Comments from the suggestion box in the foyer are answered every week and posted on the noticeboard and on this page. To submit a suggestion or comment via the internet, use our online Suggestion Form.
This month's suggestions and comments:
------------------------------------------------------------
(no date- June)
To the VC,
Can you please come and spend 1hour in the Library looking for a computer that works.
That’s pathetic excuses of why it does not work, it’s been happening from last year.
Pissed off student
---------------------------------------
Dear student,
The ITS department is responsible for the maintenance of the computer labs that are hosted by the Library. They are responsible for replacing and upgrading computers in the library. I will send a copy of your comment to ITS.
Sincerely,
Lara Phillips
Reader Services Librarian
(no date- June)
Please fix your computers
Anon.
Dear student,
The ITS department is responsible for the maintenance of the computer labs that are hosted by the Library. They are responsible for replacing and upgrading computers in the library. I will send a copy of your comment to ITS.
Sincerely,
Lara Phillips
Reader Services Librarian
(no date- June)
Cola Vina Riki,
First of all, I would like to commend that services and how work is carried out in the Library. However, my only concern is recently on Monday 20/05/13, as I was using Catalogue, one of the security or Library Attendant walked by and his phone rang, which was so loud.
I am just wondering, why he wasn’t fined for that when everyone was disturbed and it really caught the attention of students including t hose in the desk reserve. THIS IS SO UNFAIR!! Please I urge the administrative to do something about this “address it to the staffs”.
If students are being fined for their phone ringing and why not staffs as well.
I hope my thoughts are taken into consideration.
Thank you.
Dear Joeli,
Library policy is that library staff should also silence phones in the library and may only use them in non-public work areas during breaks. Staff from other campus departments (security, ITS, etc.) and vendors and repairmen (like DHL or Xerox) are supposed to turn off mobiles in the library but this does not always happen.
The University Librarian will send a reminder to USP staff that they, too must abide by the silence policy in the library.
Sincerely,
Lara Phillips
Reader Services Librarian
------------------------------------------------------------
Previous suggestions and responses:
------------------------------------------------------------
29/04/13
Can something be done about people/student who use PC’s and leave to attend class while they have their things behind at the PC’s – giving no considerations for those who need the time to do some actual school work.
PLEASE !!
Phee
Dear Phee,
The library does not allow students to “claim” PCs by leaving personal items on the keyboards. Aside from being inconsiderate, this practice invites theft.
If you observe abandoned property at the PCs, notify the library staff member at the Information Desk, who will clear the items and talk to the student upon their return.
Students are regularly reminded via various forums such as Library News, all-staff, all-student emails and notices to keep their personal items with them at all times, even when leaving for a moment to use the toilets or retrieve a book from the shelves.
Sincerely,
Lara Phillips,
Reader Services Librarian
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
29/04/13
Dear Library Patrons, I wish to address the matter of students spending countless hours using the Library Computers to chat with their friend on social networking sites, while other students who actually want to use computers to complete their assignments on time, look on – Is there any way that maybe there could be a library service personal look into this matter
Phee
Dear Phee,
If you observe someone clearly using the computers for non-academic purposes during peak demand times, please alert the library staff member at the Information Desk. The staff member will then approach the student and inform them of your need for a PC.
Also remember that there are 2 other computer labs on Level B should the one near the Information Desk be full.
Sincerely,
Lara Phillips,
Reader Services Librarian
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
08/05/13
The camera been placed around Library are of no use. I don’t know why the USP Library is using these cameras if it cannot do the job required by them. I lost an item in the Library when I wanted to see where the item went from the Library I was told that their cameras cannot be rewind. What a stupid excuse..
M.K.
Dear M.K.
The members of USP’s security team are the ones who review camera footage. If this is the incident I’m thinking of, the problem was not rewinding the footage, but that there is not a camera that provides a clear picture of that particular area of the library.
The cameras are primarily there to provide a theft deterrent of library-owned items. Patrons are responsible for their personal items and the Library takes no responsibility for these. Patrons should not rely on the cameras to catch acts of theft after the fact.
