Making material available for internet audiences is a must for research, and wider access to historical documents is a special challenge. Creating those web based documents, however, can often be a drawn out and expensive process.
At a recent American Library Association Conference, Somerset County Library System (SCLS) Assistant Director Keith McCoy helped to make the process much quicker and more affordable. After speaking with salespeople from Digital Library Systems Group about a color book scanner made specifically for libraries, McCoy entered his name into a drawing and promptly forgot about it.
A phone call at the beginning of March alerted McCoy and SCLS that his name had been drawn in the contest. The prize: scanning equipment and software worth approximately $6,600 would be awarded to the library for free. The machine was set up in mid-March and is already being used to digitize photos and other materials that are a part of the project to capture local Somerset County history: www.mysomersetcounty.org.
SCLS branches also have extensive research materials – photos, letters, rare books, newspaper and magazine articles – that are only available with an appointment in the location where they are stored. However, the scanning equipment will allow SCLS to scan these often fragile documents and put them on the web, reaching a far wider audience more easily.
“This is a very exciting opportunity for SCLS to help the County tell its history to a much wider audience through the internet,” said McCoy. “That we are able to have such sophisticated equipment now in-house for free is a real win for everyone throughout the region.”
Electronic Services Librarian Richard Loomis heads up the My Somerset County Project, which is a joint venture with the Somerset County Office of Freeholders. Residents wishing to add their documents to the collection should contact Loomis at (908) 526-4016 ext. 171 or rloomis@sclibnj.org. He will also be leading the project to digitize SCLS historic documents.
Patrons with further questions can call SCLS at (908) 526-4016 or visit the website at http://www.sclsnj.org. The Somerset County Library System has branches in Bridgewater, Bound Brook, Hillsborough, Manville, at the Mary Jacobs Library in Rocky Hill, North Plainfield, Peapack & Gladstone, Somerville, Warren Township and Watchung.
Showing posts with label Somerset county Library system. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Somerset county Library system. Show all posts
Wednesday, April 23, 2014
Monday, April 14, 2014
Donate to ‘BOBO Fridays’ Food Drive – April 25
Freeholder Patricia Walsh has announced that the next “Buy One, Bring One” (BOBO) collection of food for Somerset County families and individuals in need will be held Friday, April 25. The program has collected 15-plus tons of donations to date.
Canned or boxed food items are accepted. For ideas about healthy foods to donate, go to http://bit.ly/FoodPantryDonations. The monthly drop-off program has collected more than 31,000 pounds of donations since it began in July 2010.
Look for the blue BOBO Fridays bins at these county locations: Somerset County Administration Building, 20 Grove St., Somerville; Park Commission Headquarters, 355 Milltown Road, Bridgewater; Lord Stirling Stable, 256 S. Maple Ave., Basking Ridge; and Environmental Education Center, 190 Lord Stirling Road, Basking Ridge.
Local libraries hosting the bins include the Bound Brook Memorial Library, Bridgewater Library, Manville Library, Mary Jacobs Memorial Library (Rocky Hill), North Plainfield Library, Peapack-Gladstone Library, Somerville Public Library, Warren Township Library and Watchung Library.
Towns that have BOBO Fridays bins in their municipal buildings are Bedminster, Bound Brook, Franklin, Green Brook, North Plainfield and Raritan.
The usual third-Friday collection is being moved to the fourth Friday this month, as most county and municipal offices are closed April 18 for Good Friday.
Even if you miss one of the monthly collection dates, the blue BOBO bins are available every day, so donations may be dropped off at any time during regular business hours at all locations.
Canned or boxed food items are accepted. For ideas about healthy foods to donate, go to http://bit.ly/FoodPantryDonations. The monthly drop-off program has collected more than 31,000 pounds of donations since it began in July 2010.
Look for the blue BOBO Fridays bins at these county locations: Somerset County Administration Building, 20 Grove St., Somerville; Park Commission Headquarters, 355 Milltown Road, Bridgewater; Lord Stirling Stable, 256 S. Maple Ave., Basking Ridge; and Environmental Education Center, 190 Lord Stirling Road, Basking Ridge.
Local libraries hosting the bins include the Bound Brook Memorial Library, Bridgewater Library, Manville Library, Mary Jacobs Memorial Library (Rocky Hill), North Plainfield Library, Peapack-Gladstone Library, Somerville Public Library, Warren Township Library and Watchung Library.
Towns that have BOBO Fridays bins in their municipal buildings are Bedminster, Bound Brook, Franklin, Green Brook, North Plainfield and Raritan.
The usual third-Friday collection is being moved to the fourth Friday this month, as most county and municipal offices are closed April 18 for Good Friday.
Even if you miss one of the monthly collection dates, the blue BOBO bins are available every day, so donations may be dropped off at any time during regular business hours at all locations.
Thursday, April 10, 2014
ACA Enrollment Help Continues at Bridgewater Library
The Affordable Care Act (ACA) is in place, having taken effect January 1, 2014. People who have begun but not finished the medical insurance enrollment process may still be looking for assistance. The Bridgewater Library, a part of the Somerset County Library System (SCLS) continues to host enrollment assistance sessions for individuals, families and small business owners through Wednesday, April 30, 2014.
