Comments for Richter Library

1 Good afternoon, I have written multiple emails stating that I did return the book Sab when it was due. No one has contacted me back, I am still blocked. How can this be fixed? Sincerely, Gabriela Hernandez

Comment on Thu Jun 3, 2021, 1:30 pm

We are sorry to hear that you have a block on your account. We have multiple active user accounts with the name Gabriela Hernandez, but I don't see that any of them are blocked or have a returned book called Sab. I am not sure what email you have been sending to, but you can always email libraries@miami.edu or richter.circulation@miami.edu for help. You can also contact one of the circulation supervisors at the Richter Front Desk at 305-284-3233 to resolve the issue.

Answered by Glen Wiley, Associate Dean, Access and Discovery Services

2 I would like to report a very serious concern about the safety of the library. After managing everything perfectly, putting wipes everywhere, and letting students in only by prior appointment, still, there are some people inside who do not simply take the first step: properly wearing a mask or wearing a mask at all. I understand that librarians cannot really go from one person to another and check people, but this is frustrating. We sit here for hours in an indoor environment with AC on and coughing with a mask that doesn't cover the nose or not wearing a mask at all because there are few people around, is not acceptable and put others in danger or in great distress! I have no idea what I can do as a student except not coming to the library anymore . But I thought I need to share this concern with you.

Comment on Sat Feb 13, 2021, 3:58 pm

Thank you for letting us know about the mask violation and public health safety issue you experienced in Richter Library. I have let the current Access Services staff and student workers know to patrol our library spaces better. We normally have public health safety checks and head counts hourly.

If you do find that someone in your vicinity that is not respecting the University's mask policy, please stop by the Access Services desk or email our Access Services Department at : accessteam@miami.edu and someone should respond quickly. We hope you will consider coming back to visit the Libraries soon.

Answered by Glen Wiley, Associate Dean, Access and Discovery Services

3 I just wanted to say that I love our library and enjoy studying and hanging out in it. I think everyone who works there is kind and helpful and I really feel like it's a great study space.

Comment on Wed Jan 29, 2020, 9:42 am

Thanks so much!

Answered by Andrew Darby, Head, Web & Application Development

4 Hi, the grey swivel chairs in the 1st floor Flexible Learning Commons are uncomfortable - they recline too far back and too easily. You either have to sit straight-backed with no support or reclined at 45 degrees. I would like if they are replaced, perhaps by the orange/green cushioned swivel chairs in the Math/Writing Lab space. I prefer the ones with armrests. Thanks

Comment on Thu Jan 23, 2020, 2:30 pm

Thank you for your comment regarding the chairs in the Flexible Program Spaces at the Learning Commons. Having such feedback will aid us with future plans for furnishing these spaces. We provide a variety of seating options on the floor to meet a range of work preferences, and if you need assistance with locating a seat that better meets your needs at the time, please visit the Learning Commons Consultation Zone Service Point for support. Happy studying!

Answered by Roxane Pickens, Director, Learning Commons

5 So many students and I, encountered many insect in the graduate commons, from ants, flies, mosquitos, to big spiders. It is very disturbing while studying for finals, having to fight with mosquitos and protect yourself from spiders.

Comment on Wed May 8, 2019, 10:19 pm

We're sorry to hear that your studies have been disturbed by insects. I've submitted a Facilities work order to have the Graduate Commons fumigated as soon as possible. Please don't hesitate to contact us immediately if you see insects anywhere in the Libraries. Contacting one of the supervisors at the Richter Front Desk is probably the quickest way to get attention to these kind of matters, but you are also welcome to email me directly at : cgowing@miami.edu

Answered by Cheryl Gowing, Associate Dean, Library Facilities, Space Planning & Organizational Development

6 During finals Graduate Commons has been very noisy. There is a bunch of people who have been using the area as a group study. There are multiple people occupying rooms, slamming doors, and talking loudly with no consideration of others. Currently there's this guy constantly knocking on room 8 and talking to the occupant there and being disruptive.

Comment on Thu May 2, 2019, 2:06 pm

We're sorry to hear that fellow students are not respecting the Graduate Commons quiet zone and prohitibiton of group study within the space. We will add signage within the room to reiterate the need for quiet study. We do have someone walk the floor hourly, but will add to the number of patrols during the remainder of the finals period.

If you do find that someone in the Graduate Commons is not respecting the quiet study zone, please email our Access Services Department at : accessteam@miami.edu and someone should respond quickly.

Answered by Cheryl Gowing, Associate Dean, Library Facilities, Space Planning & Organizational Development

7 The library should have a noise police on second floor- quiet study area. Many students come to second floor but still chitchat and can be very annoying and disturbing. If the student is caught being loud, the noise police should give a first notice. Anyone who had 3 notices shouldn’t be allowed on second floor. Record should be able to loaded in the cane card. Today I came to the second floor, the three students sitting next to me were eating, talking and laughing but studying throughout the entire time when they are here. Many people around are annoyed by the behaviors. There should also be a report system so that impropriate behaviors can be reported and stopped. Quiet study area is aim to provide a better study environment. However, related monitoring control is urgently needed.

Comment on Wed May 1, 2019, 1:13 am

Thank you for letting us know about the noise issue you've experienced on the second floor. We will add signage to reiterate the need for quiet study on the floor and will escalate our patrols of the floor.

If you do find that someone in your vicinity is not respecting the quiet study zone, please email our Access Services Department at : accessteam@miami.edu and someone should respond quickly.

Answered by Cheryl Gowing, Associate Dean, Library Facilities, Space Planning & Organizational Development

8 I found that the bathroom door on the sixth floor of the library may be broken and it will make a harsh sound. Richter Library

Comment on Sun Mar 17, 2019, 8:25 pm

We are very sorry you encountered this problem, the door has been fixed and it is working correctly. Have a great day!

Answered by Roca Beiro, Facilities Manager

9 Came to the library to work on a practice test today and the computers on the second floor were gone! It is totally unacceptable in my opinion. The first floor is not a conducive study environment and it was already an issue that there were only 12 computers provided in the entire rest of the library where it is actually quiet and a proper place to focus, but to take these away is ridiculous. Not only are there certain things, such as online exams with specific formatting, that require a large screen such as the ones on the dell desktops but there are also students who do not have the finances to own their own computer or laptop and to essentially force these students to work on the first floor, where there is regularly too much conversation for anybody to really focus is inconsiderate and discriminatory. Also please fix the outlets in the floor and tables of the second floor...many of them do not work forcing student to relocate in the middle of their study session when they try to charge their laptop and discover this issue. When the library is busy such as finals this can mean having to move to a different campus building altogether. For the amount of tuition we pay there is no good reason for issues such as these to go unresolved for as long as they have. This is my 6th year at the university and there are outlets that have been broken my entire college career!

Comment on Tue Jan 8, 2019, 9:59 pm

We're sorry that you did not find the 2nd fl computers when expected. The computers were temporarily removed in order to prepare the area for new furniture. The furniture delivery was scheduled for the Winter Break in order to minimize the disruption to students, but the devliery ended up being later in the Break than expected. The computers will be restored to the 2nd fl at individual work stations as soon as the electrical & data work needed to accomodate the new furniture is complete.

Please remember that the library has laptops for loan available at the First Floor Access Desk. You are welcome to check out a laptop and study where you find it most comfortable in the library.

We have asked that an electrician review all public outlets on the 2nd fl and resolve any malfunctioning/inactive outlets.

Answered by Cheryl Gowing, Associate Dean, Library Facilities, Space Planning & Organizational Development

10 The library is too often much too cold on the first floor, like tonight. I would like to talk to somebody who can make at least some parts of the library warmer. It is hard to work when people get sick from the cold. I noticed some personnel behind the front desk are wearing two sweaters tonight. Maybe central facilities can allow some control within the library of the temperature when the ac produces too much cold air.

Comment on Tue Jul 3, 2018, 9:52 pm

UM Facilities has been working to upgrade the HVAC / Building controls throughout Richter for the past several months with the ultimate goal of putting all spaces on a system that monitors and alerts Facilities when areas are outside of the proscribed temperature range [70-74 degrees]. They are still in the process of configuring these systems and we've had a couple of instances where areas become either too hot or too cold. Library staff are not able to adjust temperature controls, but they can call in problems to UM Facilities, so if you do feel that the temperature is either excessively cold or hot, please contact the staff at the Front Desk to let them know.

Answered by Cheryl Gowing, Associate Dean, Library Facilities, Space Planning & Organizational Development

11 What is going on with the first floor bathroom? It smells like a porta-potty that has been baking in the sun for three weeks and is just horrid. Yesterday two stalls were closed and then they were open later in the day but it looks like the floor was washed in the water from those broken stalls. The over all maintenance and cleanliness is horrid and really needs to be addressed.

Comment on Tue Apr 17, 2018, 10:07 am

04-9-18 Update: UM Facilities has been working to address the problem caused by two toilets with unusually deep clogged drains with various types of refuse. A plumber had to be called to unclog the drains and they are treating the space with various cleaners to dissapte the foul odor. Again, our apologies for the odor.

We apologize for condition of the Richter 1st Fl Bathrooms. I've submitted a work order to UM Facilities to have this addressed ASAP. In the future, if you find the bathrooms to be in need of housekeeping, please don't hesitate to alert the Front Desk staff who can then contact Facilities directly.

Answered by Cheryl Gowing, Associate Dean, Library Facilities, Space Planning & Organizational Development

12 I am a faculty member who uses the writing center. I am very concerned about the current physical set up of the writing center. My writing materials are confidential at times (e.g., exam questions), but there is no privacy in the way the consultation tables are set up. In addition, writing requires concentration, but the current setup is very noisy as it is in the area anyone can come in. This is also a concern I have for my students who use the writing center. I want them to be able to focus on writing and getting writing help in a quiet space. I think my students' learning is best facilitated this way. I would like to know how the library addresses my concerns for faculty and students who are seriously seeking writing support. Thank you.

Comment on Tue Apr 17, 2018, 9:54 am

Dear Professor,
Thank you for raising your concerns. I hope that with the opening of the new Learning Commons area it will help resolve any issues you have.
Best,
Dennis Smith

Answered by Dennis Smith, Head of Access Services

13 Hello, I am in the graduate study room. For over an hour, there has been a REALLY LOUD group in one of the group study rooms near the elevator on the 2nd floor next to the graduate study area. I have been wearing headphone and can still hear them. Is there any way that someone could ask them to decrease the volume just a little?

Comment on Mon Apr 16, 2018, 9:03 pm

We're sorry your study was disturbed by a noisy group in the adjacent room. If this occurs again, please don't hesitate to contact the Front Desk staff who will be happy to speak with the offending group. If you are reluctant to leave your study area, you can call the Front Desk at 305-284-3233 or email richter.circulation@miami.edu, or you can call the Consultation Zone at 305-284-4722 or email richterreference@miami.edu .

Answered by Cheryl Gowing, Associate Dean, Library Facilities, Space Planning & Organizational Development

14 I am curious as to what happened to the puzzle section that used to be in the library? It was a great way to relax during stressful times and I honestly miss it. =( So sad to see it gone.

Comment on Thu Feb 15, 2018, 10:35 am

Thanks for your question and comment! We’re glad that you found the puzzle section a helpful resource. There are so many exciting things in the works here at Richter Library that we needed to store the puzzles to make more room for individual and collaborative workstations. If you're looking for a way to de-stress, please consider attending one of our Mindfulness at Richter sessions, a 30-minute guided practice of calming and refreshment. The next gathering is Wednesday, February 28, from 4-4:30 p.m. on the 3rd floor. Hope you can join us!

Answered by Roxane Pickens, Director, Learning Commons

15 The left side of the library has been shut for almost an entire year now. This is a very large section of the library that was frequently used for group projects and independent study. Without this space now, it is nearly impossible to find a spot in the library during peak hours. I have always relied on the library as my main study and workspace and now I have had to seek out other areas on campus to study due to lack of space/availability. Additionally, the space that is available is now very loud due to the constant construction. Better soundproofing should be installed so that the study area that is left can be a quiet space to concentrate and work with our groups.

Comment on Mon Feb 5, 2018, 2:52 pm

Thank you for your comments. We appreciate knowing that Richter Library has been a source of support to you in your studies, and we regret that the Learning Commons renovation project has made your workflow more challenging. The construction company responsible for the renovations has installed more substantive soundproofing material to help mitigate some of the noise. Luckily, the project is nearing its completion, and we look forward to soon being able to provide improved areas for indivdual and collaborative work.

Answered by Roxane Pickens, Director, Learning Commons

16 Student study areas such as group study rooms on the second floor are being used for other purposes for long periods of time during finals season. It seems unfair since half of the first floor is already closed off and study space is so limited.

Comment on Wed Nov 29, 2017, 4:47 pm

We regret the necessity of taking Group Study Rms 225 & 226 off line for several hours yesterday. The Libraries had the privilege of hosting the Fall meeting of the Association of Southeastern Research Libraries and the reception for the ASERL Directors/Deans was held in the Cuban Heritage Collection last evening. When reception/large events occur in the CHC Reading Room, we often need to use those two group study rooms for catering/media/prep, due to lack of appropriate space elsewhere. This situation should be rectified on the opening of the Kisklak Center in the former Brockway Hall in the early 2018.

Richter Library will move into our 24/7 hour schedule beginning next Tuesday, Dec. 5th and remain open 24/7 through Wed., Dec. 20th. In addition, University Administration has given permssion for a special study tent with lighting, power, tables & chairs for 100, to be set up next week on the Foote Green to provide additional study space in these final two and a half weeks of the semester. We recognize the exra challenges Hurricane Irma and the delayed completion of the Learning Commons renovation have placed on students and are doing our best to make whatever accomodations we are able.

Answered by Cheryl Gowing, Associate Dean, Library Facilities, Space Planning & Organizational Development

17 The filter on the first floor water fountain needs to be changed. It is currently red. Thank you!

Comment on Mon Nov 27, 2017, 12:26 pm

Thank you for reporting this! We've notified University Facilities who will fix the filter today.

Answered by Cheryl Gowing, Associate Dean, Library Facilities, Space Planning & Organizational Development

18 Why is the water fountain on the first floor so hot? It never seems to run cold. Could this please be looked into this? It is really a pain when I have to get more water and go to another floor. Space is limited and I risk losing my study space every time.

Comment on Wed Oct 18, 2017, 12:20 pm

Thank you for bringing this to our attention, We were not aware of this, I am reporting it to Facilities to see what they can do to make the water colder on that water faountain.

Answered by Roca Beiro, Facilities Manager

19 The construction going on at the library can be heard throughout the stacks, which are supposed to be quiet zones. It is extremely distracting to someone trying to work in silence. A library is supposed to be a good place for quiet work, but with the construction it's hard to focus. Quiet places to study are hard to find on campus when working from home is not an option.

Comment on Wed Oct 18, 2017, 10:39 am

Thank you for your comments. Unfortunately, the construction noise is unavoidable. Most construction is limited to Monday through Friday 8am-5pm and Saturdays. We know the noise is an inconvenience but hopefully next semester you will be able to enjoy the new redesigned spaces as well as the quiet zones. For this semester, we suggest other study spaces such as the Music, Law or Architecture libraries during construction hours.

Answered by Dennis Smith, Head of Access Services

20 Would like to have the new book section again

Comment on Tue Oct 17, 2017, 12:48 pm

We are happy to announce that we have reinstall the New Book Section on the first floor. This collection had to be removed due to construction, however, we were able to create space to put it back into place before the construction was done. We are in the process of getting signage to identify its location, but you may find it on the first floor in the last section of shelving behind our DVD Media Section.

Answered by Dennis Smith, Head of Access Services

21 I just made a request on a book but now I want to cancel my request, how do I do that? Thanks!

Comment on Fri Aug 11, 2017, 12:44 am

Hey Kaming Lo,
To cancel a request, go to the library website: HTTP://library.miami.edu, selected the Account+ from the far right of the menu bar. Then log into MyLibrary. Once you log in, select the Account Icon in the top right corner (looks like a person). This will show you everything about your library account including your requests. You can then cancel any requests from that page.
Best,
Dennis Smith
Head of Access Services

Answered by Dennis Smith, Head of Access Services

22 There seem to be a lot of ants on the desks in the second floor this summer. No matter where I sit there is bound to be an ant walking on or around the desk. I had never noticed this as an issue within the past two years of being a student. Any way to fix this?

Comment on Tue Jul 25, 2017, 10:58 am

Thank you for bringing this to our attention, we have already notified Facilities re. this matter and they will be fumigating the area to have the ants removed. Roca M. Beiro

Answered by Roca Beiro, Facilities Manager

23 It seems like the secondary floor of library is quiet space and for study. People from Cuban Heritage place come out and always talk in a loud voice. Is that a quiet place or talking is permitted

Comment on Fri Jul 21, 2017, 12:22 pm

Thank you for bringing the issue of noise on the second floor to our attention. We have spoken to the staff and will also alert our visitors and patrons leaving the Cuban Heritage Collection that they are transitioning into a"Quiet Zone." I can't promise that you will hear no noise because the floor is deemed a "quiet zone" and not a "silent zone" but we will redouble our efforts to be mindfull of the need for quiet as staff and other patrons leave and enter that space.

Answered by Beatrice Skokan, Head of Manuscripts & Archives Management, Curator of Caribbean Collections & Subject Liaison for French and Francophone Studies

24 like the addition of the newspaper and magazine racks by the entrance.

Comment on Sat Jun 10, 2017, 1:51 pm

Thank you for sharing your positive thoughts with us! Let us know if there are particular newspapers and magazines you most enjoy reading in the UM Libraries.

Answered by Kelly Miller, Associate Dean, Learning & Research Services

25 Hi, my name is Erika I am Doctoral student at the graduate study room trying to use a computer to work on a presentation and projects but it's not connecting to the Internet Can you please help? Thank you Erika

Comment on Sat May 6, 2017, 3:44 pm

Greetings, Erika! I'm sorry that the computer you are using is not connecting to the Internet, especially during this high pressure time at the end of the semester. The next time this happens, please let the staff member at the Information & Research Desk on the first floor know, and that person will trouble shoot and/or report the issue. I will send a staff member to the Graduate Study Room to take a look.

Answered by Lisa Baker, Head, Richter Library Learning & Research Services

26 It seems like there has been an increase in the number of dogs seen in the library. These dogs do not appear to be service animals. What is the policy about pets in the library?

Comment on Wed Apr 19, 2017, 3:32 pm

Hi- Yes, we've noticed the same thing this year. We've spoken with the Office of Disability Services to clarify the University's policy on service animals. Service dogs are defined as those "specially trained to assist persons with visual disabilities, hearing impairments, or mobility impairments by performing specific tasks." Service dogs often wear some sort of special collar, vest, or harness, but they are not required to do so. UM Libraries welcomes service animals in all of our libraries.

Assistance animals (e.g. emotional support animals) are only allowed in the owner's campus residence and are not allowed in the Libraries or other campus buildings. We will review our signage over the summer and work with our staff to address instances where patrons wish to bring a dog into the library.

You can see the University's policy on Service and Assistance Animals at: http://www.umarc.miami.edu/arc/Campus-Accessibility.html

Answered by Cheryl Gowing, Associate Dean, Library Facilities, Space Planning & Organizational Development

27 Does UM have a complete list of all the academic journals to which the university subscribes? It would be incredibly convenient to be able to quickly navigate past paywalls on sites like PNAS, Science Magazine, and Nature when teaching English 107 classes for the College of Engineering or RSAMaS. Please do e-mail me if you can help me out!

Comment on Tue Feb 14, 2017, 11:04 pm

For e-journal coverage information, select the “E-journals” link on the Library home page. Then within uSearch, search for a specific e-journal by title. Clicking the “Find Online” button will then display our online coverage for that title, along with all available access links.

Answered by Daniel E. Roose, Acquisitions Librarian

28 I AM A PHD ALUMNI I WANT TO KNOW IF I CAN HAVE ACCESS TO THE LIBRARY REMOTELY SO I CAN ACCESS JOURNALS AND ARTICLES. IF I NEED TO PAY A YEARLY FEE TO DO SO.

Comment on Tue Feb 14, 2017, 3:38 pm

Hi - All UM alumnus are eligible to access two specialized research databases, Academic Search Alumni Edition and Business Source Alumni Edition. Both require a special username and password, obtainable via the UM Alumni Association. You can get more information about this services, as well as a link to obtain a password via the UM Alumni Association at: http://library.miami.edu/patron/alumnus/

Our license agreements prohibit the Libraries from providing alumni remote access to all of our licensed electronic resources, however these two special subscriptions have been created to allow some continued access to electronic content for alumni. If you live in the area, you can gain entrance to Richter Library by showing your UM Alumni Cane Card or Alumni Association Card, then obtain a temporary code to use our public computers to access all of the Libraries' electronic resources.

Answered by Cheryl Gowing, Associate Dean, Library Facilities, Space Planning & Organizational Development

29 The energy connectors in some table is not working. Some table in the first floor does not have connector to charge computer. We are in the final exam week, the library is crowed and people cannot laptops in the back of the first floor because some table does not have connector and some that have connector, it is broken.

Comment on Sun Dec 4, 2016, 1:06 pm

Hi- You are correct that many of the open study tables do not have electric connections, particularly those along the Ashe side of the building on the 1st fl. Unfortunately, we have reached our electrical capacity for the bulding and cannot add additional outlets without a renovation. Our later phases of the Learning Commons project call for a renovation of the central and green-facing side of the 1st floor with additional electrical capacity, but until that project is funded, we cannot add outlets.

