Library Suggestion Blog http://blog.vcu.edu/libsuggest/ en Copyright 2009 Fri, 06 Nov 2009 15:02:18 -0500 http://www.sixapart.com/movabletype/?v=4.25 http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rss What if a book is missing from the shelf? How about replacing all the missing books you have? That would be a great idea. Then maybe, just maybe I wouldn't have to search through 20 books before I found ONE that was available to read.

From: a library user

Patricia Selinger, Head of Preservation replies...

There could be several reasons why the book you are looking for is not on the shelf: someone is currently using it in the library, it is in the reshelving process, it is checked out, it is lost. For these reasons, among others, the VCU Libraries is making a significant investment in electronic books that are not subject to the circulation process and to loss, damage, and theft. The reshelving area on the 3rd floor is a good place to look if you don't find your book on the shelf. Books are picked up throughout the library during the day and brought here along with those received from Circulation. Shelves in the sorting area are labeled with call number ranges for sorting. Books are sorted into call number order onto carts. If the specific book you want is not available, we recommend Interlibrary loan.

Teresa Doherty, Head of Circulation and Information Services, adds...

If a book is listed in the library catalog as being "available," then it should be on the shelf -- not checked out to another patron, or in repair, or on order, for example. If a book isn't on the shelf where it should be, here are some suggestions:

  • Check on nearby tables and photocopiers, as other patrons may have been using the book you need.
  • Check the reshelving area on the third floor.
  • Fill out a "Where's My Book?" tear-off sheet available on the ends of shelving units throughout the library stacks. You can drop the form off at the Circulation service desk on the first floor. Circulation staff will search for the book and let you know when it has been found.
  • Patrons can borrow materials from our library consortium partners in the Richmond area. Library staff at the circulation service desk or reference desk can help you check the catalogs of these other libraries and explain how to use a RALC Borrowing Pass (Richmond Academic Library Consortium) to borrow materials from them.
  • You can also use our Interlibrary Loan and Document Delivery services offered through ILLiad to borrow materials not available through VCU Libraries.

Thanks very much for taking the time to post to the Suggestion Blog. We hope that this response is helpful to you.

]]> http://blog.vcu.edu/libsuggest/2009/11/how_about_replacing_all_the.html http://blog.vcu.edu/libsuggest/2009/11/how_about_replacing_all_the.html Collections - books, periodicals, etc. Fri, 06 Nov 2009 15:02:18 -0500 Housekeeping in the Basement Computer Lab Please thoroughly clean Cabell Library's basement where the computers are. The keyboards are sticky, the tables are dirty, and the floor needs to be swept, mopped and waxed. I have to use the computers in Cabell because I don't have a laptop at the moment and it would be nice to use them in a clean environment. Thank you!

From: an undergraduate student

Jeanne Hammer, Associate University Librarian for Administration and Policy Development replies...

Thank you for bringing the condition in the B-8 lab to our attention. The Libraries has submitted a work order to Facilities for the housekeeping contract company to clean the floor. Your concern about the tables and keyboards has been sent to VCU's Technology Services staff who the operate the B-8 computer lab.

David Brobst, Technology Services, adds...
Technology Services contracts for professional cleaning services five times per semester for the keyboards, mice, monitors, and work surfaces in the B-8 computer lab. In addition, the Tech Squad wipes down keyboards at least once each day, more often than that the during the busier times of the semester. Technology Services also makes disinfecting wipes available for students who want to clean any part of their work area in the lab.

VCU Libraries and Technology Services thank you for taking the time to share your concerns with us.

]]> http://blog.vcu.edu/libsuggest/2009/11/housekeeping_in_the_basement_c.html http://blog.vcu.edu/libsuggest/2009/11/housekeeping_in_the_basement_c.html Facilities Fri, 06 Nov 2009 14:13:49 -0500 First Floor Noise in Cabell Library Over the past couple of weeks, I have noticed that people are playing music aloud in Cabell library. While I understand that the first floor is not for quiet study, I do think that playing music abuses the study environment. I would like to suggest that security make an occasional round around the library and please tell people to use headphones. It is very distracting. Thank you.
From: a graduate student

Mary Ellen Spencer, Head, Research and Instructional Services replies...

As you point out, the first floor of Cabell Library has areas that by their nature are not quiet: the lobby, Starbucks, and the busy circulation and reference desks. Even in these areas, users should be mindful that they are in a library and that students and faculty are enganged in academic work nearby. Users in areas away from the entrance to Cabell Library should not experience disruptive noise from other users.