The scheduled days and times are:
• Wednesdays, 3:30 pm – 8:00 pm
• Saturdays, 10:30 am to 4:00 pm
The Bridgewater Library is located at 1 Vogt Drive, Bridgewater, NJ. Further information is available at 908-526-4016 ext. 105.
The enrollment assistance programs are being offered for free to all Somerset County residents. Partnering with CognoSante, on behalf of the US Department of Health, SCLS is offering this service to help local residents in obtaining the health care insurance coverage and information they may need.
Applicants will need to attest to their inability to complete the application process through HealthCare.gov, CuidadoDeSalud.gov, the Health Insurance Marketplace Call Center, the State Medicaid Agency or the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) Agency. The following documents are needed for applicants in order to complete the enrollment process:
• Current healthcare insurance (if applicable) and policy numbers
• Information about health care coverage available through current jobs
• Social security numbers (or documentation for legal immigrants)
• Employer and income information verification for every member of household requiring coverage (pay stubs or W-2 forms are acceptable)
“We recognized a need for assistance in navigating the ACA application process as it can be confusing. By partnering with CognoSante, we are happy to provide this service,” noted Mun Hwa Chen, Head of Adult Services.
Questions? Call SCLS at (908)526-4016 extension 105 or visit the website at http://www.sclsnj.org. The Somerset County Library System has branches in Bridgewater, Bound Brook, Hillsborough, Manville, at the Mary Jacobs Library in Rocky Hill, North Plainfield, Peapack & Gladstone, Somerville, Warren Township and Watchung.
The scheduled days and times are:
• Wednesdays, 3:30 pm – 8:00 pm
• Saturdays, 10:30 am to 4:00 pm
The Bridgewater Library is located at 1 Vogt Drive, Bridgewater, NJ. Further information is available at 908-526-4016 ext. 105.
The enrollment assistance programs are being offered for free to all Somerset County residents. Partnering with CognoSante, on behalf of the US Department of Health, SCLS is offering this service to help local residents in obtaining the health care insurance coverage and information they may need.
Applicants will need to attest to their inability to complete the application process through HealthCare.gov, CuidadoDeSalud.gov, the Health Insurance Marketplace Call Center, the State Medicaid Agency or the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) Agency. The following documents are needed for applicants in order to complete the enrollment process:
• Current healthcare insurance (if applicable) and policy numbers
• Information about health care coverage available through current jobs
• Social security numbers (or documentation for legal immigrants)
• Employer and income information verification for every member of household requiring coverage (pay stubs or W-2 forms are acceptable)
“We recognized a need for assistance in navigating the ACA application process as it can be confusing. By partnering with CognoSante, we are happy to provide this service,” noted Mun Hwa Chen, Head of Adult Services.
Questions? Call SCLS at (908)526-4016 extension 105 or visit the website at http://www.sclsnj.org. The Somerset County Library System has branches in Bridgewater, Bound Brook, Hillsborough, Manville, at the Mary Jacobs Library in Rocky Hill, North Plainfield, Peapack & Gladstone, Somerville, Warren Township and Watchung.
Friday, April 4, 2014
Residents Invited to Displays, Programs to Celebrate County Government Month
Somerset County Freeholder Director Patrick Scaglione invites residents to learn about Somerset County through informational displays and activities at various county locations during National County Government Month in April.
Somerset County will join county governments nationwide in celebrating National County Government Month to raise public awareness and understanding about county government. This year’s theme is “Ready and Resilient Counties-Prepare, Respond, Thrive."
“We look forward each year to providing opportunities for our residents to learn about the many programs and services Somerset County offers,” said Freeholder Scaglione. “We hope residents will take advantage of some of the events and will pick up literature.”
Somerset County has been participating in National County Government events since its inception in 1991.
An information display hosted by the Somerset County Board of Freeholders/Public Information Office with literature from many county divisions will be available in the lobby of the Somerset County Bridgewater Library at 1 Vogt Drive from Saturday, April 5, to Saturday, April 12. Residents are invited to help themselves to materials. Call (908) 526-4016 for library hours or visit www.somerset.lib.nj.us/locationlist.html. Contact Joanne Vuoso of the Somerset County Public Information Office for information at (908) 231-7020 or vuoso@co.somerset.nj.us.
Somerset County freeholders are looking forward to meeting and talking with residents at the Library display table as follows: Freeholder Peter Palmer will be on hand Monday, April 7, from 1 to 4 p.m. and Freeholder Patricia Walsh on Tuesday, April 8, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Read More
Somerset County will join county governments nationwide in celebrating National County Government Month to raise public awareness and understanding about county government. This year’s theme is “Ready and Resilient Counties-Prepare, Respond, Thrive."
“We look forward each year to providing opportunities for our residents to learn about the many programs and services Somerset County offers,” said Freeholder Scaglione. “We hope residents will take advantage of some of the events and will pick up literature.”
Somerset County has been participating in National County Government events since its inception in 1991.
