Bio-Med Library Public Services Blog

FYI....

This event will require some access challenges for those coming to campus on that morning.

For approximately one hour around 7:30 a.m., the only access to East River Road Garage will be from the east and exiting traffic will be forced to the west across the Washington Avenue Bridge.

The inaugural Goldy's Run at TCF Bank Stadium on the University of Minnesota campus includes a 10 mile run, a 5K and a kid's 1K run.

The various race courses will take participants through campus and the surrounding streets with all events finishing inside TCF Bank Stadium before 10:30 a.m.

For more information on this event, please visit the website: http://www.goldysrun.com/.

Posted by aho at 8:50 PM | Permalink | Comments (1) | TrackBacks (0)

A summary of CCLRT impacts to campus bus routes from May 2011 to 2014:

Campus Connector

* East Bank stops closed at McNamara, Moos Tower, & Coffman.
* East Bank stop added at Pleasant Circle by Eddy & Nicholson Halls.

WB Connector from St Paul

* Stop at Mariucci/TCF Stadium as currently
* Turn right (west) onto 4th St
* Turn left (south) onto 15th Ave
* Cross Univ Ave to become Pleasant St (new stop at Pleasant Circle)
* Continue south on Pleasant St past back of Walter Lib
* Turn right (west) onto Wash Ave to go over bridge
* Stop at Willey Hall (because it does not return over Wash Ave bridge - see below)

EB Connector from West Bank

* Goes through 5 Corners area and goes north over 10th Ave bridge (the one that didn't fall down)
* Turn right (east) onto University Ave
* Stop at Pleasant Circle
* Continue east on Univ Ave until turn left (north) on Oak St
* Turn right to continue on Oak St to current stop at Mariucci/TCF
* Onto St Paul as usual

Back to the bad news/good news theme, some better news is that the East Bank Circulator will be re-routed closer to AHC.

East Bank Circulator

* Stop at McNamara as currently, heading south on Oak St
* Continue south on Oak St
* Turn right (west) onto Delaware St
* Turn left (south) onto Harvard St
* Stop on Harvard at Masonic (closest stop to Diehl)
* Continue south on Harvard St and turn right (west) onto East River Pkwy
* Stop on ERP at Comstock Hall
* Turn right (east) onto Arlington St
* Turn left (north) onto Pleasant St
* Stop at Pleasant Circle (transfer to WB & EB Connectors)
* Turn right (east) onto Univ Ave
* Turn left (north) onto 23rd Ave
* Loop around TCF Stadium to start anew

PTS says it will add bigger buses to EB Circulator (currently a van), and add frequency to route (during semesters).

Posted by aho at 2:48 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

During the Winter Closure the following building and services will have LIMITED HOURS AND DAYS OF OPERATION:

* Boynton Health Services East Bank Clinic: The Clinic will be open with limited services on December 28, 29, and 30, but closed on University holidays and weekends during the University Closure. Boynton's St. Paul location will be closed during the closure. Click here for more information (http://www.bhs.umn.edu/index.htm).

* The University Recreation Center: The Rec Center will be open on non-University holidays during the closure as follows: Dec. 26 (12-5), Dec. 28, 29, 30 (10-4), Jan. 2 (12-5). Click here for more information (http://www.recsports.umn.edu/)

* Residence Halls: Yudof Hall, Wilkins Hall, University Village, Middlebrook Hall, Centennial Hall and Sanford Hall will remain open. Click here for more information (http://www.housing.umn.edu/index.html)

* Parking and Transportation Services : During the closure event facilities will be staffed during athletic events. Contract parking will be available, but facilities will not be staffed. Campus bus services (e.g., Campus Connector) will not be available during the closure. Click here for more information (http://www1.umn.edu/pts/)

* Technology and Computing: All computer labs will be closed. Email and Internet services are expected to function normally. OIT Technology Help (612) 301-4357 (on campus, dial 1-HELP) will be closed. (However, from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. emergency service outages can be reported to this number). If you forget your University Internet ID password you can reset it at https://www.umn.edu/dirtools

* Athletics: Events scheduled to take place during the closure will occur as scheduled. Click here for more information (http://www.gophersports.com/)

For information about the University Winter Closure click here (http://www1.umn.edu/twincities/faculty-staff/closure/)

Posted by aho at 4:44 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Its that time of year again....FINALS!!!

Starting on Wednesday December 8 at close (aka 11pm) and continuing until Wednesday December 22, every night when the desk closes we will have an extra monitor on duty from close until 3am over in the stacks side of 2nd! The computer area on 2nd will stay open 24/7!

This extra monitor will be guarding the stacks area on 2nd so that we can have extra seating for students during the study week and finals week, while at the same time blocking off the upper levels of the library.

So you will need to the following at closing:

1. Get shift report and demographic sheet for extra stacks monitor. They need to have their own sheets, for their own sections of the library.

2. Get extra stacks monitor a table and chair and place table in front of stairs door on 2nd. Close the stairs door (it does not lock) after all students from upper levels are out (the monitor may do this, but ask). Extra stacks monitor will sit in front of stairs door to prevent anyone from going up the stairs.

3. Get yellow caution tape and block off elevator on 2nd and the stairs door. This will prevent anyone from going up to the other levels. Yellow caution tape is on my desk.

4. Lock glass doors (you know, the little forked key), but do not close doors. Inform the monitor doors are locked and ready to go for when they close at 3am.

5. NO TURNING OFF THE front 2nd floor HANDICAP DOOR during finals. We will keep it going, as we will be open 24/7 during finals. So the HANDICAP DOOR stays on from Wednesday December 8 until we close the library on Wednesday December 22 at 11pm.

With our new study finals schedule, we might have new monitors working. You will need to help them.

FYI...when we close the library on Thursday December 24 @ 8pm the entire library will close until Monday January 3, 2011.

Finally, if you open the library at 6:45 Mon - Friday, 9am on Sat and 11:45am on Sunday make sure that there is a monitor here. They are schedule and being paid to work here in the library until the library is officially open: so 7am, 9am, and 12 noon. If they do not say or they are not here when you arrive you need to let me know ASAP!!!

Good luck on your finals!

Post to the blog!
Melissa

Posted by aho at 9:19 PM | Permalink | Comments (10) | TrackBacks (0)

Hi All,

In the past we have been a little lax on overriding items when people have blocks, but not anymore. We are going to toughen up and be consistent with Wilson and the other libraries.

So we are NO longer overriding blocks.

Here is our official policy: Blocks: If a patron has $10.00 or more on their library account, a block is automatically placed. This prevents the patron from checking out any materials at the affiliated library. No campus will remove or override blocks from another library.

So if there is a block on someone's account you cannot override it for headphones, markers, course reserve, regular reserve, etc. Please refer the person to the library that is stopping them. If its money please feel free to offer them the choice of paying for anything via cash, check, credit card, or their student account.

If you have any questions please ask.

Post to the blog.

Thanks,
Melissa

Posted by aho at 7:13 PM | Permalink | Comments (7) | TrackBacks (0)

Hi All,

In case you are asked directions, this event is taking place on Tuesday Nov 16:

Work/Life Balance Speaker Panel
November 16, 2010; 12:15-1:15p
MOOS Health Sciences Tower, Room 2-650

Join Dr. Carolyn Torkelson, Dr. Gretchen Rasmusson, and Ruth Rounds,
MA, Founder of Life Dimensions, Inc. as they share their experiences
and expertise in balancing a career in medicine with raising a family.
Co-sponsored by the Women in Medicine Student Group. Light lunch
provided.

Posted by aho at 3:42 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

This Saturday October 23, there will be both a Gophers Football game, Hockey game, and President Obama will be on campus (at least the East Bank and at Northrup). So be prepared for issues with parking, people, and some general disruption.

Also please note that Walter Library and the Math Library will be closed on Saturday October 23 due to the presidential visit.

Computer issues:
"As part of the 2010 visit of President Barack Obama to the University of Minnesota, Guest Wireless access will be unavailable on Saturday, October 23. A notice informing users of the temporary service disruption will be posted on the Guest Wireless login page."

List of activities and other official information
http://www1.umn.edu/news/misc/obama-visit-258606.html

Melissa

Posted by aho at 6:25 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

FYI...there might be some interruptions with the Wiley databases.

