Welcome to a fresh new semester

Hello blog readers, and welcome to the start of the Spring 2012 semester.  We've made some changes around here so both new and returning students will all find some things unfamiliar at the library this semester.

First off, the most obvious change: our general hours are different starting this semester.  The Library Commons will no longer be open on weekends.  The main library's weekend hours have not changed, and it does have all of the same resources.  As a reminder, those hours are: 10am to 6pm on Saturday and 1pm to 9pm on Sunday.

The next most obvious change at the library is not actually here on campus.  When you need to log in to the library databases from off campus (or from the campus wireless internet) you'll now do so through the Portal.  The icon for the databases looks a bit like three blue disks stacked on top of each other in the Portal launchpad.  The library website log in will no longer work from off campus, but when using our computers does still provide a faster way to get to the databases without having to log in anywhere.

New students will find it handy to know that copies of most course textbooks are available on reserve behind the desk in the main library.  To check out a book that's held on reserve talk to the staff member at the desk.  You'll need to leave your keys or your college id to sign out a book, which then can not leave the library.  It can go next door to the Commons, as that is still part of the library, but can not go with you to class or anywhere off campus.

Study space, computer labs, and printers are available in both library buildings.  Study space can not be reserved in advance or by leaving items in rooms when leaving the building.  When using the library computers to print, select "studentprinters" from the drop down menu to print to the server.  Your print job will be sent to the server from which all printers pull jobs when you log in with your Equitrax PIN.  You ought to have your Equitrax PIN in your email, but if not just ask and we'll help you track down the number.

During all of our open hours you can get library assistance through the online Meebo chat box on our main library page.  It is staffed by library employees who can answer most of your library related questions.  Should you need help and there is no immediate answer, we're just busy at the moment and will get back to you as soon as we can.  If you leave your name and a way to contact you, we'll get back to you even if you step away from the computer.  If you find yourself in need of one-on-one research assistance, you can also make an appointment to speak with a librarian by calling  768-1730 or by emailing Library@ololcollege.edu.

Food trucks are continuing to serve at the library during lunch.  Today we had the wonderful Nice Dog Hot Dogs in the Commons parking lot from 11am to 1:30pm.  Other food trucks will be serving lunch on different days throughout the semester, offering a range of food options.  You can find up to the minute information about which food truck will be around and when on the library's Twitter account.

Good luck with all your classes!  May this be an excellent semester for every one of you.