Hi All,
Just duplicating what I sent out in an email not all that long ago, just in case it hit some spam blockers. I am hopeful many of you can come because it will be a chance to hang out and have a happy occasion to celebrate and to take our minds off of our troubles for a short time, which I'm sure many of us could use right now. Again, I do apologize for not getting this out a lot sooner. Too many things going on in the community that proved to be too distracting. The food is being catered by BBQ This, a swell place that serves up some pretty mean BBQ. I highly recommend the place. Anyway, just let me know if you are coming so we have enough grub for y'all!!
What: It’s a Party!!
Why: Someone finally managed to lasso Mike (namely Kristine) and we are celebrating (mourning).
When: July 13, 2008 from 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Where: Prairie Oak Lodge, Squaw Creek Park (on Hwy 100)
BBQ will be served, so just bring yourself.
See you there.
Mr. And Mrs. Olsen
Note: There are 2 lodges in Squaw Creek Park, so follow the signs to the Prairie Oak Lodge
Please RSVP by July 4th by phone (319-393-2049 please leave a message!) or e-mail (Kleng96@aol.com). Thanks.
Monday, June 30, 2008
Sunday, June 29, 2008
Help from some Minnesota libraries
I thought I'd mention something nice that happened. A friend's daughter, who is a librarian with a library consortium in Rochestor, Minnesota, collected one to two hundred new adult fiction books from libraries in that area and brought them to her folks' home in Mt. Vernon, where they will remain until we have the time and space to handle them. Gerry
Saturday, June 28, 2008
Main Items Non-Holdable
I ran this through Tam and Christina yesterday before making the change:
As of today, Saturday the 28th, all Main items are non-holdable. This is to prevent the Sirsi system from using Main's flood-damaged items to fill holds.
If you have an undamaged Main item in hand, you should be able to manually place a hold with an override.
Leon
As of today, Saturday the 28th, all Main items are non-holdable. This is to prevent the Sirsi system from using Main's flood-damaged items to fill holds.
If you have an undamaged Main item in hand, you should be able to manually place a hold with an override.
Leon
Friday, June 27, 2008
The end of another week
It's amazing that it's only been a little more than 2 weeks since our lives all changed so dramatically. It's been a long couple of weeks.
There is light at the end of this tunnel. Those of you who have been working in odd & unusual places to help during the emergency period will see this kind of work taper off over the coming weeks. We'll be getting a temporary processing & cataloging area set up near the back of the Adult Library (formerly Famous Footwear.) This area--as well as the public Adult Library up front--will need to be staffed. I think you'll be seeing yourselves doing work much more like what you're accustomed to. The location may not be the greatest, but at least the work should feel more familiar.
We've been scouting out locations for a good temporary facility, & I think we're on to something. The Board meeting next Thurs at Marion, and we will probably have more information after that. If you can make the 4:00 meeting, please do.
Munters has bagged all personal items from the staff lockers according to locker number. If you wish to go claim anything (and they tell me that most items are probably ruined), you can go to the library and talk with Munters. You should wear your badge.
At this point, only managers who have had respirator training can be in the building. We will be removing office items from the 2nd floor next week.
Have a good weekend, everyone--
Tam
There is light at the end of this tunnel. Those of you who have been working in odd & unusual places to help during the emergency period will see this kind of work taper off over the coming weeks. We'll be getting a temporary processing & cataloging area set up near the back of the Adult Library (formerly Famous Footwear.) This area--as well as the public Adult Library up front--will need to be staffed. I think you'll be seeing yourselves doing work much more like what you're accustomed to. The location may not be the greatest, but at least the work should feel more familiar.
We've been scouting out locations for a good temporary facility, & I think we're on to something. The Board meeting next Thurs at Marion, and we will probably have more information after that. If you can make the 4:00 meeting, please do.
Munters has bagged all personal items from the staff lockers according to locker number. If you wish to go claim anything (and they tell me that most items are probably ruined), you can go to the library and talk with Munters. You should wear your badge.
At this point, only managers who have had respirator training can be in the building. We will be removing office items from the 2nd floor next week.
Have a good weekend, everyone--
Tam
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
YMCA Lockers
This is only marginally related to the CRPL, but a staff member at the YMCA called me and said people who have lockers at the Helen Nassif YMCA will be able to retrieve their items 4PM-6PM Thursday, June 26 and 10AM-2PM Friday, June 27. She said that anyone who wants to clear things out of their lockers should bring their own plastic bag.
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
Former staff member
I happened to see Amy Geiger at Target yesturday. She sends her best wishes to all-she is thinking of us and the library. She works for the CR school district-her office was in the Educational Resource Building on the SW side (I think 2nd Ave. & 5th St.). The first floor was totally flooded. Her office was on the second floor, so she was able to salvage just a few things. She has been working out of Jefferson High School cafeteria, along with many other school district employees. They are looking for alternative locations (since school starts in 7 weeks).
Monday, June 23, 2008
HPL Up
Forgot to mention earlier today:
I got Hiawatha up on Workflows this morning before opening. All their standalone transactions have been uploaded to the Unicorn server.
Leon
I got Hiawatha up on Workflows this morning before opening. All their standalone transactions have been uploaded to the Unicorn server.
Leon
Sunday, June 22, 2008
New Library Web Page
One more step in the process.
The new Cedar Rapids Public Library web site is up and running thanks to Len Struttmann.
http://crlibrary.info
Len is a local photographer, but is better known to some of us as the husband of Pat Struttmann, the Assistant Director of the Hiawatha Public Library. This is just one more example of the exceptional cooperation we have been seeing between all of the libraries of the Metro Library Network.
The web page will be expanded in the future include many other details.
Any questions or suggestions, please talk to Marie or Roger.
Sunday update
Hi all--
Sorry I've been absent of late. My goal of posting daily was probably overly-optimistic, but I'll get on here as much as possible.
Want to address Nancy's concerns: the Wed. call-ins were unclear. We mgrs were unclear on them, too. We don't want staff penalized because of confusion, so don't worry. Our goal with staffing is still to keep everybody working and paid.
I was in the library for a long time yesterday. NOBODY can be in there now without proper safety equipment--that means a full respirator (not just a paper mask), gloves, and if possible, hazmat suits. I will be there again today to help with removal of all the art works (Fire & Ice, Land Wave, etc.) So will Jeff & possibly Dee. Almost all our art--including Z collection--is being taken to Detroit for assessment & treatment. The bronze sculpture out front, stained glass window & children's mural will remain to be worked on on-site.
There's been a LOT of confusion over the status of materials inside the building. I realize I've contributed to that confusion, but all we can do is rely on the word of experts, and that sometimes changes day to day. Our goal originally was to get all non-soaked materials out & cleaned up for use. The hazardous conditions inside the building prevented that. Every day makes those hazards worse as mold grows, etc. We are just coming to realize the extent of the hazards in there. Toxins in both the water and the air are very serious. At this point, nothing downstairs is salvagable (btw, the antique maps on the wall have been salvaged; no word on condition.) The latest word is that the children's collection, although dry, will need to be de-contaminated before using. We are not to remove ANYTHING from the building until further notice, with the exception of the computer servers (special dispensation for those.)
The city has hired a team called Adjustors International to guide the financial side of our recovery efforts. This is a prudent step, because errors in documentaiton, etc., can keep us from being able to collect our FEMA money. You will hear a lot about AI in days to come. They are working with every city department.
One word of caution from them: if you are approached & asked questions by insurance people, FEMA people, etc--refer them to AI. We don't want to jeopardize our funding.