An information display hosted by the Somerset County Board of Freeholders/Public Information Office with literature from many county divisions will be available in the lobby of the Somerset County Bridgewater Library at 1 Vogt Drive from Saturday, April 5, to Saturday, April 12. Residents are invited to help themselves to materials. Call (908) 526-4016 for library hours or visit www.somerset.lib.nj.us/locationlist.html. Contact Joanne Vuoso of the Somerset County Public Information Office for information at (908) 231-7020 or vuoso@co.somerset.nj.us.
Somerset County freeholders are looking forward to meeting and talking with residents at the Library display table as follows: Freeholder Peter Palmer will be on hand Monday, April 7, from 1 to 4 p.m. and Freeholder Patricia Walsh on Tuesday, April 8, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Read More
Tuesday, March 18, 2014
Libraries Show What’s Growing in Somerset County
Agriculture plays an important role in Somerset County’s history. Even as the area has become increasingly suburbanized, over 8,000 acres of farmland have been preserved in the County, sometimes within steps of a subdivision.
To celebrate and recognize the role of agriculture during March, the Somerset County Agriculture Development Board (SCADB) is showing tools and artifacts used in farming, at several Somerset County Library System Branches (SCLS). Displays are now on view at the Bound Brook Memorial, Bridgewater and Manville Public Libraries through March 31. The Bound Brook Memorial Library will host a children’s event, “Fun in Farming” at 7 pm on March 27. Freeholder Mark Caliguire will be the guest reader during storytime, along with other activities.
“The Somerset County Agricultural Development Board (SCADB) is very excited to be working with the Somerset County Library System to show the extent and importance of agriculture in our County. We hope the public will learn about this very important industry through our displays and events in honor of National Agriculture Day,” Mark W. Kirby chair of the SCADB notes.
Questions? Call SCLS at (908) 526-4016 or visit the website at http://www.sclsnj.org. The Somerset County Library System has branches in Bridgewater, Bound Brook, Hillsborough, Manville, at the Mary Jacobs Library in Rocky Hill, North Plainfield, Peapack & Gladstone, Somerville, Warren Township and Watchung.
To celebrate and recognize the role of agriculture during March, the Somerset County Agriculture Development Board (SCADB) is showing tools and artifacts used in farming, at several Somerset County Library System Branches (SCLS). Displays are now on view at the Bound Brook Memorial, Bridgewater and Manville Public Libraries through March 31. The Bound Brook Memorial Library will host a children’s event, “Fun in Farming” at 7 pm on March 27. Freeholder Mark Caliguire will be the guest reader during storytime, along with other activities.
“The Somerset County Agricultural Development Board (SCADB) is very excited to be working with the Somerset County Library System to show the extent and importance of agriculture in our County. We hope the public will learn about this very important industry through our displays and events in honor of National Agriculture Day,” Mark W. Kirby chair of the SCADB notes.
Questions? Call SCLS at (908) 526-4016 or visit the website at http://www.sclsnj.org. The Somerset County Library System has branches in Bridgewater, Bound Brook, Hillsborough, Manville, at the Mary Jacobs Library in Rocky Hill, North Plainfield, Peapack & Gladstone, Somerville, Warren Township and Watchung.
Friday, March 14, 2014
Donate to 'BOBO Fridays' Food Drive Friday, March 21
The next "Buy One, Bring One" (BOBO) collection of food for Somerset County families and individuals in need will be held Friday, March 21.
"If you're grocery shopping this weekend, please consider buying an extra item or two for the BOBO Fridays drop-off," said Freeholder Patricia Walsh, who spearheaded the program. "Employees and visitors to various county, municipal and library locations can drop off non-perishables in any of the blue BOBO Fridays bins."
Canned or boxed food items are accepted. For ideas about healthy foods to donate, go to http://bit.ly/
"If you're grocery shopping this weekend, please consider buying an extra item or two for the BOBO Fridays drop-off," said Freeholder Patricia Walsh, who spearheaded the program. "Employees and visitors to various county, municipal and library locations can drop off non-perishables in any of the blue BOBO Fridays bins."
Canned or boxed food items are accepted. For ideas about healthy foods to donate, go to http://bit.ly/
The monthly drop-off program has collected more than 15 tons of donations since it began in July 2010.
Look for the blue BOBO Fridays bins at these county locations: Somerset County Administration Building, 20 Grove St., Somerville; Park Commission Headquarters, 355 Milltown Road, Bridgewater; Lord Stirling Stable, 256 S. Maple Ave., Basking Ridge; and Environmental Education Center, 190 Lord Stirling Road, Basking Ridge.
Local libraries hosting the bins include the Bound Brook Memorial Library, Bridgewater Library, Manville Library, Mary Jacobs Memorial Library (Rocky Hill), North Plainfield Library, Peapack-Gladstone Library, Somerville Public Library, Warren Township Library and Watchung Library.
Towns that have BOBO Fridays bins in their municipal buildings are Bedminster, Bound Brook, Franklin, Green Brook, North Plainfield and Raritan.
Although the targeted collection schedule is the third Friday of every month, the bins are available every day, so donations may be dropped off at any time during regular business hours at all locations.
Look for the blue BOBO Fridays bins at these county locations: Somerset County Administration Building, 20 Grove St., Somerville; Park Commission Headquarters, 355 Milltown Road, Bridgewater; Lord Stirling Stable, 256 S. Maple Ave., Basking Ridge; and Environmental Education Center, 190 Lord Stirling Road, Basking Ridge.
