July 10, 2008 10:11 AM

Suggestion: In a number of instances, I run into classic books at the library that have numerous pencil underlines, etc.  (currently Giddens\' Constitution of Society).  Assuming that you have some slack capacity with undergraduate assistants, seems like it may be a good idea to create a means of setting aside some of the books for eraser \"clean-up\" (if you do not already) -- clearly you could not do for all the books in the library, but you might be able to set up a simple system where patrons can indicate or set aside well-read classics for \"clean up\".  Could also make the library appear more professional, well-kept to users, too (I will admit that I tend to have negative impressions when I run into marked up books).  Thanks for your consideration.

Response: 

Thank you for your suggestion.  Books that need special attention should be brought to the Circulation Desk and called to the attention of Tucker Taylor or one of the circulation supervisors.   We do have a "repair shop" and the proper tools for fixing books.

Unfortunately, we rarely have extra project time for our undergraduate assistants as we run a lean organization.   However, we are more than willing to work on any books that are brought to our attention.  We will purchase a new copy of a book that is damaged beyond repair.  

___________

July 2008

Please order:  Encyclopedia of Body Adornment by Margo Demello for Browsing. 

Response: 

We already own a copy of this book.  It is on Level 2 of Thomas Cooper Library.

Columbia Cooper   GN 419.15.D46 2007      

___________

7/7/08, 9:50 am, Map Library 

The map library really needs a new wide bed scanner.  The aerial photos and other maps are being destroyed through USC and need to be preserved. 

Response: 

We are in the process of trying to find the funding for the wide bed scanner.  We would appreciate any donation you would like to make for the expensive price tag?

___________

June ??, 5:50??, Computers

No announcement was made that the library was closing.  I had lost my paper once due to being a visitor here and the computer timing out.  I stated to retype it and then the reference lady that helped me was no longer there to help me print my paper out.  I needed a password, finally a fellow by the front door found Robert and he helped me.

RESPONSE:

The closing announcements are made twice before the building closes, once at ten minutes until closing and once 5 minutes until closing.  Our apologies if we missed one or more of these announcements.  Our hours are also posted at:
http://www.sc.edu/library/hours.html

___________

6/11/08

Add the Iceberg Slim books!

RESPONSE:

Thanks for the suggestion.  We already have these Iceberg Slim books:

Death wish
Iceberg Slim, 1918-1992.
Edinburgh: Payback Press, 1987
  Columbia Cooper PS3552.E25 D33 1997    AVAILABLE

Ice-T presents Doom fox
Iceberg Slim, 1918-1992
Edinburgh: Payback Press, 1998, c1978.
Location Call No. Status Public Note
  Columbia Cooper PS3552.E25 I28 1998   AVAILABLE

The naked soul of Iceberg Slim
Iceberg Slim, 1918-1992.
Edinburgh: Payback, 1996, c1986.
1996
Location Call No. Status Public Note
  Columbia Cooper PS3552.E25 Z5 1996   AVAILABLE

Pimp: the story of my life
Iceberg Slim, 1918-1992.
Edinburgh: Payback Press, c1996.
c1996
Location Call No. Status public Note
  Columbia Cooper PS3552.E25 Z54 1996   Due 08-12-08

A couple of other titles appear t be in-print and we'll see if we can get them.

___________

6/29, 9"50, Cafe/Tables

I am trying to do a group project and the library is closing.  This is not so great.  The library should be open for summer school at least till midnight.  Students have to work and might need to study late.  This is inconvenient.  Also, it is distraction to hear a countdown of minutes.

RESPONSE:

Traffic patterns in the library do not justify staying open later than we do in the summer.  We need to make frequent announcements to be sure we are reaching as many people as possible in the building.

___________

June ??, 5:50??, Computes

No announcement was made that the library was closing.  I had lost my paper once due to being a visitor here and the computer timing out.  I stated to retype it and then the reference lady that helped me was no longer there to help me print my paper out.  I needed a password, finally a fellow by the front door found Robert and he helped me.

RESPONSE:

The closing announcements are made twice before the building closes, once at ten minutes until closing and once 5 minutes until closing.  Our apologies if we missed one or more of these announcements.  Our hours are also posted at:
http://www.sc.edu/library/hours.html

___________

18 June, 4:58 Front

Showers and overnite bedding areas,:) Please :)

RESPONSE:

Not going to happen.

It's uncomfortable to sit in these wooden chairs for so long. Can there be more cushioned chairs??

RESPONSE:
We do need to consider cushions for our next chair purchase if it is affordable. You might prefer to use the main level as some of these chairs have a cushion. Also, some of the older chairs on the lower levels are cushioned.

