SPRING CLEANING TIME

Library Administrator's Digest, Apr 2004

* Walk around the outside of your library building and inspect all rain gutters, windows, walls and foundation for ice or overall winter damage.

* Check storm windows and determine if they need to be replaced. If your library had storm windows installed 30 years ago, it might be time for more energy efficient units. Hire a firm to clean all exterior windows (especially if you have more than one floor in your building).

* Check all flowerbeds for newly budding spring flowers and mulch accordingly. Rake out dead debris. Plant perennials as needed. Don't forget to clean bird feeders and keep them well stocked.

* Rethink parking lot safety and the need for speed bumps and other traffic control devices. This will also be a good time to check to see if snowplows have plowed away existing speed bumps.

* Determine if your parking lot needs to be relined. Also check with your local community on any crosswalks that may need to be repainted.

* Step back from the front of your library building and eye the landscaping. Are there tall bushes growing in front of the building? Do bushes and trees need pruning?

* Schedule an inspection of the library roof by a reputable roofing firm. This should be done each year after winter, especially if you experience heavy ice and snow.

* Schedule a carpet cleaning for the library during off hours.

* Clean foyer and stairway areas.

* Wash windows or hire an outside firm to wash them.

* Dust off window treatments and if they are old and faded rethink them entirely.

* Keep your eyes open for nesting bees near bike racks and entrances.

* Schedule an inspection of air conditioning units.

* Arrange for lawn maintenance.

* Take photos of your library grounds in the spring to help you get through next winter.

Rural Library Services Newsletter, quoted in Marigold Report, Marigold Library System (AB), February 2004