Renovation Update: Where Have All the Library Books Gone?
Earlier this month, renovations began on the D. Samuel Gottesman Library. As part of the renovation, library staff pulled all the books from the shelves, which have been dismantled.
With renovations underway, the stacks in the library are empty. Find out how you can still access many of these resources.
But where did all the books go? And what does the renovation mean for the shelf life of these print resources?
Removing Books from the Collection
While the process of going through thousands of volumes was an arduous task, Nancy Glassman, assistant director of the library noted, “This project has given us an opportunity to review, fine tune, and update our print collection. A small number of older books that were in poor condition were discarded. Those that are duplicate copies or are now available as e-books are being donated to two organizations—The Internet Archive and Better World Books—so the information they offer are still accessible to those who may need it.”
The Internet Archive is a nonprofit digital library that provides free access to collections of digitized materials, including websites, software applications, music, and audiovisual and print materials. It is committed to providing "universal access to all knowledge." Better World Books is a bookstore that donates proceeds from its discount books sales to non-profit organizations worldwide. It also provides grants that fund literacy projects for libraries and educational nonprofits. During the next few weeks, library staff will be packing up the books that will go to these two entities.
“If you would like to help us with the packing, we invite you to sign up for a one-hour time slot here,” offered Nancy.
Retrievable Books in Various States of Storage
And what about the other books? “We have 12,000 books that are being stored off-site and are retrievable upon request,” said Racheline Habousha, director of the library. “When you make a request, delivery to Einstein will take about two business days and you will be notified when to pick up the book at the library.”
An additional 5,000 books are shelved in the library’s administrative offices, retrievable upon request within one business day. A library staff member will retrieve the book and notify you when it’s ready for you to pick up. And, the library’s collection includes over 40,000 e-books, which are available 24/7.
What’s Next?
What about after the renovation is complete? While the renovation vastly reduces space for storing books, there will be shelving for approximately 2,000 books in the new reading room. Noted Racheline, “We will also maintain the off-site storage and shelving in the administrative area, and our librarians will continue to update and curate the print collection.”
If you need a book during the renovation, which is expected to continue through early August, submit a request using one of the links above or through the library website. You’ll also find information on pop-up libraries throughout our campus each month and how to connect with library staff, who remain available and ready to assist you with your resource and service needs.
Posted on: Monday, June 03, 2024