Libraries are busier than ever TV spot

I thought I'd share this national TV spot about busy libraries nationwide. Check it out:

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/3032619/#28165432

Gates Grant Payment

This week we received a check for $5,850 from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. The money is to be used to improve public access to the Internet via technology upgrades. I estimate over the next two year that we will install 5 new public Internet PCs and printers, 3 in 2009 and 2 more in 2010. They will have 17" monitors for maximum visibility and be perfect for computer classes for beginners. The funding will also be used to expand and improve our network and install software that allows the staff to manage our public PCs efficiently.

In other news, I was inspired by 2 Friends holiday season fundraising efforts made possible by our talented, dedicated staff. The Reader's Roast coffee has been selling very well at $10 per pound. Also, the River Edge Pet Calendar has been a big hit with 85 sold already. I have to admire the efforts of the staff in selling these products at the Circulation Desk, as well as the creativity of Jennifer & Laura in developing them.

Interior Makeover Project

Thanksgiving Eve

Today I am thankful for the excellent work my staff has produced with our interior designer Suzan Globus over the last 6 months. We hired Globus Design Associates using funds raised during our "Usual Suspects" campaign. Suzan has a great deal of experience designing the interiors of public libraries and I think it shows. The design is nearing completion with many of the best ideas coming from our open-minded and imaginative staff members. I look forward to seeing the renderings of the final design and sharing it with our patrons.

Daragh

Better access to the Internet for all!

This week I received notice that the Library will soon receive a grant from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. The purpose of the grant is to improve public access to the Internet in public libraries. All told we will receive $8,500 over the next 2 years.

Three years ago we conducted a Community Use Survey in the Library. At that time we noted that our patrons wanted more PCs and better PCs in their library. I am particularly pleased with the grant for this reason.

In 2009 I hope to add 3 new PCs with large monitors for maximum visibility. For those who are not computer users we are organizing classes for beginners. All of this will be announced in the press and our web page.

Our gorgeous gardens

This week the Town News printed a letter I sent to the editor. In it I thanked the Beautification Committee and the DPW for the gorgeous gardens we have enjoyed over the last two years. Here at the Library we have heard many, many favorable comments from our patrons. My goal in writing this brief letter was to pass along the praise to those who deserve it most. Well done folks!

Daragh O'Connor