Monday, June 30, 2014

A Sense of Pride

Hello, Everyone
Laura and I were working on gardens Sunday and it occurred to me that there is a deep sense of pride among many staff in the appearance of our buildings. At the same time, there is a certain reluctance on the part of some staff to overstep what they see as clear lines of responsibilities among job descriptions. So, I thought I'd talk to you today about my philosophy that "it takes a village" to keep our grounds and buildings looking their best and in the end, to deliver a great customer experience. I learned very early on in my career that being professional meant contributing to the organization in every way you can, whether the task is included in your list of official responsibilities or not. So no matter where I've worked, I pick up trash I see on the floor or in the parking lot, I pull a weed when I see one poking out in the garden, or I ask visitors who look lost if there is a way I can help. I expect the same from every one of you. It doesn't take ten minutes or a detailed plan to bend over when you see a piece of paper on the floor. Maybe your job isn't to answer questions, but you surely know where those staff members are who do answer questions and any of you can guide a lost patron in the right direction. There's nothing more delightful than visiting a company or business where the pride of the workforce shows through, and there's nothing better than helpful, friendly staff. Let's all pitch in to make our visitors' library experiences they best they can possibly be.
Thanks!
Barb

Friday, June 13, 2014

Library Cleanup Day June 18th


Hello, Everyone

Library Cleanup Day is fast approaching, and I’m looking for one or two team leaders from each location to keep us all on task and coordinate efforts. If you are passionate about cleaning our closets and straightening work areas, please step forward. Team leaders will receive a special token of appreciation.

Here is the game plan for Wednesday:

1.       Chuck and crew are in touch with our waste management services to make sure we don’t overflow our outdoor receptacles.

2.       Chuck and crew will provide cleaning buckets with various cleaning solutions and rags.

3.       Michelle and Brandi will be around with lunch for staff at all locations that day.

4.       You may wear jeans- nice jeans- to work that day. If you’re a soccer fan, you also may wear the team jersey or team t-shirt of your choice. No t-shirts with other slogans unless it’s Kenosha PL. Plain t-shirts are fine.

5.       Shimon will be visiting to take pictures and video of the event and create a fun video of staff in action set to music.

6.       Each team leader will take before and after photos of closets, work spaces, etc that are in particular need of attention.

7.       A prize will be awarded to the most impressive transformation of any work area or location.

8.       While you’re cleaning, look for any safety issues in your work area and report them to Chuck.

9.       While you’re cleaning, consider rearranging your work area for better work flow.

 

While you’re cleaning house, you will discover items that you no longer use or do not want. If it’s still useable, here’s what to do:

1.       Mark it with a note telling us where it came from. Place it in bins or in an area designated “Red Tag” (maintenance staff will designate red tag areas.)

2.       Staff at each location will have a chance to look through all red tag items before the maintenance staff hauls it away.

3.       All unclaimed red tag items will be brought to a central location (Civic Center Garage.) Staff will be invited to shop the central location for things they may need at their location.

4.       Chuck and I will look over anything remaining and decide its fate.

Happy cleaning!

Barb

KPL STAFF BLOG FINAL EDITION

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