By Tanner Nickalls
It’s been almost six years since Deborah Duce first arrived at Huntsville Public Library (HPL) and even now, as Chief Librarian, she recalls the changes that were taking place in young people visiting the local library. While books weren’t irrelevant, and are still far from it, the interests of local children and teenagers alike were beginning to change. Technology was being explored for library applications more frequently, and was being used for a variety of recreational and professional purposes. Nowadays, the library and its technology are permanently intertwined.
“It’s not just books anymore, and one of the biggest changes is that students are open to online databases,” says Duce. In fact, some of the biggest ‘sellers’ at the library are in-library computer rentals, mobile Wi-Fi hotspots, and 3-D printing pens. The library even offers tech classes for patrons to learn more about the finer details of computer programs, including how to effectively explore the numerous online features that the library database has to offer.
Many of the community events hosted by the library are also starting to be directed towards the exploration of technology, such as the recent Youth Tech Extravaganza. Gizmos and gadgets like green screens and robots were present for the varying ages of youth to enjoy and learn from.
Library staff have also integrated ‘maker hours,’ which are a type of free time where kids can create whatever they can imagine using the resources available at the library.
“It has taken a bit of effort,” Duce stated, “but it is definitely worth it. Instead of thinking inside or outside the box, we want to challenge kids to forget about the ‘box’ entirely, and focus on unhindered creativity. It’s all about kids having fun and seeing what they can do, all at their local library.”
The library staff hopes that more people, kids and adults, will continue to get involved with the ongoing community activities that the library hosts.
How easy is it to get involved with the library and all it has to offer? Just go to the front desk and apply for a library card, gaining access to interesting tech, classes, an online database, and, of course, books.
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Mary Spring says
How lucky we are to have the Huntsville Public Library as well as the space at the Annex. Speaking of technology… there will be a Landscape Design Workshop held at the Annex on the PD Day, November 24th from 9-3:30 pm. There is no charge for this Workshop and all participants will complete a project that day. Sewing machines, fabric and supplies will be provided. No sewing experience is required. Participants will need to bring a lunch. Register at the library