Library Director's Blog

Morningstar Investment Research Center

2012-01-24T13:57:00.001-08:00

If you invest in stocks, mutual funds or ETF’s you know that Morningstar is a trusted name in investment advice. For years EWML carried their printed newsletter and it was very popular. Now we subscribe to their online database providing comprehensive data and analysis of over 35,000 investments. Why the switch to online? The data is real time, not one month old as with the paper version and patrons can access the database from home, 24/7.
If you are new to the online format there are many tools available to help you. The Help & Education tab of the database offers a new tutorial center. Users can get a video overview of each area of the database and determine which tabs or tools they’d like to use. Not interested in a video? There are several PDF’s to read at your own pace. You can research specific investment goals from the portfolio tab such as “Find your Money Baseline” or Retirement Planning.” Use the help and education tab for specific investment topics such as socially responsible investing, exchange-traded funds, and options. The help and education tab also contains the glossary and methodologies section, where users can look up terms and understand Morningstar’s ratings. The Portfolio X-Ray is a really nice tool for users to look at their investments in-depth, and see how they are diversifying their investments.
Also available are monthly training webinars on the first Thursday of each month at 11:00 am, Central Time. You can register for the webinar and participate at home or come in and our reference librarians will help you attend by using a library computer. As always, our reference librarians can help you with this database or with one of the many others we offer, free of charge. Just call the reference desk at 203 452-2850 #6 for help.

Ebooks? We Can Help!

2011-12-12T12:40:00.001-08:00

EWML is now a member of the Overdrive Advantage program. What is that you say?

Overdrive is the service that our library shares with other Bibliomation libraries that provides ebooks and downloadable audio books. That means Monroe patrons are part of a larger pool of the 48 member libraies using this service. Free ebooks are very popular, and often there are waiting lists for new titles. The Advantage program allows EWML to purchase more copies of popular titles and add titles that can only be used by Monroe patrons. If you see this logo next to the title you are interested in, make sure you sign in as a Monroe library patron.

If you are not using Overdrive now is the time! Many people will receive new ereaders, IPods, IPads and other electronic devices this Christmas. Let our library reference librarians help you use them. Just give us a call or come in with your device and we will get you started. Don't forget, your Kindle is now compatible with Overdrive.

PrepMe is Back!

2011-10-14T13:20:00.001-07:00

Thanks to the Friends of the Library, the SAT and ACT test preperation database, PrepMe is back! The library had to drop this popular database because of budget cuts but the Friends are using their funds to restore it.
PrepMe is a premium online SAT preparation course founded by graduates of top schools such as Caltech, the University of Chicago and Stanford. Their course will identify your strenghts and weaknesses and create a custom week-by-week schedule for you to help raise your scores.
You may access PrepMe by going to the library database webpage www.ewml.org/databases You need your library barcode number to access the site, and will then be asked to create your own ID and password to create a test program customized to you.
PrepMe is just one of the databases the libray offers. Please check us out!

What's new?

2011-09-22T07:21:00.000-07:00

So many things have been happening in the library this summer. I am happy to welcome some new staff members: Lauren Balla is the new Children's Assistant replacing Maureen Pihonak who just retired; Michelle Turbak takes over for Joan Clark at the Reference Desk and Nicole Cignoli is replacing Karen Recine at Reference who also retired. You will see some new faces at Circulation if you come in on Sunday. Evelyn Platt and Barbara Pringle join our Sunday team. Sunday hours, 12:00 - 4:00 pm start on October 2.
As we start the Fall season I am excited about a raffle the Friends of the Library are holding starting on October 3 and running until November 14. Three quilts created by the Connecticut Piecemakers Quilt Guild are being raffled.Tickets are $1 and can be purchased in the library. The quilts will be on display near the Adult magazines. I hope you will support the library by purchasing a ticket. All proceeds will be used to purchase books for the library, and do we need the help! The library book budget was cut by $10,000 this year so buy those tickets! Thank you to the kind members of the Piecemakers Quilt Guild who made the quilts for us. They are really beautiful.

Summer Update

2011-07-19T12:09:00.000-07:00

We have finally settled down after migrating library records to our new system, BibliOak. If you are experiencing any problems please call our Reference Desk. We will be glad to help.
Bibliomation, the library ILS (integrated library system) provider is still busy migrating Bridgeport Public Library and the public schools into the system. When they are finished they will begin working on enhancements to the current operating system. If there is anything missing in the new system that you would like restored please let us know and we will put it on our "wish list". Please note that Monroe is one of over 50 libraries and 24 schools in the Bibliomation consortium so there are bound to be a lot of requests.
Summer Reading - on a very happy note - we have enrolled record numbers of our patrons in children's, teen, and adult summer reading. The library is busier than ever, and thanks to the Wheeler Trust, we are open on Saturday's during the summer. Enjoy your summer and "keep on reading"!