6/7/08, 3:40, Mezz

I'm in the library a lot and it is really uncomfortable to sit in these wooden chairs for so long. Can there be more cushioned chairs??

RESPONSE:
We do need to consider cushions for our next chair purchase if it is affordable. You might prefer to use the main level as some of these chairs have a cushion. Also, some of the older chairs on the lower levels are cushioned.

6/7/08, 3:40, Mezz

I'm in the library a lot and it is really uncomfortable to sit in these wooden chairs for so long. Can there be more cushioned chairs??

RESPONSE:
We do need to consider cushions for our next chair purchase if it is affordable. You might prefer to use the main level as some of these chairs have a cushion. Also, some of the older chairs on the lower levels are cushioned.

___________

5/1/08, 10:00am, 4th floor 

It would be great if the cleaning crew wouldn't clean during the morning hours, especially during exam time.  The vacuum is extremely disturbing.  I recommend that this floor be cleaned while it is closed. Thank you so much. 

Response:
The cleaning crew has to clean the floors at least once a day or we would be covered in trash.  They come in at 3:30 in the morning which is the slowest time.  I'm very sorry that they're disruptive, but I don't think there's a better time.  We are not sure why they would have been vacuuming at 10:00 a.m. on level 4.

___________

5/1/08, 6am-6pm, Level 6-7 (Main - Mezz) 

As the most important week of the academic year arrives, I stare in bewilderment at the locked and unused study rooms on the top floor.  What better time to use these rooms than exam week.  Students line the floors without chairs during peak hours because some moron in the bureaucratic system reserved them for SI!! 

On several occasions did I attempt to find who was in charge only to be told not only were they unable to furnish the keys, but that S.I. was not even running this week!  I would hate to be able to converse with other students in the same class comparing notes in relative seclusion without disturbing others around us.  Or is there a fear students might make off with the chairs in these rooms without proper supervision? 

I do recognize there are other ones downstairs, but how useful can they be if all full during the day and closed off during the night.  What exactly are they locking up? 

Response:
The SI center did let us use the rooms last year, but they were so badly damaged that they needed to be repainted.  Now they will let students use them during finals when they are open during the day, but not when they are closed. 

___________

5/1/08, 12:00am, 1st floor 

*vending machines on lower levels
*security checks for sketchy looking stuff
*more tables! 

Response:
*vending machines on lower levels - coming
*security checks for sketchy looking stuff - don't understand this one
*more tables! - on the wish list

___________

4/30/08, 8:15 pm 

Put an out of order sign on your money thieving Coke machine-red one nearest the door.
I concur. 
As do I! 

Response:
We're checking on this.  Thanks for reporting it. 

___________

4/30/08, 5:36 pm, Main floor 

*More tables and chairs
*More comfortable chairs that aren't broken
*More quiet areas 

Response:
All of the above are on our wish list.

___________

4/30/08, 3:06pm, Back of Cooper's Corner 

Bean bag chairs. 

Response:
Our staff love this idea, but alas, too expensive for ones that would last. 

___________

4/30/08, 2:00pm, Main Level 

*Starbursts in snack machine or something fruity.
*Plugs on more tables
*Carolina card readers on snack machines 

Response:
This request has been sent on to vending folks and the Carolina Card folks.

___________

4/30/08, 12:50, On this first floor, at this table 

I think there should be free printing in the library at ALL times.  To be promoting scholarship and making sure everyone has access to the tools they need. 

Response:
Would be nice, but no.  We will have another free week in the Fall.

___________

4/30/08, 10:30, Everywhere 

Finals week is one of the most stressful weeks of the school year.  Everyone is in the library to study and to try to pass their classes.  I was in the library one evening, and I wasn't feeling well, so I decided to put my head on the desk to try to relax and gather my thoughts so I could continue to study.  Soon after I laid my head down, some rude student that works for the library told me I could not sleep in the library.  This pissed me off.  If I cannot come to the library and put my head down for a few minutes between study, that's a major problem.  I should be able to take a break and relax if I want to anywhere on the campus.  I was not bothering anyone.  I suggest this policy, if it is one, needs to be changed.

Thank you. 

Response:
We can't allow people to sleep because you can't be accountable for your safety while asleep.  We don't want anyone to become a victim of theft or worse.  The library is a large public building full of people you do not know.  It's not in your best interest to sleep here.

___________

4/30/08, 12:35am, 1st floor 

The issue I have had a problem with most is people talking and disturbing others around me.  This issue is intensified during the day.  Even with ear plugs, people are "discussing" so loud that I can hear them.  My suggestion would be to have someone monitoring all floors for noise disruptions, at least during the day.  Also, I think the library should require groups of 4 or more to get a private room. 