I have to put in a plug for the City here. Working more closely with the city now, I have been VERY impressed with how they are handling this crisis. They are actually ahead of the schedule normally expected in disasters in terms of cleanup, calling in help, etc. The library has been completely included in all their plans from the beginning. In fact, our building & the Paramount are at the top of the list, because of our valuable assets.
I hear nothing but GREAT reports about how our staff is working out with other departments during this confusion. I want to thank you all for your flexibility & hard work. Our employees are in great demand in other departments now--so clearly you're representing the library extremely well.
Organization is still difficult without working phones & computers. The number of minor (& major) snags we keep running into is staggering. I know you probably wonder what we're doing over there in Famous Footwear. Aside from trying to keep our own spirits up, we're working on stuff we never thought we'd work on--like how we're going to format all-staff schedules, how we can document staff hours and overtime for FEMA, what properties in town are for rent & might make a good temporary library, how to handle purchasing in the absence of all normal purchasing rules, whether we can impose upon Marion yet again to house one more thing for us, etc. Nothing we normally deal with is normal any more, either.
We all grieve for what we've lost. I hope we can all also try to look forward to what will be a better future for the library. I'm very proud to work with you all.
Tam
Sorry I've been absent of late. My goal of posting daily was probably overly-optimistic, but I'll get on here as much as possible.
Want to address Nancy's concerns: the Wed. call-ins were unclear. We mgrs were unclear on them, too. We don't want staff penalized because of confusion, so don't worry. Our goal with staffing is still to keep everybody working and paid.
I was in the library for a long time yesterday. NOBODY can be in there now without proper safety equipment--that means a full respirator (not just a paper mask), gloves, and if possible, hazmat suits. I will be there again today to help with removal of all the art works (Fire & Ice, Land Wave, etc.) So will Jeff & possibly Dee. Almost all our art--including Z collection--is being taken to Detroit for assessment & treatment. The bronze sculpture out front, stained glass window & children's mural will remain to be worked on on-site.
There's been a LOT of confusion over the status of materials inside the building. I realize I've contributed to that confusion, but all we can do is rely on the word of experts, and that sometimes changes day to day. Our goal originally was to get all non-soaked materials out & cleaned up for use. The hazardous conditions inside the building prevented that. Every day makes those hazards worse as mold grows, etc. We are just coming to realize the extent of the hazards in there. Toxins in both the water and the air are very serious. At this point, nothing downstairs is salvagable (btw, the antique maps on the wall have been salvaged; no word on condition.) The latest word is that the children's collection, although dry, will need to be de-contaminated before using. We are not to remove ANYTHING from the building until further notice, with the exception of the computer servers (special dispensation for those.)
The city has hired a team called Adjustors International to guide the financial side of our recovery efforts. This is a prudent step, because errors in documentaiton, etc., can keep us from being able to collect our FEMA money. You will hear a lot about AI in days to come. They are working with every city department.
One word of caution from them: if you are approached & asked questions by insurance people, FEMA people, etc--refer them to AI. We don't want to jeopardize our funding.
I have to put in a plug for the City here. Working more closely with the city now, I have been VERY impressed with how they are handling this crisis. They are actually ahead of the schedule normally expected in disasters in terms of cleanup, calling in help, etc. The library has been completely included in all their plans from the beginning. In fact, our building & the Paramount are at the top of the list, because of our valuable assets.
I hear nothing but GREAT reports about how our staff is working out with other departments during this confusion. I want to thank you all for your flexibility & hard work. Our employees are in great demand in other departments now--so clearly you're representing the library extremely well.
Organization is still difficult without working phones & computers. The number of minor (& major) snags we keep running into is staggering. I know you probably wonder what we're doing over there in Famous Footwear. Aside from trying to keep our own spirits up, we're working on stuff we never thought we'd work on--like how we're going to format all-staff schedules, how we can document staff hours and overtime for FEMA, what properties in town are for rent & might make a good temporary library, how to handle purchasing in the absence of all normal purchasing rules, whether we can impose upon Marion yet again to house one more thing for us, etc. Nothing we normally deal with is normal any more, either.
We all grieve for what we've lost. I hope we can all also try to look forward to what will be a better future for the library. I'm very proud to work with you all.
Tam
Saturday, June 21, 2008
Some good news
We can now able to connect to the Unicorn server from all libraries. I have Workflows up and running at both stations at West right now. Hiawatha is closed Sunday, but I will get out there Monday and get them going too.
Other good news: All the Sirsi reports are back to normal.
That's about it for now. Hang in there.
Leon
Other good news: All the Sirsi reports are back to normal.
That's about it for now. Hang in there.
Leon
Marion and Hiawatha Public Libraries
I've spoken to staff at Marion Public and Hiawatha Public Libraries. Apparently, Hiawatha Public Library does not open their doors until 9AM. So, people who work at this library may need to work 9-5:30 with a 30-minute lunch break.
At Marion Public Library you may start work at 8:30. There is a doorbell to the left of the book drop outside, if you ring it a staff member will let you in.
At Marion Public Library you may start work at 8:30. There is a doorbell to the left of the book drop outside, if you ring it a staff member will let you in.
Friday, June 20, 2008
Working at the Marion Public Library
I was fortunate to be at the Marion Public Library today, and I just had to share that everyone on the staff there was absolutely wonderful! They had set aside several lockers for us to use for our personal belongings, and they had posted a sign on each one that read "Cedar Rapids Staff...Welcome!"
It was very busy there throughout the day. All of the discharging for the entire Metro Library Network is being done at that location. That's incredible! Can you imagine the number of totes and carts of books that are filling their workroom area and how many items that they are handling?
In addition to all kinds of new ideas, I believe we will come back from working at other locations with tremendous gratitude and appreciation for our Metro Library Network partners!
It was very busy there throughout the day. All of the discharging for the entire Metro Library Network is being done at that location. That's incredible! Can you imagine the number of totes and carts of books that are filling their workroom area and how many items that they are handling?
In addition to all kinds of new ideas, I believe we will come back from working at other locations with tremendous gratitude and appreciation for our Metro Library Network partners!
The future of 1st St. CRPL
It might be worthwhile to think about the weather in the future developments at 1st St.
Article in CR Gazette Friday, June 20, 2008. "Climate change to fuel extreme weather: report".
Plans for the future of 1st St. may need to address the close proximity to the river. If CRPL remains at this site, architects may need to rethink space usage. This building, supposedly was designed and built with all of those columns throughout the main floor to one day, if needed, support an extension of the second floor past the Van Vechten window area as the second floor.
Perhaps there should be no main floor and make this parking or green space that the river could claim as it needed. At the very least no book stacks, with possible open interior meeting rooms and auditorium if walls were still needed for support. Carpeting and wallboard would not be as devastating to replace as the entire collection.....
We are in a very vulnerable position in this location. Much of the flooded areas will likely become greenfield in the very near future. We should think ahead along these lines, too. Grand Forks, ND should be a source of information for the city and the library board, since city officials have already traveled there this week and established the initial contacts.
Article in CR Gazette Friday, June 20, 2008. "Climate change to fuel extreme weather: report".
Plans for the future of 1st St. may need to address the close proximity to the river. If CRPL remains at this site, architects may need to rethink space usage. This building, supposedly was designed and built with all of those columns throughout the main floor to one day, if needed, support an extension of the second floor past the Van Vechten window area as the second floor.
Perhaps there should be no main floor and make this parking or green space that the river could claim as it needed. At the very least no book stacks, with possible open interior meeting rooms and auditorium if walls were still needed for support. Carpeting and wallboard would not be as devastating to replace as the entire collection.....
We are in a very vulnerable position in this location. Much of the flooded areas will likely become greenfield in the very near future. We should think ahead along these lines, too. Grand Forks, ND should be a source of information for the city and the library board, since city officials have already traveled there this week and established the initial contacts.