You are right to note that Cabell Library has designated areas for various types of learning activities. We recognize the need for library spaces that promote both collaborative group work as well as quiet study. Whenever possible, a security guard will walk all floors of the library to monitor activity and to maintain the noise guidelines for each area. We strongly encourage you to report disruptions on any floor to library staff or security guards.

VCU Libraries has made many changes to improve the study environment in Cabell Library, and we welcome suggestions as to how we can continue to do so. I hope I've responded to your comment in a helpful way. Thank you for taking the time to let us know about your concerns.

]]> http://blog.vcu.edu/libsuggest/2009/11/first_floor_noise_in_cabell_li.html http://blog.vcu.edu/libsuggest/2009/11/first_floor_noise_in_cabell_li.html Facilities Mon, 02 Nov 2009 11:16:34 -0500 Temperature in Cabell Library Why in the world is it so hot in the Cabell library?? I understand that cold weather is upon us, but today it was about 50 degrees outside and about 85 inside. I shed all the clothes I could without risking a nudity in public citation and I was still sweating. I heard others around me complaining about this as well. Why?

From: an undergraduate student

Jeanne Hammer, Associate University Librarian for Administration and Policy Development replies...

Thank you for taking the time to post your question to the Library Suggestion Blog. The HVAC system in Cabell Library is the original system installed circa 1975, and it is particularly difficult to maintain comfortable temperatures in fall and spring when the outside temperature swings frequently from balmy to chilly and vice versa . The system is designed to provide either heat or cooling and doesn't operate ideally during transition seasons. Last week we had complaints about it being too chilly in Cabell Library, because the outside temperatures had dropped, but the HVAC system had not been switched yet to the heating mode (which is typically done mid-October).

Please know that VCU Physical Plant has been contacted to see what can be done to lower the temperatures. Thanks again for your comments and patience.

]]> http://blog.vcu.edu/libsuggest/2009/10/temperature_in_cabell_library.html http://blog.vcu.edu/libsuggest/2009/10/temperature_in_cabell_library.html Facilities Mon, 19 Oct 2009 19:45:19 -0500 Cell Phone Use in Cabell Library Greetings, I asked the person at the Reference Desk today to enforce the cell phone policy in the computer area (as posted) and he replied that those signs are about to be taken down. Big mistake that could result in physical violence. So not only will we continue to see people eating from pizza boxes and dinner plates complete with forks while seated at computers, we will now have to put up with loud cell phone conversations? My bachelors and masters are from larger universities, so I have a point of reference from which to judge. Next, cigarette ashtrays to each computer station and study desk in the library?

From: a graduate student

Pat Flanagan, Associate University Librarian for Public Services replies...

I am glad you asked for help at the reference desk and were told that our policy regarding cell phones has indeed changed. I'm also sorry that some pre-existing
signs remained in place. They should have been removed when the new signs were posted and we have now taken them down.

I understand your concern about noise levels, and appreciate your sharing them with us. Cabell Library attracts thousands of students each day, sometimes well in excess of 11,000 per day at the height of the semester. This is far more traffic than the building received when it opened in 1975 to support a student population of only 16,000 - half today's number.

The large numbers of students using the library do create noise issues. These issues won't be fully resolved until new library space can be added on the Monroe Park Campus. As a result, students have asked that we create more quiet space. Just this summer we did so, by making both the 3rd and 4th floors quiet study areas. The 4th floor is the "silent" floor, where even texting or use of headphones is not permitted in order to reduce stray noise that might be distracting to those studying. If you are seeking a quiet study environment, these are the floors for you. And, because you are a graduate student, you can also ask the Circulation Desk staff for access to the John Mapp Graduate Study and Reading Room on the 4th floor (just adjacent to the Special Collections and Archives Department). The Mapp Room includes computer access, as well as seating and study tables.

Conversely, for the 1st and 2nd floors we have followed the lead of a number of university libraries that have relaxed their cell phone policies. Cabell's 1st and 2nd
floors are intended for collaborative activity that includes conversation. Our signage indicates, however, that cell phone use that is not disruptive is permissible. If a cell phone conversation exceeds normal conversational tones, please do alert security
or service desk staff who will help resolve the situation. We will also remind 1st floor service desk staff that loud cell phone conversations are not permitted.

Thank you again for bringing your concern to me. Your experience using the library is extremely important to us.

