Internet for libraries

There is currently a plan in the works to provide subsidized internet coverage to public and school libraries.  However, the actual libraries seem to be getting overlooked in the benefits.

The linked article addresses some of the concerns about the lack of coverage in libraries across the US, such as lack of resources for children in lower-income families who need to visit the libraries for school or continued learning projects, and for older patrons for whom it may not be feasible to invest in a computer and internet service.

The comments, though they are few, are also interesting. Obviously, young people who have grown up with technology are loath to use anything they consider outdated, but they should nevertheless be taught to use and appreciate other methods of accomplishing their tasks.

Are libraries in control?

Libraries apparently don't have as much control as one would expect. But that could change.

It seems libraries were able to ban patrons for bad behavior (viewing pornography, shouting g obscenities, etc.), but could do nothing to actually enforce it. A new law in Pennsylvania will give libraries the authority to enforce written warnings and keep out those it has banned for the extent of the ban.

Naturally, it has opponents and supporters. Opponents say it gives libraries too much power, but the linked article mentions that most other entities--colleges, public schools, and more--have this same level of authority.

Libraries as theatres?

Libraries are increasingly offering more and more services to their patrons. Libraries now offer unique household items for check out such as baking pans, fishing equipment, and even art. They are also expanding the classes, book clubs, and more to include classes not only for computer programs, but also for sewing, knitting, and much more. Some libraries are now even holding theatre performances.

This is a wonderful idea--it would greatly expand the audience for drama, which is always a positive outcome!

Mobile and pop up libraries

Following the trend of the previous post, mobile libraries are also growing in popularity!

Similar to Little Free Libraries, pop up libraries also offer a small selection of books. However, they are usually bigger than Little Free Libraries and they are not always stationary.

Beachfront libraries are a wonderful example of mobile libraries. These are fantastic because most people often vacation outside of their normal library system, so visitors would most likely be unable to check out books. Others probably would rather just not leave the beach or would like something to occupy themselves for a day on the sand. These, too, can vary by size.

There are other types of mobile libraries, too. Most library systems had a bookmobile program of some sort at some point. Quite a few have disappeared, surely due to budget reasons. However, there are individuals and organizations that have since decided to provide similar services to the public. 

Once again, size may vary! 

There are also smaller, stationary pop up libraries that may or may not be disassembled later. These can also be part of art projects, other competitions, or features.

Little Free Libraries

Little Free Libraries have been steadily growing in popularity. They are small boxes individuals can order and assemble or build themselves which house are placed in neighborhood locations, most often front yards. The instructions are simply "take a book, leave a book."

Size, design, decoration, and creativity definitely vary--as does the ever-changing rotation of books. Little Free Libraries at a school bus stop might be populated with children's books and summer reading selections, while a city Little Free Library might boast park reads.

Little Free Libraries have recently made the news, as one young boy was forced to remove his due to a city ordinance. Despite some outrageous varying opinions, it looks like his library will be returning!

 

Other than being super cute, Little Free Libraries also foster reading, sharing, and a sense of community. Some people are installing pods or groves of Libraries with reading areas. Others feature boards with community notices and activities. Some even leave extra spaces to exchange items such as seeds and plants! 

Social media in/and libraries

Social media networks and sites can be incredibly useful for libraries and librarians in many ways. There are many different options from which to choose, all with different advantages and purposes. One Illinois library has "earned national recognition" for its willingness to adapt to new technologies and effectively and creatively make use of them.

For many libraries, all of these options can be quite puzzling. But they can be prove to be a fantastic toolbox for libraries and librarians alike.

Twitter, for instance, is fantastic for sharing links and images with short captions, in addition to to other short updates. Facebook is good for longer updates and sharing events. Blogs are always a wonderful option to provide updates to the community on the various goings-on of the library. YouTube, of course, would be a wonderful idea to give video tours of the libraries, post tutorials, and share profiles of the staff. Tumblr is quite trendy at the moment and has a heavy librarian population who often post activities, experiences, and more. GoodReads is probably obvious, but it's a wonderful option to promote new titles, staff picks, and local authors!

Technology in summer reading programs

This story is about summer reading programs in Buffalo, NY.

The program and the library has gradually become more digital. I think including technology and social media is important to capturing the interest of kids and teens. The article mentions that kids participating in the program post reviews, which others read, which leads to more kids reading more books. One of the program participants mentioned she had the library's ebook app on her iPod in addition to a Nook that she used for her program reading. The "grand prize" winner can even win a Kindle Fire! If that doesn't get kids reading, I don't know what will!

Most interesting is the library's use of social media. The director of the library mentions that the library system makes use of "Facebook and Twitter, as well as Pinterest, and Flickr." Social media is a great way to get younger people involved with the library and reading and there are many different ways to make use of these various social networks.