The library has a large display in the foyer reminding patrons to protect themselves against thefts by not leaving bags, phones, laptops, USB drives, etc. unattended. We also have a sign on the notice board outside the library and have sent out an email this semester to every USP student and staff member with similar reminders that thefts occur when items are left unattended. But since we still see heaps of unattended items every day, we’ll say it again here:
DO NOT depend on the cameras to recover unattended items and don’t tempt would-be thieves by leaving your belongings unattended.
Sincerely,
Lara Phillips,
Reader Services Librarian
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
unsigned, undated (May 2013)
Water is a basic need but not allowed in the Library. If we enter the Library to study for few hours it gets difficult without water – why don’t have water dispensers on different locations on all levels of the Library rather than having condom dispensers in the washroom – not a need.
Else allow water in small bottles only not gallons whereby there will be risk of damage for books.
Dear patron,
Though bottled drinks and water are not allowed in the library, water fountains are provided on level A and level C. Please ask a staff member or library attendant to point out their locations to you next time you are in the library.
The presence of condom dispensers in the washroom are the result of the University’s efforts to reduce incidences of unwanted pregnancies and STI and HIV transmission and were provided by Campus Life in consultation with the Library. Whilst we respect the fact that you do not see a need for these, we understand that there are many who have been appreciative of the service.
Sincerely,
Lara Phillips,
Reader Services Librarian
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
unsigned, undated (May 2013)
What is the rationale for allowing only 1 bag in the Library? What is so wrong in allowing a girl to take her handbag with her essentials and her laptop bag which is only meant to carry laptops? The Library is monitored by CCTV anyway. What is the risk? As if is a handbag can’t fit in a laptop bag and we are told to decide on which one to take else put in baggage booth – both are essential for the purpose of using Library. Please note some of us are not fulltime students and come to USP straight from work.
Dear patron;
I think this may have happened because of a misunderstanding among a few of the checkers as to what constitutes a “bag” (laptop or backpack) versus a purse or handbag. The policy has been clarified to the checkers by library management, so hopefully you will not encounter any more difficulties. If you do, please ask to speak to the senior librarian on duty.
Sincerely,
Lara Phillips,
Reader Services Librarian
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
07/05/13
Is it possible to have more PowerPoint installed as it is very difficult to find one vacant? Furthermore, some existing PowerPoint’s needs to be fixed before semester end.
Vinaka
Iliesa Koroi
Dear Iliesa,
In 2011 the Library added 142 powerpoints to an existing 84 making a total 226 access points spread over 3 levels of the Library. This was based on the understanding that it is a responsibility of the student to come to the Library with a fully charged laptop. For those students whose laptop battery may run out due to heavy study use, there are sufficient powerpoints in place to take care of this.
Access to powerpoints is similar to access to chairs and tables –` first come first served’.
It is not feasible for staff to regularly check all 226 powerpoints to make sure they work, so if you discover a faulty one, PLEASE report it at the Information Desk on level B. We will then put in a work order with Properties and Facilities to have it repaired.
Sincerely,
Lara Phillips,
Reader Services Librarian
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
15/05/13
There are a number of computers that are not working in the Library and out of the ones working most of them are used for Facebook. I would like to know if policies regarding Facebook, because some students need to use these computers and most are occupied by these unnecessary users. Please do something about the computers that are not working. It would be quite helpful if Library computers are frequently upgraded and users monitored.
Concerned
Dear Concerned,
ITS is responsible for the maintenance of the Labs that are hosted by the Library. Please report malfunctioning/non-functioning computers to the person at the Information Desk, who will call ITS to reset the machine or fix the problem. Please have the number of the computer (written on the top of the monitor- i.e. "FOY 12") and the specific problem - "Screen black" or "not hooked up to printer" is more helpful than "not working".
Facebook is not prohibited at library computers, as it can have a role in information sharing in a manner similar to email for academic purposes. That said, we understand many students use Facebook recreationally on library computers.
It is only possible to ascertain if someone is using Facebook for recreation or learning if Library staff are called to a PC and see it being used for non-academic purposes. The staff member may then approach the student and to alert them to your need for a PC.
Also remember that there are 2 other computer labs on Level B should the one near the Information Desk be full.
