City Bookmobile

Never Can Say Goodbye

2009-10-22T07:23:00.000-07:00

What's that saying about the best laid plans? The emergency staff meeting last month ended up being a notification instead of a preparation. I learned that unless a major source of funding comes through, the three branches and the bookmobile will cease operations by year's end. Worse than that, I was informed that my beloved Outreach Program was being discontinued, effective immediately. I have spent the last three weeks breaking the news to my devoted senior patrons, collecting outstanding materials, tying up loose ends, and saying goodbye. My patrons won't know me in a professional capacity any longer. I will no longer bring them books, movies, and CDs to help them pass the time enjoyably. As of October 30, these wonderful people will no longer be my patrons. They'll simply be my friends. You see, I've spent a year getting to know these people - really getting to know them. I know who lives alone. I know who likes mysteries and who likes romances. I know who cross-stitches and who knits. I know who likes musicals and who likes comedies. I know who reads books on CD and who needs books on tape. I know who is battling a serious illness and who is losing the fight. I know who has relatives who visit regularly, and I also know who doesn't. I've been a witness to their lives, and they've been one to mine. They tease me about my noisy cart. They ask about my children. They fuss over pictures of my dog. They fret when I am sick. We bonded over books initially, but that common thread wove itself into a real and lasting fabric of friendship. The loss of the outreach program is sad, but fortunately, our investments in each other as people and as friends remain secure.

Where Do We Go From Here?

2009-09-24T07:42:00.000-07:00

RPL employees have been summoned to a special staff meeting tomorrow. We will be apprised of the current budget situation and its ramifications for the staff. Speculation is running rampant; will there be talk of layoffs? Tomorrow's meeting is purely informative. No one knows what will unfold when the state finally passes a budget, but it's difficult to remain positive when the financial circumstances are so dire. I do not know how long my program will continue. I'd be upset, of course, to find myself unemployed in the foreseeable future, but what would upset me more is the thought of no longer visiting with my elderly patrons every two weeks. Several of them have expressed sincere remorse at possibly losing their mobile library, the personalized service, and my kind voice/smiling face (their words). These people have made my job so rewarding, professionally and personally. I make people so happy just by showing up and lending them books! Many of the patrons regard the Outreach program as a lifeline - something to look forward to, something that perpetuates the cognitive and emotional connections made in their minds and hearts. Knowing my program has made such an impact is both heartening and humbling for me. Until I'm told otherwise, I will be operating full "read" ahead. I've got new Nora Roberts, Nicholas Sparks, and Dan Brown novels to lend!

Struggles with Brevity

2009-08-27T06:44:00.000-07:00

I'm preparing for the PaLA Conference in October. My boss submitted a poster session proposal for the outreach program, and it was selected to participate. I am creating a tri-fold poster that explains the program and spotlights patrons in action. I took some wonderful pictures of the seniors perusing the collection and checking out materials. Now I need to arrange the text and the photos on the poster board so that the overall presentation is clean, concise, and aesthetically pleasing. Doing that may not seem difficult, but it is when the assembler is wordy and detail-obsessed! How can I possibly encompass this wonderful, beneficial program in a synopsis and a few bulleted points? Rambling, hyper-detailed descriptions are my specialty, but they won't serve well in this project. I plan to triumph over the temptation to besiege the reader with a plethora of prose. Game on!!

Save Our Libraries

2009-07-23T06:10:00.000-07:00

Within the last several weeks, many Outreach patrons have expressed concerns to me about the future of the program. Will it continue next year, and if it does, will I still be the administrator, and will there be any new materials? I get a lump in my throat when elderly patrons tell me how much they depend on the program and the library to "keep them going." Unfortunately, I don't have definitive answers for them. With the state considering a 50% reduction of library funding and the possibility of the city of Reading withdrawing all financial support by the end of 2009, circumstances seem dire indeed for the Reading Public Library and its branches. Many people feel helpless to remedy the situation, but there is something we can all do to help. The Main library, the branches, and the bookmobile have been stocked with copies of a newsletter from the library's Board of Trustees President, Ronald Hatt. In his letter, he urges patrons to "contact your local and state representatives to express your support of RPL. You must ask government officials at all levels to reconsider the anticipated cuts in funding which will decimate the valuable services RPL provides for the entire community." Please look for this pink-colored newsletter at the circulation desks (you will receive one with any materials you borrow), and email or phone in your support. Contact information for city/government representatives is listed on the reverse side. Let your voice be heard in support of Pennsylvania libraries!