Wiley Online Library Site Maintenance Notice

Dear Customer:

This message is to alert you of an interruption in the online service for Wiley Online Library.
Due to essential site maintenance, access may be interrupted during the indicated date and time.

DATE:
Saturday - October 16, 2010

TIME:
- beginning --
7:00 am New York
12:00 noon London / (11:00 GMT)
19:00 Singapore

DURATION:
up to 2 hours

Posted by aho at 5:31 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Hi All,

I have noticed on the time cards, that some people are arriving a few minutes too late. Remember you are late if you are MORE THAN 5 minutes late!!! See policy below from the student Employee Handbook if you have questions. So instead of speaking to you unofficially, I will now start to track and send out emails if you are MORE than 5 minutes late and it will count as one half absence. If you are late and have a good excuse (class, doctors note, etc) you need to send me an email.

http://blog.lib.umn.edu/biomdoc/access_services/student-employee-handbook.html

Lateness and Missed Punches Policy

Late to work is defined as more than 5 minutes past the scheduled starting time of your shift. Work missed due to lateness or leaving early (without permission) will count as one half of an absence (2 late arrivals = 1 absence). Students who forget to clock in/out (i.e. miss a punch) will be counted as late. If you think you have mispunched, you MUST immediately inform a supervisor and have them initial your time card with the correct in/out time, otherwise you may be counted as absent for the shift.

Posted by aho at 6:44 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

GAMEDAY SHUTTLES

Gopher Football Shuttles will move patrons from outlying points on campus to the stadium and back after the game. One route will transport people from West Bank to the stadium with stops at the Carlson School of Management (West Bank), then Coffman Union/Northrop Mall (East Bank) and TCF Bank Stadium. A St. Paul route will carry riders from the State Fairgrounds Lot to the stadium. In addition, the Campus Connector will operate on its weekend schedule.

2010 HOME FOOTBALL SCHEDULE (7 SATURDAYS)

Saturday, September 11 vs South Dakota @ 11 am
Saturday, September 18 vs Southern California @ 2:30 pm
Saturday, September 25 vs Northern Illinois @ 7:30 pm
Saturday, October 2 vs Northwestern @ 11 am
Saturday, October 23 vs Penn State @ TBD
Saturday, October 30 vs Ohio State @ 7 pm
Saturday, November 27 vs Iowa @ TBD

Posted by aho at 2:43 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Posted by Melissa Aho at 3:24 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

We are trying something new this final week. Starting on Friday May 7 at close (aka 7pm) and continuing until Saturday May 15, every night when the desk closes we will have an extra monitor on duty from close until 3am over in the stacks side of 2nd!

This extra monitor will be guarding the stacks area on 2nd so that we can have extra seating for students during finals, while at the same time blocking off the upper levels of the library.

So you will need to the following at closing:

1. Get demographic sheet for extra monitor

2. Get extra monitor a table and chair and place table in front of stairs door on 2nd. Close the stairs door (it does not lock) after all students from upper levels are out (the monitor may do this, but ask). Extra monitor sitting in front of stairs door will prevent anyone from going up the stairs.

3. Get yellow caution tape and block off elevator. This will prevent anyone from going up to the other levels.

4. Lock glass doors (you know, the little forked key), but do not close doors. Inform the monitor doors are locked and ready to go for when he closes at 3am.

5. NO TURNING OFF THE front 2nd floor HANDICAP DOOR during finals. We will keep it going, as we will be open 24/7 during finals.

With finals, we might have new monitors working. You will need to help them.

FYI...when we close at our normal time on Saturday May 15 @6pm the entire library will close. No extended hours on Saturday May 15 and for the rest of the summer.

Good luck on your finals!

Post to the blog!
Melissa

Posted by Melissa Aho at 9:05 PM | Permalink | Comments (9) | TrackBacks (0)

I would like everyone to read this:

"If you anticipate an absence from a scheduled shift (you will be out of town, etc.), you must complete and post a Substitute Slip. You will remain responsible for working that shift until someone else signs up for your shift. You may agree to cover someone else's shift only if you have been trained for the duties of that shift. Once you agree to cover a shift, you become responsible for that shift and must find another substitute if you subsequently cannot work a shift you signed up for. Provided you find a substitute to cover you shift, you will not be counted absent. There is no limit to how many times your shift can be covered by a substitute."

http://blog.lib.umn.edu/biomdoc/access_services/student-employee-handbook.html

Everyone is responsible for finding people to cover their own shifts. From now on, I will post emails on Sundays and Thursdays (or when I feel its necessary) of open shifts, but I will no longer be going around and asking people to cover shifts. This is your responsibility.

Please post to the blog, that you understand this policy which has been in place for years.
Melissa

Posted by Melissa Aho at 8:08 PM | Permalink | Comments (8) | TrackBacks (0)

JOURNAL TITLE COUNTING ON FOR March 7-15
--Several Important Reminders--
Please, ALL READ, Pages AND Deskers:

For the next week-plus (Sunday, March 7-Monday, March 15) we will be recording the number of volumes and issues of journals that we handle in shelving by title in online databases. We've done this before--but everyone, including the desk staff, should understand this process and desk staff may need to help out, especially now that we have fewer pages --so I will put the bulk of this memo below the cut, where anyone who needs a refresher should read.

Please record your initials as an indication that you've read and understand this memo. (IF you're not sure how to do that, come and ask me or another staff member to show you how to do so. Any of the desk students probably knows how to do this as well). This is also a good opportunity to record any questions or comments you have about this process.
All pages should be inputting each journal volume (and any unbound issues with the library barcodes--there are a few, mostly copy 2's) into the in-house use window before the volumes get shelved for the next week. Be sure to sign in with your Aleph account. Each volume must be scanned and recorded in the database on one of the computers at the service desk--most likely the check-in computer on the Ref. side of the service desk, but the regular Circ stations will work just fine--and when the Circ staff are doing this, may be preferred. Here are the steps to follow, subject to clarification over the next few days.

Continue reading "JOURNAL TITLE COUNTING ON FOR March 7-15" »

Posted by David Lenander at 7:43 PM | Permalink | Comments (7) | TrackBacks (0)

JOURNAL TITLE COUNTING ON FOR Nov. 29-Dec. 21
--Several Important Reminders--
Please, ALL READ, Pages AND Deskers:

For the next three weeks-plus (Sunday, Nov. 29-Monday, Dec. 21) we will be recording the number of volumes and issues of journals that we handle in shelving by title in online databases. Except for three of you, we've done this before--but everyone, including the desk staff, should understand this process and desk staff may need to help out, especially now that we have fewer pages --so I will put the bulk of this memo below the cut, where anyone who needs a refresher should read.

Please record your initials as an indication that you've read and understand this memo. (IF you're not sure how to do that, come and ask me or another staff member to show you how to do so. Any of the desk students probably knows how to do this as well). This is also a good opportunity to record any questions or comments you have about this process.

Continue reading "JOURNAL TITLE COUNTING ON FOR Nov. 29-Dec. 21" »

Posted by David Lenander at 6:43 PM | Permalink | Comments (13) | TrackBacks (0)

State Of Minnesota Too Polite To Ask For Federal Funding

Posted by Patrick Maracle at 3:21 PM | Permalink | Comments (1) | TrackBacks (0)

With football now on campus, driving and parking will be an issue. So if you work on Saturdays this fall please be aware.

Here is a list of the days they play:

On Saturday, August 22, the Gophers will have their first audience at the new TCF Bank Stadium for their Preview Game.

The regular season game dates are:
September 12
September 19
October 3
October 10
October 31
November 7
and November 14, 2009.

Please plan ahead and allow for extra time as campus streets will be busier than usual with both vehicular and pedestrian travel.

Posted by Melissa Aho at 3:36 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Did you know you could "feed the blog" (otherwise known as posting to the blog)? You can! I'd like to encourage all of you use this as a forum for communication among yourselves, so to that end... I'm assigning it! (M'wah, hah, hah! The power is going to my head!)