New catalog operational

2011-06-06T06:34:00.001-07:00

Our new circulation and catalog system, BiblioOak, is operational. Access to your accounts, the online catalog, and all library functions are working. There may be a few problems to correct so I am asking for your patience. Please inform library staff if you need help.
When accessing your account online you will be asked to sign on using your library card number and a password. Your password is the last four digets of your phone number. You will then be asked to choose a new password. Be sure to follow the instructions to choose a secure password.
Thank you.

Still Offline

2011-06-01T07:35:00.000-07:00

It's Wednesday morning and we had planned to be operational on our new catalog, BiblioOak, but unfortunately that has not happened. Moving the bibliographic records of over 50 libraries, statewide, has proven to be more difficult than anticipated.
We are still operating offline, which means our patrons can take materials out, but books and other items returned to us can not be entered into the system and then re-shelved until the new catalog is operational. At that time, we will upload all the transactions that have taken place since last Thursday, May 26. We then have to "check-in" the hundreds of items that have been piling up in our back offices.
This is a difficult time for all of us and I ask for your patience and understanding.

New Catalog Update

2011-05-21T06:44:00.000-07:00

We need more time, so the library compter systems will go offline on Thursday May 26 at 8 pm. Holds and renewals will not be available afer 8 pm Thursday and won't be available until Tuesday, May 31 at 10:00 am.

On Friday, May 27 the library will be operating offline. Please remember to bring your library card with you as we will be unable to lookup your information. New registrations, paying fines and other housekeeping items will have to wait until Tuesday, May 31.

To access your new library account, when you log in the first time - if the last four digits of your phone number do not work, try four zeros (0000). Email notification for holds, overdues, etc. may not work immediately. Please report any problems or incorrect fines to the library staff.

Thank you.

New Catalog System

2011-05-10T12:14:00.000-07:00

Our library is getting a new circulation/catalog system

The library will be closed over the Memorial Day weekend on Saturday, Sunday, and Monday, May 28-30. On Friday, May 27 at 3 pm you will no longer be able to place holds or renew items online.

On Tuesday, May 31, the library's new system will be operational. The online catalog will look different, but you will still have access to your account, including any lists you have saved in our former online catalog. Items that were returned in our bookdrop over the weekend will be checked back in and will not incurr any incorrect fines.

To access your new online account , you will need to use your library card number as your user name. Your default password will be the last four digits of your phone number. You will be prompted to change your password the first time you log in.

The new catalog features a simple-to-use basic serach and a robust advanced search. Placing holds will no longer require entering your library card for each hold. Accessing the resources of the other libraries in our network has been streamlined, so the materials of over 50 other public libraries are a click away.
If you have your email address on file with the library, you will automatically get alerts when your items are about to be due. You will also get hold notices and overdue notices in your email.
Please be patient with library staff as we learn and navigate through this new system. Having your library card with you will help us serve you faster.
Thank you.

A Big Thank You!

2011-04-21T08:12:00.000-07:00

The library staff just hosted our annual Volunteer Appreciation Party. It's just one small way to say thank you to the many volunteers that help keep our library running. Without our volunteers, the library would not be able to offer as many services as we do now with their help. Our volunteers shelve books, process interlibrary loan books, help with publicity, process new books, update the collection, and help with programs. They do so much it is impossible to list everything! And let's not forget the Friends of the Library! Their efforts provide the funds for concerts, children's programs, books, and so much more!
The Monroe community is full of kind and generous people who work with almost no recognition. Our small party is just a token of our appreciation.
Margaret Borchers
Library Director

Want ebooks?

2011-04-01T10:06:00.000-07:00

A very nice gentleman called me to complain that the library ebook service, Overdrive, did not contain titles representing a certain topic that he was interested in. I explained to him that our library is just starting to build a collection of ebooks and it would take some time to build the collection to a point where it adequately met the needs of the Monroe community. Not to be trite, but this does not happen overnight. The library print collection of over 80,000 books took many years to acquire.

My caller understood, and I offered to include some of his suggested titles in a future ebook order. To my surprise, the next day, he introduced himself at the library circulation desk and handed me a check for $100 for ebooks. "Let's make this the start of a campagin for Monroe residents to help the library get more ebooks", he said. So I am putting out the call for donations: Want ebooks, please donate!

