Memorial Hall Library, Andover can answer questions from TTY/TDD
Memorial Hall Library can now accept requests for information from patrons with hearing impairments who communicate via a TTY (Teletypewriter) or TDD (Telecommunications Device for the Deaf) without an intermediary such as Mass Relay.
MHL had considered installing a TTY but had not done so because of the space required and the difficulty of infrequent use by 15 different reference librarians. We decided to try software called NexTalk-VM from NXi Communications (www.nxicom.com). NexTalk-VM enables us to receive calls from TTYs and make calls to TTYs from a computer at the reference desk that acts like a text-telephone. The only space requirement is a 4" x 5" modem that accompanies the software.
NexTalk-VM activates automatically when the computer is booted up. When a person with a TTY or TDD calls the dedicated telephone line (978-623-8405), the NexTalk-VM toolbar opens on the monitor and a distinctive sound is heard through the computer speakers. The reference librarian can answer the call via the computer keyboard or let the NexTalk software take a message so that the librarian can return the call when s(he) is available.
MHL has found that NexTalk-VM is a simple and inexpensive means of communicating with people who are hearing disabled, by use of a computer already available at the Reference Desk. For more information, email Ruth Rosensweig (ruthr@mhl.org).
This initiative is part of a two year grant to improve services for people with disabilities from the Institute of Museum and Library Services under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act, as administered by the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners.
Rachelle Carroll is the new LMS of South Elementary School in Andover. She replaces Jeannie Pendergast, who has retired
Chelmsford Public Schools: Renee Peppercorn has taken the position as Elementary Librarian for five Chelmsford Elementary Schools.
The Everett Libraries welcome Kathy Caple, new Children's Librarian at the Shute Memorial Library. Ms. Caple's hours are 1-5 p.m. Monday through Friday and she can be reached at 617-394-2308. We also welcome new part-time employees at the Parlin Library Reference Desk; Maggie McNeely and Kathleen Slipp. Our new staff members bring a number of new and diverse skills with them including training in archives and a working knowledge of Spanish. We are sure to discover other talents.
Shute Memorial Library, Everett, has restored some of the hours lost during the recent state-wide financial crisis. The Adult level will be open mornings at 10 A.M. This will greatly please our faithful patrons who enjoy the quiet time in the morning and find it difficult to fight the heavy afternoon traffic. The Shute Library can be reached at 617-394-2308.
Carol Foster is the new Children's Librarian at the Langley Adams Library in Groveland.
Jim McShane has resigned as the Director of Hamilton-Wenham Public Library. He will direct a library in Connecticut. Shirley Raynard is serving as the Interim Library Director.
Jean Hlady is the new Assistant Director at Saugus Public Library.
Emily Classon is the new Library Director at the Tyngsborough Public Library. She was formerly the Coordinator of Technical Services and Automation at the Pollard Memorial Library in Lowell. She replaces Carol Bacon, who has retired.
Elisabeth Doucett is the new Assistant Director at Lucius Beebe Library, Wakefield.
Dr. Myron Schirer-Suter is the new Director of Library Services at the Jenks Library and Learning Resource Center at Gordon College, Wenham.