Here's all you need to do:

1. Click "Feed the Blog!" over on the right.


2. Enter a title in the title field and write something in the entry field.


3. Click Save.


4. To confirm that your post indeed posted to the blog, click View Entry and then refresh the browser window.


5. Ta da! You're a published author.

So what kinds of things should you post? How 'bout updating people that you need shifts covered? Are there things that you've noticed people are forgetting to do at the desk? Do you have any ideas that would make you job easier? Get creative and get posting! I'm looking forward to what you have to say. :)

Thanks,
Emily

Posted by Emily Reimer at 10:20 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

As some of you know, HSL has a softball team called the Infomaniacs. A few of you have asked that I keep you all up to date on the season as it progresses. Here is the first in a weekly series of updates. The 2009 season started with a shot heard 'round the East Bank!! Steve Llewellyn hit the first home run of the season in what I believe was his first at bat of the first game. His blast lead to an excellent night at both the plate and in the field for all players. The Infomaniacs won both ends of the evenings double header by the scores of 13-6 and 16-6and now have a record of 2-0.

If anyone is interested in coming out and watching a game, we play every Tuesday at 6:00 and 7:10. All games are played on the Bierman fields, which are north of 5th street and east of 15th ave in Dinkytown, behind the football complex and next to the softball stadium. Games run through the end of July with playoffs scheduled for the first week of August. Also, anyone interested in playing, the roster is always open. I can add active student, staff and faculty with a UCard at anytime.

--
Christopher Herzberg
Cataloging/Bindery Assistant
Health Sciences Libraries
Bio-Medical Library
325A Diehl Hall
612-626-9185

Posted by Emily Reimer at 9:04 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

If you have food in the break room fridge, please label it by Friday May 29th at 3 p.m. , or risk having it thrown out!

Thanks,
Emily

Posted by Emily Reimer at 11:45 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Hey folks, starting last week some of us started getting an "exceeded webmail quota" message. This is another in a long line of spam or phishing attempts. I wouldn't expect they are going to stop anytime soon, so--in honor of the new Star Trek movie--remember the Prime Directive (at least for e-mail): Real U of M notices will NEVER ask you to give your user ID and password in that manner.

These messages are getting more sophisticated, but in the end they want you
to give up the same thing: your ID and password. If you give that up, the U
of M security team will disable your account, and it takes a bit of
bureaucratic wrangling to get it reactivated, mostly because they sometimes
are short staffed and aren't around when you want them to be. So, if you're
tempted to respond, please resist and ask IT first.

Live long and prosper.

Peter Weinhold
IT Manager
East Zone Computer Support
University Libraries
Health Sciences Libraries
316 Diehl Hall
505 Essex St SE
University of Minnesota
Minneapolis, MN 55455
weinh005@umn.edu
612-626-4185

Posted by Emily Reimer at 11:01 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Hi All,

Just an fyi that when we close at 6pm on Saturday May 16 (aka this Saturday) we will be totally closing down the library. There will be no more extended hours until August. Also Sun-Thur starting this Sunday we will be closing at 10pm, Fri and Sat after this week closing is at 6pm.

So starting on Saturday when you close the library:

-Make sure that the security monitors close and leaves the library at the same time you do
-You both should be checking the doors on 2nd to make sure that they are both locked (pull on both of them to make sure they are both locked)
-Make sure that the handicap switch is turned off on 2nd from the outside.

Post to the blog that you have read this!

Thanks,
Melissa

Posted by Melissa Aho at 4:08 PM | Permalink | Comments (7) | TrackBacks (0)

Congratulations to PJ and Megan L. for winning the IADS Student and Staff Appreciation prize drawing! Each will receive a University of Minnesota ceramic mug. Woohoo!

Posted by Emily Reimer at 10:18 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Hi All,

* 314 - cleanup is underway, expected to be ready to re-occupy on Thursday of this week. Peter has made arrangements for Eric Forbis & Michael Winters to help LEIS staff with IT re-connects at 1pm on Thu.
* 325 - furniture has been disassembled and removed, carpet tear-out started this morning. Floor tiles under the carpet will be abated and removed.Expect 2-3 weeks until ready to re-occupy. Carpet tile samples for new installation expected as early as today for our shopping pleasure. Intereum will offer design help to reconfigure Tech Services furniture differently when ready to go back in
* 325A - Katherine will move back in to her office, entry via 316.
* Staff lounge will be unavailable until further notice, may be the full 2-3 weeks.
* Mail drop offs in process of being re-arranged: Library mail tub & Minitex mail tub are now at Service Desk. USPO & Campus mail drop off currently just inside back doors to 325, plans to move to 314 when ready. All USPO mail, campus mail, courier mail & Fed Ex pickup out 318 & 319 should be back to normal this afternoon.
* Dehumidifiers and fans were taken away this morning.
* 330 (IHI) - Sheetrock in hallway by elevator should be replaced this afternoon or early tomorrow. Once that happens, we will open up 3rd level library entry again.

--
Steven Llewellyn
Head, Public Services
Bio-Medical Library
University of Minnesota
(p) 612.625.7940
(f) 612.626.2454

UPDATE:
Until further notice, the air circulators have been turned off unless the air circulators around 325 can be isolated. Expect the library to be a bit stuffy.

Katherine

Posted by Emily Reimer at 1:40 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

FYI - the library's air temperature is being kept low to inhibit mold growth due to flooding. Please explain this to any patrons who express discomfort and apologize for the inconvenience. Thanks, Emily

Posted by Emily Reimer at 2:08 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Hi All,
On Friday, April 17, at approximately 10:30am, a cooling hose burst on the 4th level in the mechanical room by the interior elevator. Water from the burst hose first flooded that room, and then cascaded through the floor onto level 3, and then through that floor onto level 2. No collections were damaged, but water damage to staff offices was extensive. Here are some details:

Level 4
Water on carpet by interior elevator hallway and into north aisle of stacks - carpet dried and dehumidified over the weekend - no further action needed.

Level 3
314 - water on carpet and ceiling tiles damaged - carpet dried and dehumidified over the weekend, does not need to be replaced. 3 wet furniture panels dried and do not need to be replaced.
Staff relocated - Liz & Anne to 301, Wayne to 305, Peter to Magrath.

316 - water on carpet - dried over the weekend and does not need to be replaced.

325 - extensive water damage to carpet and ceiling tiles - will need to be replaced. Furniture panels OK - do not need to be replaced.
Technical Services staff relocated to 350A. All TS staff items to be removed from 325 by 5pm today so furniture disassembly can begin.

325A - minor impact to room - dried over the weekend. Carpet and furniture does not need to be replaced. Katherine might be relocated as work in 325 commences.

330 - IHI extensive water damage to carpet and ceiling tiles at front of room. Carpet dried and dehumidified over the weekend, does not need to be replaced. Sheetrock in hallway to elevator had water damage, will be replaced up to 24 inches from floor.

Library lobby - water on carpet - dried and dehumidified over the weekend, does not need to be replaced.

Level 2
Public area outside 279 - minor water on carpet - dried and does not need to be replaced. Some ceiling tiles need to be replaced.

Open Access computer stations - some ceiling tiles need to be replaced.

287A - minor water damage to carpet - dried and does not need to be replaced. Sheetrock by doorway needs to be replaced. Some ceiling tiles need to be replaced.

278B - minor water damage - dried and does not need to be replaced. Some ceiling tiles need to be replaced.

These are the details as they are known at this hour. I'll give an update when more timelines are known about the cleanup to 314 and the reconstruction of 325.

--
Steven Llewellyn
Head, Public Services
Bio-Medical Library
University of Minnesota
(p) 612.625.7940
(f) 612.626.2454

Posted by Emily Reimer at 12:29 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Flood Update: BIS, ILL and Minitex will all be using the interior library elevators. So will the info brokers (Tim, Ryan) that are here everyday; however, we are going to try to minimize the use of the affected 3rd areas by other library traffic.

Please continue to assist patrons who require elevator access to the third floor by paging materials for them, as cases arise. Shelvers will be carrying walkie-talkies, and there will be a walkie-talkie at the desk to page them, as well.

OneSearch Update: The OneSearch article search engine (which is also the Articles tab in MNCAT Plus) is currently down. Please send patrons with questions to the Reference Desk.

Please post your initials to the blog, and let us know if you have any questions.