The library's book budget for fiscal year 2011-2012 has been cut by $10,000 (15%). At a time when we should be leaping ahead with the new technologies we are instead forced to go backwards. Please help if you can. For more on the library ebook collection and how to access it from your home computer please come to the Monroe Technology Fair on Saturday, May 21. You are also welcome to inquire at the Reference Desk whenever the library is open.

Libraries Cut Once Again

2011-03-01T07:15:00.000-08:00

Governor Malloy has made cuts in the CT State Library budget that will have a devastating effect on two of this state's most cost-effective methods of resource sharing. Connecticard is the program that allows a library card holder to borrow books from any library in the state. Connecticar is a system of vans that support the Connecticard program by moving the books between libraries. It allows patrons who may not be able to travel themselves to pick up an item to have it delivered to their hometown library. This service allows access to almost all of the books residing in the 169 municipalities in our state, including the academic libraries.

Last year, patrons of the Edith Wheeler Memorial Library borrowed 27,095 items from other libraries and conversely, 31, 531 items belonging to Monroe were loaned to non-residents. Connecticard provides a reimbursement payment to cover part of the cost of providing these materials. Over 20,000 of these items traveled through the Connecticar van system. On the state level, over 2 million items were transported between libraries.

Isn't this what our political leaders have been asking us to do, share resources? Our State Library has had this system in place for many years, and to lose it for less than the $1 million being saved in the budget is ridiculous. If the libraries in CT lose these two vital services it will isolate them from each other and force duplicate purchases. Connecticard and Connecticar allow libraries to share across town lines.

I ask the governor and his staff to take another look at the cuts in the State Library budget. If you believe these services are worthwhile I ask you to contact the governor and your local representatives and ask them to restore the cuts to the library budget.

Cupcake Love

2011-02-03T11:21:00.000-08:00

Decorate cupcakes for your valentine with us on Sunday, Feb. 13 from 1:00-3:00 pm. Everyone is invited, children are welcome with a parent's help. A $3.00 donation is requested to help with supplies. Each person can decorate four cupcakes. We provide a box for you to take them home. We have lots of candy hearts and special fixins for you to make some beautiful creations!

Costco is helping by donating some of the cupcakes, so let them know you appreciate the support they give to our library.

With all the snow, ice and related stress we are all experiencing; come to the library on Sunday, Feb. 13 and enjoy yourself!

Overdues & Snow

2011-01-25T08:34:00.000-08:00

If your library items are due and it's snowing or the roads are bad, give us a call. We will renew them or make arrangements so you are not charged a fine. Can't get through on the phone? When you bring your overdue items back just mention to a staff member that they are late because of bad weather. You must tell the staff, or the fine will go on automatically.
We don't want you to put yourself in danger just to get your library items back on time.

On a happier note: If you are stuck in the house by bad weather you can access library databases and the library catalog on the internet. The libary homepage is http://www.ewml.org/
Find new databases here: http://www.ewml.org/databases.htm
Morningstar - an all-inclusive database providing comprehensive data and analysis of over 35,000 investments including stocks, mutual funds and exchange-traded funds. It's the one-stop tool for collecting information, getting reliable analysis, learning about investments, and creating a portfolio.
BYKI - is an online language-learning system available for over 70 languages. It offers simple steps to memorize words and phrases in a new language, including their meaning and proper pronunciation, in the shortest possible time. First create an account at the library, then you will be able to access BYKI Online from any computer with internet access.
Reference USA - An Internet-based service offering access to a database of millions of businesses and consumers. Students, job seekers and researchers can use this tool to create marketing plans, conduct analysis, raise funds, locate people and more.

If you need help or have questions, just call our Reference Desk at 203 452-2850 #6

Open on Sunday!

2010-11-08T10:58:00.000-08:00

Margaret Borchers, Director of the Edith Wheeler Memorial Library, is pleased to announce that the library will be open on Sundays from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. beginning December 5, 2010 through May. The training of additional staff required a late start this fall, but in the future the Sunday opening will begin in early October. In addition, the Saturday hours will continue throughout the year with no summer closings.

The expansion of library hours is made possible by the generosity of the Library Board of Directors. As beneficiaries of the Wheeler Trust, the board has the authority to supplement the normal budgetary amount received by the library from the Town if that budget limits the purchase of needed items or operating expenses. The trust is not to be used to replace Monroe’s budgetary contribution, but rather, to enhance it when necessary.