You also mentioned that some of the existing tables with electronic connections are not working properly. If you can contact me privately, it would be helpful if we could meet so you can show me which tables are having problems. We do sometimes have issues wtih students unplugging the connections in order to connect their own devices directly, but as of this morning everything appears to be plugged in and/or directly wired. Please either email me at cgowing@miami.edu or call my office: 305-284-6018.

Answered by Cheryl Gowing, Associate Dean, Library Facilities, Space Planning & Organizational Development

30 I have a suggestion for the library's website. It would be nice to have a section on the website's home page where users can peruse through a list of what books are in the bestsellers shelf at Richter. This would be useful without having to physically make it over to Richter and this would gives us a chance to go online to investigate if we want to check it out or put it on hold for our next visit to the library. Thanks!

Comment on Fri Nov 18, 2016, 1:37 pm

Thank you for your suggestion. As it happens, we are starting work on a website redesign, and we will add your idea to the list of things we would like to investigate.

Answered by Andrew Darby, Head, Web & Application Development

31 Dear Mr. Cabrera , On a recent visit to the library I noticed welcoming messages in many languages including French and Arabic. Why was Hebrew neglected?

Comment on Fri Nov 18, 2016, 12:34 pm

Thank you for this important suggestion. Our intent in selecting the languages of the top ten countries represented by UM’s student population was to create a welcoming rather than exclusionary message. We will update the sign to reflect more languages spoken at the U, including Hebrew, during the renovation period next summer

Answered by Jose M. Cabrera, Director of Creative

32 I understand the first floor is open for group study, meaning people will be talking, however I don't understand how it is possibly okay to have people here that aren't doing school work. There's a group of 4 taking up half of a round table that are comparing girls' breasts on instagram and mocking being caught cheating on a midterm paper. I don't think individuals like these should be allowed to take up space in the library when others are trying to actually study.

Comment on Wed Nov 16, 2016, 10:23 pm

Thank you very much for sharing your concerns with us. I'm very sorry that others' conversations disturbed you while you were trying to study. The UM Libraries is committed to fostering a welcoming and supportive learning environment in keeping with the University's mission and values. In the future, please don't hesitate to let a library staff member know if visitors to the library are keeping you from being able to study. We will address your concerns as quickly as possible, so that you can return to studying. If you'd like to meet with me to talk about your concerns, please let me know.

Answered by Kelly Miller, Associate Dean, Learning & Research Services

33 I reserved a study room in the library, but when I went up to the desk to get the room key, I was questioned and forced to present my group. I had reserved the study room to study for a test, but not all of my group members had arrived yet. They were only running a few minutes late, and we were forced to study in the main area while the room (and several others) sat empty. If we reserve rooms, they should let us use them. What's the point of room reservations if they aren't even going to be available for use? In addition, with the first floor now used mostly for ARC tutoring services, the writing center, and the math lab, it is near impossible to find a table for my group and I to sit all together and study. This is why I had to reserve a study room in the first place.

Comment on Wed Sep 21, 2016, 10:45 am

We are currently working on the study room process. At this time, we are not requiring the full group in order to check out the key. I will be working with my staff to ensure that this type of situation doesn't occur again.

We have moved to the key checkout system as a means to improve study room usage. We will look at any way to improve this service over the semester especially as we prepare for exam cycles. Please feel free to contact me directly if you encounter any issues.

Dennis Smith
Head of Access Services
dennis.smith@miami.edu
305-284-6466

Answered by Dennis Smith, Head of Access Services

34 I don't think the study rooms should be exclusive to only study groups. Since we have to make reservations for the rooms either way, it's only fair that everyone has a chance at reserving a study room, whether they are a group or not. If a group needs a room, they can reserve it in advance, and if a student would like to use the room, they should have the opportunity to make a reservation as well and use the study room for their needs as well.

Comment on Tue Sep 13, 2016, 1:18 pm

The Richter Library has a limited number of study rooms available. During a recent study, we discovered how they are being underutilized and often used by single individuals. We would often have groups come to the desk about rooms that were booked but empty or occupied by a single individual while the group had to use the common area. This led us to our new procedures for room reservations and checkout.

These rooms are designed to allow for a more collaborative working space which is great demand on the campus while the second floor is set aside for quiet study for individuals. Often groups that don't have access to study rooms must conduct their assignment together on the first floor which contributes to the noise level.

We are currently discussing options to provide a single room for someone who needs to conduct a skype interview and hope to have a solution. If you are in need of individual study space, the stacks floors provide large individual desk areas for study.

Dennis Smith
Head of Access Services

Answered by Dennis Smith, Head of Access Services

35 Hello! I wanted to send a quick note of appreciation. Today I needed assistance with locating an article. When I chatted with the librarian online they were patient, helpful, and willing to walk me through the process one step at a time. Thank you! Going above and beyond to help students is extremely helpful and much appreciated!

Comment on Sun Sep 4, 2016, 2:27 pm

Thank you so much for your note -- I'm glad you had a good experience at Richter Library! And it's great to have recognition for our hardworking staff. We're here for you!

Answered by Lisa Baker, Head, Richter Library Learning & Research Services

36 looking for this book: Foundations of Educational Technology: Integrative Approaches and Interdisciplinary Perspe

Comment on Thu Sep 1, 2016, 3:06 pm

Hello! This looks like a great resource for our Libraries to purchase. When it arrives, we will make sure to put it on hold for you and send you an email. In the future, you can use the "Recommend a Purchase" form. Look for the link to this form at the very bottom of the "Libraries & Collections" tab on the UM Libraries home page: library.miami.edu.

Answered by Lisa Baker, Head, Richter Library Learning & Research Services

37 Great upgrade to the computers in the graduate student area - thank you very much! Is there any way that SPSS software could be installed on those computers? Thank you!

Comment on Thu Sep 1, 2016, 10:49 am

Hi - Thanks! Yes, the computers in the graduate student study room have now been reimaged to match the full suite of software available on all the public computers, including SPSS. We upgrade/replace roughly 1/3 of the public computers every summer, then try to reimage all of the computers before the start of the semester. Unfortunately this year, we weren't able to finish all the computer reimaging until after the semester started. Hope this wasn't too inconvenient!

Answered by Cheryl Gowing, Associate Dean, Library Facilities, Space Planning & Organizational Development

38 The page to proceed to CaneID login for uSearch does not work on iOS handheld devices like iPad and iPhone. None of the buttons forward to the next page and any roundabout navigation to uSearch login (through Blackboard, on UM app, etc) navigates to the same exlibris page. Thus, articles and web sources can be accessed, but not My Account Loan Records.

Comment on Tue Aug 30, 2016, 10:34 am

Hi. Thank you for reporting this. We have requested this with high priority from the company that produces the software, and they are still investigating it. We apologize for the inconvenience.

Answered by Andrew Darby, Head, Web & Application Development

39 The new usearch engine and interface are much worse than the previous version. I cannot find articles that I could easily find using the previous version, and the log-in keeps returning error messages.

Comment on Wed May 25, 2016, 6:52 am

Arthur - Thank you for letting us know of the difficulty you are having finding the library resources you need. As you may know, we just switched library automation systems last Thursday, resulting in a new search/catalog tool. This is a complex project, requiring the merger of the three 30-yr old catalog, patron, and electronic resource data from each of the three library systems [UML, Law, Medical]. There are some known issues with the migratated data that we are in the process of addressing and configuration changes in the catalog/discovery tool we are still working on with the system vendor. However, it is important for us to learn of any problems, incorrect data, access issues, etc. that users are experiencing with the new system as they may be the result of unknown issues.

If you can email me privately with more details on what you were trying to search and the error messages you received while logging in, we will investigate and resolve these issues as best we can. It would also be helpful to know whether you were searching from the Medical Library search box, Law Library, or from our main library page [library.maimi.edu]. There was an issue yesterday with the Medical Library's login configuration we believe has been addressed.

Again, we regret that you are experiencing any difficulties as a result of our growing pains with the new system. Our subject liaison librarians would also be happy to assist you in identifying resources that meet your needs. You can find a list of the medical library staff here and see the Richter-based subject liaison librarians listed here.

Cheryl Gowing [cgowing@miami.edu ; 305-284-6018]

Answered by Cheryl Gowing, Associate Dean, Library Facilities, Space Planning & Organizational Development

40 It seems the library catalog is currently not accessible on the library website or WorldCat (5/23/16). I hope this is resolved soon. Thanks.

Comment on Mon May 23, 2016, 7:32 pm

Please contact me directly with more details on the problem you are having accessing the library catalog from the library website. As you may know, all libraries at the University recently switched to a new library automation system last Thursday, May 19th, merging the catalog records, patron files, and electronic resource data from the three library systems [UML, Law, Medical] into a single, shared system. From our main library website [library.miami.edu] you still have access to search the 'catalog' from the tabbed search box on the home page. The catalog search is powered by the new system, so the results will look different from the old catalog but the data is the same.

The problems with searches from WorldCat correctly passing through to the new library catalog are known and we are working with OCLC to resolve this as soon as possible.

Again, thank you for taking the time to let us know of any problems you experience with our new system. Library staff across the University are working hard to address all known data migration and access issues, but it's important to hear from our users about any issues they experience, as these may be the result of a previously unknown problem.

Cheryl Gowing [cgowing@miami.edu ; 305-284-6018 ]

Answered by Cheryl Gowing, Associate Dean, Library Facilities, Space Planning & Organizational Development

41 I would like to ask in detail about one of the policies for group study room. It says if the group leaves the room for more than 15 minutes the rooms is up for grabs. But it doesn't specify for how long? for the next hour or the maximum 3 hours that the group had initially reserved it? I would like to know for sure in case my group grabs a room that is empty I would like to know for how long can we stay? Also, can you add it to the policy? Thanks

Comment on Mon Apr 18, 2016, 9:34 am

Hi,
If a group leaves for a break exceeding 15 minutes or does not arrive within 15 minutes of the start of their reservation, then they forfiet the room for the remainder of their reservation. So the room is available until the next group reservation.
I updated the policy to make it a little clearer.
http://library.miami.edu/policies/group-study/

Thanks,
Dennis Smith
Head of Access Services

Answered by Dennis Smith, Head of Access Services

42 Why does the library close so early on weekends?

Comment on Fri Apr 15, 2016, 9:31 pm

Friday and Saturday evenings are historically low use periods in many academic libraries, including Richter. During the school year we close at 10 pm, based on our turnstile gate counts showing decreasing entries into the library on those evenings.

Richter Library is now in our 24/7 hours for finals, but in the future, please remember that you can always go to the 24/7 Study Space in the SAC once Richter Library closes.

Answered by Cheryl Gowing, Associate Dean, Library Facilities, Space Planning & Organizational Development

43 Today is the second day that the Miami Marlins are set up outside the library trying to sell tickets. Not only did they destroy the Orange Bowl, but they also blast music directly outside the library to be heard throughout the halls of Richter. Is this a place of higher learning, or a dance club?

Comment on Tue Mar 22, 2016, 9:36 am

As I'm sure you realize, we have no control over the events that are scheduled on the Green. Unfortuantely, given the Green's central location and the amount of available area for events elsewhere on campus, there's not really another good alternative location for many of the activites that get scheduled for the Green.

If you are studying on the first floor and find activities on the Green are disturbing your concentration, then the best I can suggest is to try to relocate to another area of Richter where the sound from the Green doesn't travel as much - the parking lot side of the 1st Fl, the Stacks Tower, or the Cuban Heritage Pavillion on the 2nd Fl, or Special Collections on the 8th Fl - or try study space on one of the other campus libraries or in the SAC.

I realize that won't help you if you need to use the 1st Fl computers, but we are looking at piloting a modest laptop lending program in the future that could provide more flexibility in study locations during periods when there are noisy activites on the Green. I'll also take a look to see if our budget could accomodate purchase of disposable ear-plugs for these types of situations.

Please feel free to contact me directly if you have any other ideas on how we can address this issue.

Answered by Cheryl Gowing, Associate Dean, Library Facilities, Space Planning & Organizational Development

44 Can you tell the students talking and laughing on the second floor that they need to not be on the second floor?

Comment on Fri Mar 11, 2016, 4:06 pm

We will be happy to address this type of concern. Please contact the Circulation Desk and we will speak with them.
Sincerely,
Dennis Smith
Head of Access Services

Answered by Dennis Smith, Head of Access Services

45 Please have the cleaning staff spray and wipe down the study tables on the 1st and 2nd floor. Too many desks have coffee stains and food smudges.

Comment on Wed Mar 9, 2016, 2:46 pm

Yes, we plan to have a general cleaning of the tables and computers this week, and are reveiwing our policies and procedures for maintaining a sanitary study/work environment within the Libraries.

Answered by Cheryl Gowing, Associate Dean, Library Facilities, Space Planning & Organizational Development

46 I don't understand why the library decided to make adjustments to the 2nd floor of richter during spring break library hours. Everyone knows the 2nd floor is supposed to be silent for students who need to study, especially for those that have exams the following week. You could have scheduled maintenance or whatever during after hours.

Comment on Wed Mar 9, 2016, 2:44 pm

We regret the unavoidable noise associated with removing the empty shelving on the 2nd Fl, but we chose to do this work during Spring Break because of the relatively low numbers of students present in the Library during this week and the ability to accomodate quiet study elsewhere in the Library and on campus. We need to complete this work this week in order to add additional tables and chairs to provide more quiet study seating as we move into the end of the semester when the Library becomes even more crowded. Unfortunately, we do not have the budget required to pay overtime to have the work completed outside of the Library's normal operating hours.

There are a number of alternative spaces that can be used this week for quiet study:

The Reading Rooms in Special Collections on the 8th Fl and in the Cuban Heritage Pavillion on the 2nd Fl are open from 9am - 4 pm and provide very quiet study space.
The Stacks Tower are typically not occupied during Spring Break and are limited to quiet study.
Most group study rooms on the 1st and 2nd floors are also open and could be used for quiet study during this week if not otherwise reserved.
The Law, Music, and Architecture libraries all have ample quiet study space during this week

If you need assistance locating a quiet space to study, please don't hesitate to speak to Library staff at the Information and/or Circulation Desks.

Answered by Cheryl Gowing, Associate Dean, Library Facilities, Space Planning & Organizational Development

47 Many of the desks on the second floor are filthy and certainly require more then just a dusting to be suitable and hygienic for student use.

Comment on Wed Mar 2, 2016, 5:10 pm

We will be doing a thorough cleaning of work surfaces and computers during Spring Break, but more importantly, we are reviewing our options for improving the cleanliness and general environment of our public spaces. We will be working with our Student Government Library Liaisons to revise our policies and procedures on food & drink, noise, computer & room use, and putting measures into place to better ensure a clean and sanitary environment for all.

Answered by Cheryl Gowing, Associate Dean, Library Facilities, Space Planning & Organizational Development

48 I am looking for an article that was published in 2001 in Educational Psychology. The title is Emergent Writing: The impact of structured interaction. The authors are Nixon, J. and Topping, K.J.

Comment on Mon Feb 29, 2016, 11:34 am

Although we don't have access to that ejournal for the year of the article you need, we can still get a copy for you via our Interlibrary Loan Service.

When you do a search in ArticlesPlus and get a "Citation Only" result, that generally means we don't have access to that ejournal for the specific date of the article. If you click on the article title or the "Citation Online" link, you'll get a page more information about the article and a "Request" link. The Request link will take you directly to our Interlibrary Loan [ILL] service. Once you log into the ILL site, your article information should be pre-populated into an ILL request form. If you need help placing an ILL request, please don't hesitate to contact the folks in the ILL Department at : 305-284-6102

Answered by Cheryl Gowing, Associate Dean, Library Facilities, Space Planning & Organizational Development

49 ANTS! All over the desktop computers. Consider cleaning, or enforcing the no food/drink policy. I am aware there are a lot of biology majors at the school, however, I'd rather not examine the allopatric speciation of the Camponotus floridanus.

Comment on Sat Feb 27, 2016, 3:34 pm

We've reported this to Facilities, who will be coming in to address the bug issue early tomorrow [Tuesday] morning before opening. We are also working on procedures & staffing to wipe down the computers at least once a week, while we look at our options for improving the environment [noise, sanitation, space utilization, etc.] of our public spaces.

Answered by Cheryl Gowing, Associate Dean, Library Facilities, Space Planning & Organizational Development

50 http://www.bustle.com/articles/96420-14-habits-of-highly-annoying-library-patrons-because-no-one-wants-to-be-that-person Please focus on # 1 and 8, however, all could be applicable. The first floor of the library is incredibly loud. Moreover, people sit in front of desktops with their laptops. Why? Who knows?

Comment on Wed Feb 24, 2016, 10:47 am

Thanks for the link! Yes, many of these habits are problems we experience in Richter. Unfortunately, some of your fellow students seem to have no problem being "that person" and make using the library difficult for everyone around them. If you feel comfortable doing so, we would encourage all students to speak directly to those around them who are disturbing their use of the library, however, we understand that it's often uncomfortable to do so. You should always feel free to report issues to a library staff member, either by speaking to someone working at a service desk, or sending a text/chat/email via our Ask-a-Librarian service.
Please provide enough information that we can clearly identify where the problem is occuring and address it.

We do recognize the many issues challenging students' enjoyment and use of our public spaces, including: persistent noise, travelling/disappearing chairs, insufficient seating for general studying, cleaniness of computers and worksurfaces, and trying to reserve computer spaces for those needing to use them.

We are engaged in active discussion within the library about how to tackle each of these issues and will be reaching out to Student Government for their input. Please feel free to contact me directly if you'd like to participate in these discussions [cgowing@miami.edu ; 305-284-6018]

Answered by Cheryl Gowing, Associate Dean, Library Facilities, Space Planning & Organizational Development

51 Please set the temperature higher because this is so cold inside library

Comment on Mon Feb 22, 2016, 9:29 pm

If you can let us know where in Richter you find it especially cold, we'll be happy to test the space to see if the HVAC system is out of balance in that area. It can be a challenge to maintain an even temperature throughout the building, given the wide variation in ceiling heights and mix of collection and user spaces.

You'll find that all academic libraries are kept at a temperature that's colder than most homes or office spaces, as colder temperatures and low humidity are required to ensure the long-term preservation of library materials. The University's standard for public spaces is 74 degress, so while we do our best to keep the library at a reasonably comfortable temperature, we do understand that many people will still find the Library to be cold.

If you are planning on spending long periods of time in Richter, it might be advisable to plan to bring a sweater, etc. - as do many of the library staff!

Answered by Cheryl Gowing, Associate Dean, Library Facilities, Space Planning & Organizational Development

52 please post several signs in the stairwell right out side of the second floor saying, "Cell phone use and talking prohibited." Everytime the door opens I hear a frat boy on the phone. Those doors have no sound proof either.

Comment on Mon Feb 15, 2016, 5:19 pm

Cell phone use and talking *is* permissible in the stairwell, so it's possible there will be a few moments of sound bleed' when the door opens, similar to voices/sounds eminating from the restrooms. If you find that someone talking in the stairwell is so loud that they can be heard with the doors shut, please feel free to report the problem via our "Ask a Librarian" service, if you are uncomfortable directly asking the person to be quieter. We can certainly look at signage to remind folks to keep their voices down while in the stairwell to not disturb those studying quietly on the 2nd Floor. I'll discuss the sound-proofing of the stairwell doors with University Facilties, but that may be longer-term solution.

Answered by Cheryl Gowing, Associate Dean, Library Facilities, Space Planning & Organizational Development

53 2 computers aren't working on the second floor of Richter. (And the chair I sat in was broken) Please fix these computers now. It is within our budget. There is no excuse for this.

Comment on Mon Feb 15, 2016, 5:16 pm

Hi- I just checked the computers on the 2nd fl and all are working. I found one computer that had the power cord unplugged, but after plugging it back in, it worked fine. I'll leave a message for facilities to check the chairs in the morning and remove any that are broken.

Thanks for letting us know there was a problem.

Answered by Cheryl Gowing, Associate Dean, Library Facilities, Space Planning & Organizational Development

54 There are two books that I cannot find in the library stacks and nobody is willing to help me. I already tried to request them, but they are still missing. One of the man at the library's front desk told me there was nothing he could do. Who can help me find them? I think we deserve to have the resources available to us.

Comment on Tue Feb 2, 2016, 2:38 pm

Please contact me directly with the information on the books and I'll investigate [dennis.smith@miami.edu ; 305-248-6466]. It may be that the books are truly missing and/or unavailable for some reason. I would suggest if you need them immediately, you request them via Interlibrary Loan [https://triton.library.miami.edu/ ; 305-248-6102] and we can try to borrow them from another library for you.

Dennis Smith
Head of Access Services

Answered by Dennis Smith, Head of Access Services

55 Dear Library, Please have the magazines back on the first floor. Go to Borders or any book store in an airport and you will see the busiest place is the magazine section! If you can bring back those magazines back the first floor, more students and staff will visit the library. Just a suggestion. Thank you for all your good work!