Happy Days

2009-06-25T06:53:00.000-07:00

"You've made me so happy, Miss." That was a departure comment I received from a new patron three weeks ago, and it has echoed in my ears ever since. He's 96 years young and likes to read westerns. Because of physical limitations, he's been unable to access library materials for several years. The outreach program was recommended to him by a lady who volunteers at his facility. He was pleasantly surprised to discover my crates were stocked with books by several popular western authors. He remarked what a good idea a "traveling library" was and also stated he felt particularly blessed to be the lone male among several female participants! I just saw him again a few days ago: he was waiting for me outside the community room. As I placed the desired book he mentioned at the last visit in his hands, his astonishment rendered him speechless. After a minute or so, he smiled at me and said warmly, "Miss, you've made me happy again." Those words are fuel for the perpetuality tank of the outreach program.

Summer Reading

2009-05-28T07:52:00.000-07:00

Hello, Reading Public Library Patrons! Please remember to visit your local libraries and stock up on beach reads, DIY books, cookbooks, and gardening manuals for the approaching summer season. Moms and Dads, keep your kids reading over the summer by joining the summer reading program offered at the main library and its branches. This year's theme is "Be Creative," and kids are sure to experience the enthusiasm generated by incentives (prizes!) offered for the number of books read over the course of the summer. The Bookmobile and Bookmobile Outreach Program are also ready for summer reading. New print and audio/visual materials will be available within two weeks, and we have summer reading recommendations for all ages. We also take requests! Come see us; we'll keep you entertained all summer long.

May is Older Americans Month

2009-04-30T07:20:00.000-07:00

I thought my bookmobile patrons might like some information on an upcoming event at Reading Area Community College (RACC) in recognition of Older Americans Month. From May 24-June 5, RACC is holding a Senior Festival of the Arts, sponsored by our good friends at the Berks County Office of Aging. The celebration kicks off on Sunday, May 24 with the opening of the art exhibit. Plan on attending the reception from 2 to 5 p.m. Events include an art contest and the exhibit, poetry, music, demonstrations, lectures, and dancing. There will also be a remembrance of John Updike at 3:15 p.m. on May 24 in the main campus building. There will be plenty to see and do for young and old alike! For more information, please contact the Berks County Office of Aging at 610-478-6500. Hope to see you there!!

Partnership

2009-03-27T08:02:00.000-07:00

Today's staff meeting focused on the importance of community partnerships with regard to increasing support of and patronage at the library. I sat across from Matthew, the Bookmobile Coordinator, and as I listened to the lecturer describe how to forge productive partnerships with local organizations, I realized that I haven't attributed enough credit to Matthew for the success of the Outreach Program. I couldn't do what I do without Matthew's assistance. He drives the Bookmobile and knows the city like the back of his hand. Parking is always an issue on crowded and narrow city streets, but Matthew always manages to get close enough to the entrances (most times he has to be creative) so that the distance I have to travel with a cumbersome platform truck is manageable. At each elderly housing site, he helps me unload and reload extremely heavy book crates, which saves me time and energy. Because he is so well-read, he can make informed recommendations as I stare blankly at the fiction shelves (remember, I'm a non-fiction gal). He answers my computer system questions, organizes and tracks holds, and maintains the material collections on the bookmobile itself. Thank goodness he also happens to be good company. He has a great sense of humor and an infectious laugh, and I really enjoy chatting with him during the breaks in the schedule. Kudos to you, Matthew, for all that you do to help me keep the outreach program running smoothly. Thank you!

Sign of the Times?

2009-02-27T06:55:00.000-08:00

I just launched my monthly circulation report to the powers that be: last month saw a 10% increase in borrowed items. My boss seems pleased with the continuing upward trends regarding patrons served and materials circulated. Initially, I thought perhaps more people were taking advantage of the Outreach Program because of the tanking economy. People are tightening their belts, staying home and enjoying low-cost or no-cost recreational activities. The library is an excellent source for free entertainment: books, CDs, and DVDs are great tools to keep folks occupied and entertained. Remember, though, I work with the elderly. Most seniors tend to stay in regardless of the economic climate. I began to think in earnest about the reasons for the higher numbers. As much as I would like to assume credit for my winning personality (wink, wink) and excellent customer service skills as the driving forces of those ascending numbers, I am but a small part of the equation. The real reason the numbers continue to rise is attributed to a simple matter of inclusion. The seniors are now part of a larger circle, one that extends beyond the four walls of their apartments. The Outreach moniker applies not only to the library program but also the to seniors themselves. They are getting involved in their residential communities. Many of them have started book clubs or coffee klatches. They look forward to discussions about books and current events. They recommend reading materials to one another and to me, too. The Bookmobile is a treasured community service for our elderly city population, and I feel privileged to administer an outreach program that fosters such positive growth among its participants.