Sincerely,
Lara Phillips,
Reader Services Librarian
------------------------------------------------------------
Undated, April 2013
Bula,
I would just like a clarification about the bag-checking procedure;
“While it is obvious that our bags are checked for food items and bottles before entering, what exactly is the purpose of the “exit-check”? Especially since whatever will be inside the bag upon entering is what will be inside towards the exit.
Please clarify as it is annoying to be rushing into/out of the Library and having to be intercepted for the investigation unreasonable to our minds.
Vinaka,
S.Q.B.R.
Response:
Dear SQBR,
The exit check is to ensure that library materials are properly checked out and that no material leaves the library without being checked out.
Sincerely,
Lara Phillips,
Reader Services Librarian
------------------------------------------------------------
Kali, 24/04/13
I went to the restroom to answer a call as I didn’t want to disturb other Library users (my mobile was on silent by the way). But I was told by the cleaning lady there that mobile phones are to be switched off at all times whilst in the Library. I’m sorry but I think this rule is absurd. How can talking in the restroom disturb other library users? Unless she was worried that I may disturb those using the toilet….Ah I think the flushing of those toilets would disturb them. More than my phone conversation. What if there’s an emergency and were unreachable because our phones are diverted? Was this taken into account before introducing this rule? There are advancements in mobile technology nowadays you know where mobiles can be put on silent – I think the Library rule should be amended to “switch mobile phones to silent at all times”………………just saying…
Vinaka,
Kali
Response:
Dear Kali,
The rule about silence in the library (even in the restroom) is applied for consistency. If you need to take or make a call, either exit the building or go to the Tok Space on Level A.
For your information, rules relating to the various ICTs are under reconsideration by the Library and changes are likely once they have been put through University processes.
Sincerely,
Lara Phillips,
Reader Services Librarian
------------------------------------------------------------
Unsigned, 18/4/13
There should be a monitor to check what people/students are actually doing when using computers. Some just come in to play games e.g. this morning when I came at 9.30am there was a boy playing games. I left to go for lunch at 11.30am he is still there at 3.00pm and as I left at 3.30pm he is there.
I have to find another lab, because of people like him.
Response:
Dear library patron,
If you observe someone clearly using the computers for non-academic purposes during peak demand times, please alert the library staff member at the Information Desk. The staff member will then approach the student and inform them of your need for a PC.
Also remember that there are 2 other computer labs on Level B should the one near the Information Desk be full. You are also advised to draw this misuse of learning technology to the attention of the Student Association at Laucala.
Sincerely,
Lara Phillips,
Reader Services Librarian
------------------------------------------------------------
Monish Naidu, undated (April 2013)
RE: MOSQUITOES
While reading the newspaper at the lower level of the USP Library, I had several itchy feeling on my feet which at first I ignored but after sometime I realized that the area where these cruel blood sucking creatures had beaten was actually swollen.
As know, the Library comprises of certain rules and regulation which every individual has to follow, however, the mosquitoes present in the Library are abusing their freedom as they not only study themselves in the Library, but also does not let others read peacefully. If anyone tells me that I am not very sensible writing that mosquitoes do not study in the Library because they cannot read and write as they are only insects, than the question arises that what they are doing in the Library at first place, they shouldn’t be here.
As far as my knowledge takes me, there are to solutions to the mosquito problem in the Library. The first is that of imposing heavy fines on these creatures (as there are fines associated with making noise or using mobile phones in the Library) because there should not be any kind of discrimination amongst human and animal. The other solution is that of getting rid of those mosquitoes through the use of mosquito killing pesticides in the Library.
All in all the final decision upon those who are concerned about the students well-being in the Library. Thus, I urge for necessary steps to be taken.
Monish Naidu
------------------------------------------------------------
Dear Monish,
The library contracts with Rentokil to spray for pests (including mosquitoes and cockroaches), which is done at the end of each month. The library was just sprayed on Friday 26 April 2013, so hopefully you will notice an improvement.
Given the heavy rain (and resulting puddles) we get in Suva, there is unfortunately no way to completely eradicate the scourge of mosquitoes. You may wish to carry some insect repellent for personal protection if you discover that mosquitoes continue to find you a particularly attractive source of nourishment.
Sincerely,
Lara Phillips,
Reader Services Librarian
------------------------------------------------------------
No name, no date (April 2013)
Can Library staff wear name tags or something, so that we can differentiate them from students. Sometimes when I need help when finding a book and I’m told to find a library attendant to help me, and it is very hard to know who are staff of the library who aren’t when needing help @ the shelves.