For some time the Director and board members have been aware that limited hours restricted many residents from access to the library. The intention of the Wheeler Trust was to provide a “state of the art” facility for the use and convenience for Monroe residents; expanding operating hours allows an increase of services, which the library staff and board members are proud to offer.

Thanks a Bunch!

2010-09-17T11:46:00.000-07:00

Jim Lazor & Troup 62 created the new garden at the library back entrance last month. Thanks Jim for all your hard work in preparation for the Eagle Scout Award.

The garden looks great!

Two New Databases

2010-07-28T11:05:00.000-07:00

Thanks to the generosity of the Edith Wheeler Trust we have two new databases!

BYKI (before you know it) is a powerful language-learning system designed specifically for use by the patrons of public libraries. BYKI takes the user through a series of simple steps to memorize words and phrases in a new language in the shortest possible time. Available for learning over 80 languages, patrons can access the system from inside the library or at home. BYKI has advanced pronunciation analysis to help users perfect their pronunciation skills and individual progress tracking and assessment tests. You can even download a free app to access BYKi on your mobile phone, IPad, or Ipod!

Reference USA is a business resource database for job seekers, job changers, small business owners and market researchers. It has a detailed listing of 10.5 million businesses with the ability to search by company name, type of business, geography, business size and more.

Search for jobs by job skills, location and industry

Find new business opportunities

Research executives & companies worldwide

Track down addresses and phone numbers

Find new articles for research

Locate out-of-town companies

Research a neighborhood before you buy a house

The Reference staff at the library can give you more information or show you how to use these two new databases and the many other databases the library offers. Access them from the library homepage at www.ewml.org

Library Book Sale at Masuk

2010-07-09T06:40:00.000-07:00

Don't miss the annual Friends of the Library Booksale at Masuk High School starting Saturday, July 10-14, 10:00 am - 6:00 pm daily. Admission is free, except for early birds on Sat. at 9:00 who pay $10 to be the first in the door.
Books are sorted into categories to make it easier for you to find your favorites. There must be over 100,000 books! The Masuk cafeteria is filled to capacity.
Monday & Tuesday sale prices are in effect.
Wednesday all books are free. Come early on Wednesday the sale ends at 1:00 pm.

Summer Reading starts with a Splash!

2010-06-21T10:46:00.000-07:00

We had a ball on Saturday, June 19, with the start of Summer Reading and Chalk It Up2. Over 300 kids, teens, and adults signed up for summer reading, and 296 people participated in our chalk drawing contest. Wow! Make sure you stop by the library soon, before it rains to view all the chalk drawings on our sidewalk.

To see a list of the winners click here

Teen Digital Photo Winners!

2010-05-13T13:47:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to the winners in the EWML Teen Photo Contest! The winners and their photos are on the library teen webpage at:http://www.ewml.org/teens.htm so take a look!

Special thanks go out to the contest judges who donated their time and talents. They are Pat Grabarz, Jon Aspinwall and Eph Tobin. Special thanks to Pat Grabarz who framed a copy of each photo as a gift for the winners.

New benches for the library!

2010-05-06T12:02:00.000-07:00

Kevin Hein has completed his Eagle Scout project of placing two 4 ft. hardwood benches in front of the library. These benches provide a pleasant place to wait for a ride, read a book, or chat with friends. They are a welcome addition to our library and I want to thank Kevin for his fine work in providing them. One of the benches is placed near the library front entrance and uses the front porch to provide cover from the rain, the other bench is closer to the parking lot and out in the sun to catch those nice warming rays on beautiful days, such as we are enjoying today. Thank you Kevin for seeing a need, researching your project, and carrying it through.

The library is the best place for...

2010-04-14T10:58:00.000-07:00

I'm watching the Today Show before starting off for work, and Matt Lauer is interviewing a Consumer Reports spokesperson. They are talking about the Federal program of rebates for new energy star appliances. The CR guy says you can apply online for the rebate, and Matt says "what if you don't have a computer, or don't know how to find the rebate?" and the CR person says: (drumroll please) Go to the library. They can help you.
How right he is! In case you are looking for that rebate just go to: http://www.appliancerebate.com/StateMap.aspx?aid=-1&gclid=CIubhb_hhqECFciA5QodM3NOxA
or come in the library and we will help you find it.
On another note, this is National Library Week, so visit your library to find out what other great things are happening.
We are honoring our Library Volunteers today with a reception, for all the great work they do for us through the year. Thank you, we appreciate it!

Celebrate National Library Week!