War, Romance, and Murder

2009-02-04T06:29:00.000-08:00

January was an exceptionally busy month for me in Bookmobileland. Two new stops provided many new patrons and many more challenges to my fraying memory with regard to preferred genres and authors. For the most part, my male patrons prefer non-fiction work: they enjoy stories of war and/or presidential courage in times of adversity, biographies, and travel. The overwhelming majority of my female patrons prefer romantic fiction penned by Debbie Macomber, Fern Michaels, Nora Roberts, Danielle Steel, and Wanda Brunstetter. I work with two ladies who are quite taken with the work of Susan Wiggs: I managed to procure a copy of Just Breathe for both of them, and they were beside themselves with excitement and appreciation. One of them actually caressed the book jacket and murmured fondly, "I do love to read Susan Wiggs." I do have one female patron who reads non-fiction exclusively. She's such a gem -- 90 years old (yes, ninety) and a voracious reader of true crime novels. She prefers crimes of passion, specifically those dealing with spouses. When she felt she had exhausted the supply of interesting tales in that subject, she requested that I choose similar material. I delved into serial killer profiles and forensic evidence explanations. Initially, I was fearful of offending her delicate sensibilities with such subject matter, but she has a strong constitution and was pleased with my selections. I make sure I peruse these books, too, in preparation for the discussion upon my return trip. The next time I see her, we'll talk about Patricia Cornwall's assertion that Jack the Ripper's true identity was that of renown artist Walter Sickert. If anyone would like to suggest a true crime novel this lady would enjoy, please comment.

2008-12-23T09:19:00.000-08:00

This writing is my third attempt to publish a December post. I have a story I want to tell, but the right words have eluded me thus far. Very rarely is this wordsmith at a loss for verbiage, but every time I try to write about my new patron "Julia" (her name has been changed to protect her privacy), I am rendered speechless -- or wordless, if you will. Perhaps the third time will be the proverbial charm...

...I met Julia last week. She is a resident at one of the senior housing facilities I visit, but I have never seen her in the community room before. She was passing through, and she stopped suddenly when she saw my display. I smiled at her and asked her if she wanted to browse the collection, but she shook her head and looked away. I watched her scan the room once, twice, her disappointment palpable . She took two steps to her right and became awash in relief as she located her target, a kindly staff member. Julia began gesturing wildly to get the woman's attention, and when she did, her face lit up like a Christmas tree. "Jenny" came over to my table and introduced me to Julia, who is hearing impaired. Jenny has known Julia for several years and is able to communicate Julia's wants and needs quite effectively. She explained to me that Julia also does not speak English fluently; she is a native Spanish speaker. My confidence did not wane whatsoever, as I can speak passable Spanish, and I also know enough American Sign Language to make conversation. As I relayed this pertinent information to Jenny, she informed me that Julia does not read lips nor does she sign. Undeterred, I decided to write down necessary information in Spanish, at which point I discovered that Julia's vision is also impaired; she has difficulty seeing even large print. What could I possibly do for this woman? She couldn't read books or listen to CDs or books on tape. As I silently pondered how I could make my library materials accessible for her, Jenny told me that Julia does enjoy watching DVDs but can only do so when her relatives visit and bring them to her. The communication issue that had been a lifelong stumbling block was about to be overcome in this instance. I gave Jenny a library card application to fill out on Julia's behalf. I motioned for Julia to stand next to me, and one by one, I showed her every DVD I had in the crate. An excited shake of the head meant yes, a waggle of her index finger meant no. I learned that Julia likes period-pieces and anything Shakespearean. She also likes animals and travel. We laughed and smiled as we went through the DVDs. No words were exchanged between us, but we had a lovely conversation indeed. Julia was thrilled to have a library card and patronize the collection with the other residents. After I entered Julia's record in the computer and checked out her items, she clasped my hand, pointed to the DVDs and smiled broadly. That was the loudest "thank you" I've ever heard. Jenny said that I made Julia's day. As Julia left, she blew me a kiss. In this season of giving and receiving, that kind and sincere gesture is one of the best gifts to be afforded to me.