Working at Hiawatha
This was a very good experience. The Hiawatha people could not have been nicer, and they let me do pretty much everything they did. I got to be circ! It was fun. They seem very happy that we're sending over people to help them, and it does seem to be a good idea as they were extremely busy all day.
I think that working at other libraries and different places may turn out to be a salutary experience for us all. We will come back with all kinds of new ideas.
I think that working at other libraries and different places may turn out to be a salutary experience for us all. We will come back with all kinds of new ideas.
Finding Non-fiction books
If a patron wants a book about dogs, or space, or even has a specific title can go to google.com and type in for example: dewey decimal for "window treatments"
You still won't know if we have it on our shelves of course, but at least you can direct the patron to the right general area.
Good luck!
Anneli
You still won't know if we have it on our shelves of course, but at least you can direct the patron to the right general area.
Good luck!
Anneli
Thursday, June 19, 2008
confused about 211 'volunteer' slot for last Wednesday
This post is in reaction to the just received City email about refusing work and Lola's follow-up email to union members:
It wasn't in phone tree order, I wasn't asked to phone anyone else and there wasn't any indication it was anything other than a message being passed along about a local agency looking for more volunteers for an unpopular time slot. If it was an 'official' request it sure didn't sound like it, especially since we'd just been notified we were due at a mandatory Library Staff meeting the following morning (where I hoped I'd be given my work assignment).
Was that call an attempt to assign me work? Is the city calling this a refusal to work?
Nancy Geiger
West Info: 6/19/08
Children's is in the process of revamping their program schedule. Karla M has placed a revised Children's schedule at the West desk. They may be given out to patrons - they're light green. All Wed. & Thursday special Children's programs have been relocated to West. Of special interest is the revised "Story Hour" schedule: they will be held only on Monday and Tuesday. Special programs will continue to be held on Thursdays. EIEIO will continue on Fridays at Bever Park.
The Iowa Dept. of Health has dropped off several information sheets relating to disaster recovery. They have been placed in the black tower next to the public computers at West.
The media mis-reported that the West library is a source for clean-up kits, Red Cross and FEMA help. Here is what we found out: the Red Cross is actually set up outside on the "Steve and Barry" side of the mall. FEMA and the clean-up kits are outside over by Bishops.
Jill and Kirk
The Iowa Dept. of Health has dropped off several information sheets relating to disaster recovery. They have been placed in the black tower next to the public computers at West.
The media mis-reported that the West library is a source for clean-up kits, Red Cross and FEMA help. Here is what we found out: the Red Cross is actually set up outside on the "Steve and Barry" side of the mall. FEMA and the clean-up kits are outside over by Bishops.
Jill and Kirk
All-Staff Notes
Tam first thanked everyone for coming in to meet together and reminded everyone of EAP services, if needed, during this very stressful time. She also made everyone aware of the city's plan for some sort of special flood-related leave.
Beginning Friday, staff who are not on flex will be working somewhere. If you are scheduled off-site, please remember that you are representing the CRPL. We know that you are always friendly and professional; we need you to always keep that in mind.
There will a second staff meeting Friday morning at Westdale at 8:30. *Please remember to park beyond the faded blue line.* If you are on lfs, you don’t need to attend, as the meeting will evolve into a day of work. Carol will update everyone on the new schedule (as it exists at this point); we will try to do some cleaning; we will try to do some training. You MAY be asked to travel to another worksite, so please be prepared as much as possible.
The Foundation is going to make Marie D. a full-time staff member to take charge of external communications so Tam can focus on internal matters. Marie will be the FEMA contact and will be watchful for other helping organizations and grant opportunities. She will provide leadership for volunteer coordination. She also will be involved in long-term fundraising and the 2009 levy increase request.
As you noted, Roger and Leon successfully redeployed the Unicorn server at Marion. Hiawatha and West will be next--when a few more kinks are worked out.
Managers will share nights and weekends with other staff at West so public has a managerial person to talk with if desired.
During much of the meeting, staff were informed of the new delegation of management duties. Here are those highlights:
Manager duties:Christina Riedel: West management--work with Marion and Hiawatha to optimize circulation functioning.
Pat Schabo--facilitate communication between Maintenance crew at Main and the remaining managers. Undertake one-time duties as assigned.
Leon Green & Roger Rayborn--get IT up & running. Circulation system has been installed at Marion.Rebecca Bartlett--explore other possible rental spaces from which we can provide library services. Keeper of documents relating to managerial & other meetings.Carol Hoke--scheduling ALL staff: West, Hiawatha, Marion, 211 line, special tasks, additional work opportunities. Karen Johnson--materials recovery at Main, finding furniture, covering for me as needed.Kit Wong--payroll, finance, etc as usualJeff Krohn--working where needed. Coordinating clean-up with Dean Archer.
That’s about it for now. We also have a Q&A list, but haven’t yet transcribed it from scribbled notes. Thanks again to all of our super staff!
Karen, Tam, Rebecca
Beginning Friday, staff who are not on flex will be working somewhere. If you are scheduled off-site, please remember that you are representing the CRPL. We know that you are always friendly and professional; we need you to always keep that in mind.
There will a second staff meeting Friday morning at Westdale at 8:30. *Please remember to park beyond the faded blue line.* If you are on lfs, you don’t need to attend, as the meeting will evolve into a day of work. Carol will update everyone on the new schedule (as it exists at this point); we will try to do some cleaning; we will try to do some training. You MAY be asked to travel to another worksite, so please be prepared as much as possible.
The Foundation is going to make Marie D. a full-time staff member to take charge of external communications so Tam can focus on internal matters. Marie will be the FEMA contact and will be watchful for other helping organizations and grant opportunities. She will provide leadership for volunteer coordination. She also will be involved in long-term fundraising and the 2009 levy increase request.
As you noted, Roger and Leon successfully redeployed the Unicorn server at Marion. Hiawatha and West will be next--when a few more kinks are worked out.
Managers will share nights and weekends with other staff at West so public has a managerial person to talk with if desired.
During much of the meeting, staff were informed of the new delegation of management duties. Here are those highlights:
Manager duties:Christina Riedel: West management--work with Marion and Hiawatha to optimize circulation functioning.
Pat Schabo--facilitate communication between Maintenance crew at Main and the remaining managers. Undertake one-time duties as assigned.
Leon Green & Roger Rayborn--get IT up & running. Circulation system has been installed at Marion.Rebecca Bartlett--explore other possible rental spaces from which we can provide library services. Keeper of documents relating to managerial & other meetings.Carol Hoke--scheduling ALL staff: West, Hiawatha, Marion, 211 line, special tasks, additional work opportunities. Karen Johnson--materials recovery at Main, finding furniture, covering for me as needed.Kit Wong--payroll, finance, etc as usualJeff Krohn--working where needed. Coordinating clean-up with Dean Archer.
That’s about it for now. We also have a Q&A list, but haven’t yet transcribed it from scribbled notes. Thanks again to all of our super staff!
Karen, Tam, Rebecca
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
Making progress
I was able to log in at Marion tonight.
I made all patrons fine-exempt tonight, effective immediately.
The daily reports got messed up, so I'm still working on those and hope to get most of them back in order before closing time.
I hope to have Marion's standlone transactions in order before I leave.
That's about it for now. Hang in there.
Leon
I made all patrons fine-exempt tonight, effective immediately.
The daily reports got messed up, so I'm still working on those and hope to get most of them back in order before closing time.
I hope to have Marion's standlone transactions in order before I leave.
That's about it for now. Hang in there.