Local libraries hosting the bins include the Bound Brook Memorial Library, Bridgewater Library, Manville Library, Mary Jacobs Memorial Library (Rocky Hill), North Plainfield Library, Peapack-Gladstone Library, Somerville Public Library, Warren Township Library and Watchung Library.
Towns that have BOBO Fridays bins in their municipal buildings are Bedminster, Bound Brook, Franklin, Green Brook, North Plainfield and Raritan.
Although the targeted collection schedule is the third Friday of every month, the bins are available every day, so donations may be dropped off at any time during regular business hours at all locations.
Monday, March 3, 2014
Delayed Opening at All SCLS Branches Today, Monday, 3/3/14
Due to poor weather conditions, all ten branches of the Somerset County Library System (SCLS) will open late today, Monday, March 3, 2014. The branches will open at 11 am today.
Please call the local branch and visit the library’s website at http://www.sclsnj.org for additional information. The Somerset County Library System has branches in Bridgewater, Bound Brook, Hillsborough, Manville, at the Mary Jacobs Library in Rocky Hill, North Plainfield, Peapack & Gladstone, Somerville, Warren Township and Watchung.
Please call the local branch and visit the library’s website at http://www.sclsnj.org for additional information. The Somerset County Library System has branches in Bridgewater, Bound Brook, Hillsborough, Manville, at the Mary Jacobs Library in Rocky Hill, North Plainfield, Peapack & Gladstone, Somerville, Warren Township and Watchung.
Friday, February 28, 2014
Reaching Our Patrons
Somerset County Library System (SCLS) is emphasizing the convenience of email notices as it discontinues an obsolete and expensive telephone notification system and tries to wean patrons away from getting their notices by US Mail. The cost-saving and efficiency changes will take effect on April 1.
Why are they making the change? “Everyone knows how postage rates keep climbing,” said Library Director Brian Auger. “But sending paper notices also requires more staff handling to ensure that customers have enough time to pick up their holds. Email notices go out automatically,” he added.
The twenty-year-old telephone notification system was a cost-saving innovation when it was introduced as an alternative to mailing notices. Now, with so many patrons choosing emails, it has become a target for cost cutting because fewer and fewer people use it and it costs some $1,000 a month regardless of use.
“While we know there are some customers who value the service, we just can’t justify the high costs it entails,” said Auger. “We’re confident that most will easily make the switch to email notices. We will accommodate those who cannot through paper notices.”
Those getting the Library’s email notices will not only get quick notification of when their holds are ready for pickup, but will also get friendly reminders BEFORE their materials are due. Patrons can often simply renew them on the spot, as long as others aren't waiting.
To help persuade people to make the switch to email notices, the Library will have a random drawing on April 15 for a Kindle Fire. Anyone with an email address on file with the Library will be eligible to win.
Questions? Call SCLS at (908) 526-4016 or visit the website at http://www.sclsnj.org. The Somerset County Library System has branches in Bridgewater, Bound Brook, Hillsborough, Manville, at the Mary Jacobs Library in Rocky Hill, North Plainfield, Peapack & Gladstone, Somerville, Warren Township and Watchung.
Tuesday, February 25, 2014
The Affordable Care Act (ACA) is in place, having taken effect January 1, 2014. Those who do not purchase health insurance by March 31, 2014 will be subject to a financial penalty. The Somerset County Library System (SCLS) continues to host information and enrollment assistance sessions for individuals, families and small business owners at all ten branches through at least March, 2014.
The times, dates, and branch location information is as follows:
• Bound Brook Library
Thursdays, 3:30 PM – 8:00 PM
• Bridgewater Library
Tuesdays, 3:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Wednesdays, 3:30 PM – 8:00 PM
Saturdays, 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
• Hillsborough Library
Saturdays, 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
• Manville Library
Mondays, 3:30 PM – 8:00 PM
• Mary Jacobs Library
Thursdays, 3:30 PM – 8:00 PM
• Peapack Gladstone Library
1st Saturday of the month, 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM
3rd Wednesday of the month, 5:30 PM – 8:30 PM
• Somerville Library
3/11/2014, 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
• Warren Library
Monday, 3/3/14 3:30 PM – 8:00 PM
Tuesday, 3/11/14 4:00 PM – 8:00 pm
If there is an enrollment extension, Monday, 4/7/14 3:30 PM – 8:00 PM
The enrollment assistance programs are being offered for free to all Somerset County residents. Partnering with CognoSante, on behalf of the US Department of Health, SCLS is offering this service to help local residents in obtaining the health care insurance coverage and information they may need.
Information that applicants will need to bring in order to complete the enrollment process includes:
• Current healthcare insurance (if applicable) and policy numbers
• Information about health care coverage available through current jobs
• Social security numbers (or documentation for legal immigrants)
• Household income
• Employer and income information verification for every member of household
requiring coverage (pay stubs or W-2 forms are acceptable)
“We recognized a need for navigating through the ACA process as it is often confusing. By partnering with CognoSante, we are happy to provide this service,” noted Mun Hwa Chen, head of adult services.