Through Rain, Sleet, or Snow

2008-11-20T07:11:00.000-08:00

Routines are wonderful things; I crave order and structure in all facets of my life, so it's no surprise to those who know me that I have developed quite an efficient routine for my bookmobile travels. My crates are always well-stocked and packed efficiently, my hold requests are at the ready, and I keep supplies on hand to protect my precious cargo from inclement weather. One would think all this preparation would lend itself to smooth sailing all around...one should think again. How to properly brave the elements was an issue I failed to consider effectively. The wind and the rain are mercilessly unforgiving to a thin plastic kitchen garbage bag acting as a tarp. Two seconds of gale force winds and it's bye-bye, plastic bag. Posters and brochures blow away like escaped balloons. Paperback books are like sponges; they absorb a large quantity of water very quickly. Some sympathetic folks have helped me chase papers and secure (and I use that term loosely [yes, pun intended]) yet another garbage bag atop the crates. I do my best to contain the situation quickly, and I actually appreciate that I'm providing comic relief to bystanders as I'm flailing about, admonishing the inanimate objects as if they are naughty children. These experiences have made me realize that no matter how carefully I plan, there's always potential for plans to go awry. I just have to adapt to the environment - that and invest in a heavy duty tarp with grommets. Let it snow - I'm ready!

Welcome Aboard

2008-10-30T07:06:00.000-07:00

"I'm so glad you're here." How many times do we get to hear that statement uttered in sincerety? I've had the pleasure of hearing patrons tell me that several times this past week as I undertook my maiden voyage on the bookmobile. I catch a ride and travel the route with the esteemed bookmobile coordinator: he assists patrons that come aboard the vehicle while I venture into the facilities (with crates of books and A/V materials) to assist patrons who are unable to access the bookmobile. The elderly citizens of Reading are some of the nicest and most enthusiastic folks around. I enjoy watching the anticipation on their faces when I arrive as I unload the books and make my displays. They discuss genre, plot, and character development among themselves as they peruse the collection. When I have a book that someone has been looking forward to reading, the unabashed squeal of delight upon discovery of its presence is a welcome sound to my ears. When I recommend a book and I am thanked for finding a new author to follow, I'm deeply humbled. I knew going into this position that I would enjoy interacting with elderly residents and assisting them in choosing books to read, but what I didn't realize is how profoundly touched I would be by these patrons' recognition and appreciation of the invaluable community service offered them courtesy of the library. The materials they borrow educate, challenge, mystify, and entertain them. They understand the joy, wonder, and knowledge gained from reading. Despite age, poor health, or immobility, these smart, vital people are able to go anywhere, be anything, and feel everything through books. One lady, her weathered canvas tote bag heavy with Harlequins, summed up this notion very nicely by telling me, "Reading books keeps me going."

One Month Later...

2008-09-26T08:24:00.000-07:00

I can't believe a month has passed since my introductory post. I have been busy training on the computer system, attending meetings, visiting the elderly housing sites, and planning my marketing approach. Many thanks are extended to the staff that helped me settle in and provided me with information and suggestions. I unpacked and shelved the first shipment of new materials. The branch manager did a fantastic job ordering such a diverse collection. I cannot wait until these books are released into circulation; the patrons will have so many exciting genres from which to choose. The DVDs are appealing, too. We have TV series such as Meerkat Manor and Planet Earth, classic films such as The Grapes of Wrath and Rio Bravo, contemporary movies that include The Other Boleyn Girl and Becoming Jane as well as several travel and historical series. There really is something for everyone. I should be in the sites in about three weeks, so my next post will detail my travels through and experiences at the different facilities.

A brief introduction

2008-08-26T09:36:00.000-07:00

Hi. I'm Leslie, and I'm so pleased to be the new bookmobile assistant for the City of Reading Bookmobile (part of the Reading Public Library). I will be riding along with Matthew, the Bookmobile Coordinator, in order to visit several elderly housing sites in the city. I will leave the Bookmobile at each site and "carry" materials into the buildings for those residents who are unable or unwilling to enter the Bookmobile. I am breathless with excitement as I prepare to share my love of books and reading with new and returning patrons. This blog is in its infancy and will be so until we post our fall schedule and include new materials in our collections. The sky is the limit in this new venture, and we intend to reach for the stars!