2010-04-06T12:48:00.000-07:00

April 11-17 is National Library Week and we have a lot to celebrate at the Edith Wheeler Memorial Library in Monroe!
Poetry Slams for kids and teens take place on Saturday, April 10; 10:30 am for kids, 1:00 pm for teens.
Author Nora Baskin visits on Wednesday, April 14 from 4:30 to 5:30 to talk about her new book, Anything But Typical. We are serving pizza so come on over. Please register by calling 203 452-2850, or on our webpage, http://www.ewml.org/ so we know how much pizza to order.
Story Times are held on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday so check our schedule and come on over. Our story times are drop-in, no need to register.
Do you know about our:
Museum passes - free and reduced admission to over 20 museums & parks in our area.
Our DVD's & Videos are loaned for 7 days, and they are free!
We just added a new investment database, Morningstar. Come in, or access it from home on our database webpage.
Keep up-to-date with library happenings by signing up for the library email mailing list. It's right on the top of our homepage.
Downloadable E-Books have arrived at EWML!

If you havn't been to the library lately you don't know what your missing!

Post your flyers here!

2010-03-04T10:44:00.001-08:00

Your local business, services, and personal notices may now be posted at the library on the Community Services and Local Businesses Bulletin Board. We receive many such notices each week, which I have been unable to post on our events bulletin board because of policy restrictions. Now, by opening a new board, I hope to better serve our Monroe residents by offering a place for such announcements and notices. Space is limited on this board, and we do have some rules, so I hope that things go well. So bring in your lost/found, garage sale, and advertisements of services or products. Please leave your notice at the Circulation Desk for approval and posting.

On just one day

2010-02-23T11:27:00.000-08:00

Last Thursday, Feb. 18, our library participated in a statewide program, Snapshot Day, to document and promote the services libraries provide every day. So we counted, took pictures, and asked our patrons for comments on what the library means to them.

On just one day...

384 people visited the library

651 items where checked out

437 people visited our website

25 new cards were issued

4 programs were held and 46 people attended them

37 people used our computers

31 people got help at the reference desk

201 people answered our survey and some of the comments included:
"The library is a bargin!"
"Our family can go and find out about anything. If the library doesn't have the answer, they know where to find it!"
"If it wasn't for the library, my parents couldn't afford to keep me in books."
"It is the backbone of our community."
"A place to collect my thoughts - a quiet time for myself & my daughters."
"Best resource in town"
"Because it's free!"
"It is the most important thing any town can offer its taxpayers"
"It provides amazing educational activities, books, programs, at no extra cost"
"In this community it is a social center, resource center, place where my children can find books, friends, and things to do. WE LOVE THIS PLACE"
"It (library) is a beautiful, vibrant , friendly and kid favorite place for my two boys. It is a wonderful resource for our family and it brings a tremendous amount of joy to us all!"

And I could go on, but you get the idea.
So what does all this mean to me? The silent majority speaks! Our library is a vibrant, vital part of Monroe. We (library staff) are doing a great job and our patrons appreciate it.
If you missed an opportunity to let us know how you feel, please speak up!

To see some more photos of our library patrons visit:http://www.flickr.com/photos/ctlibrariessnapshot2010/sets/72157623343970477/

Thank you to the Connecticut Library Association, the Connecticut State Library, and the Connecticut Library Consortium for coordinating this project. Visit the Snapshot website for more results at http://snapshotctlib.wordpress.com/

Morningstar Trial

2010-02-10T06:11:00.000-08:00

Morningstar Investment Research Center
The library has a free trial to this online database page until March 15. We are considering dumping our paper version of Morningstar in favor of this online version which offers much more than the paper subscription. Try it by going to the library database page at www.ewml.org/databases.htm
You can connect from home or at the library
Login and password information is in the Business and Finance section of our database page.
Call the reference desk at 203 452-2850 #6 if you have trouble connecting
Let me know what you think after you try it at mborchers@ewml.org
The online version offers data and analysis on over 11,000 international and domestic stocks, 24,000 mutual funds and over 800 exchange traded funds.

2010-01-27T08:48:00.000-08:00

On Thursday, February 18, 2010, libraries all over Connecticut will be taking a 'snapshot"-collecting information to capture the impact that Connecticut libraries have on their communities on a typical day. We're calling it 'Snapshot Day.'

At the Edith Wheeler Memorial Library we will be asking our patrons to comment on what their library means to them and taking pictures to submit, along with libraries all over the stare, to the Snapshot Flickr page.