Response:
We are struggling with the noise and the study room issues.  Hopefully by Fall we will have these issues under better control.
___________

4/29/08, The pond 

There should be swans in the pond.  Preferably a male and female so baby swans can one day be in the pond too.  Bread stations so you can feed them occasionally. 

Response:
see below and definitely no bread stations.

 http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=2789279762183499092&q=swan%20attack&hl=en

___________

Bubble Wands
Sidewalk Chalk Walls
Arts & Crafts
Slip-n-Slide!
Swans in fountain
Paddle boat-->preferably with parasailing behind paddle boats
Fortune Teller
Ski Ball

Response:
Sounds like fun.

___________

*Water fountain on second floor has brown water coming out.  Rust??? 

*More Books 

Response:
Water fountains are old and are being examined.   

Tell us what books you want and we'll consider it.  http://erequest.tcl.sc.edu/

___________

More Comfortable Chairs 

Better Energy Drinks in Vending Machines (Booboo=Bad Yuck!!  Red Bull & Monster=Good Yum!!!) 

Response:
This request has been sent on to vending folks

___________

Hand Sanitizer 

Better energy drinks...BooKoo in PooPoo!

Get Monster or Red Bull in Machines. 

Response:
Hand Sanitizer is in the bathrooms.

Energy drinks request has been sent on to vending folks.

___________

4/30/08, 12:35am, 1st floor 

The issue I have had a problem with most is people talking and disturbing others around me.  This issue is intensified during the day.  Even with ear plugs, people are "discussing" so loud that I can hear them.  My suggestion would be to have someone monitoring all floors for noise disruptions, at least during the day.  Also, I think the library should require groups of 4 or more to get a private room. 

Response:
We are struggling with the noise and the study room issues.  Hopefully by Fall we will have these issues under better control.
___________

4/30/08, 12:35am, 1st floor 

The issue I have had a problem with most is people talking and disturbing others around me.  This issue is intensified during the day.  Even with ear plugs, people are "discussing" so loud that I can hear them.  My suggestion would be to have someone monitoring all floors for noise disruptions, at least during the day.  Also, I think the library should require groups of 4 or more to get a private room. 

Response:
We are struggling with the noise and the study room issues.  Hopefully by Fall we will have these issues under better control.
___________

4/30/08, 12:35am, 1st floor 

The issue I have had a problem with most is people talking and disturbing others around me.  This issue is intensified during the day.  Even with ear plugs, people are "discussing" so loud that I can hear them.  My suggestion would be to have someone monitoring all floors for noise disruptions, at least during the day.  Also, I think the library should require groups of 4 or more to get a private room. 

Response:
We are struggling with the noise and the study room issues.  Hopefully by Fall we will have these issues under better control.
___________

*More Vault and Bugles

*Carolina Card should work in ALL of the vending machines in the library

Response:
We agree and we have a request in to the USC vending folks to have the card readers installed. We are waiting our turn.

___________

4/27/08, 1:02 pm, Main floor

Thomas Cooper Library-You are my second home, however I feel like I am back in the 70's when I'm in this building. I know funding is limited but instead of doing all the little things people are complaining about, it would only do this university justice if this building is renovated.

Whether it be simple things as updating the 1980 pictures on the wall to painting all the wood columns to removing the tacky gold things in the window. This library has so much potential to be amazing. The university should consider updating this building before all others because after all, books are one major source of knowledge.

Greatly appreciated,

One of your students

Response:
We are always on the alert for renovating opportunities, and you are correct it takes a lot of money. The pictures are much older than the 1980's. These nature pictures are highly regarded Audubons that are quite beautiful to many art lovers and naturalists. They were originally published between 1828 and 1838, before camera phones were common place. They are historically significant to the study and development of bird illustration.

Another interesting tidbit about the library is that the original architect was Edward Durell Stone. He is noted for designing the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C. The original part of the Thomas Cooper Library won an award for Stone's design of the building which includes the gold discs hanging in the front of the building.

___________

4/27/08, 5:49, Computer Lab

Users should be able to install printer drivers to print from their own laptops.

Law library already does this. Clemson has been doing this for at least 8 years.

Response:
Thanks for asking. You can take your laptop to the Computer Lab on Level 5 and have our print management client set up on your laptop. If your home computer doesn't take well to the new printer software, our computer lab folks will help you 803-777-0244.

___________

Main floor, In reference to signs.

