A Different Kind of Library Worker's Day

Last Tuesday was National Library Worker’s Day and this is the first year in my life as a librarian that the library was closed to the public.   When NC Governor Roy Cooper issued a COVID-19 shutdown order, we all began working remotely from home.  It seems when weighing the importance of what is necessary and what is not, libraries are listed as ‘non-essential.’  I can definitely understand the danger in staying open amidst a pandemic crisis, especially since libraries are gathering places and house materials shared by a community.   Even so while the doors are shut there is still a lot of work going on … SO with a look at what goes on behind the scenes I can’t brag enough on our library’s wonderful staff. 

 

Our librarians have been working to compile a comprehensive guide to informational, educational, and entertainment resources that includes ways to access free ebooks and audiobooks, virtual field trips, crafts, work from home software, and more. Visit the library website at ashelibrary.org and click on the "Stuck at Home" banner to access this wonderful website!

Virtual training opportunities with library associations, Zoom meetings, and teleconferencing are being utilized to keep us all connected from a distance.  While we all miss physically interacting with the public there are plenty of things to do remotely.  Staff are even organizing and leading programs from home!  Check the library’s website for information about joining a virtual Slow Jam (May 2 & 16) and meeting with The Talking Service Book Club (May 8).

If you can’t connect at home, wireless internet access is available in the library parking lot 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Simply select the "Library Guest" network and accept the terms of use to connect. No password is required.

Follow Ashe County Public Library on Facebook for the Book-a-day Giveaway and win a book to be mailed to your home. Each contest is posted as an event that begins at 5 pm and ends at 5 pm the following day. To enter, simply answer a simple prompt (past questions include "What's your favorite book and why?" and "What is the most fun you've had while staying at home in April?"). Librarians will choose a winner and request your mailing address. You must be 18 or older to enter and must be an Ashe County resident. We are enjoying this unconventional way of connecting with our community!

Since the library’s temporary closure, total collection inventory is nearly done!  This is project would take months during opening hours. 

The Youth Services department has been posting interactive programming to engage stay-at-home students with STEAM activities.  Check the website every week for a Maker Monday Challenge! 

If you haven’t tried the Ashe Library Reading Challenge, it isn’t too late to jump in (also on the library’s website).  There is even an ARLY version for young readers.  Reading challenges are great ways to discover new books and authors.

Reopening plans are under way and will be implemented in phases as North Carolina begins to lift restrictions.  More information will soon be shared in a formal press release.  We do want everyone to know that the due date for borrowed materials is extended until May 15 and items returned are quarantined for 72 hours before going back into circulation. We are using our shut-down time to sanitize and organize in efforts to protect the health of our community.  Looking forward to seeing everyone again soon!