Going High-Tech in My Library

As you may know, there are several buildings on my Bedford property, and when I first bought the place, one of my dreams was to utilize an entire structure as a library, housing my collection of more than 7,000 volumes. I thought a great deal when designing this building, and it was very exciting to watch as skilled craftsmen lined the walls with gorgeous bookcases. When the painting was complete, cartons and cartons of books were moved into the building. You might wonder how one would organize and keep track of such a collection. Enter computer technology and a very practical yet inexpensive computer program called Book Collector, with which anyone can become a librarian.

My MacBook Air helps to make the task easy, as it is nice and light!

 

When using this program, you simply type in the International Standard Book Number (ISBN), or the title and author. An optional wired or wireless Bluetooth scanner is available for recent books printed with barcodes. Book Collector automatically connects to sites such as amazon.com, barnesandnoble.com, and the Library of Congress, where all possible data on that particular book is retrieved.

In addition to the correct title and author, up pops the year it was published, the particular edition, a summary and description of the book’s contents, and even photos of the book's cover. This information is then stored in the database for easy retrieval, and the volumes can then be placed into proper categories on the shelves. A book can then be located in your library by searching the database by author or title. Another wonderful feature of this program is that the can be loaded onto a Personal Digital Assistant (PDA) or an iPod. This is especially helpful if you travel a lot, as I do, and are always searching for new books to buy.  With your database at your fingertips, you'll never again purchase the same edition twice.

Comments

[Carol Long]

Your library sounds like a heavenly place where I could spend many hours. Do you have a suggestion on organizing/cataloging a large collection of music CD's?

[John]

Would love to see more pictures of your library.

[Australian Greg]

Hi Martha, What a great idea for never buying the same book twice! I also have an extensive book collection and often wondered about how I would organise it! You ahve agin taken the hard work out of this task. THANK YOU! Greg

[Hardboiledegg]

as a school volunteer I would shelve books at the Media Center I felt more comfortable there and I could see the different grade levels of children and have my ear to the ground as to what to expect in the upper levels. as the years went by I APPLIED FOR A MEDIA AIDE job WITH THE SCHOOL BOARD i WAS EVENTUALLY HIRED bUT RESIGNED PENDING THE BIRTH OF MY SECOND CHILD yes books are a wonderful thing didn't Cicero say a room without books is like a body without a soul yes i think he did

[Michaele]

Another gadget that I MUST have. Thank you for the information...my library is also something I am proud of and hope to pass along to my children and this will certainly help keep it organized.

[Desiree']

Martha,
I was thrilled when you posted on this particular subject. My sister and I were at an antique store today and I puchased so many books (among other things!) to add to my already huge collection.I was just in the process of buying more book cases to accomodate all of them. I am trying to purchase all of your books to go in my library for refrence! Thanks again for sharing, I will definantely use your tips for organizing my books. Great blog!

[Michele Andrade]

I actually just started using librarything.com. It does the same thing as Book Collector. I don't use a PDA so I'm not worried about that. I just have so many books all over the house (in bookshelves of course) and out in my garage that I really needed to have some place to sort them out and make sure I didn't purchase the same books over again.

I really love that bookcase.

[Claudine]

What a great idea! I need this for the tons of cookbooks I have. I could even put in notes of my favorite recipes and what I have made. I am off to buy it right now!
Claudine

[Jessica]

Hello Martha,
Your library looks lovely...I wish that I could have one just the same! Your book program sounds just like a web site called Librarything.com which has this service. You can also compare your collection with others. So much fun!
As a librarian myself, it makes me happy to see you appreciating books so very much.
Jessica, Sydney, Australia.

[Diana @ PleaseSir]

Nice organization - what are some of your favorite books?

[Paula]

Martha, do you catalog and inventory your antique objects (other than books)?

[Sarah P.]

My husband will love that program!! Thanks for sharing:)

[Adam]

There's a similar program called Delicious Reader that uses the iSight to scan the book's barcode, it's really useful as well. http://www.delicious-monster.com/

[Karen Preston]

Wow! I love it! I wish I had room for that many books.