Leon
All-staff meeting Friday, June 20
We will have another all-staff CRPL meeting at Westdale Mall on Friday, June 20 at 8:30AM. See you there!
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
After the Board meeting
Hi all--
Just wanted to check in after tonight's Board meeting at Marion. Lola, Rebecca, Karen & others have done a great job here helping to keep you updated on the managerial stuff, and I'm grateful.
The Board is well aware that our staff struggled like crazy to sandbag, move materials, save the Zerzanek materials, etc. They are deeply grateful for all you did to minimize the damage.
Also--I've been meeting daily with city managers. I have to applaud the city for moving quickly to establish order and create a plan. They have REALLY cooperated with the library. It's good to see.
Early tomorrow we will see the arrivals of gigantic dehumidifiers that will begin the process of drawing out all the moisture in the air (of which there is plenty.) Some of our books are starting to really suck it up, so they have to be dried out quickly before the mold starts.
I don't want to minimize the damage; there's a lot of loss. BUT--it's SO much better than I had envisioned that I feel we're going to be able to get through this and handle it.
I'm really looking forward to seeing y'all at tomorrow's meeting. If possible, I'll try to have some photos you can see (can't promise yet; computers are in short supply.)
Take care,
Tam
Just wanted to check in after tonight's Board meeting at Marion. Lola, Rebecca, Karen & others have done a great job here helping to keep you updated on the managerial stuff, and I'm grateful.
The Board is well aware that our staff struggled like crazy to sandbag, move materials, save the Zerzanek materials, etc. They are deeply grateful for all you did to minimize the damage.
Also--I've been meeting daily with city managers. I have to applaud the city for moving quickly to establish order and create a plan. They have REALLY cooperated with the library. It's good to see.
Early tomorrow we will see the arrivals of gigantic dehumidifiers that will begin the process of drawing out all the moisture in the air (of which there is plenty.) Some of our books are starting to really suck it up, so they have to be dried out quickly before the mold starts.
I don't want to minimize the damage; there's a lot of loss. BUT--it's SO much better than I had envisioned that I feel we're going to be able to get through this and handle it.
I'm really looking forward to seeing y'all at tomorrow's meeting. If possible, I'll try to have some photos you can see (can't promise yet; computers are in short supply.)
Take care,
Tam
Wednesday, June 18 Mandatory Staff Meeting
Just some updates about tomorrow. First, you will need a tetanus shot if you will be working in the main building of the CRPL. The city nurses will be giving them at 7AM Wednesday, June 18 at Westdale Mall next to the Chick Fil-A on the first floor. Get there early as you can, because they will be free to all city employees and the lines may be long. Second, we will be having a mandatory CRPL staff meeting Wednesday, June 18 at Westdale Mall at 2PM. Everyone must attend! See you there.
Board Meeting 6/17/08--STAFF MTG TOMORROW!!
First of all, if you haven't heard there will be an all staff meeting tomorrow at 2pm at the former Famous Footwear location at Westdale Mall. Also tetatnus shots will be available from the city at Westdale starting at 7am. They will also be offered at 1pm at a different location. I didn't catch where, maybe Water Dept at Shaver Rd?? All city staff members will be paid through the end of this week. Starting next Monday, you must working somewhere in order to be paid. We will be sending staff to MPL and HPL in addition to some working at the new West location. If we can send everyone to library locations, there are places in the city where we can help. Also there is Emergency Disaster Leave available for employees who have to deal with flood problems. So if you have been displaced and have flood matters to deal with, please contact your supervisor regarding this.
First info on the building. As you know Tam, Roger, Jeff and Nick entered the building today. Tam said it was not nearly as bad as she expected, but she also said that depends on how bad you were expecting. She said it looks like the water came about 5 ft up the walls on the main floor and many materials will be salvagable. We may have some professional help in this matter. All of the shelving was standing, also a good thing. The building has not been cleared for general staff to go in. I believe it has passed the structural inspection, but failed the health department inspection due to air quality and contamination issues. Currently a professional Recovery team, hired by the city is working in the building. The Unicorn server has been removed to Marion Public Library and Rogher and Nick hope to have at least MPL up on the regular system by tonight. One of the first things they are doing is installing large dehumidifiers in order to preserve the children's collection and other materials located on the first floor. The prime pieces of the Zerzanek collection were removed from the building, the remainder are in the closet in the ISAIC area and still safe for now. They hope to remove them tomorrow. The collection will be inspected by a professional conservationist from UofI. They are working for Brucemore to salvage and preserve endangered items from all the local cultural organizations. The Recovery team will most like be followed by a professional Cleaning and Sanitizing team also hired by the city. The library will of course have to pay for their share of these services. Due to the fact that all of our electrical connections are interior and owned by the library, Alliant reported that they would be unable to hook us up to the recently arrived mega-generator. The city has arranged for electricians to inspect and clean our electrical works and is flying in a generator for the library. Hiawatha Public Library will be taking over the Jewish Literature series for us. Marion Public Library has made room for the server and turned all their meeting rooms over to us. Staff members will soon be assigned to both locations to provide them with assistance. Some of the Childrens programming has already been rescheduled for Center Court at Westdale Mall, including Tom Pease.
Tam who has been attending daily 7am city managers meetings (in addition to an endless number of other meetings) said the city has been very concerned, helpful and inclusive.
Carol Hoke was responsible for getting the additional space at Westdale Mall. She reported that mall management suggested that Von Maur who is still paying rental on their old space, might be interested in making that available to us for a larger scale temp locaation. The old Kenwood House building was also suggested as was perhaps a limited services trailer located closer to downtown. Carol Hoke will investigate the potential locations and the board will be considering what the needs for temp location(s) might be. She also attended a meeting today which provided information from various sources. Human Resources reported that all city employees will be paid through the end of this week regardless of work status. As of Monday all employees need to on the job, a job, somewhere to get paid. Or on some type of leave. There is Emergency Leave available for those who are dealing with flood damage. FEMA was represented and emphasized the need to document and save all receipts. FEMA will pay 75% of flood loss/recovery, the state 10% and the we will realize the remaining 15%. EAP is available both for individuals and willing and able to set up meetings for entire departments.
The director seach has been postponed for an undeterminded period of time. We need to have an intact library to attract quality candidates.
The whole tenor of the board meeting was one of hope and positiveness. To coin a trite but applicable phrase. When you get lemons, make lemonade. The board is very much in favor of proceeding with and accelerating the building program. Rather than restore to the previous level for a couple of years and then proceed with it, they hope to move ahead and make the library better and brighter. Some aspects will have to be revamped and bumped up, such as the architectural plans take on a whole new aspect now. Susan Corrigan said that this situation has brought on new opportunities. Opportunities to bring all those associated with the library, staff, board, friends, foundation closer together and a more unified base of support for the library. It also brings the opportunity to create a better library with a brighter future. They are hard at work to figure out what is the best approach to do this. They will meet again next week again at MPL.
I think those are the highlights. If you have questions or I've missed something obvious, let me know I'll try to address it. In the meantime, I think we are very fortunate to have a caring, active Board of Trustees and a dedicated and intrepid acting director.
