The MHLS Digital Download Center, powered by OverDrive, has a whole new look!This new interface, referred to as "the Next Generation digital library website," implements "One-Step Checkout," OverDrive Read (browser-based eBooks), and many search and navigation improvements. The new website carries forward the logo, colors, subject collections, lending policies, and additional features your patrons are already familiar with.  

The new website uses "responsive design" which allows the mobile and desktop experience to be the same - optimized for any size screen regardless of a user's device.

View a video of the enhancements and new features here: http://bit.ly/W26u1v 

A message from Robert Drake, MHLS IT Coordinator:

One Week Until Sierra! All member libraries should familiarize themselves with the Sierra User Configuration Guide at http://bit.ly/16INEwK. A hard copy is included with this week's Bulletin to each library.

1. Download and save the Zip file.
2. Extract the folder.
3. Run the install.bat file found within the folder.
4. Follow the direction of the install wizard.

For Mac or Windows 8 computers please call MHLS Tech Support (x240) for special instructions on installing the Sierra Client.

- For SAM Libraries: SAM will still work on April 23rdbut will be authenticating users against the Millennium/ Sierra Patron Records. Current SAM patrons will log in using their Library Card and SAM PIN. New users will need to receive a Visitor Card/Guest Pass for the day.

The LaGrange Library is making the most of the lead up to Earth Day (April 22)! The library has not only been actively publicizing books in the collection related to Earth Day, search terms to try, like "sustainable living," and their very cool Kill-A-Watt energy use measurement device lending program but also created the LaGrange Library Trash Bash Team. The Library's Trash Bash Team will join with other LaGrange organizations and volunteers to help clean their local roadways on April 27th.

"Every day is Earth Day at LaGrange Library. Think how eco-friendly (not to mention pocket friendly) it is to borrow and return materials than to buy them."

As seen on the LaGrange Association Library's Facebook page

Happy National Library Week! The New York Library Association has provided a letter that you can send to legislators through their Online Advocacy Center. From NYLA: "This year's theme is "Communities matter @ your library." Celebrate NLW by taking a few minutes to send a quick message to your governor and representatives. Let them know how important libraries are to you and your community. Your message will make a difference!

Libraries continue to be busier than ever helping individuals, families, students, seniors, etc. But as we know, public libraries, school libraries, and academic libraries struggle to maintain budgets, staff, and resources to serve the needs of their communities.

State governments provide much needed funding for libraries to offer public access to the Internet for everyone, resources for individuals, families, job seekers, and small businesses, homework help, and much more.

If you agree with Walter Cronkite - "Whatever the cost of our libraries, the price is cheap compared to that of an ignorant nation." - why not share a personal story about how your public, school, or college library makes a positive impact in your own community. For example, relate how much your children depend on their school libraries to help them succeed in school, or explain how much you depend on your public library to connect you to information you need.

Encourage your friends, family, and colleagues in your state to take this opportunity to support libraries in their communities, too!

"Thank you for taking the time to make a difference."

Send a letter to your legislators with a few clicks in the NYLA Online Advocacy Center:  http://bit.ly/131HRFf