]]> http://blog.vcu.edu/libsuggest/2009/10/cell_phone_use_in_cabell_libra.html http://blog.vcu.edu/libsuggest/2009/10/cell_phone_use_in_cabell_libra.html General Library Suggestions Fri, 09 Oct 2009 16:45:25 -0500 Concerns about Library Services It is understandable that the current economic condition is affecting everything. Nevertheless our success and privileges of using school resources should not be limited. I have noticed that the library hours have been cut compared to last semester. Cabell library is one of those buildings that is being used by more students than any other once around the campus. long lines to check out books, no reference assistants after 8 which is the time even before some evening classes end. Where should we go for assistance? The quality of service has decreased significantly since last semester. Most of the staff at the library is also not as friendly as I recall them to be (eventhough insignificant), it would be nice to have the staff help us with a good attitude. This is something not only me but many of my fellow students share and we would like to suggest a review of how many people use the library each day from previous statistics and evaluate if it is actually fair to limit hour and resources. Last but not least I would like to thank you for your help.

From: an undergraduate student

Patricia Flanagan, Associate University Librarian for Public Services replies...

Thank you very much for taking the time to let us know about your concerns. Although we have had to make some changes, we have focused on preserving those things that students have told us are most important to them: regular building hours and good library collections. For example, Cabell Library hours during the week have not been changed: Cabell will still open 7:30am weekdays, and close at 2am Sunday - Thursday, just like last year. There are some small changes on Friday evening, Saturday, and Sunday, saving about 8 hours overall, the length of a worker's shift. And there are changes in hours and services at our service points in Cabell Library. But library hours during the week, a very important resource for students, are not affected.

The University is working hard to make the best possible decisions for VCU students to ensure that the instructional mission of the University is met. As a result, students will continue to see access to the instructors, classes, and other support they need to meet their academic goals. An important factor in making decisions has been University support for the libraries work in acquiring the print and electronic books, journals, data resources, databases, multimedia, and other materials that students and faculty need for their academic work. This isn't the case at many other institutions in Virginia and elsewhere, and it's good that students here aren't affected in that way.

The University has also been very supportive of efforts to make the best use of Cabell Library space, in order to provide students with the spaces, equipment, and furniture they need to work productively while in the building. The wonderful improvements to the second floor, partially funded by the Office of the Provost and the Board of Visitors, include seven new group study rooms, white boards, large monitors, upgraded electrical and added outlets and lighting, and collaboration furniture. There have also been improvements to the fourth floor and an effort to develop more quiet study space students have requested on the third floor.

I very much regret that you have experienced unfriendliness from staff. You accurately observed that there are fewer staff handling the same large volume of people using Cabell Library, and while that can be stressful for staff, it's important that you and your fellow students continue to have a good experience with staff help. I appreciate your bringing this observation to us, and assure you that I will follow up on it. I will be alerting Public Services managers of your comments (without your name) so they can be more aware of interactions taking place in their areas. Customer service is a top priority for us. I encourage you to contact me directly about any negative experiences you have had with as many specifics as possible so we can work to correct problems.

Thank you again for taking the time to articulate your concerns about service changes. We welcome student input and take the concerns very seriously as we make decisions. We all hope that the economy will improve so that we can reinstate services we know VCU students
value.

]]> http://blog.vcu.edu/libsuggest/2009/09/concerns_about_library_service.html http://blog.vcu.edu/libsuggest/2009/09/concerns_about_library_service.html General Library Suggestions Fri, 04 Sep 2009 14:39:05 -0500 Missing Issues of The Washington Post Kindly pass this message along to Denise M. Branch, Assistant Head, Acquisitions. The Sundays' edition of the Washington Post for the last four weeks never arrived. Would you kindly look into the reason that the Washington Posts (Sundays' edition) is not reaching the wooden rack or the shelf. Thanks.

From: a graduate student

Denise M Branch, Assistant Head of Acquisitions and Serials Librarian responds...

The supplier failed to deliver the Washington Post on a few occasions. Acquisitions contacted the supplier, and the problem has been resolved. The papers should now be available. We will monitor the receipt of this newspaper for the next several weeks to ensure that it is being consistently supplied to us. Thank you for bringing the matter to our attention.