Too Loud?--> It should say if you plan on talking or are meeting with a group-GET a study room. I have been at this university for 3 years and have been in this library more than my own apartment. There is no reason I should have to move to accommodate others. I know the library has tried before but they should make more of an effort. I am aware there are study rooms but they should be for groups of people.

Agreed. Next time we make those signs we will heed your advice.

___________

*newer magazines--am I seriously reading November's issue of Marie Claire?!

Response:
Oops.  You got us there.   I'll check on that.

___________

T-COOP ROCKS MY SOCKS!!

Response:
Thanks

Response:
We do check ID's after 11:00 pm for those already in the building. If you observe non-USC students in the building after midnight, you should contact the Circulation Dept or the exit gate staff. They can check IDs to be sure the "strange people" are in fact USC students.

We are adding surge protectors where we can.

___________

Apr.6,2008, 3:00 pm, Near Cooper's Corner

I really like the sign that has been added to the floor saying, "Please use your cell phone in the hallway." My only problem is that there are many other distractions. I like the main floor because I get a view of outside, but it sucks that people still sit there and talk constantly when they know what "library voices" are & when and where they are to be used. Sometimes I just want to yell, "SHUT UP!" to the inconsiderate people that don't whisper.

Response:
Instead of yelling "SHUT UP!," you should contact a Circulation Supervisor. You can do this via cell phone (803)777-3145 or via the reference librarians using the Ask-A-Librarian online service www.sc.edu/library/ask.html when Reference is staffed. Both of these methods can be very discrete without the knowledge of the offending parties. You can also go directly to the Circulation Desk or use the red phone available on each level to ask for help from a Circulation Supervisor.

You might also find the back of the Mezzanine Level by the windows a good alternative location.

The body cavity search every time I leave the library is annoying! OK- it's not that bad (as a body cavity search) but do they really have to look through every book I check out and even ask me inane questions about why I'm checking them out? Won't the alarm go off if I carry out a book that hasn't been properly checked out?

No wonder I have my GA check out most of my books! Going to the library shouldn't be the same as taking an international flight!

Response:
The bag check at the exit is a necessary precaution; HOWEVER, no staff member in any library should be asking why you are checking out particular books. If this happens again, you should report the person's behavior to their supervisor. Please feel free to contact Tucker Taylor at tucky@gwm.sc.edu or 777-3145 to discuss these issues.
___________

4/8/08, 6:30

Paper mail outs which inform us that "our books (on hold or through pascal) are available" are unnecessary wastes of paper. Email should suffice, and if students say they don't check email that is their own fault. The simple solution is to make it clear that if they request a book, they will be informed via email, so the responsibility to check falls on them. Why have campus email if the library can't use it? Stop the waste of paper and postage-we could acquire books with that!

Thank you.

Response:
Thank you for your comments.

4/1/08, 7:06, Level 4

1. Make it colder in here so it is easier to stay awake and focus.
2. Have drink stations with water more readily available.

Response:
1. Too cold for some; too hot for others. We can't win. Thermostat is set at 72 degrees. Sometimes the window seats are cool areas. Sometimes they are warm areas. Pick your spot carefully.

2. Water fountains are on each level beside the restrooms. We also have water bottles in vending machines and Coopers Corner.

___________

4/2/08, 8am, 3rd floor stacks near office & elevator area

The other evening I went to study in the stacks & went to the 3rd floor. After about 20 min I started having an allergic reaction---my guess the mold since I do have mold, dust mites and pollen allergies. It was a horrible feeling and if I experience it again I won't be able to study, which is a problem since I am a grad student in nursing and need to study here. My home is too noisy w/my children there.

TY

P.S. The fans on the third floor do nothing but circulate the dirt and filth on them---plus circulate the mold spores. I think DHEC needs to be in here.

Response:
If you have allergies as you describe, we think it best for you to study on Level 5 or the Mezzanine study area. You could also check the Government Information area on Level 5; however, you may encounter the same dust problem as books are in that area also, just not as many. The library staff continually check for mold and we are clear right now. If you have questions or concerns about the facility, you may contact Tucker Taylor at Tucky@gwm.sc.edu or call 777-3145.

___________

4/1/08, 8:00pm, Mezz 

*more laptops
*more couches!
*more movie and audio book selections
*more study rooms available for longer
*helpful reference staff
*the security checkpost--if they are going to make us open our stuff up they could at least look instead of glancing. Or just put tags that beep in all the library material so we can skip that whole process.

