New services

CONGRATULATIONS, LIBRARY DIRECTOR ALISA BURCH!

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Library Director Alisa Burch was recently named a Nonprofit Visionary Leader by Louisville Business First in recognition of her outstanding vision and leadership of the Harrison County Public Library.  Burch received her award during the Partners in Philanthropy luncheon and ceremony at the Galt House on August 22, 2023. In attendance were her husband Kevin Burch, mother Christine Pendleton, Library Board President Kathy Crimans, Vice-president Sharon Mathes, Treasurer Derrick Grigsby, IT Head Jessica Stroud and Harrison County Community Foundation Marketing Coordinator Tyler Best.

Burch was nominated by the Harrison County Community Foundation President and CEO Julie Moorman. Burch has a 26-year library career at HCPL and was appointed the library director on January 1, 2019.  She successfully managed the library through the pandemic, created a fine free library and added a Library of Things for checkout. Burch places priority on making the library a welcoming space, collaborates and partners with area businesses and schools, and is currently working on creating a makerspace at the Lanesville branch.

Honorees were asked to give a brief statement about their business vision when receiving their awards.  Burch enthused, “My vision for the Harrison County Public Library is to create welcoming physical and digital spaces where all residents have access to free resources and tools to increase their knowledge; and places that meet the recreational, professional and educational needs of the entire community.”

Meet all thirteen 2023 Nonprofit Visionary Leaders and the Volunteer of the Year who are making Greater Louisville a better place at the Louisville Business First webpage. This is the second year for the awards.

Who’s Awesome! – Julia Phipps

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Congratulations, Julia Phipps!

Julia Phipps, affectionately known by staff as Julie, is HCPL’s first Who’s Awesome! winner. Julia works as a reference assistant and was one of twenty-two staff members nominated in January.

Tiffany Thieneman, public services manager, nominated Julia for the award stating, “Julie was awesome when we had a patron in reference who had a medical issue. Julie’s nursing experience came in handy as she assessed the patron’s condition. Julie stayed calm and was able to provide EMS with information regarding the situation. I was glad Julie was there to help!”

Julia joined the reference staff at Main October 25, 2021.

Each month a winner will be selected by random drawing. A quarterly winner and nominator will receive a small prize in addition to the recognition.

Other staff members nominated in January were Amanda Applegate, Nikki Esarey, Ann Allen, Eden Ransdell, Sandy Harbeson, Melissa Schellenberger, Ann Crecelius, Vee Colantonio, Lynn Hardesty, Bethany Banet, Savannah Wallace, Seren Lindsey, Debbie McClanahan, Steven Schifcar, Liz Dennis, Trevor Smith, Kelly Powell, Alisa Burch, Jessica Stroud, Sarah Dorton and Pat Schwartz.

Article by Alisa Burch, Director

 

 

TALK – Text and Learn for Kindergarten

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TALK is made possible by the Indiana State Library and the Institute of Museum and Library Services.

Harrison County Public Library is excited to provide TALK – Text And Learn for Kindergarten to our residents.  TALK is an early literacy texting program for parents and caregivers of young children.  Diana Lasky of Youth Services stated, “Our director Alisa Burch has always looked for ways to encourage early literacy practices at home.  This is the perfect way to put early literacy tips directly into the hands of all caregivers.  Anyone can use TALK, no library affiliation is required.”

Interested adults may sign up to receive 2 messages per week with fun activities to do at home to help prepare little ones, ages 5 and under, for school success.

To register, simply:

  1.   Text TALK to 75547 or go to TALK
  2.   Provide the child’s birthdate and zip code
  3.   Choose your language: English or Spanish
    (2 children maximum per phone number)

You’re all set!  You may opt out at anytime.

HCPL staff are happy to help if you need assistance with registration.
Feel free to contact the library at 812-738-4110 for assistance or information.

Self-checkout station Corydon branch

Self-checkout station now available at Corydon Branch

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The self-checkout station at the Corydon branch was made possible by a grant from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA).

Self-checkout station at Corydon
Click image to enlarge

Harrison County Public Library installed a user-friendly station near the entrance of the Corydon branch to enable users to check out their own materials.

To check out, simply:

  1. Scan your library card or user barcode in the HCPL app
  2. Scan the HCPL barcode on each item
  3. Scan the QR code provided to print your receipt

You’re all set!

HCPL staff are happy to help if you would like assistance using the self-checkout station, or if you would prefer that they check out your items at the circulation desk.

A few guidelines for using the self-checkout station:

  • You may use only your own card for self check.
  • DVD’s and hotspots must be checked out by staff at the checkout desk.
  • If you have available holds, please see the staff at the checkout desk so that they may pull them and check them out to your account.

Don’t yet have your Harrison County Public Library card? Apply for a library card or renew your existing card online or at your local HCPL branch.