Thanks,
Emily

Posted by Emily Reimer at 9:19 AM | Permalink | Comments (4) | TrackBacks (0)

On Friday afternoon, a cooling main burst, causing a flood of epic proportions in Diehl Hall. As a result, the third floor of the library where Technical Services, Room 314 and the IHI are located will require some tender-loving care (new carpet, etc.).

We will not be allowing people into the affected areas, which include the library elevator. Please help anyone who needs assistance, or indicates that they have a disability, by paging any requested items.

Thanks for your help!
Emily

Posted by Emily Reimer at 5:11 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Check it out! (But not at the desk, please... I know, I'm a buzzkill.)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dF6Yh-SlIws
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2n-JUzra49g
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y4XWy-1WtsM
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KhU7rJSXgIA

Emily

Posted by Emily Reimer at 10:36 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Hi All, To publicize next Wednesday's ACRL award ceremony at Walter Library, the UL Communication Office is putting out posters and balloons attached to sandwich boards in front of the 5 main library buildings. At Bio-Med, they will be placed at the tunnel entrance on level 2, unless it is a gorgeous blue-sky day in which case I may place them in the plaza entrance on level 3.

Although we are trying to design the posters to make it clear that the ceremony/cupcakes will be in Walter Library that day, I imagine that some people won't notice that and will just see the word "cupcakes" and head inside the building where they see the poster and balloons. Please make sure that all Public Services desk providers know to refer people to Walter Library to join in the celebration. And mark it as a Directional transaction on Desk Tracker :-) .

--
Steven Llewellyn
Head, Public Services
Bio-Medical Library
University of Minnesota
(p) 612.625.7940
(f) 612.626.2454

Posted by Emily Reimer at 10:04 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Twin Cities campus students, faculty and staff:

After testing the potable water in Moos Tower, the Phillips Wangensteen Building and Diehl Hall, the University is lifting water precautions in those buildings. Appointments at the University’s dental clinics will resume on Monday.

Recent water discoloration and odor was the result of seasonal maintenance being performed on one of the University’s chiller systems that cools campus buildings in spring and summer. Testing showed there were trace amounts of contaminants at levels not considered to be a health risk. We’ve had water precautions in place since Wednesday and canceled appointments at the dental clinic. Facilities Management staff has been flushing the system to remove any residual contaminants.

For the occupants of the three buildings: It’s always good practice to let the water run until it gets hot or cold before using it and we certainly encourage people to do that in this case as well.

Minnesota Department of Health personnel assisted University staff in testing and analysis of the drinking water and concurred that water in these buildings is safe for all uses.

A set of frequently asked questions will be available soon on Boynton Health Service's website at http://www.bhs.umn.edu.

Thank you for your cooperation and patience.

Posted by Emily Reimer at 5:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

JOURNAL TITLE COUNTING ON FOR April 5-20
--Several Important Reminders--
Please, ALL READ, Pages AND Deskers:

Here are a couple of points that weren't in the previous memos, but should be noted:
1. When we count the journal titles, we would prefer not to count the items being reshelved from Technical Services, for instance, items returned from the bindery. These don't represent actual usage in the library, so place a "counted" slip in any trucks from Tech Services (but not trucks of materials returned to the back area of technical services in the daily deliveries as these do require counting). Similarly, materials from the interlibrary and document delivery services require counting, but BIS/InfoNOW staff do their own counting, in-house. So, trucks from BIS should be given "counted" tabs, and NOT counted again.

This is not true for our own Interlibrary Loan and Document delivery materials or for the materials from Minitex (the people in room 279). Their trucks SHOULD be counted in the same stream as the regular materials. And correspondingly, materials used by Reference or Circ staff are mostly employed in the process of helping the public, so these should normally go into the counting stream, unlike the new arrivals from Tech Services.

2. If you can't find an unbound journal issue in the FIleMaker database, it may need to be added to the database. Leave it with David or put it on his chair.

3. If things won't work (you can't get the FileMaker database to start, Aleph just freezes and won't take the barcode input, whatever). please do NOT just skip the process. Talk to David or Steve or someone about getting help. Likewise, if you're not sure, or something isn't explained fully enough in this memo, please stop and ask for clarification. This is an important process or we wouldn't be spending time on it in the first place.

For the next couple of weeks-plus (Sunday, April 5-Monday, April 20) we will be recording the number of volumes and issues of journals that we handle in shelving by title in online databases. Hopefully you just read the memo a couple of weeks ago--so I will put the bulk of this memo below the cut, where anyone who needs a refresher should read.

Please record your initials as an indication that you've read and understand this memo. (IF you're not sure how to do that, come and ask me or another staff member to show you how to do so. Any of the desk students probably knows how to do this as well). This is also a good opportunity to record any questions or comments you have about this process.

Continue reading "JOURNAL TITLE COUNTING ON FOR April 5-20" »

Posted by David Lenander at 11:14 AM | Permalink | Comments (7) | TrackBacks (0)

Check it: http://blogs.citypages.com/food/2009/03/free_punch_pizz_4.php

Posted by Emily Reimer at 12:58 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

JOURNAL TITLE COUNTING ON FOR March 8-16, April 5-20
Please, ALL READ, Pages AND Deskers:

For the next week-plus (Sunday, March 8-Monday, March 16) we will be recording the number of volumes and issues of journals that we handle in shelving by title in online databases. For a couple of you this may be new, and perhaps a little review doesn’t hurt any of us--so I will put the bulk of this memo below the cut, where anyone who needs a refresher should read. We will also be recording these counts during the two first full weeks of April.
All pages should be inputting each journal volume (and any unbound issues with the library barcodes--there are a few, mostly copy 2's) into the in-house use window before the volumes get shelved for the next week--and the upcoming weeks in April. Each volume must be scanned and recorded in the database on one of the computers at the service desk--most likely the check-in computer on the Ref. side of the service desk, but the regular Circ stations will work just fine--and when the Circ staff are doing this, may be preferred. Here are the steps to follow, subject to clarification over the next few days.

Continue reading "JOURNAL TITLE COUNTING ON FOR March 8-16" »

Posted by David Lenander at 4:29 PM | Permalink | Comments (12) | TrackBacks (0)

Hi Everyone,

I have a project that I want EVERYONE to work on. You will notice that on the reserve bookshelf are reems of yellow paper. Your goal/project is to cut these down into scratch paper (you can half them via tearing along the perforated line). Then store them in the drawers (the drawer has a label on it that says scratch paper).

Everyone should work on these at least once during your shift.

Please post to the blog.

Thanks,
Melissa

Posted by Melissa Aho at 10:19 PM | Permalink | Comments (8) | TrackBacks (0)

Have you ever wondered what was the name of the facilities person who is working?

Day Hours
2nd floor
• Pierre works here and elsewhere in AHC (Pierre will be retiring soon)

Night Hours
2nd floor
* Margaret works Mon-Thu
* Bob works Fri

3rd floor
* Bob works Tue-Fri
* Margaret works Mon

4th & 5th floors
* Manny works Mon-Thu
* Norm works Fri

Saturday & Sunday
* Not sure

Melissa

Posted by Melissa Aho at 7:05 PM | Permalink | Comments (3) | TrackBacks (0)

Hi all - It's a new semester, and we're updating our contact information for all of you. Please email me or Melissa with your current phone number. If you have secondary phone or email addresses, please supply those, as well. Keep reading - we've been busy posting this week! Thanks! Emily

Posted by Emily Reimer at 12:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

We'll soon be updating to Office 2007 on the Circulation computers. If you haven't yet had an opportunity to try using 2007, be aware that it's quite different from 2003. For the quick and dirty down low, check out: http://www.customguide.com/pdf/office-quick-reference-2007.pdf. As usual, let us know if you have any questions! Emily

Posted by Emily Reimer at 11:07 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

FYI - We have a problem with the barcodes that printed on bookstrips from 11/20 through today. While these barcodes can be read with a scanner in the ILLiad Client, they are causing an error message in ILLiad Web Circ: "Invalid Transaction Number 381537.0" If you see this error message while trying to check out or mark in transit an item, please type in the TN# located under the due date on the strip.

Posted by Emily Reimer at 2:17 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Just a heads up that the inside library elevator will be locked off this weekend due to the construction. It will be locked down at 5pm on Friday night until Monday morning (probably around 8am or so).

