What would you like to know about the library? Comment here or fill out a yellow slip the next time you're in the building. Here's another topic library users have on their minds...The library isn't just about books. Sure, we have an amazing selection of titles to read, but you can find so much more here including music CDs, DVDs, and audio books. These non-paper materials take a different approach to maintenance, and you asked us how we care for our discs.
There's nothing more frustrating than getting a CD or DVD home and discovering it doesn't play well because of a scratch. If a CD or DVD looks well-loved and has a scratch or 2, we temporarily take it out of circulation for care. First, we check it out to a "patron" called repair. That way, you don't expect to find it on the shelf. Then, we send it downstairs to our technical services area where it is administered to, using our new polishing machine. The machine, which we purchased last month, works on CDs and DVDs alike.
How do we decide which discs to polish? We rely partly on you to tell us if one isn't working properly. We also plan to start a rotation in the coming months, in which we will check the discs on the shelves and identify those that need a good polishing up. This will not only keep our collection in the best condition it can be, but will ensure you get a quality item when you check something out at the library.
Let us know what's on your mind! Ask a question, we'll answer it.
6 comments:
Can patrons make requests online for material we would like the public library to consider purchasing? Is there a process for this in the library? Thanks!
Amy, I'm so glad you asked about making suggestions for library purchases. We love to hear what interests you. Please feel free to drop us an email at mslaplib@missoula.lib.mt.us and let us know what titles you would like. OR, if you're in the building, you can stop at any service desk and fill out a request card. If you include your name and account number, our selectors can make sure you're put on hold to be the first to read the title when it arrives. We can't promise to purchase everything, but we try our best. And, if for any reason we can't purchase it, we can help you borrow it from another library.
Can I still participate in winter reading club even though I missed the meeting this morning?
ABSOLUTELY! The Winter Reading Club is an ongoing event. It started Jan. 15, but it goes through March 15 and you can enter anytime. Just stop at the reference desk the next time you're in the main building, our Seeley Lake or Frenchtown branches, and grab a review form. And have fun reading!
Ok, I have one more question! Is there a way to see where I am on the hold list? I have had a hold on something for months. I know it is a popular title, so I am a little curious...
While you can't check in the public interface, a staff person can check where you are on a hold list. Unfortunately, it doesn't estimate wait time - you would have to factor how many libraries own the title, and how many people bring it in on time, etc. All it will provide is a general ballpark. Feel free to ask at a service desk the next time you're in, or give us a call at 721-2665.
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