[DJ Dembi]

Martha,
I'd love to know where to get a stand like that one for my laptop.

Thanks for sharing your ideas and life.

[Kathy]

Martha,
Thanks for the glimpse into your library and for the information about Book Collector. Your bookcases are certainly gorgeous. I have at least that many books, but not enough space right now to display all of them. Your MacBook Air must make the process flow even more smoothly.
Thanks again from one book lover to another!
Kathy

[Kathy]

To Carol Long:
If you go to the Book Collector site, you will find information about CDs also.
Thanks, Martha, for pointing all of us in this direction!
Kathy

[Linda & Jack]

We were so sad to learn about your beloved dog, Paw Paw. Your final pictures of him were so touching.

[jaime]

Dear Martha
I am sorry about Paw Paw. I cried when I looked at his final pictures. I can only imagine how must feel. I was devastated when I lost my Siamese Cat Beijing after 17 years. Devastated. I m so sorry. Hugs & Purrs ^..^

[jaime]

Dear Martha
I am sorry about Paw Paw. I cried when I looked at his final pictures. I can only imagine how you must feel. I was devastated when I lost my Siamese Cat Beijing after 17 years. And shortly after that my Russian Blue Katy died. She was 16 years old. And then July 4th the doctor did eveything she could but she could not save Henry my husbands Abyssinian cat. We are still devastated. I' m so sorry. My animals are my family as I am sure your Paw Paw & animals are yours. Hugs & Purrs ^..^

[Jan Erickson]

Hi Martha, With all that has been going on, I somehow missed this blog. Your library building must be beautiful if the photo you included is any indication. The bookcase and floor are simply beautiful. I would love to see more photos of this fabulous building. Thanks so much for sharing. Jan

[Suzanne Campbell]

I had to say goodbye to my 18 year old Golden Retriever last summer. I received this email...maybe everyone has already read it, but it is worth reading again:

-A Dog's Purpose
(from a 6-year-old)

Being a veterinarian, I had been called to examine a
ten-year-old Irish Wolfhound named Belker. The dog's owners, Ron, his
wife Lisa, and their little boy Shane, were all very attached to Belker
and they were hoping for a miracle.

I examined Belker and found he was dying. I told the family we
couldn't do anything for Belker and offered to perform the euthanasia
procedure for the old dog in their home.

As we made arrangements, Ron and Lisa told me they thought it
would be good for six-year-old Shane to observe the procedure. They
felt as though Shane might learn something from the experience

The next day, I felt the familiar catch in my throat as Belker's
family surrounded him.. Shane seemed so calm, petting the old dog for
the last time, that I wondered if he understood what was going on.
Within a few minutes, Belker slipped peacefully away.

The little boy seemed to accept Belker's transition without any
difficulty or confusion. We sat together for a while after Belker's
death, wondering aloud about the sad fact that animal lives are shorter
than human lives. Shane, who had been listening quietly, piped
up, 'I know why.'

Startled, we all turned to him. What came out of his mouth next
stunned me. I'd never heard a more comforting explanation.

He said, 'People are born so that they can learn how to live a
good life -- like loving everybody all the time and being nice, right?'
The six-year-old continued,

'Well, dogs already know how to do that, so they don't have to
stay as long.'

* Live simply.
* Love generously.
* Care deeply.
* Speak kindly.

Remember, if a dog was the teacher you would learn things like:

* When loved ones come home, always run to greet them.
* Never pass u p the opportunity to go for a joyride.
* Allow the experience of fresh air and the wind in your
face to be pure ecstasy.
* Take naps.
* Stretch before rising.
* Run, romp, and play daily.
* Thrive on attention and let people touch you.
* Avoid biting when a simple growl will do.
* On warm days, stop to lie on your back on the grass.
* On hot days, drink lots of water and lie under a shady
tree.
* When you're happy, dance around and wag your entire
body.
* Delight in the simple joy of a long walk.
* Eat with gusto and enthusiasm. Stop when you have had
enough.
* Be loyal. Never pretend to be something you're not.
* If what you want lies buried, dig until you find it.

When someone is having a bad day, be silent, sit close by and
nuzzle them gently.