So if there is a person who is physically unable to go up to the 3rd or 4th floor, please page the item for them (if you are busy at the desk have one of the pages run up and get it).

NO one is allowed to use it. NOT students, not workers, not cleaning people, not security monitors, etc.

Thanks,
Melissa

Posted by Melissa Aho at 2:58 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Tomorrow we will be a stop on the World Usability Day Scavenger Hunt. Participants are evaluating the usability of the Gopher Way's signage and maps. Those who make it from Walter to us are entitled to candy and a StatRef pen. The candy will be dropped off at the desk around 10:00AM, and David L. will put out the pens. We are expecting the event to occur roughly from 12:30-2:00PM. Be prepared to hand out both candy and pens! If we're lucky, maybe they'll even let us have some.... :)

Thanks,
Emily

Posted by Emily Reimer at 4:32 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

JOURNAL TITLE COUNTING ON FOR Nov. 2-15, Nov. 30-Dec. 6
Please, ALL READ, Pages AND Deskers:

For the next two weeks (Sunday, Nov. 2-Saturday, Nov. 15) we will be recording the number of volumes and issues of journals that we handle in shelving by title in online databases. For one or two of you this may be new, and perhaps a little review doesn’t hurt any of us--so I will put the bulk of this memo below the cut, where desk students needn't follow, but any pages who need a refresher should read. We will also be recording these counts during the first week of December.

All pages should be inputting each journal volume (and any unbound issues with the library barcodes--there are a few, mostly copy 2's) into the in-house use window before the volumes get shelved for the next two weeks--and the upcoming week in Dec. Each volume must be scanned and recorded in the database on one of the computers at the service desk--most likely the check-in computer on the Ref. side of the service desk. Here are the steps to follow, subject to clarification over the next few days.

Continue reading "JOURNAL TITLE COUNTING ON FOR Nov. 2-15, Nov. 30-Dec. 6" »

Posted by David Lenander at 12:32 PM | Permalink | Comments (7) | TrackBacks (0)

It's time for a binder forms review. There are a lot of darn forms in the binder, and I understand that it's easy to forget everything that's in there. However, it's really important to be able to explain and use all of them, which is why we're doing the review. You've got a week.

Starting next Friday - you're going to get hit with a quiz, so be prepared! Oo-eee-ooo! And it's Halloween! Aha-ha-ha-ha-ha-ah-ah-aha-ha-ha-ha-ha!

Feeling a little punchy (can you tell?),
Emily

Posted by Emily Reimer at 11:05 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Here is the University's Student Employment policy regarding students leave of absence to vote on Election Day, link: http://www1.umn.edu/ohr/policies/governing/student/index.html. Please note the compensation differences regarding work study and non work study students on the morning of Election Day. 1. Paid Leaves of Absence Student employees are eligible for a paid leave of absence to vote in any state-wide general election or state-wide primary election, or in any election to fill a vacancy in the office of a United States senator or representative during the morning of the election day. Paid leaves to vote shall cover only those hours the employee is regularly scheduled to work and shall be reasonable in relation to voting site location and distance. As federal and state Work-Study regulations do NOT permit payment for hours not actually worked, work-study students must be granted upon request an unpaid leave of absence to vote in elections as described here. 2. General Regulations Requests for leaves of absence shall be submitted in writing to the supervisor for approval within a reasonable period of time prior to commencement of the leave.

NOTE: Please note again that Work Study student employees CANNOT be paid for this type of leave, work study students are only paid for hours they actually worked.
Another Important Note:

Minnesota Statute 204C.04, Employees Time Off to Vote, provides that:

- Only those employees who specifically request time off to vote are covered by this provision. The University is not closing down for any time.
- The amount of time off granted should be reasonable based on time needed to travel to and from the polls, register, and vote.
- The provisions of this statute only apply to working hours occurring before noon on election day.

If you need time off to vote and you work in the morning on Election Day, please send either Melissa or myself an email requesting time off. If you have any questions about requesting time off, please ask! This is a huge election, and we want to provide everyone with an opportunity to get out and make your voices heard!

Thanks,
Emily

Posted by Emily Reimer at 10:48 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Steam service to several University buildings will be shut off for up to 24 hours this weekend as Facilities Management extends utility service to the East Gateway District. The project will connect the new deep
steam tunnel to the existing campus distribution system. The shutoff will take place from *7:00 p.m. on Friday October 10 until 7:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 11.

During the outage, buildings will not have steam supported hot water, comfort cooling, radiator heat, or cleaning equipment such as autoclaves, sterilizers or cagewashers.

By beginning the project on Friday evening and working through the night, it is hoped that the impact on students, patients, faculty and staff will be minimal. We are working closely with colleges, the residence halls, the Academic Health Center and Fairview to reduce operational disruptions.

Buildings affected for the full 24 hours include:

Diehl Hall

So FYI...incase there are any disruptions.
Melissa

The duration of the shutoff will differ between buildings and areas of campus.

Posted by Melissa Aho at 5:36 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Hi All,

Please review the attendance and timecard policy and post to the blog!
-Melissa

Access Services Attendance Policies

Regular attendance is important. We need to count on you being here for your shifts on a regular basis so we can plan our schedule and budget accordingly. However, we understand that sometimes you cannot work a scheduled shift. Therefore…

Uncovered Absence Policy

If you anticipate an absence and are unable to find a substitute, please call the Sick Line (612-626-5179) and the 2nd Floor Circulation and Reserve Desk (612-626-4045). You will be allowed 3 uncovered absences each semester without penalty. During other scheduling periods (Winter/Spring Break, e.g.) you are allowed 1 uncovered absence. Please note: being out sick without a substitute counts as an uncovered absence. During semesters, after your third uncovered absence you will receive a disciplinary letter verifying your absences and informing you that you have reached the absence limit. At this point you will need to meet with your supervisor. If you are have an uncovered absence after you have reached the absence limit, you will be subject to disciplinary action, including dismissal.

If you are sick and go to the doctor, get a note documenting the visit and give it to your supervisor—in this case your absence will usually be excused.

Covered Absence Policy

If you anticipate an absence from a scheduled shift (you will be out of town, etc.), you must complete and post a Substitute Slip. You will remain responsible for working that shift until someone else signs up for your shift. You may agree to cover someone else’s shift only if you have been trained for the duties of that shift. Once you agree to cover a shift, you become responsible for that shift and must find another substitute if you subsequently cannot work a shift you signed up for. Provided you find a substitute to cover you shift, you will not be counted absent. There is no limit to how many times your shift can be covered by a substitute.

Lateness and Missed Punches Policy

“Late� to work is defined as more than 5 minutes past the scheduled starting time of your shift. Work missed due to lateness or leaving early (without permission) will count as one half of an absence (2 late arrivals = 1 absence). Students who forget to clock in/out (i.e. miss a punch) will be counted as late. If you think you have mispunched, you MUST immediately inform a supervisor and have them initial your time card with the correct in/out time, otherwise you may be counted as absent for the shift.

Timecard Rules

Please be sure to punch in and out for every shift that you work.

Check your card each time you punch in or out to be sure that you have not missed a punch. If you have missed one, take the card to your supervisor (or a person designated as back-up for your supervisor) and have them write in the missed time IN INK and initial it. DO NOT LEAVE YOUR CARD ON THEIR DESK. If you cannot find a supervisor to initial it, leave him/her a note explaining what happened and ask them to make the correction. PUT YOUR CARD BACK IN THE RACK.

If you write in missed punches, please do so in the margin, not in the center of the card where the next punch will punch over it.

The dates the timecards are pulled are posted near the time clock. If there are PUNCHES MISSING on your card on that date, YOU WILL NOT BE PAID FOR THOSE HOURS IN THAT TIME PERIOD. Your supervisor will contact you in the next two weeks and it will be added to the next time card. To sum up, if you don’t take care of missing punches, you will have to wait nearly four weeks to be paid for those hours. If your card is missing from the rack, for any reason, you will not be paid for any hours in that pay period.

YOU MAY NOT WORK MORE THAN 40 HOURS PER WEEK (a total of 80 hours per pay period). This includes ALL jobs on campus. Please be sure to monitor this as Payroll will delete any hours over 80.

