25 June 2013

New Edgewater Public Library, Getting the Kinks Out

Well, I have visited the brand - spankin' - new Edgewater Public Library the first two, full days since it debuted this past Saturday morning.  So far, it has been rather chaotic, at least, for the library staff.

At the opening, it was mentioned that a "Cyber Navigator" would be available to help the uninitiated find their way through the Web. Well, there isn't a navigator yet, except, for some patrons who step in and help out as best they can, whenever someone  gets stuck.  I observed one very frustrated newbie try to retrieve an online coupon from Old Country Buffet by lassoing a staff member who, unfortunately, was unable to offer one - on - one instructions because of other demands associated with her job (such as, leading group tours of the building). 

Still, all in all, it has been a positive experience for me, to explore the CPL's newest digs.  Today, I even checked out 3 books about East Indian cuisine.  As a patron, I know that the current problems will be ironed out and the new library will be well - utilized.

That being said, Edgewater probably won't be my primary location.  From a personal perspective, I will likely stick with Sulzer (N. Lincoln & W. Montrose) simply because I feel that the staff there are more on the ball, and the library opens at 9:00 A.M. Monday through Saturday; and at 1:00 P.M. on Sundays.   Plus, at Edgewater, they make it a hassle to pay for, and print, documents. And only ONE of their two registers accepts payment for printouts.   At Sulzer you, conveniently,  pay for your documents at the second floor reference desk and retrieve them from one, of several, printers this branch provides to its patrons.  There are also far more computers available for use at the Lincoln Square branch.  Over a hundred!  So, there are pros and cons at the new Edgewater library.  Service has always been an issue there, and still is.

Jackie

A Reminder:  At all CPL's, while use of the computers is FREE,  printouts are 15 cents per page!


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