LIBRARY NOTES
From the Head Librarian: Winter 2007
Monday, January 1, 2007
New Year, New and Old Faces
January is seeing some qualities of the Library returning to their old style, and
other things changing and improving. We expect a good year of lectures, workshops,
children's events, reference questions, and, of course, books.
The Renovation
At this writing, the east elevator is scheduled to be in full working order by
early this month. The interior paneling with its period charm has been restored.
We were also pleased to refurbish the entry hall plaque given by our historic
donor Sarah Parker Goodhue. We appreciate all the feedback heard from
members about the renovation, both complimentary and critical; please continue
to share your comments. Improvements based on member requests include
some new chairs and cushions in the fifth-floor Large Study Room and the
upcoming installation of grab bars in the public restrooms.
The Audio Book Collection
Many members have a particular interest in our audio
book collection. The Library holds almost 1,200 books on
cassette or compact disc, and our collection continues to
grow. Most recent audio book acquisitions can be found at
the end of the monthly New Book List; a full list of audio
holdings is available at the front desk or on the website. With a few exceptions,
the Library collects only unabridged classic titles - books that
will continue to be read (and listened to) for decades to come.
Shelf space, cost, and the limited availability of some titles prevents us from acquiring
more widely in current fiction and some other areas. Most of the audio
collection is in cassette form, but new additions and replacements are purchased
on compact disc, if available. If you have requests, questions, or comments about
the audio collection, please let us know.
Staff News
The major innovations this season involve some new
faces among the staff and changes to the titles and responsibilities
of some familiar staff members. Jane Goldstein, since
1998 the Head of Circulation, is the new Assistant Head
Librarian, and Diane Srebnick has been named Development
Assistant in a new two-person development office. We
are also hiring a new Head of Cataloging and Bibliographic
Maintenance, a Director of Development, and a Circulation
Supervisor. Jane and Diane will still be visible at the front desk, and you can
look forward to meeting the other new staff members in the coming months.
Mark Bartlett
Head Librarian
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