]]> http://blog.vcu.edu/libsuggest/2009/08/missing_issues_of_the_washingt.html http://blog.vcu.edu/libsuggest/2009/08/missing_issues_of_the_washingt.html Shelving/Finding Books or Periodicals Fri, 28 Aug 2009 09:15:54 -0500 Collection Suggestion I am trying to locate a textbook I can use while I am waiting for the one I ordered to arrive. I think it would be SUPER helpful if the libraries had textbooks that students could use AT the library (so a student doesn't check it out for weeks)for situations like this or if a student couldn't afford textbooks, etc. I saw the library carries my Immunobiology book but it is checked out until NOVEMBER! That is almost the entire semester which is completely unhelpful to other students. I am specifically looking for a graduate school class textbook: Microbiology 7th edition Prescott, Harley and Klein

From: a graduate student

Lynne Turman, Head Tompkins-McCaw Library Collections replies...

VCU Libraries has a long-standing policy of not purchasing course textbooks. Course textbooks change from year to year and become outdated quickly. Sometimes a text that has been purchased for the Libraries collection is later adopted as a course textbook. If one student checks out this book, the remainder of the students in the course will not have access. VCU Libraries provides Course Reserve Services to help with this problem. Faculty can request that the VCU Libraries copy of a text be placed on Reserve and can choose the time period for each loan - from 2 hours to 7 days. Instructor or department owned textbooks can also be placed on Reserve. More information on Course Reserve Services is available on the web at http://www.library.vcu.edu/reserves/

]]> http://blog.vcu.edu/libsuggest/2009/08/collection_suggestion_1.html http://blog.vcu.edu/libsuggest/2009/08/collection_suggestion_1.html Collections - books, periodicals, etc. Thu, 27 Aug 2009 17:18:47 -0500 Library Catalog Displays for Holds and Renewals I'm wondering if it would be made possible to display the # of times renewed & # renewals left for each item on the list of checked out titles, as well as if there are hold restrictions placed for a particular book. This way, assuming no requests are being made by another patron, it renders a better estimate how much time is left for each item.

From: an undergraduate student

Nell Chenault, Access Librarian and Head, Media and Reserves Services replies...

You suggest an interesting customization to VCU Libraries' circulation renewal system, an idea which would benefit both borrowers who wish to renew items and library users with active hold requests waiting for the item to be returned! VCU Libraries explored whether this customization is possible. We found that the 2010 version upgrade of our circulation system software will provide enhancement to the My Library Record "Loan and Renewal" feature to show the current number of renewals to date and remaining renewals at the top level loan list screen.

Currently My Library Record displays both hold request and renewal limit information through the "Loans & Renewals" feature. Select the numbered link next to the title for more details.

  • If the title collection cannot be renewed (i.e. course reserves, DVD's), you will see the message, "No renew permission for item."
  • If you have reached your limit in the number of renewals for that item, you will see "Renewal limit reached."
  • If another user has a hold request on the title, the message "Item has holds" will display.
The email Courtesy Reminder is another source of information for hold requests on a title you have on loan. This notice has a "Requested ?" field for each title, noting whether another user has placed a hold, recall, or booking request. Requests block renewals.

Different patron statuses (undergraduate, graduate, faculty, staff, etc.) and different collections have varying renewal privileges. For information about renewal privileges by borrower category and by collection, see the VCU Libraries Borrowing Privileges Table. For information about renewal methods, limits, and blocks, see Renewing Materials.

If you have questions about renewals, contact any of the VCU Libraries circulation services desks. Thank you for your suggestion!

]]> http://blog.vcu.edu/libsuggest/2009/07/library_catalog_displays_for_h.html http://blog.vcu.edu/libsuggest/2009/07/library_catalog_displays_for_h.html Other Suggestions and Comments Fri, 24 Jul 2009 15:52:56 -0500 Exhaust Smell at Tompkins-McCaw Library I am currently trying to study on the first floor of Tompkins Mcall Library and I am being overwhelmed with what smells like car exhaust fumes. Other people are complaining of headaches and I think this is VERY unhealthy unless you can explain other wise. I am not trying to commit suicide with car exhaust...just trying to study. This is unacceptable as I have smelt this before. Explain please.

From: a faculty member

Jodi Koste, Archivist, Tompkins-McCaw Library, replies....

Thank you for your expression of concern about the periodic exhaust smell that permeates the first floor of the Tompkins-McCaw Library. Library staff have also been affected by this exhaust fume odor. We have been working with VCU Facilities Management to resolve this issue. Our building is adjacent to the VCU Health System's visitor parking deck and some of the fumes may originate in that facility. Please do report any reoccurrence of this smell to our Service Desk.