[Reba Butterworth]

Dear Martha
As i sit here my heart is really broken. I,m so very sorry to hear about paw paw. My blessings and warm prayers are with you.

Sincerly,
Reba Butterworth

[grace]

Dear Martha,

I'm sending a really big hug to you. You have such a tender heart for all your animals and it's hard to say goodbye for now. Paw Paw is free, happy, probably bouncing around the rainbows and surrounded by love. Lookout you cats in heaven!

Be good to yourself.

[Marion]

I just read your blog aboout the passing of Paw Paw. It brought tears to my eyes.You put together a beautiful eulogy for him. Thank you for sharing.

[alisonmaude]

Martha,
I just adore the color of the walls and trim in this room. I would love to paint our nursery this color. It's such a vibrant happy shade. Could you please tell me the names of the color and brand of paint used. I'd appreciate it so much!

[Lori]

I am so sorry to hear about Paw Paw. Your posting was beautiful. I loved the photos, especially of the beautiful morning sky. Thanks for allowing us to share this with you.

[Brandi]

Dear Martha,
I am truly sorry to hear about the passing of Paw Paw. As with many others, your eulogy for Paw Paw has brought me to tears. I send a huge hug with my respects. You are a role model for pet owners and I can imagine how much love Paw Paw received...you can see it in the beautiful pictures. Paw Paw is at peace now, walking in green ground coverings as far as his eyes can see!
Thank you for sharing~

[Joseph Brennan]

Martha:

The picture of your library and bookcase is beautiful. Please show us more photos of the Library.

Although I already left a comment on the "Paw Paw" blog, I just wanted to say again how truly sorry I am for you and the rest of his family.

I was very touched by all the personal photos you shared with us. The picures of you with Paw Paw are particularly honest and very poignant.

Thank you for sharing Paw Paw with us all.

God Bless

Joseph

[donnalee]

Dear Martha,

I am so sorry. I have just lost my 89 year old Mother and 2 cats in less than a month. I feel very sad and so empty.

I love the picture with your face buried in Paw Paw's fur.

I know that you will miss him forever...

[suemare]

I would love to see you very soon with a new chow chow puppy by your side.
You've always been known for having chows. It would seem unusual to see you without one.
Have a peaceful healing.

[Debra Maciejewski]

I was so sadden to hear of your beautiful and regal Paw Paw's passing.May the love you have for him stay forever in your heart and alway put a smile on your face.
I started to cry when I saw the photos as Paw Paw has he has grown up in front of so may people, we are all saddened at his passing.
Bless you for sharing,may there be peace in the days ahead for you and your beloved Paw Paw.

[Jim]

Very clever method. Thanks for the link about Book Collector!

[cheryl m.]

Dear Martha,
It breaks my heart to see you saying goodbye to your best friend. I have learned so much from you in all aspects of life, most important of all, we have to just keep moving forward.

[Andrew Ritchie]

Martha,

You really must write a book about your homes: their design, their function, their histories. It should be big and hardcover with lush photographs and an accompanying DVD or CD Rom featuring 'virtual tours' of some of the rooms and grounds.

What do you say?

-Andrew

[Debbie Chick]

Dogs love Us unconditionally,
Soften our Lives with sweetness and affection,
Such treasures can never be forgotten.
So sorry for your loss.

[bobbi hewitt]

dear martha, my beloved dog left us this past december and i received a poem which comforts me and would like to share with all those who have found a great friend in animals
the rainbow bridge
there's a beartiful story that tells of a bridge connecting heaven and earth. it's called the rainbow bridge because of its many vivid colors. just this side of the bridge is a hand of lush grass and flowers, and hills and meadows. when a beloved pet dies, it goes to this place of beauty and peace. there's always food and water and warm spring weather. the old and frail are young again, and those who are maimed are made whole. they play all day with each other in happiness and health.
ibkt ibe tgubg us nussubg,,, tget're not with that special person who loved them on earth. so, they run and play until the day comes when one stops and looks up. the nose twitches! the ears are up! the eyes are staring! one runs suddenly from the group! you have been seen, and when you and your special friend meet, you take them in your arms and embrace once again.
your face is dissed again and again and again! you now can look once more into the eyes of your trusted pet. then you cross the rainbow bridge, never to be separated again.
in memory of yingling

[Robin]

Martha, I was so saddened to hear about Paw Paw's passing and my thoughts and comfort go out to you. It has been a very tough year for you I am sure as it relates to loss, losing your wonderful Mom and then your beloved Paw Paw. But, it might be comforting to think that somehow they are together and stil surrounding you with love. I have two senior cats and I give them so many hugs and kisses they are sick of me, but I want them to know I love them everyday and I am sure Paw Paw felt that from you as well.

