Suggestion Box Responses

Submitted 9-10-2009
Library:  Fletcher Library at the West campus
Topic:  Hours

Suggestion  

I am very upset and disappointed that the library hours have been cut.  I was surprised when I heard the announcement go off at 9:45 tonight! This is a university and we as students need that extra hour to study and work on school projects! I originally thought that closing at 11pm was already kind of early to begin with-but now it has gotten ridiculous! Please, I am pleading that the university at the west campus leave the closing time as it was at 11pm.

Response

We are sorry that our new hours are an inconvenience to you. We reluctantly reduced our hours primarily because of staff reductions. Our reduced staffing lead us to examine where we could make changes to our hours that would allow us to use our remaining staff most effectively. We noted that during the last hour we were opened last year, from 10 to 11, we had very few students or other people in the library. As a result, we decided to close an hour earlier.

We are monitoring the comments and complaints we receive about our reduced hours. If there appears to be a need that cannot be addressed other than to keep the building open and staffed, we will reconsider our decision.  The Interim Director of the Fletcher Library Dennis Isbell will be meeting with Provost Langland near the end of the semester to evaluate the earlier closing hour and determine what we will do in the spring semester. Your note will be taken into consideration and we thank you for taking the time to communicate with us. 
 

Submitted 9-7-2009
Library:  All
Topic:  Research Resources

Suggestion 

I think it is appalling that our university library system canceled its subscription to the Encyclopedia Britannica, only the first and most used resource in the English language. What are we supposed to do? Look in Wikipedia? The library system has been guiding us away from Wikipedia and towards Britannica for years. Appalling reversal, appalling cancellation.

Response

Thank you for your feedback regarding the cancellation of Britannica Online.  This was one of many resources that were impacted by last fall's ASU Libraries Collection Realignment project.  We had to make the very difficult decision to eliminate several resources in light of the impact of annual inflation, a considerably weakened dollar, and funding reductions.  A full explanation of the project was provided by a letter from Associate University Librarian Vicki Coleman.

We have many other research resources available, both online and in print.  I recommend that if you need a good reference source to provide you with background information to use one that is tied to your particular subject area.  If you contact Ask a Librarian one of our expert librarians will be happy to help you locate one (or more) that will best suit your needs.

Submitted 9-2-2009
Library:  Tempe campus
Topic:  Library Express

Suggestion

Pick Up Notices Respective To Library Express Are Quite Vague.  I received this notice today, a Wednesday, and upon reading the line regarding Library Express and delivery was struck by how vague the information is:  "A Pick Up Location of Library Express in Hayden Library indicates the items are ready for Tempe delivery next Tuesday or Thursday."  

You might change it to read: "...for delivery on the next Tuesday or Thursday following receipt of this notice"  Otherwise, I'm under the impression that you might deliver the item next Tuesday or next Thursday, or you might not deliver it at all

Response

Thanks for taking the time to share this feedback with us.  We agree that the original wording could indeed cause confusion.  We've changed the wording for now to read "If Library Express delivery was selected, the items will be delivered on Tuesday or Thursday by the date listed below".  We hope this will be clearer for all of our Library Express customers.

Submitted 8-24-2009
Library:  All
Topic:  Media Booking

Suggestion

It would be helpful if there were a way online to request a change in dates for already booked media, as opposed to cancelling the booking and putting in a substitute set of dates.

I have tried leaving a phone message, as the only option that I could find, but have had no success at having that work.

Response

Thank you for submitting this suggestion.  Because you took the time to do so, we found out that the phone numbers listed on the Media Booking page were incorrect, which is why that option wasn't helpful to you.  We have edited the page and updated all the phone numbers for the campus libraries so that these requests are handled in a timely fashion.  We are very sorry for the inconvenience this error has caused you, and any others who may have tried to call the incorrect numbers listed.

Although it is not currently possible for us to offer a way to adjust dates online, we will certainly keep your suggestion in mind when we make future upgrades to our system. 

Submitted 8-17-2009
Library:  Music
Topic:  Collection

Suggestion

Some of the CD's in the Music Library have a lot of scratches, so much that they cannot be played. The library should take them to a professional CD repair company that can remove all the scratches so the students can listen to the recordings.

Response

Thank you for bringing this to our attention. In future, please bring any damaged CDs to the Music Library circulation desk so that we may make note of the problem and withdraw the CD for eventual replacement or repair as warranted. Until such time, there are a number of streaming music resources provided by the ASU Libraries (Naxos, Classical Music Library, DRAM, etc.) which may be used until the replacement CD has found its way to our collections. We appreciate your input and, in future, please do not hesitate for bring any other concerns to our attention.

Submitted 5-6-2009
Library:  Architecture Library
Topic: Printing

Suggestion

The printers at the Architecture Library keep printing docs with missing letters and punctuation!!! I have told them several times and it still is an issue - how can we print out assignments down there?!?!?!?!?

Response

Thank you for reporting this to us.  We are submitting a service request to the Library's System Help Desk, who will investigate the problem.  In the meantime you may be able to print successfully in one of student computer labs in the College of Design. 