 

HCPL app Kindle Fire Google Play

How to install the new HCPL app on your Kindle Fire tablet

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The following steps will assist HCPL users through the installation of the Google Play Store on Kindle Fire tablets to enable the installation of the free new HCPL app.  The following instructions are adapted from the How To Geek article by Joe Fedewa and Chris Hoffman, updated on

Amazon Fire Tablets restrict users to the Amazon Appstore, but runs on Fire OS, a custom version of the Android operating system. That means that you can install the Play Store to install not only the HCPL app, but all other available Google Play apps as well.

Installing the Google Play Store is simply a matter of downloading and installing a few APK (Android package) files from the Fire tablet itself, and you will be up and running with the Play Store just like your regular Android phone or tablet!

Download the Play Store Files

Before we begin, make sure your Fire Tablet is from 2014 or later. This process may not work with old Kindle Fire tablets as you need to enable “Apps From Unknown Sources.”

First, open the “Settings” app from the “Home” tab on the home screen.

kindle_settings

Now go to “Security & Privacy.”

Select “Apps From Unknown Sources.”

Find “Silk Browser” and then toggle on “Allow From This Source.” This is what will allow us to install an app from outside of the Amazon app store.

With that out of the way, we can start downloading the Play Store files. There are four APK files we will need to get the Play Store up and running, and they’re specific to your Fire Tablet.

To find out which Amazon Fire Tablet model you have, go to Settings > Device Options > About Fire Tablet. You’ll see your “Device Model” name here. To see your Fire OS version, go to Settings > Device Options > System Updates.

With the device model in mind, we can download the appropriate files below. Simply copy and paste the links from the tables below into the Silk Browser on your Amazon Fire tablet. We’re just downloading the files at this point, DON’T OPEN THEM YET.

Google Account Manager

Note: Ignore the message about a newer version being available.

Fire HD 10 (9th Gen, 11th Gen) Google Account Manager v7.1.2
Fire 7 (9th Gen)
Fire HD 8 (8th, 10th Gen)
Fire HD 10 (7th Gen and older) Google Account Manager v5.1
Fire HD 8 (7th Gen and older)
Fire 7 (7th Gen and older)
Fire HD 6
Fire HDX 8.9

Google Services Framework

Fire HD 10 (9th Gen, 11th Gen) Google Services Framework v9-4832352
Fire HD 8 (10th Gen)
Fire 7 (9th Gen) on Fire OS 7
Fire HD 8 (8th Gen) on Fire OS 7
Fire 7 (9th Gen) on Fire OS 6 Google Services Framework v7.1.2
Fire HD 8 (8th Gen) on Fire OS 6
Fire HD 10 (7th Gen and older) Google Services Framework v5.1
Fire HD 8 (7th Gen and older)
Fire 7 (7th Gen and older)
Fire HD 6
Fire HDX 8.9

Google Play Services

Note: On the page for your model, select the most recent version of the APK that is not a “beta.”

Fire HD 10 (9th Gen, 11th Gen) Google Play Services (64-bit ARM, nodpi, Android 9.0+)
Fire HD 8 (10th Gen)
Fire 7 (9th Gen) Google Play Services (32-bit ARM, nodpi, Android 6.0+)
Fire HD 8 (8th Gen) Google Play Services (64-bit ARM, nodpi, Android 6.0+)
Fire HD 10 (7th Gen and older) Google Play Services (32-bit ARM, nodpi, Android 5.0+)
Fire HD 8 (7th Gen and older)
Fire 7 (7th Gen and older)
Fire HD 6
Fire HDX 8.9

Google Play Store

Note: On the page for your model, select the most recent version of the APK that is not a “beta.”

All Models Google Play Store (universal, nodpi)

A tip from Jessica Stroud about downloading the Google Play Store APK file: the July 19, 2022 version of the com.android.vending file would not open, but the July 13, 2022 version of the file could be successfully installed.

Install the Play Store

With all the downloaded APK files to your Amazon Fire Tablet, we can begin installing them one by one. Open the “Files” app from the home screen.

Select “Downloads” from the side menu and switch to the list view for the files. You should see the four files we just downloaded.

It’s important to install these APKs in a specific order. For each APK, follow this process: Tap the file name > select “Continue” > tap the “Install” button. After it installs, tap “Done.” Don’t open the Play Store yet.

Install the files in this order (the file names on your device will be longer):

  1. com.google.android.gsf.login
  2. com.google.android.gsf
  3. com.google.android.gms
  4. com.android.vending

With all the APKs installed, it’s time to reboot the tablet. Hold down the power button and select “Restart.”

After the tablet restarts, you’ll see the Play Store on the home screen. Open it and sign in with your existing Google account. If you do not have a Google [email] account, you will have the option to create one.