Response:
1. More Laptops will probably be purchased for the fall semester.
2. Have you found the soft seating in the back area of the Mezzanine?
3. We have lots of movies and audio books. Tell us what you want and we'll consider it. http://erequest.tcl.sc.edu/
4. We are working on the study room situation. We are very aware that we need more rooms and we have created some new ones. We will keep looking for opportunities to open/create more study rooms.
5. Notify Weathers@gwm.sc.edu if you find the reference staff unhelpful.
6. The bag check at the exit is a necessary precaution. If you would like to discuss this further, please feel free to contact Tucker Taylor at tucky@gwm.sc.edu or 777-3145.

___________

3/18/08, 8pm, 2nd floor back wall on side

I really wish this library would encourage people to talk quietly. On more than one occasion students gather and chat in their normal voices w/huge disregard to others around them. Nowhere are there signs asking people to be quiet and courteous of others. It's sad when you have to actually instruct these 18-20 year old on how to behave, but you have to. They are rude and disrespectful when they gather and talk. Please post signs reminding people to be quiet!

Thank you

Response:
When you encounter “rude and disrespectful” students, please report them to the Circulation Supervisor.

You can do this via cell phone (803)777-3145 or via the reference librarians using the Ask-A-Librarian online service http://www.sc.edu/library/ask.html when Reference is staffed. Both of these methods can be very discrete without the knowledge of the offending parties. You can also go directly to the Circulation Desk or use the red phone available on each level to ask for help from a Circulation Supervisor.

Faculty are requiring more group projects these days which require our students to be in an environment that accepts a certain level of conversation noise. Libraries are no longer just for quiet, individual study. We also know that some students do need an environment of total quiet. We are struggling to meet the needs of all our students. We have observed that the back areas of Level 5 and the Mezzanine are self-policing quiet areas.

___________

Suggestion: The computer lab is SO loud EVERY TIME I COME TO IT! You should seriously consider enforcing the cell phone policy of the Computer Lab. I won\'t be coming back until this occurs. It is so annoying!

Library Location: Columbia Thomas Cooper Library

Response:
We apologize for the noise in the lab; we do enforce the cell phone rule as much as possible. The Lab is a collaborative area and noise will probably be unavoidable. If you need a quieter work space you may want to check out a laptop and take it to another area of the library that is quieter.

Thank you for using our online suggestion form.

___________

3/27/08, 8:15, 4th floor

How about more books about sport; specifically in female athletes (soccer); telling us how important female grew up and is taking the men's place in the society and also on the field as well.

Dani Monteiro

Response:
Thanks for the suggestion.  I searched for books on “women soccer players.”  After sorting out books that were juvenile reading level, or fiction, or about Victoria Beckham, I came up with a pretty small list of books on this subject.  Here are the books we will order based on your suggestion.  Please let me know if you know of others.  The descriptions come from Global Books in Print.

There is a good deal of information in journals about women soccer players.  Our periodicals databases can lead you to articles in journals such as Sociology of sport journal.  Located in Thomas Cooper Library at GV 706.5 .S657 (Level 2)

Gary Geer
geer@sc.edu

The game and the glory : an autobiography
by Michelle Akers; Gregg Lewis
Language: English  Type:  Book
Publisher: Grand Rapids, Mich. : Zondervan Pub. House, ©2000.   

In addition to leading her teams to two World Cups & an Olympic Gold, Michelle Akers is a spokeswoman for the cause of soccer, women in general, & Jesus Christ. Her award-filled career, including the physical, personal, & spiritual struggles she has overcome, is the subject of this book.

Kicking against tradition : the autobiography of Wendy Owen, member of the first women's England side

by Wendy Owen
Language: English  Type:  Book
Publisher: Stroud : Tempus, 2005.   

The autobiography of Wendy Owen, who was a member of the first women's England football squad and appeared at Wembley in their first fixture there.

Wendy Owen is a significant figure in the history of British women's football. A powerful centerback, she starred for the English national side at a time when the sport really took off. They played their first international match against Scotland in 1972, and were the first to train on the pitch at Wembley Stadium and to travel to Europe to play countries such as Holland, France, and Italy. Appearing in 16 out of 18 internationals in the mid-1970s, she now coaches at a high level and is a lecturer in sports science. Wendy recounts her experience as part of the first Women's England Squad, the media coverage they attracted and what it was really like for a female footballer on tour in the '70s. She further examines the way the game has evolved to become the fastest growing sport in the UK today. 

___________

3/20/08, 4:30 pm, 4th floor

Vending machines on every floor.

Response:
This is happening slowly but surely.  Some machines have already been added to lower levels.

Email notifications that books are almost overdue.

Response:
We do send out email courtesy notices for most books that are coming due. If you are a student, these notices will go to your student email account. It's a good idea to check your junk mail settings if you are not receiving these messages. If you are not getting these emails, please contact Tucker Taylor at 777-3145 or tucky@gwm.sc.edu. You can also look up your account online in our catalog. There is a button that says my account, after you log in you can view your books checked out and renew them as well. If all else fails, we do still stamp the due date in the book.