Submitted 5-1-2009
Library:  Hayden Library
Topic: Facilities

Suggestion

Men restrooms in Hayden Library are not at all well-maintained, esp the ones on floors from 2 to 4, never clean!

Response

Thank you for reporting this to us.  We have forwarded this to ASU's Facilities Management Department, who supervises the cleaning of these facilities.

Submitted 4-27-2009
Library:  All
Topic: Services

Suggestion

The "chat with a librarian" function/option/tool is the GREATEST THING EVER! Thank you!!!!!!

Response

Thanks for sharing your positive feedback on the "chat" portion of "Ask a Librarian".  Our librarians working that service are very dedicated and are committed to providing the best service possible to our students.

Submitted 4-17-2009
Library:  Hayden
Topic: Services

Suggestion

Why have you moved the reference desk? Those people at the Circulation Desk don't know anything! You are not supporting students!!!

Response

It is true that we closed the old location for the reference desk, but the same reference/information staff members are still available all the same hours, at a new location:  the Information & Check Out desk.  When you go through the line at that desk, go to the West (left) side of the line to speak to the reference/information staff who will be happy to assist you with your research needs.  As before, if you need further assistance, these staff will refer you to subject specialist librarians who continue to be available by appointment to help with in-depth research and subject-specific questions.

The decision to close the desk mid-semester resulted from staff layoffs and furloughs due to the budget cuts ongoing at ASU.

Again, if your research needs are not able to be immediately met by the information staff members at the desk, you may make an appointment with a subject specialist librarian for a personal research consultation.  If you would like to make a research assistance appointment, please ask for a referral form at the Information/Circulation Desk.

Submitted 2-9-2009
Library:  Noble
Topic: Computers

Suggestion

Unreserved computers in science library which might get used (and mostly they do get used) for non-academic work, have citrix web client installed and ppl can therefore use ASU apps from there comfortably, which is good! But irony is that reservation computers in noble science library do not have this citrix thing installed in them and these systems do not even let user install the same. So even for the urgent academic work (for which this time bounded reservation policy was set I suppose), one has to wait in line or ask ppl using unreserved comps to shift themselves to reservation computers.

Response

Thanks for this suggestion - we think it's a good one!  The Citrix software will be installed on those unreserved computers when they reboot tonight (February 9).  Let us know if you have any problems with them in the future.

Submitted 2-1-2009
Library:  All
Topic: Customer service

Suggestion

I am a sophomore at Arizona State University. I have gotten excellent asssitance from all the Arizona State University libraries, as a journalism mass communication major I have received so much help with my studies in media, and in all my courses. The libraries at Arizona State University are a wonderful resource to me.

Response

Thanks for letting us know about your good experience with our libraries!

Submitted 1-20-2009
Library:  Music
Topic: Web site

Suggestion

I can't seem to find the complete listing of all the resources under the new Music Library website. I'm trying to find JSTOR and I can't seem to find it under the new website.

Response

To find the complete listing of all resources on our web site, click on the "Research Databases" link in the top gray navigation bar or under "Articles" in the left hand navigation listing of links.  You can also bookmark JSTOR directly at this location.

Submitted 1-20-2009
Library:  All
Topic: Web site - Course Reserves

Suggestion

I do not like the new way to find reserves - it used to be that you could search by professor's name, now it's only by course. Bad.

Response

Good news:  If you go to the "Course Reserves" link at the top of the library's web page and choose "For Students" the course reserve search box actually let's you choose between searching by Instructor (professor) or by Course number.  You will need to click on the down arrow at the end of the first box to select from those options.  Please let us know if we can help you find your desired course reserves.

Submitted 11-3-2008
Library:  Downtown
Topic: Computers

Suggestion

This is something that has never been disallowed that I know of. Read on...In so changing your system to disallow users to personalize their information retained in the computer history listing, you are disallowing them the privacy provided by the websites they use. If this was disallowed it would not have been enabled as something for users to seek in the help sections of the computer that is used. If you are disallowing this yourselves, you need to state this in your sections when searching for help, as this is not unlawful where protecting of their information and passwords, etc. Possibly you could only enable another to see what websites they are using and not enable other users to see what everyone has been using. Thank you.

Response

Thank you for sharing your concerns with us.  Because our computers are shared by numerous individuals, for security and privacy concerns all of the computers are set up to not retain user's private and personal information.  If you would like to express specific concerns about the computer set up in the Downtown campus Library/Information Commons, please visit the service desk and an member of the UTO staff will be happy to discuss them with you.

Submitted 11-3-2008
Library:  Architecture
Topic: Hours

Suggestion

Please adjust the hours of the MRC on the answering machine.

Response

Thank you for taking the time to let us know of this concern.  We have updated the outgoing message on the phone for the Materials Resource Center (480-965-1130) to ensure that they accurately reflect the current hours:

To schedule an appointment outside the posted hours, please call James Allen II at 480-965-6370 or E-Mail at allen007@asu.edu.

