From San Diego Community News Group “University Community library chief drives a new Buick” by Sandy Lippe. Excerpts:
University Community Library manager Melissa Martin says you never know until you try; photo by Sandy Lippe
Melissa Martin has a hearty laugh and a great brain. “I always like to try new things,” she says with a smile. “You never know ’til you try.”
Martin says today’s librarian is always busy with collections, staff, the public and showing patrons how to use online catalogs and computers, providing a community center for all ages. No shushing is going on.
Now, Martin calls the University Community branch library her home away from home. She is busy preparing the library collection for transition to Radio Frequency IDentification (RFID), the latest technology for tracking library materials. RFID technology goes beyond security and tracking. It makes it easier and faster to charge and discharge books and other items.
Other latest developments at the branch include a new adult volunteer who will be working two days a week, from 2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m., to help students from Kindergarten through 12.
The Friends of University Community Branch Library provides funding for programs like concerts on the first Wednesday of each month. The computers are busy all day long with students and adults at the helm.
Martin is happy to share the news that library operating hours have increased and that all San Diego public libraries will have extended Saturday hours. On Saturdays, the library is open from 9:30 a.m. until 6 p.m.
This busy librarian is truly wearing many hats, and she welcomes volunteers to help with shelving and anything to support the library (people normally volunteer an hour a week).
What do Facebook, Twitter, Nextdoor, ImproveUC and UCCA have in common? They are all ways neighbors can connect with neighbors and the University City community. Create a post, start a conversation, share the news, organize an event, keep in touch, take a look:
➡️Please note: Information and advertising items included for publication in our print newsletter or on our websites or shared at our community meetings do not constitute an endorsement by the University City Community Association (UCCA) organization or its board members.⬅️
