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HIGHLIGHTS:

The question of why Mt. Lebanon Library had to close on Sunday while some libraries remain open has frequently been asked this month. 

Answer: our library suffered, by far, the biggest loss of RAD funds in ACLA's formula and with the elimination of the Statewide Library card payments by the state, as well as the reduction to State funding, we were the hardest hit by funding cuts. Each independent library makes its own decisions of how best to serve their patrons. Some libraries are open on Sunday and some libraries decided to close. We surveyed our patrons and the overwhelming response was to cut hours - not materials.

Library Changes for 2010
effective January 1

> You Spoke; We Listened! In times of funding cuts, the library needs to make the best use of its resources, and to do this the Book Stop books were changed to a one week loan period. However, effective February 1, while all Book Stop books will still have a one week loan period, we are now allowing for renewals. This will accommodate patrons who need a bit more time or have checked out a 1,000 page book. Renewals must be made by calling the library directly or visiting us in person. You will not be able to renew Book Stop books online.

> Another change made in the library regards items placed on reserve. Patrons will no longer be able to see what number they are in the queue, as holds will be prioritized by library location instead of date requested by patron. Libraries will fill their local patron requests first. After all holds for local patrons have been filled, the items will be sent to fill holds at other libraries. This is a consortium decision that will take effect Feb. 1st, with a trial period of 3 months.

The trustees also approved increases to the library’s late fees, the first increase in six years. See 2010 Fee Schedule below.

2010 Fee Schedule, Effective January 1
▪ Adult print and audio materials—30¢ per day.
▪ Children’s print and audio materials—20¢ per day.
▪ Videos will remain at 50¢ per day.
▪ The late fee threshold will be reduced from $10 to $5.
▪ Black and white print copies and printouts will
increase from 20¢ to 25¢.
▪ Color copies will remain at $1.00.

 BOOKS

Book Lists

New on Book Stop - brand new books available first come, first serve. Only 1 week checkout with no extensions. Lots of choices available.

What the Staff is Reading

Looking for a fun way to escape! Check out our Time Travel Book Resources

 BYTES
Database Corner: Helpful databases, web-related information

Mango Language Online
The Mango Language online program is the easiest way to learn a foreign language. The program teaches you how to communicate by listening and repeating material taken from real-life situations and actual conversations. Click HERE to get started.
Printable instructions available here.

NEW!
The Transparent Language Library Series is an alternative way to help you learn a new language. This electronic resource is a computer flash drive available to check out from the library. Learn more.

LIBRARY TIPS
Specific tips on how to get the most out of your library.

TIPS to AVOID LATE FEES
Ways to renew your library items:

> Go on-line:  www.mtlebanonlibrary.org
You must have your library card number in order to log in to your account. (Use for Sunday)

> Call Mt. Lebanon Public Library at 412-531-1912
M-Th 9-9, F & S 9-5

> Visit the library when opened and renew items at the circulation desk. (Items returned in the outside bookdrop after hours are counted as the next day)

> Call the automated phone renewal number at
412-622-1895
It is important to stay on the line until ALL of the barcode numbers are announced. (Use for Sunday)

* Please note that some items may not be renewable. You will be responsible for any fees that have accrued.

LIBRARY TIDBITS

Congratulations to the wonderful volunteers of The Book Cellar!! What an extraordinary month and a stellar year! This social venture has so many benefits: as a gathering place for the community, the best "recycling" center, and a great fundraiser for the library. Three cheers for the talented leaders of this fantastic enterprise!!

>>>>>>>

Ways to Help Mt. Lebanon Public Library

Adopt-A-Magazine

Open the Door to the History of your House

BookBank - Donations can now be given easily at the circulation desk when you are checking out your library items. Look for the “BookBank” near the cash register. Your donations will buy books. Any amount is very much appreciated.

Press the button at the bottom of our webpage.

FEBRUARY CALENDARS: 
Complete Information on our Current Events 

February Calendar of Events

NEXT MONTH'S PREVIEW:
March 2010

Discover Kentuck Knob

Discover Poetry with Samuel Hazo

A Tale of Two Mysteries:
An Evening with Author Anne Faigen

Don't Toss My Memories in the Trash

Pittsburgh Rose Society

You Have a Digital Camera-Now What?

Happy Valentine's Day!