Submitted 10-29-2008
Library:  Hayden Library
Topic: Computer Workstations

Suggestion 

I just arrived at ASU and I have to say the library is quite impressive. I did notice, however, that the computers on the upper floors of Hayden are available by reservation only. While I can appreciate the need to keep the computers open, it would be tremendously helpful to have a terminal just to check the library catalog without having to go to the first floor to reserve it. 

It seems to me the primary use of the computers on the upper floors would be to access the stacks, not do major research projects. Having even one computer dedicated to searching just the library stacks would be a real time saver for people like me who write the call number down wrong or can't find something and need to confirm the location of the volume.

Response 

Thank you for your suggestion regarding the computers in the Hayden Library. On the second and third levels the workstations are currently "student" computers. They do not require any reservation, but require an ASURITE ID and password to log on. On the third floor in the Government Documents area there are four computers that are "public" and do require a reservation, which can be made quickly and easily in that area. Just go to the Information Desk and ring the doorbell if no one is there (during the day).  

We've gotten feedback from students who really appreciate having computers on the upper floors to do their work on. There is so much traffic downstairs that they appreciate having computer workstations available in the quieter areas of the library. That being said, we will see if we if it's feasible to possibly add an "Express" workstation on those levels to aid library users who need to look up a call number quickly. 

Submitted 10-29-2008
Library:  All
Topic: Copying and Printing

Suggestion 

Please add information on this web page related to color printing options for students:  http://lib.asu.edu/help/printcopy

Response

Thank you for pointing out that information was missing from our web site.  We have just edited the page to reflect the following information about color printing and copying:

• Color printing:  The Downtown Phoenix campus Library is the only library currently offering color printing ($0.45/page).  All the other print stations in the remaining libraries are black and white ($0.08/page).
• Color copying:  The following libraries offer color copying ($0.45/page):  Downtown Phoenix campus Library, Architecture and Environmental Design Library (Tempe campus), Hayden Library (Tempe campus), and Noble Science and Engineering Library (Tempe campus)

Submitted 10-29-2008
Library:  Music Library
Topic: Course Reserves

Suggestion 

I was wanting to know why the library allows professors to put so many things on reserve. At the beginning of the semester there is a lot of reserves that are put on reserve for a particular professor (an average of 230 items per class) and at the end of the semester only 16% of that has been checked out twice or more, which leaves 84% only checked out once or never at all. That leaves students complaining about the fact that materials are never available. Also, why do two copies of a certain item need to be on reserve for a class?

Response

Thank you for your comments and concerns about course reserves in the Music Library. The library makes every effort to support the curricular needs of the faculty and students at the School of Music and course reserves serve an important function of this role. Depending on the nature of the course it may indeed be necessary to place a large number of items on reserve – especially given the exigencies of copyright laws. It should be noted, however, that reserve items are still available for limited use on demand by anyone – unless they are being used by someone for a course assignment. 

With respect to your observation about “two copies of a certain items” being placed on reserve, such practices are in response to demand, especially if two different courses have placed similar requests for a reserve item.   We hope that this clarifies our reserve practices in the Music Library and we are sorry if this has caused any inconvenience on your part.

Submitted 10-28-2008
Library: Architecture Library
Topic: Collection

Suggestion

I needed a journal (architect) at the aed library - it was not on the shelf, but they eventually found it in some guy's desk.  Could we please get them on the shelves ASAP?

Response 

Thank you for your comment about the difficulty finding this new journal.  The journal copy in question was in the middle of being processed and the library staff member was working out a problem relating to checking it in.  Otherwise, as a rule, the journals are processed and placed on the periodical shelves within a day (or less) of receipt. Although we make every effort to process these items as they arrive in the library, sometimes we encounter difficulties.  We will endeavor in continuing to process these periodical issues as promptly as possible.  So if you don't find a journal on the shelf, please come to the Information Desk of the library and we will do our best to locate it as quickly as possible.  

Submitted 10-26-2008
Library: All
Topic: Electronic Resources

Suggestion

I've been having a lot of trouble accessing electronic journals from off-campus for the last 3-4 months. They almost never load, just say they are transferring the data, but nothing ever comes up. I am an ASU adjunct and need access to these journals for a contract job I am doing for my school at ASU. I'm located out of the country, so it's a bit frustrating that the access is so difficult. Perhaps it's my internet connection, but I have no trouble with other websites.

Response

We're very sorry you are experiencing difficulty accessing these essential resources.  We don't have a record of a pattern of difficulty accessing all of our electronic journals this semester.  We'd really like to help you resolve this issue, but need some additional information.  Could you please report this problem the next time you experience it to our Ask a Librarian service?  It would be helpful to include the name of the resource/journal, and any error message you receive. Thanks!

Submitted 10-26-2008
Library: All
Topic: Copying and Printing

Suggestion

Printing and copying at the library should enable the functions of printing of copying on both sides of the paper.

Response

We are pleased to let you know that double sided printing is available on all the copiers in the ASU Libraries.  Look for the button labelled "Two-Sided" on the initial screen after you swipe your SunCard.  Unfortunately our printers do not currently offer this ability, but we will forward the request to the vendor who services the printers.