Snapshot Day is a joint project of the Connecticut Library Association, the Connectucut State Library and the Connecticut Library Consortium. The aim is to encourage libraries all over CT to collect basic data-how many people use the library on a given day, how many people use computers, attend programs, etc. Connecticut's libraries are busier that ever these days, with people coming not only to check out books, but use computers, look for a job, or attend the many programs our libraries offer. All across the state, libraries are the cornerstones of their communities, places were people come together to visit, learn and share ideas.

SAT Help - Free

2010-01-21T11:09:00.000-08:00

Did you know you can get free online help to prepare for the SAT test?

Getting help to study for the SATs can be prohibitively expensive. That is why it is important to know that the Edith Wheeler Memorial Library pays for PrepMe, an online SAT study service that is FREE to all library cardholders. Just link to the PrepMe database and create an account using your library barcode. The database will administer a diagnostic test and then ask you to enter your planned testing date. By assessing your strengths and weaknesses from your pre-test, the system then creates a customized course for you that includes lessons, quizzes, full length practice tests, and feedback. Follow your personalized schedule to learn the skills you need to perform well on the SAT. To link to PrepMe, go to our Teen Databases page online or call the Reference Desk for help. If you live in Monroe and do not have a local library card, be sure to stop by the library with identification and get your card at no cost.

Spending Freeze and Budget Cut

2010-01-07T07:10:00.000-08:00

I'm sorry to have to report to you that a spending freeze has been instituted for the library and all other Town Hall Departments by the order of the First Selectman and as a result the library will be unable to order any materials until further notice.

The acquisition of the latest bestsellers and other new books, movies, etc. will be delayed until this freeze is lifted.

In addition to the freeze, the library has been instructed to return 1% of its operating budget to the Town. As a result, our book, DVD, music, and audiobook budgets have been reduced. No new audiobooks can be purchased until the next fiscal year, and new book, movie, and music purchases will be limited.

Donations will be greatly appreciated during this difficult time.

Changes coming...

2009-12-18T11:18:00.000-08:00

We have to make some changes-starting in January:
1. DVD & Videos will now be loaned for 7 days - no renewals
2. Reserves on new DVD's will not be allowed.
3. Magazines will now be loaned for 3 weeks - 1 renewal
Hopefully these changes will allow a quicker turn-around of our video materials and allow more patrons to access them. If you can return your materials before the 7 day loan period is over that would be helpful. As always, your input and comments are welcome.
Margaret

Coupons & such

2009-12-08T11:52:00.001-08:00

We have a coupon exchange that is very popular. Take some, bring some is the policy.
We also have an ongoing jigsaw puzzle out, so puzzle fans should take a minute to put a piece in, or two!
We have some exciting programs planned for after the holidays so keep an eye on our calendar, and Oh!
Merry Christmas!

CT Science Museum

2009-11-09T08:40:00.000-08:00

We just received coupons for 20% off the admission price to the new Connecticut Science Museum in Hartford. They are free to EWML cardholders, one per person please. The coupon may be used at anytime, and expires in May 2010. We have a limited number of coupons so please get one if you plan on visiting the museum before 5/31/2010.
The library offers many other museum passes, courtesy of the Friends of the Edith Wheeler Memorial Library. See what we offer online at: http://www.ewml.org/passes.htm
Enjoy!

Picturing America

2009-10-28T13:24:00.000-07:00

EWML will be celebrating our National Endowment for the Humanities grant - Picturing America -this coming January and February. We are so excited! Exhibited in the Ehlers Room will be selected high quality reproductions of masterpieces of American art that bring us face to face with the people, places, and events that have shaped our country. The images are just a small sample of significant works. They serve as a starting point for learning about our nation's history and artistic legacy.

In addition to the exhibit in the Ehlers Room, and in collaboration with art instructor Cathy Vincent, the library will be offering a series of six free workshops that use selected works in the Picturing America collection. Cathy created these workshops to explore your own creative talents, and they are for all ages!

For families - use designer fabrics to create a decoupage quilt panel in a valentine theme.

For teens - Funky Fabrics -participants will enlarge, crop, and alter textile design motifs to create fun and funky works of art.

For adults - escape into an abstract landscape painting workshop using tempra and acrylic on canvas. Wine and cheese will be served to get your creative juices flowing.

For kids - make some clay pots, design a "family snapshot" collage, and along with a parent, create a self-portrait.

Watch for more information on our events calendar and posted in the library. Register early. These programs will fill up fast.