___________

3/26/08, 1728 hours

1. The study rooms on the main floor should be made available to at least two people.  The main floor  becomes very noisy noisy with large groups who are not using those rooms,, If the large groups refuse to use them, then two people should be able to use them.

Response:
The study rooms on the main level are the only ones that are big enough for large groups. We have smaller study rooms on the lower levels that groups of two or more can use.  We need to reserve the group rooms on the main level so that large groups will have a place to work on projects.  If you would like to discuss this further, please feel free to contact Tucker Taylor at tucky@gwm.sc.edu or 777-3145.

2. Instead of people either not checking bags or if they do, it is done so poorly, an alarm should be installed at the exit gate.  It slows the exit flow when people have to stop and open their bags.

___________

3/25/08, 6:55 pm, 1st floor

Please try to renew the whole building, because I think that it's really hurting our reputation as one of the best upcoming schools in the country. Thank you for letting us give our opinion.

Response:
We are attempting to update and remodel the Thomas Cooper Library as we can little by little. The renovation of main level and the mezzanine level are the most obvious changes we’ve made. View the brief slide show of some of the renovations at http://flickr.com/photos/24138377@N03/sets/72157604059779289/show/ .

We appreciate your comments and suggestions.

___________

3/26/08, Level 3

Desks really sticky from food.

Response:
We’ll ask for extra attention on Level 3.

Help from all of you to keep the desks and tables clean would be greatly appreciated. If you don’t clean up after yourself, you are creating an unpleasant setting for the next student. Custodial can only clean most areas once a day, not after each student leaves an area.

___________

3/27/08, 7:30 pm, Main

Please try keeping the library a little warmer, at least at night. Because a little extra heat does no harm, but can't work or study while feeling cold.

Everything else is, as usual, fantastic.

Response:
I just checked the temperature in that area, and it is 73 degrees. I'll check with our facilities person to make sure it isn't dipping below 70 at night. Please feel free to contact me (Tucker Taylor) at 777-3145 or tucky@gwm.sc.edu if you have further questions or concerns.

Thanks for the compliment!

___________

3/20/08, 2:06 pm , 4th floor

Thank you for a wonderful library. Keep up the good work.

Response:
Thank you for your kind words.  We really are trying to make it the best it can be.

___________

3/24/08, 1:30, computer lab

The computer lab and the laptop rental should be 24 hours!

Response:
There are security and staffing issues with the lab staying open 24 hours, but we recently did increase staffing in the lab so that we could stay open until 2am.

___________

3/26/08

Install 50 inch LED or plasma display on each floor for USC news, announcements, and emergency messages.

Response:
News displays are being considered on the main level, but currently there is no funding for digital signage.

___________

3/19/08, 12:05 pm, Main Floor

First, I would like to thank you for the prompt response concerning the Black History display for February. But, I feel that my question was not really answered. I believe it was evaded and more or less looked over. I never asked about any reference books or any other reference material. I'm quite sure that type of information is available. I mean it has to be, this is an information library. I came in about a week after I had made the suggestion and there was really no attempt to correct the issue of the vacancy of some sort of Black History display. I understand that there are incredible pieces of literature, references and displays, but it would have been nice to see some sort of recognition, at least during Black History month.

Response:
Please contact Virginia@sc.edu to continue discussion of this issue.

___________

3/21/08, 7:30, Mezzanine

I thought the library was open 24 hrs. People study on Fridays too.

Response:
We are currently open 24/5.   We will be open 24/7 this semester beginning Monday, April 14^th during our Exam Schedule.  We are planning to be open 24/7 during the 2008 fall semester.   

___________

3/18/08, 9:oo am, 2nd floor

It would be nice if there were drink and snack machines on a couple of the lower levels so studiers don't have to go all the way up to 5 for a drink or the main level for a snack.

Response:
This is happening slowly but surely.  Some machines have been added to levels 1, 2, 3 & 4.

___________

3/22/08, 1745 hours, Main floor

1. Although students are directed into the hall to use their cell phones, some talk so loudly that you can still hear them! Can more signs be posted in that area for quiet?

Response:
OK - we will work on that.  Thank you for this good suggestion.

2. Only groups are allowed to use the study rooms. The main floor is packed w/groups of students who should use the rooms, but don't. Instead, us single students have to listen to them and all of the noise. Can priority be given to groups and grad students for the study rooms?

