The Plainfield Public Library will be closed for three weeks, from Monday, July 30th through August 19th for extensive remodeling on the main floor.
The library will be creating a Job Assistance Computer Lab that will allow librarians to offer a variety of computer training and job-search classes. The new room will also be available at set times for self-directed job-search activities, such as résumé writing and online filing of applications.
The library’s Chief Technology Officer Peter Rajcevic, who is overseeing the construction project, reports that even though the library has 20 public-access Internet computers for adults, the demand for their use is so high a one-hour limit is imposed during busy times, which is most of the day. The new Job Lab will allow computer-users more time at the computers if they are engaged in job-search activities.
The Plainfield Public Library currently offers computer classes throughout the year. Classes ranging from basic keyboarding to word processing and spreadsheet instruction are heavily attended by senior citizens. The new space has been designed to accommodate 30 chairs for training workshops and online presentations. Plainfield’s unemployment rate has been in double digits for the last several years, according to Library Director Joe Da Rold. He says, “very few local agencies are focused on helping the unemployed and underemployed.”
Da Rold explains that the reason for closing three weeks is the complexity of removing the book stacks from the existing space. “Moving the book stacks will create a domino effect, with reading tables and other book stacks needing to be moved. Ultimately we decided to rearrange the shelving and collection on the entire main floor. By doing all the moving at one time, we can better meet community needs and save money doing so. The new layout adheres to the Library Board’s masterplan, which was adopted in 1996.”
During the closing, library users will be welcome at neighboring libraries. Readers can borrow books at 40 other libraries in the MURAL program and 25 other libraries in the LMxAC consortium. Click HERE for a complete list of these libraries. Plainfield Public Library cardholders who wish to download e-books to their e-readers will be able to do so from home via the library website. DVDs will continue to be available 24/7 through the Redbox at the entry. Literacy tutors have been given access to classroom space at the UCC Plainfield campus.
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