RIDEAU LAKES UNION LIBRARY BOARD NEWS r Assisted by Betty Blackman and Susan Duncan, Co-ordinator Pat Little became the "Shelf Fairy" demolishing old shelving and erecting the new furnishings and equipment in all but the Portland Branch of the Union. Over $10,000.00 worth was received through a 50/50 grant from the Wintario section of the Ministry of Citizenship and Culture. The new equipment has permitted an increase of shelf' space in all units and added reference tables and seating in three units. The job was very labour intensive, involving the moving of some 20,000 titles on and off shelves. While librarians enjoyed seeing the final results, they were left with the chore of "putting the books in order" and several were assisted by excellent volunteers. The Board expresses its thanks to staff and volunteers for their work and appreciates that the procedure was completed in each branch without loss of operating time to patrons. Nothing can go perfectly and, while shelving is available for the Portland Branch, essential shelf brackets are at present resting in Halifax (anyone going that way?) It is expected that they will arrive within the next few weeks permitting Portland Branch to join in the experience of "reorganization". Most patrons have commented positively on the additional furnishings and, with the reshelving of books have discovered that the top and bottom shelves di_d_ contain some interesting reading. The increase in use of the libraries is most encouraging with several branches hosting new activities. The Lyndhurst branch may be the site for a Literacy program while the Elgin and Seeley‘s Bay branches continue to provide facilities for community group meetings. The Ministry of Community and Social Services is also using the Library and/or thevE/lgin Community [Room as a meeting place.- _ ' Confirmation has been received for a performance of "The Loon's Necklace" by a" professional group, to take place July 12/86 More information on this later re location and time. The show is sponsored through the Library and under Ontario Arts Council Guidelines a $1.00 admission must be charged. Magnifier Sheets Prove Popular: Magnifier sheets, which assist those with sight difficulties have proved to be very popular with many of our patrons and residents. Initially a purchase of five sheets by the Board was dispensed to the branch libraries to be loaned, free of charge. The Elgin Lions Club then purchased 12 additional sheets which are to be given free to patrons with sight problems. After a presentation at the Philipsville Neighbourhood Outreach meeting, several people enquired about purchasing the magnifier sheets for general home use. The sheets are ideal for studying maps, reading the newspaper or finding numbers in the now-miniscme print of the telephone book. While the sheets are being provided free to regular library patrons, they may be purchased through the Library. If you would like more information, or would like to purchase one of these "aids" please leave your name and telephone number at the Elgin Branch 359-5315. The cost is $5.00 per sheet. They may be seen at any of the Union branches. Union Hosts: The Union recently received a visit by one of the Ministry consultants from Toronto along with a consultant from OLS Rideau in Ottawa. After viewing and touring the Union branches, and looking over the operation, both stated they were most impressed with the level and extent of service offered. Both expressed a wish to return, not only to see the libraries again but to see the Rideau area at its prime, during the summer months. New Librgy Cards on the way: Finally, after lost letters and several telephone quotes, the new plastic membership cards are on the way. Within two weeks the new cards will be available and will be issued as patrons visit their Branch libraries. The new cards are wallet-sized, similar to a credit card and will replace the present cards. They will be more durable than the old card and hopefully more convenient to use. Membership in the Union Library is FREE and gives access to all six branches as well as reciprical privileges with Frontenac County Library. Interunit Loan, Interlibrary Loan and other services are also provided free. A charge of 25¢ is levied for replacement of lost cards. Members will be asked to "turn-in" their old cards on issuance of the new one. However, if the card has been lost or mislaid, the new one will be issued without penalty this time only! It is hoped to have all regular members supplied with the new card by September/86 after which time the old cards will become non-usable. Summer Reading Program: This year the Rideau Lakes Union will set up its own summer reading program. The theme will be "WE ARE THE WORLD" and will focus on the diverse groups which make up Canada's people. Book lists are being compiled for various age levels about the multitude of cultures of the world, as well as those who are "different".Bookmarks. colouring sheets, questionnaires, etc will be distributed to children enrolling in the program and small prizes will be given to those who complete the program. A minimum of six visits during the months of July and August will be a basic requirement along with a minimum of six books to be read from the lists compiled. It is hoped to make this program interesting and challenging to all the young people in the area. More information later. Book Sale Bonanza: ' Once again the Annual Book Sale will attract browsers and book-lovers to Elgin. Set for July 12, 1986 (designated by the newly formed Chamber of Commerce as ELGIN DAY) it is hoped to offer an even greater selection than in previous years. If you are clearing out shelves of well-read (or even never-read) books, we have a spot for them! Call P. Little at 359-5315 any Monday or Tuesday and arrangements for pickâ€"up or drop-off will be arranged. PLEASE: if the books are badly damaged. heavily mildewed etc. we would appreciate NOT receiving them. Books damaged by water or mildew unfortunately must be disposed of as 3. mm LEEDS LANTERN page 21 ELGIN LIONS CLUB at Rideau District High School Saturday, April 5,1986 Tickets: $15.00 Per Couple dancinq from 9 p.m. to i am. to the great country sounds of Houston Licenced under Special Ocassion Permit Complimentary Buffet Available they are usually unusable and can affect other print material. Some new books, suitable for gifts will also be offered at unbeatable low prices. Mark the date on your summer activity list and plan to stock up on your reading for the year! July 12, l986â€"Book Sale! Volunteers: Each of the Union branches has at least one regular volunteer to assist the librarian either in routine work, covering time-off or in special projects. Portland Branch has the services of Mrs. M. Reddy offering Storyâ€"Time to preschoolers while Mrs. B. Scovil, Ms. P. Fry and Mrs. D. McManus assist during school visits. One area which lacks assistance is the Shutâ€"In program which we would like to see underway before the Fall of the year. If you know of anyone who would appreciate an "at-home" service, either by visitor or mail, please let your branch librarian know. While many patrons can negotiate the visit to the library in the finer weather, several find it increasingly difficult to get out in the winter months. Mrs. H. Simpson is providing some service to theSeeley’s Bay Lodge residents in Seeley's Bay. Perhaps there are other areas which could use additional service? Your suggestions will be most appreciated as the Board‘s aim is to meet the needs of all residents wishing to use the various servTces of the Union Libraries. In Sprig, a young man'suffancy Turns To . . . . . . . CARSV.’ (A certain "young" man in his “fanciful days" - Do you know who?)