For the past several years, we have been using time management software on our public computers in order to ensure that all patrons can get fair use of the computers. The timers were designed to allow as many who want to to use the computers. However, as those of our frequent users know, the software was not without its problems. We often were faced with error messages, blocks on the CD-Rom and your flash drives, sound which had no volume, and timers which simply didn’t work. Finally, after months of research, we have finally found a new product which will make using the public computers a more pleasant experience. The following is just a sample of what will happen with the new software:
- Fewer to no error messages that you and the staff can’t understand.
- You will be able to access your CD-Rom and flash drives on all of the computers.
- There will be sound on all of the computers.
- The queuing station will no longer assign the same computer at the same time to two different people.
- If you reserve a two hour computer, no one else will be able to take it from you.
- The system is more user friendly, so in the event there is a problem, staff will be able to assist you much quicker.
Unfortunately, while we get ready for this migration, we need to uninstall the old software and install the new, so we will have no public PC access from May 12 – May 14. For those of you with laptops, our wireless access is still available throughout the whole building. We’re sorry for the inconvenience but we promise it will be worth it.
posted by: Laura
The joint book club between Waltham High School and the Waltham Public Library is ending its fifth year and I couldn’t be more excited. The book club started in the fall of 2003 as a collaboration between high school librarian, Kelly McCollum and myself, back when I was the young adult librarian. The first four years we met after school and read a variety of books. Our most popular books were What’s in a Name by Ellen Wittlinger and Oryx and Crake by Margaret Atwood. I remember our first meeting so vividly when we read Stuck in Neutral by Terry Trueman, and discussed the numerous challenges the book had received at other schools. This inspired a lively discussion about banned and challenged books. I also enjoyed going and meeting teenagers who normally might not have visited the public library. There were a number of our members who became regular public library users after attending book club meetings.
The club has gone some changes over the last few years, and this year, we tried something different. Led by current high school library teacher, Kendall Boninti, the book club now meets during student’s lunch breaks. We have met all year and the new format seems to be working really well. Students who were unable to attend our after school club, can now more easily attend. Teachers have also been attending, and they and the students are able to see different sides of each other. Paula Cerrato, a reference librarian here, has also become involved with the club.
Our most popular book this year, was probably Twilight by Stephanie Meyer, which led to a very enthusiastic discussion among the students. This morning, we held a discussion on Elsewhere by Gabrielle Zevin, which prompted the students to discuss a variety of issues raised in the book. Next month, we will hold our last meeting of the year, but I look forward to continuing this relationship and discussing books with the teenagers of Waltham.
I am grateful to first, Kelly, and now Kendall, as those who have made such great efforts with getting the book club started and keeping it going. It has been very instrumental in strengthening the library’s relationship with the public schools.
posted by: Laura
If you are a Waltham resident with a valid MLN library card, you have access to many interesting library databases which can be used at the library or from home. One very useful database which can be used by students or anyone interested in history is the History Reference Center. All the information found on the database is from reference books, history books, and periodicals. This database is easy to use and may be accessed from home. If you encounter any difficulties or have any questions while accessing this database, please call the reference desk at 781-314-3425. Any reference librarian will be happy to help you !
posted by: Paula
Every month, the library has several different book and audio video displays. On the first floor, we always have at least four book displays, and on the ground floor we have one video/DVD display.
This month’s displays include:
- Hobbies
- Robert Frost
- Poetry
- World War II
- Baseball
So, if you don’t know what to read next, check out our displays, you might find something that interests you.
posted by: Todd
Did you know you can search the Waltham Public Library’s catalog on your phone if you have a mobile phone with web access? You can even request books and view your account using your phone’s web browser.
If you own an iPhone, a Windows Mobile Phone, or a Blackberry, getting the full use of our catalog requires nothing more than using your phone’s built in browser.
