Updated website keeps community connected: Library leans on technology during COVID-19 health crisis

MILLERTON — Even with its doors closed to prevent the spread of coronavirus, the NorthEast-Millerton Library remains determined to keep the local community connected to its services and to ensure that its patrons have access to information through its newly updated website.

NorthEast-Millerton Library Director Rhiannon Leo-Jameson said library employees have been working on updating the library website in their free time during the last couple months. Though the former website was indeed functional, she noted that it wasn’t very attractive, user-friendly or, most importantly, mobile-friendly.

“Our new site was designed with our patrons in mind,” Leo-Jameson said.

Thought still being updated, patrons might find it easier to access information and links posted on the site. Without having to leave their homes, they can now sign up for a library card online. After signing up, Leo-Jameson said patrons will receive a temporary library card number that will grant them access to some of the library’s digital resources; once their account is verified, they will have full access to all the library’s  resources.

As another added feature, Leo-Jameson shared plans to include information about the North East Historical Society on the newly updated site.

“Since they do not have a site themselves and are housed on the second floor of the library, we often act as an intermediary between them and the public,” Leo-Jameson explained, “so it is a natural progression.”

Following the library’s closure on Tuesday, March 17, to prevent the spread of COVID-19, Leo-Jameson and her employees have been keeping the local community informed and making sure patrons have access to a wide array of information and digital resources. After finding out that James Dean, the creator of the much-loved children’s book series, “Pete the Cat,” created a live story time on Instagram Live, Youth Services Coordinator Kristin McClune posted the information on the library’s social media pages, so young readers could enjoy a special story time from the comfort of their homes.

“It’s a great way to connect with families with something familiar to them in these ever-changing times,” McClune said.

Realizing that not all patrons have access to the internet or use social media, Leo-Jameson said the library plans to update its phone message when there are major changes to the library’s schedule. A sign set in front of the library will also notify patrons of any updates or changes.

For the time being, the library recommends that the public use social media and www.nemillertonlibrary.org to receive the latest library news. The library can be found on Facebook under NorthEast-Millerton Library and on Instagram at nemillertonlibrary.

 

Editor’s note: The Lakeville Journal is providing content related to the coronavirus outbreak for free as a public service to our readers. Please support local journalism by subscribing to The Lakeville Journal, The Millerton News, or TriCornerNews.com or by becoming a contributor to our membership model. Click here for more information.

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