]]> http://blog.vcu.edu/libsuggest/2009/06/exhaust_smell_at_tompkins-mcca.html http://blog.vcu.edu/libsuggest/2009/06/exhaust_smell_at_tompkins-mcca.html Facilities Wed, 03 Jun 2009 16:30:06 -0500 Linking to the Robert C. Williams Paper Museum Hi! I came across your site today while doing some research on the history of paper making and printing. You provide some really great resources, but I noticed that your link to http://www.ipst.edu/amp/ is broken.

From: an undergraduate student

Patricia Selinger, Head, Preservation Department replies...

Thank you for helping me correct the bad link to the Robert C. Williams Paper Museum! We typically use reports generated by LinkScan software to identify dead links in our web pages. LinkScan did not pick up this particular one for some reason. I found the new link to the Museum ( http://www.ipst.gatech.edu/amp/index.html ) and corrected it on the web page. Thank you very much for your suggestion!

]]> http://blog.vcu.edu/libsuggest/2009/05/linking_to_the_robert_c_willia.html http://blog.vcu.edu/libsuggest/2009/05/linking_to_the_robert_c_willia.html Library Technology/Computers Mon, 11 May 2009 16:27:10 -0500 How to Suggest Purchase of a Journal Subscription I am a student within the sciences and was wondering what has to happen in order for a new journal to be added either electronically or within the library. Global Biogeochemical sciences is a great journal and yet we do not have access to it. Thanks!

From: a graduate student

Ronke Lawal, Collection Librarian for Engineering and Science, replies...

Thank you for your suggestion. Materials in any format may be requested by submitting the Purchase Suggestion Form located on the VCU Libraries Web site. We take requests from our community very seriously. Many factors must be considered in the decision to subscribe to a journal, including relevance to the curriculum, reputation, accessibility, and cost. Because of budget limitations, we are not able to subscribe to all resources that faculty and students request. However, your request will definitely be considered. Once again, thank you for your interest in VCU Libraries.

]]> http://blog.vcu.edu/libsuggest/2009/04/how_to_suggest_purchase_of_a_j.html http://blog.vcu.edu/libsuggest/2009/04/how_to_suggest_purchase_of_a_j.html Collections - books, periodicals, etc. Tue, 28 Apr 2009 13:03:43 -0500 Noise in the Basement Computer Lab Is anything being done to keep the basement computer lab quiet? Obviously the signage and computer desktops aren't doing their job. Why was the desk taken out of the computer lab? It seemed like when there were monitors in the lab, it was at least somewhat quiet. Every time I come down here to work, there are people on their cell phones, listening to music, and talking loudly. It is absolutely ridiculous that I have to listen to music on my iPod to block out THEIR noise while I work. Just last week there was almost a fight because one student told another to please whisper or take her conversation elsewhere- how are students supposed to respond to this?! It would be great if others would realize that this is an academic institution and not a restaurant or meeting place- people are trying to get work done!!! What is the library's response to this? I know I could rent a laptop and go to the fourth floor, but the computer lab is more convenient, especially late night.

From: a graduate student

Jim Bostick, Director of User Services for VCU Technology Services replies...

It is disappointing that you are having these problems. Please know that you or any student can go to the Security Guard to request their assistance with disruptive students in this lab or anywhere in the library.

The lab in the basement of Cabell Library is managed by Technology Services. Over that last several years, with budgets contracting, but needs for technology support increasing, we made the decision that the money used to monitor the labs would be better used increasing support for classroom technology and the Help Desk. This move had the side effect of enabling us to put a small number of additional computers in this already cramped lab once the monitor's station was removed.

In the long run, we are working with the VCU Libraries on their project to create a much improved and expanded Learning Commons space on the 2nd floor. Once completed, the B8 lab will be merged with current library computers and new computers in renovated space on the 2nd floor that will provide much improved student computing spaces.

]]> http://blog.vcu.edu/libsuggest/2009/04/noise_in_the_basement_computer.html http://blog.vcu.edu/libsuggest/2009/04/noise_in_the_basement_computer.html Library Technology/Computers Mon, 27 Apr 2009 09:38:12 -0500 Computer Availability and E-journal Subscriptions Hello to all! I would like to make a suggestion on computer availability at JBCL. I do use the statistics page to watch for available computers throughout the day, which I have to admit that it is a very cool solution! Therefore using Twitter or text messaging type of system to get update on availability of computers will be useful. For instance, users can text "JBCL FLOOR 1" and send it to a number so they can get info at that moment.So nobody has to be cussing around because there is no available computer to work on paper/homework,etc.