Submitted 10-20-2008
Library: Architecture and Environmental Design
Topic: Web Site - LibGuides

Suggestion

Why are the Arch libs subject guides blank... it is the only one of all ...

Response

Thank you for your question about subject guides (LibGuides) for the subjects covered by the Architecture and Environmental Design Library.  The librarian for those subject areas is in the process of working on a set of guides, and we hope to have them done before the end of the semester.

• Architecture
• Landscape Architecture
• Design
• Planning

Submitted 10-17-2008
Library: All
Topic: Policies

Suggestion

I was just notified that I need to return a book because some one else put out recall notice. Since I am currently working on what is an extensive essay for the entire semester, it seems kind of taxing to have to return books that I have checked out, to complete my project. I will probably have to purchase the book in question so that I am certain to have when I begin citing those pages. What is the sense in using the library if this is a common practice? If you allow people to check books out, they should be able to retain them until they are finished, otherwise specify that they are not books to check out. This policy is really cumbersome for a researcher and sadly In will avoid using this library for any research in the future.

Response

We very much understand that you are frustrated with having the material you are using recalled.  "Recall" is a service that helps us ensure that materials are shared equitably among our very large university community.  You can use checked out materials for as long as you need them (by renewing online) unless/until someone else needs them.  They will recall the material through our catalog -- and they then can use the book(s) until someone else initiates a recall.  So our best advice to you in this situation is to return the book, but then recall it immediatey through the catalog.  The new user will only have a short loan period, and then will have to return the material so you can check it out again.

Submitted 10-17-2008
Library: All
Topic: Web Site

Suggestion

To contribute to the realignment process, I have just gone through the list of journals, etc. proposed for cancellation. For whatever reasons the comment option did not work well at all. It was extremekly slow posting the comment (assumming it did get posted) and did not return my browser (IE) to the list on which I was working. This should be fixed

Response 

We thank you very much for taking the time to review the realignment list, and to comment.  We are aware of the issues with the commenting system, which were caused by the volume of comments we received.  Most of the time, the comment actually did go through and was saved, despite the system displaying the error message.   We have been working with the system, however, and believe that it is much improved now.

If you have difficulty leaving a comment, please email your comments directly to Jeanne Richardson@asu.edu, Chief Officer of Collections and Scholarly Communication.

Submitted 10-11-2008
Library: Hayden Library
Topic: Facilities

Suggestion

Tall chairs required at Hayden library:  Noble Library does have tall chairs, esp. for using the reserved computers placed at a height. (Why the height anyway, I ask...) Though Hayden library has some of its computers placed at a similar strange height, it wouldn't have been much of a problem if it had similar tall chairs too.

 I only wish to suggest you to buy tall chairs to let people these tall desks and comps, if you cannot bring those down to regular height...

Response

Thank you for your suggestion.  We do have bar stools in Hayden Library for the computers on the Upper Concourse that are on a higher shelf than the others.  However, we have identified some on Level 1 that do not have these stools.  We will look for some lower tables to replace the higher ones, so that computer users can sit in a normal chair and be comfortable. 

Submitted 10-8-2008
Library: All
Topic: Student Employment

Suggestion

Students who work in any of the ASU libraries should get a longer loan period on the items they check out.

Response

We think this is an intriguing suggestion for a unique perk of student emloyment.  We'll investigate to see how feasible this is.  Thanks!

Submitted 9-25-2008
Library: Downtown Phoenix campus Library
Topic: Policies

Suggestion

Today is Thursday September 25, there are students eating lunch at the computers, why?

I reported this to a librarian and he told me, so what? He said there was nothing he could do about it, why? It will be upsetting when these computers are removed due to food being all over them, it is a lunchroom down here, why? Is it not important to ASU how the library computers are treated, does ASU intend to constantly replace computers, ASU has that much money, 5 min ago there was someone eating an eggsalad sand next to me, now someone else is eating another kind of sandwich....what is the deal? You guys dont care about the computers and the library? ASU has an excess of funds?

Response

Thank you for expressing your concerns with us.  The staff member should have been more responsive to your complaint when you made it in person. We will follow-up with him.

Submitted 9-25-2008
Library: Hayden Library
Topic: Environment

Suggestion

How about hiring someone to enforce the rules on the "silent" floors and areas of the library.  It is impossible to find a quiet place to study in a library which resembles a zoo.  It's a joke. 

Response

We're sorry that you've experienced disruption in areas of the library zoned as "silent."  If you come to a service point at the time the disruption happens and let us know (or call the Circulation desk at 480-965-3605) we will be happy to speak with the individuals causing the disruption and help them find another location in the library to move to where conversation is welcomed.

Submitted 9-24-2008
Library: Hayden Library / Music Library
Topic: Collection

Suggestion

Some of the video/DVD material that I need for class preparation and lectures is housed at Hayden rather than the Music Library (i.e., the Music Library does not have copies of these). I was wondering why all the M and ML catalog numbers aren't in the Music Library.  I recently discovered that the Music Library doesn't even have the complete series of the JVC Video Anthology of World Music and Dance. It would be most helpful to remedy this situation.