Patrons with further questions can call SCLS at (908)526-4016 extension 105 or visit the website at http://www.sclsnj.org. The Somerset County Library System has branches in Bridgewater, Bound Brook, Hillsborough, Manville, at the Mary Jacobs Library in Rocky Hill, North Plainfield, Peapack & Gladstone, Somerville, Warren Township and Watchung.
The times, dates, and branch location information is as follows:
• Bound Brook Library
Thursdays, 3:30 PM – 8:00 PM
• Bridgewater Library
Tuesdays, 3:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Wednesdays, 3:30 PM – 8:00 PM
Saturdays, 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
• Hillsborough Library
Saturdays, 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
• Manville Library
Mondays, 3:30 PM – 8:00 PM
• Mary Jacobs Library
Thursdays, 3:30 PM – 8:00 PM
• Peapack Gladstone Library
1st Saturday of the month, 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM
3rd Wednesday of the month, 5:30 PM – 8:30 PM
• Somerville Library
3/11/2014, 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
• Warren Library
Monday, 3/3/14 3:30 PM – 8:00 PM
Tuesday, 3/11/14 4:00 PM – 8:00 pm
If there is an enrollment extension, Monday, 4/7/14 3:30 PM – 8:00 PM
The enrollment assistance programs are being offered for free to all Somerset County residents. Partnering with CognoSante, on behalf of the US Department of Health, SCLS is offering this service to help local residents in obtaining the health care insurance coverage and information they may need.
Information that applicants will need to bring in order to complete the enrollment process includes:
• Current healthcare insurance (if applicable) and policy numbers
• Information about health care coverage available through current jobs
• Social security numbers (or documentation for legal immigrants)
• Household income
• Employer and income information verification for every member of household
requiring coverage (pay stubs or W-2 forms are acceptable)
“We recognized a need for navigating through the ACA process as it is often confusing. By partnering with CognoSante, we are happy to provide this service,” noted Mun Hwa Chen, head of adult services.
Patrons with further questions can call SCLS at (908)526-4016 extension 105 or visit the website at http://www.sclsnj.org. The Somerset County Library System has branches in Bridgewater, Bound Brook, Hillsborough, Manville, at the Mary Jacobs Library in Rocky Hill, North Plainfield, Peapack & Gladstone, Somerville, Warren Township and Watchung.
Friday, February 21, 2014
Leverage
One dictionary definition of “leverage” is to use something to maximum advantage. Somerset County Library System (SCLS) recently added tow software enhancements that leverage its investment in equipment and databases – making each stretch further for less.
With Windows XP’s imminent obsolescence, the Library’s choice was to either replace 150 computers or switch to an operating system that would work with the PCs it already has. SCLS selected Open Sense Solutions and its Groovix desktop, based on Linux, to bridge the gap. Before Groovix, customers frequently complained of slow machines that required frequent patches and updates. They now have computers that run swiftly and trouble-free. Moreover, every PC offers access to the entire Web as well as a suite of productivity software fully compatible with Microsoft® Office. The staff love the fact that the PCs update and turn themselves on and off automatically. When demand for PCs is especially heavy at a branch, the system can also take reservations and manage users’ time.
A second example of using something to maximum advantage is with the many licensed databases SCLS offers that index and provide full-text articles from newspapers, journals and magazines. Despite their being the best sources for recent information, databases often go unused by customers who do not know about them or how to use them.
The Library recently added EDS, an overlay to its online catalog that automatically searches these databases at the same time a user is looking for books.
So, someone looking for information about Afghanistan would see the books that SCLS owns as well as articles from newspapers, journals and magazines, most of which can be read online, printed out or emailed to the user. The service is available both in library branches and at home.
“We’re seeing a 75% increase in the use of those databases since we started the service,” said Brian Auger SCLS Director.
With “scope” features similar to those in Amazon and other web retailers (allowing one to select or unselect formats, dates and the like) the service is easy to use and is set as the “default” when using the catalog.
Questions? Call SCLS at (908) 526-4016 ext. 188 or visit the websites at http://somerset.lib.nj.us/newsearch.html for Ebsco or http://sclsnj.org. The Somerset County Library System has branches in Bridgewater, Bound Brook, Hillsborough, Manville, at the Mary Jacobs Library in Rocky Hill, North Plainfield, Peapack & Gladstone, Somerville, Warren Township and Watchung.
New Computer Options at SCLS Branches
Google Chromebooks are now available for use in all branches of the Somerset County Library System (SCLS). These lightweight laptops feature full-sized keyboards and can be used anywhere within a library to browse the Internet or to work on documents.
Anybody with a valid SCLS library card and driver’s license can borrow a Chromebook for four hours at a time (with a renewal if nobody else is waiting for one). While they work best with a user’s Google account, it is not necessary. Work can be saved in the “cloud,” or on a flash drive. Chromebooks offer access to Google Drive, a web-based suite of productivity applications compatible with Microsoft® Office.
“We’re delighted to offer this low-cost approach to computing. They don’t require special furniture, outlets or cabling and can be used anywhere in the library,” said Brian Auger, SCLS Director.