Once you’re signed in, you’ll have a functional Google Play Store, just like on any other Android device.

You may experience some problems when trying to use the Play Store right away. The Play Store and Google Play Services will automatically update themselves in the background, so just give it some time. This may take as much as ten minutes.

Download and install the HCPL app

Launch the Play Store app, then search for “Harrison County Public Library”:

hcpl solus app Google Play

HCPL app

HCPL unveils new app

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The HCPL app prioritizes a library user’s needs and places the Harrison County Public Library virtually in their hands. One can quickly see the items that they have checked out or on hold, search the entire online catalog that now includes digital content from OverDrive and hoopla. Library users can view, listen or download titles directly from the app.

The new app offers one-stop access to browsing and registering for library activities for all ages, all HCPL eResources, current HCPL news, and links to social media. The app also features a handy virtual library card to present to library staff when checking out items.

“By using the library app, a person only has to look in one place for everything—they don’t have to go to separate websites or browse multiple apps. The app gives users easy access to HCPL services and resources wherever they are whenever they need them,” said Alisa Burch, Library Director. “If you have a phone or mobile device you can easily borrow eBooks and electronic audiobooks, stream movies and locate and reserve traditional print books and DVDs all from one app.”

If you have a question about the app, please visit www.hcpl.lib.in.us and click on “Contact Us”, or call your local HCPL branch.

Short upgrade could affect access to some services

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At 1:00pm today, an upgrade of HCPL Web Services will take place that will last approximately 5 minutes.

This upgrade is in preparation for valuable new services that HCPL plans to implement soon.

Please note that this short upgrade will possibly affect access to library accounts through the online catalog, access to OverDrive/Libby and Axis360 accounts, as well as logging on to HCPL public computers.

Harrison County Public Library’s hotspot collection grows to meet community need

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HCPL recently added ten AT&T Unite Express 2 mobile hotspots and ten Verizon MiFi 8800L hotspots to the circulating collection. An additional eleven T-Mobile by Sprint hotspots will arrive in the near future.

Hotspots are available to check out at all HCPL locations. If you wish to place a hold on a hotspot to pick up at your branch, you may call and request that our staff place a hold for you or search for the term “hotspot” on HCPL’s online catalog. You will be prompted to enter your library card number, PIN and pickup library, and you will receive a phone call when your hotspot is ready to pick up!

If you do not have a Harrison County Public Library card or your card has expired, you can apply for a card at your local branch or by clicking here.

An adult 18 years of age or older who has a current resident HCPL library card in good standing may check out a hotspot. To view HCPL’s hotspot checkout policy, please click here.

If you have any questions, please contact us.

OverDrive - Databases & Streaming Services

HCPL introduces new databases and streaming services

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Harrison County Public Library recently added more new and exciting subscriptions to its public digital collection. If you do not currently have an HCPL card, or your library card has expired, you may apply online for a Digital Access Card, or apply for/renew a resident library card.

These streaming services and databases are all available via the Libby app from your Libby library Libby library icon, select Extras. Libby is available for free from the Apple Store and Google Play. Click here to access Libby from your favorite web browser.

Download the how-to-access guide
Download the how-to-access guide


CLICK HERE to download a brief step-by-step guide to accessing these streaming services and databases.

New databases

IndieFlix

iNdieFlix streams classic and contemporary features, award-winning shorts, film festival favorites and documentaries from around the world. Explore thought-provoking, well-known and undiscovered content. iNdieFlix works directly with young up-and-coming filmmakers from all walks of life to seasoned professionals paying them for every minute watched.

iNdieFlix tutorial available from HCPL Niche Academy

  • Thousands of full length feature films, shorts, documentaries and series from around the world
  • Diverse voices, pop culture favorites and box office hits
  • Award-winning feature films, documentaries, and shorts
  • Thousands of hours of commercial free programming
  • Academy Award winning animation

Please note that some iNdieFlix content may include mature themes and language.

Qello

Stream the world’s largest collection of on-demand full-length music performances, concert films, and music documentaries. Qello Concerts transforms your connected devices into the ultimate live music concert film experience. Give your favorite headliners a standing ovation from the best seat in the house anywhere, anytime!

Qello tutorial available from HCPL Niche Academy

  • 1000s of concert films and documentaries
  • New concerts added every week
  • Streamed live concerts with major partners
  • Available on all your streaming devices

Please note that some Qello content may include mature themes and language.

Great Courses

The Great Courses Library Collection video streaming service is brought to you by The Great Courses—the leading global media brand for lifelong learning and personal enrichment. This collection includes more than 250 courses, led by the world’s top experts, covering a broad range of subjects, such as science, mathematics, philosophy, history, literature, fine arts and music, travel, business, and personal development.