Response

Thank you for your comment about the video collection.  We are aware of this situation and are currently working on finding a resolution to address this problem. 

Submitted 9-24-2008
Library: Hayden Library
Topic: Customer Service

Suggestion

I have been working on a research project throughtout the summer and have spent hundreds of hours researching at the Government Documents section of the library. The assistance and support of the staff at the library was superb. Without the help of Kathleen Jones, Brad, Dan and Shelley, the project would have been far more daunting and challenging. You guys made it fun to do research and you all were a genuine pleasure to have met. Thank you.

Response

Thank you so much for letting us know about your positive experience with Government Documents.  They are indeed very helpful, and can be fun too!

Submitted 9-23-2008
Library: Noble Library
Topic: Facilities

Suggestion

On two separate occasions, all three men's restrooms at Noble Science library were overflowing with paper and in some cases badly backed up. The information desk was helpful enough, but there was only so much they could do about it.  

Response

Thank you very much for sending in your concerns about the restrooms in the Noble Science Library.  We've sent your note to the Head of the Noble Science and Engineering Library so she can be better aware of the problem, and will consult with the janitorial staff about this.   They do work very hard to keep up with the demand of cleaning the restrooms in the building.

Submitted 9-5-2008
Library: Fletcher Library at the West campus
Topic: Web site

Suggestion

I can no longer find your lists of award winners.  It would be great to have those back or made more obvious.  I even tried using the search box.

Response

Thanks for your message.  We're glad that you found that page to be useful, and although it has not been migrated yet to our new web site, it is on the list for to be transferred in the future.  In the meantime, please let us know if we can help you find any particular title or locate an alternate list of specific award winning books, films or other media. 

Submitted 8-25-2008
Library: Hayden
Topic: Online catalog

Suggestion

Why would the catalog say a dissertation was in both Storage Luhrs Reading Room and Storage Stacks? Isn't that the same thing? This is extremely confusing. And why would an ASU dissertation be in storage anyway?

Response

These are two different copies of one dissertation.  "Storage Luhrs Reading Room" refers to a copy that is held by Archives and Special Collections, and can be retrieved and viewed at the Luhrs Reading Room.  The "Storage Stacks" copy refers to a circulating copy of the dissertation.  It can be requested from Storage and checked out and taken home.  In addition, many dissertations are available online to ASU students, faculty and researchers via the research database "Disserations and Theses @ Arizona State University"

Submitted 8-21-2008
Library: All
Topic: Computers

Suggestion

Why is craigslist completely blocked?

Response

Our reservation and express computers have some content filters on them, and our filter pulls from a community-built blacklist.  Occasionally sites are added that shouldn't necessarily be and we can make an exception.  Please consult library staff at your library location to make a request for a site to be unblocked. 

Submitted 8-13-2008
Library: Hayden
Topic: Online catalog

Suggestion

I think it is really silly that you can pay online and that it takes DAYS for the records to show that it is paid. What's the point of having this all set up electronically if the library doesn't update is patron records?? It's not like I'm paying by check at the bursar's office or something...it's all on the ASU system. You have to print out a receipt and show it to circulation. It's very 1982.

Response

We are aware of the frustrating situation with the time lapse between paying fines and having it show up on your account.  The library's Informatics and Cyberinfrastructure services department continues to work with the managers of ASU's systems to find ways to streamline processes like these.  We are hopeful we will be able to implement solutions in the future to improve this situation.

Submitted 6-9-2008
Library: Hayden
Topic: Customer Service

Suggestion

The customer service I received on the telephone from a Hayden library representative was excellent. I called the reference desk for information on the Access Disability Accommodations, the representative was extremely helpful and informative in answering my questions on this topic. It is always a personal pleasure to receive assistance from the staff of the Arizona State University libraries.

Response

Thank you for taking the time to share your positive experience with our ADA services staff with us.  We think they do a great job too.

Submitted 4-8-2008, 7:31 AM
Library: All
Topic: Online catalog - Request

Suggestion

I was trying to request a book that is checked out but there was no 'request' button. Why wasn't it there?

Response

Sometimes books in our collections are checked out in order to be lent to other libraries (via Interlibrary Loan). When that happens, the book is off site (potentially in another country) and is not able to be recalled by our local users. So the 'request' button isn't displayed, because the item isn't able to be requested at that time. If you ever have any questions about this, please don't hesitate to contact the circulation desk at any of our libraries. The Hayden Library circulation desk is available 24 hours a day, 5 days a week at 480-965-3605.

Submitted 4-3-2008, 9:15 PM
Library: All
Topic: Procedures

Suggestion

I get a lot of notices from ILL and holds, and I think that paperless statements would not only be better for the environment, but I'd probably get it a lot faster. Is ASU doing anything along these lines?

Response

We have great news: the libraries just recently moved to having paperless statements be our default, and will be sending notices to our users' ASU email accounts. To ensure that we have your correct email address, please log into your library account by going to the library web site at www.asu.edu/lib (note: web site url is now http://lib.asu.edu/) and choosing "My Library Account" from the accounts pull down menu. There will be an add/modify email button in the middle of the screen.

