Pictou-Antigonish Public Libraries Offer Value to the Community

EDUCATION--Pictou-Antigonish Public Libraries Offer Value to the Community

The following is a feature on the services offered by the Pictou- Antigonish public libraries in recognition of Public Library Week, Oct. 21-27.

The Pictou-Antigonish public libraries just aren't what they used to be. In fact, they're a whole lot more.

While some people think that libraries are just places to borrow books, that simply isn't the case.

"The library is your one-stop for reading, information and technology training too," said Linda Arsenault, community services librarian for the Pictou-Antigonish Regional Library. "Pictou-Antigonish libraries provide free training on the Internet, e-mail, popular software programs, scanning, use of digital cameras and more. Plus, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, you can visit our library Web site to access our virtual library and a wide range of library resources and services."

The Pictou-Antigonish public libraries are a wonderful example of the important service public libraries offer communities, but they are not alone: libraries 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 hometowns.

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 types of 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.

Ms. Arsenault recalled the example of a mother and son who both use their local public library as a learning centre. The mother, having improved her reading skills at the library while growing up, now encourages her child to use the library as well. The encouragement has paid off, with a teacher recently commenting that the child's reading levels and performance have been enhanced by his participation in a summer reading program.

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.