Snapshot Day - what we've learned so far

I think we've all had time to dig out of the snow and get back to normal, at least whatever counts as "normal" for Chicago in February! The Library was very quiet this morning but is gradually filling up and we're doing our best to document a typical day here as part of the Illinois Library Association's "Snapshot" - One Day in the Life of Illinois Libraries.

I've posted an online survey where you are welcome to share your comments about why you like the Des Plaines Public Library. If you haven't filled it in yet, you can do so below. I thought I'd share with you what a few patrons have written thus far.

"I go mostly with my 3 year old daughter. There is such a large assortment of books and movies for her to choose from."

Favorite thing? "The library staff. They work hard for us!"

"My favorite thing is the up-to-date Music collection. The library is really keeping up with current music trends!"

"The check out system is so easy. I can place a hold on books from multiple libraries without traveling. Staff at the each floor is very knowledgeable." ap.

"Its beauty. It lifts my spirits to see a well-designed, well-cared for public facility in Des Plaines -- for us all to share."

"I really enjoy the selection in the Book Club section. I can always find an interesting read there when I'm not sure what I want to read next. It makes it convenient to find newer (though not aways) popular books, similar to browsing a bookstore. Also, I love the foreign film selection. There are many titles I've never seen in a video store, so I was very happy to discover this!" Sue H.

Just a few of the comments we've received and we would love to hear from you about why you use DPPL, what your favorite part of the Library is and any other love you'd like to share with us - after all, Valentine's Day is just around the corner and "Love Stories" is still the most searched book topic here at the Des Plaines Public Library - so we know there are some lovers out there! Thanks for your comments so far, we really do read and appreciate them. I'll share photos and video from Snapshot Day as the day continues. Stay warm and dry out there.

Snapshot - One Day in the Life of Illinois Libraries

Next Wednesday, 2/10/10, is "Snapshot" Day. The Illinois Library Association, faced with drastic budget cuts across the state, is just asking for a little love. :) We'll be collecting lots of statistics that day, taking photos, interviewing patrons, basically capturing one day in the life of a typical public library (although personally I think we're a lot better than "typical").

If you'd like to help, one thing you can do: answer one or all of the questions in the quick online survey below.
Tell us why you use DPPL, what resource, department, person or service makes it valuable and helpful to you. Maybe you can share a success story - how the Library encouraged you to read more, to learn computer skills, to look for employment, etc. It's your story, so only you know the answers to the questions, but we would love to hear from you. Think of it as an early Valentine to your friendly neighborhood public library of more than 100 years. If you stop in and visit us next Wednesday, you can share your stories with us in person - you might even catch me running around with the videocamera and I'd love to add you to our photo/video montage of the day. It's our honor and pleasure to serve this community and we would love to hear why the library matters to you. Thanks.

You say "potato..."

I say, "patate," or "aardappel," or "pomme de terre." That old "potah-to-potato" song "Let's Call the Whole Thing Off" celebrated the differences between pronunciations of English words, but take it global and you've got major communication problems. Being fluent in a second or even third language is something every global citizen should consider. If you've had the dream of learning a new language or brushing up on an old one, we have a new online service you'll want to try - Mango Languages.

Mango uses real-life situations and actual conversations to more effectively teach a new language. It includes instruction for 22 foreign language and ESL (English as a Second Language) courses for speakers of 14 different languages. Browsing through the language list, I'm excited about the possibilities! I studied French in high school and could really use a refresher course and Mango offers both a Basic and Complete lesson plan for francais. About 15 years ago I tried in vain to learn some Irish via a cassette tape. I've been searching for a convenient way to try again and I can't believe Mango offers Irish, too! The 23 languages offered cover many continents and countries so you are likely to find something you want or need to learn.

To use Mango in the library, just go to our Reference list of databases and click "Mango Languages." You will probably want to use Mango from your home computer - follow the same link, just have your DPPL card number handy to authenticate yourself for free access.

Our goal for 2010 is to help you get wherever you need to go in the neighborhood, the world, in life. If learning a language is part of your plan, try Mango Languages and let us know what you think.