Response:
Dear Library User,
All staff have been provided with name tags and should be wearing them at all times during work hours. It is obvious that they have not and Library Management has sent a reminder to all staff as a result of your letter. Thank you for helping us improve library service!
Sincerely,
Lara Phillips
Reader Services
------------------------------------------------------------
Library User, no date (April 2013):
Could the PC at the library be used only for researches printing and accesing to moodle and not facebook. Anyway, I am kindly requesting the main server to lock the accessing of Facebook on those PC.
Your Sincerely,
Library User
Dear library user:
The Library does not have the power to block sites; only ITS can do that. Social networking sites are a valid form of communication and have a role in networking and information sharing in a manner similar to email for academic purposes. It is only possible to ascertain if someone is using Facebook for recreation or learning if Library staff are called to a PC and see it being used for non-academic purposes. The staff member may then approach the student and to alert them to your need for a PC.
Also remember that there are 2 other computer labs on Level B should the one near the Information Desk be full.
The University has a firewall in place in certain labs restricting access to Facebook between 10pm and 7am for the reason of protecting bandwidth for academic use.
Sincerely,
Lara Phillips
Reader Services
------------------------------------------------------------
No name, no date (April 2013):
People don’t understand how long 10 minutes is! Maybe there should be a bigger sign at the email kiosk PC’s.
It really gets frustrating standing and waiting for a stupid user who doesn’t seem to understand the notice beside the PC’s informing them not to go on social networks. Maybe next time, staff could be an usher for these illiterate people. PS: Please do something.
Response:
Dear Library Patron,
There are already 2 signs reminding students to use the email kiosks for 10 minutes or less. If you observe someone clearly overstaying the limit or using the kiosk terminals for a function other than email, tell the library staff member at the Information Desk, who will ask the student to relinquish the kiosk terminal.
Sincerely,
Lara Phillips
Reader Services
------------------------------------------------------------
Name- illegible 3 April, 2013
Library procedures sucks. My mobile was on silent mode when it rings, and yet I was charge for a fee.It is hao USP make money or what. It was not fair as if my mobile disturb anyone in the library. So maybe it is not a better place to be during the day. Vinaka.
Dear student:
The library regulations in the Handbook and Calendar (which are also posted on the library web page under the title “Rules and regulations” clearly state: “mobile telephone owners must switch off their telephone before entering the Main Entrance”. We have a similar sign at the entrance that says “As you are now IN the library, is your mobile switched OFF?”. There is yet another sign on the “library and community notices” board that says “Turn OFF your mobile phone. $40 fine if your phone rings (or for using phone in the library)”.
If you choose to use silent mode instead of switching your mobile off, it is your responsibility to know whether your phone is truly silent in this mode. Clearly the noise was loud enough that a staff member heard it. The noise fines are intended to enforce silence in the library and not as a revenue generator.
Also, while we welcome your suggestions or comments, you need to place them in the wooden box near the library entrance (where you got this form) instead of posting them on the board reserved for ANSWERED comments. I had no responses to post to the comment board for several weeks, which is why I did not see or respond to your comment before now.
Sincerely,
Lara Phillips
Reader Services
------------------------------------------------------------
Sent Thu 7/3/2013 8:06 PM
#1 :Is your suggestion about...?
5 - Other
#2 : Enter your Suggestion
The ladies toilet situated at the ground floor has a foul smell now and then. It would be greatly appreciated if something could be done about this.
#3 : Name: Jade
#4 : May we post your question/suggestion/comment in the Library foyer for others to see?
1 - Yes
Response:
Dear Jade,
The Library is aware of this ongoing issue and brought it to the attention of P&F in 2011 when some initial work was done. The Library’s OHS committee met a week ago and proposed a ceiling fan be installed to improve ventilation and air circulation. The Properties and Facilities (P&F) team has now made it a High Priority level activity.
Sincerely,
Lara Phillips
Reader Services Librarian
------------------------------------------------------------
Unsigned, undated (March 2013)
Re: Bag check
Maybe USP can introduce a security system something similar to the ones at the airport to save time and effort for scanning bags.