[joan vogt]

Martha
I am sitting here crying over a dog I never met. Your Paw Paw was so special and I always looked forward to seeing him on your show. The pictures on the blog are a wonderful memory. Having gone through this process several times in my life we feel for you.

[Susy]

That's awesome.. thanks for sharing.

[Laurie]

Dear Martha,
I am so very sorry for your loss. I know Paw Paw was not only your precious pet, but a faithful friend as well. All of us who are animal lovers and have walked this journey, share in your grief.

Laurie Foster

My Forever Pet
There's something missing in my home, I feel it day and night.
I know it will take time and strength, before things feel quite right.
But just for now, I need to mourn,
my heart-- it needs to mend, though some may say it's "just a pet" I know I've lost a friend.
You've brought such laughter to my home, and richness to my days...
A constant friend through joy or loss,with gentle loving ways.
Companion, pal and confidante, a friend I won't forget.
You'll live forever in my heart, my sweet forever pet...

[alice glenn]

Godspeed Paw Paw. We had 3 chows (two mixes). They all lived to over 16. The last was Mister, who lived to 18. I've always loved your Paw Paw and thanks for sharing the photos.

[Mary Jane Jordan]

I am sorry to hear about the loss of Paw Paw. I received this in my email today and thought it hit the spot for "US" dog lovers! My thoughts are with you! ENJOY!

JUST A DOG

From time to time, people tell me, "lighten up, it's just a dog,"
or, "that's a lot of money for just a dog."

They don't understand the distance traveled, the time spent, or the costs involved for "just a dog."

Some of my proudest moments have come about with "just a dog."

Many hours have passed and my only company was "just a dog,"
but I did not once feel slighted.

Some of my saddest moments have been brought about by "just a dog,"
and in those days of darkness, the gentle touch of "just a dog" gave me comfort and reason to overcome the day.

If you, too, think it's "just a dog," then you will probably understand
phrases like "just a friend," "just a sunrise," or "just a promise."

"Just a dog" brings into my life the very essence of friendship, trust,
and pure unbridled joy.

"Just a dog" brings out the compassion and patience that make me a better person.

Because of "just a dog", I will rise early, take long walks and look longingly to the future.

So for me and folks like me, it's not "just a dog" but an embodiment of all the hopes and dreams of the future,
the fond memories of the past, and the pure joy of the moment.

"Just a dog" brings out what's good in me and diverts my thoughts away
from myself and the worries of the day.

I hope that someday they can understand that it's not "just a dog",
but the thing that gives me humanity and keeps me from being
"just a man or woman."

So the next time you hear the phrase "just a dog"
just smile...
because they "just don't understand."

by Richard Biby

Tulsa, Oklahoma
Contributing Editor VHD

From "The Versatile Hunting Dog"
NAVHDA's Magazine
February 2006

[Shane]

I am deeply saddened by the news of Paw Paw,(as I sit here crying as if I knew him personally), but I know he lived a full and happy life with you. As someone already mentioned, you are a great role model for pet owners everywhere. I know you will miss him. Just keep all the good memories near you. He knows he was loved. My thoughts are with you.

[Jan Garber]

As in all loss, remember the LOVE, always the LOVE!!

[Michelle]

Hi Martha, we are very saddened to hear of the passing of your Paw Paw. My Mother-in-Law also passed on last week & was a great lover of dogs. Our dog gave her much comfort in her final days. Animals are so much a part of our families & give endless unconditional love to us. We will miss seeing your beloved Paw Paw with you & thank you for sharing him with all of us.

