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Jacci's Library Office Away from the Office

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From Jacci Howard Bear

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Jacci's Library Office Away from the Office

From my seat at a library table.

Where I Work

When I'm not working at home I work at the public library. There is one primary location but it is closed on Thursdays so I then go to my secondary library location. The secondary location is also larger (more books) so if I want to do some research using published materials I go there.

How I Created This Space

Our public libraries have free wi-fi and lots of places to sit and plug in. Depending on how crowded it might be (there are a lot of regulars that do the same thing I do) and what I'm working on my specific location in the library varies. There are tables with outlets in the middle of the table where I do most of my laptop work. They also have a few somewhat more private tables. Additionally there are armchairs all around for sitting and reading that also have outlets nearby for plugging in a laptop if desired. If I'm mostly surfing or reading and not typing I'll often use those seats.

Tips and Tricks

  • Even if you have another office, check out your public library for a change of scenery or to use in case of a loss of internet (if they have wi-fi). Even if you don't have a laptop, they may have computer stations you can use.
  • If your town has multiple branches, check out several of them. Space and resources vary and one location may provide a better working atmosphere than another.

My Equipment (Computer, Printers, etc.)

When at the library I use an Acer Aspire One netbook with wireless mouse, my iPad, and my iPhone (and headphones I can use with all three). If there's anything I want to print I save it to a flash drive and take it back home.

My Favorite Thing About This Space

Since I work at home, alone, working at the library gives me a change of scenery and lets me be around other people even if we don't interact heavily. Also, I can get inspired just walking through the stacks and looking at book covers.

My Least Favorite Thing About This Space

Unlike my secondary location, my primary one doesn't have a break room with snacks. (Although I guess that's good for my health and pocketbook).

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