Apparently, the paving company has been hung up on another project. If they can finish up there this week, we will see them next week. We are next on their list, and DPW will share information as it comes in.
Category: Administration
Summer Sizzlers still needs help!
Our upcoming annual after-hours adult summer reading kickoff event, Summer Sizzlers, still needs a couple of helping hands.
This exclusive after-hours Friends-sponsored event is a huge draw for patrons and tons of fun. There are librarian book talks, mocktails, raffles and good vibes.
This year, it’s on Friday, June 12, 6-9 pm.
We need someone who can help check out books to patrons during the event and maybe snapping a few photos.
Paid time, extra hours for P/T staff, flex time for F/T people. People will work with their schedulers to make adjustments as needed.
Staff usually meet just ahead of the event to share a meal. Your talents would make this event a success.
If you’re interested, please let Sara or Olivia know ASAP so we can share more info.
Thank you!
Social RX
The library has joined the organization SocialRx, formerly known as Art Pharmacy, to help medical providers connect patients with programs and events at a variety of institutions, including libraries. We won’t know who is participating when they come into the library; this is all anonymous. I’ve attached a reference sheet along with the information document that Amy shared with Town Department Heads.
All that staff need to know is that this organization does the following:
WHAT IS SOCIALRX?
SocialRx (formerly Art Pharmacy) is a national social prescribing platform that connects healthcare providers with community organizations such as libraries, arts centers, and cultural institutions to support patients facing mental health challenges, social isolation, and loneliness.
The concept is called a “social prescription”: instead of (or alongside) clinical treatment, a doctor or care team refers a patient to community-based activities and programs. Research shows that participation in arts and culture programming can support mental health and reduce isolation.
Per Desiree: Non-pharmaceutical “prescriptions” are gaining attention, for example, the author of The Connection Cure was recently interviewed in the Friends Speaker Series
If patrons are interested in this service, they need to speak with their medical providers.
Sign up for Spring Outreach Events
The RPL participates in a wide range of community events throughout the year. They are a great way to get to know the citizens of Reading and the community. Please consider signing up to staff an event; dates are listed in this form. This is paid time. Please do not sign up for an event during your scheduled desk shift hours. If you have any questions, speak to Michelle or Cate.
Customer Service Survey
At the request of one of our Trustees, I’ve created a “how was your visit” survey that will be available at each service desk, at the self-check stations, on the catalog kiosks, and in the elevator.
If patrons would like to provide quick feedback, direct them to these surveys. If they want to provide more expansive feedback, direct them to the comment forms.
Please let me know if you have any questions.
Public Desk Talking and Politics
Hello all, there is a Town Election happening on April 7th. Here is the yearly reminder about what the public and staff can do regarding political campaigns.
Staff can answer factual questions about the candidates, but, per the Town of Reading personnel policy, should not engage in any political activity during working hours or on town property. Also, while on a service desk, keep discussions quick and quiet. Please read the full policy regarding town personnel political activity below, and the library policy on free speech and expressive conduct, specifically about candidates gathering signatures.
Communico Room Buffer
Hi all,
I’ve adjusted the Room Buffer for the Children’s Program Room and Community Room A and B. The end time buffer was removed. If you do need to add extra time for room setup, please do so manually.
Let me know if you notice any issues with this.
Thanks!
Spring Brochure
The Spring Brochure is here. The programmers have so many great events coming up. The brochure will be available on the website. On-demand printable copies will be available shortly. Special thanks to Rebecca for proofreading it for me!
Meeting Room Questions
Cheyenne has completed training on Communico and the meeting room AV system. They can help with questions about using the meeting rooms, set up and troubleshoot the AV equipment, and manage bookings.
Cheyenne works on Thursday evenings and will be the main AV support contact in the meeting rooms during those hours.
Social Media Posts-Logo
Hi all, The Town Social Media and Website working group met today and has requested that for any image/static social media posts we include the library logo. Also, if we want to something shared to the Town of Reading social media account, send Katie or Joshua the image and blurb and they will share directly to that account.
Let me know if you have any questions.