Response:
The study rooms are for groups.  We need to be sure that these groups KNOW that they can get a study room.   However, the study rooms do fill up during peak assignment-due periods leaving open areas as the alternative.   We will advertise the study room option as appropriate.  Know that we are trying to create more group study areas to help with group noise.

___________

3/19/08, Level 5

It's always cold in here!

___________

Turn the heat up.

Response:
Yes, it's often cold on one side of the building and warm on the other side.  We've addressed this issue for many years, but the complicated HVAC system will not bow to our personal thermostats, nor to changing weather conditions.  But we never give up trying.

___________

The library should have a book return on Sumter Street at the bus stop.

Response:
We originally asked to have a book return on Sumter St., but there were concerns raised about complicating an already busy street with stop-and-go traffic.  We do have a drive-up book return in between the health center and the Bull St. garage.  If you would like to discuss this further, please feel free to contact Tucky Taylor at tucky@gwm.sc.edu or 777-3145.

___________

3/24/08, 12:20 pm, Room 409

I came to the library on Sunday, March 23, at 6pm only to find out that it was closed. I understand that it was Easter, but we were not informed at all about the closure. I was here all day Thursday and saw no signs about the closing nor did anyone say anything about the library being closed. The assistants sure do not have a problem telling me about the 4 hour limit each and every time I check out a study room which is usually 3-4 times per week. I would have just liked to have known the dates and let everyone else know when the library will be closed. Perhaps a campus wide email.

Response:
I apologize for your inconvenience and I like your suggestion. 

We did change the message on our hours line – (803)777-8169, and there was a sign on the front door.  Our HOURS Website notes that we are closed on Easter.  http://www.sc.edu/library/hours.html     

It appears from your experience that we need something a little more jarring for a drastic change in the hours schedule such as Easter closing.  We will work on that.

___________

3/19/08, 9:00, Main floor

All tables on the main floor should have outlets because a lot of students bring laptops to the library that need to be plugged in.

Free snacks!!!
Elevator music!

Response:
Having enough outlets is a big concern.  If you’ve ever blown a fuse or breaker at home, you know about overloading an electrical system.   We are adding outlets and power strips as we can.  Currently we are adding outlets to Level 5.  We are also rearranging some furniture on Level 2 so we can put tables near existing outlets. 

There is no free lunch, nor will there be free snacks.
Not likely to add elevator music.  BTW, why do you want elevator music?

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March 21, 2008, 7:30, Mezz.

The idea that a student at Carolina is unable to use the facility of the Thomas Cooper Library on a Friday night is simply disturbing. Considering that academics should be a major priority for students, the lack of support from our campus library disappoints me. Thomas Cooper needs to be open AT LEAST until midnight no matter what day of the week.

Response:
We will begin 24/7 this semester for our exam schedule which starts Monday, April 14^th.  We are planning to be open 24/7 during the 2008 fall semester. 

___________

2/25/08, 3:00pm, 4th floor

They should have vending machines on every floor.

___________

3/5/08, 4:00 pm, 4th floor

Vending machines on every floor

Response:
We are adding vending machines to the building as fast as we can.  The newest ones went to Levels 1  & 3 last week.

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3/19/08, 1:11am (Note the hour), Ref Z 6021-6621 (table)-Main Floor

I think we should have dinner/breakfast delivered to our table. I am hungry and Russell House is far away. These chairs are hard and not conducive to a learning or studying environment. My butt hurts which makes my head hurt which makes it hard to focus. Please fix that! As well as hunger, I am thirsty, my throat desires vitamin water. Unfortunately, the VW machine does not take CAROLINA CARD, so now I have a butt load of money on my card but can't even use it for the things I NEED. You would make more money. In the end it's all about the money, right? The pictures of birds and twigs on the wall are ugly, my eyeballs have ulcers. And please open the balcony to study on. The fresh air might clear my head from all this crap I have to do. Thank you for being so concerned about what it is that I want!

Response:
Venting is a good way to relieve frustration.  I am glad you found our suggestion form.  It also gives me a chance to let all know that we have explored the possibility of opening the balcony.  We too think it is a good potential study space; however, it is extremely expensive to reconfigure it.  If we find a donor who is willing to contribute the money, we would love to open that area to the students.

As for you rear end, you might want to switch your study space to the area by the west wall windows.  Those seats are padded.

We'll find out about the Vitamin Water machine and what is necessary to get the Carolina Card added to it.

Sorry you don't like the pictures.  They are highly regarded Audubon's that are quite beautiful to many art lovers and naturalist.

3/17/08, 2pm, near snack area

Enforce noise/volume restrictions. Too many students have long, loud, non-academic conversations. Please monitor or somehow inform students to take cell phone conversations elsewhere.