[Birute]

Martha! What a terrific idea! I use a similar program from the same company called Movie Collector and Music Collector. It is great to know they have one on Books! Very useful tools that help you keep track of collection (even when you loan the item out to friends and family). Thank you for blogging about this and sharing pictures of your library! I Love It!

[Jane Vanecek]

Dear Ms. Stewart,
I was very sad and sorry to hear about the passing of your beautiful Chow Chow. My prayer is that Paw Paw is in heaven with my beautiful Ming Ming.

May God's love comfort you.
Jane Vanecek

[Patti]

Martha,
I'm so sorry for the loss of Paw Paw, I have been a fan for years. I lost my beloved chow chow Sasha (Sasha Rose Troubles) on August 5th from Cancer. She would have been 14 on June 2nd and I had her since she was a baby also. Much love and I hope Sasha and Paw Paw find each other at the Rainbow Bridge.

[Kathie Tonnessen]

Dear Martha,

Paw Paw (I would like to think) is running and playing at the Rainbow Bridge with my three cats that passed away (all within 8 months of one another). Michael from cancer, age 5, Storm from heart disease, age 13, and Lightning from cancer, approx. 13 years old. These past 8 months have been overwhelming and we can deeply understand your grief. These babies lived with us, amongst many others, that we rescued from the street and were our inspiration to start our group called Communities Altering The Strays (CATS).

No matter how they come to us, nor how many we have, we love our pets with all of our hearts and we lose a little bit of ourselves with every pet that we lose.

Though our time together with our pets is too short, we will see them again. I have to believe that.

[madi barrena]

hi Martha
I love all your work. Its so beautiful and stylish.
I am a knitting designer,and I live with my husband in California.I will love to have your opinion about my work. there its my web, and I love to share with you.
http://madisknitting.homestead.com/thank you Martha!
sincerely
Madi Barrena

[Rich Jachetti]

Dear Ms. Stewart:

My condolences on the death of Paw Paw. I've seen pictures of him in the office of the groomer we both use in Westchester. I have an English Cocker Spaniel named Daphne, who I love to death.

I could just imagine how painful this must be for you.

I don't know much about the Chow breed, but overall 13 is a good long life for a dog. I'm sure he brought a lot of joy to your life in that time.

Again, condolences,

Rich Jachetti

[Teresa Touey]

I am so sad about Paw-Paw. I loved that dog or at least the part of him that I know from the magazine and television. When I read your blog today about his passing I wanted to say thanks for those great pictures. I really like the information that you provide to us on our animals in our lives.

[Mufffie]

Ms. Stewart
I am soo sorry to hear of your loss.
These animals hold such a special place in our hearts and when they leave us they take a piece of our heart with them.
God Speed Paw Paw

hugs,
Mufffie

[Linda]

I am so sorry to hear about Paw Paw, he was a beautiful animal. My female Chow Chow, Sasha, passed away last October from Heart Failure so I understand your pain and loss. She would have been 13 on December 13. My thoughts are with you.

[Ronald Carrier]

I lost my little dog last summer. sorry to hear about paw paw. I write childrens stories, maybe you could write a story about paw paw for children.

[Barbara J. Miller]

Now I Must Go
Send me to the Bridge I pray,
When I no longer run and play.
When my limbs can't bear my weight,
And dignity is stripped by fate.

Look into my eyes, you'll find,
I will let you know, it's time.
You must help me from this edge.
Now it's time, I make this pledge.

I leave you for the Bridge today.
Anew, I run, I bark, I play.
We shared a life of many things
And to your heart my leaving brings,

The pain of loss, I feel it too,
But Master, know, this I must do.
I must leave first, to make the way,
For you to follow me someday.

Beyond the sunset, where all pain ends.
We'll meet again, the best of friends.
Just as I snuggled in your heart,
Your in mine too, we aren't apart.

I watch you from afar and pray,
It's time to heal, heal some each day.
Please dry those tears and smile for me.
And know at last that I am free.

There is no pain or suffering here,
The sun shines brightly everywhere.
There isn't even one cross look,
It's not allowed here in His book.

