Cambridge Public Library
The project that I chose to undertake was to create space in our small library. One collection that seems to be less utilized than before is our book-on-tape collection.  The area in which it is located is a rather congested one since our public access computers are close by.  We also are requiring more space for a growing book-on-CD collection. All this prompted a weeding of the book-on-tape collection based on relevance and circulation criteria.  In the end we pulled 74 items, shifted much of the collection into one area and created enough space for the book-on-CD collection, as well as to place some precariously perched VC onto some shelving.
Galway Public Library
Our Board of Trustees and Director decided to make several changes based on the survey responses- one was already forth coming- to accommodate our new hours and new library logo. Â Our library director worked with volunteers, artists, graphic designers, and carpenters to design and build new signage. Â The signs will be unveiled at our upcoming open house.
We also purchased high traffic carpet sections to replace spot worn carpeting and to guard against winter traffic.
Town of Ballston Community Library
After completing the library assessment, we found that the security and safety of the parking lots was a concern. We have had several thefts from vehicles in the neighborhood, and the library vestibule is open to the public. We decided to investigate the cost and feasibility of installing two security cameras, one in the back parking lot and one that would cover the library entryway. We are still in the process of collecting and comparing quotes and investigating funding options. Congressman Scott Murphy’s office is doing a grant search for possible Homeland Security Funding.  Once this process is complete, we expect to install the cameras.
Raquette Lake Library
The Raquette Lake Library recently replaced our large outside door mat. The mat was old and not doing its job effectively and could actually have been a hazard, if someone had slipped. By purchasing a new large, heavy duty mat, a small change has made a big difference in foot traffic debris, safety, and overall appearance.  In addition, we decided to purchase two carpet style mats to enhance the entryway and in front of the circulation desk. These new mats help keep the carpet from getting worn and keep foot debris isolated to that area.  The mats give the Raquette Lake Library’s entryway a fresh look.
Saratoga Springs Public Library
The PLA buildings workshop was very well done and quite helpful. The workshop inspired us to review our current signage and to consider future shelving and lighting changes.
On the second day of the workshop, I led a tour of our building and heard positive feedback about the library’s new teen center and about our decision to create a comfortable reading space near the current periodicals and newspapers. These changes were in keeping with Ms. Bryan’s user centered recommendations.
Thanks for offering these wonderful workshops.
Stillwater Free Library
The Stillwater Free Library plans to focus on the landscaping of the library in the coming year. During renovation of our building, much of the previous landscaping was removed. In order to get back to an “attractive and inviting” exterior and offer a “welcoming appearance” to the library, we plan to re-landscape as it was with further enhancements.
Round Lake Library
One of the major issues identified was the lack of signage leading patrons to the two facilities of the Round Lake Library. Clark House, the 113-year-old library in the Village of Round Lake, is difficult to find, as it is an old Victorian home set among many in this picturesque village. The Malta Branch, which opened September 2009, is located in the Malta Community Center, but there are no signs for the library.
We have received approval from the Village Board of Trustees to work with the mayor to put directional signs within the village guiding patrons to the library. We have received approval from the Malta Town Board to have a standard sign placed on Route 9 identifying the community center and the library.  This will probably not be done until Spring; so, I approached the Town Planning Department, and they agreed that we could put a banner on the side of the building facing on Route 9 for 60 days, by which time we should be seeing the real sign put in place. I have also been working with the NYSDOT to get standard directional road signs placed on state roads to strategically guide patrons to both facilities. They have driven the routes and are currently deciding where to place the signage. Lastly, the signs that surround the Clark House property are being repainted to make them more attractive and visible.
Corinth Free Library
We are in the process of putting a sign with our hours on the book return. The large font size and closer proximity to the road will ensure that the hours are visible from the street. One thing that we have done (as recommended by the assessments) is to work on keeping the entryway of the building free from clutter. Donations tend to collect in the alcove. This time of year salt, sand and shovels are kept there. We are doing our best to move pass through items like donations to storage as soon as possible and to keep other items as neat as possible.
The assessments have helped us to look at our surroundings with new eyes and see our building as if for the first time. We have several projects that we hope to get to as time and money allow.
Waterford Public Library
The change that we have implemented has to do with the development of a comprehensive approach to maintaining the physical plant of the library.  Coinciding with the completion of our most recent projects, involving a major renovation of the roof, parking areas and landscaping, has be the creation of a plan to institute regular inspections and upkeep of the building and grounds. The thought is that if we can plan for repairs and maintenance projects, we can budget for them more effectively.  In conjunction with this effort will be the development of some procedures for more effective interactions with contractors and building maintenance companies. Communicating with these entities has often been challenging and we hope that will not be the case going forward.
Mechanicville District Public Library
There is a lack of signage throughout the city for the Library. The Mechanicville District Public Library has purchased signs which will be strategically posted at the entrances to the city and along the main intersections.
Stony Creek Free Library
We passed out the handout: “Planning and Maintaining Library Buildings” to our board members and discussed at the most recent meeting. There are a number of actions that we wish to complete in the near future. For right now we tackled one that we can afford and complete quickly:
We had some floor/walk off mats that presented a tripping hazard. We trimmed the carpets and fastened them down with double-sided tape.
Town of Johnsburg Library
The Town of Johnsburg Library did not have a large sign posted with our hours. For under $30 we had a sign made and posted outside by our front door, and what a great response from everyone. Now they don’t have to get out of their cars, call on the phone or check the SALS website to see if we are open!!!!
Hadley-Luzerne Public Library
After the CPLA class, we made a couple of changes for the better at the Hadley-Luzerne Public Library. Our sign out front had become faded; we are in the process of repainting it.  The other thing we did was change up the tables in the reference room. We used to have two big, long tables. One person would sit down at the table and other people would avoid that space. So, we took two small tables out of the community room and switched it with one of the long tables.  People have even commented on how they like the two small tables in the reference room. Now, more people can use that space. It also turned out great for the craft group who use community room. Now all the ladies can fit at one table and spread out a little. So, it was a win-win for everyone and made the library more comfortable for all.
Town of Chester Public Library
One item that was consistently mentioned in the surveys was the need of some sort of sign that displayed the Library’s hours in a manner that can be viewed without having to leave one’s automobile. It is not possible to place a sign that can be viewed from the street, but the following recommendations have been made for a sign that can be viewed from any automobiles entering the building’s expansive parking lot. The Library Board is currently conducting a campaign for a new Library logo and has plans to replace the exterior sign once the new logo is picked. The new sign will include library hours. In the meantime, a magnetic sign with the Library hours will be placed on the book drop in the parking lot.
Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library
Our library opened a new facility in December 2006, and we have been lucky enough to have a much larger location with additional Program Room space, parking for library patrons, as well as a significantly larger collection of books and audio-visual materials. For our assessment, we began work on a possible rearrangement of space in the Children’s library. A proposal has been made for a reorientation of the Children’s Reference desk with additional shelving for library materials. This proposal is being reviewed by the Library Director and Board, working with the Architectural firm. Library staff have supplemented this proposal through a concentrated weeding project which is taking place throughout the library in the Children’s, Young Adult and Adult collections.