Citizens that use the public computers at the Elizabethton-Carter County Public Library will need to have their library cards ready next week.
The ECCPL told the Elizabethton Star on Tuesday that the library’s computers used by the public will not be available Monday, July 11, and Tuesday, July 12, due to the facility changing their software, according to Maryann Owen, technical librarian at ECCPL.
“The library will be open during that time but the computers will be offline Monday and Tuesday,” Owen said. ECCPL will be working on changing the current format used, which includes a written in time sheet where you receive a card with computer number, to shift management online for simplicity.
The new format is named CASSIE, which will allow the library to access time management and other tools online, Owen added.
CASSIE, according to the software’s website, librarica.com, has standard features to monitor access and time control, print management, patron authentication, and statistics reporting.
“This is a new way for us to manage time logs,” Owen added.
For usage of computers from Wednesday, July 13, through the coming months – citizens will need to have a library card. If a citizen does not have a card, it is a simple process to garner the item, Owen said.
To apply for a card, citizens need a valid ID and proof of residence. For any citizen that has lost their card, there is a $1.50 renewal fee for a new one.
While the facility looks to upgrade their current software, plans continue to help encourage foot traffic, according to Joe Penza, ECCPL archivist and records clerk.
During a busy summer that featured adult coloring classes, a summer food program, and other programs for children – the ECCPL is offering a chance for those with late charges to come back to the library … and help the community.
“We’re wanting to give people a chance to come back to the library,” Penza said. “Some people may have late charges, and haven’t came back. We want to offer them a chance to waive the charges.”
The charges will be at no cost, but citizens are encouraged to bring in one item for personal hygiene — toothbrush, toothpaste, mouthwash, deodorant — for PHI (personal hygiene item) bags.
“The bags are for the homeless,” Penza said. “We’re asking those people that may have late charges to bring it one item for the PHI bags. We can waive those charges.”
While directing the initiative towards those with late charge, Penza added that any individuals interested in contributing an item and stop by the ECCPL to donate.
The library worked in conjunction with other organizations on the idea of PHI bags before taking the notion to pursue the endeavor on their own, to help serve Elizabethton and Carter County, according to Owen.
For more information, visit the ECCPL Facebook page online or call 423-547-6360.