Book our meeting room online

2009-10-07T13:30:00.000-07:00

Groups wishing to use the library meeting room may now apply online. Check for room availability, read our meeting room policy and then fill out the application. Once your application is approved you will receive a confimation by email. If you have any questions please email or call our Reference Desk at 452-2850 #6 or reference@ewml.org

Looking for a boat!

2009-09-25T12:31:00.000-07:00

Do you have a wooden boat (aluminum would work but wood is better) you could lend us for a few months next summer. We are busy planning summer reading for next year and the theme is water. We would love a boat to decorate the Children's Room. If you have one that we could borrow, let me know. Don't worry about it's condition, we will deal with it. Ahoy!

Need help with job seeking?

2009-08-06T10:28:00.000-07:00

JobNow is the library's new online access to free expert job coaching. Patrons can access this new service from the computers in the library or from home using their library barcode number. Connect one-on-one to a trained job coach for assistance in the job search process. The coaches are available to help patrons with any and all job search related questions. All coaches possess 4-year college degrees, must undergo a rigorous selection and training process, and must complete a full background and security check. In addition to helping beginning job seekers pinpoint their desired career field, coaches can also provide constructive suggestion on resumes, help write a professional cover letter, and give live interview practice and feedback.

Don't have time for live resume help? Simply submit your resume at any time of day through the JobNow Resume Lab and a job coach will send it back to you within 24 hours with detailed feedback and suggestions for imporvement.
To access JobNow follow the link on the library homepage or call the library Reference Desk for help.

Harry Potter

2009-07-22T12:59:00.000-07:00

I just saw the new Harry Potter movie and loved it! I think I will re-read the last book. I could use a "good fix" of anything Hogwarts and my new phrase anytime I have a problem will be: "What would Dumbledore do?"

Museum Passes

2009-07-08T11:51:00.001-07:00

Looking for something to do this summer? The libray has a number of museum passes available for Monroe residents to borrow. To see a list of passes go to: http://www.ewml.org/passes.htm
The Friends of the Library purchase these passes for us. Thanks Friends!

Donations to the library

2009-06-24T13:05:00.000-07:00

Did you know the library receives donations all the time? Each is acknowledged with a thank you letter and then recorded in the Library Director's monthly report to the Library Board of Trustees and the First Selectman. Our patrons though, don't read that report. Now, each month, a list of doners will be posted at the Circulation Desk, over by the book return slot. Gifts to the library help in so many ways. Many thanks to people who donate as a memorial gift, for a birthday, or just because they love our library so much!

Join our email mailing list!

2009-06-24T12:20:00.000-07:00

Receive news of our events and programs by joining the library mailing list. You will receive news on only those topics that interest you. Try it! You can un-subscribe at any time. Join by going to our homepage - fill in your email address at the top/right of our page.

What happened to the power?

2009-06-22T08:05:00.000-07:00

On Friday, June 19 the library lost power in the late morning. The emergengy generator was able to supply emergency power but main lights and all the computers were down. The library was forced to close for the afternoon. We are up and running again (Monday morning) and I apologize for any inconvenience this has caused our patrons. Fines will not be charged for items due on Friday, and please report any problems with your library accounts to the Circulation staff to have them corrected. Thank you.

Congratulations Joan!

2009-06-11T13:48:00.000-07:00

Joan Clark was awarded a Individual Achievement Award in the Employee Recognitions Award Ceremony on June 11, 2009 by First Selectman Tom Buzi. Congratulations Joan for your excellent service to the library and the community of Monroe! Joan started working at the library in 2004 as a part-time library aide. She received her Master of Library Science Degree in 2007 and began working as a Reference Librarian at that time. Joan is a very dedicated librarian and she helps everyone who comes to the Reference Desk find what they need. No matter how long it takes or how hard the job, Joan will do it. She, like all members of the library staff, is totally dedicated to excellent service with a smile :>)
She totally deserves this award and we are all so proud of her!

Congratulations to Bill Ehlers

2009-05-07T12:38:00.000-07:00

Bill Ehlers, Chairman of the Library Board of Trustees, was honored by the Rotary Club of Monroe on June 7, 2009 at their annual "Service Above Self Breakfast". Bill was one of three people honored who exemplify the rotary motto, "Service Above Self". The three categories of awards include awards in Education, awarded to Carl Bodnar; Business, awarded to Paul Moyse; and Community, awarded to Bill Ehlers.

Bill Ehlers has been involved for over 20 years with the library and he played a significant role in obtaining the new building named in honor of Edith Wheeler. A Monroe resident since 1968, Bill has been a Cub Scout and Boy Scout leader, served on the school bus committee and been involved with flag football. He served with Habitat for Humanity in Mexico and he volunteers at St. Stephens Church. He loves boating, golf,and reading (of course!).