Rich Loomis, Electronic Services Librarian sees additional benefits for patrons. “The Chromebooks were inexpensive to purchase and are dead simple to maintain. They stay secure and update automatically through the Web and you can start using one eight seconds after it is turned on.”
Questions? Call SCLS at (908) 526-4016 ext. 188 or visit the website at http://somerset.lib.nj.us/chromebooks.html. The Somerset County Library System has branches in Bridgewater, Bound Brook, Hillsborough, Manville, at the Mary Jacobs Library in Rocky Hill, North Plainfield, Peapack & Gladstone, Somerville, Warren Township and Watchung.
Anybody with a valid SCLS library card and driver’s license can borrow a Chromebook for four hours at a time (with a renewal if nobody else is waiting for one). While they work best with a user’s Google account, it is not necessary. Work can be saved in the “cloud,” or on a flash drive. Chromebooks offer access to Google Drive, a web-based suite of productivity applications compatible with Microsoft® Office.
“We’re delighted to offer this low-cost approach to computing. They don’t require special furniture, outlets or cabling and can be used anywhere in the library,” said Brian Auger, SCLS Director.
Rich Loomis, Electronic Services Librarian sees additional benefits for patrons. “The Chromebooks were inexpensive to purchase and are dead simple to maintain. They stay secure and update automatically through the Web and you can start using one eight seconds after it is turned on.”
Questions? Call SCLS at (908) 526-4016 ext. 188 or visit the website at http://somerset.lib.nj.us/chromebooks.html. The Somerset County Library System has branches in Bridgewater, Bound Brook, Hillsborough, Manville, at the Mary Jacobs Library in Rocky Hill, North Plainfield, Peapack & Gladstone, Somerville, Warren Township and Watchung.
Tuesday, February 18, 2014
All SCLS Branches Have a Delayed Opening On Tuesday, February 18 Due to Weather
Due to poor weather conditions, all ten branches of the Somerset County Library System (SCLS) will open late, today, Tuesday, February 18, 2014. The branches will open at 12 noon.
Please call the local branch and visit the library’s website at http://www.sclsnj.org for additional information. The Somerset County Library System has branches in Bridgewater, Bound Brook, Hillsborough, Manville, at the Mary Jacobs Library in Rocky Hill, North Plainfield, Peapack & Gladstone, Somerville, Warren Township and Watchung.
Please call the local branch and visit the library’s website at http://www.sclsnj.org for additional information. The Somerset County Library System has branches in Bridgewater, Bound Brook, Hillsborough, Manville, at the Mary Jacobs Library in Rocky Hill, North Plainfield, Peapack & Gladstone, Somerville, Warren Township and Watchung.
Friday, February 14, 2014
All SCLS Branches Have a Delayed Opening on Friday, February 14 Due to Weather
Due to poor weather conditions, all ten branches of the Somerset County Library System (SCLS) will open late, today, Friday, February 14, 2014. The branches will open at 12 noon.
Please call the local branch and visit the library’s website at http://www.sclsnj.org for additional information. The Somerset County Library System has branches in Bridgewater, Bound Brook, Hillsborough, Manville, at the Mary Jacobs Library in Rocky Hill, North Plainfield, Peapack & Gladstone, Somerville, Warren Township and Watchung.
Please call the local branch and visit the library’s website at http://www.sclsnj.org for additional information. The Somerset County Library System has branches in Bridgewater, Bound Brook, Hillsborough, Manville, at the Mary Jacobs Library in Rocky Hill, North Plainfield, Peapack & Gladstone, Somerville, Warren Township and Watchung.
Thursday, February 13, 2014
All SCLS Branches Are Closed, Thursday, February 13
Due to poor weather conditions, all ten branches of the Somerset County Library System (SCLS) are closed today, Thursday, February 13, 2014.
Please call the local branch and visit the library’s website at http://www.sclsnj.org for additional information. The Somerset County Library System has branches in Bridgewater, Bound Brook, Hillsborough, Manville, at the Mary Jacobs Library in Rocky Hill, North Plainfield, Peapack & Gladstone, Somerville, Warren Township and Watchung.
Wednesday, February 12, 2014
Donate to 'BOBO Fridays' Food Drive - Feb. 21
The next "Buy One, Bring One" (BOBO) collection of food for Somerset County families and individuals in need will be held Friday, Feb. 21.
"While you're stocking up at home for the next snowstorm, please consider buying an extra item or two for the BOBO Fridays drop-off," said Freeholder Patricia Walsh, who spearheaded the program. "Employees and visitors to various county, municipal and library locations can drop off non-perishables in any of the blue BOBO Fridays bins."
Canned or boxed food items are accepted. For ideas about healthy foods to donate, go to http://bit.ly/
Look for the blue BOBO Fridays bins at these county locations: Somerset County Administration Building, 20 Grove St., Somerville; Park Commission Headquarters, 355 Milltown Road, Bridgewater; Lord Stirling Stable, 256 S. Maple Ave., Basking Ridge; and Environmental Education Center, 190 Lord Stirling Road, Basking Ridge.
Local libraries hosting the bins include the Bound Brook Memorial Library, Bridgewater Library, Manville Library, Mary Jacobs Memorial Library (Rocky Hill), North Plainfield Library, Peapack-Gladstone Library, Somerville Public Library, Warren Township Library and Watchung Library.