Secondly, in order to open up space for computer work stations or seating areas, journals/magazines at the first floor can be made available all-online.Since there is no-check out for them, while the university has the subscription, they should be added to all-online database.Therefore, opening up new space shouldn't be hard. Also, many many thanks to JBCL staff and the friends of the library!

From: an undergraduate student

Jimmy Ghaphery, Head of Library Information Systems, replies...

We are glad that you are enjoying and using the Computer Availability system. The system is powered by LabStats, a commercial software product, and it is run by our colleagues in VCU Technology Services. At present, LabStats does not have text message or RSS functionality. Your suggestion is a very good one, and we have shared it with Technology Services. We will certainly keep this in mind for the future.

Karen Cary, Head of Collection Management, replies...

Thank you for taking the time to send your comments and suggestions. Your observations about library space and print journals and magazines housed on the first floor of Cabell Library are well taken. In fact, the online format is the default for all journals and magazines received by VCU Libraries. Generally, whenever the electronic format is available for a title and the cost is not prohibitive, the online format is selected. Print titles are scrutinized on a regular basis for the availability of an electronic format. As these are discovered, titles are converted from print to the online form. Currently, there are still many publishers that do not provide their journals in an online format.

In time, more and more publishers may decide to issue their journals and magazines electronically. We will continue to migrate journals and magazines to the online form as this change takes place. Again, thank you for your interest in VCU Libraries.

]]> http://blog.vcu.edu/libsuggest/2009/04/computer_availability_and_e-jo.html http://blog.vcu.edu/libsuggest/2009/04/computer_availability_and_e-jo.html Collections - books, periodicals, etc. Wed, 01 Apr 2009 12:25:13 -0500 Noise and Housekeeping in Cabell Library I am a senior at VCU and I have noticed that the housekeeping needs a boost. I see the staff empy trash cans periodically throughout the day, but the library is extremely dusty and the ventillation system needs to be thoroughly cleaned..probably every few months. With the relatively warm climate here in Richmond and the thousands of people who pass through the library daily, I think more steps needs to be taken to keep the allergens down and the germs down. One of my main concerns regarding keeping the germs down is for staff to clean the keyboards and mouses on the computers more often! I hardly ever see anyone clean them, and I get tired of going coming to a computer just to be grossed out and having to either move or use my handsanitzer + napkin combo to clean them off before I can even use the computer. Another concern is the noise level, especially in the B-8 computer lab. If I'm not mistaken, there are signs in the room that ask patron's to be quiet and considerate of others, yet almost every time I have been down there, there are at least 3 to 5 people talking loudly on their cell phones or talking loudly to each other. That is very annoying and distracting. Even though JBCL needs some improvements, I applaud the library staff who do their job well to ensure that things run smoothly here at VCU.

From: an undergraduate student

Jeanne Hammer, Associate University Librarian for Administration and Policy Development, replies...

Thank you for commenting on the physical conditions in Cabell Library, which have been passed on to managers in Facilities Management. VCU contracts with private firms to provide housekeeping services, and unfortunately due to budget reductions in previous years, the level of service and performance standard were cut back. For example, carpet cleaning is now done annually vs. bi-annually. Also, the contract company’s performance relative to the contracted service level is evaluated about six times per month by VCU Facilities inspectors. The company is penalized only if they score lower than 75 points (based on 100 points). We share your concern about housekeeping standards, but because of budget constraints, there is little that can be done other than ensuring that the housekeeping firm performs to the level of the contract.

Regarding the HVAC system, we have been assured by Facilities Management that filters are inspected daily and changed as needed. Again, due to budget constraints there is not regular cleaning of ductwork.

The VCU housekeeping contract does not provide for cleaning of keyboards or the work surfaces around the public computers. During inter-sessions library staff do clean all keyboards thoroughly. However, because of your and other students’ comments, we recently assigned one of our hourly workers the task of inspecting all Cabell Library keyboards daily and cleaning the ones that most need attention. We hope this will make a difference for you and your fellow students.

Lastly, we encourage students to alert library staff if you see overflowing trashcans, spills, or any other housekeeping situation that requires immediate attention. We will be glad to contact Housekeeping and report the problem. Thank you again for your comments and suggestions.

]]> http://blog.vcu.edu/libsuggest/2009/02/noise_and_housekeeping_in_cabe.html http://blog.vcu.edu/libsuggest/2009/02/noise_and_housekeeping_in_cabe.html Facilities Wed, 25 Feb 2009 14:31:42 -0500