One of the topics that came up in the discussion was library services during inclement weather. Who knew that we might all get to put this into play so soon. Providing the electricity to the libraries continues to run we can probably expect to see members coming to charge phones and check internet next week if the storm predicted happens with the energy expected. It's time to make sure you have enough leases on your wireless routers. Do you have extra powerstrips? Is anyone lucky enough to have a generator?

This weekend I plan to go out and get an expanded stock of power strips in anticipation.

FYI
There is an app promoted in the state of Massachusetts (and I suspect more widely) called "Ping4alerts!" that gives an automatic alert (a ping) when events like thunderstorms, tornados etc. are imminent.

• Public safety and local event information wherever you go.
• Deals and offers from nearby merchants wherever you are.
• All based on your location and user preferences.

It also has a function that provides local resources for food, auto repair and all those things that people need in distress. Did I mention it's free?

Best, Mare

It's now up and running. The more I work on this site the more I realize that rather than being a vague and slightly squishy topic, it is really a concrete and substantial umbrella for many topics related to working with the public and staff with compassion and attention.