First info on the building. As you know Tam, Roger, Jeff and Nick entered the building today. Tam said it was not nearly as bad as she expected, but she also said that depends on how bad you were expecting. She said it looks like the water came about 5 ft up the walls on the main floor and many materials will be salvagable. We may have some professional help in this matter. All of the shelving was standing, also a good thing. The building has not been cleared for general staff to go in. I believe it has passed the structural inspection, but failed the health department inspection due to air quality and contamination issues. Currently a professional Recovery team, hired by the city is working in the building. The Unicorn server has been removed to Marion Public Library and Rogher and Nick hope to have at least MPL up on the regular system by tonight. One of the first things they are doing is installing large dehumidifiers in order to preserve the children's collection and other materials located on the first floor. The prime pieces of the Zerzanek collection were removed from the building, the remainder are in the closet in the ISAIC area and still safe for now. They hope to remove them tomorrow. The collection will be inspected by a professional conservationist from UofI. They are working for Brucemore to salvage and preserve endangered items from all the local cultural organizations. The Recovery team will most like be followed by a professional Cleaning and Sanitizing team also hired by the city. The library will of course have to pay for their share of these services. Due to the fact that all of our electrical connections are interior and owned by the library, Alliant reported that they would be unable to hook us up to the recently arrived mega-generator. The city has arranged for electricians to inspect and clean our electrical works and is flying in a generator for the library. Hiawatha Public Library will be taking over the Jewish Literature series for us. Marion Public Library has made room for the server and turned all their meeting rooms over to us. Staff members will soon be assigned to both locations to provide them with assistance. Some of the Childrens programming has already been rescheduled for Center Court at Westdale Mall, including Tom Pease.
Tam who has been attending daily 7am city managers meetings (in addition to an endless number of other meetings) said the city has been very concerned, helpful and inclusive.
Carol Hoke was responsible for getting the additional space at Westdale Mall. She reported that mall management suggested that Von Maur who is still paying rental on their old space, might be interested in making that available to us for a larger scale temp locaation. The old Kenwood House building was also suggested as was perhaps a limited services trailer located closer to downtown. Carol Hoke will investigate the potential locations and the board will be considering what the needs for temp location(s) might be. She also attended a meeting today which provided information from various sources. Human Resources reported that all city employees will be paid through the end of this week regardless of work status. As of Monday all employees need to on the job, a job, somewhere to get paid. Or on some type of leave. There is Emergency Leave available for those who are dealing with flood damage. FEMA was represented and emphasized the need to document and save all receipts. FEMA will pay 75% of flood loss/recovery, the state 10% and the we will realize the remaining 15%. EAP is available both for individuals and willing and able to set up meetings for entire departments.
The director seach has been postponed for an undeterminded period of time. We need to have an intact library to attract quality candidates.
The whole tenor of the board meeting was one of hope and positiveness. To coin a trite but applicable phrase. When you get lemons, make lemonade. The board is very much in favor of proceeding with and accelerating the building program. Rather than restore to the previous level for a couple of years and then proceed with it, they hope to move ahead and make the library better and brighter. Some aspects will have to be revamped and bumped up, such as the architectural plans take on a whole new aspect now. Susan Corrigan said that this situation has brought on new opportunities. Opportunities to bring all those associated with the library, staff, board, friends, foundation closer together and a more unified base of support for the library. It also brings the opportunity to create a better library with a brighter future. They are hard at work to figure out what is the best approach to do this. They will meet again next week again at MPL.
I think those are the highlights. If you have questions or I've missed something obvious, let me know I'll try to address it. In the meantime, I think we are very fortunate to have a caring, active Board of Trustees and a dedicated and intrepid acting director.
Grand Forks, North Dakota Recovery Booklet
Grand Forks, North Dakota experienced major flooding in 1997, and in the subsequent years they created this recovery booklet, which is in PDF format.
http://grandforksgov.com/Mayor/Recovery_Briefing_Book.pdf
http://grandforksgov.com/Mayor/Recovery_Briefing_Book.pdf
News from the CRPL - Finally!
Tam wanted me to let you know, that she and Karen, Roger and Jeff have made it into the main library today and they're surveying the situation. She wanted me to stress to you that they will be the ONLY ones allowed in the building for now. It looks like the water only got up about 5 feet on the first floor, and many of the books will be salvageable, which is better than we had originally expected. Tam will try to call an all-staff meeting on Wednesday and we will try to get everyone back to work as soon as possible. So please keep checking your email and the blog, and prepare to be called in to work as early as tomorrow (Wednesday).
If you still need to get a tetanus shot, the City will be providing free tetanus shots at 1PM today (Tuesday) at the Water Department at 1111 Shaver Road NE, Cedar Rapids, Iowa.
If you still need to get a tetanus shot, the City will be providing free tetanus shots at 1PM today (Tuesday) at the Water Department at 1111 Shaver Road NE, Cedar Rapids, Iowa.
snoopin'
just back from a "Recon Mission." walked down to the clearinghouse ( Stamats building ) and no water in the immediate areas. the parking lot was FULL of big trucks reading " First Response" and men in red shirts. i asked a small group if they'd been inside yet and was told no, they had not and were awaiting the ok from those that were currently inside, doing a " structural integrity inspection" of the structure. they go in next and will be doing the assessment of bacteria and air quality. i expected to smell dead things and river smell, but over all that hangs the stench of fuel, heavy, cloying, and MOST unpleasant! it followed me home and now i realize that odor will probably remain in my nostrils and back of my throat all day. UGH! BUT... judging by the high water mark on the facade of the building, there's a chance some of our warehouse inventory survived, thanks to the help received by Jean Kirby, Barb, her husband Scott and a neighbor friend of theirs. ( thank GOD the men were able to operate our f0rklift last Wednesday!) I was told by a red-shirt guy, " I don't think your forced vacation is over just yet." guess now we just wait some more.
Facebook site
Support For the Cedar Rapids Public Library
is the Facebook title....it is an open group. (http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=57881175164) It looks like a lot of interest and support. I want to encourage the interest, but I don't feel that I can give good, accurate information at this point. (and I'm really not well-versed in facebook!) Could someone else check this out and respond? Thanks much (Kevin is my son)
is the Facebook title....it is an open group. (http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=57881175164) It looks like a lot of interest and support. I want to encourage the interest, but I don't feel that I can give good, accurate information at this point. (and I'm really not well-versed in facebook!) Could someone else check this out and respond? Thanks much (Kevin is my son)
Days and hours? and a few other questions
Hi,
It's great to have this forum,thank you everyone for participating. Karen/Tam--do you have any idea what kind of schedules you'll want people to be working? I want to arrange additional childcare if you need/want me beyond 8:30-5. I'm looking forward to seeing you all soon.
Does the city need any of us to staff phones to distribute info about City and County services/locations/hours? To clean pet cages at Kirkwood? I'm willing to help where needed but also want to return to helping the library as soon as possible.
I noticed in the press release it talks about returning materials. Should we be encouraging people to do that or to hold onto materials due to space constraints? I had one person ask about materials lost in the flood. She doesn't have any renters insurance--can we co-ordinate a database of lost materials and submit a FEMA claim??
I realize answers won't be available for all these questions but wanted to start us all brainstorming.
Nancy G
Notes from Steam Monday a.m.
Tam met with the city managers Monday, June 16th, from 7 a.m. to 9. Here are some of the highlights:
Treat everything in the library building like a crime scene
Photograph everything in detail – we are buying 3 new digital cameras for a total of 4 cameras in the library
FEMA only writes checks, they do not provide planning or any other services
We will not be entering the library building until the city gives us the go-ahead
Dean Archer will be organizing the cleanup for whole city
Alliant will be providing backup generators for the whole downtown area
City purchasing will contract with a clean-up company
Non-city employees CANNOT be involved in the cleanup of hazardous materials
No one will be allowed in the library without proper safety equipment purchased through WW Grainger
Jim Prosser has asked that anyone complaining should be referred to him, not the City Council
Pam Hinman at the airport will be our communications liaison
Don Stockton will be the City safety liaison
Connie Huber needs to know which library staff members have lost their homes
Our plan of attack:
Brucemore will be providing assistance with our irreplaceable items such as the Zerzanek collection
All staff will be working full time in some way by Monday, May 23rd
We plan to have all staff members start work again by next week; Tam hopes to find a time very soon to hold an all-staff meeting to bring everyone up to date
Staff will be assigned tasks depending on their physical abilities/or restrictions. PLEASE let supervisors know if you have allergies, back problems, or other conditions which would prevent you from helping with clean-up. We need to know at the outset to prevent illness and injury.