Response:
Dear Library patron,
Such a scanning system was considered but its cost was astronomical. Library users can speed up the queue by opening their bags for the checker to look in prior to arriving in the queue, or by checking bags in the baggage booth prior to entering the library.
Sincerely,
Lara Phillips
Reader Services Librarian
------------------------------------------------------------
Sent: Tuesday, March 05, 2013 3:36 PM
#1 : Is your suggestion about...?
2 - Library Policy & Procedures
#2 : Enter your Suggestion
The USP library fined me 40 dollars for making noise. i know i broke a rule so it doesnt matter to me. But my main area of focus is that students sitting beside me were also making noise but were not fined. I am an indian and students making noise were fijian. i thought the USP library did not have any racial discrimination. My point is this, if i being an indian was fined then why cant the fijian studentd be fined as well. Thats because it is simple racial discrimination. WANANAVU USP. This will be forwarded to the editor of a local newspaper so that the whole of Fiji can see.
#3 :Name: Vishesh
#4 : May we post your question/suggestion/comment in the Library foyer for others to see?
1 – Yes
Response:
Dear Vishesh,
The Library observes the University's policy of fair and equal treatment of all persons. In light of your allegation of racial discrimination for which does not include any detail to enable the Library to investigate the allegation, the Deputy University Librarian would like to meet with you. Please call Mrs Fong on 3232363 or come to the Information Desk to make an appointment with her.
Sincerely
Lara Phillips
Reader Services Librarian
------------------------------------------------------------
Sent: Saturday, March 02, 2013 10:36 PM
#1 :Enter your Suggestion
text book
#2 : Name
british imperialism 1750-1970
Response:
Dear Student,
Three copies of this textbook are available on 2 hour reserve at the Main Issue Desk. Ask for call number DA 16 S54 1998.
Sincerely,
Lara Phillips
Reader Services Librarian
------------------------------------------------------------
(unsigned, undated) (February 2013)
This letter is concerning about the matter of the condition of the washrooms in the library in Level C. Its unbearable stink can be noticed before entering the washrooms. I am a daily library user and the condition on the washroom has become worst this year.
Hopefully an immediate action is taken.
Thank you.
(unsigned, undated) (February 2013)
Please note that the water fountain area in level C are extremely dirty and it is virtually impossible to drink water from it. The foul smell from the male washroom as well as the female washroom just makes me loose my drinking apetite. Thanks, :-) Constant library user.
Response to two above suggestions:
Dear Library Users,
The Library takes pride in maintaining a clean and safe environment and we apologize for this unusual situation. The Supervisor of Cleaners and the cleaning staff on the Level are aware of your concerns and will take action to ensure this does not happen again. Thank you for alerting the Library to this.
Sincerely,
Lara Phillips
Reader Services Librarian
------------------------------------------------------------
Unsigned, undated (February 2013)
The students need to be told that they are not lock Pc's. All students must have access to the PC's at all times. Vinaka.
Response:
Hello,
If a PC is locked, please inform the Information Desk staff who will alert ITS. Additionally, I have contacted the ITS desk about adding this to the computer rules.
Sincerely,
Lara Phillips
Reader Services Librarian
------------------------------------------------------------
Unsigned, 28/2/13
The new "upgraded" catalogue runs about 3 times slower than the old one, and that's in the Library. Access from outside USP is still effectively impossible (still "connecting" after 10 minutes!)
Response:
Dear library patron,
I am sorry you are experiencing difficulties with the new catalogue. The system was upgraded before the semester started to lessen possible impacts, but there have been a few bugs that are being addressed with the Vendor by our systems personnel who are diligently working to correct the bugs. We are aware of the problems with off-campus access as well. Please bear with us as we make every effort to get Spydus back to its expected level of operation.
Sincerely,
Lara Phillips
Reader Services Librarian
------------------------------------------------------------
Unsigned, 28/2/13
Most of the computers are not working in labs 1,2,3 and kiosk. I.T. have not rectified these issues. The next time, this issue would be on the front page of the local newspaper!! Fees increasing but I.T. service is pathetic!!
