Beginning the first week of September, Bonnie Johnson in our Receiving/Facilities team will begin vacuuming private office spaces in Ellis Library not currently covered under the University’s custodial contract.

As most of you know, private office spaces are no longer vacuumed as part of the University’s custodial contract. Even though vacuums were purchased almost two years ago and are readily available in all staff areas, it’s become clear that vacuuming of private offices by individuals has proven to be challenging in Ellis Library. Because we need to keep our floors to stay in good shape for many years, the carpets need to be vacuumed regularly to slow the aging process and to provide a clean environment for our staff.

Bonnie will vacuum private office spaces once per month. I have tried to personally speak with everyone affected. If I missed talking to you and you would prefer to vacuum your own space, please let me know. If your office area is on the list for vacuuming, you will receive a recurring calendar appointment in Outlook very soon to let you know when to clear your office floors. This does not affect anyone in the Specialized Libraries, Archives, or the remote storage facilities at this time. If there are issues with vacuuming in those areas, please let your LMT member know.

Please note:

• Have floors cleared by the end of the work day prior to vacuuming.
• Vacuuming will be done between 7:00-7:30am.
• Bonnie has been asked to vacuum open floor spaces that can be reached easily. She has been asked to avoid moving anything, including chairs.
• You are still responsible for removing trash and recycling.
• If you lock your door, please continue to lock your door. Bonnie will key herself in and lock the door behind her (or ask Security for assistance).
• If your office space cannot be vacuumed on the appointed day, the appointment will simply be missed. There are many other facilities tasks that need attention. If possible, Bonnie will let you know about conflicts in advance and I hope you will consider vacuuming on those rare occasions.

Thanks in advance!

Kathy Peters