The STEAM group will meet every day at 10AM
Marion Public Library has turned over all their meeting rooms to us
There will be a Riverfront planning meeting Tuesday June 17
Good news!
Westside branch library will be open its normal hours, beginning today
We will be renting several spaces to the left of the current Westside branch, including the old deli, the former Famous Footwear space and the former library space
It will take a little time to get this space organized
Please continue to stay in contact with us. Feel free to ask questions and mention your concerns. We're all very anxious to be busy again and actively engaged in the library business.
Thank you.
Karen and Rebecca
Treat everything in the library building like a crime scene
Photograph everything in detail – we are buying 3 new digital cameras for a total of 4 cameras in the library
FEMA only writes checks, they do not provide planning or any other services
We will not be entering the library building until the city gives us the go-ahead
Dean Archer will be organizing the cleanup for whole city
Alliant will be providing backup generators for the whole downtown area
City purchasing will contract with a clean-up company
Non-city employees CANNOT be involved in the cleanup of hazardous materials
No one will be allowed in the library without proper safety equipment purchased through WW Grainger
Jim Prosser has asked that anyone complaining should be referred to him, not the City Council
Pam Hinman at the airport will be our communications liaison
Don Stockton will be the City safety liaison
Connie Huber needs to know which library staff members have lost their homes
Our plan of attack:
Brucemore will be providing assistance with our irreplaceable items such as the Zerzanek collection
All staff will be working full time in some way by Monday, May 23rd
We plan to have all staff members start work again by next week; Tam hopes to find a time very soon to hold an all-staff meeting to bring everyone up to date
Staff will be assigned tasks depending on their physical abilities/or restrictions. PLEASE let supervisors know if you have allergies, back problems, or other conditions which would prevent you from helping with clean-up. We need to know at the outset to prevent illness and injury.
The STEAM group will meet every day at 10AM
Marion Public Library has turned over all their meeting rooms to us
There will be a Riverfront planning meeting Tuesday June 17
Good news!
Westside branch library will be open its normal hours, beginning today
We will be renting several spaces to the left of the current Westside branch, including the old deli, the former Famous Footwear space and the former library space
It will take a little time to get this space organized
Please continue to stay in contact with us. Feel free to ask questions and mention your concerns. We're all very anxious to be busy again and actively engaged in the library business.
Thank you.
Karen and Rebecca
News release to go out today--Get your news here!
LIBRARY SERVICES IN CEDAR RAPIDS METRO AREA AFTER FLOODING
Limited Services Available for Undetermined Future
The Cedar Rapids Public Library downtown building is closed indefinitely because of the recent flooding. All library materials can be returned to the Marion Public Library, the Hiawatha Public Library, the West Side Branch at Westdale Mall, or any of the drop boxes located in area Hy-Vee food stores.
There will be no fines charged on any items checked out from any of the Metro Area Libraries at least through the end of June.
Until library staff is able to recover their servers from the downtown building, patrons must have their library cards in-hand to check out books from Marion, Hiawatha, or the West Branch. Books cannot be reserved. Staff cannot check accounts or accept payments for existing fines. Neither staff nor patrons can search the catalog. The Cedar Rapids library’s Web site is down, although Web sites for the Marion and Hiawatha libraries are functioning.
Please contact any of the other Metro Area Libraries with questions: Marion Public Library at 377-3412, Hiawatha Public Library at 393-1414, or the West Side Branch at 390-7806. The self-serve phone line is not available.
Sent to press by Marion staff on our behalf.
Karen
Limited Services Available for Undetermined Future
The Cedar Rapids Public Library downtown building is closed indefinitely because of the recent flooding. All library materials can be returned to the Marion Public Library, the Hiawatha Public Library, the West Side Branch at Westdale Mall, or any of the drop boxes located in area Hy-Vee food stores.
There will be no fines charged on any items checked out from any of the Metro Area Libraries at least through the end of June.
Until library staff is able to recover their servers from the downtown building, patrons must have their library cards in-hand to check out books from Marion, Hiawatha, or the West Branch. Books cannot be reserved. Staff cannot check accounts or accept payments for existing fines. Neither staff nor patrons can search the catalog. The Cedar Rapids library’s Web site is down, although Web sites for the Marion and Hiawatha libraries are functioning.
Please contact any of the other Metro Area Libraries with questions: Marion Public Library at 377-3412, Hiawatha Public Library at 393-1414, or the West Side Branch at 390-7806. The self-serve phone line is not available.
Sent to press by Marion staff on our behalf.
Karen
Monday, June 16, 2008
I think this blog is a MARVELOUS idea; thank you Margaret. I stopped by Hiawatha library today, and the staff and patrons there also are very concerned about us. I shared the information I had.
I truly look forward to being able to do SOMETHING-sooner rather than later.
And by the way, my son said there is a "support the Cedar Rapids library" type group on Facebook, with over 100 members. I don't know much about Facebook, so will have to have him show me, but I thought that was very impressive.
Karla
I truly look forward to being able to do SOMETHING-sooner rather than later.
And by the way, my son said there is a "support the Cedar Rapids library" type group on Facebook, with over 100 members. I don't know much about Facebook, so will have to have him show me, but I thought that was very impressive.
Karla
More staff news
Carol Farris called me this morning to say she had been evacuated and is staying with her daughter in Walford. She has been out of touch and out of reach - her cell phone's reception does not reach to Walford. She is fine, although she got out with very little. I will call her later with the blog information. ~~Barbara
Patron questions...
I've been in contact with many people who have asked me: 1) How & when they can help the library recover and 2) what they should do about items they have checked out on their cards. Some did not know when their materials were due, others wondered if they should return the items now, or whether it would be helpful for them to keep the materials safe while the building dries out. I didn't know what to tell them. Have we decided how we will be handling offers of help &/or overdue items?
We're open at West!
Just wanted to share my experience this morning at West: patrons are very concerned about the library and many have expressed their sadness about the likely state of Main. Also, many have offered to volunteer should we require their help. Although we are quite "handicapped" as far as our service is concerned due to the fact that we are on Standalone, we were quite busy with incoming patrons and many, many phone calls. Everybody seemed genuinely happy that at least the West Branch was partially operating, and it felt good to be back at work!
On the negative side, my trip out to West took 50 minutes (I live near Aegon on the NE side) via I-380 and Wilson - can't wait for Edgewood to be opened up again.
Take care, everyone!
On the negative side, my trip out to West took 50 minutes (I live near Aegon on the NE side) via I-380 and Wilson - can't wait for Edgewood to be opened up again.
Take care, everyone!
Staff and plans
I have also heard the Larry H had to evacuate and the house may have had major damage. If you are a Union member, CWA has a disaster relief fund that you can apply to for money to help cover your loses. If you have sustained damages and are a member, please contact me and I will work on getting the paperwork to you.
I managed to get to the other side of town today and stopped in a West and West 2. It felt so good to see and talk to other staff members. The staff there was busy, busy, busy. And they were taking many calls from the public inquiring about the library. Nice to know people care. I also saw and spoke to all the managers (not they aren't staff members, but you know what I mean.) They are still anxious to get into the building to get the Unicorn server. But that has been blocked by the city still due to safety concerns. They are making plans for a staff meeting to be held later this week. Tam is busy going to meetings for the city. They are busy trying to get us all back to work in some capacity.