Comment on Sat Jan 30, 2016, 6:02 pm

Hi- The popular magazine rack, newspaper and paperback racks were temporarily moved next to the Dauer Tower stairs to make room for the special presentation and book signing by UM Trustee Arva Moore Parks on Jan. 14th. We are in the process of having these moved back to their normal locations. FYI- The full current print journal collection, along with earlier issues of the titles in the popular magazine rack, is housed on the 2nd Fl between the microforms and Stacks elevators.

Thanks for bringing this to our attention!!

Answered by Cheryl Gowing, Associate Dean, Library Facilities, Space Planning & Organizational Development

56 The WiFi continously cuts in an out in the stacks, I have been to floors 5, 6, and 7 and have had the same problem on all 3 floors. I was working on an important assignment and had to move my chair into the row if books next to where the wireless signal is being emitted. These problms have persisted for this entire past week and is posing a large problem to the ability to efficiently study.

Comment on Fri Jan 15, 2016, 11:32 am

We have contacted UMIT regarding the ongoing issues, sharing the information that you provided. Thank you. UMIT ideally needs to know the library floor you are on, which you shared, and the approximate location [e.g., 6th Fl Stacks carrels facing Unger], so if you can provide that information it may help resolve the problem quickly. You are welcome to email the location of the problem in the Stacks to me [ldeeds@miami.edu] and I'll add that info to the service request. The logic behind the added details is that it aids in potentially locating a bad router or identifying other potential root causes.

To report problems with your wireless connection from anywhere on campus:

contact the UMIT Service Desk at (305) 284-6565 [option 8] or email: itsupportcenter@miami.edu
open a service ticket with UMIT at http://uservice.miami.edu
post on Twitter using hashtag #SecureCanes and include a description of the area where you are experiencing wifi issues.

If you experience further issues with the wireless service in any of the UM Libraries, please let library staff know - including exactly where you are experiencing the problem - and we'll open a ticket w/ UMIT. Thank you, again.

Answered by Leland Deeds, Head of Systems & Information Systems Librarian

57 Disappointed that you closed the 1st floor reading room today for a reception tonight Once upon a time, a university and its library was about academics, reading, study and research. Today, all that seems to take a back seat to self publicity. Very disappointed, as most of the folks at the circulation desk know that my second home is in the Walker Reading Room.

Comment on Thu Jan 14, 2016, 1:59 pm

We are delighted that you consider the Walker Reading Room your second home and very sorry that you were taken by surprise by the temporary closure. This was an exceptional event that the Libraries hosted celebrating the opening of the UM 90^th anniversary exhibit in the area immediately adjacent to the Walker Reading Room. Although we provided two-days advance notice via announcements in the exhibit and reading room areas, we indeed failed to provide web announcements. We promise to provide a broader array of announcements in the future.

Answered by Charles Eckman, Dean and University Librarian

58 WiFi Connectivity in certain portions of the stacks are terrible, I had to move several desks over to get a better connection as I was continuously kicked off of SecureCanes several times while sitting in the area I was in.

Comment on Mon Jan 11, 2016, 5:43 pm

I have opened a service request with UMIT to check and fix any wifi connectivity issues in Richter Stacks. UMIT ideally needs to know the library floor you are on and the approximate location [e.g., 6th Fl Stacks carrels facing Unger], so if you can provide that inforamtion it may help resolve the problem quickly. You are welcome to email the location of the problem in the Stacks to me [cgowing@miami.edu] and I'll add that info to the service request.

To report problems with your wireless connection from anywhere on campus:

contact the UMIT Service Desk at (305) 284-6565 [option 8] or email: itsupportcenter@miami.edu
open a service ticket with UMIT at http://uservice.miami.edu
post on Twitter using hashtag #SecureCanes and include a description of the area where you are experiencing wifi issues.

If you experience further issues w/ wifi in any of the UM Libraries, please let library staff know - including exactly where you are experiencing the problem - and we'll open a ticket w/ UMIT.

Answered by Cheryl Gowing, Associate Dean, Library Facilities, Space Planning & Organizational Development

59 I am new student at UM and I need to request certain books for extended period of time and I need to know the procedure of it.

Comment on Tue Jan 5, 2016, 5:09 pm

Hi - To place a request for library materials simply search the catalog, then click on the "Request" button once you'd identified what you need. You'll be asked to login with your CaneID username and password, then fill out a brief form for where you'd like to pick up the materials. You'll receive an email once the materials have been retrieved and put on the Hold Shelf at your requested pickup location. If the item you want is checked out, you will go on a 'waiting list' for the item and receive an email when it becomes available. In the latter case, if you need an item immediately, please contact our ILL [Interlibrary Loan] Dept. and they can try to borrow it for you from another library.

If you have problems placing a request from the catalog, simply stop by the Circulation Desk and staff can assist you.

Answered by Cheryl Gowing, Associate Dean, Library Facilities, Space Planning & Organizational Development

60 Some students decide to sit in front of a computer even though they are using a laptop and refuse to move when asked. They are taking up a limited resource and not even using it. Please address this.

Comment on Mon Dec 7, 2015, 9:24 pm

If a student sitting at a public computer station, but not using the computer, does not respond to a civil request to relocate and free up the computer, please alert one of the Library staff at the Info or Circulation Desk and they will intervene on your behalf.

Answered by Cheryl Gowing, Associate Dean, Library Facilities, Space Planning & Organizational Development

61 Is there anything that can be done about students talking or studying in groups in the stacks? It is very distracting.

Comment on Sat Dec 5, 2015, 2:39 pm

Thanks for letting us know about this problem. We've alerted the security guards that patrol during the evenings to remind students in the stacks that the 2nd Floor and Stacks are Quiet Zones and do not allow for any group studying. We are also putting out additional "Quiet Zone" signs on the stack floors.

As a reminder, if you are studying in a Quiet Zone and find that others in the area are disturbing the quiet, you can contact library staff by using our Chat/Ask a Librarian service [http://library.miami.edu/ask-a-librarian/ ] or Text a Librarian [305-809-7770]. They will alert the Circulation Supervisor and/or Security Guard, who will then address the matter. You can also call the Circ Supervisor directly at 305-284-4811.

Answered by Cheryl Gowing, Associate Dean, Library Facilities, Space Planning & Organizational Development

62 Today is supposed to be a quiet zone on the first floor and many people are talking (quite loudly i might add). Please address this as soon as you can. I don't mean to bother but finals are coming up.

Comment on Thu Dec 3, 2015, 11:34 am

Hi-   Due to the increased assignment of group projects and need for group studying, the first floor is *not* a Quiet Zone, even during finals and the Libraries' 24/7 hours.    Many years ago we did have all of Richter Library become a quiet zone during finals, but for at least the past 5-6 years, we have continued to allow conversation on the first floor during finals.   The 2nd Floor and the Richter Stacks are Quiet Zones throughout the year; in addition, the Cuban Heritage Collection Reading Room on the 2nd Fl and the Special Collections & Archives Reading Room on the 8th Fl are both available Monday through Friday during business hours for quiet study.

We have noticed a markedly increased noise level on the first floor and will be reminding students to be considerate of others around them and keep their voices at a low level, but we will not be prohibting conversation.

As a reminder, if you are studying in a Quiet Zone and find that others in the area are disturbing the quiet, you can contact library staff by using our Chat/Ask a Librarian service [http://library.miami.edu/ask-a-librarian/ ] or Text a Librarian [305-809-7770].   They will alert the Circulation Supervisor and/or Security Guard, who will then address the matter.

Best of luck on your finals and completing your semester projects!

Answered by Cheryl Gowing, Associate Dean, Library Facilities, Space Planning & Organizational Development

63 There should be a function that enables a patron to cancel an ILL request on the website if they no longer need it and the book hasn't yet arrived.

Comment on Tue Dec 1, 2015, 11:40 am

Dear Patron,
You do have the ability to cancel a request through Illiad. If you log into the system to review your requests, select the Transaction Number (TN) and there will be an option at the top of the request to cancel. However, the option to cancel will disappear if another library has already shipped the book to UM. I checked your account and the request I saw was shipped on 11/23/15. If you don't need the book, please email ILL.library@miami.edu and they will return the book immediately for you once received.

Answered by Dennis Smith, Head of Access Services

64 why are we being kicked out of the 2nd floor of the library at 9:25 p.m.? You close at 10 p.m. This is unacceptable.

Comment on Sat Nov 7, 2015, 9:26 pm

Dear Patron,
We clear the stacks and second floor one hour prior to closing. We usually leave the second floor for last but have to clear the floor to prepare for closing. It is particuarily hard to get everyone out of the building by closing which is why we do a tiered closing of the floors. We are reviewing this process and will consider extending the time for the second floor if we are able to clear the building properly. Thanks for your input.
Dennis Smith
Head of Access Services

Answered by Dennis Smith, Head of Access Services

65 The wifi in the Faculty Reading Room has been only about 60% reliable all week.

Comment on Wed Nov 4, 2015, 11:46 am

Thank you for letting us know about an issue with the wifi reception in the Faculty Reading Room. I've reported this to UMIT and opened a service ticket with them. I'll provide an update, as soon as I hear back from them.

Answered by Cheryl Gowing, Associate Dean, Library Facilities, Space Planning & Organizational Development

66 1. I think that there needs to be some control of people who are sitting at desktop computers, with their laptops open. It's difficult to find a computer sometimes and when people are sitting in front of screen, when they're not using it. 2. People need to stop saving computers for their friends. If people are not in front of the computer, they then do not have claim to it and their friends can't "save" the space because it's unfair for students who are present and trying to use the machine.

Comment on Mon Nov 2, 2015, 4:29 pm

If you find someone sitting at a desktop computer station, but not using the computer, you should feel free to ask that person to move. Similarly, no one can 'save' spaces at computer station for others. If you are uncomfortable speaking directly to the person involved, please feel free to alert the library staff at the first floor Info Desk or Circulation Desk, and they will address the issue with the patron.

You may also report any issue to library staff by using our Chat/Ask a Librarian service [http://library.miami.edu/ask-a-librarian/ ] or Text a Librarian [305-809-7770]. They will alert the Circulation Supervisor and/or Security Guard, who will then address the matter.

Answered by Cheryl Gowing, Associate Dean, Library Facilities, Space Planning & Organizational Development

67 Fix the goddamn wifi in the stacks. Pathetic.

Comment on Mon Nov 2, 2015, 11:43 am

We're sorry to hear that you are having problems with the wifi connectivity in the Richter Stacks. As you many know, the central UM Information Technology Division (UMIT) has been working this Fall to improve wireless reception across campus and recently installed additional receptors in Richter Library. Clearly something is not working as intended, but we need more information from you to address the problem. UMIT will need to know the library floor you are on and the approximate location [e.g., 6th Fl Stacks carrels facing Unger].

The LIbraries have no direct control over the wireless network in any library building, however if you'd like to contact the Libraries' Systems Support Department at 305-284-4056, we'd be happy to pass along the details of the problem to UMIT.

To report problems with your wireless connection from anywhere on campus,"

contact the UMIT Service Desk at (305) 284-6565 [option 8] or email: itsupportcenter@miami.edu
open a service ticket with UMIT at http://uservice.miami.edu
post on Twitter using hashtag #SecureCanes and include a description of the area where you are experiencing wifi issues.

UPDATE: I have reported a general problem with poor wifi reception in the Richter Stacks and opened a service ticket with UMIT. I'll provide additional updates as I hear back from UMIT.

Answered by Cheryl Gowing, Associate Dean, Library Facilities, Space Planning & Organizational Development

68 How do you allow people to play card games and be extremely loud on the first floor? I understand that normal conversation while working is acceptable, but this is a library, not the student union.

Comment on Wed Oct 21, 2015, 1:08 pm

If you encounter this type of activity, please stop by the Circulation or Reference Desk. We can ask the parties to reduce their discussion levels.
Dennis Smith
Head of Access SErvices

Answered by Dennis Smith, Head of Access Services

69 The library closes at 10 PM on Saturdays. I left my desk for few minutes to go to the restroom and when I came back a custodian was TOUCHING my stuff on the desk without any prior notice or permission. This is a total invasion of privacy and I cannot believe UM lets people do that. Please fix this.

Comment on Sat Oct 17, 2015, 9:40 pm

I can understand your discomfort, however, patrons should not leave their belonging alone at any time. If you are studying alone, please take your belongings with you. I know this can be bothersome if you are just going to the restroom, but there have been thefts and any items left unattended are to be collected by employees.
Sincerely,
Dennis Smith
Head of Access Services

Answered by Dennis Smith, Head of Access Services

70 The stacks 9th floor is supposed to be quiet, but every time I have come up here this week there are people talking at full volume.

Comment on Tue Oct 13, 2015, 3:53 pm

If you encounter this again, please contact the Circulation Desk. We can send someone to discuss this with the offending person.
Dennis Smith
Head of Access Services

Answered by Dennis Smith, Head of Access Services

71 Everyone who knows me knows how much I love the library, so please take this comment in the positive spirit it was meant. I do not understand why you are closing Friday, 9 October at 6PM. Yes, I understand it's fall break. But given that the library is open till 9PM on Thursday and then 10PM on Saturday, is the thought everyone leaves campus for just one day? I suspect not. Those of us who will study on Thursday and then on Saturday will be here on Friday - with nowhere to go. The library is the heart of this campus, a place for study, research, work and congregation. Any time it is closed the campus is poorer for it.

Comment on Thu Oct 8, 2015, 7:34 pm

Hi D. - We do appreciate your taking the time to share your thoughts about our schedule during breaks and understand that folks who provide comments are trying to help us make the library a better place for everyone.

When we annually review the Richter Library schedule to determine our hours of operation during break periods, we take into consideration previous use patterns, library staffing budgets, and whether other study options are available. Since the 2013 opening of the Student Activity Center and the 24/7 Kornspan Study Lounge within the SAC, we have closed early on the two Fall Break days in October as the Kornspan Lounge provides study space for when Richter Library is closed.

We have confirmed that the Kornspan Lounge will be open for 24/7 during this Fall Break and should be able to accomodate students this evening who are looking for a quiet place to study.   The Law Library is also open until 10 p.m. this Friday and would be another option for you.

We will certainly revist our Fall Break hours when we consider the scehdule for the 2016-2017 academic year.    Please don't hesitate to contact me directly if you'd like to discuss the library hours further.

Answered by Cheryl Gowing, Associate Dean, Library Facilities, Space Planning & Organizational Development

72 Numerous posts have been made in regards to the limited seating in Richter and not much has been done. The library is quite packed on a normal afternoon and this will clearly lead to problems during future midterm and final weeks, especially on the second floor which is a desired quite space. Desks can surely be rearranged to accommodate more desks, and there furthermore there abundant space near the Goizeta Pavillion to accommodate more seating as well as other locations.

Comment on Tue Oct 6, 2015, 2:45 pm

You are absolutely right. We are keenly aware of the need for more seating in Richter Library and understand your frustrations. Thank you for taking the time to share them with us.

The UM Libraries are working actively with campus partners to plan a renovation of the first floor of Richter. The need for additional seating is one of the important factors we are considering. You can learn more about the project here: http://library.miami.edu/learningcommons/

The UM Libraries offer many different study spaces, including the Music Library. Seats are often available at that location, so we encourage you to explore all of our library spaces:
http://library.miami.edu/musiclib/

Answered by Kelly Miller, Associate Dean, Learning & Research Services

73 An incorrect series is traced in this record (WMO vs. WHO):http://catalog.library.miami.edu/search/?searchtype=o&searcharg=912532797

Comment on Fri Sep 25, 2015, 4:25 pm

Thank you for reporting the error. We have corrected the typo in our local catalog and the OCLC cataloging record that other libraries may download for use in their catalogs.

Answered by Glen Wiley, Associate Dean, Access and Discovery Services

74 The people at the front desk are very rude if you forget your cane card. This was the first time I have done it and the lady was very rude. We all make mistakes.

Comment on Tue Sep 22, 2015, 3:39 pm

I regret that you had that experience. We require everyone to have their CaneID for safety reasons and have to monitor those without one. Our hope is that the experience is not negative as we work on this process. Please let me know if you encounter any more issues.
Dennis Smith
Head of Access Services
dennis.smith@miami.edu

Answered by Dennis Smith, Head of Access Services

75 Hi! Do you have a (Dell) laptop charger I can borrow? I'll be dropping by the library later this evening. Thank you! Carlie

Comment on Tue Sep 22, 2015, 10:16 am

Hey Carlie,
Unfortunately, we do not have Dell Chargers. There are a variety of Dell chargers and it isn't possible to have enough of a selection for students.
Thanks for asking,
Dennis Smith

Answered by Dennis Smith, Head of Access Services

76 Hey, the library staff should look into putting more than two printers on the second floor. Especially since one is usually out of order, a line forms for the other one.

Comment on Mon Sep 21, 2015, 3:31 pm

Hello

Thank you for bringing the printer issue on the second floor of the Richter Library to our attention. We are now in the process of evaluating the usage of these printers to determine the current needs for the second floor.

If you continue to experience any further issues with printers on the second floor, please to not hesitate to contact me directly at jjbuckard@miami.edu or (305) 284-4056.

Thank you again,

John Buckard
Richter Library Systems

Answered by John Buckard, Systems Support Manager

77 if you are going to charge students to print, please make sure all printers have enough ink. i waste so much UPirint dollars reprinting documents because there is not enough ink in the printers.

Comment on Sat Sep 12, 2015, 2:00 pm

I am sorry to hear about the issues you are experiencing with printing. We currently rely on patrons to notify the first floor Reference Desk of any issues with printing on the first and second floor of the library. If a print is not successful but the money has been charged, employees at the Reference desk have the ability to reprint the job at no cost.

If you continue to experience issues with this, please contact me directly at jjbuckard@miami.edu or (305) 284-4056.

Thank you

John Buckard
Richter Library Systems

Answered by John Buckard, Systems Support Manager

78 Does anyone actually answer the emails at richter.circulation@miami.edu? I've asked a question which should have a very quick answer but never received a reply despite several emails sent over several days.

Comment on Wed Aug 26, 2015, 12:26 pm

This email address is monitored daily so not sure why you have not received a reply. I'm not able to confirm your address but please check your spam folder in case our response was sent there. If you did not receive a response, feel free to contact me (dennis.smith@miami.edu) and I will work to resolve your issue.

Answered by Dennis Smith, Head of Access Services

79 Hi! Kindly fix the three computers in the Graduate study area on the 2nd floor so that we may print. Thank you.

Comment on Tue Jun 23, 2015, 5:53 pm

Hello Natalie

Thank you for reaching out to us with this printing problem in the Graduate Study Room. We should have the correct printers installed and working by Friday. If you have any further concerns of questions please feel free to contact me anytime at 305 284-4056 or jjbuckard@miami.edu.

Thanks again

John

Answered by John Buckard, Systems Support Manager

80 Hello, there have been cases of numerous students/visitors/parents gathering outside the library to sit and smoke there right in front of the non-smoking signs. Since the university is supposedly a "smoke-free" area, I wish there would be greater measures taken to reprimand or curtail this kind of behavior as it only seems to be getting worse and worse lately every time I go to the library. Is there anything you can do to minimize the amount of people smoking? Those of us with asthma and other respiratory problems would like to be able to sit outside without inhaling huge wafts of second-hand smoke.

Comment on Thu May 28, 2015, 9:44 am

Hi,
Unfortunately, we do not always notice when this happens. If you do notice this type of activity, please stop by the circulation desk so we can address the situation immediately.
Thanks,
Dennis Smith
Head of Access Services

Answered by Dennis Smith, Head of Access Services

81 I contacted you all last week about staff talking loudly on the second floor. Since it kept happening I moved to the highest level of the stacks hoping that though they are dreary and depressing that they would be quiet. Unfortunately a member of custodial staff still chose to talk loudly on her phone up here. I kindly asked her to move to the hallway and now her phone notifications keep going off. I am simply trying to find a quiet place to study and it seems that it is utterly impossible here. I understand it takes a simple comment to ask people to keep their voices down, which I do, but it gets old having to do it multiple times in one hour. Please, please please talk to staff about obeying the rules as well as most students do. Thank you

Comment on Wed May 27, 2015, 11:46 am

Dear Aaron - Our apologies for the disruption to your quiet enjoyment of the library. We have contacted the University contractor responsible for cleaning services within the Libraries and have received assurances that this will be immediately addressed with all cleaning staff assigned to Richter Library. I have also sent an email to all library staff reminding them to observe the quiet zones on the 2nd and Stack floors. We do have work around the collections on these floors taking place over the summer, but will make every effort to minimize the noise and disturbance to students studying in these areas.

Please don't hesitate to contact me directly [305-284-6018] or the Circulation Supervisor on duty [305-248-4811] if you find the quiet zones are not maintained, whether by library staff or fellow library patrons.

Answered by Cheryl Gowing, Associate Dean, Library Facilities, Space Planning & Organizational Development

82 Your library staff should know that the 2nd floor is quiet. Then why are they the loudest ones on the floor? Every time a staff member uses the elevator or walks through the second floor library, they are talking/laughing at a loud tone, not a whisper like the rest of the library. They should be respectful.

Comment on Thu May 21, 2015, 1:20 pm

Dear Sandy - We apologize for the noise on the 2nd floor caused by library employees. We have recently received several complaints on this issue. I have sent a reminder to all library staff to observe the quiet zones on the 2nd and Stack floors. We do have work around the collections on these floors taking place over the summer, but will make every effort to minimize the noise and disturbance to students studying in these areas.

