[Publib] Re: Info Desk or Information Commons

[Babel, Elisa A. (DCPL)]

Our information desk is in the middle of the main lobby so patrons see it
first thing when they come in. It's a fixed rectangle shaped desk with a
high countertop. The actual desk surface is lower. There are two hinged
doors that can be pushed in or out.  There's a large blue sign with the word
"Information" on it screwed to the front of the desk.
There are two phones with separate lines and two staff computers. Any
important library and community information (flyers, booklets, postcards,
etc) can be found here. Phone numbers for various offices, divisions, and
branches are kept at the desk too.
The desk is staffed by us librarians on a hourly rotational schedule; each
subject division has its own time slot.
I like working the Information desk because it forces me to know the
library. During the evening, it gets hectic with walk ups and phone calls.
Patrons often confuse the info desk for the circulation desk. (That desk has
its own sign) If there's an event going on in the Great Hall, you get the
best seat in the house!

Elisa Babel, MLS
Adult Librarian
Popular Library Division
Martin Luther King, Jr Memorial Library
901 G St., NW
Washington, DC 20001