment).  You are allowed to drink water and black coffee ONLY.  Black coffee is defined as no cream, no sugar, no artificial sweeteners). If for any reason you are not able to fast, please indicate that at the time of your screening.

If you have any questions, feel free to call 704-414-5435.

slideshow: photowalk @ East

These photos are from our Photowalk at the East Branch. Don't forget we're having a Photowalk at South next Monday and at HQ next Saturday. Spread the word!

handling challenging situations

Ever feel like this?  Check out this free webinar called "Handling Challenging Situations: Part 1" next Tuesday, May 14th @ 3 pm.  You'll learn how to set limits with "problem patrons", how to articulate the importance of self-care following a difficult interaction, and more.  Click here to register for the live webinar, or here after May 14th to view the recording of the webinar.  Part 2 of this series will be offered on Tuesday, May 21st @ 3 pm.

from the tap 05-09-13

The latest happenings at RPL:

the blog hits 100

This marks the 100th post on the RPL Staff Blog! 
Thanks for following along, and stay tuned for 100 more!