You are allowed ONE 15-MINUTE BREAK FOR EVERY FOUR-HOUR SHIFT that you work. You must punch out for lunch and dinner. Please speak to your supervisor regarding what the policies are for scheduling breaks and lunches in your unit.

Paychecks are available from your supervisor after 10:00AM on the pay days as posted by the time clock. Timecards must be sign IN INK in order to pick up your check. If you work in more than one area (and have more than one timecard) you will receive one check for the total number of hours. Please be sure to SIGN ALL TIMECARDS.

Direct deposit of your check is available. Please see Arlys Totushek in the Administration Office (Room 450B) for the forms to complete or go to http://hrss.umn.edu and click Direct Deposit.

If you have any questions or if anything is unclear, please speak with your supervisor or to Arlys Totushek in the Administration Office.

Posted by Melissa Aho at 7:47 PM | Permalink | Comments (9) | TrackBacks (0)

The University Libraries are sponsoring a voter registration drive in partnership with MPIRG and making voter registration forms readily available in all Twin Cities libraries, including Bio-Med. Voter registration forms are on the 2nd floor Circulation Desk. Martha Hardy and I are the drive coordinators for the Bio-Medical Library, so please contact either of us with any general questions. If a patron has a question, please refer him or her to the Reference Desk or a supervisor. Key Procedures: * Place completed registration forms in the box on the Circulation Desk. * In order to be valid, registration cards must be signed and dated. * Do not seal the forms. * The voter registration drive must be a non-partisan effort. It is not appropriate for any staff to engage in discussion of candidates or issues with or around patrons during this registration drive. * While the University Libraries cannot dictate staff apparel, please use your best judgment about wearing political buttons or garb to work during the drive. * Please let Martha or me know if you notice that we are low on registration forms. * Every evening, the registration drop box MUST be locked up in Pat's office * Refer any patrons with questions about voting, registration, absentee ballots, etc. to the Reference Desk.

Questions? Please let us know.

Martha Hardy and Emily Reimer

Posted by Emily Reimer at 2:53 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

We are going to continue recording statistics this semester, but we will now use Desk Tracker instead of Wufoo. Desk Tracker is the system used by the rest of the University Libraries and will allow us to compare data with that of other libraries. Training will be on-going; please contact Melissa or Emily at the beginning of your shift if you have not used Desk Tracker before.

Please post your initials to indicate that you have read this post.

Thanks,
Emily

Posted by Emily Reimer at 10:19 AM | Permalink | Comments (6) | TrackBacks (0)

Hi All,

I need to make sure that you are all eligible for Fall employment. So please let me know how many credits you are taking this fall.

Post to the blog.

Thanks,
Melissa

Posted by Melissa Aho at 3:35 PM | Permalink | Comments (7) | TrackBacks (0)

As you know we have been receiving many complaints regarding kids in the library being loud, rude, running, looking at porn, etc. Well it has been decided that effective immediately ALL children under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. If they do not have one with them please ask them to leave the library and offer them a handout of our new policy (handouts are on each of the Circ desks, at Reference and a link is also on our webpage). If they say that have someone with them in the library who is their legal guardian and is 18, but they do not look like they are 18, you may ask for ID.

Please be aware that there may be a person under 18 who is taking classes here at the U. If they mention this please ask for a UCard and once they show their UCard they can stay.

Also with the construction we will be locking down the computers and anyone who does not have a x500 account (so a non-U person) will need to be logged in (more on this later). These logins and passwords will be for people doing research. If someone files a complaint about a non-U person looking at porn or playing video games you may also ask them to leave as those are NOT research activities (this is also on the new handout).

If you have any questions or are not comfortable asking someone to leave because they are underage please see me, Steve, David, Emily, Randy or Pat. Also you can ask one of the Reference Librarians - like Del, Martha, Lisa, etc.

Also if anyone gives you a hard time about this please get security or call 911.

On Saturdays you can have the Reference Librarian (for the summer its Lisa and in the fall its Katherine) on duty talk to the kids or others with inappropriate behavior.

Any questions please ask and dont forget to LOOK over the new policy handout.

Please post to the blog that you have read this.
Thanks,
Melissa

Posted by Melissa Aho at 6:08 PM | Permalink | Comments (10) | TrackBacks (0)

Construction update from Steve:

The construction project on the 2nd floor of Bio-Med will begin on Monday, August 4 in the morning and is scheduled to last through Wednesday, August 13. Here are the changes you can expect as the project starts:

* All computers in the reference area will be removed
* All tables in the reference area will be removed
* Reference Desk will be removed, reference services will be provided out of room 274 (located directly behind the current desk)
* Public access around the construction zone in the middle of the room will be maintained by "alleyways" marked by caution tape & cones:
o along the east side to computers in the Pit
o along the west side to group study rooms and reference service in room 274

While computers will be limited during this time, here are what computers will remain available on the 2nd floor:

* 24 PC's in the Pit - authentication required
* 4 PC's at the stand-up stations in front of the Circulation Desk - open (no authentication required)
* 3 PC's & 1 Mac on the other side of the glass wall to stacks - open (no authentication required)

Oh yes, expect it to be noisy from time to time. Not constantly and not jackhammers, but we'll notice.

If anyone has questions about the construction please answer them the best you can or refer them to me, Steve, David, Emily, Pat or Randy.

-Thanks,
Melissa

Posted by Melissa Aho at 6:06 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Starting Sunday night (August 3) Group Study Room 220 will be closed due to library construction. I will be placing a large sign on the door and the door will remain locked. No sign up sheets will be available for this room. It will be closed for 2 week.

Thanks,
Melissa

Posted by Melissa Aho at 2:40 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Students needed who work in "science" libraries to sit on a focus group for an initiative for the ACRL Science & Technology Section. All that is need is ONE HOUR of your time, for which you will be compensated $10 plus dinner (pizza). You will watch one or two very short YouTube videos and answer questions about the videos, and about how they find career information.

The time is this Wednesday or Thursday.

Focus Groups will be held as follows - they can just show up at:
314 Walter Library
4:15-5:15 pm
Wednesday, June 18 or
Thursday, June 19

Posted by Melissa Aho at 1:46 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

This Thursday June 19 (or rain day Friday 20) is Turtle Derby Day!

From 10am-1pm

There will be music, food, clowns, t-shirts to buy and turtle races.

The HSL is sponsoring 6 turtles this year!

# Sponsor: Technical Services
* On the Marc
* Heat 1 / 10:30 - 10:45

# Sponsor: Health Sciences Libraries Staff
* Diehl-licious
* Heart 3 / 10:45 - 11:00

# Sponsor: Vet Med
* VetMed Veronica
* Heat 3 / 11:00 - 11:15

# Sponsor: Reference Services
* Aristurtle
* Heat 3 / 11:15-11:30

# Sponsor: Health Sciences Libraries Staff
* Diehl With It
* Heat 3 / 11:30-11:45

# Sponsor: Health Sciences Staff
* QL666.C5

Posted by Melissa Aho at 2:37 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Wednesday June 11 is the last day of school for Minneapolis Public Schools. So we might see an increase in the number of children in the library.

If you notice that they are being loud or disruptive, please let me, David, Emily, Pat, Steve or Randy know (or the security monitor). If its just you please feel free to give the students one warning. After that if they are still being loud or disruptive you can ask them to leave.

Thanks,
Melissa

Posted by Melissa Aho at 4:50 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

The Admin office will be closed this Tuesday, except for the hours of 12:45 - 2:00PM. Please check for cash drawer levels on Monday to make sure we'll have adequate funds for the next day. Should there be any problems (i.e. plumbing), please contact Facilities at 4-2900 and also contact a supervisor. If it is an emergency (for example, if there is any danger of water damage), make sure to stress that when speaking with Facilities.

Thanks!
Emily

Posted by Emily Reimer at 8:45 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Hi Everyone,

Just an fyi that our 24/7 hours end on Saturday. So when the library closes at 6pm, please make sure that you turn off all the lights and lock the door.

Also the library summer hours of closing at 10pm Sun-Thur and 6 on Fridays and Saturdays, starts this Sunday May 18.

Thanks,
Melissa

Posted by Melissa Aho at 7:55 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Something to think about!

*1 tree makes 16.67 reams of copy paper or 8,333 sheets.

