April 14, 2017 (Deb)
Claim returned - Asita reported she happened across two of our items with a "claim returned" status inserted by other libraries. The status was changed years ago. She proposed running a "claim returned" list annually as a way to find any changes in case another library inserts the note and forgets to notify us. All agreed.
Library hours - The minimum wage increase means the library loses 28 work study hours at the current 14 student level. Deb asked what everyone thought of a reduction in work study library hours to help offset the loss. She has removed 8-10am, Mon-Fri from the hours available calendar. Sofia suggested removing hours from 1:30-4pm as well. This will push people to work in the evenings and weekends when the coverage is more essential. In addition, we discussed changing the hours the library is opened. Sofia preferred keeping the current hours for the next year, see how things go.
New web page - Sofia is very excited about the development of the library's new web page. Along with some clever design layout and features, the new page will make us ADA compliant. Midsummer is the projected completion date. Each department will now be able to (and expected to) edit their area's information and help keep the pages current. (Sneak preview go to https://www.umfk.edu/library2/)
Floating collection and lost items - "Who is responsible for replacement of lost items" was a topic of discussion at the circ heads meeting in March. With concerns about Blake not having a security system and taking a one-library view, Sofia proposed that any items missing at a location library be listed as 'lost' in the record and forgo the replacement fee due the owning library. The circ group agreed unanimously. Les isn't in full agreement and took the traditional view of a borrowing library reimburses the owning library when items are lost. Les does not see Orono agreeing with the non-replacement strategy. She would not hold fast to the idea if it meant other libraries were reluctant to join in the float.
Paging slips - Deb passed around a copy of the proposed new URSUS paging slip. The recommendation of the circ subcommittee is a brief period of internal testing then proceeding with linking both URSUS and INN-reach templates at the same time as it is a labor intensive activity for ME InfoNet. The new format should begin sometime in May.
Site/center bookstrap - Deb showed a copy of the new OCLS bookstrap to be used when items are sent to a site or center. It was distributed by OCLS staff in response to miss-delivered or miss-processed items going to the sites and centers.
Markers - For smart and/white board marker replacements, Les recommended we purchase the “high-odor dry-erase markers” as they are easier to clean off the smart board.
Student earnings - Discrepancies in the Earnings Report for work studies is causing some confusion. Deb is to continue to monitor and try not to exceed allotments.
Summon rumor - Sofia mentioned there is a rumor the libraries are moving away from Summon. Les will follow up on it.
Focus on faculty - Dave Hobbins is the featured faculty member in Sofia's now available Focus on Faculty presentation. She will send it to the UMFK community.
Extended hours/summer hours - Sofia is working with nursing faculty regarding library summer hours. Les will talk to faculty to see which Sunday evening at the end of the spring semester is best for us to offer extended hours.
Beverage and snacks during break week – Staff can hand out free beverage (coffee or water) coupons to students during last two weeks of the semester. Staff can also hand out coupons for those who quietly use the library in the quiet and silent zones during the end of the semester; a reward for not disturbing others in the library. Les will pick up water bottles and packaged snacks like crackers and granola bars to give away during this time.
Recent patron - Sofia mentioned a particular patron who has been calling in about anxiety. Sofia has asked staff to take a message to give to reference.
Pet Therapy - As a follow up to Asita's suggestion of providing a stress reduction (pet therapy) dog for students during exam week, Leslie said there are currently no certified dogs in the area. A possible contender for the job is working on his “good citizen certificate,” but he most likely will not be quite ready for this finals season.
Sudden resignation of the UMA president is a surprise.