With spring upon us, we in the SPC libraries find renewal within the walls of the O’Toole Library. During intersession, a considerable amount of planning and team effort was expended to remake the first floor entry space inside the library. We’ve expanded the Pavo Perk coffee bar seating area, re-orientated our reference service desk, and expanded space to chat and relax inside the library.
We also significantly changed the location and space for computer access. For those students and faculty returning to the campus, you’ll find all of the computers and printers have been moved and consolidated. I invite everyone to come in and let us show you what we’ve been cooking while you’ve been away. It should be noted that none of these positive changes would have happened without partnerships, so I am thankful to facilities and ITS and blessed to have the wonderful O’Toole and ECC library staff who support these initiatives.
The goal is to open up additional floor space inside the main floor of the O’Toole library for research, collaboration and scholar services. Making this floor the nexus for librarian, information and circulation services support.
The reorientation of the space extends the view into our group study rooms, so if you have a group of four or more, you’ll be able to see if a room is available and then reserve it at the circulation desk. We hope to expand this service in the coming semesters in a cost efficient manner, to better meet your group study needs.
Looking back now and upon reflection, the use of the library as a 24-hour space to study for finals in the fall semester was very much appreciated by the students and faculty. In fact, all of the upcoming graduating classes provided refreshments during the late hours, truly turning an administrative idea into a holistic team and campus effort.
The library’s draft 2010-2015 strategic plan is in its third phase. With the completion of the final part, the tactical aspects of the plan will be forthcoming and we will share the document with the campus community and administration. We’ll be looking for input and improvements prior to accepting the plan as our guiding light for future initiatives.
All of us in the libraries wish you a successful and prosperous spring term.
Cordially,
David I. Orenstein, MLS, MS, Ph.D.
Executive Director of Library and Information Services
Saint Peter’s College
NJ Proposed Budget: Planned Cuts to Library Services
April 9th, 2010The Governor has announced $721,000 in reductions to library programs in New Jersey’s FY10 budget.
The reductions are in the following areas: NJ Library Network Aid- $373,000; New Jersey Knowledge Initiative- $231,000; and Virtual Library Aid -$117,000. With previous budget cuts, library programs have been reduced by over 19% in the state budget this fiscal year.
How might these reductions affect library services/ operations at Saint Peter’s College?
Many of us here at SPC have become aware of the proposed cuts to TAG, EOF, and direct aid to independent colleges. The proposed cuts to library services are just another area—albeit a small one—where this budget would chip away at our collective ability to successfully educate, retain, and recruit students.
Looking beyond SPC, the effect this budget will have on public libraries is staggering. The cuts total approximately 50 percent of their state aid and 74 percent of funding for services. This comes at a time when NJ libraries are being used more than ever.
What can you do?
Visit I Love NJ Libraries to learn more about the proposed cuts and become a Library Champion.
Join the Facebook group Save NJ Libraries.
Call or send a message to your State Senator and Assembly representatives opposing the elimination of funding for library programs.
For help composing your e-mail or letter got to: http://capwiz.com/ala/nj/issues/alert/?alertid=14842591&PROCESS=Take+Action
Daisy DeCoster
Assistant Librarian, Reference
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