*1 ream of paper (500 sheets) uses 6% of a tree.

* The average cost of a wasted page is $0.06, and the average employee prints 6 wasted pages per day--1,410 wasted pages per year at a cost of $84 per employee.

* The average U.S. office worker prints 10,000 pages a year.

* In 2004, the U.S. used 8 million tons of office paper (3.2 billion reams)--the equivalent of 178 million trees.

* The U.S. uses enough office paper each year to build a 10-foot-high wall that's 6,815 miles long. That's more than the distance from New York to Tokyo.

* Production of 1 ton of copy paper uses 11,134 kWh (the same amount of energy an average household uses in 10 months).

*Making a single sheet of copy paper can use more than 13 ounces of water--more than a typical soda can.

*Production of 1 ton of copy paper produces 19,075 gallons of waste water; 2,278 pounds of solid waste; and 5,690 pounds of green house gases (the equivalent of 6 months of car exhaust).

*It takes 3 tons of wood to produce 1 ton of copy paper.

(info from the MINITEX blog)

Posted by Melissa Aho at 6:51 PM | Permalink | Comments (1) | TrackBacks (0)

On Thursday, March 20, RefWorks activated the Attachments option for all University of Minnesota RefWorks accounts. The attachment feature enables users to attach files to their references in their personal database, much like attaching files to an email message. The incorporation of this feature allows users to upload files to existing references stored within their RefWorks database. With the availability of this feature RefWorks users can instantly save and retrieve all forms of data within their database including BMP, TIF, JPG, PNG, GIF, PDF, and much more.

RefWorks is now providing unlimited storage space for attachments for subscribing organizations. Although RefWorks will provide unlimited storage space at the organization level, some limitations have been set at the user account level.

* Default storage space setting is 100MB, per account.
* Additional space can be allocated on an account-by-account basis up to a maximum of 200MB per account.
* No limitation on the number of attachments allowed per account or per record.
* A current maximum of 5MB limit per attachment is set, although we are working with RefWorks to address this limitation.

Posted by Melissa Aho at 2:24 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

The University of Minnesota is committed to the safety and security of its students, faculty, and staff. The safety of our campus community during an emergency requires planning and awareness about how emergency plans will be implemented.

This Web site will help you understand how the University prepares for and responds to safety, health, and weather emergencies. It also provides important information about personal safety and how to respond in the event of an emergency. Take a few minutes to familiarize yourself with this site and bookmark it for future reference.

In the event of any campus emergency, dial 911.

Posted by Emily Reimer at 3:10 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

The Journal Shift

The journal shift project is intended to consolidate the journals that remain after we sent 30,000 volumes to the storage facility on the west bank into a smaller amount of space. This will allow us to take down stacks in other areas, freeing up space for other kinds of student activities. In particular, we’re expecting to vacate much of the central core area of the 3rd floor for Bioinformatics offices and a “Collaboratory.� We’re also going to be dismantling the 3rd floor desk and consolidating Circulation and Copy Service activities on the 2nd floor with the Reserve and Reference desks.

When shifting we need to make efforts to collect or “reap� all of the available space, but also leave a prudent amount in order to allow for a few new titles to sneak in here and there, and to accommodate the issues that arrive over the next few years for those titles where we still actively receive issues. Towards this end we have been trying to observe several practices:

• leave 5 years of expansion space for active titles
• don’t put current unbound issues on the top or bottom shelf
• Leave space between different titles/sets of journal volumes,
• Think about what you’re doing and use common sense in juggling these rules and titles
• Record your work in the Pagelog
• Ask questions when you’re not sure

These are explained or at least I’ve expanded on these themes in additional paragraphs below the cut, or in separate memos under paging. Be sure to read these carefully, and add your initials to the memos.

Continue reading "The Journal Shift" »

Posted by David Lenander at 7:23 PM | Permalink | Comments (10) | TrackBacks (0)

We have had reports recently of a phishing scam email circulating and wanted to remind you make sure to protect the integrity of your online identity. In this case, the "phishers" ask for your UMN email account and password (X500) in order to prevent your UMN email account from being closed and/or permanently losing your data. If you get this email ~ do not reply - delete the message. If you already have replied, change your X500 password right away.

The University will never ask you for a password through an email. Emailing passwords is rarely a good idea. Email is generally sent in the clear over the Internet, where it can be seen by someone with access to the network in all the locations along the way. Think of unencrypted email as a postcard.

Feel free to contact autosys (4-9094) or let a supervisor know if you have any questions or concerns.

Thanks,
Emily

Posted by Emily Reimer at 10:45 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

The student who had a seizure Sunday night stopped in to say Thank You. She said she was feeling fine and that there is nothing wrong with her.

She also left two bags of candy as a Thank you to everyone here at the Bio-Med for being so helpful to her. They are on the back table (by the timecards).

Melissa

Posted by Melissa Aho at 7:43 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

A new feature of PubMed is that citations now link directly to information on particular drugs based on the MeSH terms and textwords in a particular record. The Patient Drug Information links show up directly under the Related Drug Information links in the Abstract Plus view. The data comes from MedMasterâ„¢; a publication of the American
Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP), which is also used in MedlinePlus.

Posted by Melissa Aho at 3:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Please welcome our newest circulation student workers Rhea and Sunyoung!

Sunyoung has worked at the Vet Library and at Wilson and is working on her PhD in Human Resources. Rhea has worked at Appleton Papers and Dunn Brothers and is a pre-nursing student.

Both will begin their training this week and will start their normal hours next week.

Also please welcome our newest page, Nadi!

Nadi is originally from Sri Lanka and is the College of the Bio-Sciences and wants to become a vet.

Welcome Rhea, Sunyoung and Nadi to the Bio-Medical Library!

Posted by Melissa Aho at 1:23 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Please, ALL READ, Pages AND Deskers:

Next week (Sunday, Jan. 13 – Saturday, Jan. 19) we will be recording the number of volumes and issues of journals that we handle in shelving by title in an online database. We have done this before, and will do so again, later in the semester. For some of you this may be new, and perhaps a little review doesn’t hurt any of us. Each volume must be counted and recorded by title in the database on one of the computers at one of the service desks. Here are the steps to follow, subject to clarification over the next few days as people notice what I’ve forgotten.

When starting a new truck of journals for shelving, put an “uncounted� (red) indicator in the pocket on the end of the truck. (If there are two pockets, two labels may be used—but mainly make sure that we don’t have two conflicting messages). Put journals on the truck as usual, whether you’re collecting them from tables in the stacks areas or by the copy machines, and then put the journals in order (if you don’t always put the journals in precise order before shelving them, you may want to change your ways for this counting process). Once the journals are in order on the truck, take them to a counting station at the 2nd or 3rd level desk. On the FileMaker counting database, look up each title and record the number of volumes and issues that you’re shelving.

Then: Read each barcode into the "in-house use" window in the Aleph client at the circulation desks. This is a procedure that Bri and other shelvers have been following for the books, all of the time. We will do this for the journals only for this week. Let me knw if you agree that this would be simpler and easier than the current procedure of looking each title up in the FileMaker database. Unbarcoded journal issues on Monday should be collected and given to me, and I will decide whether I want to employ a special, cumbersome procedure more than just one day. (Look for further instruction regarding unbounds as of Tuesday). If this works out, this might be the whole procedure in the future.

When the truck is finished, change the “uncounted� red indicator to a green “counted� tab, and the truck is ready for shelving as usual. After emptying a counted truck, change the indicators back to uncounted.

• Obviously, do NOT pick up any loose journals along the way to shelving and add them on to the truck—these must be counted first.
• All journals should be counted before they are shelved.
• Books with call numbers are NOT included in this process, so just handle them as usual.

If the FileMaker database is not up, you may need to sign in: use the pull-down menu command “Open Remote,� and choose the first listed file, "2008 JAN JOURNAL STATISTICS"---Do NOT use the old “JOURNAL_STATISTICS� file, further down the list. Like most FileMaker files, put in the usual password, and the user name should be "Circstaff." The password should appear in the place where we keep the passwords, known to all desk staff.