Please don't hesitate to contact me directly [305-284-6018] or the Circulation Supervisor on duty [305-248-4811] if you find the quiet zones are not maintained, whether by library or cleaning staff or fellow library patrons.

Answered by Cheryl Gowing, Associate Dean, Library Facilities, Space Planning & Organizational Development

83 The name of the author of GenealogÃa - Laje is Zilia L. Laje, not Lilia.

Comment on Thu May 21, 2015, 12:58 am

Dear Zilia,

We apologize for the typo in your name. We have corrected the misspelling and we have fully cataloged the book, Genealogía, in the Cuban Heritage Collection.

Answered by ,

84 It is absolutely ridiculous that you are doing construction in the mezzanine during finals week. Students have preferences about where they most optimally study and the idea that the timetable of disassembling bookshelves takes priority over this is no less than depravity. Fix this.

Comment on Tue May 5, 2015, 10:32 am

We understand that quiet study spaces within Richter Library are at a premium throughout the year, but especially during finals.   We have done what we can to make additional space available: opening our 3rd Fl Conference Room and Information Literacy Labs during evenings and weekends, adding bean bag chairs that can be moved to create seating where space is available, and most recently termporarily adding surplus tables and chairs to space freed up on the Mezzanine as part of renovation preparations.

The Libraries have been given funding to accelerate the timetable to renovate the Brockway Hall Storage Facility [located behind Starbucks] and the Mezzanine floor to serve as the new home for Special Collections and University Archives.   Construction must begin in June, therefore the collections in these spaces must be relocated and the shelving dismantled by June, hence the need to conduct this critical preparation now.

Prior to the start of the renovation prepartion, the Mezzanine had only a few individual tables and seats and was primarily a collection space, rather than student study space.    After moving the government documents microfiche cabinets to the 2nd Fl and beginnng to dismantle and reinstall shelving on stack floors to relocate collections, we realized it would be possible to create additional student study space in the newly opened areas that could be available to students at night and weekends when the renovation work was not taking place.   Because of the construction timetable, we cannot halt work in the Mezzanine during the day, but thought access to additional seating would be appreciated, even though the space could only be quaranteed to be accessble and quiet during the evenings and weekends, much like the 3rd Fl spaces we open up during finals.

We regret the inconvenience you've experienced trying to study on the Mezzanine floor during the day.   Another quiet study option during the day that is often overlooked are the two special collections reading rooms: the Cuban Heritage Collections Reading Room on the 2nd Fl and the Special Colllections & University Archives Reading Room on the 8th Fl. Both are open Monday-Friday from 9am-4pm, with CHC open 9am-7pm on Wednesday. Students are welcome to study quietly in these spaces, space permitting.

Answered by Cheryl Gowing, Associate Dean, Library Facilities, Space Planning & Organizational Development

85 I was just wondering if you can explain why the law library is restricted during finals period if there is so much study space to accommodate all the law students and undergrads. I understand that you guys are looking in to the problem that there is not enough study space in Richter, but until you find a solution, why can't the desks at law be opened up. Obviously law students have priority in their own library, but at the same time why should so many desks sit empty why people fight for seats in Richter? I know opening up the Richter 3rd floor has extra space, but even that does not fix the problem.

Comment on Sun May 3, 2015, 12:03 pm

Hi - We don't have any control over the access policies for the Law Library, but we will be happy to speak with the Law librarians about this issue. I'll post an update as soon as I hear back from them.

Answered by Cheryl Gowing, Associate Dean, Library Facilities, Space Planning & Organizational Development

86 Hi, is there any way that the gum could be scraped from under the desks? I have long legs, and they always manage to hit the gum.

Comment on Sat May 2, 2015, 8:01 pm

â€‹Thank you for your feedback. We perform regular cleanings through the year, and the next one is scheduled for May.

We apologize for the inconvenience.

Answered by Gisele Rocha, Manager | Creative

87 There are not enough places to study in Richter, on top of the fact that students leave their belongings on desks for hours at a time although they are not using the desk. Furthermore the Law Library which is open to undergrads all year is closed to them during finals, although very few law students actually use the library, and there are large numbers of open seats that could easily accommodate everyone

Comment on Thu Apr 30, 2015, 9:54 am

Thank you for sharing your frustrations with seating with us! We understand that there are not enough seats available in Richter Library, especially during finals, and we are actively working on improving the situation for you. Thank you for your patience with us as we seek to make your experience better.

Answered by Kelly Miller, Associate Dean, Learning & Research Services

88 How do you go about reporting a group thats breaking study room rules.*Reservations are limited to one reservation per group per day, for a maximum of 3 hours per day. seminars, or organizational meetings*. Study room 225 is clearly being used by the same group for over 12 hours.

Comment on Sun Apr 26, 2015, 5:30 pm

Dear Anonymous - If you believe an individual or group is abusing the group study room reservation system, please report this to the Circulation Desk Supervisor [richter.circulation@miami.edu ; 305-284-4811].

We will be updating the room reservation software at the end of the semester which will allow us to require CaneID authentication for room reservations. The latter will allow the system to enforce the limit of a 3 hours per day reservation, something the system currently does not do.

In the interim, I am reviewing all current reservations. Where it is obvious that someone/a group is reserving a room beyond the 3 hour limit, their excess reservations will be cancelled and they will be notified via email.

Anyone who persists in abusing the room reservation systems will be blocked from further reservations and reported to the Dean of Students.

Answered by Cheryl Gowing, Associate Dean, Library Facilities, Space Planning & Organizational Development

89 Please **** stop doing work on the 6th floor of the stacks. It's loud.

Comment on Thu Apr 16, 2015, 12:52 pm

We regret the annoyance and inconvenience of the noise while we install critically needed additional shelving on our stacks. Please know that we are doing all we can to minimize the disturbance and plan to cease the installation of the project during the upcoming reading days and finals.

As posted in a recent library news article, the Libraries have begun a major project to renovate Brockway Hall and the Mezzanine to serve as the new home for our Special Collections and University Archives to improve access and service to our research materials. This has entailed the relocation of collections currently housed in those spaces. Additionally, overcrowding on some stacks floors has also necessitated the installation of additional shelving along the periphery of the stack tower on the 6th and 9th floors.

Again, we apologize for the inconvenience. We’re working hard to complete this major portion of the renovation by the Fall.

Answered by Cheryl Gowing, Associate Dean, Library Facilities, Space Planning & Organizational Development

90 I would recommend that on the the web browsers home page a link to blackboard is available as that is a very popular site for many students and typing it out every time could be avoided with a simple link to blackboard.

Comment on Thu Apr 16, 2015, 11:01 am

Hi Kyle,
There is a link to blackboard on the library website's home page (which should be the default home page for browsers in the Richter Library). Look for the orange "Accounts+" button in the upper right--hover there and Blackboard is in the left column of the resulting "mega menu."

Answered by Andrew Darby, Head, Web & Application Development

91 the windows along the back of the 2nd floor (next to the grad study area) are covered in cobwebs outside and inside, the roof is literally falling apart and is covered in cobwebs and dirt - yesterday a bug literally fell on top of me. It would be wonderful if facilities could please fix the interior part at least. You all made a great area to study, it would be a shame for it to remain neglected. Thank you

Comment on Tue Apr 7, 2015, 5:53 pm

Thank you for your feedback. We have addressed these items with the cleaning crew, and will continue to monitor it. Regarding the roof, please note the university is looking to replace several rooftops throughout the entire campus, so you should see changes soon. Thanks again for your cooperation.

Answered by Gisele Rocha, Manager | Creative

92 consistently the men's 2nd floor bathroom smells like a homeless rhinoceros on a hot miami afternoon. this needs to be addressed

Comment on Mon Apr 6, 2015, 12:58 pm

Thank you for your feedback. We shared your concerns with the cleaning company, and will continue monitor all restrooms.

Answered by Gisele Rocha, Manager | Creative

93 Hi, I come in and out of the main library multiple times a day every day. I'm constantly getting slammed by the metal detector door on my way out. I never have any books on me so it is very likely it is my laptop causing this. I've seen this happen dozens of times to other people. It is never book related. Can you please adjust the detectors so it actually picks up on books? It's very embarrassing to have the loud alarm sound, be locked in and have to explain myself to the librarian at the front desk.

Comment on Wed Mar 18, 2015, 4:38 pm

We're so sorry you are getting caught in the exit gate sensors. We have worked with the security gate vendor to try to optimally calibrate the sensitivity of the sensors, but it's a challenge to provide the security we need for library items while allowing for the increase in devices and other non-library items that might set off the gate. We've often noticed that sometimes books purchased from the UM or other book store may still have a store security tag with residual signal that sets off our gate sensor - and as you've experienced, there do seem to be some laptops that set off the alarm, although this doesn't happen with all/most devices.

We will be looking at the exit and entrance setup as part of our considerations for a renovation of the 1st Fl in 2016. This will include a review of the security gate technology and how we can improve the exit process for all.

In the interim, if you know that your laptop seems to trigger the alarm and gate, please ask a Circ Desk staff member to hold your laptop and hand it to you after you pass through the exit gate.

Answered by Cheryl Gowing, Associate Dean, Library Facilities, Space Planning & Organizational Development

94 Hi, We have suffered from a stinky women's bathroom for years!!!!! It is disgusting!!!!! And now we even have to put up with roaches there. Can you please do something about both issues. This is supposed to be the MAIN library of a top world class university, right????? Thank you.

Comment on Mon Mar 2, 2015, 4:04 pm

We appreciate your feedback, and have addressed your concerns with the Facilities Department. We will monitor it closely to ensure these issues are rectified.

Thank you,

Gisele Rocha
Building Facilities Coordinator
University of Miami Libraries

Answered by Gisele Rocha, Manager | Creative

95 Hi John, thanks for the response to the Jan 12, 2015 comment. I appreciate you looking into the computers and the problematic audio jacks. FYI I'm responding here because the phone number you left was short by 1 number. I just wanted to confirm that as of 10 minutes ago, I plugged two different (working) headphone sets (one with an in-line mic and one without) into each of the three computers and tried to listen to sound from different websites on different browsers. In each case the sound was produced from some low quality speaker inside the PC itself. From my limited tech background, I think at some deeper level the jack is mapped as an "input" rather than as an "output." Thanks again!

Comment on Mon Jan 26, 2015, 1:54 pm

Hello

I do apologize for your continued trouble with the headphone jacks in the Graduate Study Room. We have replaced the three computers with computers that have working jacks while we troubleshoot and fix the issue. We have confirmed on all three that they are working correctly.

If you should have should have any others issues with the computers in the Graduate Study Room, please feel free to contact me anytime at (305) 284-4056 or jjbuckard@miami.edu.

Answered by John Buckard, Systems Support Manager

96 I think the library should do more to enforce the smoking ban in front of the building. I love studying here but I hate getting a pack's worth of second-hand smoke every time I step outside.

Comment on Mon Jan 26, 2015, 1:04 pm

Thank you for sharing your concern with us, and we are so glad that you love studying in the Libraries! We agree that we could do more to support the smoke-free campus policy, so we are currently consulting with the office that manages the policy to see what actions we can take, including posting additional signs: http://www.miami.edu/sa/index.php/smoke_free/support_the_initiative/

Answered by Kelly Miller, Associate Dean, Learning & Research Services

97 Some of the chairs at the computers on the first floor recline so much that it is really impossibly to type while resting one's back against the chair's back. Most people just sit up without resting their backs, not an ergonomically correct position to use while sitting at the computer. Would it be possible to buy chairs that do not recline, or can be set to recline or not recline according to the person's preference?

Comment on Wed Jan 21, 2015, 11:48 am

Dear Giovanna,

Thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts about the chairs in the Information Commons. We definitely want to ensure that you have safe, comfortable seating. We are beginning to plan for updates and improvements to the first floor, so your message is well-timed. Would you be interested in giving us feedback on possible new chairs, once we have some samples to try out? Please let me know if you have additional ideas for improvements to the first floor. You can reach me at: kelly.miller@miami.edu. Thanks again, and looking forward to hearing from you!

Answered by Kelly Miller, Associate Dean, Learning & Research Services

98 The graduate student computers lack the ability to play audio into headphones. This makes finding videos for my class lectures difficult.

Comment on Mon Jan 12, 2015, 1:27 pm

Hello

Thank you for letting us knw about the audio issue you are experiancing in the library. We found one of the three computers in the Graduate Study Room to have a malfuctioning audio jack. We are now working to replace the computer so we can repair this one.

If you have any other question, please feel free contact me directly at 305 284-456.

Answered by John Buckard, Systems Support Manager

99 Happy New year 2015.

Comment on Mon Jan 5, 2015, 5:49 pm

Happy New Year to you, too!

Answered by Andrew Darby, Head, Web & Application Development

100 As a faculty member, I would find it very helpful if there were a direct link to export to Endnote (as there is for Refworks) on the record page. Thank you,

Comment on Thu Dec 18, 2014, 3:11 pm

Dear Professor Callender,

Unfortunately, EndNote does not allow for direct export from the Library Catalog to an EndNote library. You can, however, follow a multistep process to "save records for export" and then "export saved records" to EndNote.

We anticipate that when UM Libraries adopts a new "discovery" layer (within the next year or so) this process will be simplified.

Using our Articles+ search, the default search on the library website, you can export saved records directly.

Please contact me if you would like to discuss this further, at lbaker@miami.edu.

Answered by Lisa Baker, Head, Richter Library Learning & Research Services

101 lately I have noticed that a lot of students are sitting at a computer station (1st floor Richter) but they're not actually using the computer that is in front of them, instead they are using their own laptops to do their work. One, they are taking one station from other students and two, why not encourage students to let others use the computer they're not using? I have never ever seen or experienced such an awful situation like the library system at UM. There are students tutoring at computer stations, female students planning bachelorette parties and tow or three students taking naps...and this critique does not take into consideration the fact it is super loud. Please do something about it.

Comment on Tue Dec 9, 2014, 1:27 pm

Thank you for your feedback. Regarding the level of noise, as our users know the first floor of Richter is always our louder floor, allowing group work and interaction. Noise levels are usually successfully student enforced. During the exam period increased use of the building brings with it an increased volume. If other library users are not responsive to your requests regarding noise always feel free to speak to a Library staff member. The same is true should a computer be needed but not in use by the desk's occupant. You can reach Library staff at one of the service points on the first floor, or even by Text.

Answered by Leland Deeds, Head of Systems & Information Systems Librarian

102 Good afternoon, as you are probably already aware, it is getting to the point in the semester where the library is really crowded. Unfortunately, that means sometimes there are absolutely no seats on the second floor or in the stacks. Is there any way that additional seating or quiet zone space could be provided during these busy times? It would be really helpful to a lot of students.

Comment on Mon Dec 8, 2014, 2:06 pm

Thank you for your comment. In the interest of responding to the current high demand, the Richter Library will open up the 3rd Floor Conference Room and the 3rd floor Lit Lab for additional quiet study space. These spaces will be open Monday through Friday, 6pm to 5am, and over the weekends during this 24/7 period. Please see earlier response (Drew Wofford) regarding our longer-term plans to address space needs during 24/7 periods.

Answered by Charles Eckman, Dean and University Librarian

103 Something needs to be done about overcrowding of the library during the end of the semester. Those of us who use the library almost daily throughout the academic year get blocked out by casual users who show up only during the exam period. The grad rooms of empty for much of the semester, but when the last two weeks arrive, they are unavailable. There is no waiting list, there is no reservation system, there is no place for quiet study, as the rest of the library is even worse. Perhaps there needs to be grad rooms created in the other libraries; perhaps more space needs to be allocated in Richter. All I know if how frustrating it is to support and use and appreciate the facilities of the library all semester long, only to be blocked out at the end. This is simply not right.

Comment on Sun Dec 7, 2014, 3:23 pm

Thank you for your comment. In the interest of responding to the current high demand, the Richter Library will open up the 3rd Floor Conference Room and the 3rd floor Lit Lab for additional quiet study space. These spaces will be open Monday through Friday, 6pm to 5am, and over the weekends during this 24/7 period.

The Richter Library is committed to the 24/7 opening during finals. And we have received requests to open Richter 24/7 during midterms. UM Libraries Administration is establishing a student advisory group with both graduate and undergraduate student representation to make recommendations regarding near and long-term library planning, including how to increase individual and group study spaces within Richter and address the extraordinary space demands we are seeing during 24/7 periods.

Answered by Charles Eckman, Dean and University Librarian

104 Good Morning, I am looking for a paper published in Economic Geology 1999: "Hydrothermal processes related to movement of fluid from plastic into brittle rock in the magmatic-epithermal environment" by R.O. Fournier. But our online source for this journal only available since 2000. Do you know there is any other way I can get the access to this?

Comment on Mon Dec 1, 2014, 11:35 am

Richter Library subscribes to this journal in print (go to --
http://catalog.library.miami.edu/record=b1951509~S11.)

Currently the 1999 editions are in our special storage location. In order to retrieve the 1999 edition, you will need to place an Inter-library loan (ILL). Here is the link to ILL:
https://triton.library.miami.edu/

InterLibrary Loan (http://library.miami.edu/sp/subjects/staff.php?letter=By%20Department#113) should be able to provide you with your desired article within a short period of time.

Answered by Doris Jui, Director, Information Resource Center / Business, Economics

105 I have been working at my station for over 40 minutes now WITH HEADPHONES and another library user has been on the phone this entire time VERY LOUDLY. Complaints have been made to no avail. It is very distracting. We are across from the MAC computer area. Will someone come and say something pleasE?

Comment on Thu Oct 9, 2014, 2:49 pm

Thank you, "Anonymous," for contacting us. As most Richter Library users are aware, we have a "zoned" noise model in the building. Please contact a library service desk if users in a Quiet Zone area are not respecting the Noise Policy, or if a user in a Collaborative Study area has become disruptive. If you aren't sure which parts of Richter fall in to what category, take a look here.

Answered by Leland Deeds, Head of Systems & Information Systems Librarian

106 Hello, I need to use the Journal Citation Report database for my research but the link provided on the library website doesn't work. I have tried to log in via Web of Knowledge but it still didn't work (I could use Web of Knowledge but not Journal Citation Report). Could you please help me solve the problem? I really need to use that database for my study. Thank you very much.

Comment on Mon Oct 6, 2014, 10:45 pm

Thank you for notifying us about the dead link. Journal Citation Reports recently migrated to a new platform, resulting in a new URL. Our Database List has now been updated to reflect the correct URL for access. If you ever encounter access problems with electronic resources, please notify the information desk. They can help troubleshoot the problem, and submit a formal problem ticket as necessary to resolve the problem.

Answered by Daniel E. Roose, Acquisitions Librarian

107 Hello. I am suggesting that library staff should be monitoring the second floor "quiet area" because there are too many people have out loud conversations about non school related things and it's distracting for those who are actually trying to study and not talking about what they are going to do this weekend. Thanks

Comment on Mon Sep 22, 2014, 4:49 pm

Unfortunately we don't have enough staff to permanently assign someone to monitoring all of the quiet floors, but we will remind all library staff to be sure to address any noise issues they encounter while on the 2nd Fl or Stack Tower. We will also remind the evening security guard to speak with anyone not observing the Quiet Zones.

In many cases the most effective enforcers of library quiet policies are your fellow students. If you find folks in Quiet Zones who are not observing the noise restriction, please feel to remind them to respect the Quiet Zone and move their conversation elsewhere. If you are not comfortable speaking directly to a noisy student or they ignore you, please notify library staff at the 1st Fl Information Services or Circulation Desks, or use our Chat or Ask-A-Librarian link so you don't have to leave/lose your seat.

Answered by Cheryl Gowing, Associate Dean, Library Facilities, Space Planning & Organizational Development

108 The reference desk person left a message that the desk was closed but there is no paper in a few of the printers. Why don't they refill it before they disappear? There is never anyone there when we need them.

Comment on Mon Sep 22, 2014, 3:40 pm

To Whom It May Concern,

I apologize for the inconvenience. Sometimes we will close the desk if the reference department has a meeting which everyone must attend. And due to the high usuage of the printers the paper does run. In the future the system will be that someone will check periodically while we are meeting.

Regards,

Anna Stoute
Head of Education and Outreach
University of Miami Libraries
Email:astoute@miami.edu

Answered by Anna Stoute, Director of Learning and Literacy Assessment Initiative

109 Hello, While I commend Richter for being eco-friendly, I have noticed that the janitorial staff empties items from the trash can as well as recycling bins in the same bin. I'm unsure if it is a lack of communication or the recycling bins are there for "show" but it would be nice to see the papers and bottles I placed in there not being thrown away week after week. Thank you!

Comment on Mon Sep 15, 2014, 8:29 am

Thank you,Gabe, for bringing this to our attention. We have notified our cleaning contractor of the problem and will update this post with details of how this will be prevented in the future.

Update from the cleaning contractor: "I have had discussions with GCA regarding this matter and comingling of trash and recycle should not be occurring. They are providing training to re-emphasize this to the staff."

Answered by Roca Beiro, Facilities Manager

110 Good afternoon: Possible to restore the magazine section in the Richter Library? I walked over today and there were no magazines – none…! Thanks. Cindy McKenzie Program Manager Center for Ethics & Public Service University of Miami School of Law 305-284-3424 direct cmckenzie@law.miami.edu

Comment on Thu Sep 4, 2014, 1:13 pm

Hi Cindy - As you noticed, we rearranged the placement of some of the collections in the 1st Fl Reading Room in order to accomodate the interactive portion of the traveling national exhibit, "Places & Spaces," co-hosted by the Libraries and the School of Architecture.