Towns that have BOBO Fridays bins in their municipal buildings are Bedminster, Bound Brook, Franklin, Green Brook, North Plainfield and Raritan.
Although the targeted collection schedule is the third Friday of every month, the bins are available every day, so donations may be dropped off at any time during regular business hours at all locations.
"While you're stocking up at home for the next snowstorm, please consider buying an extra item or two for the BOBO Fridays drop-off," said Freeholder Patricia Walsh, who spearheaded the program. "Employees and visitors to various county, municipal and library locations can drop off non-perishables in any of the blue BOBO Fridays bins."
Canned or boxed food items are accepted. For ideas about healthy foods to donate, go to http://bit.ly/
Look for the blue BOBO Fridays bins at these county locations: Somerset County Administration Building, 20 Grove St., Somerville; Park Commission Headquarters, 355 Milltown Road, Bridgewater; Lord Stirling Stable, 256 S. Maple Ave., Basking Ridge; and Environmental Education Center, 190 Lord Stirling Road, Basking Ridge.
Local libraries hosting the bins include the Bound Brook Memorial Library, Bridgewater Library, Manville Library, Mary Jacobs Memorial Library (Rocky Hill), North Plainfield Library, Peapack-Gladstone Library, Somerville Public Library, Warren Township Library and Watchung Library.
Towns that have BOBO Fridays bins in their municipal buildings are Bedminster, Bound Brook, Franklin, Green Brook, North Plainfield and Raritan.
Although the targeted collection schedule is the third Friday of every month, the bins are available every day, so donations may be dropped off at any time during regular business hours at all locations.
Wednesday, February 5, 2014
All SCLS Branches Have Delayed Opening On Wednesday, February 5 Due to Weather
Due to poor weather conditions, all ten branches of the Somerset County Library System (SCLS) will open late, today, Wednesday, February 5, 2014. The branches are due to open at 5 pm. SCLS is scheduled to return to normal hours on Thursday, February 6, 2014.
Please call the local branch and visit the library’s website at http://www.sclsnj.org for additional information. The Somerset County Library System has branches in Bridgewater, Bound Brook, Hillsborough, Manville, at the Mary Jacobs Library in Rocky Hill, North Plainfield, Peapack & Gladstone, Somerville, Warren Township and Watchung.
Please call the local branch and visit the library’s website at http://www.sclsnj.org for additional information. The Somerset County Library System has branches in Bridgewater, Bound Brook, Hillsborough, Manville, at the Mary Jacobs Library in Rocky Hill, North Plainfield, Peapack & Gladstone, Somerville, Warren Township and Watchung.
Monday, February 3, 2014
All SCLS Branches Have Delayed Opening On Monday, February 3 Due to Weather
Due to poor weather conditions, all ten branches of the Somerset County Library System (SCLS) will open late, today, Monday, February 3, 2014. The branches are due to open at 5 pm. SCLS is scheduled to return to normal hours on Tuesday, February 4, 2014.
Please call the local branch and visit the library’s website at http://www.sclsnj.org for additional information. The Somerset County Library System has branches in Bridgewater, Bound Brook, Hillsborough, Manville, at the Mary Jacobs Library in Rocky Hill, North Plainfield, Peapack & Gladstone, Somerville, Warren Township and Watchung.
Please call the local branch and visit the library’s website at http://www.sclsnj.org for additional information. The Somerset County Library System has branches in Bridgewater, Bound Brook, Hillsborough, Manville, at the Mary Jacobs Library in Rocky Hill, North Plainfield, Peapack & Gladstone, Somerville, Warren Township and Watchung.
Wednesday, January 22, 2014
All SCLS Branches Have Delayed Opening On Wednesday, January 22 Due to Weather
Due to poor weather conditions, all ten branches of the Somerset County Library System (SCLS) will open late, Wednesday, January 22 at 1 pm.
Please call the local branch and visit the library’s website at http://www.sclsnj.org for additional information. The Somerset County Library System has branches in Bridgewater, Bound Brook, Hillsborough, Manville, at the Mary Jacobs Library in Rocky Hill, North Plainfield, Peapack & Gladstone, Somerville, Warren Township and Watchung.
Please call the local branch and visit the library’s website at http://www.sclsnj.org for additional information. The Somerset County Library System has branches in Bridgewater, Bound Brook, Hillsborough, Manville, at the Mary Jacobs Library in Rocky Hill, North Plainfield, Peapack & Gladstone, Somerville, Warren Township and Watchung.
Tuesday, January 21, 2014
All SCLS Branches Will Close Early On Tuesday, January 21 Due to Weather
Due to ongoing poor weather conditions and forecasts, all branches of the Somerset County Library System (SCLS) will close today, Tuesday, January 21 at 12 noon. Check the library’s website or call your local branch concerning hours of operation on Wednesday, January 21.
Please call the local branch and visit the library’s website at http://www.sclsnj.org for additional information. The Somerset County Library System has branches in Bridgewater, Bound Brook, Hillsborough, Manville, at the Mary Jacobs Library in Rocky Hill, North Plainfield, Peapack & Gladstone, Somerville, Warren Township and Watchung.