I’m not going to try to fully discuss using the database to record these counts, but if no one has gone over this with you, please stop and ask to review this with either one of the desks students who is familiar with the process, or preferably with me (if I’m available) or Melissa or Steve. If there are particular points that you think should be highlighted, please add them in the comments that you can attach to this memo. Please at the least initial this memo, so that I know that everyone has read it.

This process obviously adds a bit to the time it takes to pickup, sort and put away the journals. As I’ve previously discussed, this work can and ought to be shared between the pages & the desk staff.

If you’ve never done this, why not open the database right now and take a look at how this is supposed to work. Ask any questions in advance!

Thanks for your help with this project. --David

Posted by David Lenander at 7:27 PM | Permalink | Comments (6) | TrackBacks (0)

Hello Everyone,

Just to let you know, we will NOT have 24x7 during the Winter Break. So if you open or close please remember that you will need to have your keys and review the procedures for totally closing and opening the library.

If you need a refresher on what to do when you open or close...READ the 'Student Desk Worker Guide', which is right to your right (and above 'Feed the Blog!').

Also its good to remember that if you have a key and open at 6:45am you need to be on time to let your fellow co-workers in!

Thanks,
Melissa

Posted by Melissa Aho at 9:37 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

The Learning Resources Center (located in Walter Library) occasionally sends over DVDs and videos for us to hold for patrons. Usually, they walk the items over from Walter, so someone will actually hand you the item with a green hold slip. There aren't regular holds, so don't put them on 3rd Floor hold shelf. Instead, give them to Steve in the ILL Office. If Steve isn't around, give them to Emily.

Please make a comment, so I know you've read and understood this post. If you have any questions, let me know.

Thanks!
Emily

Posted by Emily Reimer at 12:45 PM | Permalink | Comments (7) | TrackBacks (0)

Bio-Med's Annual Holiday Party!

If you've ever attended one of our potluck lunches in 555, you know that Bio-Med knows how to EAT, and the annual holiday party is no exception. You're invited, so come and celebrate the season with your friends and co-workers!

Date: December 7th
Time: Festivities begin at 5:00PM
Location: 1523 Branston St., St Paul, MN 55108

Farewell to Nick and Tiffanie Lunch

Here's the sad one. Nick and Tiffanie are both insistent on graduating and leaving us, so we're taking them out to lunch to celebrate their achievements. Come say goodbye and help send them off in style.

Date: December 14th
Time: 11:30AM
Location: TBD (Leaving from Bio-Med)

Posted by Emily Reimer at 10:23 AM | Permalink | Comments (2) | TrackBacks (0)

Come eat delicious turkey and other assorted delicious food items TOMORROW in Room 555 from 11:00AM to 1:30PM. It will be a taste sensation! Feel free to bring your own contributions, too, if you like, though all we really want is the pleasure of your company. See you there! Emily

Posted by Emily Reimer at 9:17 AM | Permalink | Comments (2) | TrackBacks (0)

As some of you might know, we have recently been having some issues with non-University of Minnesota patrons using the computers and headphones. A committee was formed to look into these issues and how best to serve all of our users.

The committee also came up with two recommendations. Starting Monday November 12, headphone will only be checkout to people with a UM UCard and computers in the 'pit' area will be restricted to those with a x.500 authentication.

If you have any questions, please let a supervisor know. Please post your initials in a comment to confirm you are aware of the new policies, and make sure you have read the post below about training!

Thanks,
Emily

Posted by Emily Reimer at 10:26 AM | Permalink | Comments (10) | TrackBacks (0)

J Sedlak from Minneapolis Public library dropped off some M&M's for the students here at Bio-Med. I'm gonna leave these in the fridge for us. Take some and make sure everyone gets at least a bite.

-LTN

Posted by Tiffanie Clark at 11:54 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Some of you may have noticed that the computers sometimes shut themselves off.

Here are the times this happens:

For the pit the the freeze period is from - 11 pm - 2:30 am
For the Blue PCs ( and some Green PCs outside the PIT) - 2 am - 5:30 am

Posted by Melissa Aho at 10:35 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Open House 2007 - Join Us! When & Where: Tuesday, October 23, 2007 10:00am-2:00pm 555 Diehl Hall

Come investigate library resources, consult library staff and get your questions answered, enjoy refreshments and giveaways, and win fabulous prizes (including t-shirts, gift certificates, a printer, books, tickets to sporting and entertainment events, and more).

Continue reading "Bio-Med Open House" »

Posted by Emily Reimer at 12:01 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Although we've never really admitted it, we've tended almost every summer, especially as August winds down and the regular classes are mostly over, to relax our rules about playing games at the desk. Then we remind everyone about the rule against games once fall semester starts up. But I had a complaint that the puzzles scattered across the 2nd floor counter looked unprofessional, and I'm inclined to agree that it looks like we're having too much fun. It's also harder to do work on the desktop without disturbing the solid puzzled surface. If you want to put one puzzle at a time together, and it doesn't interfere with your ability to pay attention to the desk and the patrons wandering in or by, o.k. for the rest of August. But let's keep it down to one at a time.

Posted by David Lenander at 4:24 PM | Permalink | Comments (3) | TrackBacks (0)

Farewell & Congratulations to Joel Morrison

Joel Morrison will be leaving the Health Sciences Libraries/Bio-Med Library to take a library position at the College of St Paul.
Located in the heart of Saint Paul's Cathedral Hill, Saint Paul College is the oldest of the metro area's public two year colleges. SPC was recently recognized as one of the top 50 fastest growing public two-year college in the nation.

Joel's last day at HSL will be Friday, August 17. Stop by to offer your best wishes. -Steve Llewellyn

Join us to say good-bye on Friday, August 17, at 1:00 PM over lunch at the Big Ten.

Posted by David Lenander at 6:35 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

I'm pleased to announce that we've finally filled the staff opening for an evening supervisor. Today Melissa Aho joins us as a Library Assistant 3. She will be sharing the office in 278A with me, and working days for at least the next couple of weeks. Sometime in September she'll switch to the evening shift. Please stop by and introduce yourself to Melissa, and if you're around today (Wednesday, Aug. 1) between 2 and 3, join us in room 555 for a meet & greet with some light refreshments.

For the past four years, Melissa has been the Campus Librarian and Business Resources Librarian at the Minnesota School of Business-Brooklyn Center, as well as a Weekend Reference Librarian at the Metropolitan State University in St. Paul. Besides her MLIS, Melissa also has an M.A. in Anthropology and is pursuing another M.A. in Art History.

Posted by David Lenander at 4:56 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

To thank you for all of your hard work so far this summer, we've decided to say it in bagels. They're in the break room on the 2nd floor -- enjoy!

Bagel Fun Fact

Wikipedia says about the bagel, "[It] was invented in Central Europe, probably in Poland. A 1610 document from Kraków mentions beygls given as a gift to women in childbirth. This is cited as the earliest known reference to the bagel, but the document is not absolutely clear about what a beygl is." Hmmm.... Who knew?

Emily

Posted by Emily Reimer at 3:01 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

The University provides us with some groovy online tools. Here are a few to check out:

Online file storage -- 5 GB of space!

Never email a paper to yourself again! NetFiles allows you to upload content, manage it in folders and share it with others. Very, very handy! Follow this link to activate your account: http://www1.umn.edu/netfiles/about.html.

More structured than NetFiles -- Another 5GB!

Portfolio can be thought of as an electronic file cabinet in which you can store multiple types of information by and about yourself, such as writing samples, photographs or design samples, video clips, music clips, resumes, internship experiences or mentors. Creating a Portfolio encourages you to think critically about and document your thoughts and experiences related to personal information, education, career, skills, professional practices and recognition. Create your Portfolio at: https://portfolio.umn.edu/portfolio/.

Start your own blog -- it takes less than a minute!

UThink blogs are available to the faculty, staff, and students of the University of Minnesota, and are intended to support teaching and learning, scholarly communication, and individual expression for the U of M community. Create your own blog at: http://blog.lib.umn.edu/uthink/start.phtml.

Posted by Emily Reimer at 7:36 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

It's important to know how to respond in emergency situations. Attached are a series of safety questions that we would like all staff members to be able to answer. Please download the attached file, and either insert your answers and email the file to ereimer@umn.edu, or respond to me in person. Download file Thanks! Emily

Posted by Emily Reimer at 5:37 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)