Response:
Dear library patron,
Your concern has been reported to ITS which is responsible for the maintenance of the Labs that are hosted by the Library. For your information, the process is that a malfunctioning/non-functioning computer is reported to the person at the Information Desk, who will call ITS to reset the machine or fix the problem. Please have the number of the computer (written on the top of the monitor- i.e. "FOY 12") and the specific problem - "Screen black" or "not hooked up to printer" is more helpful than "not working".
Sincerely,
Lara Phillips
Reader Services Librarian
------------------------------------------------------------
Sent: Tuesday, February 26, 2013 12:44 PM
#1 :Is your suggestion about...?
3 - Library Services
#2 : Enter your Suggestion
I wish to request if the USP Library could be open till 10pm on Saturday nights and again open from 8am to 10pm on Sundays. It would allow working people like us who study through DFL to utilize the library services, which we are unable to use during our working hours. Thank you
#3 : Name :
Reshmi Singh
#4 : May we post your question/suggestion/comment in the Library foyer for others to see?
1 - Yes
Response:
Dear Reshmi,
Thank you for writing. The Laucala library is open for a total of 79.5 hours per 7 day week. We are open until 10pm 4 days a week, for 9 hours on Saturdays and 4.5 hours on Sundays. Our experience shows that these opening hours meet the needs of both DFL and face-to-face students and full-time and part-time students. In addition the Library provides study space (All Night Reading Room) from 10pm-7am Monday to Thursday during semester. Students also have access to all the library's online resources from wherever they are located.
Sincerely,
Lara Phillips
Reader Services Librarian
------------------------------------------------------------
Name: Student, 18/2/13
Can the I.T. staffs fix the PC's in the labs at the library. This has been the situation for some time.
Response:
Thank you for raising your concern with us regarding the PCs in the Library that are managed by ITS. The Library communicates such concerns to ITS who are responsible for addressing any problems, and you can help us by noting the computer number (on the front of the monitor on a sticker) and the exact problem (mouse won't work, screen blank, etc.). If you refer to the problem with printing at the library yesterday (Monday 18/2/2013), that is now resolved.
Sincerely,
Lara Phillips
Reader Services Librarian
------------------------------------------------------------
Sent Mon 2/18/2013 7:12 PM
#1 :
Is your suggestion about...?
5 - Other
-----------
#2 :
Enter your Suggestion
During enrollment its pathetic service since thousand plus students have to wait outside for their manual applications to be done and one of friend comes in evening than instant enrollment was done.Students are paying and at least busy time they should have more facilities provided.Every semester only fees is increasing but service is same.PATHETIC...this issue should be highlighted to vice chancellor for a sudden change.
-----------
#3 :
Name
anonymous
-----------
#4 :
May we post your question/suggestion/comment in the Library foyer for others to see?
1 - Yes
Response:
Dear Student,
I am sorry you encountered difficulties during enrolment. I suggest you bring your concerns directly to Student Academic Services (helpdesk(at)student.usp.ac.fj) as the Library has no influence over the staffing decisions of other campus departments.
Sincerely,
Lara Phillips
Reader Services Department
------------------------------------------------------------
Keith Crawford, 7 Jan 2013
On special occasions you might consider a chocolate fountain.
Response:
Dear Keith,
Thanks for your entertaining suggestion. While the library sometimes has a catered lunch brought in for staff in all-day training sessions, it’s probably best that chocolate fountains remain at the places like the Intercontinental Hotel.
Cheers,
Lara Phillips
Reader Services
------------------------------------------------------------
Undated (Jan, 2013), Signature hard to read- Tony?
Can the library management do something about the fans at the Social Science Level. As an external borrower I normally use this section but there is not enough ventilation especially at the accounting economics and tourism area. I can see that the other side has ceiling fans but not on the side that I’ve mentioned. Please do hope that you will do something about it. Thank you.
Response:
We understand, especially in our summer months of the year, that it can be quite warm in some sections of the collection and over the years this matter has been placed on the `action’ list of the Library with regard to capital works but inevitably with higher priorities for library development, the installation of additional ventilation has fallen lower down the list on University funding.
The Library will continue to keep it on its proposed list of action regarding the building.