Submitted 3-7-2008, 10:25 AM
Library: Hayden
Topic: Customer Service

Suggestion

I am an undergraduate graduating this semester after four years. I would like to tell you how great the ADA staff are in helping me with all my computer problems. They have helped me with extremely important library work such as finding databases for my research, using interlibrary loan, recalling books online, helping me find libarary books, movies, magazines and much more. They have helped me with numerous items related to myasu and interactive services especially helping me fix my email problems. I have had tons of email experiences. They have helped me expand Myspace. They have helped with tons of problems I did not understand with Kurzweil 3000. They have helped me with printing difficulties on Blackboard and certain websites. Just yesterday I was browsing the internet and I opened a screen which had no way of exiting using the mouse, but she knew to hold alt + F4 to exit when nothing else would work. The staff here are alway nice, caring, and socialable. They put forth all their knowledge and experience from working in ADA and their knowledge and experiences outside their ADA work. They perform above and beyond their job titles. They have reached out for me. I am really happy to have worked with Jodie, Marcia, Chris and his brother Jon for the last two years. I really feel that they deserve something special.

Response

Thank you for taking the time to share with us your positive experience with our ADA staff. We think they're terrific too.

Submitted 2-18-2008, 10:45 AM
Library: Noble
Topic: Computers

Suggestion

the computers on the second floor by the conference rooms are way too restricted. Not only could i not get to wikipedia but i was also just denied to go to the "chat with the librarian" feature to get it cleared. sorry about the complaint but it is kind of ridiculous.

Response

The computers by the book shelves on the second and third floors of the Noble Library have indeed been restricted to access only to the library online catalog and research databases. This decision was made after many complaints from students and faculty about being unable to access those computers when they needed to quickly look up a call number of article citation to locate an item in the shelf area.

We recognize that this causes these computers to be severely limited in utility for work beyond the quick look up functionality. We do, however, offer ten additional computers on the second floor in the quiet study room, and over forty computers on the first floor of Noble that have full functionality, with no restrictions placed on them.

Submitted 2-01-2008, 3:41PM
Library: Hayden
Topic: Circulation

Suggestion

It would be great if the library would allow check outs of headphones for online classes. It is frustrating to know you have them but not be able to check them out.

Response

It's true that the library has a few headphones for students to use when watching videos placed on course reserve. Unfortunately at the current time we don't have enough to circulate for other purposes, but we're going to explore the possiblity of adding some for general use. Thanks for sending us the suggestion!

Submitted 1-31-2008, 6:47M
Library: All
Topic: Policies

Suggestion

Reduce the recall period. Two weeks is too long, especially for frequently-used books, and especially during the academic year. One week is more than sufficient--if a patron really thinks they need it for longer than that, they can use the copier.

Response

Thank you for taking the time to send us your feedback on our recall policy. We frequently evaluate policies such as this to ensure we are meeting the needs of our users. We hear both sides of this issue, with some people saying that two weeks is too long, but others thinks it's not quite long enough. Currently we have a significant number of users who have opted not to select their library notifications by email, and as a result we need to keep the two week timeframe to allow for delivery of printed notifications. We will continue to monitor the situation and may adjust this time period in the future.

Submitted 1-16-2008
Library: Music Library
Topic: Environment

Suggestion

The lighting in east side of the music library is very dim, it would be nice to have it briter, espeically the area around the tv's.

Response

Thank you for getting in touch with us about the lighting in the east section of the Music Library. At the present time the East Wing is being repainted and we have selected colors that should be more light reflective. In addition, we are investigating possible lighting solutions with the hope of resolving this problem in the future.

Submitted 1-14-2008
Library: Tempe campus libraries
Topic: Collection

Suggestion

Could we please get an additional book drop on campus, preferably located near a street so that students living off-campus could return books without having to park far away and then lug them all the way to Hayden? I find this consistently irritating as I have numerous heavy books that I struggle to carry with me throughout the day until I can finally make my way over to Hayden.

Library Response

Thank you for taking time to contact us. We do agree that a drive-up bookdrop would be helpful but since there isn’t one at this time, books that have been checked out at Hayden Library (or any ASU libraries) may be returned to any of the other libraries (Hayden, Science, Architecture, Music or Law) on the Tempe campus or the other ASU campus libraries (West, Downtown and Polytechnic). In fact the Downtown Phoenix campus has a drive up book return located outside the south entrance of the University Center building  on Polk Street that is available to return materials all day and all night.

On the Tempe campus, there are a couple of book drops that are closer to parking than Hayden. The Law Library (on the corner of McAlister and Orange) has an exterior book drop outside its front doors which can be used when the library is closed. When the library is open, they must be returned at the circulation desk. While there is no general parking immediately in front of the library, there is disabled parking in Lot 41 - northwest of the Law Library, and it is just across the street from the Rural Road parking structure, and is east of the metered parking by the bookstore.