Great Courses tutorial available from HCPL Niche Academy

  • Over 250 unique courses to capture your curiosity or help you to improve in areas you are passionate about
  • 3,000+ hours of carefully curated and commercial-free, entertaining and engaging content
  • Courses taught by brilliant, award-winning, and trusted experts in their fields
  • Twelve categories for all types of patrons with new content monthly
  • Guidebooks for each course to supplement course material
New streaming services

ArtistWorks

(Available October 22, 2021) ArtistWorks provides players world-class instruction from Grammy Award-winning music professionals. ArtistWorks for Libraries offers users a guided path of video lessons containing everything they need to reach their musical goals. All levels of player are welcome!

ArtistWorks tutorial available from HCPL Niche Academy

  • Blues, Bluegrass, Jazz, Rock, Classical and More
  • Hundreds of hours of high quality video instruction
  • Studio quality play-along tracks
  • Downloadable written materials, tablature and sheet music
  • Supported languages: English

LawDepot

(Available October 22) LawDepot’s extensive library of documents and legal resources provides easy-to-use assistance with a wide range of legal needs empowering patrons to create legal documents specific to their personal situation.

LawDepot tutorial available from HCPL Niche Academy

  • Hundreds of customizable legal documents
  • Easy customization through on-site prompts
  • BBB A+ rating

Learn It Live

(Available October 19) Learn It Live is a place to find and attend live online classes on 200+ topics in health, wellness, and personal development. At LiL, you can join a live yoga, pilates, or meditation class and interact with an expert on the other side of the globe. Can’t make it live? Watch one of the 1,000+ recorded classes at any time.

  • Daily live classes
  • 1,000+ Recorded Classes
  • 200+ Topics Covering Health, Wellness, Spirituality, Career and Personal Development, and More!

Method Test Prep Learning

(Available October 19) ACT® and SAT® test prep solutions from Method Learning are proven to raise scores! Tutoring, classes, and practice tests.

  • 150 points higher on the SAT, 3 points higher on the ACT
  • Learn every trick, strategy, and technique needed to raise ACT and SAT scores
  • Course includes full-length, timed practice exams
  • Video and audio lessons and explanations. Students learn best when they can see/hear the instruction
  • Supported languages: English

Universal Class

(Available October 19) Universal Class is the place to continue your education online and fulfill all your lifelong learning goals.

Universal Class tutorial available from HCPL Niche Academy

  • 500+ online courses on just about anything ranging from cake decorating to accounting & bookkeeping
  • Accredited CEUs for professional development
  • Self-paced, easy-to-use, 24/7 access – learn anything, anytime and anywhere
  • Supports assessments for the serious student or a view only version for the casual learner
  • Supported languages: English

Bring the Internet home from HCPL

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Mobile hotspots are now available to check out from your local HCPL branch!

The library offers twenty Alcatel Link Zone 2 hotspots that are connected to the Sprint/T-Mobile network and twenty Kajeet SmartSpots. Of the Kajeet SmartSpots, ten are connected to the Verizon network and ten are connected to the AT&T network. Kajeet SmartSpots are best suited for students, as they are filtered for content and are unavailable to use from 1:00 a.m. to 6:00 a.m.

Click below to place a hold on a hotspot from the Enterprise catalog:
Kajeet SmartSpots (AT&T or Verizon)

Alcatel Link Zone 2 (Sprint/T-Mobile)

You may also call your local HCPL branch to request that staff place a hold for you.

Hotspot Policy

  1. Borrowers of the Harrison County Public Library Hotspots must hold a current residential or paid Harrison County Library card, be 18 years of age or older and have an account in good standing. Any fees present on an account must be paid and any overdue materials must be returned before a Hotspot can be checked out. Hotspots are available 1 per household only!
  2. When checking out a Hotspot, the patron must sign a form assuming complete responsibility for any damage to and/or loss of the equipment or software configurations. Cost for replacement of Hotspot is between $95 and $129.88 (depending on device) with any damages being capped at replacement cost.
  3. Patrons must return the Hotspot by the time specified. Hotspots overdue for more than 14 days will be declared lost and full replacement costs will be charged to the patron’s account.
  4. Hotspots may be checked out for a two-week period. Hotspots cannot be renewed.
  5. Hotspots must be physically returned to a library employee. Hotspots may NOT be returned to the Book or Media Drops; any damage caused by returning the Hotspot via Book or Media Drop will be charged to the borrowing patron. Failure to return the Hotspot to a library employee will result in a six-month suspension in Hotspot privileges.
  6. Hotspots must be able to be turned on to check for functionality before being removed from the patron account.
  7. If a Hotspot becomes overdue, it will be deactivated until it is returned.

The Alcatel Link Zone 2 hotspots were largely funded by an Indiana Library Services and Technology (LSTA) Grant. The Kajeet SmartSpots were funded largely by the Marilyn M. Rhodes Community Foundation Endowment Fund.

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