The coffee can and the idea of checking out as many books as possible are great ideas.

The problem with any method you choose is that it has to be consistent. You can't discipline the dog before going out, let her bark all day and then discipline when you get home. It will work when the dog knows you are there (if you are lucky) but she will see you leaving as a sign that it's OK to bark again now.
I would suggest never leaving the dog in a situation where it is going to be a problem - train her to eliminate quickly while you are with her and keep her in the house when you are not around. This takes huge time and effort at first as you must ensure the dog is physically and mentally exhausted at first. You then have to make sure that every day has a dog exhaustion part to it - it's hard work, it's fun and the dog, and you, will love it!! The only thing the dog then wants to do is to go and lie on her bed, until dinner time, and then stay there until night time walkies and bed for the night.
If you don't have the space and time to walk the dog then train her to fetch, jump, weave etc.
Do not leave her where she can bark unchecked and give her body and brain excersise so she is happy to go to sleep when you are not around. Good luck.