No clouds of gray will gather here,
No storms will ever threaten.
We are at peace here,
And the Bridge is Heaven!

By: Barbara J Miller

[dom]

My wife and I are so sorry to hear about Paw Paw's passing away. We were just talking about him the other day, how beautiful he was as we were playing with our chow whom we rescued a few years ago. In fact, one of us would never fail to mention you and Paw Paw on our family gatherings as if he were with us.He looks like Bear's,our chow's twin brother that's why.Paw will forever be in our hearts.

[dom]

My wife and I are so sorry to hear about Paw Paw's passing away. We were just talking about him the other day, how beautiful he was as we were playing with our chow whom we rescued a few years ago. In fact, one of us would never fail to mention you and Paw Paw on our family gatherings as if he were with us.He looks like Bear's,our chow's twin brother that's why.Paw will forever be in our hearts.

[Neal Blevins]

Hi Martha:

I would love to visit your library someday! Thanks for the tip on "BookCollector". I visited their website, and found they have similiar software to catalog movies and music as well. Now I can finally get my complete library organized!

A fan of yours for life,
Neal

[Gloria Lemieux, Dorchester N.B.(Maritimes)]

I was sad to hear of PawPaw"s demise...I am an animal lover so I feel your sadness of your loss of your dear pet! Hope Francesca & Sharkie can cope with the loss as well. Sincerely,Gloria

[Peggy]

I was sorry to hear of PawPaws passing. Our family lost our pembroke welsh corgi this past summer and it was so hard. We had Jake for almost 15 years he was a member of our family. Madison our female corgi was lost for a long time without him.A trip to the humane society solved our problem and gave our new dog Bart a chance at a new life.Our thoughts are with your family.

[phil]

i'm sorry for your loss, its never easy losing a dear friend.theres a nice dog waiting for you to find it,,, i am so lucky to have my 2 airedales after my previous 2 very old dogs died. best wishes, you are a remarkable lady

[Just Me]

I extend my condolences on the loss of Paw Paw. He obviously lived well and was equally loved. May that comfort you, Ms Stewart.

[Robert Rucker]

Martha, My deepest sympathy, I also recantly lost my best friend after 16 years " Alpine" a bueatiful happy american eskie.... What a great dog!

Just remember only true friends leave footprints on your heart..

[jovonne]

What wonderful photos of Paw Paw, and thank you for showing us a part of his burial services.

I know you must find much comfort knowing he was never alone in those last hours.

I always think of Paul McCartney's "Let it Be" and know that he was guided on his path by a loving hand.

Animals truly do make life complete.

[Stefani A.]

Dear Martha,

Its is so nice to be able to sign on to your website and read your blog/see great pictures of your personal life and family (including your amazing pets). Thank you for bringing us (your loving fans) closer to you by providing this blog. I truly enjoyed your Atlantis pictures and shed some tears at Paw Paws burial photos. Thank you again for letting us see the your personal side, as we all love who you are!

[Debbie L.]

I was so sorry to hear about Paw Paw. He was such a beautiful dog! I also had a Chow Chow named Amber for 16 years and she was the sweetest dog ever. I always thought of her when I would see Paw Paw. Thank you for sharing him with all of us.
Debbie

[Debbie L.]

I was so sorry to hear about Paw Paw. He was such a beautiful dog! I also had a Chow Chow named Amber for 16 years and she was the sweetest dog ever. I always thought of her when I would see Paw Paw. Thank you for sharing him with all of us.
Debbie

[Lori Lemanski]

As a recent (Dec 2007) graduate (Masters in Library and Information Science), I was facinated by this blog! Oh, if I only could have even just one room at home devoted to my books! And I thought that I had a large collection-over 7,000!! Since I am in charge of the stacks in my library, I can honestly say that I am curious as to how you decided to organize your titles. Do you do it by subject, then author (as I do at home), or did you do it by actual LC number?

[Carolyn James]

On your TV show Monday, May 5th during the Kindle segment, you talked about a favorite book of yours that you would like to see turned into a movie. I missed the title and would like to read the book. Would you please share the name again? Thank you so much! Carolyn James