New magazine and newspaper display shelving will be placed in open areas in the Reading Room. Until we receive the new display racks, current newspapers can be found on the open shelves just around the corner from the puzzle table. The latest issues of the popular magazines typically displayed in the Reading Room can be found with the older issues of those titles on the Journal shelving, just behind the DVDs and audiobooks. We had hoped to have everything in place for the start of the semester, but the display racks were back-ordered. We apologize for the inconvenience, but assure you the popular magazine display will return!

Answered by Cheryl Gowing, Associate Dean, Library Facilities, Space Planning & Organizational Development

111 It would be helpful if you guys installed Visual Studio on the computers in the library

Comment on Fri Aug 29, 2014, 1:54 pm

Hello
I would like to thank you for reaching out with this suggestion. We are always excited to hear ways on improving our labs. I will be working with Central IT to determine feasibility of installing Visual Studios on the Richter Library Information Commons Lab. In considering this decision, we need to keep in mind that the library computer lab image is tied to a campus-wide computer image.

Would you please contact us directly at 305-284-4056 or jjbuckard@gmail.com to discuss your needs with Visual Studio further?

Thank you again
John Buckard

Answered by John Buckard, Systems Support Manager

112 Every 200 keystrokes on the computer I was using was missed. It would be nice to have new working keyboards. It would boost efficiency by about 10%

Comment on Sun Aug 24, 2014, 1:39 pm

Hello Peter

I do appologize for the difficulties you are having with the keyboard. Can you please let me know which workstation you are using so I can have it replaced ASAP. Feel free to contact me anytime at jjbuckard@miami.edu or 305 284-4056.
Thank you,
John Buckard

Answered by John Buckard, Systems Support Manager

113 Hello, I'm wondering if the library can keep ordering the online access to the Methods in Cell Biology journal. It is a very useful journal about up-to-date biomedical techniques and contains a lot informative lab protocols, which is great for research. But the lack of online access to it making it hard to get such important research information. Thank you.

Comment on Tue Aug 19, 2014, 1:40 pm

Hi, We are looking into this and will get back to you personally.

Answered by Elizabeth (Lisa) Fish, Associate Dean, Collection Strategies

114 What's going to happen with the blank wall on the first floor by the jigsaw puzzle table, where the old bookshelf used to be, which is now where the New Books used to be?

Comment on Fri Aug 15, 2014, 10:35 am

Within the next week we will be filling that large blank space with an interactive display as part of the campus-wide Places & Spaces data visualization exhibit. The exhibit will be up for the fall semester. In the longer term, we are considering this area for a "visualization wall." Thanks for paying attention and stay tuned!

Answered by Lisa Baker, Head, Richter Library Learning & Research Services

115 Just a few suggestions from your friendly neighborhood Spiderman: The fliers in the men's rest room are a great idea. I can't help but look at it when I .. haha. I think it will look a lot more classy if you can buy those wall mounted acrylic sign holders. Also, I think it will be awesome if you could get those popular beat headphones that all the kids love. I can see how all the kids will love it and will be the talking point. Maybe the company might be willing to donate a few too! Keep up the great job! I am watching. :)

Comment on Tue Aug 12, 2014, 7:54 pm

Dear Spiderman,

Thank you! We very much appreciate the positive feedback. The Hurrican has been informing our readers on the "go" for many years now. Our team has been working hard to keep it fresh and entertaining. In the coming weeks, look for theHurrican Extra editions, to bring you more about the Libraries and the innovative services, exciting programs, and unique collections you'll find within. Seems like the perfect occasion for us to spruce up our delivery presentation.

I discussed your headphones suggestion with Steve Roberts, our Access Services Manager. He said the ones we currently have available for students to borrow have proven to be quite popular (that's also a service we've been experimenting with over the course of several years, to aid with multimedia as well as noise cancellation). But, if you would happen to have any "spidey" influence on Dr. Dre for a couple dozen Beats, we should definitely talk.

Thanks again for looking out and taking time from your busy schedule to drop us a note!

Answered by Jose M. Cabrera, Director of Creative

116 Whomever handles the software upgrades and licensing in the main campus library has allowed the MATLAB license to expire on every single main campus library computer, making it impossible to use the software. It's unprofessional and completely inexcusable to allow your software to become unusable by students and faculty in the library. Someone here should be responsible for maintaining software licensing. This is ridiculous.

Comment on Wed Jul 2, 2014, 11:13 am

Hello

I do apologize for the inconvenience this has caused. I contacted UMIT regarding this issue and they have informed me that it has been fixed. Furthermore, we are in communication with UMIT to work on procedures to ensure this does not happen again.

If you have any question or further concerns, please feel free to contact me directly.

Answered by John Buckard, Systems Support Manager

117 Hello, I'm trying to access articles via Science Direct. I have successfully downloaded articles before, but now I only have an option to purchase them. There is a window that says I have guest access - what does that mean? Did U-Miami discontinue accessing some databases?

Comment on Mon Jun 30, 2014, 7:16 pm

ScienceDirect is the platform where the publisher Elsevier hosts its e-books and journals. There's a lot we have access to on there and a lot we don't. Your problem was probably that we don't have subscriptions to the particular journals you were attempting to access. If so, Interlibrary Loan can help. But to make sure, please contact me at billjac@miami.edu with the details of what articles you tried to access and I'll take a closer look.

Answered by William Jacobs, Learning & Research Services Librarian

118 Are there any plans to update the Mac workstations in the library. None of them are upgraded to the new iWorks, which makes it impossible to print Pages 5.0 documents I email to myself, and incredibly inconvenient to share docs with people at school.

Comment on Sat Jun 28, 2014, 7:01 am

Hello and thank you for contacting us regarding this issue. I can definitely understand your frustration with backwards compatibility and iWorks. We will be upgrading the iMacs in the Mac Alcove and Media Lab within the next two weeks. The iMacs in the Information Commons will be upgraded before the start of the Fall Semester.

If you have any other concerns, please feel free to contact me directly.

Answered by John Buckard, Systems Support Manager

119 Good afternoon Do you maybe have other online audiobook selection as the overdrive selections does not include the books I am interested in listening to please

Comment on Tue Jun 24, 2014, 1:11 pm

OverDrive is our only online audiobook service, but we have a great many audiobooks on CD.

We are also happy to take requests. In OverDrive you can click on the "Find More" button to search their complete title list. Once you find an audiobook (or ebook) you'd like, click on "Recommend" and we'll be sent an alert.

Answered by William Jacobs, Learning & Research Services Librarian

120 Are there Miami herald archives

Comment on Sun Jun 15, 2014, 7:48 am

Hello,

Yes we do have the Miami Heald archives. If you search the library catalog by Title you will find more information about the collection.
Should you need further assistance please do not hesitate to contact the reference desk. Email: richterreference@miami.edu and Phone #: 305-284-4722.

Answered by Anna Stoute, Director of Learning and Literacy Assessment Initiative

121 I just want to say that I cancelled my Netflix account because it has become obsolete in light of how many great DVDs the library now has. Bravo and thanks!

Comment on Tue Jun 10, 2014, 8:49 am

Thank you! We're glad you are enjoying the collection. Remember, you can also suggest titles for us to add.

Answered by Terri Robar, Communication, Media, Geography, and Maps Librarian

122 Went to return two dvds and couldn't get the attention of the staff person sitting at the counter of the Circulation Desk because she was wearing headphones and listening to music. Finally I waved the dvds down in front of her face. She never made eye contact, "Do you have your card?" she asked looking at the screen. "I'm returning them." I said. "Ok." she said, scanning them for return. "Is that all?" I asked. "Mhhm." she replied. Please remove or retrain this person. You have such a beautiful library and an outstanding collection it's a shame the last thing a patron experiences is this kind of limp-interest service. Saturday, 130pm May 24th.

Comment on Sat May 24, 2014, 2:13 pm

Dear Mr. Latham,

I'm sorry that happened, it's certainly not the type of service we aim to provide. I'll speak with the staff member and get it corrected.

Regards,
Steve Roberts

Answered by Steven C. Roberts, Head of Access Services

123 what tool are you using to create this application?

Comment on Tue May 13, 2014, 10:14 am

Hi Pamela,

If you're talking about the website, it's using WordPress. If you are talking about this Comments page, it's using SubjectsPlus (www.subjectsplus.com).

Thanks for your interest.

Answered by Andrew Darby, Head, Web & Application Development

124 hi, the 7th floor stacks bathroom is pretty gross...

Comment on Thu May 1, 2014, 3:15 pm

We apologize for the deterioration in the cleaning service. We do bring on extra crews and add cleaning cycles during our 24/7 period. Unfortunately, there were apparently two people out sick this week and the substitute was not familiar with our cleaning protocols. We have reported the issue to UNICCO, the company that contracts for the University's cleaning services. In the future, it's helpful if you can give a date/time when you found facilities in a less than acceptable condition, as this will help us determine what crew should have been responsible.

Answered by Roca Beiro, Facilities Manager

125 Hi, I wanted to know if we could implement a system in the stacks that allows us to see what cubicles are taken by some sort of flag system. It's kind of tiresome walking up and down the aisles when they're filled. Can we have a system, like a mailbox essentially, where you put up a red flag when you occupy a cubicle and put it down as you leave. This way we could tell what's available without having to walk across the stacks. It would save a lot of time, and it wouldn't be too expensive to implement.

Comment on Tue Apr 29, 2014, 8:56 pm

That's a really interesting idea. I'll pass that along to our Administrative Leadership Group for consideration over the summer. To some extent, you'd still have to walk along the row of cubicles in order to see the flags and the success of such a program would depend on folks remembering to put the flags both up and down, but it's certainly something to consider. Stay tuned...

Keep those innovative ideas for improvements to the Libraries coming!

Answered by Cheryl Gowing, Associate Dean, Library Facilities, Space Planning & Organizational Development

126 Hi, I like that people can talk and study together and such on the first floor. There are, however, some people who abuse that privilege and are downright rude and loud (consistently and for more than half an hour). What can I do about this? Can I ask a staff member to talk to people who are being excessively loud? (and by excessively, I mean they drown out my headphones even when my music is cranked up to its highest setting to block them out). Any input is so appreciated.

Comment on Mon Apr 28, 2014, 11:15 pm

Thanks for the heads-up. Yes, we allow some collaboration and quiet conversation on the first floor but it should not be to the point where you are being disturbed with headphones on. I'll make sure our supervisors are monitoring the area. You can also use our chat service to report an issue right away and we'll take care of it.

http://library.miami.edu/ask-a-librarian/

Answered by Steven C. Roberts, Head of Access Services

127 Is there anything that can be done about the wifi connection in the stacks? It goes in and out so frequently it's hard to get work done. (Currently asking via 4G on my phone because the wifi won't work to let me access the website)

Comment on Mon Apr 14, 2014, 7:21 pm

We have reported the matter to Central IT who manages the campus wifi service. They are constantly monitoring the system and are aware that Richter Library requires a greater capacity than some other areas on campus. If you can provide the locations [e.g. 7th fl stacks facing the Green; 2nd Fl desks viewing parking lot] where you are getting dropped, weak, or no signals, that will greatly help IT troubleshoot the issue.

Answered by Cheryl Gowing, Associate Dean, Library Facilities, Space Planning & Organizational Development

128 Hi! I was wondering when the library was going to do the Edible books contest? I look forward to it every year. Thanks!

Comment on Fri Apr 11, 2014, 3:29 pm

Hi Sarah - I'm sorry but due to other projects and events happening around the same time, we weren't able to hold the Libraries' Edible Books Festival this year.   It's an event many of us enjoy participating in and/or marveling at the creativity, imagination, and culinary skills within the UM communit, so we will be sure to start planning early for 2015 to ensure that we don't let another year go by without an Edible Books event.

Edible Books festivals are traditionally held on April 1, so look for next year's festival on Wednesday, April 1, 2015. I hope we'll see a submission [or two? or three?] by you next year.

In the interim, you might enjoy this 'edible book' collection on Flickr, or visit "Books2Eat" - the home page of the Internationl Edible Books Festival.

Answered by Cheryl Gowing, Associate Dean, Library Facilities, Space Planning & Organizational Development

129 Hello, I was wondering if there could be more signs placed around reminding students not to have cell phone conversations in the library. I know there are signs when entering the second floor but today alone I've witnessed 4 people having phone conversations. I've had to go up to them and ask them to move their conversation but they almost always act as though they didn't know. I feel as though if there were more signs that might help the problem a small amount. Thank you!

Comment on Wed Mar 26, 2014, 1:25 pm

Hi- Cell phone usage is permitted on the first floor, but the 2nd Fl and the Stack Tower are considered to be Quiet Zones. We'll take a look at where we place the signs and see if we can't increase awareness of our quiet policies - especially as we enter the latter part of the semester when everyone's work is intensified. Thanks for bringing this to our attention.

Answered by Cheryl Gowing, Associate Dean, Library Facilities, Space Planning & Organizational Development

130 Hello, I realize that the point I am about to argue it moot, but I feel that it needs to be said. As we are all aware, tomorrow class resumes. Most students are back and ready to resume classes tomorrow. Judging by the amount of students in the library, a lot of people are ready to get back to work today, myself included. It is mind boggling to me that the library is only open until 6pm today and the SAC study lounge is closed period. I am currently in the library with a group of fellow classmates trying to prepare for our biochemistry test which takes place on Thursday. Where are we to go now to study? Nothing is open. Thanks alot.

Comment on Sun Mar 16, 2014, 5:43 pm

Hi Curtis,

Thanks for your feedback. We'll consider your point for future semesters - and at minimum coordinate with the SAC lounge so there's somewhere for students to study on the last nite of break,

Answered by Steven C. Roberts, Head of Access Services

131 keep up the great work

Comment on Sat Mar 15, 2014, 1:52 pm

Glad your library experience is a good one - thanks for the compliment!

Answered by Steven C. Roberts, Head of Access Services

132 Why is all the software on the computers out of date? The SPSS license on the older computers needs to be updated, you can use one of the new computers, but why should we have to? Why not update the license so that we can use any of the computers available to students? Also Java is a huge problem. It is always asking to be updated. Why can't Internet Explorer be taken off the computers if we shouldn't use it? The fact that it is on the desktop makes people assume that you can use it. Maybe IT should add Chrome so that students can use that instead. The library's IT needs to step up.

Comment on Thu Mar 6, 2014, 3:32 pm

Hello

Thank you for reaching out to us with these issues and I do apologize it has taken a couple of days for us to respond while we were looking into them. We understand how frustrating computer problems can be for the end user.

The most recent image for all of the computers, new and old, have the licensed copy of SPSS 20 and 21. We do need both of these because of different students in different programs require both. However, we have gone through and found a handful of computers that do not have the current image and SPSS 19. These computers will be reimaged by the start of school Monday, March 17, 2014.

I agree, Internet Explorer is not the most reliable or stable browser. However, it cannot be removed from the operating system because it is required for certain applications. We have removed it from the desktop and quick launch of all the computers, new and old. The computers with the old image still have the Internet Explorer shortcut on the desktop. These computers will be reimaged by the start of school Monday, March 17, 2014.

The issue with Java will also be resolved by the start of school Monday, March 17, 2014.

Unfortunately have we left off the Chrome browser of the most recent image. We will install it on all of the computers by the start of school Monday, March 17, 2014.

I would like to thank you again for reaching out to us with these issues. If you have an further questions or concerns you may contact me directly.

John Buckard
(305) 284-4056
jjbuckard@miami.edu

Answered by John Buckard, Systems Support Manager

133 RSMAS library is too loud to concentrate, and nothing is done about it! Please help my reminding people that they should carry on conversations anywhere else besides the library.

Comment on Tue Feb 11, 2014, 12:45 pm

Thank you for your comment. We try to accommodate the needs of all library users and we realize that noise levels in some parts of the library can become problematic at times. Many of our students need to work together for projects or group study, but we do mitigate the disturbance to others when necessary. Please do not hesitate to call or come to the desk to report concerns and issues, noise disturbances included.

Also, the study carrels along the perimeter of the library offer an alternative area of study away from the library entrance, desk, and group study tables.

Answered by Elizabeth (Lisa) Fish, Associate Dean, Collection Strategies

134 Almost each time I come into the library in the middle of the day, people use the front tables to socialize and talk. I don't mind, but it's at a level that is really distracting and makes it hard to get my work done! This is the only place on campus where silence is golden, please tell people to respect that! Thank you!

Comment on Tue Feb 11, 2014, 12:43 pm

Thanks for your comment - you're right we allow some group work and a bit of socializing on the 1st floor, but it shouldn't be at the point where it's distracting. I'll have the library supervisors keep an eye on the situation.

Answered by Steven C. Roberts, Head of Access Services

135 I think it would be very wise to keep triple hole punchers beside every printing station. It'll make things a lot easier rather than walking all the way to the front to punch a few pages.

Comment on Fri Jan 24, 2014, 1:37 pm

Hi Charlie,

Good suggestion. We'll see what we can round up as far as hole punchers and put them around. At this point, I put an additional puncher on the 2nd floor and one on the 1st on the table by the windows. Let us know if this is sufficient.

Answered by Steven C. Roberts, Head of Access Services

136 Why are we advertising a "booty twerking" event on the screen of every computer on the ground floor of the library? "Booty twerking" is literally a stripper move. I understand that UM students are free to express themselves in any way they like, but I don't understand how anyone could have thought it was acceptable for the library to promote such blatant objectification and debasement of women. I am deeply disappointed.

Comment on Fri Jan 24, 2014, 11:30 am

Dear Josh,

Thanks for your comment and especially for your concern regarding inappropriate communications on the Libraries’ workstation screens in the Information Commons. The Libraries role is to support the University’s constituent's initiatives, whether that be in a form that’s academic or extracurricular, or simply to provide a sense of community and safe discourse.

The ad to which you are referring specifically promotes an audition session for Kaos, the University’s co-ed hip-hop dance team. They perform several times a year at UM events as well as for outside charitable organizations. Established nearly twenty years ago, the highly competitive club is well known for incorporating a genre-bending assortment of dance styles, while staying true to the group's own hip-hop roots.

We are careful to monitor the content of these ads before posting them, and maintain that in the context of this organization's goals, the language is not inappropriate. “Twerking” and “popping” translate to gender-neutral dance moves related to hip-hop and funk styles of music. We believe it would be unfair of us to censor language chosen by this group, but not others, to represent their organized activities that are permitted by the University to take place on campus.

We appreciate that you took the time to inform us of language you found questionable, and hope you understand our reasons for retaining the ad as it is currently displayed. Please don’t hesitate to contact us again.

Answered by Jose M. Cabrera, Director of Creative

137 Grad Carrel is ALWAYS blue/ full and pre-booked. There must be a secret to booking that I was not informed at orientation. Leave me no choice but to take up an entire group room with big screen monitor!

Comment on Mon Jan 20, 2014, 8:49 pm

Hello there,

We have reverted back to the first come/first-served procedure for the grad study carrels at this time,so please come to the front desk and pick up a swipe card. There was signage in the room and on the website, but I apologize if it caused confusion. Currently we are studying which method works best, so feel free to add your comments regarding that.

Answered by Steven C. Roberts, Head of Access Services

138 Thank you doing an excellent job in 2013. I think I have learned a lot more from the books I borrowed from the library than some of my classes. I am really grateful to the interlibrary loan and book purchase staff. I have got most of the books requested and that too in a couple of weeks. Please do let them know. If I ever get a Nobel prize, I will mention the univ of miami library for sure haha

Comment on Fri Jan 17, 2014, 8:34 am

Dear Anoop,

I'm glad we were able to assist you this year, and please feel free to rely on us during the rest of your UM career. (And good luck on that Nobel Prize!)

Answered by Steven C. Roberts, Head of Access Services

139 Sometimes the chat window says Richter Chat is available, but no one answers my message. I think the librarian on duty should try to provide more accurate statuses.

Comment on Thu Jan 16, 2014, 10:50 pm

Hello,

We apologize for the inconvenience. However, when it becomes very busy at the Information Desk sometimes we forget to change the chat status to "Away".

Regards,
Anna Stoute
Head of Education and Outreach

Answered by Anna Stoute, Director of Learning and Literacy Assessment Initiative

140 I'm not sure how many of the patrons understand the concept of what a library is.some of these patrons believe they have a right to carry on loud and lengthy conversations on their cellphones and between each other. Maybe the first floor is intended to be a social club, and I'm the one who is mistaken, because I don't see anything being done about it.

Comment on Sat Jan 11, 2014, 2:06 pm

Greetings -
The library's first floor allows for quiet conversation and group collaboration, but not to the point where it disturbs others. If there is ever a noise disturbance in your area, feel free to call/come to the desk, or text us and we'll take care of it. Thanks

Answered by Steven C. Roberts, Head of Access Services

141 Could you please consider installing Visual Studio in a group of computers in the library please?

Comment on Tue Jan 7, 2014, 8:28 pm

Hello

Thank you for contacting us with regarding of installing Visual Studio on the information commons computers. We are currently investigating feasibility of adding this software to our image. We will post back here with an update.

Should you have any further question or concerns, you may contact me directly at 786 554-3266. My name is John Buckard.