Response:
We have posted signs for cell phone users to take their calls into the hallways on Main Level.  Some noise on Main Level, especially in the eating areas, will be tolerated.  However, in the future please alert Circulation staff if the noise level reaches an unacceptable level.

___________

Suggestion: Hello,

Just to let you know that the 1970 publication \'The Eye of the Storm: A People\'s Politics for the Seventies\' was written by Albert Gore Sr., not his son, Al Gore Jr, as in your catalogue.

Response:
The catalog record has been corrected.  Thank you.

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3/13/08 Main Floor

Although Spring Break is a time for "spring cleaning" some consideration needs to be given to students who use the library during that time. Carpet cleaning should take place on a day when the library closes early (eg Saturday 2pm). The workers started moving chairs at 5pm and were EXTREMELY noisy!! As a student trying to finish my dissertation, I need every hour.

Response:
We apologize for the inconvenience.  In hindsight, if we had known ahead of time, we could have given you fair warning that cleaning was about to take place so you could have used one of the lower levels or the computer lab for your remaining 3 hours.  We will try to post cleaning schedules well ahead of time in the future.

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3/16/08

-MORE OUTLETS!!!, there should be plugs at every table.
-Extend laptop check out times.

Response:
Outlets, there are never enough nor are they in the right place.  Know that we are working on the situation and as we remodel areas we are adding outlets and power strips.

Laptop checkout is for 4 hours.  We base that on battery life.  They can be renewed.

___________

Suggestion: Hello,

I saw the Homepage of the Internet.
May I ask you a question?
If possible, I would like to donate a book to the Library.
Book was published by "Shingpoosha" at Tokyo.
The book is an Essay for the meaning ( philosophy ) of life , 2002.
However, the book has been written by myself in Japanese.
I would send a book if that is all right.
Sorry, I didn't explain in English well.

Sincerely,

Higuchi Harutoshiü@( ö≤î√É↓òq )
7-7-3 Takamoridai

Kasugai Aichi 487-0032
Japan
Library Location: Columbia Thomas Cooper Library

Email: higuchiharutoshi@msn.com

___________

Suggestion: Could we go back to having separate sessions for faculty and staff? Many staff do not feel comfortable expressing themselves honestly with faculty around.

___________

...MESSAGE FROM THE INTERIM DEAN

All library faculty and staff are invited to attend one of a series of sessions in which I will provide updates on library initiatives and plans.

The sessions will be held in the staff lounge on March 25 at 2:00 p.m., and on March 27 at 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. Light refreshments will be served.

- Contributed by Tom McNally...

___________

3/8/08

We need more tables on the main floor!!!

Response:
Our plans include more student seating on the main level.  It won't happen fast, but we're headed that way.
___________

(In response to our response to their previous suggestion)

If some people need a letter mailed to them to let them know a book is in, perhaps there could be an option: email or mail.

Response:
Makes sense.  We'll find out if our automated integrated library system (ILS) can handle it.  Essential notices will continue to be sent via paper.

___________

March 7, 2008, 1:07 pm, 4th floor

The gentleman at the service desk was really nice and offered to help me! Thanks

Response:
Thank you for letting us know.

___________

3/5/08, 9:17, 1st floor

Wireless Internet!!!!

Response:
We do have Wireless Internet throughout Thomas Cooper Library.  To use the wireless you will need to take your laptop to the Computer Lab on level 5 to have it setup to work with our wireless system.  If you've  done that and you are still having trouble accessing the wireless please let one of the staff in the computer lab know about any wireless dead zones you have encountered in the library

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3/6/08, 12:44, 1st floor

I feel that if you got greeters, like Walmart, to greet the students as they entered then the library would have more students come and have a positive attitude.

Response:
We will take your suggestion for the fall semester when we have a lot of new students.  Like the idea!  We've tried it in the past.  Staffing and scheduling became a big issue, and staffing will continue to be an issue.
___________

3/6/08, Everywhere

Hire Hooters girls to be the Librarians/Receptionists. Seriously, DO IT!

Response:
Nope.

___________

3/5/08, Level 3

More Coffee!!!!!!!

Response:
Did we run out of coffee in the coffee shop?

___________

3/5/08, 12:00am (A.K.A. too late for loud and repetitive announcements)

Get rid of the obnoxiously repetitive announcements. Very distracting and annoying. At least make them shorter, less repetitive, and quieter, or something.

Response:
Sorry for the interruption.  We need to let non USC students know when they need to leave the building.  Some areas are louder than others depending where the speakers are.  Some people are unable to hear the announcements.  We'll exam