How do I request a Book Block or STEAM Kit?
Answer
Blocks
As a member of NLLS, your library has the option to request a “block” from us—this is a selection of books that we will temporarily reassign to your library collection, in a record set.
A block can be a single genre or subject, or it can be a mix of materials. Blocks are typically lent out to libraries for 3 months and then returned—unless the member library requests to extend it. There a provisional limit of 2 simultaneous blocks per member library. Books blocks can be requested in full or half blocks, which consist of 20 or 10 items.
When we send you a block, we will include a list of what is in the block, if you would like to track the borrowing history. Because blocks are created upon request—there is little chance of significant accidental overlap with previous blocks.
Based on current usage, we are now offering two types of books blocks: Western and Large Print (Fiction, Non-fiction). Future development will be evaluated based on usage.
Please submit a help desk ticket indicating the type of block you’d like to request, and we will be happy to send it over to you!
Ex)
Block Request: Westerns
Half Block Request: Large Print / General Fiction
Block Request: Large Print / Nonfiction
Kit Bookings
Build-a-Kit, Storywalks, and STEAM Kits
As a member of NLLS, your library has the option to request a “Kit” from us—this is a selection of storywalks, like toys, costumes, and puppets, STEAM resources and other technology to be used for programs, projects, and special events.
Here is what you need to know:
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All of our kits, including our STEAM kits, are now available in one convenient location: the NLLS Kit Bookings tab in the NLLS Libraries Microsoft Team.
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New browsable tabs! You will automatically be brought to STEAM kits, but you can browse and check the availability of other kits - including the ever-popular barcode scanners - by browsing the tabs at the top. If you have a smaller screen, you may need to hit the 3 dots on the right to see all the options you have.
3) The first tab is an availability calendar, which you can use to see upcoming bookings and whether your chosen item is available at the right time. Use the up and down arrows to jump forward or back a week, or click on the date beside them to navigate a whole month at a time.
4) One-stop shopping and booking!
Clicking on a card will take you to the "Request This Item" form, which asks you for all the information Tracy needs to complete your booking. Clicking "Send Request Email" will send the information to the ask@... email for you. NLLS staff will get back to you on that ticket if there are any extra questions, then they'll create a booking you can see in the availability calendar. You are still welcome to send an email request as you have always done, but we're hoping this is more convenient.
Kits are typically lent out to libraries for up to 2 weeks and then returned—unless the member library requests to extend it. There a provisional limit of 2 simultaneous kits per member library.
You can browse our NLLS Kit Collection HERE.