Answered by John Buckard, Systems Support Manager

142 Just wanted to say happy new year 2014.

Comment on Sun Jan 5, 2014, 11:28 am

Happy New Year to you, too!

Answered by Andrew Darby, Head, Web & Application Development

143 The ants are on the desks on the second floor

Comment on Fri Dec 13, 2013, 3:26 pm

We'll dispatch facilities to come have a look. If you can let us know which part of the room that would be helpful.

Answered by Steven C. Roberts, Head of Access Services

144 There are ants everywhere and not enough chairs. I am scared to leave my seat because someone might take it. Please fix it, that is what we pay thousands of dollars for.

Comment on Thu Dec 12, 2013, 5:34 pm

Thanks for the heads-up about the chairs. We have enough chairs for each desk, but often they are used to hold belongings rather than seating - so we'll watch for that.
As far as the ants, can you write directly to our building manager (Roca Beiro - rbeiro@miami.edu) - or me and let me know where specifically you've seen these critters?

Answered by Steven C. Roberts, Head of Access Services

145 The background on the computer is FULL of typos...which is ironic being library computers. On the right gray area is says "shuld" instead of "should. Also, the 10 minute snack ad says Wednesday and Thursday but Dec 10th and 11th which is wrong and very confusing. As a library, you should proofread the things you put on hundreds of computers.

Comment on Thu Dec 12, 2013, 5:27 pm

Thanks for bringing the errors on the Information Commons’ computer screens to our attention. The ads are a new initiative we’re developing to offer UM student groups and organizations free advertising space for their programming and events. The demand has been high and we’ve done our best to meet it, while ironing out workflow and design wrinkles along the way.

Students are responsible for providing their own design, and due to the urgency of when some items are submitted and the proximity to their respective event date, a few typos have clearly snuck by. Moving forward, we’ll be sure to ramp up our spellcheck.

Thanks again for your comment. It’s great to know these are being read!

Answered by Jose M. Cabrera, Director of Creative

146 Isn't the first floor supposed to be completely silent during finals? people are so loud in the back its impossible to study Why was my comment deleted? I believe there is a sign as soon as you walk in that says 24/7 quiet richter is in effect

Comment on Tue Dec 10, 2013, 5:29 pm

The first floor is an area where groups tend to meet and students need to collaborate on their presentations, so a bit more conversation is inherent. That being said, the area in the back we've noticed is getting too loud - so the supervisors and staff will make rounds back there to keep things under control. If you need assistance finding a quiet study spot, please come to the main desk and we'll try and find a space for you on the second floor or in the stacks.

Answered by Steven C. Roberts, Head of Access Services

147 Please sharpen your paper cutter.

Comment on Thu Dec 5, 2013, 3:36 pm

Thanks for writing...We'll look into it for you, pronto.

Answered by Steven C. Roberts, Head of Access Services

148 Online booking for graduate rooms is NOT convenient at all. I wonder who did it and why?! There are a lot of issues: 1. students start to reserve in advance and don't show up after all, yes students are lazy to cancel it and they are your customers. Thus, you have to take it into account. 2. students that finished early don't cancel the time that is left 3. let's say it is 10-20am and I'm trying to reserve a room right now. I can do it ONLY from 11am even if ALL rooms are empty (faced it 4 times, successfully resolved it only today because it is a holiday) 4. if I want to study from 10-20 to 4-20 there is no way i can do it, because i have to book a room from 10 to 4 or wait 40 min and book from 11 to 5 Before on-line system it was so much easier, and I always had a room. Now it is horrible. Why are you resolving problems that don't exist? If you have nothing to do, please identify problems first (ask from line employees, ask students). Also, you can ask professors from business school how to identify problems, they will help you.

Comment on Mon Nov 25, 2013, 11:00 am

We instituted the room reservation system for the Graduate Study room because we had so many students complain that they couldn't get into a room. Studentsrequested we maintain a waiting list and call them when rooms became available. This is the same system that has been used for the 1st & 2nd Fl group study rooms without problems.

When anyone returns their carrel key to the Front Desk, staff cancel any remaining time on their booking. If students do not show up for their booking, staff make every effort to cancel those reservations to free up the time for everyone else.

That said, it's clear that there are certainly a number of people who have found the reservation sytem cumbersome and inconvenient. If this is a service that doesn't meet the majority of graduate student's needs, then we will discontinue it - but we do want to make sure we hear from everyone, as some people are clearly happy with the system.

We will be taking the Graduate Study room reservation system off-line for the remainder of the Fall semester beginning this Friday, Nov. 29th.    We will be surveying the general graduate student population, with specific email invitations to those who have used the system in the past month.    We will review and discuss the survey response with the GSA and make a decision about whether or not to reinstate reservations during the Spring semester.

I do appreciate that you made the effort to let us know this system is not working for you.   We don't want to add to the stress level already experienced by students, so will be happy to reconsider this service.

Feel free to contact me directly if you wish to discuss this further [cgowing@miami.edu ; 305-284-6018 ]

Regards,

Answered by Cheryl Gowing, Associate Dean, Library Facilities, Space Planning & Organizational Development

149 Please consider placing a shredder near the printers.

Comment on Sun Nov 24, 2013, 12:32 pm

That woud be handy, but I think there's a noise consideration regarding shredders in the library. If there's a particular document that must be shredded - the desk staff can take it in the back and shred for you if they have an opportunity

Answered by Steven C. Roberts, Head of Access Services

150 No staplers and hole punchers in second floor. Why not attached them ALL with cords to printers as you have in 1st floor main desk. Is is very inconvenience.

Comment on Sun Nov 24, 2013, 12:30 pm

Hi,
Thanks for your comment. We'll have a hole puncher in place and wired in this week. Our new super blue staplers can't be wired down - but we'll make a point of swinging by the 2nd floor and making sure one is there.

Answered by Steven C. Roberts, Head of Access Services

151 I'm not sure if this a problem exactly, but I thought you might want to know. I tried to log into my mylibrary account and was surprised that, as an alumnus, I could still log in as a student (using my caneid), as well as, as an alumnus. Neither account has any records for me to check (to verify which account is right). I assume that is because I graduated in May 2012 and have not borrowed any material since then.

Comment on Wed Nov 20, 2013, 12:34 am

Hi there,

Thanks for letting us know. You should be in alumni status now. Please send me your info privately to s.roberts2@miami.edu, so I can open the hood and have a look. Thanks

Answered by Steven C. Roberts, Head of Access Services

152 Forcing online booking for graduate rooms is near absurd. Its not that the option is unwelcome, but forcing us to do this even when we are simply walking in to the library is unnecessarily time consuming. we have to go to a computer when we're right there. If anything we should have the option to book electronically or not, although I'm not even sure electronic booking is necessary at all

Comment on Fri Nov 15, 2013, 10:52 am

Hi Rami - We believe that one of the benefits of the reservation system is that it allows graduate students to clearly see the room availability for the day and three days into the future, hopefully preventing someone from making their way to Richter, then finding out that there are no grad study carrels available.

If you do walk into Richter without a prior reservation, we have a computer available at the Circ Desk you can use to book a carrel. The booking process takes just a minute or two - click on the available times you want, enter your name and email, then check out the carrel room key. We ask you to register at the Desk to be considerate of everyone else who might be interested in reserving a carrel. If you simply checked out a carrel key, as under the previous 'no-reservation' system, then no one has any idea when carrels will become available.

As I've noted in other postings, we will be sending out a survey in December to get feedback from everyone who has used the system. I encourage you to complete the survey and provide any suggestions you have for improving the process.

Answered by Cheryl Gowing, Associate Dean, Library Facilities, Space Planning & Organizational Development

153 Would it be possible to install the Free Xcode Software for iPhone app design on some of the Macs? I am interested in learning how to design apps, however as far as I know, there aren't any computers with Xcode compilers anywhere on campus.

Comment on Thu Nov 14, 2013, 11:10 pm

Hello Chris

Thank you for reaching out to us with this issue. Xcode is installed on all of the Macs on the first floor of Richter Library in the Information Commons and Digital Media Lab. To locate the application, type Xcode in the Spotlight Search on the top right of the menu bar.

I do admit it is not in a prominent location and we will address this by placing an icon for Xcode in the dock within the Toolbox. This will take place within the next week.

Please let me know if you experience any further difficulties locating the application and I will be happy to assist.

Thank you Chris

John Buckard
Richter Library Systems
jjbuckard@miami.edu
(305) 284-4056

Answered by John Buckard, Systems Support Manager

154 This new system is terrible, aweful, and very inconvenient. The genius who thought this system of reserving the grad rooms online needs to reevaluate the system. It doesn't work and it creates a big mess upstairs in the lounge when people do not have a room; it does get very noisy and there aren't enough tables to study. THIS SYSTEM SUCKS BIG TIME!

Comment on Mon Nov 11, 2013, 10:19 am

Dear Anonymous - I'm not clear on the relationship between having a reservation system and the noise level in the Grad Study Area, or the availability of open seating in this space.

The Graduate Student area has always been designated as a Quiet Zone. If your fellow graduate students are not being 'good citizens', please feel free to ask them to be quiet and considerate of everyone else trying to study in the area. You are also welcome to use the Ask-a-Librarian, and/or Library Chat & Text [305-809-7770] service to let Richter staff know there is a problem, and we'll send someone up to restore order.

Graduate students with card access to the Grad Study Area have always been able to utilize the open seating and tables on a first-come/first-served basis.   This has not changed under the room reservation system.   If the open areas are becoming crowded, this is likely because more students tend to come to the library to study/research as we get closer to the end of the semester.

Using the room reservation system, we can see that in the first 10 days of use, there were 147 unique users making 339 bookings of varying lengths.   Over 70% of users booked their study carrel on the same day, but on average only 52% of the available hours were booked.   The heaviest usage is during the day from 9am-7pm, but that has always been true. With only 18-20 grad study carrels to service over 5000 graduate students, it is inevitable that study carrels may not be available when it is most convenient.

We think having a room reservation system is the most equitable way to manage access to these rooms, giving students the chance to see carrel availability before heading over to the library and the opportunity to reserve a carrel in advance to fit their schedule.

We are grateful that you took the time to let us know what you think about the new reservation system. I would happy to speak with you to explore any ideas you have for improving the system and especially to have a better idea of why you think the service is inconvenient.   We will also be contacting students who use the system to ask for any feedback they care to share.

Answered by Cheryl Gowing, Associate Dean, Library Facilities, Space Planning & Organizational Development

155 Just want to draw attention on the new policy for grad study carrels. I think that the way it was before was more convenient on the sense that it was fair for everyone. I al just supposing wh. If a student doesn't have Internet connexion at home to make a reservation online; what if I reserve a room for six hours and don't come and don't consel the reservation; is there a way for other students to get to use the room, those whon are on campus znd need it for their study... thank you for taking into consideration this comment.

Comment on Sat Nov 9, 2013, 7:06 am

I'm glad you asked. We are very interested in getting feedback on using room reservations for the graduate study carrels.

The grad study carrels have been a very popular service since we opened up the Graduate Study space a little over a year ago. Under the old system without room reservations, students had to physically come to the library and *hope* that there would be a room open. Since most grad students live off-campus, you can imagine what an iconvenience it was to come to campus only to find out that all of the grad study rooms were checked out. Rooms could only be checked for 6 hours, even if you knew you'd only need it for less time, so library staff had no way of knowing when rooms would be in use. Students were leaving us their names, emails, and cell numbers, asking the library staff to call them when a room became available. This was very difficult to manage and still couldn't guarantee that a room would be available once you got to the library.

Now with the room reservation system, you can reserve a room within a four day window - today, plus three days in advance. This lets most grad students reserve a study space in a schedule that best suits their needs and be assured that a space will be available when they do come into the library.

Even if a student doesn't have internet access where they live, the vast majority of students do have cell phones with internet QR Code for the Graduate Study Room Reservations

QR Code for the Graduate Study Room Reservations

access. If you access the room reservation system from your phone, you'll automatically get a mobile version : http://libcal.miami.edu/booking/gradstudy. If you have a QR code reader on your phone, you can save this QR code to bookmark the site. [What's a QR Code?]

The clear pattern we have been seeing in this first week of use is that the majority of students reserve a grad study carrel on the day of use - either in advance or when they walk up to the Circ Desk.   There are usually 3-5 reservations made for any given future date, so there is usually plenty of time for students to make a reservation.

We agree that it would not be fair for someone to make a reservation, tying up a room for up to 6 hours, then not showing up. We are implementing a policy to cancel any room reservation if the student does not pick up/check out the room key within the first hour of their reservation.   We also think that having a room resevation system will make it easier for students to reserve rooms on a more realistic schedule for themselves.   Under the new system, students can reserve up to 6 hours, but they can also do less time. If students have to leave for a couple of hours to teach a class, run a lab, etc., they can reserve a room for the times they know they will really be able to use the space. This is exactly what appears to be happening.

We will continue to closely monitor the use of the new grad study room reservation system and will be contacting everyone who's used it after the first month to get their feedback.   Please don't hesitate to continue to use our Comments page to let us know if you have any other ideas for improving this, or any other library service. You are also welcome to contact me directly : cgowing@miami.edu or 305-284-6018.

Answered by Cheryl Gowing, Associate Dean, Library Facilities, Space Planning & Organizational Development

156 Hi, Just wanted to inquire about the lack of staplers in the Richter Library...? The only ones I am aware of are downstairs on the first floor (and there is always a waiting line to use the three that are placed there). It would be nice if UM supplied staplers on additional floors (public schools frequently supply this tool without problem).

Comment on Tue Oct 29, 2013, 9:28 am

Hi Nicole,

Thanks for your comment. We had some staplers both on the 1st and 2nd floors near the printers, but I see that they have sprouted legs and hit the road. I will make sure that they are returned and available for use.

Thanks

Answered by Steven C. Roberts, Head of Access Services

157 The person at the media lab, is annoying and could get some king of agressive with some students they dont like, they also talk too much very laugh and mess arround with their friends at the media lab, please take in consideration this comment

Comment on Wed Oct 16, 2013, 10:17 am

I apologize for the inconvenience you have experienced. The Digital Media Lab staff try their best to create a welcoming environment for students and employees to work in. We will take appropriate actions to ensure that this is always the case. Should you have further problems or questions, please do not hesitate to contact me directly. Email:vrodrigu@miami.edu

Answered by Vanessa Rodriguez, Head, Creative Studio

158 Hello, The bathroom on the 6th floor does NOT lock well. It was very uncomfortable for me and the one that was inside when I opened the door from the outside, heard the lock unclick, and opened the door! Please fix this immediately. Thank you very much.

Comment on Thu Oct 10, 2013, 9:04 pm

Thank you for alerting us. This has been reported as a priority.

Answered by Andrew Darby, Head, Web & Application Development

159 I found that there is no single Chinese book in our library. Although there are about over 800 Chinese population in UM. I hope our library can provide Chinese books in literature or any other fields for both Chinese and Americans who are interested in Chinese culture.

Comment on Sat Oct 5, 2013, 4:14 pm

Hi Hui - I'm not sure how you were looking for Chinese books in our catalog, but we do have over 200 Chinese titles in Richter, over 100 titles in our off-site storage facility, and around 40 journals, in addition to music recordings, videos, and e-books, e-music. The majority of materials do seem to be in Chinese history, but there are literature and other disciplines also included. We would be very interested in receiving your suggestions for titles you think the library should own. You can suggest a purchase using the form at : http://library.miami.edu/suggest-a-purchase/ .

A quick tip on finding materials in Chinese or that have Chinese language content: Click on the Advanced Search link on the Catalog Search Tab or Library Catalog Home page. Enter an asterisk " * " , then scroll down on the search form to limit your search to the Language: chinese. This should return a list of the materials we have with Chinese text or spoken Chinese. You can sort your results by date or title. Another option is to run any search in the catalog, then click on the Limit/Sort Search option at the top of the screen, then set the Language Limit to Chinese. I'd be happy to go over this with you, so feel free to email me to set up a meeting : cgowing@miami.edu

Answered by Cheryl Gowing, Associate Dean, Library Facilities, Space Planning & Organizational Development

160 I can't figure out who to email about this, so I guess I'll ask here? Those new library scanners break up scanned documents into chunks, so that one article will come through in three separate emails, and then I need to cut and paste the PDFs together, which is driving me insane. Is there a way to make it stop doing this?

Comment on Wed Oct 2, 2013, 10:54 am

Hello Jessica

I would be happy to assist with the problem you are having. To get a better understanding of the issue, can you please contact me so you can show me exactly what is happening.

Thank you

John Buckard
Richter Library Systems
305-284-4056
jjbuckard@miami.edu

Answered by John Buckard, Systems Support Manager

161 For most students, Richter Library is the only library to study. While the environment is not good enough. We have enough computers in the first floor, while the printers and people talking cause too much noise, people can't focus on study here. The second floor is quite,but the AC is very cold and lack computer. I hope the library can make some change.

Comment on Fri Sep 6, 2013, 6:06 pm

Hi Hashi - Students need a variety of types of study space which we do our best to accomodate within Richter Library. The first floor of Richter allows for group study and conversation; it is *not* a quiet study environment. With the exception of the 2nd floor group study rooms, all other floors in the Library, Mezzanine, 2nd-9th, are designated as Quiet Zones. Quiet Zone areas allow for quiet, individual study with no cell phone use allowed. If you find folks in Quiet Zones who are not observing the noise restriction, please feel free to notify library staff at the Info Services or Circulation Desks, or use our Chat or Ask-A-Librarian link.

As we have noted in previous posts, all academic libraries are kept at a temperature that's somewhat colder than most homes or office spaces, as colder temperatures and low humidity are required to ensure the long-term preservation of library materials. We try to keep public spaces at a reasonably comfortable temperature, but understand that many people will still find the Library to be cold.

Answered by Cheryl Gowing, Associate Dean, Library Facilities, Space Planning & Organizational Development

162 The bathrooms by Starbucks could use diaper changing tables.

Comment on Thu Sep 5, 2013, 10:41 am

We have contacted University Facilities to see if diaper changing tables could be installed in the vending machines area restrooms. We will provide an update as soon as we have any more information from Facilities.

Answered by Cheryl Gowing, Associate Dean, Library Facilities, Space Planning & Organizational Development

163 SPSS Software has expired and this is the only place on campus to use such space consuming software

Comment on Mon Sep 2, 2013, 12:47 pm

Thank you for letting us know about this. The license for SPSS is maintained by Central IT, who set the image for all of the campus computing labs, as well as the public computers in Richter Library. They are renewing the SPSS license and will reimage the Richter computers to restore access. Since they use the same image in all of the campus/dorm labs, you should be able access SPSS from any of those computers once the refresh is complete.

Central IT will be replacing a number of the Richter Information Commons computers this Friday evening, Sept. 6th, after the library closes. They will be re-imaging all of the public computers at that time, so the SPSS software should be restored by Saturday morning. The re-imaging will also address some of the printing problems folks have experienced from IE [Internet Explorer].

Answered by Cheryl Gowing, Associate Dean, Library Facilities, Space Planning & Organizational Development

164 To print something, you are required to type your password in once to login to the printer and ALSO once again to actually print. This is very redundant and frustrating. It also makes students wait in line longer when multiple people are printing. It is even more frustrating because the keys are small and the touch screen does not register keys very easily, especially when passwords require a non-alpha key which then requires you to use the "shift" key and it's very cumbersome, therefore it takes a lot longer and much more care to even enter the password in to begin with. Please, PLEASE, instruct the software provider to get rid of the "double password" problem. There is no rational basis for logging in your password twice. When you initially login, that should clearly be enough to go ahead and print. I never register complaints, so please understand this is of paramount importance, so much so that I am going through the onerous process of actually lodging a complaint. Please fix this. Please require only a single login. Thank you.

Comment on Thu Aug 29, 2013, 9:49 pm

Hello David Thank you for letting us know about the frustrations you are experiencing with having to enter the extra password to release your print jobs. You are right. Entering the password more than once to print does seem redundant and we have brought this to the attention of University of Miami IT Security. Unfortunately we are not able to remove the extra password because it adds an extra layer of security. Should you have any further questions or concerns regarding this issue, please feel free to reach out to me directly at 305-284-4056. Or you can email me at jjbuckard@miami.edu.

Answered by John Buckard, Systems Support Manager

165 Can you please install google chrome as a browser choice on your library computers? I had problem doing homework assignments when they both crashed and I find chrome to be more dependable.

Comment on Mon Aug 19, 2013, 2:25 pm

Hello Erica

Thank you for reaching out to us with this suggestion. We will be updating the software on the Information Commons computers within the next couple of weeks and Chrome will be implemented at this time.

Answered by John Buckard, Systems Support Manager

166 8th Floor Department is really cold. Is there any way to raise the temperature in the research areas?

Comment on Wed Jul 24, 2013, 11:27 am

Hello-
We here in Special Collections know all too well the "chill factor" experienced by staff and users alike...but hopefully the warmth of the people working here make up a bit for the low temperatures.

But here's the explanation for the lower temperatures: since we house the Library's wonderful rare book, manuscript, and archival collections, we need to make sure that the delicate objects--including books on vellum and rag paper, gorgeous 18th and 19th century leather bindings, early photographs, architectural drawings and blueprints, etc. are kept at the ideal temperature and relative humidity (around 60 degrees fahrenheit with a relative humidity of pls/minus 50%) to ensure their stability and longevity. Many of these items are one of a kind and therefore irreplaceable...