Please call the local branch and visit the library’s website at http://www.sclsnj.org for additional information. The Somerset County Library System has branches in Bridgewater, Bound Brook, Hillsborough, Manville, at the Mary Jacobs Library in Rocky Hill, North Plainfield, Peapack & Gladstone, Somerville, Warren Township and Watchung.
Tuesday, January 14, 2014
ACA Information and Help at SCLS Continues
The Affordable Care Act (ACA) is in place, having taken effect January 1, 2014. Those who do not purchase health insurance by March 31, 2014 will be subject to a financial penalty. The Somerset County Library System (SCLS) continues to host information and enrollment assistance sessions for individuals, families and small business owners at all ten branches through at least March, 2014.
The times and branch location information is as follows:
• Bound Brook Library
Thursdays, 3:30 PM – 8:00 PM
Saturdays, 10:30 AM – 4:00 PM
• Bridgewater Library
Tuesdays, 3:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Wednesdays, 3:30 PM – 8:00 PM
Saturdays, 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
• Hillsborough Library
Saturdays, 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
• Manville Library
Mondays, 3:30 PM – 8:00 PM
Saturdays, 10:30 AM – 4:00 PM
• Mary Jacobs Library
Thursdays, 3:30 PM – 8:00 PM
• North Plainfield Library
Saturdays, 10:30 AM – 4:00 PM
• Peapack Gladstone Library
1st Saturday of the month, 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM
3rd Wednesday of the month, 5:30 PM – 8:30 PM
• Somerville Library
1/14/2014, 3:00 PM – 6:30 PM
2/11/2014, 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
3/11/2014, 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
• Warren Library
2/3/14, 2/19/14, 3/3/14, 3/19/14,:30 PM – 8:00 PM
3/11/14, 4:00 PM – 8:00 pm
• Watchung Library
Fridays, 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
The enrollment assistance programs are being offered for free to all Somerset County residents. Partnering with CognoSante, on behalf of the US Department of Health, SCLS is offering this service to help local residents in obtaining the health care insurance coverage and information they may need.
Information that applicants will need to bring in order to complete the enrollment process includes:
• Current healthcare insurance (if applicable) and policy numbers
• Information about health care coverage available through current jobs
• Social security numbers (or documentation for legal immigrants)
• Household income
• Employer and income information verification for every member of household requiring coverage (pay stubs or W-2 forms are acceptable)
“We recognized a need for navigating through the ACA process as it is often confusing. By partnering with CognoSante, we are happy to provide this service,” noted Mun Hwa Chen, head of adult services.
Patrons with further questions can call SCLS at (908)526-4016 extension 105 or visit the website at http://www.sclsnj.org. The Somerset County Library System has branches in Bridgewater, Bound Brook, Hillsborough, Manville, at the Mary Jacobs Library in Rocky Hill, North Plainfield, Peapack & Gladstone, Somerville, Warren Township and Watchung.
The times and branch location information is as follows:
• Bound Brook Library
Thursdays, 3:30 PM – 8:00 PM
Saturdays, 10:30 AM – 4:00 PM
• Bridgewater Library
Tuesdays, 3:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Wednesdays, 3:30 PM – 8:00 PM
Saturdays, 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
• Hillsborough Library
Saturdays, 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
• Manville Library
Mondays, 3:30 PM – 8:00 PM
Saturdays, 10:30 AM – 4:00 PM
• Mary Jacobs Library
Thursdays, 3:30 PM – 8:00 PM
• North Plainfield Library
Saturdays, 10:30 AM – 4:00 PM
• Peapack Gladstone Library
1st Saturday of the month, 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM
3rd Wednesday of the month, 5:30 PM – 8:30 PM
• Somerville Library
1/14/2014, 3:00 PM – 6:30 PM
2/11/2014, 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
3/11/2014, 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
• Warren Library
2/3/14, 2/19/14, 3/3/14, 3/19/14,:30 PM – 8:00 PM
3/11/14, 4:00 PM – 8:00 pm
• Watchung Library
Fridays, 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
The enrollment assistance programs are being offered for free to all Somerset County residents. Partnering with CognoSante, on behalf of the US Department of Health, SCLS is offering this service to help local residents in obtaining the health care insurance coverage and information they may need.
Information that applicants will need to bring in order to complete the enrollment process includes:
• Current healthcare insurance (if applicable) and policy numbers
• Information about health care coverage available through current jobs
• Social security numbers (or documentation for legal immigrants)
• Household income
• Employer and income information verification for every member of household requiring coverage (pay stubs or W-2 forms are acceptable)
“We recognized a need for navigating through the ACA process as it is often confusing. By partnering with CognoSante, we are happy to provide this service,” noted Mun Hwa Chen, head of adult services.
Patrons with further questions can call SCLS at (908)526-4016 extension 105 or visit the website at http://www.sclsnj.org. The Somerset County Library System has branches in Bridgewater, Bound Brook, Hillsborough, Manville, at the Mary Jacobs Library in Rocky Hill, North Plainfield, Peapack & Gladstone, Somerville, Warren Township and Watchung.
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