The Architecture Library is located on the 1st floor of the north wing of the College of Architecture, by the intersection of University and Forest Mall. The bookdrop is on the wall just outside of the library doors on the 1st floor of the north wing of the College of Architecture. The building is open from 6 am to 10 pm.

Also, as always, our ADA Staff is glad to be of assistance to our students with disabilities. If help is needed in returning your books, please call (480) 965-0573 to arrange for assistance.

Submitted 1-14-2008 -1-15-2008
Library: Music
Topic: Collection

Suggestion/Comment

Several students have emailed their concerns regarding the LP collection in the Music Library:

I am DMA music student and I just wanted to tell you that I was suprised when I realized that SLP's in music library were removed.I personaly use them a lot in the library because I do not have gramophon at home. I do not check them out of library, however I really fell great loss by not having opportunituy to listen to the recordings whenever I need. Could you plase reconsider your decision upon this metter.

I have heard that the library was going to get rid of all LPs. I hope that this is not the case. There is a great deal of trombone literature that has only been recorded on LP - taking this away would take away an important resource.

Would you please keep the LP's in the music library. They are in good use. Most do not check them out however because we do not own record players. They are a valuable resource that can be listened to in the music library. Thank you very much

Thank you very much for your concerns about the Music Library’s LP collection. The library is not getting rid of its vinyl records, rather, a large number of them are being transferred to the ASU Libraries Remote Storage Facility to help free up much needed shelf space in the musical scores area. The records that have been removed have not been checked out in over five years. Very soon, the library will be shifting its collected editions, historical sets, and monuments of music (scores) to the shelves where the LPs once resided.

Please note that the LPs that have been placed in storage are still available for use. When searching the online catalog, all transferred LPs will have the location “STORAGE STACKS” indicated before the call number. To request an LP from storage, click on the “Place Request” button on the search results screen. At the present time, the amount of time to deliver a “Storage LP” to the Music Library will be 1-2 business days. We anticipate that this will take less time in the very near future. Over time the library will be purchasing CDs to duplicate its LP holdings. In addition to its CD holdings, the ASU libraries provide content to the standard classical repertoire via such sound databases as Naxos Music Library (over 285,000 tracks) and Classical Music Library (over 50,000 recordings). Please rest assured that the LPs are not being discarded - they are simply being relocated.

Submitted 11-27-2007, 8:24AM
Library: All
Topic: Promotional Materials

Suggestion/Comment

I just picked up the new bookmark at the reference desk. I did not know that Midnight was spelled mignight. You might want to check spellcheck.

Library Response

Thank you so much for alerting us to this error! Our faces are quite red! We are pulling the bookmarks with the spelling error and are printing corrected ones immediately.

Submitted 11-27-2007, 8:24AM
Library: All
Topic: Library Personnel

Suggestion Comment

At one of the libraries, a particular employee seems to always be there. Me and my friends always comment on it, and I think ASU is awful for taking advantage of him. Aren't there laws about how long someone can work?

Library Response

Thank you very much for expressing concerns about our dedicated library employees. Employees of the ASU Libraries typically work a 40 hour work week. We assure you that employees are neither required nor asked to work around the clock. We appreciate your concern.

Submitted 10-27-2007, 10:24AM
Library: All
Topic: Web Site

Suggestion/Comment

There should be an obvious link on the main page to a page of online dictionaries and encyclopedias in various languages.

Library Response

Thank you very much for your suggestion. We are continually trying to improve our site, so we appreciate your comments. Please keep in mind that due to the sheer number of resources we offer, we are not able to highlight each and every one. We will, however, continue to work toward increased personalization which will eventually create direct connections to the resources that matter most to you.

Submitted 11-4-2007, 12:43PM
Library: Hayden
Topic: Computing

Suggestion/Comment

During peak usage hours, say 11:00 to 3:00-ish it is nearly impossible to get on a computer to check the catalog. Would it be possible to have a 'catalog only' computer on each floor of the stacks?

Library Response

Thank you very much for your feedback about our computing availability. We will explore the options to see how we can streamline the process of call number look ups. In the meantime we do have three "Express Computers" available located adjacent to the Circulation/Check-Out desk that are configured to turn over more quickly than our regular computers.

Submitted 11-4-2007, 12:38PM
Library: Hayden
Topic: Facilities

Suggestion/Comment

Please fix the elevator call buttons on the third floor of hayden

Library Response

We know that the elevators in Hayden have had reliability problems this fall, and we regret any inconvenience they have caused our library users. The good news is that campus facilities is planning to overhaul the elevators in the spring semester, and one of the items to be addressed is ensuring the call buttons are lit when pressed so we know that the elevator has been called. We also look forward to increased reliability and response time when the overhaul is complete. We appreciate everyone's patience while we await these improvements.

Submitted 10-1-2007, 6:00PM
Library: Hayden
Topic: Customer Service

Suggestion/Comment

Well this would just be repeating myself time and over again,If the administration has no intention of adding the sun card readers to the vending machines,could they atleast bring the change machines back?

Library Response

We do understand the value of having Sun Card readers on the vending machines and apologize for the delay in getting them installed. They were requested last spring, but have not yet been installed. We have submitted two additional inquiries since the beginning of the semester asking about them, and are waiting a response from the Sun Card office. We are hopeful that they will be installed soon.