We love to have people visit us and use our materials, and definitely don't want the chill to detract from the experience of being able to delve through our treasures. So...just remember to bring an extra sweater or a wrap when you visit the 8th floor and you'll be good to go!

Answered by Cristina Favretto, Head, Special Collections

167 Hi, since the summer starts, I found there are many ants on the desks of second floor, which may due to the food debris students left.

Comment on Tue Jul 23, 2013, 1:57 pm

Yikes!

giant ant attacking woman, from 1954 film 'Them'

We've reported this to Facilities, who will come to clean the area and handle the ant infestation.

This is a good reminder to please clean up after yourself if you've brought a snack into the library. We've tried to be more accomodating of food & drink, but library users need to do their part and help keep the library clean of food debris. No one wants bugs taking over the library!

[movie still image from the 1954 film, "Them"]

Answered by Cheryl Gowing, Associate Dean, Library Facilities, Space Planning & Organizational Development

168 The graduate study room and study carrels are amazing, and the area is getting better all the time. I would love to see a sorting cart or shelf somewhere in there for us to leave books that we no longer need. Thanks for everything you do for us.

Comment on Sun Jun 9, 2013, 11:48 pm

Hi Barry - We're glad the Graduate Study Room and carrels seem to be working out so well for grad students.

Thanks for the great idea about putting a sorting cart in the area. We're still digging out from the deluge of end-of-year book returns, so most of our carts are in action at the moment, but we'll get something set up ASAP.

Keep those ideas coming!

Answered by Cheryl Gowing, Associate Dean, Library Facilities, Space Planning & Organizational Development

169 Can you please have a computer at the 9th floor ? Couple of times I was there and I had to look up a book number and I had to come down to the 2nd floor to access a computer.

Comment on Wed May 15, 2013, 9:35 am

Hello Anoop

Thank you for contacting us. We do see the need for having a computer on the 9th floor and are considering making this happen as one of our summer projects. Until we can make this happen, there are computers on the 4th - 7th floors of the stacks for you to utilize.

Please feel free to contact me with any further questions, comments or concerns.

jjbuckard@miami.edu

Answered by John Buckard, Systems Support Manager

170 What in the world is that noise on the 2nd floor? It kind of sounds like a really loud copy machine in that the noise is repetitive and squeaky. I hear it from the graduate space and it happens every half hour or so. Very distracting.

Comment on Thu May 2, 2013, 2:23 am

Hi. The noise is from a vent in the roof of a nearby building. It used to be muffled by the book stacks, but when we put in the new Graduate Study Rooms, suddenly the noise was noticeable. This issue has been reported to the people in campus facilities, but they have not been able to work out a solution yet.

Answered by Andrew Darby, Head, Web & Application Development

171 i like your website

Comment on Wed May 1, 2013, 1:36 pm

Thank you, Cheyenne, we appreciate the kind words!

Answered by Andrew Darby, Head, Web & Application Development

172 There are some lights out in the stacks, specifically- the 6th floor corner stalls by the router. If someone could fix this, it would be much appreciated

Comment on Wed May 1, 2013, 12:21 pm

Thank you for pointing this out. Our Facilities Manager, Roca Beiro, had an electrician come and fix the lights. She is also having someone come tomorrow morning to inspect all of the other floors.

Again, we appreciate you bringing this to our attention.

Answered by Andrew Darby, Head, Web & Application Development

173 People don't understand that a library is a place where people go study. Not hang out and yell at each other. Why don't librarians go to people and make the "shhh" noise when they talk (or yell at each other). The world would be a better place. It is just a suggestion, but I have been to many libraries, and this is the only one where silence is not enforced. Thank you.

Comment on Tue Apr 30, 2013, 11:27 am

People also go to the library to work on group projects, now routinely assigned in many courses, hence, we have the tension between folks who need traditional quiet study space and those who need to work/study in groups. We restrict group work to Richter's first floor or in closed group study rooms, leaving the 2nd floor and the Stack Tower for purely quiet study.

If you are on the 2nd Fl or in the Stacks and those around you are not respecting the Quiet Zone, please don't hesitate to use our Ask a Librarian service to send a quick email, chat, or text message to let us know of the problem. We'll send a staff member or security guard to quiet the offenders.

Answered by Cheryl Gowing, Associate Dean, Library Facilities, Space Planning & Organizational Development

174 I usually bring my laptop, but when I use the computers I find that some basic programs need updating. Right now Adobe Flash is outdated and my pages keep crashing. Is there a plan in place to keep systems updated regularly? Maybe auto-update for vital programs?

Comment on Wed Apr 24, 2013, 1:56 pm

Hello Rumbi

Thank you for contacting us with the issue you are having. My name is John Buckard with the RIchter Library Systems Department. I have tested several flash sites on several of the computers in the Information Commons and was not able to duplicate the error. In an effort to fully resolve the problem, please feel free to contact me and I would be happy to sit down with you to further troubleshoot.

Thank you again

John Buckard
jjbuckard@miami.edu
305 284-4056

Answered by John Buckard, Systems Support Manager

175 The women's restroom smells bad most of the time. Please do something about it. Thank you.

Comment on Sat Apr 13, 2013, 4:33 pm

This is an issue we are having with all of our restrooms. We met yesterday with UNICCO, the company who provides cleaning services for the University. They acknowledged they need to escalate the level of clearning for the library restrooms, especially as we move into our 24/7 coverage. They will be adding staff to ensure someone focuses exclusively on maintaining the bathrooms, including adding weekend coverage. We have also asked that deodorizers be restored to all of the bathrooms and the AC air flow within the bathrooms reviewed.

We hope these measures will quickly restore our facilities to the high level of sanitary cleanliness we expect at the University. Please don't hesitate to contact the Circulation Desk Supervisor if you find continuing issues with the maintenance of the restrooms - or any other facility issues in the Libraries.

Answered by Cheryl Gowing, Associate Dean, Library Facilities, Space Planning & Organizational Development

176 The students could benefit from renting blankets. THANK YOU !!

Comment on Tue Apr 2, 2013, 8:34 pm

Loaning out blankets is an interesting idea, but unfortunately we don't have laundry facilities so it would be a challenge to keep blankets/throws clean and sanitary.

I'm sure we've both seen students hunkered down on library lounge chairs for a quick nap, especially once we get into 24/7. I wouldn't want to be the next person to check out a blanket that someone has inadvertently drooled on :-) .

I would suggest you bring a sweater or wrap if you are planning a long library session and find it to be colder than you like.

Answered by Cheryl Gowing, Associate Dean, Library Facilities, Space Planning & Organizational Development

177 We find that it is distractingly cold. Please raise the temperature. THANK YOU !

Comment on Tue Apr 2, 2013, 8:33 pm

The University's standard temperature for public spaces is 74 degrees. Given the size of the building and floors with high ceilings, it can be a challenge to maintain an even temperature throughout Richter, but we do our best. If you can let us know where in Richter you find it especially cold, we'll be happy to test the space to see if the HVAC system is out of balance in that area.

You'll find that all academic libraries are kept at a temperature that's somewhat colder than most homes or office spaces, as colder temperatures and low humidity are required to ensure the long-term preservation of library materials. We try to keep public spaces at a reasonably comfortable temperature, but understand that many people will still find the Library to be cold.

Please let us know what space(s) you find especially cold and we'll investigate, but if you are planning on spending long periods of time in Richter, it might be advisable to plan to bring a sweater, etc. - as do many of the library staff!

Answered by Cheryl Gowing, Associate Dean, Library Facilities, Space Planning & Organizational Development

178 You should have an easier way to find the Overdrive link on the library webpage. Maybe a link on the front page?

Comment on Tue Apr 2, 2013, 10:32 am

Thanks, Liz, you're right, it is a bit tricky to find. We're going to add an Overdrive promotion to the home page soon, which will increase visibility but not really solve the problem. Over the summer I'm going to look into modifying the main navigation, so that if you hover over Books you will see some options in a "mega menu" dropdown . . . including Overdrive.

We’re in the process of adding an exciting new collection to the service, so watch out for the launch announcement in a couple of weeks.

Answered by Andrew Darby, Head, Web & Application Development

179 We all love studying at the library. However, Friday and Saturday closed at 10:00pm which sucks. My friends also agree that these two days closed too early. I mean at least Saturday should close at 11:30pm.

Comment on Fri Mar 1, 2013, 2:35 pm

Hi Kazuya - It's great to hear that you love studying at the library, so much so that you want to stay even longer! Unfortunately, our turnstile stats consistently show that there isn't enough traffic in Richter Library on Friday and Saturday nights throughout the semester to justify keeping the library open longer on those evenings, except during our 24/7 periods at the end of the Fall & Spring semesters. This is something we look at and discuss every year, as we are aware there are some folks who would like to see longer hours.

We are hoping that the opening of the new Student Activity Center later this year will help relieve some of the pressure for late night study space, as the new faciltiy will have a 24/7 study space.

Answered by Cheryl Gowing, Associate Dean, Library Facilities, Space Planning & Organizational Development

180 What time do the graduate study rooms close? I have received conflicting information from the library staff (perhaps due to changes in the policy)? Is it 1:00a or 1:30a?

Comment on Fri Mar 1, 2013, 12:03 am

Hello Rumbi,

Right now the rooms are available for use until 1:30 as a bit of a pilot program this semester (with the idea that we'd like to keep as much of the library open as late as possible). If all goes well, we'll keep it that way - unless getting the area closed on time and patrons safely out becomes an issue for our night staff and we need to revert to 1AM.
Also, just FYI -the grad study area will be open 24 hours a day along with the rest of the library starting on April 21st.

Answered by Steven C. Roberts, Head of Access Services

181 I just wanted to say that you guys are doing a wonderful job! From my personal experience, your customer service is better than any other university library (and I went to 3 univ. one was UF) I have been to. And your comment section is unique where you directly answer all the questions very politely and professionally (though the questions are not always that way). Usually, no one ever knows if anybody is ever reading your comment or anything is ever going to be done. So this comment section itself is very commendable! As always everyone is good at pointing when something is wrong, but forget to do the same when you get it right. So I just wanted to say 'great job'! And maybe write something in the suggestion page to be bit polite and respectful when people post a suggestion.

Comment on Thu Feb 28, 2013, 3:52 pm

You're making us blush.....but we seriously appreciate your comments. Quality customer service is what we strive for most of all - we're here for you!

We take all comments - positive and negative - to heart, so please encourage your friends and colleagues to utlilize this service in order to make your voice heard.

Answered by Steven C. Roberts, Head of Access Services

182 I would REALLY like to see the library link of the myUM Home "dashboard" it has police department, travel abroad, academic calendar and Green U but no library! Not even when you click on Academic under "Student" tab do you find the library under Online Resources. Please include that. It will save me so much time because I use the library site a lot. Thank you!

Comment on Sat Feb 16, 2013, 3:41 pm

We think that's a great idea, and we'll pass your suggestion along to the appropriate web people.

Let us know if you have any ideas on how to improve the library website.

Answered by Andrew Darby, Head, Web & Application Development

183 Dear Staff, This has got to be the loudest "library" i have ever tried to study in. What's the point of having graduate study rooms meant for "quiet" individual study if you are bombarded with noise from all angles?...if it's not the slamming of the door to get into the study rooms, it's the people in the rowdy group study rooms on the opposite side of the wall, or the incessant overhead squeaking of whatever mechanical situation you guys have going on here. It is beyond awful. I pay top dollar to go to this school and i don't feel like i should have to put up with these disruptions on a consistent basis. It appears as though library staff couldn't care less about these conditions. For these reasons alone, i would never recommend anyone to come to this school let alone this god awful excuse for a library. Do something !!!!!!

Comment on Sat Feb 16, 2013, 11:32 am

Dear Ticked Off:

While we do our best to create an environment conducive for both group and quiet study, unfortunately, we do not have any completely sound-proofed areas within the Libraries.

You do make a good point about the 2nd Fl Group Study Rooms, as group work does tend to make more noise than one would like in a quiet zone. We are installing new signs in the 2nd Fl Group Study Rooms to remind folks they are on a quiet study floor and to be considerate of those working around them.    Our Circulation Supervisors have been asked to make hourly rounds when the desk schedule permits, and will remind folks of the quiet zone as needed.

If you are bothered by the noise made by those around you, whether within the Graduate Study Rooms or without, feel free to remind your fellow students of the quiet zone.   If you are uncomfortable doing so, you can report noise to library staff by using our Chat/Ask a Librarian service [http://library.miami.edu/ask-a-librarian/ ] or Text a Librarian [305-809-7770].   They will alert the Circulation Supervisor and/or Security Guard, who will then address the matter.

Answered by Cheryl Gowing, Associate Dean, Library Facilities, Space Planning & Organizational Development

184 Feeling Stalked in the Stacks? Here's what to do...

Comment on Tue Feb 12, 2013, 11:33 am

Someone recently posted a question to the "Dear V" advice column in the Miami Hurricane, indicating they felt "stalked in the stacks" since the same person seemed to always sit near them and entered/left the library at the same time.

If you feel stalked/followed while in any of our libraries, please either contact University Public Safety [305-284-6666] or a library staff member, who will contact Public Safety on your behalf.

We strive to maintain a safe, secure, and comfortable environment for all library users, so if another patron is making you uncomfortable, is noisy, or otherwise disrupting your ability to study, please let us know.

You can contact us by chat [http://library.miami.edu/ask-a-librarian/] or text [305-809-7770], or stop by any library service desk. Stay safe!

Answered by Cheryl Gowing, Associate Dean, Library Facilities, Space Planning & Organizational Development

185 Could someone please spray some lubricant on the door of the Women's restroom (2nd floor)? It makes a terrible wailing noise that I can hear over my headphones. Thanks!

Comment on Mon Feb 11, 2013, 8:50 pm

This has been reported to University Facilities and should be fixed shortly. Thanks for letting us know about this and don't hesitate in the future to let us know about any facility issue that disrupts your quiet study.

Answered by Cheryl Gowing, Associate Dean, Library Facilities, Space Planning & Organizational Development

186 There is a lot of talking on the second floor in the "quiet study" area in the evening, and I'm disappointed that no library staff ever enforces it. It is frustrating that I cannot find a quiet area of the library.

Comment on Fri Feb 8, 2013, 1:23 pm

We will remind the security guard who patrols Richter Library in the evenings to ask folks who are talking on the second floor or in the stacks to respect the quiet study zone, or move to the first floor.

If you are in a quiet study zone and someone around you is being disruptive, you can ask them to be quiet, but if you are not comfortable doing so, please let library staff or the security guard know and they will address the issue with the patron(s) in question. If you are concerned about getting up and losing your seat/computer, you can also use the Chat or Text a Librarian service [http://library.miami.edu/ask-a-librarian/] to alert library staff to the problem.

Answered by Cheryl Gowing, Associate Dean, Library Facilities, Space Planning & Organizational Development

187 Hello, I like studying in the Mezzanine. Over the course of the last 3 semesters, the Mez has had more and more study tables removed. I think this is a bad idea. There is a core of dedicated student who use the space on a regular basis. Please do not remove any more chairs or tables from the Mez. In addition, I was told I could not take a chair from floor 2 to the Mez. This chair policy makes no sense, because the Mez currently has fewer chairs than tables.

Comment on Tue Feb 5, 2013, 4:08 pm

Two carrels were moved to a different location than they were supposed to be in (likely by students)….so we moved them back to where they belong with all the rest. We removed one desk to the 2nd floor as part of the reconfiguration last summer – so that’s the only seat that actually disappeared from the mezzanine. A chair or two had also been moved from its corresponding desk – and have been put back now.

We do periodic checks of the tables and study carrels around the library to make sure they all have the appropriate number of chairs, but students do invariably move furniture around to suit an immediate need.

Please don't heitate to let the Circulation Desk Supervisor know if you find a table/carrel missing chairs, or other furniture placement problems. We will get these addressed as soon as possible.

Answered by Cheryl Gowing, Associate Dean, Library Facilities, Space Planning & Organizational Development

188 Hello, I am wondering if there is a newletter going out in which I might be able to post a listing for the sale of my piano! Thank You

Comment on Mon Jan 21, 2013, 4:01 pm

Sorry, Abby, we don't produce a newsletter with this sort of listing. You could try Craigslist or see if there is a bulletin board in an appropriate department (Music?) on campus.

Answered by Andrew Darby, Head, Web & Application Development

189 The sign in your lobby about ID requirements is written in poor grammar. It says "you must have a your CANE ID CARD" (emphasis from sign). This is incorrect. I am embarrassed to go to an institution of high learning at which the library does not have a satisfactory command of its own language. Please advise.

Comment on Tue Jan 15, 2013, 6:40 pm

I agree - we should have caught the typo before printing the poster. The signs have been pulled and will be re-printed tomorrow. I'll review our procedures for final approval of signs to prevent further errors.

Thanks for letting us know about this!

Answered by Cheryl Gowing, Associate Dean, Library Facilities, Space Planning & Organizational Development

190 The electrical outlets in the floor on the second floor (past the Stacks elevator) are not working.

Comment on Mon Jan 14, 2013, 2:59 pm

These outlets are still being installed. They should be ready by Friday, January 18th.

Answered by Roca Beiro, Facilities Manager

191 You can't print from internet explorer on the printers. You should either post a disclaimer on the desktop or delete the program all together. Thank you!

Comment on Mon Jan 7, 2013, 12:51 pm

Thank you for bringing this issue to our attention and I do apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused. We have pinpointed the issue and are taking steps to ensure it is fixed. The lab will be reimaged and the issue should be fixed for Spring Semester 2013.

Answered by John Buckard, Systems Support Manager

192 I have spoken with the Digital Media Lab technician several times in person and on the phone. My experience with this person has been relatively unpleasant. In addition to the abrasive curt tone, they deny facts stated by the customer and act as though not only is the customer wrong, but they also must be making up this information. For example, I sent a poster for printing via email and did not receive a confirmation. When I called and stated this, the technician said there was no way they received the email and requested I resend. In the process of my forwarding of the email, they found the original. Another example is when I called to ask about staff hours during winter break and the technician simply stated "I do not know what you are asking me." When I restated the question to ask whether or not they will be printing during winter break they said it would be depending on staff availability. When I asked what is staff availability the technician stated that they did not know, and it would be whether or not someone was in the media lab, which was incredibly unhelpful. Lastly, I asked if they could trim my poster to be 36" in width because another media lab technician from a few months ago told me over the phone that they were capable of trimming posters down to size. The technician denied there ever being any other technician working in the lab and stated that they've never trimmed posters. I cannot recall this technician's name, but their information and photo were at one point on the media lab webpage. I do not like being treated as though I am making information up, and worse I do not appreciate rude, unhelpful customer service when I am paying money for that particular service.

Comment on Wed Dec 19, 2012, 11:42 am

I apologize for the inconvenience you have experienced. The Digital Media Lab staff try their best to meet the service needs of our patrons. Unfortunately, in this instance this was not achieved. For clarification we do Trim posters, and printing will be Available during the winter break. During the opening hours of the library for the winter break (Dec 17th-Jan 13th), the Digital Media staff will be available to assist with printing or renting equipment Mon-Fri 12pm-5pm, and Sun 1pm-4pm.

Answered by ,

193 I tried to find the print issue of SCIENCE today. Unfortunately, the lib doesn't have it. Science is a very top journal. Why we don't have the print issue?

Comment on Mon Dec 17, 2012, 3:23 pm

Beginning with the subscription year 2012, the Libraries cancelled our print subscription to Science in favor of an online-only subscription. This allows for anytime-anywhere access to this title for our patrons. The majority of our journal titles with scientific focus were migrated to e-only several years ago, which has been viewed very favorably by the students and faculty who need access to these titles.

Answered by Elizabeth (Lisa) Fish, Associate Dean, Collection Strategies

194 Please do something about the noise level during finals. I understand that there is to be some noise on the 1st floor but I was under the impression the entire library was a quiet zone during finals. The noise level in the back is ridiculous, no one wants to be in the library at 5am to hear about how crazy ridiculous someone's weekend was. Thank you

Comment on Tue Dec 11, 2012, 6:05 am

We will ask security to be more aggressive in keeping noise down. Also, please see the previous comment and response. You can also contact library staff or security and ask them to intervene if you feel uncomfortable doing so.

Answered by Scott Britton, Director of Access, Information & Research Services

195 Please, something needs to be done about the volume on the first floor. I understand it is the noisiest floor because of everything going on but people have lost all sense of common courtesy. Why are there groups working on a project in the public computers section? There are rooms for that. Why are people answering their phone and not quietly walking away to speak? Why are people standing around and chatting for half an hour? Other people are trying to study, trying to focus and read, and it is impossible with the obnoxious loud talking all around. There needs to be some type of reinforcement...Thank you

Comment on Sat Dec 8, 2012, 3:52 pm

The first floor of Richter is intended to be noisy, not only because of the various services offered there but because there needs to be a place for collaborative study. We have a limited number of group study rooms, but they are fully booked on most days, leaving other groups no option but to study in open areas. The second floor and the entire stacks tower are designated as quiet study spaces, so there are options for those who seek quiet. All that said, there is no room in Richter for discourteous behavior. If people are excessively loud, especially if they are not doing coursework, you can ask them to be quiet. If you are uncomfortable doing that then ask library staff or security to talk to them. We’ll ask them to quiet down or find a less disruptive space for their work.

