Halifax Regional Library Offers Value to the Community

The following is a feature on the services offered by the Halifax Regional Library in recognition of Public Library Week, Oct. 21- 27.

The Halifax Regional Library just isn't what it used to be. In fact, it's a whole lot more.

Just ask Leslie Jones, who learned how to use the Internet and e- mail from courses at the Spring Garden and Keshen Goodman branches of the library.

"I was technical roadkill when I went in," said Ms. Jones. "I had never been on the Internet before." Now, she says, she is completely comfortable going online and uses her newfound skills to research information from all over the globe.

"It's such a great deal," she said. "I have already recommended it to others. People who have stopped going to the library should really go back and take advantage of it."

The Spring Garden and Keshen Goodman libraries are wonderful examples of the service public libraries have to offer communities, but they are not alone: libraries across the region, and across the province, are doing the same.

New technologies adopted by public libraries provide exciting new learning opportunities that otherwise would not be available to many individuals.

Public Internet access, computer classes and training, educational programming, virtual libraries and online full-text magazine collections available to the public, have transformed public libraries. Now, they connect communities and give people the opportunity to reach all points of the globe without leaving the comfort of their home towns.

And just as it is now possible for a child to learn how to use a computer, it is still possible for that child to develop a love of reading by picking up a picture book. Students now have the option of researching projects online or by sifting through encyclopedia collections and other printed reference materials. An adult who has never been online before can learn Internet navigation skills, then take home a book by their favourite author.

A visit to the public library offers many fun, rewarding and educational experiences. Many people use the library to stay in touch with friends and others in their community or to participate in book clubs and computer courses. As well, children can take part in summer reading programs and other activities.

Although libraries have broadened their services to include access to technology and community-oriented programs they haven't forgotten their roots. Public libraries are founded on the premise that learning is a lifelong endeavour. They support the individual's quest for knowledge, training and education and foster inclusiveness, supporting those without access to the Internet and other technology for training, employment, leisure or communication.

Stories of people benefiting from lifelong learning at their regional library are as numerous as they are heartwarming. At libraries around the province, new Canadians learn English as a second language, seniors learn how to e-mail their grandchildren and people without computer experience take courses that help them find employment.

Never before have the opportunities for communication and education been expanding as quickly as they are today. Local libraries are key to these learning adventures and today, the possibilities are boundless.