Submitted 9-13-2007, 1:22PM
Library: Hayden
Topic: Customer Service

Suggestion/Comment

I was visiting the periodicals area downstairs in Hayden library last Friday and I was shocked to find that I couldn't get anyone to help me at the counter. Why? The only individual working in that area was back in the office and looked like they may have been sleeping. Fortunately I was able to find what I needed without further assistance. However, I am completely stunned that a member of the library staff would be sleeping at their desk in plain view of a public counter leaving no one to help customers. I don't think I have to say that this gives a very unprofessional appearance.

Library Response

We are very sorry that you didn't receive the help you needed at the library. We have checked in with the supervisor of the area and she reported that she was in the area but engrossed in her work with her head down. We have set out a bell on the counter in the periodicals area for people to ring for help when the staff is away from the desk. We hope that will aid you and others to obtain the assistance you need.

Submitted 9-13-2007, 1:22PM
Library: Architecture
Topic: Customer Service

Suggestion/Comment

Would it be possible to have the guys at the Architecture library NOT do work while they're at the desk? It doesn't make me want to go and ask for help. I stood there for a good two minutes, waiting for staff person to do something before they grudgingly looked at me and said "Yes?" Please, be a little professional.

Library Response

We are truly very sorry that you did not receive good service at the AED Library -- and, that you had to wait to be recognized to ask your question.

Our number one rule is to provide service to our students and researchers in a prompt and friendly manner. And, again, please accept our apologies that you did not receive that level of service.

Unfortunately, we frequently have no choice but to bring work to the Circulation desk, given our staffing and work levels. However, we will remind everyone working at the desk to make certain that our students and researchers receive an absolute first priority over any work that we might bring to the Circulation desk.

We very much look forward to seeing you again in the AED Library.

Submitted 9-4-2007, 6:45PM
Library: All
Topic: Library Web Site

Suggestion/Comment

Add an ILL button/link to the homepage, so that we can quickly check on our requests and download received articles.

Library Response

Thank you for taking the time to send in this suggestion regarding the library web site. We've forwarded it to our web developers for their consideration. In the meantime, there is a shortcut to Interlibrary Loan. On the left hand side of the screen click on the little "plus sign / +" next to Services to expand that menu. You will then see an "Interlibrary Loan" quick link:

Submitted 8-10-2007, 9:13AM
Library: All
Topic: Online catalog

Suggestion/Comment

If not viewed from the very top of the page it is unclear if the location box is a header for the item below or a footer for the item above.

Libary Response

Thank you for your comment. We are currently working on the catalog display results screens. We are planning on adding book covers and additional graphic elements which will make this display easier to read. Please continue to check back to see our improvements.

Submitted 7-20-2007, 2:08PM
Library: All
Topic: Computers

Suggestion/Comment

I would like to suggest an upgrade to Internet explorer 7 on library computers.

Library Response

Thank you very much for your suggestion. We checked with our systems department about this, and unfortunately IE7 is not compatible with several of our core resources. As a result, we will not be upgrading at this time. But we will continue to evaluate new browsers and upgrade to them when we can.

Submitted 7-17-2007, 2:07PM
Library: Hayden
Topic: Environment

Suggestion/Comment

Cafe plays their music so loud everyone in the group study area can hear it. This is supposed to be a library not a disco! I spoke with a person working at the circulation desk and nothing happened. I and the other people studying pay thousands of dollars a year to attend ASU, and Hayden library, like any other library, should provide us with a quiet distraction free area to study in.

By the time you address this issue it will already be too late for me and the others who have had to suffer with the loud music but I implore you to take action to ensure this does not happen again!

Library Response

Thank you for letting us know about the volume of the music from the café. We do monitor the music level, and we work with the café staff to adjust it when necessary. We have passed this feedback on to the staff in the cafe and expect that they will moderate the volume of the music.

We would like to suggest that there are other study locations within Hayden Library that may be more suitable for quiet study. The Group Study Area, located on the entrance level of the Hayden Library is not a quiet zone. We offer many other quiet study spaces where you should be able to expect a much more tranquil studying atmosphere. These quiet study locations are found on the Lower Level, as well as Levels 1, 2 and 3. Look for the "Yellow" or "Red" traffic light signs for areas that are specifically zoned for "Quiet" or "Silent" study. (You can find them all on the Study Zone Map).

Submitted 7-2-2007, 6:36PM
Library: All
Topic: Copiers

Suggestion/Comment

The new policy that just took effect on Copy Cards today is very inefficent and downright annoying! I didn't have proper change to print my copies (until later). I think it's ridiculous that I was expected to spend a $1 flat ; even though I only needed and wanted to spend the 44 cents for my printouts.

Library Response

Thank you very much for your feedback. We understand that the transition to our new copy system will take some time to adjust to. The copiers in all of our libraries now only accept copy cards, and it is true that there is a $1 minimum deposit on the card. However, any remaining balance will be able to be used on a future visit to our libraries.