Answered by Scott Britton, Director of Access, Information & Research Services

196 There are not enough chairs on the second floor during finals. Also, room 205 sounds like there is a pipe leaking!

Comment on Tue Dec 4, 2012, 9:19 am

Thank you for the report on the possible leaking pipe. We have reported it to Facilities, and they will investigate.

We ordered enough chairs for the study tables on the second floor. However, some people move them around in order to study with friends or even move them to other floors (I guess they like that style of chair). We will do a complete chair inventory at the end of exams and will recommend purchasing more so we have extra chairs around. Of course, purchasing more chairs depends on the budget...

Answered by Scott Britton, Director of Access, Information & Research Services

197 Is there any way that the library can turn on the lights in the stacks when it gets dark? I see the light above the study desks but they aren't on and it makes the study area quite dark...

Comment on Tue Nov 27, 2012, 5:38 pm

Actually, YOU can turn on the lights. There are switches every 10 feet or so that control the nearby lights. Look for the switches on the columns or side of the study desks.

Answered by Scott Britton, Director of Access, Information & Research Services

198 Kindle chargers in the library, please!

Comment on Wed Nov 7, 2012, 11:01 pm

Thank you for the suggestion! We have Mac chargers available for checkout because they are the same for the various Mac models. We have looked into purchasing chargers for other devices, but there is so much variety it is difficult to see how they could be managed; there can be a problem if the wrong charger is used in a device. But we will look into Kindle chargers because they are more consistent like the Macs.
Thanks again.

Answered by Cheryl Gowing, Associate Dean, Library Facilities, Space Planning & Organizational Development

199 The weekends are the only time I really have to study -- and as a double science major, I have a lot of studying!! Why isn't the library open late Friday and Saturday? I feel like it would be very beneficial for the students if the university offered later hours for a place of study ALL week long.

Comment on Sat Nov 3, 2012, 3:10 pm

We're glad you find Richter Library a great late night study spot. Unfortunately, our hourly floor counts over the years have consistently shown that the usage of Richter Library dramatically drops over Friday and Saturday evenings from 6pm to 10pm when we close. At this point we don't have the budget to extend hours, but I'm happy to report that the new Student Center, slated to open in late Spring/Summer 2013 will have a 24/7 study space that will be available year-round.

Richter Library does go to a 24/7 schedule during the last couple weeks of every Fall & Spring semester in recognition of the need for additional study time while students prepare for finals and projects.

Our 24/7 schedule this Fall will begin on Sunday, November 25th at 9 am and last through Tuesday, Dec. 11th, closing at 9 pm on that day.

Answered by Cheryl Gowing, Associate Dean, Library Facilities, Space Planning & Organizational Development

200 Over the last few weeks, I've been doing quite a bitof research on modern and contemporary art for an essay I am writing for an exhibition catalog. I just want to give kudos to the librarian(s) responsible for acquiring such a valuable and extensive selection of titles on the subject. Particularly for keeping up to date on titles recently published in Latin America. It really enriches the scholarship - from exhibition catalogs to more obscure or scholarly publications. Thank you!

Comment on Fri Oct 26, 2012, 6:23 pm

Thanks so much. It's great to know that the material we purchase is being used. We do collect carefully in art and art history, particularly Latin American art, so this feedback is especially helpful.

Answered by Phyllis Robarts, Education & Outreach Librarian

201 is it just me, or is it hotter on the first floor that usual today?

Comment on Mon Oct 22, 2012, 12:03 am

It could be hotter than usual, but not so hot that it indicates a problem with our HVAC system. The biggest issue with maintaining the temperature in Richter is that the library is large and very open, so creating unique zones is difficult. The result is that it takes a day or so to "catch up" with the weather. Also, whatever side the sun is on will be warmer because we can't quickly switch A/C from one side of the building to another.

Answered by Scott Britton, Director of Access, Information & Research Services

202 How do I know if the library is going to buy the book I suggested or if it already came in? Thank you.

Comment on Sun Oct 21, 2012, 7:23 pm

If you suggested a purchase through the "Suggest a Purchase" form http://library.miami.edu/suggest-a-purchase/, you should have received a confirmation email from me. It is very rare that we turn down a purchase request from a member of the UM community as these requests are very important for building collections that are relevant for our patrons.
Once an item is received, it will be added to the catalog and you should be able to find it there http://catalog.library.miami.edu/ . If you provide your email when you make a request, you will also receive an email when the item that you requested arrives. If you have questions regarding specific items or if you need an item urgently, you are welcome to contact me directly. My email is jrenaud@miami.edu

Answered by ,

203 Regarding books about Cuban art and culture, it would be very helpful for the library to acquire additional copies for their main stacks. Because of the CHC's limited hours, it becomes impossible for those of us who do research passed 4pm and on weekends (when the CHC is closed) to reference any major titles on Cuban issues.

Comment on Sat Oct 13, 2012, 11:49 am

Dear Elizabeth,
The source of funding used when buying an item determines where it will reside in the Library, and the Library approaches added copies conservatively to prevent unnecessary duplication. These two factors influence why some materials may only be found in a non-circulating collection such as the CHC. If you have a list of items you think should be available in the Stacks, we will evaluate those items for possible acquisition and placement in the circulating collection. You can send such a list to the subject librarian responsible for that area. Here is the link to the list of subject librarians: http://library.miami.edu/sp/subjects/staff.php?letter=Subject%20Librarians%20A-Z
Thank you.

204 Time to get all of Mo Yan's books...Nobel Prize winner.

Comment on Fri Oct 12, 2012, 12:13 pm

Thank you for this purchase recommendation. While we own some of Mr. Yan's important works, we will check to see which of his other writings are available for inclusion in our collections. For purchase suggestions, you are always welcome to contact me via email, jrenaud@miami.edu. Shortly, we will re-launch our recommend a purchase form, which will provide another way of making purchase suggestions. Your recommendations are very important and help us build strong and relevant collections.

Answered by ,

205 in the past i cou[d go to internet explorer,log on to a web site,and print.this is no longer possible.i must now go to mozella foxfire to print. why?

Comment on Sat Oct 6, 2012, 1:30 pm

Hello Susan

To print from IE in the commons, select File -> Print from the top left menu. If that option is not available, click on the gear icon in the top right of the browser. Then click print.

Answered by John Buckard, Systems Support Manager

206 Would it be possible for richter to aquire industrial (AKA powerful) automated air fresheners for the 1st and 2nd floor restrooms? I've noticed this semester that they've become almost unbearable due to the heavy traffic...but I think that could be a solution! :) Everything else is dandy though--Keep up the great work :D

Comment on Sun Sep 30, 2012, 3:23 pm

We have also noticed that the bathrooms need more attention. We are working with the cleaners to increase the number of cleanings or adjust the cleanings to match heavy use. We can also try air fresheners. Thank you for the suggestion!

Answered by Scott Britton, Director of Access, Information & Research Services

207 love the PROTEST display

Comment on Sat Sep 29, 2012, 2:22 pm

Thanks! We always appreciate feedback on our displays.

Answered by Cristina Favretto, Head, Special Collections

208 can library staff or someone of authority enforce quietness? jesus its sooo loud downstairs and upstairs gets fairly rowdy to. last time i checked i went to the library because it was quiet. how are we supposed to improve our academics when our library doubles for a watering hole for people to come hang out at

Comment on Wed Sep 19, 2012, 11:49 pm

Tyler,
The first floor of Richter is a space for collaborative study, so noise is to be expected. However, the second floor and stacks tower are designated as quiet study areas. If it gets noisy in those areas, you should report it to the first floor Circulation Desk or to the security guard who patrols in the evening. The number for Circulation is 305-284-3233.

Answered by Scott Britton, Director of Access, Information & Research Services

209 Students inform me that the site licenses for SPSS have expired on the library computers. If this is the case, could someone please renew those licenses ? Our students depend on that statistical package.

Comment on Tue Sep 11, 2012, 12:17 pm

Thank you for the alert. The license for SPSS is maintained by Central IT, who set the image for all of the campus computing labs, as well as the public computers in Richter Library. They have renewed the SPSS license and are reimaging the Richter computers to restore access. We've created a tickler in our library systems to alert us before the new license expires, so we can remind IT to renew the subscription before access is revoked.

Answered by Cheryl Gowing, Associate Dean, Library Facilities, Space Planning & Organizational Development

210 For a senior design project in mechanical engineering my group will need to use Xcode which is an Integrated Development Environment (IDE) containing a suite of software development tools developed by Apple for developing software for OS X and iOS. Can this software be installed to the Apple computers in the library? Thanks

Comment on Mon Sep 10, 2012, 10:36 am

Hi Yousef - We are adding XCode to the MAC alcove computers, as well as in the Seminar Room [opposite the bound journals on compact shelving]. You may or may not have noticed that over the summer we upgraded the 12 computers in the Seminar Room to MACs, so now we have many more available for students.

Answered by Cheryl Gowing, Associate Dean, Library Facilities, Space Planning & Organizational Development

211 I just wanted to say you are doing a great job with the library. I love the comment section and how you take time to post the reply so that people can see. This makes you accountable and also let people know that their comments are indeed being read. Thank you staff for all the great work you do!

Comment on Sun Sep 9, 2012, 1:54 pm

Thanks! it's so nice to have the efforts of our staff appreciated.

We've had a physical and online 'suggestion box' for several years, but didn't receive many comments or suggestions. We're hoping that the new format and greater visibility on the redesigned website will encourage more people to share their suggestions, questions, and comments on library services, resources, and programs.

Keep those comments coming !

Answered by Cheryl Gowing, Associate Dean, Library Facilities, Space Planning & Organizational Development

212 In the digital media lab site, it says "If you like these programs we use, download your own copy!", but where is the link? Thank you so much!

Comment on Thu Sep 6, 2012, 12:38 pm

Please refer to http://library.miami.edu/medialab/equipment/, scroll down to "Links to Free Downloads" to find a list of browsers, AIR applications, media players and conversion software that are free to download.

Answered by Pia Cruzalegui, Digital Media Lab Technician

213 I think Camtasia 8 or Adobe presenter 8 will be a great software to have both faculty and staff, students to make tutorials and presentations.Adobe after effects and adobe pro are just too high tech for most people.

Comment on Thu Sep 6, 2012, 12:35 pm

I agree, sometimes a simpler tool is all you need. We'd have to purchase a site license in order to put Camtasia8, Adobe Presenter8, or any other commercial software on the Libraries' public computers - and that could be extremely expensive. We'll look into it and see what we can do.

You should know that the software on the Library computers is controlled by a master 'image' generated by staff in the University's Central IT division. This ensures that all of the campus computer labs have the same set of core software, but it also means that the Libraries can't simply add programs to the Libaries public computers.

Thanks for letting us know what software packages you would find helpful to have in the Libraries or elsewhere on campus. We'll be sure to pass that information along to the folks in IT.

Keep those suggestions coming!

Answered by Cheryl Gowing, Associate Dean, Library Facilities, Space Planning & Organizational Development

214 Do you have Gardner's Art Through the Ages (13th Edition or earlier) on reserve? Malinda Cleary Adjunct Art History

Comment on Thu Aug 30, 2012, 7:37 am

We do have numerous copies of Art Through the Ages:

http://catalog.library.miami.edu/search~S11/q?author=Gardner+Helen+D+1946&title=Art+through+the+ages&search_code=a

None of them are currently on Reserve, although one is in the non-circulating Reference collection in Richter, and another is “Room Use Only” at the Architecture Library.

Do you wish to put this item on reserve for one of your classes? If so, please visit our page on Course Reserves Information for Faculty:

http://library.miami.edu/course-reserves/reserves-faculty/

(You may find this from the Library’s home page by clicking Services > Course Reserves > Course Reserves Information for Faculty.)

Answered by Andrew Darby, Head, Web & Application Development

215 How do I request purchases of books and materials?

Comment on Tue Aug 28, 2012, 8:09 am

Visit Request a Purchase. You will need your Cane ID and password.

Answered by Andrew Darby, Head, Web & Application Development

216 Can't find Overdrive. Did you remove it?

Comment on Tue Aug 7, 2012, 10:53 pm

No, Overdrive is still here. You can find it on the Database List under O: library.miami.edu/sp/subjects/databases.php?letter=O

or go directly to: miami.lib.overdrive.com/

We'll also add a link from our Books page.

Answered by Andrew Darby, Head, Web & Application Development

217 it's very cold on all floors.

Comment on Sat Jun 23, 2012, 1:45 pm

We try to keep Richter at a temperature that is comfortable for people but also good for the collections. This means a temperature between 70 and 73 degrees F. Outside temperature as well as humidity can affect how cold the inside temperature feels, although usually the inside temperature does not change. When there are reports of specific areas being too hot or cold, we monitor the environment and let Facilities know if there are any adjustments necessary.

Answered by Scott Britton, Director of Access, Information & Research Services

218 It is absolutely ridiculous that the library closes at 9PM ON A READING DAY. Do faculty not understand that final exams are tomorrow?! This really infuriates me that they cannot keep the library open longer the day before finals.

Comment on Thu Jun 21, 2012, 3:55 pm

So sorry that the library closed early when you needed it. The summer schedule has remained the same for many years, but you make a good point. We create our schedule based on use, and routinely review turnstile activity and conduct head counts to make sure we get it right. That said, it has been a while since we looked at the summer schedule. We will review the data and see if a schedule change is warranted. Thank you for bringing this to our attention.

Answered by Scott Britton, Director of Access, Information & Research Services

219 Please have the staff currently working on the second floor keep their voices down. Multiple students have said something to them but they choose to ignore their requests. Thank you

Comment on Fri Jun 15, 2012, 3:49 pm

We will remind all library staff that the second floor is a quiet study area. If the problem continues, please call or stop by the first floor Circulation Desk and report the problem.

Answered by Scott Britton, Director of Access, Information & Research Services

220 I would like to kindly recommend/request that UM libraries acquire the following book and add it to its collection: ISBN 978-94-007-2283-5 "A Geographic Perspective of Cuban Landscapes" Gebelein, Jennifer

Comment on Tue May 29, 2012, 1:24 pm

Thank you for the purchase recommendation. We will add the title to our collection. For future reference, you may use the "Recommend a Purchase" link from the "Libraries & Collections" tab to recommend titles for purchase. The direct URL is https://catalog.library.miami.edu/acquire .

Answered by Daniel E. Roose, Acquisitions Librarian

221 any chance of getting additional computers in the faculty reading room? there are only two at desks, and one other at a print station (that's thus not really usable for lengthy work). I often can't find a free computer. There is plenty of desk space available ...

Comment on Tue May 22, 2012, 11:28 am

We've reviewed the logs for the room and computer usage and agree that another computer in this space would be helpful. We can immediately add another computer, but we will need to activate a port before it will be able to connect to the internet. This might take a week or two, depending on Telecommunications' schedule.

Answered by Cheryl Gowing, Associate Dean, Library Facilities, Space Planning & Organizational Development

222 The medical campus uses Microsoft Silverlight to play back recorded lectures. The newest update, Silverlight 5, came out a few months ago, but has not been added to the computers at Richter yet. Is there some way to make this happen?

Comment on Sun May 20, 2012, 12:43 pm

The software that is on the Library's computers is controlled from an 'image' maintained by Central IT. This ensures that all of the Gables campus computing labs run the same software in the same version. We don't have the ability to add or update software to the library's public computers, except at specified times during the year when IT reimages the machines.

This means that the Info Commons machines may not be running the most current version of software - especially programs that update frequently [sometimes weekly] like browsers, iTunes, Adobe Acrobat and plug-ins like Flash. However, the versions that are installed on the library computers are able to perform the typcial functions of that software.

In this particular instance, the Libraries computers do have MS Silverlight version 4 installed, so you should still be able to view the Medical Campus lectures. We will be reimaging the public computers over the summer in preparation for the Fall 2012 semester and will update the library software at that time.

Answered by Cheryl Gowing, Associate Dean, Library Facilities, Space Planning & Organizational Development

223 Just a quick note of praise for the 1st floor library staff. As a grad student, I spend 6-8 hours a day in the library, and the staff is ALWAYS extremely helpful and friendly. Nearly all of them remember my name and greet me as I walk in. In spite of the fact that they deal with thousands of students every day, they manage to take care of our individual needs. They all deserve some sort of recognition for another successful school year.

Comment on Wed May 16, 2012, 10:08 am

Thank you very much for your kind words! They have been passed along to the staff.

Answered by Andrew Darby, Head, Web & Application Development

224 Please clean teh Libraries more often. As the top school in Florida, it is very important to have a very clean location that highlights the benefits of being a superior school. Should be vacuumed at least once a week

Comment on Tue May 15, 2012, 1:24 pm

We try to keep the library cleaned, but to avoid disturbing people, we wait until holidays and school breaks to do serious cleaning. It looks like you reported the problem right after our 24/7 schedule, which is a time when we intentionally limit any cleaning that causes noise. As of late May, the carpets have been shampooed and walls painted.

If you see specific areas that need cleaning, spot removal, dusting or maintenance, please report it to the first floor Circulation Desk.

Answered by Scott Britton, Director of Access, Information & Research Services

225 I didn't understand the "MyLibrary(Catalog)" option under "Accounts" until I clicked on it and realized it was the same as it was before. The word "catalog" made it seem there was a way to customize a search on the site and perhaps save it.. Slightly confusing.

Comment on Mon May 14, 2012, 9:02 pm

Yes, the MyLibrary link is still a login to your patron or circulation account at the Libraries. We added the qualifier (Catalog) since the account is associated with services tied to the Libraries' online catalog & circulation system:

viewing your loans
renewing loans
placing/managing holds or requests for library materials
saving catalog searches
setting up 'preferred searches' and weekly alerts for new materials matching those searches
viewing/managing your Reading History [i.e. lists of materials you checked out in the past]
creating/managing your MyLists [i.e. lists of library materials you want to remember]

You can find out more about these features from the Catalog Help pages at: http://catalog.library.miami.edu/help

Answered by Cheryl Gowing, Associate Dean, Library Facilities, Space Planning & Organizational Development

226 Maintenance note: there is a toilet in the 2nd floor ladies restroom that flushes every 30 seconds or so. I think the sensor is malfunctioning. No one was using that stall when I was in the restroom but it flushes anyway. It's probably used a lot of water today alone!

Comment on Mon May 14, 2012, 4:43 pm

Thank you for pointing this out. This information has been passed along to our facilities manager.

Answered by Andrew Darby, Head, Web & Application Development

227 Where is located the WORLDCAT?

Comment on Mon May 14, 2012, 11:34 am

The OCLC WorldCat database is a frequently used resource, so we've added it to the Quick Links drop down on the Libraries' Home Page.

You can find WorldCat, or any other library databases, by searching for the name from the Databases tab on the Library Home Page,

Databases tab from Library Home Page

or by navigating to the relevant first letter of the database - in this case, the W page of the database list:

http://library.miami.edu/sp/subjects/databases.php?letter=W

Please note that if you need a quick answer to a question, your best bet is to check our Ask a Librarian page:

http://library.miami.edu/ask-a-librarian/

Answered by Cheryl Gowing, Associate Dean, Library Facilities, Space Planning & Organizational Development

228 Please abolish the reservation system for group study rooms and revert back to the pre-2006 'first come, first serve'. It is inconvenient, as an individual or study group, to yield to other students taking over the room, claiming they 'reserved' it. I hope every study room, possibly even the grad student rooms, to be given the same openness and up for grabs as the rooms on the first floor are. Thanks for considering.

Comment on Wed Mar 21, 2012, 11:12 am

The current system is a compromise between those who want to schedule a group meeting or study session and those who want to drop in and study. The first floor rooms are available first-come first-served and the second floor rooms may be reserved. There is no single method that will please everyone, so we provide both options. We do try to limit reservations to 3 hours and only one per day.

Answered by Scott Britton, Director of Access, Information & Research Services

229 It would be so great if somebody could tell students to shut up on the second floor because I'm about to kill somebody. Great. thanks.

Comment on Wed Feb 22, 2012, 4:22 pm

Sharing quiet public space is often difficult. If other people are disruptive and do not respond to your request to be quiet, please tell our first floor staff. They will send someone to help manage the situation.

Answered by Scott Britton, Director of Access, Information & Research Services

230 I think the "Find, Catalog, Database, Website" box should be slightly transparent so that it doesn't block the view of the image being displayed.

Comment on Tue Feb 14, 2012, 9:11 am

Thank you for your suggestion. As it happens, just yesterday we tweaked the home page so that when you hover over the links telling you more about the image (e.g., "image from South Florida Postcards") the search box fades out, thus allowing you to see the image. When you move your mouse off the attribution area, the search box returns. I hope this addresses your concern.

Answered by Andrew Darby, Head, Web & Application Development

231 Is it possible to have clean keyboards without so much dust between the keys? Also, some of the letters on the keyboards are no longer visible. Perhaps new keyboards?

Comment on Fri Jan 13, 2012, 12:36 pm

You’re right this did need attention! We typically replace at least 1/3 of all the public computers every summer, but the remaining older machines had very dusty keyboards and many letters had faded.

Thanks to your suggestions, we started spring cleaning early and over the Winter Break have vacuumed all of the Information Commons computers and replaced the keyboards where the letters had faded.

We’ll bump up our maintenance schedule to vacuum every intercession, rather than once a year.

Answered by Scott Britton, Director of Access, Information & Research Services

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