------------------------------------------------------------
Unsigned, undated ( Jan, 2013)
The Holy Quran is placed at the bottom shelf. Anyone careless can kick the book. And it faces the full brunt of sweeping and mopping. I would be grateful if you put the book on a shelf a bit higher. It will be very much appreciated. Thank you. J
Response:
Please know that the placement of all religious books in the Library is in accordance with the Library of Congress Call Number system that we use at the USP; we place books in order by call number so they may be easily found and retrieved. The cleaners are aware that for preservation of the Library collection, all care is taken when they are working in or close to the collection.
Sincerely,
Lara Phillips
Reader Services
------------------------------------------------------------
From Artika 16 November 2012
Please have a notice placed at the pigeon box provisioned outside for returning books after the close of the library, that it will be cleared the next day. This will thus assist students (like me!) who are unaware that the books will be cleared the next day. One does not have the time to read item by item detail on the USP website, especially working students.
Thanks, Artika
Response:
Dear Artika,
The library had previously posted a sign about this matter on the inside glass louvers above the after hours drop box, but it fell down without us noticing.(!) I am sorry the sign was not there when you returned your items.Thanks to your excellent suggestion, we have replaced the sign and stapled it securely to the outside of the box. The sign says “Books returned after hours in this box on their due date will be checked in the following morning, and will incur a late fine.”
Additionally, we posted a sign on the book return box near the library exit checkpoint that says “The Main Issue Desk closes 30 minutes before the library closes. Books returned to this box when the Issue Desk is closed will be checked in the following day, and will incur a late fine if overdue.”
I have also posted the summer term library hours on the notice board, at the foyer checkpoints and at the Main Issue Desk for students and staff that might not know that the library is open until 6pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays but closes at 4:30pm on Monday and Wednesday and 4pm on Friday (with the Main issue desk closing 30 minutes before). Hopefully, this will give students the information they need to return items before the due dates.
In addition to information on the Library website, other tools such as brochures and Library News (6x a year - print and all staff/all student email) ) are used to remind users of policies and procedures. We will certainly include this item in the first issue of Library News in 2013.
Thank you again for your suggestion and for helping us improve USP’s Library service.
Lara Phillips,
Reader Services
------------------------------------------------------------
Unsigned, undated, probably 15/11/12
The computers in the library (near the info desk) are not connected to the printer. Can someone assist please. Many thanks.
Response:
All of the first floor computers near the info desk should be connected to the printer and are checked by the ITS staff every morning. If you should discover a problem, please let the person at the info desk know so they can call ITS to investigate. ITS needs to know the exact number of the computer (FOY 01, FOY 02, etc) that can be found on the label on the top front of the computer’s monitor.
If you’d like to write back and let us know which computer you were having difficulty with, we can have ITS troubleshoot that computer and test the printer. Unfortunately, ITS cannot test the print connections of all the computers, so it’s vital that you note the number of the machine when reporting a problem.
Thanks for writing!
Lara Phillips
Reader Services Librarian
------------------------------------------------------------
Unsigned, dated 8/10/12
If it could be possible we have more talk space and good computers could be brought in also
Response:
Thank you for your suggestion. While the Tok Space has been very popular, library space limitations prevent us from converting existing study spaces to social spaces. There are long term plans in place as part of the University’s Master Plan to build a Learning Commons that will be an extension to the Library and that will be social study setting environment. With regard to the computers, these are hosted by the Library on behalf of ITS which is responsible for their maintenance and at any time that the Library is alerted to a malfunction via the Information Desk, a call is made to ITS Assistants who attend to the matter. The Library recently reminded ITS of the agreement that an ITS technician come to the Library each morning at 8am to check that all computers are in working condition and hopes this will recommence very soon.
------------------------------------------------------------
From Buncegal, dated 12/10/12
"Thank you so much for the expenditions showcases of very valuable information about our culture and other events that is happening around the world and the Pacific. Much appreciated. If only we could have a Mini Museum within the library to promote the University. Vinaka.” - Buncegal,
Response:
It is immensely satisfying to know that you appreciate the foyer displays. The displays aim to further educate and broaden patron knowledge on current issues and events, as well as to promote the research activities of USP Schools and Departments. While a mini-museum is not possible at this time, we do occasionally display artefacts or other non-book items in collaboration with a featured USP program. USP Schools and departments are welcome to contact the Reader Services department directly with proposals for potential displays or collaborations.