Thank you Bill for your service to the community and especially to the library.

Teen Photo Contest Winners!

2009-04-03T14:27:00.001-07:00

Congratulations to the winners of our Teen Photo Contest! You may see them by linking to:
http://www.ewml.org/teenphotos.htm

A big thank you also to Eph Tobin and Jon Aspinwall of the Greater Bridgeport Camera Club for judging; and to Pat Grabarz for framing the winners.
Lorna Rhyins organized the photo contest and she was so impressed with all of the entries that she is planning to run it again next year so save your photos.

Library Elf & overdue notices

2009-03-30T12:04:00.000-07:00

I't almost April and time to stop mailing overdue notices!
Please sign up for Library Elf. Library Elf's premium service is available to all Monroe library patrons free of charge. EWML subscribes to this service to help our patrons keep track of their library items. Go to www.libraryelf.com to subscribe.
Happy Spring everyone!

"EWML at Night"

2009-03-04T07:19:00.000-08:00

On behalf of Bob and Antoinette Cargill, Cargill Photo of Monroe recently donated the photographic print "EWML at Night" to the Edith Wheeler Memorial Library. This print shows the front entrance of the library at sunset with the interior lighting of the library in striking contrast to the darkening sky. Bob and Antoinette "feel this image shows the inner glow of knowledge that permeates this beautiful building and will provide a place for learning and sharing knowledge for generations to come". Framing for the photo is the gift of Eric Peterson and Kosal Eang of Creative Framing, 150 Main St. Monroe.

The Cargills have two sons and six grandchildren. Mr. Cargill is active in the community and serves, or has served on, the Monroe Chamber of Commerce, Monroe Business Directory Committee, Monroe Rotary Club, Monroe Health Dept., St. Peter's Vestry, Boy Scout Troop 62 committeeman and Photo Merit Badge councilor. Cargill Photo provides services in aerial, advertising, commercial and industrial photography with specialties in glass, bright metal, close-up photography and plane-to-plane photography.

As Library Director I am very pleased to accept this handsome gift. The area I have chosen to hang it also includes the oil painting of the first library, built of brick and dedicated in 1958, it stood adjacent to the old Monroe Town Hall. With these two images close together, our patrons can see the history of library service in Monroe and be proud of the commitment of this community to learning, knowledge, and freedom of information. Bob and Antionette are good friends to the library and Monroe as evidenced by this gift.

Library Elf -what is this?

2009-02-03T08:33:00.000-08:00

Library Elf is a free service that allows library users to:
Receive email notices of items BEFORE they are due
Be notified of reserves as they become available
View the due dates of various items in a calendar format

Many of our EWML patrons use library elf and they love it! So does the library staff, because users of library elf are less likely to have overdue books. The email reminders are sent out before your books & movies are overdue. You can then go online and renew them yourself, or give the library a call and we will do that for you. Library Elf saves the staff from having to make phone calls about reserves and overdues. We love it.

Please give it a try. Their website, if you want to sign up, is: www.libraryelf.com

What's new?

2009-01-22T08:42:00.000-08:00

1/22/07
Local Links page is up!
Looking for information on Monroe sports, education, business, or clubs? Need help with social services, or health? Want to find out about the arts in Monroe? Just go to the EWML Local Links Page at: http://www.ewml.org/ (look for Local Links on the left)
Reference Librarian Karen Recine spent months gathering and double checking this information, and Reference Librarian Joan Clark crafted the webpage. Congratulations to them both for a job well done!

Live Stream Broadcast of the Inauguration
The Friends of EWML gave the library a laptop computer (our first) and we used it to live stream the Inauguration of Barack Obama in the Ehlers Community Room on Jan. 20. Over 40 residents watched our 44th President get sworn in, and for me, it was made more memorable and poignant by being among friends and co-workers.

Portrait of Edith Wheeler

2008-12-15T14:00:00.000-08:00

Bill Lee and Marie Lederer stand next to the portrait of Edith Wheeler presented to the library on December 9, 2008. Bill painted the portrait from a photo of Ms. Wheeler provided by Marie Lederer. Bill Lee, a resident of Trumbull and a graduate of the Yale School of Art, is a frequent patron of our library and was very excited to take on this new project. The Library Board of Trustees and the library staff are very excited and happy to have this new addition to the library. To learn more about Edith Wheeler visit the About Us section of the library webpage at www.ewml.org/libraryhistory.htm