If you don’t own one of those mobile phones, but have one that that is Java compatible (which most newer models are), and you subscribe to your carrier’s web service, you can download the web browser Opera Mini for free. If you choose to download this program, you do so at your own risk. Like all programs, make sure that you research it before installing it.
posted by: Todd
Do you enjoy solving mysteries? If so, we could use your help! The Waltham Room has a new display of photographs called “Orphans.” These are five photos we can’t quite identify, either who’s in them or where they were taken. They include formal shots of a young man, a minister, an elderly man, a group photo and a trolley car making its run. If you’d like to try to see if your “memory serves,” stop by the Waltham Room soon. The display is right outside in the wall cabinet, facing the Library’s front doors.
We have three of the five images posted online. Click the images below for a larger view.
1. 
2. Was this one of our local ministers? (Photographed by Allen & Rowell’s, Boston. ca. 1874-92)
3. An elderly man, photographed by E.? Chickering (possibly Elmer of 21 West St., Boston) . 1904.
posted by: Janice
Image taken from Phil Moore’s photos on Flickr.com.
If you’re a big reader, there is no better place to go than the public library, of course. However, if you’re also a big web user, there are many ways online that you can share your love for reading with readers everywhere. There are two websites that are great for this.
- Library Thing
You can put all of the books that you read on this website, by creating lists and even cataloging them. Library Thing also allows you to view lists from other readers with similar interests. I first heard about this site from some librarian friends of mine who swear by it.
- BookCrossing
A fellow employee here at the WPL first brought this site to my attention. The object of this site is to “help make the whole world a library” by allowing users to register books on the site, and then leaving them in various places for readers to find. For example, say you really loved the book, Bel Canto by Ann Patchett but wanted to give your copy away so that others can enjoy it. You can leave it at the Alewife T station after registering it with BookCrossing. Someone else will find it, read it, and then leave it in another public place.
posted by: Laura
New to the Internet, never been on the Internet, or don’t know what you are doing on the Internet? This is for you!
Classes are being held at the Waltham Public Library:
· Tuesday, February 26th at 10:00 AM
· Thursday, February 28th at 2:00 PM
We will go over Internet basics:
· Discussion of what the Internet is
· Understanding the functions of the different parts of a web browser
· Learning web searching skills
Space is limited: Register at the Reference Desk or by calling 781-314-3425 x3
Did you know that in the Waltham Room, our local history collection, some of the most often requested items are copies of The Mirror, the Waltham High School yearbook? Whether for tracking old friends, genealogy, use by the media, or simply reminiscing, hardly a week goes by that someone doesn’t come in to use them. We have a pretty complete collection going back to 1904 but, of course, there are some we are lacking that we would love to provide. Can you help? We mostly need those from the 1980’s, 1950’s and 1930’s, but almost none would be refused. Please email me if you have one you could part with for a good cause. Many thanks.
posted by: Janice
Kate Tranquada and Louise Goldstein met with Marybeth Duffy, the Director of the Waltham Council on Aging on Wednesday afternoon, November 14th at 2:30PM. The weather was fine as the two librarians walked up Main Street.
Marybeth offered a tour of the facility which boasts a computer lab, a lovely living room area with a fireplace, a sizable ballroom, and a kiln! Louise and Kate discussed programming options with Ms. Duffy. It was decided that the way to begin would be with “An Afternoon With Books”. this program would be held in the living room area. One of the WPL’s top notch librarians would lead the program.
The first “Afternoon With Books” was held on Wednesday, Januay 9th at 3:ooPM. The fireplace was lit, the Christmas tree was decorated, and six women sat down to chat about books. Time flew by as titles were discussed. Louise highlighted three titles; Memoirs of a Geisha–by Arthur Golden, King’s Oak by Anne Rivers Siddons and My Sister’s Keeper by Jodi Picoult.
Louise brought a selection of WPL large type and regular type fiction and non fiction. Seniors were able to browse and even check out materials. Louise took down the information and then typed it into the computers at the library. Each attendee was given a complimentary copy of the Book Page.
Members enjoyed cookies and conversation! We are holding our second Afternoon with books on Wednesday, February 6th at 3:00PM. This second session will be hosted by Laura Bernheim. The March 5th Afternoon With Books will be hosted by Paula Cerrato.
Stay tuned for our April Afternoon which will feature Indian Culture, hosted by Bela Kaul!
posted by louise