Does anyone know what happened out at the Substance Abuse clearinghouse? If anyone has emails for Substance Abuse staffers, please make sure they are invited to the blog. I heard that the Friends were able to move most of their materials to a higher floor. Can anyone confirm this?
There is a board meeting scheduled for 4pm tomorrow at the Marion Public Library to deal with emergency issues. I will attend that and post notes from it on this blog.
I managed to get to the other side of town today and stopped in a West and West 2. It felt so good to see and talk to other staff members. The staff there was busy, busy, busy. And they were taking many calls from the public inquiring about the library. Nice to know people care. I also saw and spoke to all the managers (not they aren't staff members, but you know what I mean.) They are still anxious to get into the building to get the Unicorn server. But that has been blocked by the city still due to safety concerns. They are making plans for a staff meeting to be held later this week. Tam is busy going to meetings for the city. They are busy trying to get us all back to work in some capacity.
Does anyone know what happened out at the Substance Abuse clearinghouse? If anyone has emails for Substance Abuse staffers, please make sure they are invited to the blog. I heard that the Friends were able to move most of their materials to a higher floor. Can anyone confirm this?
There is a board meeting scheduled for 4pm tomorrow at the Marion Public Library to deal with emergency issues. I will attend that and post notes from it on this blog.
my house
Just to let everyone know, I did have to evacuate and was able to get out safely with my six cats and I am living at my cousin's house.
What we know is my basement is completely flooded from the top of the stairs, all the carpet was wet and was estimated to be 1 inch of water. Do not know anymore than that asIcan't get back in the house until they allow my landlord in.
Important thing is that I am safe and so are my family of cats.
Pat
What we know is my basement is completely flooded from the top of the stairs, all the carpet was wet and was estimated to be 1 inch of water. Do not know anymore than that asIcan't get back in the house until they allow my landlord in.
Important thing is that I am safe and so are my family of cats.
Pat
Journal articles
We made the front page of Library Journal and the American Library Association webpages:
http://www.ala.org/ala/alonline/index.cfm
http://www.libraryjournal.com
Yay, the circ people are in the house!
Marilyn Schipper sent me a huge list of home e-mail addresses and the circ department should be showing up soon. They've all been invited and I've sent them additional e-mails because some people's e-mail programs seem to filter out my spam-like blog invitations. Thanks so much for the wonderful help in getting people linked up.
Another contact
Hi All,
In case you cannot reach me at my home phone number, I do have a cell phone. That number is (563)271-8237. It is on most of the time and is with me wherever I go. If you use Verizon as a cell provider, it shouldn't cost you a thing. Hoping to see you all real soon!
Kristine
In case you cannot reach me at my home phone number, I do have a cell phone. That number is (563)271-8237. It is on most of the time and is with me wherever I go. If you use Verizon as a cell provider, it shouldn't cost you a thing. Hoping to see you all real soon!
Kristine
Double bed available
Hi, I have a room with a double bed that I can make available to someone if they need it. I live just a few blocks from Mt Mercy College. You can reach me by cell at 270-8194. FYI, I have both cats and dogs in case you're allergic.
I think Amy or Sandy said that Patricia had also been evacuated.
Nancy Geiger
Sunday, June 15, 2008
Tam on Sunday
Hi folks--I'm going to try to post on here at least once a day.
Unfortuantely, since I talked with Karen earlier, I have discovered that the city is out of tetanus shots. They should have some mid-week, & I'll let you know about them. We'll have to have them before we can help with clean-up.
Several things of note:
Conni Huber says that the city intends to pay employees at least through the end of this week, even if not working. However, we plan to have everybody working somewhere by then. If not enough library work, the city can find other work, but I don't think we'll need that. I think we'll have plenty to do. You should NOT be in any danger of losing pay. Please stay tuned.
Manager's meeting will be held tomorrow morning at 10; we will plan an all-staff later in the week.
City will be setting up some stress/trauma workshops for all of us soon.
We plan to work tomorrow on starting to set up Famous Footwear at Westdale as a sort of "West Side Branch 2." Not sure exactly what it will contain yet: to be determined at our mgrs meeting.
Marion Library has given us the total run of their meeting rooms for whatever we need.
Conservation efforts are now being coordinated by Brucemore for the entire arts community. The Z materials will be dealt with if there is any humidity damage.
Dean Archer has promised to try to get our building inspected as soon as he can so we can enter & begin cleanup.
I have a city managers' meeting tomorrow at 7am (yikes!) Should know more about city cleanup efforts after. City wants to coordinate everything smoothly.
Please share this info with other staff!!
See you later--
Tam
Unfortuantely, since I talked with Karen earlier, I have discovered that the city is out of tetanus shots. They should have some mid-week, & I'll let you know about them. We'll have to have them before we can help with clean-up.
Several things of note:
Conni Huber says that the city intends to pay employees at least through the end of this week, even if not working. However, we plan to have everybody working somewhere by then. If not enough library work, the city can find other work, but I don't think we'll need that. I think we'll have plenty to do. You should NOT be in any danger of losing pay. Please stay tuned.
Manager's meeting will be held tomorrow morning at 10; we will plan an all-staff later in the week.
City will be setting up some stress/trauma workshops for all of us soon.
We plan to work tomorrow on starting to set up Famous Footwear at Westdale as a sort of "West Side Branch 2." Not sure exactly what it will contain yet: to be determined at our mgrs meeting.
Marion Library has given us the total run of their meeting rooms for whatever we need.
Conservation efforts are now being coordinated by Brucemore for the entire arts community. The Z materials will be dealt with if there is any humidity damage.
Dean Archer has promised to try to get our building inspected as soon as he can so we can enter & begin cleanup.
I have a city managers' meeting tomorrow at 7am (yikes!) Should know more about city cleanup efforts after. City wants to coordinate everything smoothly.
Please share this info with other staff!!
See you later--
Tam
Turned back again
We were turned away from the skywalk again today when we tried to enter to at least retrieve the Unicorn server. There was a problem at the Town Center so they would not let anyone by there. We're hoping that in a day or two we'll be allowed to enter the second floor; and we'll let you all know as soon as that happens.
In the meantime, everyone is urged to get a tetanus shot if you're due for one. At some point we will be cleaning up and out, so if you're prepared all the better. St. Lukes is giving them; CVS Pharmacy may still be giving them; and Tam will send out info about the city giving them.
For tomorrow, do not report to work unless you have been contacted. We know that everyone is extremely anxious to do something, but we're not at the point yet to assign duties. We'll let you know very soon about what you should do. Expect to be at work soon. Also, Tam is hoping to find a location for an all-staff meeting so that everyone can be updated at once. We'll keep in touch.
If you have a colleague's email, please let them know about this blog. It is for CRPL PEOPLE -- all people. We want to connect with everyone, but do not yet have emails for you all.
As I said yesterday, we are expecting you all to keep the faith. We'll be seeing you all soon.
Karen
In the meantime, everyone is urged to get a tetanus shot if you're due for one. At some point we will be cleaning up and out, so if you're prepared all the better. St. Lukes is giving them; CVS Pharmacy may still be giving them; and Tam will send out info about the city giving them.
For tomorrow, do not report to work unless you have been contacted. We know that everyone is extremely anxious to do something, but we're not at the point yet to assign duties. We'll let you know very soon about what you should do. Expect to be at work soon. Also, Tam is hoping to find a location for an all-staff meeting so that everyone can be updated at once. We'll keep in touch.
If you have a colleague's email, please let them know about this blog. It is for CRPL PEOPLE -- all people. We want to connect with everyone, but do not yet have emails for you all.
As I said yesterday, we are expecting you all to keep the faith. We'll be seeing you all soon.
Karen
City's emergency plan
What was the City emergency thing we all had to go to? If, say, we can't work at the library right away, can we work elsewhere for the city?
Anne
Anne
anticipating a shower!!
I'm an even building number and tomorrow is even!!
Everyone odd and odd, today, enjoy your taken-for-granted privilege!!
Are we supposed to report anywhere tomorrow, Monday? To Westdale, or wait for word yet?
Everyone odd and odd, today, enjoy your taken-for-granted privilege!!
Are we supposed to report anywhere tomorrow, Monday? To Westdale, or wait for word yet?
Staff status??
Does anyone know anything about how the staff has gotten along during the floods? I know that Sandy B from the clearing house lives in Palo and had to evacuate, I also heard that Pat S also had to evacuate. If anyone has information on other staff members, please share with the rest of us. Also if there is anything those of us who are dry and can help, let us know.
Lola
Lola
Saturday, June 14, 2008
Clean up and questions
All of those are good suggestions. I don't know how quickly the staff in general will be allowed in. My understanding is that the building will have to inspected for structural integrity and by the health department to determine that it not unsafe.
The building behind Vitos may be for the city in general. I was told that paper paychecks could be picked up at the offices of one of the city golf courses and I think that is the Twin Pines area.
The blog is for everyone. Rebecca was just the first to come up with the home email addresses first. If you have email addresses for other staff members in other departments, please please share the site with them. We want everyone to have a place to share thoughts, commiserate and connect. Margaret is brilliant!!
The building behind Vitos may be for the city in general. I was told that paper paychecks could be picked up at the offices of one of the city golf courses and I think that is the Twin Pines area.
The blog is for everyone. Rebecca was just the first to come up with the home email addresses first. If you have email addresses for other staff members in other departments, please please share the site with them. We want everyone to have a place to share thoughts, commiserate and connect. Margaret is brilliant!!
prep work on your own/other questions?
I've already gotten my tetanus shot and encourage folks to go to either Mercy or St. Lukes branches on your respective sides of town. These shots are free. If you haven't had one in 10 years, you'll need one.
I've purchased boots, gloves, rubber apron, since we'll have a lot of cleaning
to do, I expect. I went to Goodwill and bought long sleeved shirts, since the OSHA guidelines recommend this also. This was an e-mail from City Nurse that I copied the other day. Maybe you can get this on their website. They also recommend DEET repellant for mosquitoes, and I suppose there's a possibility of this inside as well as outside a building. I went to Thiesen's for boots and such. Maybe you east side people have a farm supply by Marion? There may be a shortage now, since most were gone on Friday when I was running around trying to grab supplies.
The news conference on KCRG today talked about the library staff working at Westdale, and the Administrative staff would be at River Ridge behind Vito's. What is this?
Can we get a van to be donated by a local car dealership?
I ran into Mary G. at the St. Lukes clinic for tetanus. Are we including all of the other departments on this blog/e-mail list. She said she's only talked with Jill and Kristeena.
I've purchased boots, gloves, rubber apron, since we'll have a lot of cleaning
to do, I expect. I went to Goodwill and bought long sleeved shirts, since the OSHA guidelines recommend this also. This was an e-mail from City Nurse that I copied the other day. Maybe you can get this on their website. They also recommend DEET repellant for mosquitoes, and I suppose there's a possibility of this inside as well as outside a building. I went to Thiesen's for boots and such. Maybe you east side people have a farm supply by Marion? There may be a shortage now, since most were gone on Friday when I was running around trying to grab supplies.
The news conference on KCRG today talked about the library staff working at Westdale, and the Administrative staff would be at River Ridge behind Vito's. What is this?
Can we get a van to be donated by a local car dealership?
I ran into Mary G. at the St. Lukes clinic for tetanus. Are we including all of the other departments on this blog/e-mail list. She said she's only talked with Jill and Kristeena.
Update from Tam
Hello all--
First, thanks to Margaret for thinking of a blog!
Nancy Kraft, who is a specialist in library preservation (and particularly flooding) will be helping us with our cleanup efforts. She and I are trying to set up a meeting with other affected organizations so we can all work together. FEMA will be involved as well.
As of now, we still can't get in to assess (as Karen posted.) When we can, first order of business will be to move the Unicorn server (probably to Marion) so we won't be running West (and the other MEtro libraries) on standalone for too long.
As soon as we can get in and assess the situation, we'll be calling staff in to help. I don't know the process or procedure yet, but there will be plenty of work to do!
I saw Dennis M, the Board member today as we were trying to get in (his law firm was also flooded.) He gave me a hug and reminded me that we'll get through this . Our staff is safe, and maybe this will just move the building program forward faster than we expected. In an odd way, this could end up being a blessing in disguise in the long run.
I keep trying to focus on those positives: the best part of the library--the staff--is safe & strong.
Tam
First, thanks to Margaret for thinking of a blog!
Nancy Kraft, who is a specialist in library preservation (and particularly flooding) will be helping us with our cleanup efforts. She and I are trying to set up a meeting with other affected organizations so we can all work together. FEMA will be involved as well.
As of now, we still can't get in to assess (as Karen posted.) When we can, first order of business will be to move the Unicorn server (probably to Marion) so we won't be running West (and the other MEtro libraries) on standalone for too long.
As soon as we can get in and assess the situation, we'll be calling staff in to help. I don't know the process or procedure yet, but there will be plenty of work to do!
I saw Dennis M, the Board member today as we were trying to get in (his law firm was also flooded.) He gave me a hug and reminded me that we'll get through this . Our staff is safe, and maybe this will just move the building program forward faster than we expected. In an odd way, this could end up being a blessing in disguise in the long run.
I keep trying to focus on those positives: the best part of the library--the staff--is safe & strong.
Tam
long day at the skywalk
Sorry to tell you all that we were unable to make our way to the library to check on things today, despite our best efforts. There were hundreds of folks waiting with us to assess damage and woefully few escorts to take people in. The time to spend for each business was limited to 20 minutes and only essential items were to be taken out.
We did see a few business owners return to the parkade while we still waited, but before our turn to go occurred, there was an important check of air quality and everyone was asked to wait another couple of hours before getting the opportunity to be chaperoned through the skywalk.
When we returned to the parkade, ready to make our trek and with a well-organized plan as to what our goals were, we were told that indeed there was a gas problem and it would not be safe to go. We were asked to leave the parkade as well and simply told that there MIGHT be another chance to visit the downtown area at a later date.
We'll keep everyone apprised as best we can. We know you all share our concerns and hopes for as quick a recovery as possible. Please keep the faith that we will recover and that you all will be busy. We all appreciate your support.
Karen
We did see a few business owners return to the parkade while we still waited, but before our turn to go occurred, there was an important check of air quality and everyone was asked to wait another couple of hours before getting the opportunity to be chaperoned through the skywalk.
When we returned to the parkade, ready to make our trek and with a well-organized plan as to what our goals were, we were told that indeed there was a gas problem and it would not be safe to go. We were asked to leave the parkade as well and simply told that there MIGHT be another chance to visit the downtown area at a later date.
We'll keep everyone apprised as best we can. We know you all share our concerns and hopes for as quick a recovery as possible. Please keep the faith that we will recover and that you all will be busy. We all appreciate your support.
Karen
How to use
I have this set up so that anyone may comment. If you comment with your e-mail address and request to be "invited," I can send you an invitation. Once you are added to the blog as an author, you will be able to make posts such as this one. Only possibly not as boring.
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